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Abstract

This thesis examines the industrial experience of Bengal during the period from 1900 to 1939 with particular emphasis on the role of the government as the main instrument for growth. While Chapter I builds up the case for industrial development, Chapter II examines in detail the industrial policy of the Bengal Government in the light of its own limitations as a subordinate authority to the Government of India and that of Whitehall. Chapter III is an investigation of the labour market in Bengal with particular emphasis on the supply of labour to jute, tea and coal industries in relation to wages and conditions of work. In Chapter IV, we have examined the rates of profitability and security of industrial investments. In this chapter, we have also examined the various financial institutions of the time and their role in the industrial development of the province. Chapter V points to some of the handicaps experienced by Indian entrepreneurs, and in the above light looks at their contribution to the larger industrial establishments of Bengal. The next two Chapters, VI and VII examine the growth and development of the two biggest manufacturing industries of our period - jute and handloom cotton weaving industries. The concluding chapter, which is Chapter VIII, is an estimate of the industrial progress made in the province during the period under review.