"Opening up of Suez Canal helped in establishing the British monopoly control over India's foreign trade". Justify the given statement with valid arguments. "Development of Railways during British rule encouraged colonial exploitation of the Indian resources." Justify the given statement with valid arguments.

Question

Accepted Answer

I **justify** the statement that opening of Suez Canal helped establish British monopoly over India's foreign trade. Arguments:

1. **Reduced Distance:** Suez Canal reduced distance between Britain and India by 5,100 miles as ships no longer needed to travel around southern Africa.

2. **Lower Transportation Costs:** Direct route reduced cost of transportation, making trade more profitable.

3. **Easier Access:** Made access to Indian market easier for British goods.

4. **Monopoly Control:** More than half of India's foreign trade was restricted to Britain.

**Development of Railways:**
- Railways enabled long distance travel, breaking geographical barriers
- Promoted national integration
- Enhanced commercialisation of agriculture
- Benefited British more than Indians
- Led to huge economic losses to Indian economy