>>34130
>what would have happened if England never colonized India?
This directly affects development in Afghanistan and if they don't take that, later in China (no Opium Wars).
British expansion either goes into other directions or stalls.
Possibly less demand for materials the Fleet needs (like wood and hemp), which alone would have major economical and political consequences far outside British territories.
>>34146
>>Other European nations probably try to exert influence over India
Yup. And not only European.
>>India stays fragmented and many places stay even more backward than they are today
Not necessarily.
For one, the whole "Asian Sphere of Co-prosperity" thing would have a better chance, especially because without the need to prepare for all-out war with British fleet it could start with little to no preparation. Once the main players come to agreement, extend the railway from Russia to south, then walk in and ask "who want to be my autonomous minor partner?" - there's always someone really down on his luck at the moment. Rinse, repeat.
Maybe the Japanese would be less cooperative without British presence so close, but probably not, especially if there are other Europeans messing around. Economically, having more resources before the fighting starts is still to their benefit.