India was a major supplier of raw materials to the Allied powers during the First World War, and its industrial production increased significantly during this period. This article looks at the factors that contributed to this increase in industrial production, and how it helped India become a major player in the international market.
India’s Industrial Production During WWI
Prior to the outbreak of World War I, India’s industrial production was largely limited to the production of textiles and other raw materials. This was due to the fact that India was largely an agrarian society, and did not have the technology or resources to produce more complex goods. During the war, however, India’s industrial production increased significantly, as the British government sought to make use of India’s resources to supply the Allied forces.
How the War Led to an Increase
The First World War led to an increase in industrial production in India for several reasons. Firstly, the British government provided funds and resources to Indian industries, allowing them to expand and develop. Secondly, the war itself created a need for more goods, such as ammunition and weapons, which had to be manufactured in India. Thirdly, the war created a demand for raw materials such as cotton, which allowed Indian industries to expand their production. Finally, the war also created a need for skilled labour, which was provided by Indian workers.
The increased industrial production during the First World War allowed India to become a major player in the international market. The increased production of goods such as weapons allowed India to become a major supplier to the Allied forces, while the increased production of raw materials such as cotton allowed India to become a major exporter of these goods. Furthermore, the increased demand for skilled labour allowed Indian workers to gain valuable experience and expertise in the industrial sector.
Overall, the First World War had a significant impact on India’s industrial production. The war led to an increase in production, which allowed India to become a major player in the international market. Furthermore, it also provided valuable experience and expertise to Indian workers, allowing them to become more competitive in the global economy.