Was British rule beneficial to India?

Although, British rule in India was repressive, they were certain benefits that came about as a result:

• The British constructed extensive railway lines that connected and still connects far flung areas of the country

• Social reforms like the abolition of Sati and widow marriage became possible.

• Destruction of dacoits and bandits that usually plagued the countryside. 

For further reading check the following articles:

• British Empire
• British Raj
• European Colonialism