The Industrial Revolution in England, spanning from the mid-18th to the mid-19th century, played a significant role in the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India.
Technological Advancements
• The mechanization of production in England led to mass-produced goods at significantly lower costs.
• These goods, particularly textiles, were exported to India, creating fierce competition for local artisans.
• Indian handicrafts, unable to match the price and volume of machine-made products, began to lose market share.
Colonial Policies
• British colonial rule facilitated the influx of British goods into India.
• Policies were implemented that disadvantaged Indian industries:
– High tariffs on Indian goods exported to Britain
– Low tariffs on British goods imported to India
– Encouragement of raw material exports from India to feed British industries
Market Disruption
• Traditional patronage systems that supported Indian artisans were disrupted.
• Local markets were flooded with cheaper British goods, reducing demand for Indian handicrafts.
• The East India Company’s monopoly further stifled local production and trade.
Specific Industries Affected
• Textiles were hit hardest, with cities like Dacca and Murshidabad seeing severe declines in production.
• Other affected industries included metalwork, pottery, and leather goods.
Long-term Consequences
• De-industrialization of India, shifting from a producer to a raw material supplier.
• Loss of specialized skills and traditional knowledge.
• Widespread unemployment among artisans, leading to social and economic upheaval.
The effects Industrial Revolution in England fundamentally altered India’s economic landscape, leading to long-lasting changes in the country’s industrial and social structure.
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