Option c is correct because villagers saved forests as sacred groves. colonial doesn't wanted to anger them since they had a lot of work from them. If they will come to revolt then it would not be easy for colonials to work properly at that place.

Reference :- NCERT pg no. 95 - 4.5 New developments in Forestry.

Protected Forests as Sacred Groves

In various regions across India, including places like Mizoram and Kerala, forests have thrived due to the protection and preservation efforts of local communities. One significant reason for the flourishing of these forests is the establishment of sacred groves by villages.

1. Conservation through Tradition
- Villages in India have a long-standing tradition of considering certain forests as sacred groves, which are protected and preserved due to their religious or cultural significance.
- These forests are regarded as the abode of deities or spirits and are considered sacred by the local communities.
- The religious and cultural beliefs associated with these groves have helped in their preservation, as cutting trees or causing harm to the forest is seen as a taboo or sacrilegious act.

2. Religious Beliefs and Conservation
- The sacred groves are often considered as biodiversity hotspots as they are left undisturbed for generations.
- The belief that the deities or spirits reside in these forests instills a sense of reverence and respect, preventing any destructive human activities.
- The villagers, out of fear or respect for the supernatural, refrain from cutting down trees or exploiting the resources of these groves.
- This has led to the conservation of diverse flora and fauna within the sacred groves, promoting ecological balance and preserving endangered species.

3. Community Participation
- The protection and conservation of sacred groves are community-driven efforts.
- The villagers collectively take responsibility for safeguarding these forests and ensure that no harm is caused to them.
- They actively participate in the management and maintenance of the groves, making decisions regarding access, resource use, and conservation practices.
- By involving the local communities, a sense of ownership and stewardship is fostered, leading to the long-term preservation of the forests.

4. Positive Impact on Surrounding Areas
- The presence of these protected forests has a positive impact on the surrounding areas.
- The conservation efforts in the sacred groves often spill over into neighboring forests, as communities become more aware of the importance of preserving natural resources.
- This has led to a decrease in deforestation rates and an increase in the overall forest cover in these regions.

Conclusion
The establishment of sacred groves by villages across India has played a crucial role in the thriving of forests in various regions. The religious and cultural beliefs associated with these groves have fostered a sense of reverence and protection among the local communities, leading to the preservation of biodiversity and the sustainable management of natural resources. The success of this community-driven approach highlights the importance of cultural practices and traditions in promoting conservation efforts.