Why are the Arabari forests of Bengal known to be a good example of conserved forest?
Due to efforts of forest officer A.K. Banerjee, the Sal forests in Arabari forests of West Bengal were revived with the active participation of the local people in their conservation. In return the villagers were given employment in both silviculture and harvesting operations, 25 per cent of the final harvest, and allowed fuel wood and fodder collection on payment of a nominal fee. By 1983, due to the active and willing participation of the villagers, the previously worthless Sal forests in Arabari forest range of Midnapore district Underwent a remarkable recovery and were valued ₹ 12.5 crores.
