Explanation: The Coromandel Coast, located in southeastern India, became a significant center for textile production and export during the 17th century. This region, which includes parts of present-day Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, was known for its high-quality cotton textiles, particularly the fine muslins and calicoes that were in high demand in European and Asian markets.
During the early 17th century, Gujarat, located in western India, was a major textile-producing region and a significant exporter of cotton and silk textiles. However, by the mid-17th century, the Coromandel Coast began to rival Gujarat in terms of textile production and export. By 1640, the volume of cloth exported from the Coromandel Coast had equaled that of Gujarat, indicating a significant shift in the regional dynamics of the Indian textile trade.
The growth of the Coromandel Coast's textile industry was driven by several factors. The region's fertile soil and favorable climate were conducive to cotton cultivation, and the skilled labor force in the area was adept at producing high-quality textiles. Additionally, the Coromandel Coast's proximity to European trading posts, such as those established by the British East India Company and the Dutch East India Company, facilitated the export of textiles to European markets.
By 1660, the Coromandel Coast's exports had tripled in comparison to Gujarat's, reflecting the growing importance of the Coromandel region in the global textile trade. This growth was partly due to the increasing demand for Indian textiles in Europe and the strategic advantages of the Coromandel Coast's location for trade.
Understanding the historical context of the Coromandel Coast's rise in the textile trade is crucial for comprehending the economic and social changes that occurred in India during the 17th century. The shift in the balance of textile production and export from Gujarat to the Coromandel Coast highlights the dynamic nature of the Indian economy and the impact of colonial trade on regional economic development.
In summary, the correct answer is (A) 1640, 1660, as it accurately reflects the historical timeline of the growth in cloth exports from the Coromandel Coast relative to Gujarat. This period marked a significant transformation in the Indian textile industry and the global trade patterns of the 17th century.