The correct answer is option 'A': The Strachey Commission and Woodhead Commission were appointed to suggest preventive measures for famine relief.

The Strachey Commission and Woodhead Commission were both appointed in the context of colonial history in India during British rule. These commissions were established with the aim of addressing the issue of famines and suggesting preventive measures for famine relief.

1. Strachey Commission:
The Strachey Commission, officially known as the Famine Commission, was appointed in 1878 by the British government in response to the devastating famine that occurred in India between 1876 and 1878. The commission was named after its chairman, Sir Richard Strachey, and its objective was to investigate the causes of the famine and recommend measures to prevent future famines.

The Strachey Commission conducted a thorough study of the famine, examining various aspects such as agriculture, irrigation, taxation policies, relief measures, and administrative arrangements. They identified several factors that contributed to the famine, including poor agricultural practices, inadequate irrigation systems, excessive taxation, and lack of effective relief measures.

Based on their findings, the Strachey Commission made several recommendations to prevent future famines. They emphasized the need for improved irrigation systems, scientific agricultural practices, reduction of land taxes during times of distress, establishment of granaries and storage facilities, and the creation of a centralized famine relief organization. These recommendations aimed to enhance agricultural productivity, ensure food security, and provide timely relief to affected regions in the event of a famine.

2. Woodhead Commission:
The Woodhead Commission, officially known as the Indian Famine Enquiry Committee, was appointed in 1944 by the British government to review the famine situation in India during World War II. The commission was chaired by Sir Frederick Johnstone Woodhead.

The Woodhead Commission examined the causes and consequences of the Bengal Famine of 1943, which resulted in the deaths of millions of people due to food shortages. The commission's objective was to assess the effectiveness of relief measures implemented during the famine and suggest measures to prevent future famines.

The Woodhead Commission recommended a series of preventive measures to address the root causes of famines. They emphasized the importance of improving agricultural practices, increasing agricultural productivity, enhancing irrigation facilities, implementing land reforms, and providing social security measures to vulnerable sections of society. The commission also stressed the need for effective administrative mechanisms, including early warning systems and efficient relief operations, to mitigate the impact of famines.

In conclusion, both the Strachey Commission and Woodhead Commission were appointed in the context of colonial history to address the issue of famines in India. These commissions conducted detailed investigations, identified the causes of famines, and recommended preventive measures to ensure food security and provide timely relief in times of distress.