Famine of 1943 (Bengal Famine)
The Bengal Famine of 1943 was one of the worst famines in Indian history, killing around 2-3 million people due to starvation and diseases.
Worst-Affected Areas
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South-West Bengal was the most affected region.
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Some parts of Bihar, Orissa, and Assam also suffered.
Main Causes of the Famine
1. War and the British Army
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World War II was happening at that time.
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The British diverted a lot of food for their army, leaving less for the local people.
2. No Rice Imports from Burma & Southeast Asia
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Burma (Myanmar today) was occupied by Japan, so India couldn’t import rice from there.
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India had been dependent on Burmese rice, so when imports stopped, there was a huge shortage.
3. Government Mismanagement & Profiteering
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The British failed to control food prices and allowed hoarding (storing large amounts to sell at high prices).
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Big traders and landlords hoarded rice to sell it later at high prices, making the situation worse.
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Rationing (fair distribution of food) was introduced too late and was only for big cities, not rural areas.
Effects of the Famine
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Millions of people died from starvation.
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Diseases spread due to malnutrition.
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Villages were emptied as people migrated to cities in search of food.
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People were forced to sell their land, homes, and even children for food.
Conclusion
The British government was responsible for the famine due to poor management, war policies, and failure to provide timely relief. It exposed the cruelty of colonial rule and increased the demand for independence.