The First World War significantly fueled the growth of the National Movement in India through several interconnected factors:

1. Economic Hardship: The war led to a huge increase in defence expenditure, which was financed by war loans and increased taxes. Custom duties were raised and income tax was introduced, causing immense economic hardship for common people. Prices of goods doubled between 1913 and 1918.
2. Forced Recruitment: The colonial government carried out forced recruitment of soldiers from rural areas, causing widespread anger and resentment against the British.
3. Famines and Epidemics: In 1918-19 and 1920-21, crops failed in many parts of India, resulting in acute food shortages. This was accompanied by a deadly influenza epidemic, and the government's response was seen as inadequate, further alienating the populace.
4. Political Disillusionment: Indian leaders had hoped that their support for Britain in the war would be rewarded with a move towards self-government. The minor constitutional reforms offered were seen as a betrayal, shattering their faith in British justice and pushing them towards more aggressive nationalist activities.