Individual Paper
2. From Oceanic Crossroads: Empires, Networks and Histories
ABSTRACT Trade and Commerce in British India: Case study of Shimla Hill States (1815-1947) Introduction: Presently, Shimla town is a National and International attraction. The British takeover of the Shimla Hill States was a turning point in the socio-economic and cultural life of local people. A few states viz. Keonthal, Koti, Theog, Ghund and Madhan were situated in the vicinity of Shimla, the Summer Capital of the British. But these states were more affected by the British intervention and exploitation than other distant hill states. Goals and Methods: The present paper is an effort to peep into the commercial activities generated and geared up by the British in traditional feudal setup. Local products such as grains, vegetables, fruits and milk were in great demand at Shimla. Even grass and firewood were sold in the town. There were markets for storage and supply of local products in nearest hill states. The prices of essential commodities were well fixed by local trade unions. The research is based on Historical Method with inclusion of primary as well as secondary sources of relevant information. Conclusion: The British administrators deserve appreciation for their efforts to develop the means of transport and communication in the hill states. Consequently, trade and commerce flourished in the Shimla Hill States including West Tibet. But self-sustained village economy of hill states was exposed to rapid commercialization and urbanization. Sadly, local cottage industries of villages faced total extinction. Keywords: British, Shimla Hill States, trade and commerce, Transport and communication, local products.
Kashmir Chand Kashyap
Himachal Pradesh University, India