Question

what was the economic conditions of india at the time of first world war

Answer 1

First World war caused India to go nearly bankrupt and high casualties (half million people from India volunteered from India)
It led to the increase of huge rise in defense expenditure of British India, which in turn increased taxes from masses, with minimum left in hands for spending.
Less spending amount in turn affected handicrafts, artisans business and profitability where masses couldn’t afford much as their purchasing power had decreased gradually.
Great Depression 1929, mainly thought to caused due to war which also had its implications on Indian Economy.
British in order to increase exports, burdened artisans and handicraftsmen, where as over crowding Indian markets with cheap Manchester cloths and industrial made spindles.
Very high inflation
As agricultural sector crippled, sea trade was directly affected, in turn advocating the impoverishment of merchants.
Positive Impact : World war increased demand for jute bags, cloth from industries, making possible for the first time in India for the development of Indian industries, hence business groups reaped profits from War in India.