‘Drain of Wealth’, a critique of the colonial exploitation, was given by which of the following nationalist leaders?

Correct option is A

Correct Answer: A. Dadabhai Naoroji

The concept of the "Drain of Wealth" was introduced by Dadabhai Naoroji in his book Poverty and Un-British Rule in India. He argued that the British were systematically transferring India’s wealth to Britain through excessive taxation, salaries of British officials, and trade policies. This economic exploitation led to India's poverty and underdevelopment.

• Dadabhai Naoroji is known as the "Grand Old Man of India."
• He was the first Indian to be elected to the British Parliament.
• His theory stated that India's wealth was drained in forms like home charges, salaries of British officers, and trade surplus.
• He was a founding member of the Indian National Congress (INC).
• His work influenced economic nationalism in India.

•  Rajendra Prasad : First President of India, contributed to Constituent Assembly.
•  Chakravarti Rajagopalachari : Last Governor-General of India, supporter of self-governance.
• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel : Known for integration of princely states but not related to the "Drain of Wealth" theory.