Indian Economics On The Eve Of Independence

Prepare a list of items that were exported from and imported into India during the British rule.

There is a perception still going around that in many ways the British administration in India was quite beneficial. This perception needs an informed debate. How would you look at this perception? Argue this out in your class—'Was the British Raj good for India'?

What was the focus of the economic policies pursued by the colonial government in India? What were the impacts of these policies?

Name some notable economists who estimated India's per capita income during the colonial period.

What were the main causes of India's agricultural stagnation during the colonial period?

Name some modern industries which were in operation in our country at the time of independence.

What was the two-fold motive behind the systematic de-industrialisation effected by the British in pre-independent India?

The traditional handicrafts industries were ruined under the British rule. Do you agree with this view? Give reasons in support of your answer.

What objectives did the British intend to achieve through their policies of infrastructure development in India?

Critically appraise some of the shortfalls of the industrial policy pursued by the British colonial administration.

What do you understand by the drain of Indian wealth during the colonial period?

Which is regarded as the defining year to mark the demographic transition from its first to the second decisive stage?

Give a quantitative appraisal of India's demographic profile during the colonial period.

Underscore some of India's most crucial economic challenges at the time of independence.

When was India's first official census operation undertaken?

Indicate the volume and direction of trade at the time of independence.

Were there any positive contributions made by the British in India? Discuss.