Comprehension

On clearance and settled cultivation
Passing through one village in the lower Rajmahal hills, Buchanan wrote: The view of the country is exceedingly fine, the cultivation, especially the narrow valleys of rice winding in all directions, the cleared lands with scattered trees, and the rocky hills are in perfection; all that is wanted is some appearance of progress in the area and a vastly extended and improved cultivation, of which the country is highly susceptible. Plantations of Asan and Palas, for Tessar (Tassar silk worms) and Lac, should occupy the place of woods to as great an extent as the demand will admit; the remainder might be all cleared, and the greater part cultivated, while what is not fit for the purpose, might rear Plamira (palmyra) and Mowa (mahua).

Question: 1

How did Buchanan describe the view of the lower Rajmahal hills?

Updated On: Jan 13, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

Buchanan characterized the panorama of the lower Rajmahal hills as exceptionally beautiful and scenic. His observations included:

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  • Rice cultivation in narrow valleys extending in every direction.
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  • Cleared areas interspersed with individual trees.
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  • Rocky elevations that created an ideal natural vista.
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Notwithstanding its visual charm, Buchanan remarked on the absence of development and recognized the area's considerable agricultural capacity.

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Question: 2

Why did Buchanan believe that the area had high potential for improved cultivation?

Updated On: Jan 13, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

Buchanan identified the area's potential for enhanced cultivation due to the following factors:

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  • The landscape offered fertile valleys, existing cleared areas, and terrain amenable to farming.
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  • The region was noted for its considerable potential for agricultural improvement.
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  • Buchanan observed that significant portions of the land were uncultivated, presenting opportunities for expansion and better economic utilization.
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Question: 3

How did Buchanan propose utilising the land for economic benefits?

Updated On: Jan 13, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

Buchanan outlined several economic strategies for land exploitation:

  • Expanding agriculture: Increase cultivated areas for rice and other primary food crops.
  • Commercial tree cultivation: Dedicate land to the commercial growth of Asan and Palas trees, vital for Tassar silk production and lac cultivation.
  • Utilizing marginal land: Employ less fertile areas for cultivating valuable trees such as Palmyra and Mahua, recognized for their use in food and traditional beverages.

These proposals demonstrate a colonial approach focused on maximizing land output and generating income from indigenous natural resources.

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