The Governor General of Bengal who introduced the Permanent Settlement...
Introduction to the Permanent Settlement
The Permanent Settlement was a significant land revenue system introduced in India during the British colonial period. It was established by Lord Cornwallis in 1793 while he served as the Governor General of Bengal.
Key Aspects of the Permanent Settlement
- Objective: The main aim was to create a stable revenue system by fixing land revenue assessments permanently. This meant that the revenue demand would not change, providing security to the landlords (zamindars).
- Implementation: Under this system, the zamindars were recognized as the owners of the land, and they were responsible for collecting taxes from the peasants. They paid a fixed sum to the British government, regardless of agricultural conditions.
- Impact on Agriculture: The Permanent Settlement aimed to encourage agricultural investment and improve productivity. However, it often led to exploitation of peasants, as zamindars prioritized their profits over the welfare of the farmers.
Significance of Lord Cornwallis
- Background: Lord Cornwallis served as Governor General from 1786 to 1793. His tenure marked a shift in British administrative policies in India.
- Legacy: The Permanent Settlement is considered a pivotal moment in British land revenue policies. It laid the groundwork for future land reforms and revenue systems across India.
- Criticism: While it created a class of landowners, it also contributed to the impoverishment of tenants and instability in agricultural productivity, leading to long-term socio-economic issues.
In conclusion, Lord Cornwallis's introduction of the Permanent Settlement in 1793 was a landmark decision that significantly influenced India's agrarian structure and colonial economy.
The Governor General of Bengal who introduced the Permanent Settlement...
Lord Cornwallis proposed the Permanent Settlement system in 1786. This came into effect in 1793, by the Permanent Settlement Act of 1793.