In 1765, the Sundarbans Mangrove Forest was more than double its present size. It previously extended to the area adjacent to Kolkata. Most of this degradation can be attributed to the clearing, draining, and reclamation that occurred during the British colonial era. However, the Government of India has expressed a serious devotion to conservation efforts in the Sundarbans since the 1970s. While their efforts have been supported by international organizations and have been instrumental in wildlife protection, it has also alienated the inhabitants of the Sundarbans and has created a socially unjust situation.
