Occupational structure refers to the distribution of the workforce by the type of work or occupation that people engage in. It is an important aspect of any economy as it reflects the nature of economic activities and the level of development in a society.

Salient features of India's Pre-independence occupational structure:

1. Agriculture was the primary occupation of the majority of the population, with about 70% of the workforce engaged in it.
2. The manufacturing sector was small and consisted mainly of handicrafts and cottage industries.
3. Trade and commerce were limited, with most economic transactions taking place within local communities.
4. The service sector was also minimal, with only a small number of people engaged in services such as healthcare, education, and administration.

How it got changed during British Raj:

1. British colonial policies led to the commercialization of agriculture, which resulted in the displacement of small farmers and the concentration of land ownership in the hands of a few.
2. The colonial government also encouraged the growth of the manufacturing sector, particularly in textiles, which led to the decline of traditional handicrafts and cottage industries.
3. The growth of trade and commerce was facilitated by the establishment of railways and other infrastructure, which enabled the movement of goods and people across the country.
4. The service sector also expanded, with the growth of education, healthcare, and other administrative services.

In conclusion, the occupational structure of India underwent significant changes during the British Raj, with the growth of agriculture and manufacturing, and the emergence of trade and commerce and the service sector. These changes set the stage for the economic development that followed independence.

Occupational Structure

“I do not hesitate to say that half our agricultural population never know from year’s end to year’s end what it is to have their hunger fully satisfied.” This is the exact statement given by Sir C.A. Elliot, a lieutenant governor of then Bengal presidency, to the British government. This is the most compelling evidence of unemployment and poverty in British hit India. Such words from the mouth of a colonial official itself make us realize the adversities of British rule. Let us take a look at the occupational structure before independence.