What is the strongest basis for calling deforestation a process with unequal impact on local society?

Correct answer: Colonial interests benefited, while forest-dependent people's livelihoods and access to resources were affected

Deforestation and colonial forest policies mainly benefited the government and commercial interests by providing timber, railway sleepers, and land for plantations. In contrast, forest-dependent communities faced restrictions on access to fuel, fodder, forest produce, and livelihoods. Hence, the impact was unequal across social groups. Option B is incorrect because benefits were not shared equally. Exam tip: When explaining unequal impact, name both the group that benefited and the group that suffered.