Which group was symbolised by the 'Hoe' in the Rajmahal hills?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Paharias
The life of the Paharias was symbolised by the hoe, which they used for shifting cultivation, while the Santhal settlers came to represent the power of the plough.
NCERT (2026-27): “2.1 In the hills of Rajmahal … Santhals were pouring into the area, clearing forests, cutting down timber, ploughing land and growing rice and cotton. As the lower hills were taken over by Santhal settlers, the Paharias receded deeper into the Rajmahal hills. If Paharia life was symbolised by the hoe, which they used for shifting cultivation, the settlers came to represent the power of the plough. The battle between the hoe and the plough was a long one.” |