Assertion (A): The British Government did not promote capital goods industries in India. Reason (R): They wanted Indians to remain dependent on Britain for capital goods and heavy equipment. --- ### Section D: Case-Based MCQs **Case Study 1** Before the advent of British rule, India was an independent, self-reliant and prosperous economy. Agriculture was the main source of livelihood for most people, engaging about two-thirds of the total population. India was also well known for its handicraft industries in cotton and silk textiles, metal and precious stone works. Muslin from Bengal, especially 'Daccai Muslin', had gained worldwide fame. However, the economic policies pursued by the colonial government brought a fundamental change in the structure of the Indian economy.