The correct Answer is 2 only
Explanation
The question pertains to the development of Indian ports in the post-Independence era, specifically focusing on the impact of the Partition of India and the subsequent growth trajectory of port infrastructure.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1: India had to develop new ports like Kandla because partition resulted in the loss of Karachi and Chittagong ports.
- Correct. The Partition of India in 1947 led to the loss of major ports to Pakistan. Karachi port went to West Pakistan, and Chittagong port went to East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). This created a significant void in India's port infrastructure, particularly for trade with the western and eastern regions. To compensate for the loss of Karachi, the port of Kandla was developed in Gujarat to cater to the needs of western India, especially for trade with the Middle East and Europe. Similarly, the loss of Chittagong necessitated the development of alternative ports on India's eastern coast.
- Statement 2: Indian ports grew slowly after Independence due to lack of private investment.
- Incorrect. The slow growth of Indian ports after Independence was primarily due to the government's policy of centralized planning and public sector dominance. The development of major ports was largely undertaken by the central government, and private investment in port infrastructure was not a significant feature of the initial post-Independence economic policy. The lack of private investment was a consequence of the policy framework rather than the sole cause of slow growth. Other factors included limited financial resources, technological constraints, and bureaucratic processes within the public sector.
Key Takeaway
The Partition of India directly necessitated the development of new ports like Kandla to compensate for the loss of strategically important ports to Pakistan.