Question

Examine the economic conditions of the Paharias after the settlement of Santhals in the periphery of Raj Mahal Hills.

Answer 1

In 1780, the Santhals moved to Bengal, where Zamindars hired them to recover land and boost agricultural activity. The British government relocated them to the Jangal Mahal region, notably the slopes of Rajmahal. They were tasked with cultivating the land and establishing a steady peasant life. Despite resistance from the Paharias, the Santhals eventually prevailed, forcing the Paharias to flee further into the hills. The Paharias were restricted to the drier interior and more rocky upper slopes, while the Santhals settled in the Rajmahal slopes, displacing the Paharias from their foothill lands.