Question

Taungya system of raising plantations was first time introduced in India by

• A. J Westoby
• B. D Brandis
• C. D Conolly
• D. Chatumenon

Hint:

Brandis is the "Go-to" name for many "firsts" in Indian scientific forestry. Taungya is the historical father of modern Agroforestry.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The Taungya system is a form of agroforestry where agricultural crops are grown temporarily between rows of forest trees during the early years of plantation establishment. The question asks who introduced this practice to India.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

• Origin: The term "Taungya" is a Burmese word (Taung = hill, ya = cultivation). It was developed in Myanmar (Burma) in the 1850s to regenerate teak forests efficiently.

• Introduction to India: Sir Dietrich Brandis, the first Inspector General of Forests in India, recognized the success of this system in Burma. He officially introduced the system to India around 1890 to reduce the costs of establishing forest plantations and to provide a livelihood for shifting cultivators.

• First Site: In India, it was first applied in the North Bengal region (specifically in the Kalimpong and Darjeeling areas) for the regeneration of Sal and other species.

• Mechanism: Farmers are allowed to clear land and grow crops for 2-3 years, provided they also plant and protect forest tree seedlings. Once the tree canopy closes and crops can no longer grow, the farmers move to a new patch.

• Other Names: It is known as "Kumri" in South India and "Jhum" (in its primitive form) in the North East.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The Taungya system was introduced to India by Sir Dietrich Brandis.