What is scientific forestry? Why was it introduced by the British?

Under scientific forestry, the different types of trees were cut down in the natural forests. The method of planting one type of tree in straight rows came to be known as Plantation. For the forest management, officials surveyed the forests to estimate the area under different types of trees and created a proper working plan. They also planned how much of the plantation area to be cut every year. Then on the same land, trees replanted so that it becomes ready to cut after some years. All this comes under the Scientific forestry.

It was introduced because –

• Britishers felt that local people in India were recklessly cutting the trees which would destroy the forests completely.

• Britishers needed forests land to build ships and railways.

• To restrict the area of grazing so that forests lands could be preserved for Timber production.