Factories Act and labour movement in British India

Statement 1 is incorrect: The Factories Act, 1881 was primarily designed to regulate working conditions, hours of work, and child labour in factories. It did not aim to fix wages or allow workers to form trade unions; it was focused on workplace safety and labour standards. Statement 2 is correct: Narayan Meghaji Lokhande (N.M. Lokhande) was indeed a pioneer of the labour movement in British India, organizing workers and advocating for their rights in the late 19th century. He is considered one of the first labour activists in India. > KEY INSIGHT: The Factories Act 1881 focused on working conditions and safety, not wages or union rights. N.M. Lokhande was instrumental in early labour organizing. Answer: (b).