Garhshankar, 10 October (Hari Krishan Gangar):- The History Department of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College, Mahilpur, organized a special lecture on the topic “Colonial Rule and Economy in India.” Dr. Tariq Ahmad Sheikh, Associate Professor at Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, attended the event as the keynote speaker.
The college’s officiating Principal, Professor Aradhana Duggal, delivered the welcome address and encouraged students to participate enthusiastically in such academic events. Dr. Dev Kumar, Head of the History Department, highlighted the academic achievements of keynote speaker Dr. Tariq Ahmad Sheikh. He also shared his views on the impact of British rule on the country’s economy.
On the occasion, keynote speaker Dr. Tariq Ahmad explained the impact of colonial policies on India’s economy, covering the period from the East India Company’s early commercial ventures before the Battles of Plassey and Buxar to the revolt of 1857. He presented research-based insights into the effects of British colonialism, first through the East India Company and later as rulers, on India’s agriculture, domestic industries, handicrafts, artisanal work and other occupations, as well as the country’s steadily deteriorating economic condition.
He then discussed the impact on the country’s agricultural economy, labourers, agriculture-based occupations and other livelihoods up to 1947. He stated that India’s economy had been used to serve British imperial interests. During his lecture, he also held a question-and-answer session with the students.
Dr. Dev Kumar conducted the proceedings. Professor Anil Kalsi, Dr. J. B. Sekhon, Dr. Aarti Sharma, Dr. Tara Devi, Professor Kanchan, Dr. Rajinder Prasad, Professor Amandeep Kaur, Professor Ashok Kumar and students were also present.
