The economic policies of the British in India from the mid-eighteenth century till independence were characterized by exploitation, extraction, and systematic subjugation of the Indian economy for the benefit of Britain.

Firstly, the British established monopolies over key industries such as textiles and handicrafts, undermining local industries and forcing India into a supplier of raw materials and a market for British manufactured goods.

Secondly, the imposition of heavy taxes, land revenue policies like the Permanent Settlement (in Bengal) and the Ryotwari System (in Madras and Bombay Presidencies), and the exploitation of agricultural resources led to widespread impoverishment and famines.

Thirdly, the British introduced discriminatory tariff policies that favored British goods over Indian products, stifling industrial development in India.

Fourthly, the drain of wealth through mechanisms like tribute payments, high salaries for British officials, and repatriation of profits back to Britain severely crippled India’s economic potential.

Lastly, infrastructure development under British rule primarily served colonial interests, such as the construction of railways and ports to facilitate resource extraction rather than holistic economic development.

Overall, British economic policies in India were exploitative and aimed at perpetuating colonial dominance, resulting in long-term economic stagnation and underdevelopment in many sectors.