Industrialisation and urbanisation in India did not happen quite the w...
The industrialisation and urbanisation did not happen in India quite the way it did in Britain.
More importantly, this is not because we began industrialisation late, but because our early industrialisation and urbanisation in the modern period were governed by colonial interests.
Industrialisation and urbanisation in India did not happen quite the w...
Colonial Influence on Industrialisation and Urbanisation in India
India's industrialisation and urbanisation processes were significantly influenced by colonial interests, which sets it apart from Britain's experience. Here's why:
Late Start
India began industrialisation relatively late compared to Britain, as the colonial rulers focused more on extracting raw materials and controlling markets rather than promoting industrial development in the region.
Colonial Interests
Colonial powers in India aimed to exploit the country's resources for their own benefit, rather than fostering sustainable industrial growth for the local population. Industries were often set up to serve the interests of the British Empire, leading to the neglect of indigenous industries and urban centres.
Profit Maximisation
Industrialisation in India under colonial rule was primarily driven by profit maximisation for the British, rather than the holistic development of the country. This focus on economic gains for the colonisers limited the scope for balanced industrial and urban growth in India.
Exploitative Practices
Indian industrialists, under colonial rule, often resorted to unfair means to hire and retain labourers, exploiting the local workforce for their own gains. This exploitative approach towards labour management further hindered the equitable development of industries and urban areas in India.
In conclusion, the industrialisation and urbanisation processes in India diverged from the trajectory seen in Britain due to the dominant influence of colonial interests, profit motives, and exploitative practices that shaped the development of industries and urban centres in the country.