How was consumption turned into political action in the Swadeshi movement?

Correct answer: By boycotting foreign goods and supporting indigenous production

The direct answer is A: Swadeshi turned consumption into political action by boycotting foreign goods and supporting indigenous production. The central idea was that buying is not always a private economic choice; under colonial rule it can strengthen the ruler’s industries and profits. Swadeshi supporters therefore refused imported goods, especially British goods, and encouraged Indian-made cloth and other products. This reduced cooperation with colonial economic structures and encouraged local producers. Option A is correct because boycott and support for domestic production were practical forms of protest. Option B is wrong because increasing demand for colonial goods would strengthen the colonial economy rather than challenge it. Option C is wrong because closing local industries would weaken self-reliance and employment. Option D is wrong because accepting slave trade has no connection with the constructive economic programme of Swadeshi. The movement expressed economic nationalism: national freedom was supported through everyday market choices. Memory cue: Swadeshi means own-country goods; boycott foreign goods and build local production.