Why did commercial forestry increase tension between forest dwellers and the state?

Correct answer: The state increased control over local uses

Direct answer: Option A is correct. Commercial forestry brought forests under stronger state regulation. Officials marked areas, controlled entry, limited cutting and grazing, and sometimes stopped customary collection of fuel, fodder, fruits, or wood. Forest dwellers depended on these activities for food, cattle, income, and daily life. When such rights were reduced, their livelihood and sense of authority over the forest were affected. This produced conflict and tension between communities and the state. Option A accurately connects increased state control with the restriction of local uses. Option B is wrong because forest dwellers did not receive all forests. Option C is wrong because forest laws were imposed and expanded rather than abolished. Option D is wrong because timber demand remained important for railways and industries. Remember the chain: commercial demand → state control → restricted customary rights → livelihood problems and tension.