Question

Write any three reasons for the rise of Jotedars.

Hint:

The rise of Jotedars is linked to British colonial policies and the commercialization of agriculture, which allowed wealthy landowners to gain control over vast areas of land.

Answer 1

Step 1: Socio-Economic Changes.
The rise of Jotedars (large landowners) can be attributed to various socio-economic changes, including the expansion of agricultural land and the growth of agrarian economies, especially during the colonial period.

Step 2: British Policies.
British policies, particularly the Permanent Settlement of Bengal (1793), enabled wealthy landowners to gain more power and control over land, leading to the rise of Jotedars as they were granted control over agricultural production.

Step 3: Commercialization of Agriculture.
The commercialization of agriculture during British rule encouraged the growth of cash crops and resulted in the concentration of land in the hands of a few, thereby increasing the prominence of Jotedars in rural areas.