Question

Why did the export of Indian textile decline at the beginning off the nineteenth century? Explain any three reasons.

Answer 1

The export of Indian textiles declined at the beginning of the nineteenth century due to the following reasons:

1. Indian weavers were unable to compete with cheap, machine-made British textiles, and the export of raw cotton to Britain led to a rise in domestic prices.
2. Manchester-made goods began to flood the Indian markets, reducing the demand for Indian textiles.
3. Heavy import duties were imposed on Indian cotton textiles in England, making them expensive and less competitive.
4. Exports of British goods to India increased sharply, causing British textiles to dominate Indian markets.
5. Machine-made goods were cheaper than hand-woven cloth, so Indian weavers could not compete.
6. By 1850, the export of woven Indian cloth had declined drastically.