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.

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