PathSet Publications
Indian Economy before Colonial Rule
- Before the advent of colonial rule, India was a self-sufficient and flourishing economy. Evidently, our country was popularly known as the golden eagle. India had already established itself on the world map with a decent amount of exports. Although primarily it was an agrarian economy, many manufacturing activities were budding in pre-colonial India.
- Indian craftsmanship was widely popular around the world and garnered huge demands. The economy was well known for its handicraft industries in the fields of cotton and silk textiles, metal and precious stone works, etc. Such developments lured the British to paralyze our state and use it for their home country’s benefits.
Agriculture
- During the pre-British era, a major part of India’s population was dependent on agriculture. The farming technologies and irrigation facilities were not satisfactory. However, agriculture in villages was self-sustaining and independent.
- The village communities either purchased or consumed the raw materials and articles directly. Consequently, starvations and famines were rare if not frequent. Of course, agricultural practices remained primitive, but the villages functioned independently and were self-sufficient. All of this went for a toss when the Britishers set feet on the Indian subcontinent.
Industrial Sector
- Before the rise of the British Empire in India, it was known for its handicraft industry. Evidently, this industry enjoyed worldwide demand and was held in high regard. Indian craftsmanship was applauded in all parts of the world. The textile industry was among the most important urban handicraft industry. Articles made up of wool, cotton and silk were famous both inside and outside the country’s boundaries.
- Additionally, various metal industries, stone carving, marble work, shipbuilding, tanning, and leather industries were taking shape. These industries potentially accelerated India’s growth, establishing it on the world map. However, the British Raj took every step to ensure that this was not the case.
Foreign Sector
- Pre-colonial India enjoyed a worldwide market for its manufactured products. The excellent levels of craftsmanship were held in high regard and enjoyed a global reputation. Notable ones are handicrafts and textile industries. Shawls and carpets from Kashmir and Amritsar, silk sarees of Banaras and silk cloth of Nagpur are some examples.
- Pre-British India also excelled in the artistic handicraft industry which includes jewelry made of gold and silver, brass, copper and bell metal wares, marble work, carving works in ivory, wood, stone, artistic glassware etc. All of the above-mentioned items including cinnamon, pepper, opium, indigo etc. constituted a major proportion of exports from India. Effectively, India was exporting high-quality manufactured goods to European countries and owned a respectable share in the world economy.
