The British implemented the Ryotwari system in regions such as the Madras and Bombay Presidencies, establishing direct revenue collection agreements with the ryots (farmers). This system was characterized by:
Substantial Taxation: Peasants faced considerable land revenue demands irrespective of their harvest, resulting in hardship during periods of drought or crop failure.
Inflexible Revenue Demands: Tax rates were set for extended durations without regard for fluctuating economic circumstances or the farmers' ability to pay.
Cycle of Debt: Farmers frequently resorted to borrowing from moneylenders to meet revenue obligations, trapping them in a continuous cycle of debt and land forfeiture.
Absence of Government Assistance: The government offered no structured support or financial investment to assist farmers in enhancing their agricultural practices.
Consequently, this system precipitated widespread destitution, land dispossession, and agricultural hardship among the Indian peasantry.