Question

Consider the following statements in the context of Colonial rule in India :

1. Basic infrastructure such as railways, ports, water transport, posts, and telegraphs were developed to provide basic amenities to the people.

2. Introduction of railways fostered the commercialization of agriculture and boosted the self-sufficiency of villages.

Which of the statements given above is/are not correct?

1. Only 1
2. Only 2
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 3 : Both 1 and 2

Both 1 and 2 are Incorrect.

• During colonial rule, basic infrastructure such as railways, ports, water transport, posts, and telegraphs did develop.
• However, the real motive behind this development was not to provide basic amenities to the people but to fulfil various colonial interests. Therefore statement 1 is incorrect.
• It fostered the commercialization of Indian agriculture which adversely affected the self-sufficiency of the village economies in India. Hence, statement 2 is also incorrect.

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• The British introduced the railways in India in 1850 and it is considered as one of their most important contributions to India.
• The railways affected the structure of the Indian economy in two manners.
• It enabled people to undertake long-distance travel and break geographical and cultural barriers.