Who introduced the printing press to India, and in which region was it first used? Briefly explain the purpos…

Question

Who introduced the printing press to India, and in which region was it first used? Briefly explain the purpose behind its early use.

Accepted Answer

## Model Answer The printing press was first introduced to India by **Portuguese missionaries** in **Goa** in the mid-sixteenth century. Jesuit priests learnt Konkani and used the press primarily to print **religious tracts** to spread Christianity. By 1674, about 50 books had been printed in Konkani and Kanara languages. Catholic priests also printed the first Tamil book in 1579 at Cochin and the first Malayalam book in 1713, all aimed at aiding missionary and religious work. *Source: Chapter 5, Section 6.2 – Print Comes to India* --- ## Explanation - The examiner expects three clear points: **who** (Portuguese missionaries/Jesuit priests), **where** (Goa), and **purpose** (religious/missionary work — printing tracts, spreading Christianity). - Mention of specific details like "50 books by 1674" or first Tamil/Malayalam books adds precision and scores full marks. - Do not confuse this with the later English press (Hickey, 1780) — that is a separate development.

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