What was the main source of livelihood in india at the pre independence period?
Answers
Answer:
During the pre-British period, i.e. during the mid-eighteenth century, the condition of Indian economy was not at all satisfactory. Just after the death of Aurangzeb in 1707, the central power at Delhi was so weak that the situation had led to disintegration and gradual downfall of deep rooted Mughal Empire.
During 1750, the Indian economy was passing through recurrence of crisis and disorders because by this time the central power at Delhi was either weakened or disappeared.
The writings of Dr. Francis Bukanon, Charles Metacalfe and Prof. Gadgil made available sufficient information about the conditions of Indian economy during the pre-British period.
Indian economy, during the pre-British period, consisted of backward, isolated and self sustaining villages on the one hand and on the other hand, there were number of towns which were the seats of administration, pilgrimage, commerce and handicrafts.
During this period, the mode of transport and communication of India were totally backward, underdeveloped and insufficient. Under such a situation, the size of market was also very small.
Condition of Indian Villages and Village Communities during Pre-British Period:
During the pre-British period, the village community was composed of different groups based on simple division of labour. There were farmers who cultivated land and tended cattle. Other groups of people were weavers, goldsmith, potters, washermen, carpenters, cobblers, oil pressers, barber-surgeons etc.