Social Science (087) — AI-generated practice question

The share of Indian cotton piece-goods in exports declined from 33% in 1811–12 to just 3% by 1850–51 due to two main reasons:

1. Collapse of export markets: Britain imposed high tariff duties on Indian cotton imports to protect its own growing cotton industry. Indian textiles also faced stiff competition in other international markets from British manufacturers.

1. Flooding of local markets: The East India Company was pressurised by British industrialists to open Indian markets to British goods. Cheap, machine-made Manchester cloth flooded India, making it impossible for Indian handloom weavers to compete. Thus, both the export market collapsed and the domestic market shrank simultaneously.

Source: Chapter 4, Section 3.3 Manchester Comes to India; Chapter 3, Section 2.6

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Examiners expect two clear, distinct causes with relevant data (the % figures add value). The key terms are: tariff barriers, Manchester imports, machine-made goods, East India Company pressure. Avoid writing only one cause — both the export collapse AND the local market shrinkage must be mentioned for full marks. Keep it concise; do not narrate the entire story of Indian weaving.