Main Features of the Permanent Settlement:

The Permanent Settlement, also known as the Zamindari System, was introduced by Lord Cornwallis in 1793 as a result of the Bengal Tenancy Act. It aimed to regularize the revenue system in British India and establish a fixed land revenue system. Here are the main features of the Permanent Settlement:

1. Zamindars:
Under the Permanent Settlement, the Zamindars were recognized as the owners of the land. They were given the hereditary rights to collect revenue from the peasants in their respective areas. The British considered them as intermediaries between themselves and the peasants.

2. Fixed Land Revenue:
One of the key features of the Permanent Settlement was the fixation of land revenue. The Zamindars were required to pay a fixed amount of revenue to the British government, which was determined after a survey of the land. This fixed revenue remained unchanged for a specified period, usually for a period of ten years.

3. Enhancing Agricultural Production:
The British government expected the Zamindars to invest in the improvement of agriculture and increase production on their lands. They were encouraged to introduce modern farming techniques, improve irrigation systems, and cultivate cash crops like indigo, sugarcane, and opium.

4. Permanent Rights:
The Permanent Settlement granted the Zamindars with hereditary rights over the land. They had the authority to transfer, sell, or mortgage their land as they pleased. This stability in land ownership encouraged them to invest in the land and undertake long-term agricultural projects.

5. Absence of Revision:
During the period of the Permanent Settlement, the revenue fixed for the Zamindars remained unchanged. There was no provision for revision or reassessment of the land revenue. This lack of revision led to exploitation and oppression of the peasants, as the Zamindars often increased the revenue demand.

6. Impact on Peasants:
The Permanent Settlement had a significant impact on the peasants. They were burdened with high revenue demands and faced the risk of eviction if they failed to pay. Many peasants lost their land due to the oppressive practices of the Zamindars. This resulted in widespread poverty and indebtedness among the rural population.

Overall, the Permanent Settlement aimed to stabilize the revenue system and promote agricultural development. However, it had several negative consequences for the peasants and led to the concentration of power and wealth in the hands of the Zamindars.