The main purpose of the introduction of the railway network in India by the British was to:
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Answer: To promote the efficient transportation of raw materials and finished goods and facilitate military movements for British economic interests.
Explanation:
Railways in India were introduced in 1853 during the reign of Lord Dalhousie. The British's primary objective was not the welfare of the Indian people, but to further their imperialist interests. Through railways, they wanted to quickly transport raw materials (such as cotton and coal) from the interior of India to ports and sell finished goods produced in British mills to Indian markets. Furthermore, after the 1857 rebellion, the British government realized that railways were essential for the rapid movement of troops and supplies from one corner of the country to another to suppress rebellions.
Additional Points:
First Railway: Operated between Bori Bunder (Mumbai) and Thane on April 16, 1853.
Guarantee System: To attract initial investment, British investors were guaranteed a 5% interest rate.
Negative Impact: This accelerated the decline of the Indian handicraft industry.
Exam Questions and Answers:
1. Question: Who is known as the 'Father of Railways'? Answer: Lord Dalhousie.
2. Question: In which year was the railway budget separated from the general budget?
Answer: 1924 (on the recommendation of the Acworth Committee).