Q. In the nineteenth century, which international event brought about the switch to jute as a packaging material thus providing an impetus to the development of the jute industry in India?
(a) Crimean War
(b) American Civil War
(c) Opening of Suez Canal
(d) Russo-Japanese War
Ans: (a) Opening of Suez Canal
Explanation:
The international event that brought about the switch to jute as a packaging material and provided an impetus to the development of the jute industry in India was (c) Opening of Suez Canal.
The opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 facilitated faster and more efficient trade routes between Europe and Asia. This led to a significant increase in maritime trade and transportation. During this period, jute, with its strong and durable fibers, emerged as an ideal material for packaging various goods, especially for long-distance transportation.
The availability of jute in India and its suitability for packaging purposes made it a preferred choice for packaging goods transported through the Suez Canal. As a result, the demand for jute as a packaging material increased rapidly, leading to the growth of the jute industry in India.
Therefore, the correct answer is (c) Opening of Suez Canal.
