Table of contents | |
Introduction | |
Evolution of Indian Administration during British Rule | |
Government of India Act, 1919, and 1935 | |
Indianization of Administration |
The East India Company's Ascendancy: The East India Company initially arrived in India for trade purposes but gradually assumed control of the country's governance. The company capitalized on the disintegration of the Mughal Empire after the death of Aurangzeb in 1707, establishing its influence over various regions. The decisive Battle of Plassey in 1757 cemented the company's authority. In 1765, the company acquired the Diwani rights of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa, maintaining the administrative structure inherited from the Mughals.
The Government of India Act of 1919 introduced the concept of dyarchy, dividing the subjects of administration into reserved and transferred categories. It also expanded the central and provincial legislatures, allowing for greater representation. However, real power remained with the British authorities. The Government of India Act of 1935 introduced provincial autonomy, creating a federation with autonomous provinces and direct elections. Although the Act fell short of full self-government, it provided a framework for political developments leading to independence.
Post-independence, India adopted a democratic system of governance while preserving certain aspects of the British legacy. The parliamentary form of government, federal structure, independent judiciary, civil services, district and regional administration, rule of law, and local self-government continue to be fundamental features of the Indian administrative system. The country has gradually expanded its administrative machinery, providing opportunities for the representation and participation of diverse sections of society.
The British rule in India left a profound impact on the administrative and political systems of the country. The evolution of Indian administration during this period transformed the traditional structures, introducing new administrative mechanisms and policies. The legacy of British governance continues to shape India's administrative landscape, as many institutions and practices established during this era persist today. Understanding the historical evolution of Indian administration is crucial for comprehending the complexities and dynamics of the present-day administrative system in India.
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