Read the following facts regarding cotton textiles industry in British India: (i) Modern cotton textile industries were established in the late 19th century. (ii) They were established by the British entrepreneurs. (iii) They were located only in the western areas of the country. Which of the above facts is/are correct?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 2:

The correct option is Both (i) and (iii). This is because the development of the modern cotton textile industry in British India was characterized by these two historical facts. Statement (i) is correct: The first successful mechanized cotton textile mill was established in Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1854, marking the beginning of the modern industry. While initial progress was slow, rapid growth occurred in the latter half of the 19th century, particularly after 1870, confirming the establishment phase in the late 19th century. Statement (iii) is also largely correct in the initial phase: The industry was predominantly concentrated in the western regions, particularly Bombay and Ahmedabad, due to the availability of raw cotton from the black soil belt of Gujarat and Maharashtra, proximity to the sea for import of machinery and export of finished goods, and the presence of merchant communities with capital.

The incorrect option is 1:
Only (iii) is incorrect because while the concentration in the western area (iii) was true, it ignores the crucial historical timing mentioned in fact (i), which is also correct. The modern industry took root from the mid-19th century and expanded significantly in the late 19th century.

The incorrect option is 3:
Both (ii) and (iii) is incorrect because fact (ii) is false. The modern cotton textile industry was primarily pioneered by Indian entrepreneurs and capital, most famously by individuals like Cowasjee Nanabhoy Davar who set up the first successful mill. While British companies were present in other industries, Indian merchants dominated the early textile sector.

The incorrect option is 4:
All options are correct is incorrect because, as established, statement (ii) concerning establishment by British entrepreneurs is factually inaccurate. The British predominantly focused on export/import trade and railways, while the indigenous Indian capital drove the early factory-based cotton textile production.