Floods and the Rural Economy of South-West Bengal, c. 1784-1793

Abstract

Bengal, especially the lower portion of south-west Bengal, is one of the most floodprone regions in the world and its backwardness has allegedly been a result of the annual ravages caused by river spills. Standing crops and habitations are submerged under water for days, and communication is disrupted and inhabitants are often forced into distress migration. Economic life becomes most uncertain. Consequently, the settlement of bandhs and pools was an important aspect of the administrative system in pre-colonial and colonial times. During the colonial period, ensuring revenue collection became the primary aim of the East India Company. Hence, by introducing the Permanent Settlement, it took an essential step and gave an institutionalized form to flood control and embankment construction. Accordingly, the Company presumed that the zamindar would sit at the apex of a new agrarian order and affirm private property, generate economic surpluses, and ensure political stability.