All questions of India under British Rule: Governance & other Aspects for BPSC (Bihar) Exam

• 53 political parties were participating in the first general elections for the Lok Sabha seats. 
• These included the 14 national parties, according to the report by the Election Commission of India. Besides, there were independents. There were a total number of 1,874 candidates, including 533 independents.

For the 2nd and 3rd statement, see the notes and references mentioned after chapter Laxmikanth. 

Option c is wrong... area of zamindari is not as the same of ryotwari and mahalwari .

Nationalists believed that the refugee problem could only be solved through a transfer of population and acquisition of certain territories from Pakistan rehabilitate the people who came into India.

The correct answer is option 'C' - Both of them.

Explanation:
1. Formation of the Agrarian League:
The statement correctly states that the peasants of Yusufshahi Pargana in Patna district formed an agrarian league or combination. This league was formed by the peasants in response to the oppressive regime they were facing. The zamindars, who were the landowners, were imposing heavy demands on the peasants, leading to their dissatisfaction and desire for resistance.

2. Rent Strike by the Agrarian League:
The statement also correctly mentions that the league organized a rent strike. The ryots, which refers to the peasants or tenants, refused to pay the enhanced rents demanded by the zamindars. The ryots challenged the zamindars in the courts, seeking justice and relief from the oppressive demands.

The agrarian league's rent strike was a form of protest and resistance against the exploitative practices of the zamindars. By refusing to pay the enhanced rents, the ryots aimed to assert their rights and demand fair treatment. The strike also aimed to draw attention to the unjust conditions faced by the peasants and put pressure on the authorities to address their grievances.

Overall, both statements accurately describe the formation and actions of the Pabna Agrarian League. The league was formed by the peasants to resist the oppressive demands of the zamindars, and they organized a rent strike as a means of protest and seeking justice.

Incorrect Statements:

1. Congress winning majority in first general elections:
The statement is incorrect as the Congress did win a majority in the first general elections, but it did not form the government on its own. Instead, it formed a coalition government with other parties and Jawaharlal Nehru became the Prime Minister.

2. Rajendra Prasad elected president by electoral college:
This statement is also incorrect as Rajendra Prasad was indeed elected as the President of India, but not by the electoral college of the first parliament. He was elected by the members of the Constituent Assembly, which later became the first parliament of India.

Correct Answer:
The correct answer is option 'D' - Neither of them. Both statements are incorrect as explained above. It is important to have accurate information about historical events to have a better understanding of the political landscape of the country.

There was a rush of foreign capital in India at this time due to prospects of high profits, availability of cheap labour, cheap and readily available raw material, the ready market in India and the neighbours, diminishing avenues for investments at home, the willingness of the administration to provide all help, and ready markets abroad for some Indian exports such as tea, jute and manganese.

The first Council of Ministers of Independent India was as follows. 

And B are correct.

The Charter Act of 1833 was a significant act that brought about several changes in the administration of India. However, neither of the given options is correct about this act. Let's understand why:

1. It deprived the governor of Bombay and Madras of the executive powers: This statement is incorrect. In fact, the Charter Act of 1833 increased the power of the governors of Bombay and Madras by giving them the power to issue ordinances without the prior approval of the Governor-General in Council.

2. In this act, the Court of directors attempted to introduce the system of open competition for selection of civil servants: This statement is also incorrect. The system of open competition for selection of civil servants was actually introduced by the Charter Act of 1853, which abolished the East India Company's monopoly on the appointment of civil servants and opened up the civil service to competition.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 'D', which states that neither of the given options is correct. Some other important provisions of the Charter Act of 1833 include:

- It made English the official language of the courts and government in India, replacing Persian.
- It reorganized the legislative and executive councils and increased the number of British members in these councils.
- It abolished the trading activities of the East India Company, which was now limited to governance and administration.
- It provided for the establishment of a Law Commission to codify and consolidate laws in India.
- It extended the Company's monopoly on trade with China for another 20 years.

James Thomson, lieutenant-governor of NW Provinces (1843- 53), developed a comprehensive village education scheme through the medium of vernacular languages. In these village schools, useful subjects such as mensuration and agriculture sciences were taught. The purpose was to train personnel for the newly set up Revenue and Public Works Department. 

The correct answer is option 'A': 1 Only.

Explanation:
The Censorship of Press Act, 1799 was enacted by Lord Wellesley during his tenure as the Governor-General of India. The act was introduced in response to the prevailing political situation at that time.

1. Lord Wellesley enacted this, anticipating French invasion of India:
- Lord Wellesley enacted the Censorship of Press Act, 1799 as a preventive measure to control the press and limit the publication of certain materials.
- The act was primarily enacted in anticipation of a possible French invasion of India. The British authorities were concerned that the press might publish information that could aid the French forces or create panic among the public.
- The act gave the British government the power to censor and control the press, ensuring that no information that could compromise national security or create unrest was disseminated.

2. These restrictions become more oppressive under Lord Hastings:
- The statement that these restrictions became more oppressive under Lord Hastings is incorrect. Lord Hastings (1813-1823) was the Governor-General of India after Lord Wellesley (1798-1805).
- Lord Hastings did introduce certain regulations and laws regarding the press, but they were not as restrictive as those enacted under Lord Wellesley.
- Under Lord Hastings, there was a relaxation of press regulations compared to the earlier period. He emphasized the need for a free press and encouraged the growth of vernacular newspapers.
- The Press Regulations of 1823 introduced by Lord Hastings aimed to prevent the misuse of the press rather than impose strict censorship.

In conclusion, only statement 1 is correct. Lord Wellesley enacted the Censorship of Press Act, 1799 in anticipation of a French invasion of India. The statement about the restrictions becoming more oppressive under Lord Hastings is incorrect as he emphasized the need for a free press and introduced regulations to prevent misuse, rather than imposing strict censorship.

Bethune was the president of the Council of Education. The Bethune School founded by J.E.D. Bethune at Calcutta (1849)

Overview:
The correct statements about British policy on education are:
1. Education became a Monopoly of upper and rich classes
2. There was almost total neglect of women's education

Explanation:
The British policy on education in colonial India had a significant impact on the socio-economic structure of society. Here is a detailed explanation of the correct statements:

1. Education became a Monopoly of upper and rich classes:
During the British colonial era, education became a privilege of the upper and rich classes. The British implemented a policy that favored the education of the elite, ensuring that the upper classes had exclusive access to modern education.

- Macaulay's Minute: Lord Macaulay, in his famous Minute on Indian Education in 1835, advocated for the promotion of English education among the elite class. This Minute became the foundation of British educational policy in India.
- English as the medium of instruction: The British introduced English as the medium of instruction in schools and colleges. This meant that only those who could afford to learn English and send their children to English-medium schools had access to modern education.
- Creation of elitist institutions: The British established prestigious institutions like the Presidency Colleges, which were exclusively meant for the upper classes. These institutions played a crucial role in maintaining the educational monopoly of the elite.

2. There was almost total neglect of women's education:
The British policy on education in colonial India also resulted in the neglect of women's education. The education of women was largely ignored, and they were denied access to modern education.

- Traditional role of women: The British viewed Indian women as being confined to traditional roles and did not prioritize their education. They believed that women should focus on domestic duties rather than seeking education.
- Limited opportunities for women: Very few schools were established for girls, and those that existed had limited resources and opportunities. The curriculum for girls was often limited to basic literacy and domestic skills.
- Social norms and prejudices: The prevailing social norms and prejudices further hindered the progress of women's education. The perception that educated women would challenge traditional gender roles and disrupt societal norms contributed to the neglect of women's education.

Therefore, the correct statements about British policy on education in colonial India are that education became a monopoly of the upper and rich classes and there was almost total neglect of women's education. These policies had long-lasting repercussions on social mobility and gender equality in Indian society.

Explanation:

1. Moneylenders were mostly outsiders - Marwaris or Gujaratis
- The statement is correct. In the Deccan Riots, moneylenders were predominantly outsiders, often Marwaris or Gujaratis.
- These moneylenders were seen as exploiting the local peasants and farmers by charging exorbitant interest rates, leading to resentment and anger among the local population.
- This economic exploitation played a significant role in sparking the riots in the Deccan region.

2. Modern Nationalist Intelligentsia of Maharashtra opposed the peasants' cause due to the violence
- This statement is not correct. In fact, the modern nationalist intelligentsia of Maharashtra, including leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Bal Gangadhar Tilak, supported the peasants' cause during the Deccan Riots.
- They recognized the economic grievances of the peasants and farmers and advocated for their rights and better treatment.
- The nationalist leaders condemned the violence that occurred during the riots but stood in solidarity with the peasants in their struggle against economic exploitation.
In conclusion, the correct statement about the Deccan Riots is that moneylenders were mostly outsiders, while the modern nationalist intelligentsia of Maharashtra supported the peasants' cause rather than opposing it due to violence.

Regulating Act of 1773:

The Regulating Act of 1773 was passed by the British Parliament to regulate the affairs of the East India Company in India. It was the first step taken by the British Government to control the company's affairs in India.

The correct option is B, which includes the following features of the Regulating Act of 1773:

1. It designated the governor of Bengal as the Governor-General of Bengal: The Act created the office of Governor-General of Bengal and designated the governor of Bengal as the Governor-General.

2. It made the Governors of Bombay and Madras Presidencies subordinate to the governor-general of Bengal: The Act made the governors of Bombay and Madras Presidencies subordinate to the governor-general of Bengal.

3. It prohibited the servants of the company from engaging in any private trade: The Act prohibited the servants of the company from engaging in any private trade.

4. It prohibited the servants of the company from accepting presents or gifts: The Act prohibited the servants of the company from accepting presents or gifts.

5. The court of directors have to report on its revenue and civil affairs Except for Military Affairs to the British government: The Act required the court of directors of the East India Company to report annually to the British government on the company's revenue and civil affairs, except for military affairs.

Thus, option B is the correct answer, which includes features 1, 3, and 4 of the Regulating Act of 1773.

The correct answer is option 'A', which means that only statement 1 is correct. Let's understand why the other statements are incorrect:

1. It created a new office, Secretary of State for India: This statement is correct. The Government of India Act of 1858 abolished the East India Company's rule in India and transferred the powers and responsibilities to the British Crown. As a part of this transfer, a new office called the Secretary of State for India was created in the British government. The Secretary of State became the principal authority responsible for the governance of India.

2. The Secretary of State was a member of the British cabinet and was responsible only ultimately to the British cabinet: This statement is incorrect. The Secretary of State for India was indeed a member of the British cabinet, but they were not solely responsible to the British cabinet. The Secretary of State was also accountable to the British Parliament and had to report on Indian affairs to the Parliament. The Secretary of State had significant powers and authority over the governance of India.

3. It constituted the Secretary of State-in-Council as a body corporate, capable of suing and being sued only in England: This statement is incorrect. The Government of India Act of 1858 did establish the Secretary of State-in-Council as a body corporate, but this body was not limited to suing and being sued only in England. The Secretary of State-in-Council had the power to sue and be sued in both England and India. This provision allowed for legal actions against the British government or the Secretary of State-in-Council in Indian courts.

In conclusion, only statement 1 is correct as it created the office of Secretary of State for India. Statements 2 and 3 are incorrect as they misrepresent the accountability and legal jurisdiction of the Secretary of State and the Secretary of State-in-Council.

The correct answer is option 'D', neither of them.

Explanation:
1. In the house of the people, 50% of the seats were reserved for the candidates belonging to the scheduled castes: This statement is incorrect. In the first general elections held in India in 1951-52, there were no reserved seats for candidates belonging to the scheduled castes. The reservation of seats for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes was introduced later through constitutional amendments.

2. Around 20% of the seats were reserved for the candidates belonging to the scheduled tribes: This statement is also incorrect. In the first general elections, there were no reserved seats for candidates belonging to the scheduled tribes. The reservation of seats for scheduled tribes was introduced later through constitutional amendments.

Reservation of seats for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes:
The reservation of seats for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes was introduced to ensure representation and political empowerment of these marginalized communities. The Constitution of India, through various amendments, provided for the reservation of seats in both the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the State Legislative Assemblies.

Reservation in the Lok Sabha:
Currently, the reservation of seats for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes in the Lok Sabha is based on their proportion to the total population. As per the Constitution, 84 seats (out of 543) are reserved for scheduled castes and 47 seats (out of 543) are reserved for scheduled tribes. These reserved seats are distributed among different states and union territories based on their population.

Reservation in the State Legislative Assemblies:
Similar to the reservation in the Lok Sabha, the Constitution also provides for the reservation of seats for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes in the State Legislative Assemblies. The number of reserved seats varies from state to state based on the proportion of the population of these communities.

Conclusion:
In summary, neither of the statements given in the question is correct. The reservation of seats for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies was introduced through constitutional amendments after the first general elections.

Factors for the Impoverishment of the Indian Peasantry

Factors for the impoverishment of the Indian peasantry include colonial economic policies, the new land revenue system, and overcrowding of land. These factors have played a significant role in the economic and social degradation of the Indian peasantry.

1. Colonial economic policies:
Under British colonial rule, India's economy was subjugated to benefit the British Empire. The British implemented policies that exploited and drained the resources of India, resulting in the impoverishment of the Indian peasantry. These policies included:

- Drain of wealth: The British extracted enormous wealth from India through heavy taxation, trade policies, and the export of raw materials. This led to economic exploitation and hindered the development of industries and agricultural practices in India, further impoverishing the peasantry.

- Deindustrialization: The British dismantled India's indigenous industries to protect their own industries in England. This led to the collapse of many traditional Indian crafts and industries, leaving the peasantry with limited economic opportunities and forcing them to rely solely on agriculture, which further intensified their poverty.

2. The new land revenue system:
The British introduced the Permanent Settlement System, also known as the Zamindari system, in many parts of India. This system involved the fixation of land revenue, which had to be paid by the peasants to the Zamindars (landlords). This system had several negative consequences:

- Increased burden on peasants: The fixed revenue demand was often high, and the peasants were forced to pay it irrespective of their economic conditions. This led to an increased burden on the peasantry, pushing them further into poverty.

- Exploitation by Zamindars: The Zamindars, who were appointed by the British as intermediaries, exploited the peasants by extracting exorbitant rents and imposing arbitrary taxes. This further impoverished the peasantry as they were left with little to no surplus from their agricultural produce.

3. Overcrowding of land:
Due to the growing population and limited availability of land, there was overcrowding of land in rural areas. This resulted in smaller landholdings for individual farmers, leading to decreased productivity and income. Overcrowding also intensified competition for resources, further exacerbating poverty among the peasantry.

In conclusion, the impoverishment of the Indian peasantry can be attributed to factors such as colonial economic policies, the new land revenue system, and overcrowding of land. These factors, driven by British colonial rule, created a cycle of economic exploitation and social degradation, leaving the peasantry trapped in a cycle of poverty.

The correct option is B) 2, 3 and 4 only.

Explanation:

The Government of India Act of 1935 was an important constitutional development in India during the British rule. It introduced several changes in the governance of India. Let's see which statements are true about this act:

1. It abolished the Council of India and the office of the secretary of state: This statement is not true as the act did not abolish the Council of India and the office of the secretary of state. Instead, it provided for their continuance.

2. It provided separate electorates for women: This statement is true. The act provided for separate electorates for women in the provincial legislatures.

3. The provinces were allowed to act as autonomous units of administration in the defined spheres: This statement is true. The act allowed the provinces to act as autonomous units of administration in the defined spheres.

4. This Act had 10 Schedules: This statement is true. The act had 10 schedules that provided for various matters such as the distribution of powers between the centre and the provinces, provincial autonomy, and the establishment of the Federal Court.

5. It provided for the establishment of the Reserve Bank of India and a monetary policy committee to control the currency and credit of the country: This statement is not true. The Reserve Bank of India was established in 1934, a year before the Government of India Act of 1935. The act did not provide for the establishment of the RBI or a monetary policy committee.

Therefore, the correct options are 2, 3 and 4 only.

Explanation:

Formation of Agrarian League
- In May 1873, an agrarian league or combination was formed in Yusufshahi Praganah in Pabna district to oppose the demands of the zamindars.
- The league was formed to fight against the unjust practices of the zamindars and protect the rights of the tenants.

Reasons for the Unrest
- The unrest was caused by the efforts of the zamindars to inflate rent beyond legal limits.
- The zamindars also tried to prevent the tenants from acquiring occupancy rights under act X of 1859.
- The zamindars used illegal coercive methods such as forced eviction, seizure of crops and cattle, and dragging the tenants into costly litigation in the courts to achieve their goals.

Role of the Agrarian League
- The agrarian league played a crucial role in organizing the tenants and resisting the oppressive practices of the zamindars.
- They demanded fair treatment, reasonable rents, and the protection of their rights as tenants.

Conclusion
- The formation of the agrarian league and the subsequent unrest in East Bengal highlighted the struggles faced by the tenants against the exploitative practices of the zamindars.
- The agrarian unrest eventually led to the implementation of reforms to protect the rights of the tenants and regulate the relationship between landlords and tenants.

The correct answer is option 'C' - 4 Only.

The Act of 1909, also known as the Morley-Minto Reforms, was an important legislative measure passed by the British government in India. It introduced certain reforms in the Indian legislative system, aiming to address the growing demand for political representation and participation of Indians in the governance of their country. Let's analyze the given options:

1. It allowed non-official majority in the central Legislative Council: This statement is incorrect. The Act of 1909 did not allow for a non-official majority in the central Legislative Council. The British government retained control over the central legislative institutions.

2. It allowed official majority in provincial Legislative Councils: This statement is incorrect. The Act of 1909 did not provide for an official majority in provincial Legislative Councils. The British government continued to have a significant influence over the provincial legislative bodies.

3. It provided for the first time, for the association of Indians with the legislative councils of viceroys and governors: This statement is correct. The Act of 1909 introduced the concept of "association" by allowing for the nomination of Indians to the legislative councils of viceroys and governors. Although the Indians were in the minority, this marked the beginning of their representation in these councils.

4. It also provided for the separate representation of zamindars: This statement is correct. The Act of 1909 introduced separate electorates for various communities, including zamindars. This allowed the zamindars to have their own representatives in the legislative councils.

5. It increased the function of Legislative councils and gave them the power of discussing the budget. But they were not allowed to ask supplementary questions and move resolutions on the budget: This statement is incorrect. The Act of 1909 did increase the function of the legislative councils and gave them the power to discuss the budget. However, they were also allowed to ask supplementary questions and move resolutions on the budget. This was an important step towards greater legislative control over financial matters.

In conclusion, the correct statements about the Act of 1909 are:

- It provided for the first time, for the association of Indians with the legislative councils of viceroys and governors (Statement 3).
- It also provided for the separate representation of zamindars (Statement 4).

The correct answer is option 'D': 2 Only.

Explanation:
1. Fort William College - Warren Hastings: This is an incorrect match. Fort William College was established in 1800 by Marquess Wellesley, not Warren Hastings. It was set up to train British civil servants in the languages and cultures of India. Warren Hastings was the first Governor-General of Bengal during the period of 1774-1785. He is known for his administrative reforms and for establishing the Calcutta Madrasah.

2. Sanskrit College - Jonathan Duncan: This is also an incorrect match. The Sanskrit College in Calcutta was established by Sir William Jones in 1781, not Jonathan Duncan. Sir William Jones was a British philologist and scholar of ancient India who is known for his contributions to the study of Sanskrit and Indian literature.

3. Calcutta Madrasah - Wellesley: This is the correct match. The Calcutta Madrasah was established in 1781 by Warren Hastings, not Wellesley. It was the first Islamic seminary in Calcutta and played a significant role in the promotion of Islamic education and culture in Bengal.

To summarize:
- Fort William College was established by Marquess Wellesley, not Warren Hastings.
- The Sanskrit College was established by Sir William Jones, not Jonathan Duncan.
- The Calcutta Madrasah was established by Warren Hastings, not Wellesley.

Therefore, the correct match is option 'D': 2 Only.

Answer:

The correct chronological arrangement of the given events is option 'B': 1-3-2-4. To understand this sequence, let's examine each event in detail.

1. Lord Macaulay's Minute:
Lord Macaulay's Minute refers to a historical event that took place in 1835. In this event, Lord Macaulay, who was a British colonial administrator, drafted a document known as the "Minute on Indian Education." This document outlined the British policy for education in India. Lord Macaulay's intention was to create a class of English-educated Indians who would serve as intermediaries between the British administration and the Indian population. This event marked a significant shift in the British approach to Indian education and had long-lasting effects on the Indian education system.

2. Woods Dispatch:
The Woods Dispatch is the next event in chronological order, which occurred in 1854. It was a landmark moment in the history of education in India. The Dispatch was drafted by Sir Charles Wood, the President of the Board of Control for India. It laid down the foundation for the modern education system in India. The Woods Dispatch emphasized the importance of education, especially in English, for the social, economic, and political development of India. It proposed the establishment of a systematic and uniform educational system throughout the country. The Dispatch also advocated for the inclusion of vernacular languages in education and the promotion of female education. It led to the expansion of educational institutions and the spread of English education in India.

3. Hunter Education Commission:
The Hunter Education Commission is the third event in chronological order, which took place in 1882. The Commission was established under the chairmanship of Sir William Wilson Hunter. Its purpose was to examine the state of education in India and make recommendations for its improvement. The Commission conducted an extensive survey of educational institutions and published a comprehensive report known as the "Hunter Commission Report." This report highlighted various issues in the Indian education system, including the lack of adequate funding, the need for trained teachers, and the necessity of educational reforms. The recommendations made by the Commission played a crucial role in shaping the future of education in India.

4. Saddler University Commission:
The final event in the sequence is the Saddler University Commission, which occurred in 1917. The Commission was led by Sir Michael Sadler and was established to review the state of universities in India. The Commission's report, known as the "Sadler Report," addressed several important aspects of university education, including governance, curriculum, examinations, and funding. The report emphasized the need for academic freedom, student participation, and research-oriented education in universities. It also recommended the establishment of affiliating universities and the improvement of teaching standards. The recommendations of the Sadler Commission had a significant impact on the development of higher education in India.

In conclusion, the correct chronological arrangement of the given events is 1-3-2-4, which corresponds to Lord Macaulay's Minute, Woods Dispatch, Hunter Education Commission, and Saddler University Commission, respectively.

Overview of the Newspaper 'Gujarati'
The newspaper 'Gujarati' holds a significant place in the history of Indian journalism. It was one of the earliest newspapers in the Gujarati language and played a crucial role in the socio-political landscape of India during the 19th century.
Foundation Location
- The newspaper 'Gujarati' was started in Bombay (now Mumbai).
- Founded in November 1850, it aimed to cater to the growing Gujarati-speaking population.
Historical Context
- The emergence of 'Gujarati' coincided with the period of social reform and awakening in India.
- It was established during the British Raj, a time when newspapers were becoming a vital medium for communication and expression.
Impact on Society
- 'Gujarati' focused on educating the masses about social issues, politics, and cultural matters.
- It played a pivotal role in promoting the Gujarati language and literature.
Significance in Journalism
- The newspaper set a precedent for future publications in regional languages.
- It contributed to the rise of journalism as a profession and encouraged the establishment of more vernacular newspapers across India.
In summary, the 'Gujarati' newspaper's inception in Bombay marked the beginning of a significant movement in regional journalism, influencing many aspects of Gujarati culture and society.

High Rents:
- Peasants faced the issue of high rents imposed on them by landlords, making it difficult for them to afford their living expenses.
- These high rents often left peasants with little to no savings, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and debt.

Oppression of Thikadars:
- Thikadars were in charge of revenue collection and often oppressed peasants by extracting excessive taxes and fines from them.
- Peasants were subjected to unfair treatment and exploitation by thikadars, leading to further financial burdens on them.

Practice of Share Rents:
- Peasants were required to pay a share of their produce as rent to landlords, which often left them with insufficient resources to meet their own needs.
- This unfair practice of share rents further exacerbated the economic challenges faced by peasants, trapping them in a cycle of poverty.
Overall, the issues of high rents, oppression by thikadars, and the practice of share rents collectively contributed to the hardships faced by peasants during the Eka Movement. Addressing these issues was crucial for improving the living conditions and livelihoods of the peasants involved in the movement.

Having decided to side with the reactionary elements of Indian society, the British withdrew support to social reforms, which they felt had aroused the wrath of orthodox sections against them. Also, by encouraging caste and communal consciousness, the British helped the reactionary forces.