Question

What was the ‘Damin-i-Koh’ in the context of the Santhal Rebellion?

Hint:

Damin-i-Koh was a forest region reserved by the British for Santhal settlement, but exploitation there led to the Santhal Rebellion (1855–56).

Answer 1

Concept: The Santhal Rebellion (1855–56) was a major tribal uprising against British colonial rule and exploitative zamindars and moneylenders. Understanding the term {Damin-i-Koh} is important in tracing the origins of this revolt.
Step 1: Meaning of Damin-i-Koh. The term {Damin-i-Koh} means “skirts of the hills.” It referred to a forested tract of land in present-day Jharkhand.
Step 2: Its role in the rebellion. The British created this region in the early 19th century and encouraged the Santhals to settle there to clear forests and cultivate land. However, over time, the Santhals faced exploitation by moneylenders, traders, and zamindars, leading to resentment.
Step 3: Connection with the Santhal Rebellion. The injustices faced by the Santhals in the Damin-i-Koh region became a major cause of the Santhal Rebellion of 1855–56, led by Sidhu and Kanhu Murmu.