British Rule in Bengal and the Cultivators

During their rule, the British had a significant impact on the economy of Bengal. They introduced a variety of crops, which changed the agricultural landscape of the region. In this context, the question asks about the crop that the British persuaded or forced cultivators in Bengal to grow. The correct answer is option 'D', which is Wheat.

Introduction of Wheat Cultivation

The British started introducing wheat cultivation in Bengal in the early 19th century. The East India Company wanted to reduce the dependence on imported wheat from England, and hence, they encouraged the cultivation of wheat in India. Initially, wheat was grown in small quantities in some parts of Bengal, but its production increased steadily over time.

Forced Cultivation

The British used different methods to increase the production of wheat in Bengal. They provided incentives to the cultivators, such as tax exemptions and subsidies, to encourage them to grow wheat. However, they also used force in some cases. The British officials would confiscate the lands of the cultivators who refused to grow wheat and would give it to those who agreed to grow wheat.

Impact on Cultivators

The introduction of wheat cultivation had a mixed impact on the cultivators in Bengal. On the one hand, it provided a new source of income for them, as wheat was in high demand in the market. On the other hand, the cultivation of wheat required a lot of water and fertilizer, which increased the cost of cultivation. Moreover, the cultivators had to purchase new tools and equipment to grow wheat, which further added to their expenses.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the British introduced wheat cultivation in Bengal during their rule. They used both incentives and force to increase the production of wheat. The cultivation of wheat had a mixed impact on the cultivators, as it provided a new source of income but also increased their expenses.