British Industrial Policy and Decline of Handicrafts in 19th & 20th Century

Abstract

The British rule was a long story of systematic exploitation by an imperialistic government. The policies of the British government were agriculture-oriented rather than industry-oriented. During their rule, much emphasis was laid on improving the quality of agricultural products and encouraging the exports of Indian raw materials which were essential for the progress of the industries in England like raw cotton, raw silk, oilseeds, hides, jute, dye-stuffs, etc. The principal drive of the colonial government behind this policy of systematically de-industrializing India was double folded. The intention was, firstly, to lessen India to the status of a mere exporter of industrial raw materials for the growing industries in Britain and, secondly, to turn India into a sprawling market for the manufactured industrial products of Britain. As such the colonial rule ensured the maximum advantage of their home country. The rapid development of railway and roads, development of steamer service and the opening of the Suez Canal enabled the English manufacturers to reach the interior parts of India. As a result, Indian industries faced severe competition. The disappearance of the courts of Nawabs and regional rajas that extended patronage to Indian artisan class was another important factor for the destruction of the handicraft industries of India.

Keywords: Capitalism, Colony, Commercialization of Agriculture, De-industrialization, Industrial Revolution, Railway, Raw-material.