Question

Suryamani says, “If the forests are not there, we too will not remain.” Why so?

Answer 1

Suryamani belonged to the community of forest dwellers (Adivasis) who lived in forests. Their livelihood was dependent on forests. They collected leaves and herbs to sell them as medicines in the markets, or make baskets out of bamboo and fallen leaves. They ate the wild fruits and flesh of the forest animals. So, if the forests were not there, the existence of the Adivasis would be endangered.