Cheat Sheet: Development of Education | History for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Introduction

During the period of Company Rule and subsequent Crown control, the landscape of education in India witnessed significant developments influenced by the evolving priorities of the British colonial administration. This chronology document aims to outline key milestones in the history of education in colonial India, highlighting the establishment of educational institutions, policy shifts, and the impact on vernacular, technical, and traditional forms of education.

Company Rule Era

Under Company Rule, educational institutions were established with a focus on Muslim and Hindu law, reflecting the administration's interest in traditional knowledge.

Charter Act of 1813 and Enlightened Efforts

The Charter Act of 1813 marked a shift towards English education, with institutions like Calcutta College receiving grants to impart education in Western humanities and sciences.

Orientalist-Anglicist Controversy

The debate between Orientalists and Anglicists shaped the educational policy, aiming to create a class with Indian roots but English tastes and intellect.

Wood's Despatch (1854)

Wood's Despatch formalized the education system, emphasizing English in higher studies, female and vocational education, and grants-in-aid for private initiatives.

Hunter Education Commission and Indian Universities Act (1904)

The Hunter Commission emphasized primary education, vocational courses, and stricter regulations for private colleges, leading to the Indian Universities Act of 1904.

Post-Crown Control Era and Hartog Committee (1929)

Post Crown control, the Hartog Committee recommended reforms in primary and high school education, and the Sergeant Plan laid out comprehensive guidelines for educational development.

Development of Vernacular Education

Vernacular education saw increased attention with government reports, experiments, and policy provisions, aiming at mass education through native languages.

Development of Technical Education

Technical education began with the establishment of engineering colleges, addressing the need for skilled individuals in various fields.

Conclusion

The chronology above reflects the dynamic evolution of education in colonial India, shaped by debates, commissions, and policy changes. The British administration's focus on specific forms of education mirrored their objectives, leading to lasting impacts on the Indian education system. Despite challenges, these historical developments laid the foundation for the diverse educational landscape in contemporary India.