Question

Which of the following statements are true regarding “famines in colonial India”?

1. The frequency of famines increased during British rule due to emphasis on cash crop cultivation
2. British famine policies effectively reduced mortality during famines.
3. The Bengal l-amine of 1943 was partly caused by British wartime policies
4. Indian agricultural practices remained largely unaffected by British policy changes during famines

• A. i, iii
• B. All
• C. iii only
• D. i only

Answer 1

Answer:

A. i, iii

• Famines increased during British rule due to policies that prioritized cash crop cultivation, which decreased food availability.

• The Bengal Famine of 1943 was exacerbated by British wartime policies, including forced grain exports and logistical failures.

• Statement 2 is incorrect as British famine policies were often criticized for being ineffective and resulting in high mortality.

• Statement 4 is incorrect since British policies led to major changes in agricultural practices, particularly a shift to cash crops.