De-industrialization and Foreign Rule : An Appraisal of De-industrialisation of India During 1757-1857

Before the advent of Europeans, India hadacquired the position of the industrial workshopof the world and known for globally demanded itsindustrial goods. During 17th and 18th centuriesthree sort of Industries existed and flourished inIndia, viz--the rural cottage industries ,the urbandomestic industries and the small urban factory. Thecottage industry of weaving, carpentry ,potteryetc. provided daily requirements of the villageswhile urban domestic industry provided variouskinds of products for the people living in townsand cities. The small urban factory not onlyproduced sophisticated products but also engagedsome hired labour and carrying specialization. Theurban handicrafts industry produced fine textilesand luxury products for aristocratic classes. It hadachieved a high water-mark of excellence as itsproducts gained global reputation. It contributed alot to the Indian economic growth across thecountry. But its excellence and reputation graduallydeclined from the mid of the 19th century though it