Economic and Political Conditions of India During First World War

Introduction:
The First World War, which lasted from 1914 to 1918, affected India in various ways. India was a British colony at that time, and therefore the war had a significant impact on the economic and political conditions of the country.

Economic Conditions:
1. Trade and Commerce: The war had a negative impact on India's trade and commerce. The British government diverted all resources to the war effort, leaving little for India's own development. The shortage of raw materials caused inflation, which led to a rise in prices of essential commodities.

2. Agriculture: The war affected agriculture in India as well. The British government imposed restrictions on the export of food grains, which led to a shortage of food in the country. This led to famine in various parts of India, which resulted in the death of millions of people.

3. Industry: The war had a positive impact on India's industry. The British government set up war industries in India, which provided employment opportunities to many people. This led to the growth of industries such as jute, cotton, and steel.

Political Conditions:
1. Recruitment of Soldiers: India was an important source of soldiers for the British army during the war. The British government recruited over one million soldiers from India to fight in the war. This led to a rise in nationalism in India, as many Indians felt that they were being used as mere cannon fodder.

2. Political Movements: The war also gave rise to political movements in India. The Indian National Congress demanded greater autonomy for India, and the Muslim League demanded a separate homeland for Muslims. These demands eventually led to the partition of India in 1947.

3. Repression: The British government repressed any form of dissent in India during the war. The Rowlatt Act was passed in 1919, which allowed the government to arrest and detain people without trial. This led to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, in which British troops opened fire on a peaceful gathering of Indians, killing hundreds of people.

Conclusion:
The First World War had a significant impact on the economic and political conditions of India. While it led to the growth of industries, it also led to famine and inflation. It also gave rise to political movements and demands for greater autonomy, which eventually led to the partition of India. The war also led to repression and the loss of many lives.

1. War created a new political and economic situation .it lead to an increase in expenditure.

2. The war led to price rise and hardship of common people.

3. War led to forced recruitment of people.

4. Acute shortage of food lead to famine and misery.

5. Indians began to realize that they were drawn in a war unnecessarily . This feeling united Indians against the British.