gs1medium
The staple commodities of export by the English East India Company from Bengal in the middle of the 18th century were:
- A.Raw cotton, oil-seeds and opium
- B.Sugar, salt, zinc and lead
- C.Copper, silver, gold, spices and tea
- D.Cotton, silk, saltpetre and opium
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: D. Cotton, silk, saltpetre and opium
The English East India Company's trade from Bengal in the mid-18th century was dominated by indigenous manufactured goods and raw materials. Textiles, particularly cotton and silk, were key exports. Saltpetre, used for gunpowder, was also a significant commodity, as was opium, especially for trade with China. Other options include items not predominantly exported or of lesser importance during this specific period and region.
Source: UPSC gs1 2018