Which of the following industries was most affected by the ‘deindustrialisation’ of India in the 19th century?
[amp_mcq option1=”Silk manufacture” option2=”Cotton textiles” option3=”Iron and steel” option4=”Woolen manufacture” correct=”option2″]
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CDS-1 – 2024
During the 19th century, India experienced a process of deindustrialisation, particularly in its traditional handicraft industries. This was largely due to colonial policies that favoured British manufactured goods and raw material extraction from India. The cotton textile industry, which was historically one of India’s largest and most important sectors, was arguably the most severely affected. The influx of cheap, machine-made textiles from Britain devastated the indigenous handloom industry, leading to mass unemployment and impoverishment among weavers and artisans.