Simple Answer

The British wanted Indian farmers to grow cash crops because British factories needed raw materials to manufacture goods.

Cash crops included:

• Cotton – used in textile factories.
• Jute – used to make bags and other products.
• Indigo – used to make blue dye.
• Opium – grown as a commercial crop for trade.

The British wanted these crops to supply their industries in Britain and earn money through trade.

Explanation in Simple Words

The British wanted Indian farmers to grow crops that could be sold for money instead of only growing food for their families.

They needed these crops as raw materials for their factories. This reduced the land and effort available for growing food crops.

Real-Life Example

Imagine a factory owner forcing farmers to supply cotton to his factory. The owner earns money by selling finished products, but farmers may not have enough land left to grow food for themselves.

Important Points for Exams

1. British factories needed raw materials.
2. They encouraged farmers to grow commercial cash crops.
3. Cotton, jute, indigo and opium were examples.
4. These crops were supplied for British industries and trade.

Remember: The British wanted cash crops because they needed raw materials for their factories and trade.