Agrarian Development in Colonial India: The British and Bihar

This book explores agriculture, development, poverty, and British rule in India's Patna Division between 1870 and 1920, examining the economic influence of British policies and the impact of legal, administrative, and scientific interventions on rural conditions and norms. It also presents case studies on famines, debts, canal and village irrigation, flood protection, and the cultivation and production of indigo, opium, and sugar. The book analyzes extensive archival material to reflect on property law, scientific interventions, cropping patterns, trade, and intermediaries, examining the economic role of governments, Eurocentric development theories, and the complex impact of development policy on agriculture and society in Bihar.

Format: Hardback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 09 July 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate web of agriculture, development, poverty, and British rule in India, with a specific focus on the Patna Division in Bihar during the period spanning from approximately 1870 to 1920. It meticulously explores the profound economic influence of British policies and meticulously maps the far-reaching impact of legal, administrative, and scientific interventions on rural conditions and norms within the state.

The book engages in a critical examination of British theories and policies of "improvement," comparing them with the agricultural practices and socio-economic realities of Bihar to draw insightful conclusions about rural impoverishment. Building upon his earlier work, Ancient Rights and Future Comfort on the Bengal Tenancy Act of 1885, the author presents compelling case studies on a range of topics, including famines, debts, canal and village irrigation, flood protection, and the cultivation and production of indigo, opium, and sugar. Through meticulous analysis of extensive archival material, he sheds light on property law, scientific interventions, cropping patterns, trade, and intermediaries, offering a deep reflection on the complex interplay between these factors and their profound impact on agriculture and society in Bihar.

This book holds immense appeal to academics and students engaged in the study of colonial history, modern Indian history, agrarian studies, economic history, sociology, and development studies. Its rich content and scholarly insights make it an invaluable resource for those seeking to understand the intricate dynamics of a bygone era and the enduring legacies it has left behind. Moreover, development practitioners and researchers interested in the history of agrarian conditions and public policy will find this book to be a valuable companion in their pursuit of knowledge and understanding.

Weight: 592g
Dimension: 161 x 242 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367771096