What was the reason behind the Britishers initiative for industrial development in the colonial era?

To serve their selfish interests.

Option 3: "To serve their selfish interests" is the primary reason behind the Britishers' initiative for industrial development in the colonial era.

During the colonial period, the British Empire sought to exploit the resources and manpower of their colonies for their own benefit. Industrial development in the colonies allowed them to extract raw materials more efficiently, establish markets for their manufactured goods, and generate profits for themselves. This initiative primarily served the economic and strategic interests of the British Empire rather than benefiting the colonies themselves.

Options 1 and 2 might have been secondary or indirect consequences of British industrial development in the colonies, but they were not the primary motivation. Therefore, Option 3 is the most accurate choice.