This is why a situation where multiple Western powers have interests in India works in favour of the Indians. If there's a balance of power, no one European power can move as freely.
If, say, Maharaja Ravi Varma I of Travancore was a good ruler but his son Ravi Varma II is a moron the HEIC might want to move in but if Travancore is in the French sphere of influence, they might not be able to do so as effectively. Same thing goes for the French against British clients.
Very true. But again, not to belabor the point, we've gotten away from industrialization. What economic conditions are needed in Bengal for them to be able to industrialize during the 19th century? This is presuming the lack of a colonial power.
Cheers,
Ganesha