The Changes introduced by the British in India

Economy:

The British policies towards agriculture and industry were mainly aimed at their benefit. This resulted in the commercialization of agriculture and the ruin of traditional Indian industries.

Polity:

Various Acts passed by the English had positive and negative outcomes. However, the most significant result of the new laws was the enforcement of British authority over the Indian mainland. New laws like the Regulating Act of 1773, Pitts India Act of 1784, various Charter Acts, etc led to constitutional development. On the administration part, too various changes were introduced – particularly the revenue administration, civil services, police, army, and judicial services.

Society:

British policies towards education, language, and culture resulted in significant transformation in Indian society. While the positive changes were welcomed by Indian society, the oppressive measures resulted in revolts and rebellions.

How did British rule affect the Indian Villages: Ruling the Countryside

Permanent Settlement (Zamindari):

The Company introduced the Permanent Settlement in 1793. By the terms of the settlement, the rajas and taluqdars were recognized as zamindars. They were asked to collect rent from the peasants and pay revenue to the Company. The amount to be paid was fixed permanently – it was not to be increased ever in the future. However, the Permanent Settlement created problems, as zamindars often found it difficult to pay, leading to the sale of numerous zamindaris.

Mahalwari settlement:

In the North-Western Provinces of the Bengal Presidency, the Mahalwari settlement was introduced in 1822. This system involved village headmen in revenue collection and periodic revision of revenue demands. The Mahalwari settlement aimed at encouraging investment in land and improving agriculture.

Ryotwari / Munro System:

In the south, the Ryotwari system was introduced by Captain Alexander Read and later Thomas Munro. This system involved direct settlement with cultivators (ryots) who tilled the land for generations. The fields were surveyed, and revenue assessments were made. The Ryotwari system aimed at reducing the intermediaries and establishing a direct relationship between the British government and the cultivators.

Indigo plantation:

British policies also affected agriculture, particularly the cultivation of indigo. The demand for indigo increased with Britain's industrialization, leading to efforts to persuade or force Indian cultivators to grow indigo. Two main systems of indigo cultivation, nij and ryoti, were prevalent. The indigo plantation system, especially the ryoti system, resulted in exploitation and oppression, leading to the "Blue Rebellion" of 1859.

How did British rule affect the Cities: Ruling the Colonial Cities & Urbanisation

Colonial records and urban history:

From the mid-18th century, colonial port cities such as Madras, Calcutta, and Bombay rapidly emerged as new economic capitals. Colonial records, censuses, and urban planning played a crucial role in understanding and regulating urban growth.

Trends of change:

Urbanization in India was slow-moving until the mid-19th century. Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras experienced rapid growth and became sprawling cities. The introduction of railways in 1853 brought changes to economic activity, and economic centers shifted away from traditional towns to cities.

New Towns:

By the 18th century, Madras, Calcutta, and Bombay had become important ports with European settlements. The growth of these cities was marked by the establishment of mercantile offices, fortified settlements, and later, industrial development. Modern industrial development in India began with cotton mills in Bombay and jute mills in Calcutta.

Urbanisation since 1857:

After the Revolt of 1857, British attitudes in India were shaped by a constant fear of rebellion. Urban areas were better defended, and white people lived in more secure and segregated enclaves. The establishment of "Civil Lines" and cantonments reflected these security measures. Sanitation regulations and building activity were also implemented to regulate Indian towns.

Conclusion:

British rule in India brought about significant changes in the economic, political, and social spheres. The impact was felt in the villages with changes in land-revenue systems, and in cities with the emergence of new economic centers and urban development. While some changes were aimed at benefiting the British, others had profound effects on Indian society and its traditional structures.

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