The
process of colonization and migration in the sub-Himalayan
region of Tarai and Bhabhar in Nainital district has
led to the highest growth rate here amongst all the
districts of Uttar Pradesh. This region, which forms
an integral part of the Central Himalaya, has become
one of the most prosperous agricultural belts of India
today. Diverse groups of people have settled here.
But this has been done at the expense of large scale
destruction of forests, which has further aggravated
the ecological degradation of the already fragile
enviornment of the Central Himalayan region, the source
of the great Ganga system.
This study is a pioneer endeavour on the history and
growth of Tarai-Bhabhar, the Gujjar and Khatta settlements
and the associated problems of dairying, their man
source of livelihood. It is primarily based upon extensive
field study which at times was also at personal risk.
Archival material, Revenue Department records and
records of the Forest Department have been used to
supplement it. The work at the moment assumes topical
importance due to the fact that the terrorists have
made thick forests their hideouts where Khatta and
Gujjar settlements are also located. The presence
of the timber mafia while causing havoc with the forest
wealth, that of the terrorists has caused a social
turmoil. Even though it may be a passing phase, the
damage it is causing to the social fabric lends an
urgency to it.
>^
Top
