Question

Consider the following statements regarding labour movements in colonial India and select the correct combination:

1. The early labour movements were primarily focused on economic demands, such as higher wages and improved working conditions, and did not initially engage with anti-colonial politics.
2. The growth of industrial towns like Bombay and Calcutta in the late 19th century gave rise to a more organized working class, which began forming trade unions to challenge colonial policies.
3. British industrial policies actively encouraged the formation of trade unions in India, as they believed this would prevent large-scale rebellions.
4. Despite facing repression, labour movements gradually became linked with the broader nationalist struggle, particularly during the 1920s and 1930s.

• A. All
• B. None of these
• C. 2, 4
• D. 1, 2, 4

Answer 1

Answer:

D. 1, 2, 4

• The early labour movements were primarily focused on economic demands, such as higher wages and improved working conditions, and did not initially engage with anti-colonial politics.

• The growth of industrial towns like Bombay and Calcutta in the late 19th century gave rise to a more organized working class, which began forming trade unions to challenge colonial policies.

• Despite facing repression, labour movements gradually became linked with the broader nationalist struggle particularly during the 1920s and 1930s.