Critically examine the various facets of economic policies of the British in India from mid-eighteenth century till independence.
The role of women in the freedom struggle, particularly during the Gandhian phase, was pivotal and transformative. Women, who were traditionally confined to the domestic sphere, were galvanized into action by Mahatma Gandhi's call for mass participation in the struggle for independence. Key ContribuRead more
The role of women in the freedom struggle, particularly during the Gandhian phase, was pivotal and transformative. Women, who were traditionally confined to the domestic sphere, were galvanized into action by Mahatma Gandhi’s call for mass participation in the struggle for independence.
Key Contributions:
- Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922): Women boycotted foreign goods, picketed liquor shops, and promoted khadi, thereby challenging colonial economic policies.
- Salt March (1930): Women actively participated in the Salt March and the subsequent Civil Disobedience Movement. Notably, Sarojini Naidu led the raid on the Dharasana Salt Works, symbolizing women’s leadership in the struggle.
- Quit India Movement (1942): Women like Aruna Asaf Ali emerged as key figures, leading protests, and enduring imprisonment. Usha Mehta played a crucial role in broadcasting the “Congress Radio,” which disseminated information and motivated resistance.
- Role in Political Leadership: Women leaders such as Sarojini Naidu, Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit, and Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay took on significant roles within the Indian National Congress, influencing policy and strategy.
- Grassroots Mobilization: Women organized and mobilized communities, spreading Gandhi’s message of self-reliance and non-violence. They ran schools, taught spinning, and engaged in community service, reinforcing the socio-economic fabric of the resistance.
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 textileRead more
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.
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