How Did Colonialism Affect Indian Agriculture?

Colonialism had a profound and lasting impact on Indian agriculture, drastically altering the structure and productivity of the sector. Under British rule, agriculture became a tool for economic exploitation, designed primarily to benefit Britain rather than India. The British introduced policies that favored the export of raw materials, such as cotton, indigo, and jute, while reducing the focus on food crops essential for local consumption. This shift led to food scarcity and famines in many regions, as large areas of fertile land were used for cash crops instead of essential grains.

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The British also introduced the Zamindari system, which placed control of land in the hands of a few landlords, often leading to exploitative practices. Farmers were burdened with high rents, and many became indebted, further worsening their financial condition. The taxation system was another key factor—heavy taxes were levied on farmers, often leaving them with little to no profit after paying for land revenue. The lack of investment in irrigation, infrastructure, and modern farming techniques also contributed to low agricultural productivity.

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In the long run, British colonial policies not only hurt Indian farmers economically but also led to structural imbalances in agricultural practices. These changes impacted food security, rural livelihoods, and the overall agricultural output of India, effects that continued long after India gained independence in 1947.