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, and examines the economic role of governments, Eurocentric development theories, and the complex impact of development policy on agriculture and society in Bihar.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
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 the rural conditions and norms of 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 the rural impoverishment that plagued the region. Building upon his earlier work, Ancient Rights and Future Comfort, which delved into the Bengal Tenancy Act of 1885, the author presents captivating 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 a meticulous analysis of extensive archival material, the author reflects on various aspects of property law, scientific interventions, cropping patterns, trade, and intermediaries. He delves into the economic role of governments, Eurocentric development theories, and the intricate interplay of development policies on agriculture and society in Bihar.

This book is a valuable resource for academics and students engaged in the study of colonial history, modern Indian history, agrarian studies, economic history, sociology, and development studies. It offers insightful perspectives and valuable insights into the complex dynamics that shaped the agricultural landscape and the lives of the people in Bihar during this transformative period. Moreover, it will be of immense utility to development practitioners and researchers who are interested in exploring the history of agrarian conditions and public policy, as it provides valuable lessons and methodologies for addressing contemporary development challenges.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032033020