Shifting Boundaries of Modern Indian Economic History: Perspectives from Global South Asia

The study of India’s economic history has undergone significant evolution since the late 19th century, primarily through the efforts of nationalist intellectuals. In the early 20th century, economic history gained prominence within academia, leading to the flourishing of the discipline, which was propelled by nationalistic and Marxist critiques during the decolonization period. The field experienced substantial growth in the 1950s and 1960s. However, by the late 1960s, a generational shift and the emergence of empirical, econometric methods marked a departure from earlier methodologies. The 1980s introduced further changes with the influence of monetarist theories and a migration towards quantitative methods, reflecting broader trends within global historiography. This period also witnessed an increasing focus on environmental history, labor dynamics, and the socio-economic roles of marginalized groups, including women and tribal communities. Despite these advancements, the discipline faced a decline in the late 20th century, attributed to the diminishing influence of Marxism and the ascendance of neoliberal economics. At present, economic history in India stands at a crossroads, with opportunities for rejuvenation through interdisciplinary approaches and new heterodox frameworks. This article traces these developments, highlighting significant contributions and the shifting paradigms that have significantly influenced the study of economic history in India and the broader context of global South Asia.