What effect did converting forests into fields have on local forest dwellers?

Correct answer: Access to resources like fuel fodder and food decreased

The direct answer is D: access to resources such as fuel, fodder and food decreased. Many forest-dwelling communities depended on forests for firewood, leaves, fruits, roots, hunting, grazing and other livelihood needs. When forests were converted into fields, roads or controlled plantations, the area available for these customary activities became smaller. Rules could also prevent people from entering or collecting products freely. Option A is wrong because forest clearing generally reduced, rather than increased, access to forest resources. Option B is wrong because traditional needs were not all fulfilled; many people lost important sources of food and income. Option C is irrelevant: converting forests into fields did not give local communities sea trade. Option D is correct because daily access to fuel, fodder, food and livelihood materials was restricted. The reasoning is: less forest and more restrictions → fewer freely available resources → greater hardship for forest dwellers. Remember: deforestation affects people, not only trees.