Why did the East India Company appoint ‘Gomasthas’ ?
Answers
In the 18th century, the East India Company had established itself in India. There was a great demand for Indian cotton and Silk fabrics worldwide and hence were of special interest to East India Co. The small number of Englishmen, and their unfamiliarity with the local language and society compelled the Company to turn to local agents.
The Company appointed Gomasthas to supervise weavers in India in order to establish a direct control over the them, free of the existing traders and brokers in the cloth trade.They were paid servants who supervised the weavers,collected supplies and examined the quality of cloth.They ensured that management control of the cloth industry came under the British. which would helped in eliminating competition, keeping cost under control and a free flow of regular supplies of cotton and silk.
Gomastha compelled local weavers and artisans to deliver goods to the Company and to sign bonds compelling them to deliver goods to the Company.
Answer:
East indian Company Appointed Gomasthas :-
- to get direct control over production
- to prevent the weavers from trading with other buisnessman
- to watch the quality