1881 in India

The year 1881 in India was marked by significant political, social, and economic developments during the British colonial period. The Indian National Congress, formed in 1885, laid the groundwork for future nationalist movements, though in 1881 it remained in its formative stage. The Great Indian Peninsula Railway completed major expansions, enhancing trade and mobility. Notably, the Census of 1881 provided crucial demographic data, revealing a diverse population of over 250 million. This period also witnessed social reform movements, spearheaded by figures such as Jyotirao Phule and Swami Vivekananda, addressing issues of caste and education. Meanwhile, the subcontinent faced challenges such as famine and agricultural distress, prompting discussions on land revenue policies.