Author 1:

Ningthoujam Teresarani Devi
Research Scholar
Department of History
Manipur University
Imphal, Manipur,India
Email: nteresaranidevi@gmail.com

Author 2:

Dr. Meesala Ramakrishna
Assistant Professor
Department of History
Manipur University
Imphal, Manipur,India
Email: mramakrishnahcu@gmail.com

Abstract: The relationship between man and the environment is one of the most discussed topics. Indeed, the significance of the forests of Manipur and Burma is a known fact. Forests in both regions were managed by the local communities in their own traditional ways. However, the British began to criticize these traditional ways. Accordingly, the British introduced the “scientific management of forests” in 1856 under Brandis. Hence, in the present scenario where a constant focus has been placed on the environment and the encroachment of people on forest land, it seems pertinent to discuss the relationship between people and forests during the pre-colonial period. Given this context, the paper attempts a thorough investigation of the said topic by using both primary and secondary sources. The paper also provides a brief overview of the management of forests by the British. By doing so, this paper will contribute to the growth of environmental history.

Key Words:British, Burma , Colonial Empire, Forest, Manipur, Scientific Management etc.