Correct Answer:
B. Suppression of local crafts and traditions
The correct answer is Suppression of local crafts and traditions. British colonialism in Punjab, like in other parts of India, often led to the decline of indigenous industries and cultural practices. The British promoted their own manufactured goods, leading to the suppression of local handicrafts, and introduced educational and administrative systems that often marginalized traditional knowledge and customs, impacting the local economy and cultural identity.
- Promotion of local handicrafts and traditions is incorrect; British policies generally favored their own industrial output.
- Encouragement of indigenous education is incorrect; the British introduced their own educational system.
- Establishment of equal trade relations is incorrect; trade relations were structured to benefit the colonial power.