UPSC Static Quiz – History : 13 December 2024

Solution: a)

After the Revolt of 1857, significant changes were made in the governance of India. The administration was transferred from the East India Company to the British Crown through the Government of India Act 1858. This marked the end of Company rule. Hence, Statement 1 is correct.

The British abolished the policy of annexation and the Doctrine of Lapse to appease the Indian princes and prevent future rebellions. They assured the princes that their territories would be respected. Therefore, Statement 2 is correct.

Despite some reforms, Indian soldiers were not allowed to hold higher ranks on par with British soldiers. Racial discrimination in the army continued, and key positions were reserved for the British. Thus, Statement 3 is incorrect.

The British adopted a policy of non-interference in social and religious matters to avoid antagonizing Indians further. They became more cautious about initiating social reforms that could provoke resistance. Therefore, Statement 4 is correct.

Solution: d)

The Permanent Settlement was introduced by Lord Cornwallis in 1793 and was prevalent in regions like Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, and parts of Uttar Pradesh. Under this system, zamindars were recognized as the hereditary owners of the land. They were responsible for collecting land revenue from the peasants and were allowed to keep 1/11th of the revenue collected, while 10/11th had to be submitted to the East India Company.

Solution: b)

The Ryotwari System was introduced in the early 19th century, primarily in the Madras Presidency, by Thomas Munro and Captain Reed. This system recognized the ryots (peasants) as the owners of the land. The government collected revenue directly from the ryots, eliminating the role of intermediaries like zamindars.

Statement 3 is incorrect. Unlike the Permanent Settlement, the Ryotwari System did not fix the land revenue permanently. The revenue was subject to periodic revision based on assessments of the land’s productivity.

Solution: a)

Famines in India became more frequent and severe during the latter half of the 19th century, with notable ones occurring in 1860-61, 1865-66, 1876-78, and 1899-1900.

The British government lacked comprehensive data on population distribution, agricultural production, and existing food stocks, which hindered effective famine relief measures.

The high land revenue demands imposed by the British left peasants impoverished, with little surplus to fall back on during times of crop failure, exacerbating the impact of famines.

Solution: c)

The Government of India Act 1858 established the position of the Secretary of State for India, a British Cabinet member responsible for Indian affairs. To assist the Secretary, the Council of India was formed, consisting of 15 members. This council was advisory in nature, with the Secretary holding the initiative and final decision-making power.