Introduction The late 19th century marked a significant phase in the transformation of India’s trading economy under colonial rule. Amidst these changes, Indian merchants played a pivotal role in facilitating, adapting to, and sometimes resisting the economic shifts introduced by the British. From local bazaars to international markets, Indian merchants were instrumental in keeping trade […]
Introduction Colonial interventions in India profoundly altered the lives and livelihoods of tribal communities. Traditionally self-sufficient and living in harmony with nature, tribal societies had their own systems of economy, social organization, and cultural practices. However, with the advent of British colonial rule, these indigenous systems were disrupted through land revenue policies, forest laws, commercialization
Analyze the impact of colonial interventions on tribal economy. Read More »
Introduction The rise of European private trade in India during the 17th and 18th centuries marked a shift from state-controlled commercial enterprises to more individualized, profit-driven ventures. This transformation played a crucial role in changing the dynamics of India’s maritime trade and laid the groundwork for deeper colonial intervention. Background Initially, European trade with India
Rise of European Private Trade Read More »
Introduction The commercialisation of agriculture and economic life in colonial India was a significant transformation that reshaped traditional structures. Driven largely by British colonial policies, this shift had deep impacts on rural society, agrarian relations, and economic stability. What is Commercialisation? Commercialisation refers to the process by which agricultural produce and other goods were increasingly
Impact of Indian Commercialisation Read More »
Introduction Morris D. Morris, an American economic historian, presented a controversial argument that challenged the nationalist view of India’s industrial decline during British colonial rule. According to Morris, there was “not much direct evidence of the decline of India’s traditional industries.” This statement sparked extensive debate among historians and economists. In this post, we critically
Introduction The role and employability of women in colonial India was shaped by a complex interplay of traditional norms, colonial economic policies, and emerging socio-political movements. While some opportunities for employment emerged in sectors like textiles, domestic work, and teaching, the overall status of women’s employment remained marginal and highly gendered. This post critically examines
Critically examine women’s employability in colonial India. Read More »
Introduction After gaining independence in 1947, India adopted a planned economic development strategy aimed at achieving self-reliance, reducing poverty, and promoting balanced growth. The government launched a series of Five Year Plans, inspired by the Soviet model, to guide resource allocation and economic priorities. The first three Five Year Plans (1951–66) were foundational in shaping
Analyze the nature of Indian economic growth in the first three five year plans. Read More »
Introduction Bank nationalization in India was a landmark event in the economic history of the country. Initiated in two phases—first in 1969 and later in 1980—it aimed to bring the banking sector under state control to serve broader social and economic goals. Prior to nationalization, the banking system was dominated by private entities that catered
Introduction The early census operations in India, initiated under British colonial rule, were significant for administrative and political purposes. The first synchronous census was conducted in 1881, although several regional attempts were made prior to that. The early census was not just a demographic exercise but also a tool for colonial governance and control. Pre-1881
Introduction The economic reforms introduced in India during the 1990s marked a turning point in the country’s development trajectory. Triggered by a severe balance of payments crisis, these reforms aimed at liberalizing the economy, reducing state control, and integrating with the global market. Often referred to as the LPG reforms—Liberalization, Privatization, and Globalization—they fundamentally altered
Economic Reforms in the 1990s Read More »
Disabled !
