Social Science (087) — AI-generated practice question

Trade barriers are restrictions placed by the government on foreign trade, such as taxes (tariffs) on imports, to regulate the flow of goods into the country.

After Independence, India imposed trade barriers to protect domestic producers from foreign competition. Industries were still developing in the 1950s–60s, and cheap imports would have prevented Indian industries from growing. Only essential items like machinery, fertilisers, and petroleum were allowed.

Source: Liberalisation of foreign trade and foreign investment policy, Chapter 4

---

This is a 2-mark question, so one sentence defining trade barriers and 2–3 lines on why India used them is sufficient. Examiners expect:

• A correct definition with an example (tax on imports).
• The reason: protection of infant/nascent industries from foreign competition.
• Mention of the time period (1950s–60s) to show contextual awareness.

Avoid writing long paragraphs — you'll waste time and marks are not awarded for extra length.