Abstract

The Social and Economic Impact of Britich Colonial Policies on the Silk Weaver Community of Bhagalpur

Ankit Kumar, Prof. (Dr.) Girish Chandra Pandey

Volume: 16 Issue: 4 2026

Abstract:

The present research paper aims to undertake a historical analysis of the social and economic transformations that took place in the silk industry of Bhagalpur and its associated weaving community during the colonial period. The silk-weaving tradition of Bhagalpur predates British rule, and tussar silk, traditional handloom techniques, and family-based labour arrangements played a significant role in its development. Following the Battle of Buxar in 1764 and the acquisition of Diwani rights by the East India Company in 1765, the Company's influence over the economic structure of Bihar and Bengal increased. Silk became one of the major commercial interests of the Company, and colonial intervention in production, reeling, quality control, and trade intensified.

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References

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