Where did Warren Hastings establish a Board of Revenue to supervise th...
Answer:
Warren Hastings, the first Governor-General of Bengal, established a Board of Revenue in Calcutta to supervise the organization of revenue collection in the region. This move was a part of his administrative reforms aimed at improving the efficiency and accountability of the revenue administration system.
Background:
During the British East India Company's rule in India, the collection of revenue was a crucial aspect of governance. The revenue collected from the territories under British control was a major source of income for the Company. However, the existing revenue administration system was inefficient, corrupt, and lacked oversight. To address these issues, Warren Hastings introduced several reforms, including the establishment of the Board of Revenue.
Establishment of the Board of Revenue:
1. Location: Warren Hastings established the Board of Revenue in Calcutta. Calcutta was the capital of British India at that time and served as the administrative center for the East India Company's operations in the region.
2. Purpose: The primary purpose of the Board of Revenue was to supervise and streamline the entire revenue collection process. It aimed to bring transparency, efficiency, and accountability to the revenue administration system.
3. Functions: The Board of Revenue was responsible for various functions, including:
- Overseeing the assessment and collection of land revenue.
- Ensuring fair and just taxation policies.
- Monitoring the activities of revenue officials to prevent corruption and malpractice.
- Settling disputes related to revenue collection.
- Implementing measures to improve agricultural productivity and increase revenue.
4. Composition: The Board of Revenue consisted of a Governor-General, a Chief Justice, and a Member of the Council. They were responsible for formulating policies, issuing directives, and supervising the revenue administration activities.
5. Impact: The establishment of the Board of Revenue brought significant improvements to the revenue administration system. It introduced standardization and uniformity in revenue collection practices, reduced corruption, and increased accountability. The revenue collected under the supervision of the Board of Revenue contributed to the Company's financial stability and further expansion of its territories in India.
In conclusion, Warren Hastings established a Board of Revenue in Calcutta to supervise the organization of revenue collection. This administrative reform was crucial in improving the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of the revenue administration system during the British East India Company's rule in India.