Question

How did Buchanan describe the view of the lower Rajmahal hills?

Answer 1

Buchanan described the view of the lower Rajmahal hills as exceedingly fine and picturesque. He observed:

• Narrow valleys of rice cultivation winding in all directions.
• Cleared lands dotted with scattered trees.
• Rocky hills forming a natural and perfect landscape.

Despite the aesthetic appeal, Buchanan noted a lack of developmental progress and believed the region held significant agricultural potential.

Answer 2

Buchanan believed the area had high potential for improved cultivation because:

• The natural features—fertile valleys, cleared lands, and manageable terrain—indicated suitability for agriculture.
• The region was described as “highly susceptible to improved cultivation,” suggesting that its productivity could be increased with proper planning.
• He observed that only a part of the land was being cultivated, leaving room for agricultural expansion and economic use of underutilized areas.

Answer 3

Buchanan proposed a range of strategies to economically benefit from the land:

• Expansion of settled agriculture: Clear more land for rice and other staple crops.
• Plantation-based cultivation: Use land for the commercial planting of Asan and Palas trees, which are hosts for Tassar silk worms and lac production.
• Utilization of less fertile land: Areas not fit for crops could be used to grow economic trees like Palmyra (Plamira) and Mahua (Mowa), known for their utility in food and traditional liquor.

His suggestions reflect a colonial mindset that aimed to maximize land productivity and generate revenue from local natural resources.