gs1medium

The staple commodities of export by the English East India Company from Bengal in the middle of the 18th century were:

  1. A.Raw cotton, oil-seeds and opium
  2. B.Sugar, salt, zinc and lead
  3. C.Copper, silver, gold, spices and tea
  4. 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

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