Why was the plantation system considered a problem for local society?

Correct answer: It reduced local access to forest resources

Correct answer: D. Local communities often depended on forests for several everyday needs, including fuel, fodder, food products, small timber and materials for household use. A plantation usually gave priority to one commercial crop and was managed under rules designed for production and profit. When mixed forests were converted into plantations, local people could lose customary access to grazing areas, firewood, fruits, leaves and other resources. Option D is correct because it describes the direct effect on local livelihoods and rights of use. A is wrong because plantation control generally restricted, rather than increased, local rights. B is wrong because plantations changed the forest environment. C is wrong because commercial plantations did not give more forest access to local people. Memory cue: commercial plantation priority often meant restricted community access.