The Land Revenue Policy under British rule in India was a cornerstone of the colonial economic framework, deeply affecting the socio-economic fabric of Indian society. This policy was intricately designed to fulfill the financial requirements of the British East India Company (and later the British Crown), covering the costs of colonial administration, military conquests, and economic ventures

The agrarian setup in pre-British India was a multifaceted amalgamation of economic, social, and political factors deeply embedded in rural existence. At the heart of this setup was the self-sufficient village community, a vital concept that shaped agricultural practices, land ownership patterns, and the overall organization of society before the onset of colonial rule. This discussion will explore the different facets of this agrarian structure, shedding light on its main characteristics, the consistency and changes in agricultural relationships, and how these evolved across various historical epochs.

The Concept of the Self-Sufficient Village

1.Economic Autarky: Villages in pre-British India were predominantly self-sufficient units, generating almost all necessities within the community. This self-reliance extended from food production to the creation of basic tools and handicrafts, minimizing dependencies on external trade or resources.

2.Social Organization: The village functioned as a 'little republic', with a complex social structure that included various castes and occupations necessary for the self-sufficiency of the community. This system was supported by a set of social norms and obligations that ensured the smooth functioning of the village economy.

Agricultural Practices and Tools

1.Traditional Agriculture: Farming methods were traditional, relying on primitive tools like wooden ploughs, and were heavily dependent on seasonal monsoons. Crop rotation and organic fertilizers were commonly used practices to maintain soil fertility.