Who authored the book " Poverty and un-British rule"
Last updated Jun 23, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option B —
Dadbhai Naoroji
Dadabhai Naoroji, often referred to as the "Grand Old Man of India," published this seminal work in 1901. It provided a stinging economic critique of British colonialism and laid the intellectual foundation for the Indian national movement.
Key Contributions of the Book
The "Drain of Wealth" Theory: This was the central theme of the book. Naoroji argued that Britain was systematically draining India's wealth and resources to the United Kingdom, leaving India in a state of chronic poverty and famine.
The "Un-British" Nature: The title was a strategic choice. Naoroji argued that the exploitative and oppressive policies being followed in India were "un-British" because they contradicted the principles of justice and democracy that Britain claimed to uphold at home.
Economic Impact: He calculated that the "drain" occurred through various channels, such as:
Home Charges: Payments made by the Indian government for the Secretary of State's office in London.
Pensions and Salaries: Remittances sent back to Britain by military and civil officers.
Interest on Foreign Debt: Profits and interest earned by British capitalists on investments in India.
Call for Self-Government: Naoroji concluded that the only way to stop this economic exploitation was for India to have a "responsible government" or Swaraj.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
