Explanation:
The collapse of the indigo production in Bengal led the planters to shift their operations to other regions. Bihar became one of the main destinations for the planters to continue their indigo production. Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Reason for the shift:
- The collapse of indigo production in Bengal was mainly due to the increasing resistance by the indigo farmers against the exploitative indigo planters.
- The farmers in Bengal refused to grow indigo and demanded higher prices for their produce.
- This led the planters to search for alternative regions to continue their indigo production.
2. Choice of Bihar:
- Bihar was chosen as an alternative region for indigo production due to its favorable climatic conditions and availability of suitable land.
- The region had fertile soil and a good amount of rainfall, which were ideal for indigo cultivation.
3. Impact on Bihar:
- The shift of indigo production to Bihar had significant consequences for the region.
- Large tracts of land in Bihar were converted into indigo plantations, leading to the displacement of local farmers and disruption of traditional agricultural practices.
- The planters employed coercive methods to force the farmers to grow indigo, leading to widespread protests and resistance.
4. Historical significance:
- The shift of indigo production from Bengal to Bihar marked a significant change in the dynamics of the indigo industry in India.
- It highlighted the exploitation and oppression faced by the indigo farmers and contributed to the growth of the indigo revolt and the broader peasant movements against the British colonial rule.
In conclusion, the collapse of indigo production in Bengal led the planters to shift their operations to Bihar. This shift had significant consequences for the region and played a crucial role in shaping the history of the indigo industry in India.

Indigo Production Collapse in Bengal
The indigo production in Bengal faced a significant decline due to various factors, leading planters to seek alternative locations for their operations.
Reasons for Collapse
- Market Saturation: The market became saturated with indigo, leading to a decrease in prices.
- Competition: Synthetic dyes emerged as a cheaper and more efficient alternative to natural indigo, reducing demand.
- Peasant Resistance: The exploitative practices of indigo planters faced resistance from local farmers, culminating in revolts like the Indigo Rebellion of 1859.
Shift to Bihar
- Favorable Conditions: After the collapse in Bengal, many planters shifted their operations to Bihar, where conditions for indigo cultivation were still favorable.
- Availability of Land: Bihar offered vast tracts of land suitable for indigo cultivation, which attracted planters looking to maintain their production levels.
- Labor Supply: The region had a labor force willing to work in the indigo fields, making it an attractive alternative for planters.
Impact on Bihar
- Economic Growth: The influx of planters contributed to the economic development of Bihar, though it also brought similar exploitative practices.
- Cultural Changes: The introduction of indigo cultivation changed local agricultural practices and influenced the socio-economic fabric of the region.
In summary, after the indigo production collapsed in Bengal due to various challenges, planters migrated to Bihar, where they found opportunities for continued indigo cultivation.