1. What was the role of railways in pre-independence India's economy?
- Answer: Railways played a significant role in transportation and trade, facilitating the movement of goods and people across the country. They contributed to economic integration but were primarily built for colonial interests.
2. What were the major challenges faced by Indian industries before independence?
- Answer: Indian industries faced challenges such as limited access to capital, outdated technology, and stiff competition from British industries. British policies also favored British businesses.
3. How did the Great Depression of the 1930s affect the Indian economy?
- Answer: The Great Depression had a severe impact on India's economy. Exports declined, unemployment rose, and agrarian distress deepened, exacerbating economic hardships.
4. What was the significance of the currency system in pre-independence India?
- Answer: India had a dual currency system with the Indian Rupee and British Pound. This system reflected India's subordination to British colonial rule and had economic implications.
5. What were the main features of the agricultural sector before independence?
- Answer: The agricultural sector was the backbone of the economy, employing the majority of the population. It was characterized by low productivity, land tenure issues, and a lack of modern technology.
6. How did the Jute and Cotton textile industries impact the pre-independence Indian economy?
- Answer: Jute and Cotton textile industries were among the major industries, but they faced challenges due to competition from British textiles and outdated machinery.
7. What was the significance of the Zamindari system in pre-independence India's agrarian economy?
- Answer: The Zamindari system was a feudal land revenue system where intermediaries collected land revenue from peasants. It led to the exploitation of farmers and hindered agrarian growth.
8. How did World War II impact the Indian economy before independence?
- Answer: World War II had mixed effects. While it led to increased industrialization due to wartime demands, it also worsened inflation and economic hardships for the common people.
9. What were the efforts made by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru to address economic issues before independence?
- Answer: Leaders like Gandhi advocated for self-reliance and cottage industries, while Nehru emphasized industrialization through the Five-Year Plans after independence.
10. How did the Partition of India in 1947 affect the economic landscape?
- Answer: The Partition led to the division of assets and resources, disrupting economic activities in the affected regions and resulting in significant economic challenges.
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