In the late 19th century, many tribal groups, particularly the Mundas in Chottanagpur, transitioned from their traditional nomadic and shifting cultivation lifestyles to settled agriculture. This involved cultivating land in a fixed location year after year, utilizing tools like the plough, and gaining rights over the land they occupied. Such changes were often viewed positively by British officials, who considered settled farmers more civilized compared to hunter-gatherers. However, this transformation also altered traditional governance structures, diminishing the authority of tribal chiefs while increasing their dependence on colonial laws and land revenue systems. The introduction of forest laws by the British further complicated tribal life, as these laws restricted access to forests, which were crucial for their livelihoods. Many tribal communities resisted these impositions, ultimately leading to a blend of adaptation and rebellion against colonial control. Thus, this period marked a significant shift in tribal societies, from mobile lifestyles to more structured forms of agriculture and governance, heavily influenced by colonial policies.