Governor/Governor General/Viceroy is part of Modern History of India. Below are notes on 14 sub-topics, followed by practice MCQs from State PSC and UPSC papers.

Controversies and criticisms surrounding their rule

  • Warren Hastings: Impeached by the British Parliament (1788-1795) on charges of corruption and administrative excesses; later acquitted.
  • Lord Lytton (1876-1880):
    • Vernacular Press Act (1878): Suppressed Indian language newspapers, aimed at controlling dissent.
    • Arms Act (1878): Made it a criminal offence for Indians to carry arms without a license, while Europeans were exempt.
    • Reduction of age limit for Civil Services: Reduced from 21 to 19 years (1878), making it harder for Indian aspirants.
    • Second Anglo-Afghan War (1878-1880): Costly and controversial.
  • Lord Ripon (1880-1884):
    • Ilbert Bill Controversy (1883):
      • Proposed bill allowed Indian magistrates/judges to try Europeans in criminal cases.
      • Triggered strong opposition from European community in India ("White Mutiny"), citing racial prejudice.
      • Caused significant racial cleavage in India before the formation of the Indian National Congress.
      • The bill was eventually modified, diluting its original intent by allowing Europeans to de‐
  • Foreign Policy:
    • Established embassies in foreign countries (e.g., France, Turkey, Afghanistan, Arabia, Persia) on modern lines.
    • Sought alliance with France against the British.
    • Closely associated with the French.

mand a jury with a majority of European members.

      • Related to racial discrimination in the judiciary.
  • Lord Curzon (1899-1905):
    • G.K. Gokhale compared Curzon's administration in India to that of Aurangzeb due to his autocratic style and controversial policies (e.g., Partition of Bengal).
  • Chronology of Events:
    • Acquisition of Awadh by the British: 1856
    • Indigo Revolt: 1859-60
    • Second Anglo-Afghan War: 1878-1880
    • Ilbert Bill Controversy: 1883

Economic policies and their impact on India

  • Lord Cornwallis (1786-1793): Export of slaves from Bengal banned in 1789.
  • Lord Wellesley (1798-1805): Introduced Subsidiary Alliance System; Nizam of Hyderabad (Asaf Jah II) was the first Indian ruler to accept it (1798).
  • Lord Dalhousie (1848-1856): Known as the "Father of Indian Railways"; first railway line from Bombay to Thane opened in 1853.

Evolution of the titles: Governor, Governor-General of Bengal, Governor-General of India, Viceroy

Governor of Bengal: Initial title for the head 1. of British East India Company's Presidency in Bengal.

    • First Governor of Bengal: Robert Clive (post-Battle of Plassey). Governor-General of Bengal (Presidency of 2. Fort William):
    • Created by the Regulating Act of 1773.
    • Elevated the Governor of Bengal to this position, with supervisory powers over Bombay and Madras Presidencies.
    • First Governor-General of Bengal: Warren Hastings.
    • Lord Cornwallis also served as Governor-General of Bengal. Governor-General of India: 3.
    • Created by the Charter Act of 1833.
    • Elevated the Governor-General of Bengal to this position, centralizing administration over entire British India.
    • First Governor-General of India: Lord William Bentinck.
    • Lord Dalhousie also served as Governor-General of India.
    • Last Governor-General of India (under East India Company rule): Lord Canning. Viceroy: 4.
    • Government of India Act 1858 transferred governance from the East India Company to the British Crown.
    • The existing Governor-General of India was simultaneously designated as the Viceroy of India (representing the British Crown).
    • First Viceroy of India: Lord Canning (who was also the last Governor-General of India under EIC).
    • Lord Minto held the title of GovernorGeneral and Viceroy of India.
    • The Government of India Act, 1935, restated the dual role, often referred to as Governor-General and Crown Representative. Lord Wavell held this title.
    • Lord Mountbatten was the last Viceroy (and first Governor-General of independent India). Key Date: British Government took India 5. under its direct control from the East India Company in 1858 A.D.

Impact on Indian nationalism and freedom struggle

  • Lord Dufferin (Viceroy 1884-1888): Indian National Congress (INC) was established in 1885 during his tenure.
  • Lord Dufferin: Ridiculed INC as representing only a 'microscopic minority' of people.
  • Lord Curzon (Viceroy 1899-1905): Stated, "Congress is tottering to its fall and one of my great ambitions while in India is to assist it to a peaceful demise."
  • Lord Linlithgow (Viceroy 1936-1943): Called Gandhiji's movements 'political blackmail'.
  • Surendranath Banerji: Was dismissed by the British from the Indian Civil Service (ICS).
  • Charter Act of 1833: Created the post of Fourth (Law) Member in the GovernorGeneral's Council.
  • Lord Macaulay: First Law Member of the Governor-General's Council (appointed under Charter Act of 1833). Chaired the First Law Commission (1835) which drafted the Indian Penal Code.
  • Lord Canning (1856-1862):
    • Indian Penal Code (IPC) enacted in 1860.
    • Code of Civil Procedure (CPC) enacted in 1859.
    • Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) enacted in 1861.
    • Establishment of High Courts in Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras in 1862, under the Indian High Courts Act of 1861.

Key administrative reforms and policies

  • Lord Cornwallis:
    • Judicial reforms (Cornwallis Code).
    • Revenue reforms (Permanent Settlement, Bengal, 1793).
    • Commercial reforms.
    • Did not focus on educational reforms.
  • Lord Wellesley:
    • Subsidiary Alliance System: States lost external sovereignty (could not enter agreements/warfare independently), British protected them, British contingent stationed in ally's territory, ally paid for contingent.
    • Fort William College (Calcutta, 1800): Established to train British civilians for administrative purposes in India.
  • Lord William Bentinck: Suppression of Thugs (with Captain Sleeman).
  • Lord Dalhousie:
    • Public Works Department (PWD) organized (1845-1855).
    • Doctrine of Lapse.
    • Annexed Awadh (Oudh) in 1856 on grounds of maladministration. Stated in 1851 that Awadh was "a cherry that will drop into our mouth one day."
    • Postal stamps introduced (1854).
  • Lord Canning: Budgeting system introduced.
  • Lord Mayo:
    • Financial Decentralisation (Resolution of 1870): First step to bifurcate Central & Provincial finances, empowered Provincial Governments to administer certain services, aimed to rectify existing disparity, and focused on actual needs of Provinces.
    • First All India Census attempted (1872).
  • Lord Lytton: Followed a spirited "Forward" policy towards Afghanistan.
  • Lord Ripon:
    • Local Self-Government (1882).
    • Factories Act, 1881 (for the well-being of workers).
    • First regular Census (1881).
  • Lord Curzon:
    • Established Imperial Cadet Corps.
    • Calcutta Corporation Act, 1899: Reduced the strength of elected members.
    • Police Commission (1902, Fraser Commission).
    • Famine Commission (1901, Anthony Macdonnell Commission).
    • Irrigation Commission (1901, Scott Moncrieff Commission).
    • Department of Commerce and Industry created (1904).
  • Henry Ramsay (Commissioner of Kumaon/Hills): Banned the purchase and sale of human beings; instrumental in preventing destruction of forests.
  • David Scott: Retained the post of Barphukan for civil administration (1824-1831).
  • Almora: Became the administrative centre of Kumaun and Garhwal after British occupation in 1815.
  • Bhore Committee (1943): Appointed to survey the state of public health.

Military expansion and consolidation of British rule

The British policy towards India during 1. 1765-1813 is known as the Policy of Ring Fence, aimed at protecting the Company's frontiers by forming buffer zones with neighboring states (associated with Warren Hastings). Lord Lytton (1876-1880) pursued an aggress2. ive 'Forward Policy' towards Afghanistan, leading to the Second Anglo-Afghan War (1878-1880). Sindh was conquered and annexed by Gener3. al Charles Napier in 1843 during the Governor-Generalship of Lord Ellenborough (1842-1844). Simla was developed as a hill station and 4. strategic place for billeting troops and launching campaigns during the AngloGurkha War (1814-1816). The Treaty of Sugauli was signed in 1815 5. and ratified in 1816, formally ending the Anglo-Gurkha War. Key Treaties and their Years: 6.

    • Treaty of Allahabad: 1765 (after Battle of Buxar).
    • Treaty of Madras: 1769 (ending First Anglo-Mysore War).
    • Treaty of Salbai: 1782 (ending First Anglo-Maratha War).
    • Treaty of Mangalore: 1784 (ending Second Anglo-Mysore War). Major Wars and their start Years: 7.
    • First Anglo-Maratha War: 1775.
    • Second Anglo-Mysore War: 1780.
    • First Anglo-Burmese War: 1824.
    • First Anglo-Afghan War: 1838. The last major extension of British Indian 8. territory took place during the time of Lord Dalhousie (1848-1856), primarily through the Doctrine of Lapse and the annexation of Punjab and Lower Burma. The British occupied Delhi in 1803 following 9. the Battle of Delhi during the Second AngloMaratha War. Odisha was formally annexed into the British 10. empire in 1803 during Lord Wellesley's tenure (1798-1805), as part of the Second Anglo-Maratha War. Match of Governor-Generals/Commanders 11. with Wars/Events:
    • Lord Wellesley: Fourth Anglo-Mysore War (1799).
    • Lord Cornwallis: Third Anglo-Mysore War (1790-92).
    • Lord Hardinge: First Anglo-Sikh War (1845-46).
    • Hector Munro: Battle of Buxar (1764).
    • Lord Hastings: Pindari War / Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817-1818).
    • Lord Dalhousie: Second Anglo-Sikh War (1848-49).
    • Lord Auckland: First Anglo-Afghan War (1839-1842). Lord Henry Hardinge (1844-1848) started 12. modernization of military apparatus, including the introduction of the Enfield rifle. The Doctrine of Lapse, introduced by Lord 13. Dalhousie, had the objective of annexing Indian kingdoms into the British Empire if a ruler died without a natural male heir. The Subsidiary Alliance system was intro14. duced by Lord Wellesley. Hyderabad was the first state to accept it in 1798. Bengal, being a directly administered British territory, did not accept it.

Relation with princely states and policy of paramountcy

  • Lord Hastings (GG, 1813-1823) initiated the Policy of Paramountcy, discarding the policy of non-intervention.
  • Lord Hastings' policy to establish English supremacy included:
    • Bringing the Marathas under Company control (Third Anglo-Maratha War).
    • Bringing small Princely States under British protection.
    • Suppressing the Pindaris.
  • The Treaty of Bassein (December 31, 1802) was concluded between the British (Lord Wellesley) and Peshwa Baji Rao II.
  • Lord Auckland (GG, 1836-1842) believed in 1836 that Russian designs were 'an imminent peril to the security and tranquility' of the Indian Empire.
  • British policy towards Afghanistan in the first half of the 19th century aimed at weakening Russian influence and establishing Afghanistan as a buffer state under British influence.
  • Lord Hardinge II (Viceroy, 1910-1916) described the Indian princes as helpers and colleagues in the task of Imperial rule.
  • The Treaty of Amritsar (April 25, 1809) was signed between Charles Metcalfe (British) and Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
  • Results of the Treaty of Amritsar (1809):
    • The Sutlej River was fixed as the boundary between British and Sikh territories.
    • Ranjit Singh was given freedom to expand into regions across the Sutlej (north and west).
    • Subsequently, Ranjit Singh conquered Multan, Kashmir, and Peshawar.
  • In 1856 (or 1845), the headquarters of the Agent to the Governor-General (AGG) for Rajputana was changed from Ajmer to Mount Abu.
  • Colonel Eden was appointed President of the Resident Council when Ganga Singh, a minor, ascended the throne of Bikaner State.
  • Colonel James Tod concluded the treaty with Sirohi State in 1823.
  • Satara (1848) was the first state annexed under the Doctrine of Lapse (Lord Dalhousie).

Role in socio-religious reforms and educational development

  • Lord William Bentinck (Governor-General, 1828-1835):
    • Abolished Sati system (Regulation XVII of 1829), declaring it illegal.
    • Successfully suppressed the organized bands of Thugs (1830), aided by Colonel William Sleeman.
  • Lord Ellenborough (Governor-General, 1842-1844):
    • Abolished slavery in India through the Indian Slavery Act of 1843.
  • Lord Curzon (Viceroy, 1899-1905):
    • Appointed the Indian Universities Commission in 1902.
    • Sir Thomas Raleigh was the Chairman of the Indian Universities Commission.
  • James Tod:
    • British officer who put pressure on Rao Raja Bishan Singh of Bundi, contributing to an atmosphere against the Sati system.

Role of the Executive Council and Legislative Council

  • Regulating Act 1773: Governor-General of Bengal assisted by a 4-member Executive Council; GG had casting vote. No separate Legislative Council.
  • Pitt's India Act 1784: Executive Council reduced to 3 members, strengthening GG's position.
  • Charter Act 1833: Governor-General of India. Centralized legislative powers. Law Member (initially without vote) added to GG's Executive Council for legislative purposes.
  • Charter Act 1853: Separated legislative and executive functions of GG's Council. Established a distinct 12-member Indian Legislative Council (acting as a 'mini-parliament').
  • Indian Councils Act 1861: Expanded Legislative Councils at Centre (6-12 additional nominated members, half non-official, including some Indians). Restored legislative powers to Bombay & Madras Presidencies. GG retained veto and ordinance powers.
  • Indian Councils Act 1892: Increased size of legislative councils. Introduced indirect election for some non-official members. Councils could discuss budget (not vote), ask questions (no supplementary).
  • Indian Councils Act 1909 (Morley-Minto Reforms): Significantly enlarged legislative councils. Introduced direct election for some seats and separate electorates for Muslims. Councils could discuss budget, pass resolutions, ask supplementary questions. First Indian (S.P. Sinha) appointed to Viceroy's Executive Council.
  • Government of India Act 1919 (MontaguChelmsford Reforms): Established a Bicameral Central Legislature (Legislative Assembly & Council of State). Introduced Diarchy in provinces (Transferred & Reserved subjects) with Provincial Legislative Councils. Viceroy's Executive Council included 3 Indians (out of 8), but remained responsible to Viceroy, not the legislature.
  • Government of India Act 1935: Proposed AllIndia Federation (not implemented). Introduced Provincial Autonomy: Diarchy abolished in provinces, with elected provincial ministers responsible to provincial legislatures. Proposed Diarchy at Center (Reserved for Viceroy/Executive Council, Transferred for ministers). Viceroy retained extensive discretionary and individual judgment powers.

Significant Governor-Generals pre-1857 and their contributions (e.g., Warren Hastings, Cornwallis, Wellesley, Bentinck, Dalhousie)

Robert Clive (Governor of Bengal 1757-60, 1. 1765-67):

    • Introduced Dual Government in Bengal (1765).
    • Regarded by some as the real founder of British rule in India. Warren Hastings (Governor of Bengal 2. 1772-74; First Governor-General of Bengal 1774-85):
    • Abolished Dual Government in Bengal (1772).
    • Implemented 'Ring Fence' policy.
    • First Anglo-Maratha War (1775-82).
    • Established the Amini Commission (1776) for land revenue information.
    • Early postal reforms, establishing General Post Office in Calcutta (1774) and opening services to the public.
    • Asiatic Society of Bengal founded (1784) by Sir William Jones, with Hastings' encouragement for Oriental studies.
    • Underwent impeachment proceedings in British Parliament.
    • His four councillors at appointment were Richard Barwell, Clavering, Philip Francis, and Monson. Sir John Macpherson (Acting Governor3. General 1785-86). Lord Cornwallis (Governor-General 1786-93, 4. 1805):
    • Father of Civil Services in India (introduced and reformed Civil Services/ ICS).
    • Introduced Permanent Settlement of Bengal (1793) (also known as Zamindari System, associated with 'Sunset Law').
    • Judicial reforms, including the Cornwallis Code (1793), separating revenue and justice administration.
    • Initiated the use of vernacular languages in courts, moving away from exclusive Persian use.
    • Third Anglo-Mysore War (1790-92) ended by Treaty of Seringapatam.
    • His tomb is in Ghazipur.
    • Port Cornwallis was the original name of Port Blair. Sir John Shore (Governor-General 1793-98): 5.
    • Followed a policy of neutrality and non-intervention (e.g., during MarathaNizam conflict). Sir Alured Clarke (Acting Governor-General 6. 1798). Lord Wellesley (Earl of Mornington) (Gov7. ernor-General 1798-1805):
    • Introduced the Subsidiary Alliance System (1798).
      • Features: British responsible for external protection; British contingent stationed (ally provided resources); ally needed British permission for agreements with other rulers.
      • Nizam of Hyderabad was the first native ruler to accept (1798).
    • Fourth Anglo-Mysore War (1799) – Tipu Sultan killed.
    • Second Anglo-Maratha War (1803-05).
    • Established College of Fort William in Calcutta (1800) for training civil servants.
    • Known for aggressive expansionist policies, keeping British influence strong during Napoleonic Wars. Sir George Barlow (Acting Governor8. General 1805-07):
    • Vellore Mutiny (1806). Lord Minto I (Governor-General 1807-13). 9. Lord Hastings (Francis Rawdon-Hastings) 10. (Governor-General 1813-23):
    • Anglo-Nepal War (British-Gorkha War 1814-16) leading to the Treaty of Sugauli (1816), signed by Lt. Col. Paris Bradshaw for EIC.
    • Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817-18) leading to the abolition of Peshwaship (1818).
    • Treaty of Poona (1817).
    • Suppression of Pindaris. Sir Thomas Munro (Governor of Madras 11. 1820-27). Lord Amherst (Governor-General 1823-28): 12.
    • First Anglo-Burmese War (1824-26) concluded by Treaty of Yandabo (1826). Lord William Bentinck (Governor-General of 13. Bengal 1828-33; First Governor-General of India 1833-35):
    • Abolition of Sati (1829) with efforts from Raja Ram Mohan Roy.
    • Suppression of Thuggee.
    • English Education Act (1835), based on Macaulay's Minute.
    • Replaced Persian with English in higher courts and vernaculars in lower courts. Lord Auckland (Governor-General 1836-42): 14.
    • First Afghan War (1838-42). Lord Ellenborough (Governor-General 15. 1842-44):
    • Annexation of Sindh (1843).
    • Abolition of Slavery (Act V of 1843). Lord Hardinge I (Governor-General 16. 1844-48):
    • First Anglo-Sikh War (1845-46) and Treaty of Lahore (1846).
    • Took steps against female infanticide and human sacrifice. Lord Dalhousie (James Andrew Ramsay) 17. (Governor-General 1848-56):
    • Introduced the Doctrine of Lapse.
      • First state annexed: Satara (1848).
      • Other states annexed under Lapse: Sambalpur (1849), Jhansi (1853), Nagpur (1854).
    • Annexed Awadh (Oudh) (1856) on grounds of maladministration, described as "a cherry that will drop into our mouth one day."
    • Second Anglo-Sikh War (1848-49) and annexation of Punjab.
    • Established the Public Works Department (PWD) (1854).
    • Introduced Railways (First train 1853, Bombay to Thane); advocated rapid railway construction.
    • Introduced Electric Telegraph (1853); considered the father of Electric telegraph in India.
    • Comprehensive Postal System reforms (Post Office Act, 1854, introduced postal stamps).
    • Implemented Wood's Despatch on Education (1854).
    • Annexed Sikkim (1850).
    • Credited with extending British Empire from Irrawaddy to Indus River. Lord Canning (Governor-General 1856-58; 18. First Viceroy of India 1858-62):
    • Was Governor-General of India during the Revolt of 1857.
    • Last Governor-General of India and first Viceroy of India.

Significant Viceroys post-1857 and their contributions (e.g., Canning, Lytton, Ripon, Curzon, Minto, Hardinge, Linlithgow, Wavell, Mountbatten)

Mountbatten)

  • Lord Canning (1856-1862)
    • Last Governor-General under EIC, First Viceroy of India.
    • Revolt of 1857 occurred.
    • Government of India Act, 1858 (transfer of power to Crown).
    • White Mutiny (1859) by European troops.
    • Indian Councils Act, 1861, Indian Penal Code (1860), High Courts Act (1861).
  • Lord Elgin I (1862-1863)
    • Brief tenure.
  • Lord John Lawrence (1864-1869)
    • First to officially shift Council to Simla in summer.
  • Lord Mayo (1869-1872)
    • First Census (experimental) in 1872.
    • Financial decentralization.
    • Established Department of Agriculture and Commerce.
    • Murdered by a convict in Andaman Islands.
  • Lord Northbrook (1872-1876)
    • Resigned due to Afghan policy differences.
  • Lord Lytton (1876-1880)
    • Vernacular Press Act (1878) enacted.
    • Arms Act (1878).
    • Lowered age limit for ICS exam (21 to 19).
    • Appointed Strachey Commission (Famine Commission, 1878).
    • Abolished duties on British cotton imports.
    • Conferred titles of 'Rai Bahadur' and 'Khan Bahadur'.
  • Lord Ripon (1880-1884)
    • 'Father of Local Self-Government' (Local Self-Government Resolution, 1882).
    • Repealed Vernacular Press Act (1882).
    • Ilbert Bill Controversy (1883).
    • First Factory Act (1881).
    • First complete Census of India (1881).
    • Appointed Hunter Commission (1882) on education.
    • Praised by Florence Nightingale as "savior of India".
  • Lord Dufferin (1884-1888)
    • Establishment of Indian National Congress (1885).
    • Called Congress a 'microscopic minority'.
    • Allahabad University established (1887).
  • Lord Lansdowne (1888-1894)
    • Indian Councils Act, 1892.
    • Durand Line Commission (1893).
  • Lord Elgin II (1894-1899)
    • Famine of 1896-97.
  • Lord Curzon (1899-1905)
    • Partition of Bengal (1905).
    • Ancient Monuments Preservation Act (1904), reorganized Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
    • Appointed Police Commission (1902) and Universities Commission (1902).
    • Indian Universities Act (1904).
    • Indian Agriculture Service started; agricultural reforms beneficial to farmers.
    • Younghusband Mission to Tibet (1904).
    • Suggested construction of Victoria Memorial in Kolkata.
  • Lord Minto II (1905-1910)
    • Morley-Minto Reforms / Indian Councils Act, 1909.
    • Establishment of Muslim League (1906).
  • Lord Hardinge II (1910-1916)
    • Annulment of Partition of Bengal (1911).
    • Capital shifted from Calcutta to Delhi (1911).
    • Delhi bomb incident (1912) targeting him.
  • Lord Chelmsford (1916-1921)
    • Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms / Government of India Act, 1919.
    • Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919).
  • Lord Reading (1921-1926)
    • Only Jewish Viceroy of India.
    • Repeal of Press Act of 1910 & Rowlatt Act (1922).
  • Lord Irwin (1926-1931)
    • Dandi March (1930) and Civil Disobedience Movement.
    • Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931).
  • Lord Willingdon (1931-1936)
    • Government of India Act, 1935.
    • Remarked, "It's a beautiful world if it wasn't for Gandhi.....".
  • Lord Linlithgow (1936-1943)
    • Longest serving Viceroy (7 years).
    • Individual Satyagraha (1940) and Quit India Movement (1942).
    • Cripps Mission (1942).
    • Called Gandhiji's movements 'political blackmail'.
  • Lord Wavell (1943-1947)
    • INA trials (1945-46).
    • Cabinet Mission (1946).
  • Lord Mountbatten (1947-1948)
    • Last Viceroy of British India, First Governor-General of independent India.
    • Mountbatten Plan (June 3 Plan) for partition.
    • Called Gandhiji "One man boundary force".

Structure and functioning of the central British administration in India

  • Early Administration (pre-1773): East India Company rule; distinct Presidencies (Bengal, Bombay, Madras) with Governors and Councils, largely independent.
  • Regulating Act of 1773:
    • Governor of Bengal designated Governor-General of Bengal (first: Warren Hastings).
    • Governor-General assisted by an Executive Council of 4 members; majority decision binding.
    • Subordinated Governors of Bombay and Madras to the Governor-General of Bengal in matters of war and peace.
    • Established Supreme Court at Calcutta.
  • Pitt's India Act of 1784:
    • Introduced 'Dual Control': Board of Control (political affairs) in Britain and Court of Directors (commercial affairs) for the Company.
    • Governor-General's Executive Council reduced to 3 members.
    • Governor-General given power to override his Council in specific cases (later enhanced by Act of 1786).
  • Charter Act of 1833:
    • Governor-General of Bengal became Governor-General of India (first: Lord William Bentinck).
    • Centralized legislative power in the Governor-General-in-Council; deprived Bombay and Madras of legislative powers.
    • Added a fourth (Law) member to the Governor-General's Council (initially only for legislative functions).
    • Company ceased to be a commercial body, became purely administrative.
  • Charter Act of 1853:
    • Separated legislative and executive functions of the Governor-General's Council.
    • Added 6 new legislative members to the Council, establishing a separate Indian (Central) Legislative Council.
    • Introduced open competition for Indian Civil Service (ICS) recruitment.
  • Government of India Act 1858:
    • Ended Company rule; transferred governance to the British Crown.
    • Governor-General of India became Viceroy of India (first: Lord Canning), direct representative of the Crown.
    • Abolished Board of Control and Court of Directors.
    • Created Secretary of State for India (SoS) in British Parliament, assisted by a 15-member India Council, exercising complete authority over Indian administration.
  • Indian Councils Act 1861:
    • Expanded Governor-General's Legislative Council by adding 6-12 additional non-official members (nominated, some Indian).
    • Restored legislative powers to Bombay and Madras Presidencies, initiating decentralization.
    • Introduced the 'portfolio system' (Lord Canning), assigning specific departments to Council members.
  • Indian Councils Act 1892:
    • Increased the number of non-official members in Central and Provincial Legislative Councils.
    • Members could discuss the budget and ask questions, but not vote.
    • Indirect introduction of the principle of election for legislative bodies.
  • Indian Councils Act 1909 (Morley-Minto Reforms):
    • Increased size of Legislative Councils. Official majority maintained at Centre, non-official majority in provinces.
    • First time an Indian (Satyendra Sinha) appointed to the Viceroy's Executive Council.
    • Introduced separate electorates for Muslims.
  • Government of India Act 1919 (MontaguChelmsford Reforms):
    • Introduced 'Dyarchy' in provinces (division of subjects into 'reserved' for Governor and 'transferred' for ministers).
    • Established a Bicameral Legislature at the Centre (Legislative Assembly and Council of State) with direct elections.
    • Separate electorates extended to Sikhs, Indian Christians, Anglo-Indians, and Europeans.
    • Separated provincial and central budgets.
  • Government of India Act 1935:
    • Proposed an All-India Federation (never fully implemented).
    • Abolished Dyarchy in provinces, introducing Provincial Autonomy.
    • Introduced Dyarchy at the Centre (reserved and transferred subjects for the Governor-General).
    • Established a Federal Court, Reserve Bank of India, and Federal Public Service Commission.
    • Abolished the Council of India for the Secretary of State.
  • Lord Irwin (1926-1931) was the Viceroy when the Purna Swaraj Resolution was passed (Lahore Session, Dec 1929).
  • India Independence Act, 1947, abolished the office of Viceroy and established the office of Governor-General for each Dominion (India & Pakistan).
  • Lord Mountbatten was the last Viceroy of British India (March 1947 - August 1947).

5. Economic Impact of British Rule on India

Transition to dominion status and the end of the Viceroyalty

  • Lord Mountbatten was the first GovernorGeneral of independent India (Dominion of India) (August 15, 1947 - June 1948).
  • C. Rajagopalachari was the first and last Indian Governor-General (June 1948 - January 26, 1950), succeeding Lord Mountbatten.
  • The office of Governor-General was permanently abolished on January 26, 1950, when India became a Republic.
  • Driven by British industrial demand for raw materials (cotton, jute, indigo) and food products (tea, coffee, opium, oilseeds, sugarcane).
  • Cotton Cultivation:
    • The American Civil War (1861-1865) disrupted cotton supply to Britain, leading to a temporary "cotton boom" in India.
    • This boom was particularly significant in the cotton-producing regions of the Deccan (e.g., Maharashtra).
    • By 1862, India supplied 90% of the cotton imported by Britain.
    • The boom led to increased indebtedness for farmers (ryots) as they took loans from moneylenders (sahukars) for cultivation.
    • The Deccan Riots of 1875 were a violent reaction by ryots against the exploitation by moneylenders.
  • Jute Cultivation:
    • Prompted by high global demand for jute.
    • Cultivation expanded into the Brahmaputra Valley due to saturation of suitable land in Bengal and the availability of abundant labour.
  • Indigo Cultivation:
    • Cultivation was often forced and oppressive (e.g., Tinkathia system).
    • Its decline by the beginning of the 20th century was primarily due to the invention of synthetic dyes in Germany, which made natural indigo unprofitable in the world market.
  • Kumri Cultivation:
    • A form of shifting cultivation practiced in regions of Karnataka before independence.
    • It was banned by the British in 1890.
    • Mostly limited to areas administered by the Madras Presidency which are now parts of Karnataka state.
    • Generally for subsistence, not primarily for commercial crops supplied to the British administration; its banning was part of British efforts to control forests and promote settled agriculture.
  • Maize Introduction: Maize was introduced into India via Portugal and Italy.
  • Overall Consequences of Commercialization:
    • Increased indebtedness and exploitation of poor peasants by moneylenders/bankers, who were key financiers for cash crop cultivation.
    • Shift from food crops to cash crops led to scarcity of food grains, contributing to famines.
    • Market price fluctuations and lack of control over prices often led to bankruptcy for Indian farmers.
    • Did not lead to significant prosperity for the majority of Indian peasants.
    • Zamindars and Indian bankers/ moneylenders significantly benefited from the system.

Practice MCQs: Governor/Governor General/Viceroy

Controversies and criticisms surrounding their rule

  1. Which among the following Viceroys was associated with the ‘Ilbert Bill Controversy’?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2020

    1. Lord Curzon
    2. Lord Lytton
    3. Lord Ripon
    4. Lord Hardinge
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Lord Ripon

    The Ilbert Bill, proposed in 1883, sought to allow Indian judges to preside over cases involving British subjects, which was previously not permitted. This led to strong opposition from the European community in India and the British press, known as the Ilbert Bill controversy.

  2. Which of the following factors caused the greatest racial cleavage in India before the foundation of the Indian National Congress?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2023

    1. The Ilbert Bill Controversy
    2. The reductions of age for entry to the Civil Services
    3. The Arms Act of 1878
    4. The Vernacular Press Act
    Show answer

    Answer: A. The Ilbert Bill Controversy

    The Ilbert Bill proposed granting Indian judges and magistrates the power to try European British subjects, a power previously held exclusively by European judges. This led to a massive and racially charged backlash from the European community in India, highlighting the deep-seated racial prejudice prevalent at the time and demonstrating the disparity in legal rights based on race.

  3. Who of the following was impeached in the British Parliament?

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2006

    1. Sir John Shore
    2. Lord Clive
    3. Warren Hastings
    4. General Dyer
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Warren Hastings

    Warren Hastings faced impeachment proceedings in the House of Commons and a subsequent trial in the House of Lords between 1788 and 1795 on charges of corruption and mismanagement during his tenure as Governor-General. Although acquitted, the trial highlighted issues of governance in British India.

  4. Who compared Curzon’s administration in India to that of Aurangzeb ?

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2012

    1. B.G. Tilak
    2. G.K. Gokhale
    3. Dadabhai Naoroji
    4. Annie Besant
    Show answer

    Answer: B. G.K. Gokhale

    Gopal Krishna Gokhale, a prominent moderate nationalist leader, was a sharp critic of Viceroy Lord Curzon's administration (1899-1905). Gokhale famously compared Curzon's rule to that of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, implying that Curzon's policies were characterized by authoritarianism, disregard for public opinion, and a lack of sympathy for the Indian people, much like Aurangzeb's rule which is often viewed in contrast to the more tolerant policies of his predecessors. This comparison was made in a speech delivered in 1905.

  5. Consider the following events and arrange them in correct chronological order. 1. Acquisition of Awadh by the British 2. Ilbert Bill Controversy 3. Indigo Revolt 4. Second Anglo- Afghan War Select the correct answer from the code given below : Code :

    Asked in: uppsc 2025 2025

    1. 1, 3, 4, 2
    2. 3, 1, 4, 2
    3. 3, 1, 2, 4
    4. 1, 3, 2, 4
    Show answer

    Answer: A. 1, 3, 4, 2

    The chronological ordering of significant historical events is crucial for understanding the flow of history and their interconnections.

  6. The bill enacted by Lord Ripon for trial of European criminals by senior Indian magistrates is known as

    Asked in: Assistant Auditor (Direct) 2021

    1. Sadler Bill
    2. Ilbert Bill
    3. Miller Bill
    4. Raleigh Bill
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Ilbert Bill

    The Ilbert Bill (1883), introduced during Lord Ripon's viceroyalty, sought to end racial bias in the judiciary by empowering Indian judges to try European criminals. It sparked significant controversy and opposition.

  7. इल्बŠर्ट ǒबल ͪविविाद ͩकिस विायसराय किे किाल में हुआ ?

    Asked in: Assistant Prosecuting Officer (APO) Exam 2021

    1. लॉPर्ड lलटन
    2. लॉPर्ड लैंसPाउन
    3. लॉPर्ड åरिपन
    4. लॉPर्ड कKर्डन
    Show answer

    Answer: C. लॉPर्ड åरिपन

    इल्बटर्ड lबल lविविाद लॉPर्ड åरिपन के विायसरिाय काल में हुआ था।

Economic policies and their impact on India

  1. The export of slaves from Bengal was banned in which year?

    Asked in: JPSC CS Prelims 2014

    1. 1764
    2. 1789
    3. 1858
    4. 1868
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 1789

    - This ban was part of the Company's efforts to regulate and eventually suppress the slave trade within and from its territories. - The Proclamation banning the export of slaves was issued by Lord Cornwallis in 1789. - This was a significant step, although slavery within India continued legally for several more decades until the Indian Slavery Act of 1843.

  2. Who among the following was the first Indian ruler to accept the Subsidiary Alliance System of Wellesley?

    Asked in: UPSC CBI DSP LDCE 2023

    1. Salabat Jung
    2. Asaf Jah II
    3. Tipu Sultan
    4. Baji Rao II
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Asaf Jah II

    Lord Wellesley became the Governor-General of Bengal in 1798 and systematically used the Subsidiary Alliance system to expand British influence and control over Indian states. Under this system, an Indian ruler who accepted the alliance had to disband his own army and allow British troops to be stationed in his territory. He also had to pay for the maintenance of the British force and accept a British Resident at his court. In return, the British promised protection against external enemies and internal revolts, but this came at the cost of the ruler's sovereignty.While some earlier alliances with the British had features resembling the Subsidiary Alliance, the Nizam of Hyderabad under Asaf Jah II was the first major state to sign a comprehensive Subsidiary Treaty with Wellesley in September

  3. The Nawab of Awadh had signed an alliance in 1765, but it was different from Wellesley's system. Baji Rao II, the Peshwa, accepted the alliance much later through the Treaty of Bassein in 1802. Tipu Sultan of Mysore was a staunch opponent of the British and was defeated and killed before he could be subjected to the alliance. 12. Who is known as the "Father of Indian Railways"?

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 3 2023

    1. Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
    2. Sir M. Visvesvaraya
    3. Lord Dalhousie
    4. Jawaharlal Nehru
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Lord Dalhousie

    Lord Dalhousie served as the Governor-General of India from 1848 to 1856. His tenure saw the introduction of the first passenger railway line in India from Mumbai to Thane in 1853. He vigorously pursued the development of railways, telegraph, and postal services in India, laying the foundation for modern infrastructure.

Evolution of the titles: Governor, Governor-General of Bengal, Governor-General of India, Viceroy

  1. The First Governor-General of British India was:

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2006

    1. Robert Clive
    2. Warren Hastings
    3. Wellesley
    4. Dalhousie
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Warren Hastings

    Inspector(Legal Metrology & Consumer Affairs) -2020 The Regulating Act of 1773 created the post of Governor-General of Bengal, first held by Warren Hastings. The Charter Act of 1833 changed the title to Governor-General of India, first held by William Bentinck.

  2. Who succeeded Robert Clive to lead the East India Company?

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2016

    1. Lord Bentinck
    2. Lord Cornwallis
    3. Lord Hastings
    4. Lord Wellesley
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Lord Hastings

    Robert Clive left India for the last time in 1767. Warren Hastings became the Governor of Bengal in 1772 and was appointed the first Governor-General of Bengal in 1774 under the Regulating Act of

  3. He was the dominant figure in British India administration following Clive's period of influence. 15. Which one of the following British officials was elevated to the position of Governor General after the Regulating Act of 1773?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2021

    1. Warren Hastings
    2. Lord North
    3. Mountstuart Elphinstone
    4. Philip Francis
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Warren Hastings

    The Act unified the three presidencies of Bengal, Madras, and Bombay under the Governor-General of Bengal, centralizing the administration of the East India Company's territories in India.

  4. Consider the following statements: 1. First Governor of Bengal was Lord Amherst 2. First Governor-General of Bengal was Warren Hastings. 3. First Governor-General of India was William Bentinck. From the above mentioned statements, select proper option:

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2024

    1. 1 and 2 are correct
    2. 2 and 3 are correct
    3. 1 and 3 are correct
    4. 1, 2 and 3 all are correct
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 2 and 3 are correct

    Statement 1 is incorrect. Robert Clive is often considered the first Governor of Bengal following the Battle of Plassey in 1757. Lord Amherst was a later Governor-General of Bengal (1823–1828). Statement 2 is correct. Warren Hastings became the first Governor-General of Bengal under the Regulating Act of 1773. Statement 3 is correct. Lord William Bentinck became the first Governor-General of India under the Charter Act of 1833, which unified the administration under a single head.

  5. Who among the following was the first Viceroy of India under British Rule ?

    Asked in: UPSC CISF AC EXE 2022

    1. Lord Dalhousie
    2. Lord Cornwallis
    3. Viscount Canning
    4. Earl of Mayo
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Viscount Canning

    - The title 'Viceroy' was introduced after the transfer of power from the East India Company to the British Crown in 1858. - The Viceroy acted as the representative of the British monarch in India. - Lord Canning served as Governor-General from 1856 to 1858 and as the first Viceroy from 1858 to 1862.

  6. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer by using the codes given below the lists: List I List II I. Governor General of A) Archibald Percival Presidency of Fort Willi‐ Wavell, Viscount and am in Bengal (under Earl Wavell Regulating Act, 1773) B) James Andrew II. Governor General of Broun Ramsay, Earl India (under Charter and Marquess of Dal‐ Act, 1833) housie III. Governor General C) Charles Cornwaland Viceroy of India lis, 2nd Earl and first (under Indian Councils Marquess of Corn‐ Act, 1858) wallis D) Gilbert John Elliot - Murray - Kynyn‐ IV. Governor General mond, Earl of Minto and Crown Representat‐ E) Louis Mountbative (under Government ten, Earl of India Act. 1935) Mountbatten of Burma

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1996

    1. I - C, II - B, III - D, IV - A
    2. I - C, II - D, III - A, IV - E
    3. I - B, II - C, III - D, IV - E
    4. I - D, II - B, III - C, IV – A
    Show answer

    Answer: A. I - C, II - B, III - D, IV - A

    - I. Governor General of Presidency of Fort William in Bengal (under Regulating Act, 1773): Charles Cornwallis (C) served as Governor-General of Bengal from 1786 to 1793, during the era that began with the 1773 Act. This is a correct pairing. - II. Governor General of India (under Charter Act, 1833): James Andrew Broun Ramsay, Earl and Marquess of Dalhousie (B) served as Governor- General of India from 1848 to 1856, which falls under the period governed by the 1833 Charter Act. This is a correct pairing. - III. Governor General and Viceroy of India (under Indian Councils Act, 1858): The title Viceroy was introduced by the Government of India Act 1858 (not Indian Councils Act, 1858, although the latter was passed in the same year). Viceroys served from 1858 onwards. Gilbert John Elliot - Murray - Kynynmond, Earl of Minto (D) refers to Lord Minto I, who served as GG of Bengal from 1807-1813, long before the Viceroyalty era. Lord Minto II (1905-1910) was a Viceroy. Given the name description (Minto I), this pairing is historically inaccurate for the specified title and period. However, in option A, D is paired with III. - IV. Governor General and Crown Representative (under Government of India Act. 1935): Archibald Percival Wavell, Viscount and Earl Wavell (A) served as Governor-General and Crown Representative from 1943 to 1947, during the period the 1935 Act was in effect. This is a correct pairing.

  7. Who was the first Governor general of India:

    Asked in: RPSC RAS Prelims 1998

    1. Robert clive
    2. Warren Hasting
    3. Lord mayo
    4. Lord Dalhousie
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Warren Hasting

    Understanding the evolution of administrative titles under the British East India Company and later the British Crown is key to studying modern Indian history. The Regulating Act of 1773 consolidated British power and introduced the post of Governor- General.

Impact on Indian nationalism and freedom struggle

  1. "In my belief, Congress is to tottering to its fall and one of my great ambitions while in India is to assist it to a peaceful demise." Who wrote it ?

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 60 62rd

    1. Lord Lytton
    2. Lord Dufferin
    3. Lord Curzon
    4. Lord Minto
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Lord Curzon

    Lord Curzon held a contemptuous view of the Indian National Congress, which he considered a disloyal and unrepresentative body. He believed it was a weak institution that would soon collapse.

  2. An important event of Lord Dufferin's tenure as Viceroy was

    Asked in: MPPSC CS Prelims 2017

    1. establishment of Ramakrishna Mission
    2. establishment of Muslim League in Dhaka
    3. establishment of Indian National Congress
    4. beginning of the first Census
    Show answer

    Answer: C. establishment of Indian National Congress

    The Indian National Congress was founded on December 28, 1885, by A.O. Hume, a retired British Indian civil servant. The first session was held in Bombay.

  3. Who among the following Governor Generals ridiculed congress as representing only a 'microscopic minority' of people?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2018

    1. Lord Dufferin
    2. Lord Curzon
    3. Lord Minto
    4. Lord Lansdown
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Lord Dufferin

    Lord Dufferin was the Viceroy of India at the time of the formation of the Indian National Congress and later became critical of it.

  4. Who among the following called the movements of Gandhiji as 'political blackmail' ?

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2007

    1. Lord Chelmsford
    2. Lord Wavel
    3. Lord Linlithgow
    4. Lord Motague
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Lord Linlithgow

    - Lord Linlithgow was the Viceroy of India from 1936 to 1943, the longest-serving Viceroy. - The Quit India Movement (August 1942) was launched during his tenure. - The British government under Linlithgow responded with severe repression, arresting Gandhi and other major leaders immediately.

  5. “The Congress is tottering to its fall and one of my great ambitions while in India, is to assist it to a peaceful demise.” This statement is attributed to

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1998

    1. Lord Dufferin
    2. Lord Curzon
    3. Lord Lytton
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Lord Curzon

    The quote about the Congress's impending fall and Curzon's ambition to see its demise is a well-known statement made by Lord Curzon.

  6. Which one of the following Indian leaders was dismissed by the British from the Indian Civil Service?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1999

    1. Satyendranath Tagore
    2. Surendranath Banerji
    3. R. C. Dutt
    4. Subhash Chandra Bose
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Surendranath Banerji

    Surendranath Banerji is a notable example of an early Indian ICS officer who was dismissed by the British administration.

  7. Who among the following Viceroys ridiculed the Indian National Congress as ‘representing only a microscopic minority of people’?

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 3 2023

    1. Lord Canning
    2. Lord Elgin
    3. Lord Lawrence
    4. Lord Dufferin
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Lord Dufferin

    - Lord Dufferin served as the Viceroy of India from 1884 to 1888. - Initially, he adopted a somewhat favorable stance towards the formation of the INC, viewing it as a potential 'safety valve' for expressing Indian grievances. - However, as the Congress began to voice political demands more strongly, his attitude changed, and he became critical of the organization.

  1. Out of the following Viceroys of India in whose time 'Indian Penal Code,Civil Procedure Code and Criminal Procedure Code were passed ?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1994

    1. Lord Canning
    2. Lord Mayo
    3. Lord Lytton
    4. Lord Dufferin
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Lord Canning

    - Lord Canning served as the Governor-General of India from 1856 to 1858 and became the first Viceroy of India after the transfer of power from the East India Company to the British Crown in 1858. He served as Viceroy from 1858 to 1862. - The Indian Penal Code (IPC) was drafted in 1860. - The first Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) was enacted in 1861. - The first Code of Civil Procedure (CPC) was enacted in 1859. - All these landmark legal codes were enacted during the tenure of Lord Canning as Viceroy.

  2. Who was the First Law member in Governor General's Council? (1) Sleeman (2) Macaulay (3) Munro (4) Malcolm (5) Question not attempted

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Research Scholar) 2024

    1. Sleeman
    2. Macaulay
    3. Munro
    4. Malcolm
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Macaulay

    Thomas Babington Macaulay played a pivotal role in shaping the legal system of British India. His appointment to the Governor-General's Council as the Law Member was significant, especially concerning the codification of laws.

  3. The Indian penal code came into existence during the tenure of

    Asked in: Assistant Conservator of Forest (ACF) 2012

    1. Lord Bentinck
    2. Lord Canning
    3. Lord Curzon
    4. Lord Rippon
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Lord Canning

    This question tests knowledge of significant legal reforms and legislative enactments during the British rule in India. Knowing the Governor-General under whom the Indian Penal Code was introduced is crucial.

Key administrative reforms and policies

  1. Which is not one of the Cornwallis's reforms?

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2006

    1. Judicial
    2. Revenue
    3. Commercial
    4. Educational
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Educational

    While educational initiatives did exist during the Company's rule, Lord Cornwallis's tenure was not particularly marked by significant reforms or focus on the educational sector.

  2. Who established Imperial Cadet Corps?

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 63rd

    1. Lord Minto
    2. Lord Curzon
    3. Lord Lytton
    4. Lord Ripon
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Lord Curzon

    - Lord Curzon served as the Viceroy of India from 1899 to 1905. - He undertook various administrative and military reforms during his tenure. - The Imperial Cadet Corps was established in 1901 with the aim of providing military training to the sons of Indian princes and notable families, offering them limited opportunities for commissions in the army.

  3. Which of the following statements about Lord Mayo's Resolution of 1870 are correct? 1. It was the first step that bifurcated Central and Provincial finances. 2. Provincial Governments were empowered to administer certain services. 3. It attempted to rectify existing disparity. 4. It focussed on the actual needs of the Provinces. Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 69th

    1. Only 1 and 2
    2. Only 1, 3 and 4
    3. Only 2, 3 and 4
    4. 1, 2, 3 and 4
    Show answer

    Answer: D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

    The resolution was the first step towards decentralization of finances in British India, effectively bifurcating central and provincial budgets by transferring certain expenditure heads (like jails, police, education, medical services, roads) to the control of provincial governments. Provinces were granted fixed sums for these services and were expected to raise funds through local taxation, empowering them to administer these services according to their local needs and manage their finances, thereby attempting to address financial disparities and inefficiency.

  4. Which one of the following was not included in the terms and conditions of Subsidiary Alliance System of Lord Wellesley ?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 1 2022

    1. The British would protect their ally.
    2. The ally was free to enter into agreements with other rulers or engage in warfare.
    3. In the territory of the ally, a British armed contingent would be stationed.
    4. The ally would have to provide resources for the maintenance of the British armed contingent.
    Show answer

    Answer: B. The ally was free to enter into agreements with other rulers or engage in warfare.

    - The Subsidiary Alliance System was introduced by Lord Wellesley, Governor-General of Bengal from 1798 to 1805. - Key terms included accepting a British Resident, stationing of a British contingent within the state's territory, payment of subsidy or cession of territory for the contingent's maintenance, and surrendering control over foreign policy to the British. - In return, the British promised to protect the ally from external aggression.

  5. Public Works Department was organized in 1845-1855 by

    Asked in: JPSC CS Prelims 2014 · JPSC CS Prelims 2015

    1. Lord Dalhousie
    2. Lord Cornwallis
    3. George Auckland
    4. Warren Hastings
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Lord Dalhousie

    Lord Dalhousie served as the Governor-General of India from 1848 to 1856. His period is known for significant administrative reforms and development of infrastructure.

  6. Who is associated with introduction of Local Self Government in India ?

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2015

    1. Lord Dalhousie
    2. Lord Lytton
    3. Lord Ripon
    4. Lord Curzon
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Lord Ripon

    Lord Ripon's resolution of 1882 provided the foundation for the modern system of local self- government institutions in India.

  7. Calcutta Corporation Act, 1899 which reduced the strength of elected members was passed by :

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2016

    1. Lord Lytton
    2. Lord Ripon
    3. Lord Curzon
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Lord Curzon

    The Calcutta Municipal (Corporation) Act of 1899 was passed during the tenure of Viceroy Lord Curzon (1899-1905). This Act significantly reduced the number of elected Indian commissioners in the Calcutta Corporation and increased the number of nominated members, thereby giving the British government greater control over the municipality.

Military expansion and consolidation of British rule

  1. The British policy towards India during 1765-1813 is known as the

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2006

    1. policy of ring fence
    2. policy of subordinate alliance
    3. policy of non-intervention
    4. aggressive imperialism
    Show answer

    Answer: A. policy of ring fence

    The policy involved intervening in the affairs of surrounding states to secure the Company's borders against potential threats, such as the Marathas and Tipu Sultan. It was a defensive policy from the perspective of Company territories but often involved aggressive actions against neighbours.

  2. The Viceroy who followed aggressive policy towards Afghanistan was

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 65th

    1. Lord Mayo
    2. Lord Lytton
    3. Lord Dufferin
    4. Lord Canning
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Lord Lytton

    Lord Lytton served as Viceroy of India from 1876 to 1880. His foreign policy towards Afghanistan was marked by an aggressive "Forward Policy," aimed at establishing British influence and countering perceived Russian expansion, which led to the Second Anglo-Afghan War (1878-1880).

  3. Sind was conquered and annexed by

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 67th Re Exam moter vehicle inspector

    1. Sleeman
    2. Napier
    3. Lawrence
    4. Wellington
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Napier

    Charles Napier was the British general responsible for the conquest and annexation of Sind in 1843.

  4. Simla was founded as a hill station to use as strategic place for billeting troops, guarding frontier and launching campaign during the course of

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 1 2019

    1. Anglo-Maratha War
    2. Anglo-Burmese War
    3. Anglo-Gurkha War
    4. Anglo-Afghan War
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Anglo-Gurkha War

    Shimla (then Simla) came under British control after the Anglo-Gurkha War (1814-1816). The war ended with the Treaty of Sugauli, by which the Gurkhas ceded territories, including the hills around Shimla, to the British. The British initially developed Shimla as a retreat and sanatorium for their troops. Its strategic location in the hills made it suitable for billeting troops, guarding the northern frontier, and as a base for potential campaigns in the region. It later became the summer capital of British India.

  5. The Treaty of Sigauli took place in the year ?

    Asked in: UKPSC CS Prelims 2016

    1. 1800 A.D.
    2. 1803 A.D.
    3. 1805 A.D.
    4. 1815 A.D.
    Show answer

    Answer: D. 1815 A.D.

    The treaty formally concluded the conflict that lasted from 1814 to 1816.

  6. Match List - I with List II and select the correct answer from the codes given below the lists: List-I List-II

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2019

    1. Treaty of Allahabad 1. 1782
    2. Treaty of Manglore 2. 1784
    3. Treaty of Salbai 3. 1769
    4. Treaty of Madras 4. 1765 Codes: A. 4 2 3 1 B. 2 4 3 1 C. 4 2 1 3 D. 2 4 1 3
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Treaty of Salbai 3. 1769

    - Treaty of Allahabad (A) was signed in 1765 after the Battle of Buxar, between the British East India Company, the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II, and the Nawab of Awadh Shuja-ud-Daulah. It is correctly matched with 1765 (4). - Treaty of Mangalore (B) was signed in 1784, ending the Second Anglo- Mysore War, between the British East India Company and Tipu Sultan of Mysore. It is correctly matched with 1784 (2). - Treaty of Salbai (C) was signed in 1782, ending the First Anglo-Maratha War, between the British East India Company and the Maratha Empire. It is correctly matched with 1782 (1). - Treaty of Madras (D) was signed in 1769, ending the First Anglo-Mysore War, between the British East India Company and Hyder Ali of Mysore. It is correctly matched with 1769 (3). - The correct sequence of matches is A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3. Looking at the codes, option C provides this sequence.

  7. The conquest of Sindh by British was completed during the period of

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2012

    1. Lord Ellenborough
    2. Lord Hardinge
    3. LordAukland
    4. Lord Amherst
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Lord Ellenborough

    The British conquest and annexation of Sindh were completed in 1843. Lord Ellenborough served as the Governor-General of India from 1842 to 1844. The military campaign against the Amirs of Sindh was led by Sir Charles Napier, and the region was annexed to the British Indian Empire during Ellenborough's tenure.

Relation with princely states and policy of paramountcy

  1. Who believed that the Russian designs were 'an imminent peril to the security and tranquility' of the Indian Empire in 1836?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 1 2020

    1. Lord Auckland
    2. Lord Palmerston
    3. Lord Canning
    4. Alexander Burnes
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Lord Auckland

    His tenure was significantly influenced by the fear of Russian designs in Central Asia and Afghanistan, often referred to as the "Great Game," leading to policies aimed at securing India's northwestern frontier.

  2. The British policy towards Afghanistan in the first half of the 19th century aimed at

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2022

    1. Strengthening Afghanistan as a buffer against Russia.
    2. Weakening Russian influence in Afghanistan but not promoting a strong Afghanistan either.
    3. Promoting Russian influence in Afghanistan to control insurgent tribal leaders.
    4. Annexing Afghanistan as a directly-controlled British Territory.
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Weakening Russian influence in Afghanistan but not promoting a strong Afghanistan either.

    - The "Great Game" was a strategic rivalry between the British Empire and the Russian Empire for supremacy in Central Asia. - Afghanistan's geographical location made it a crucial barrier between the two empires' spheres of influence.

  3. British concluded Treaty of Bassein on 31st December, 1802 with :

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2016

    1. Sindhias
    2. Holkars
    3. Bhonsles
    4. Peshwas
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Peshwas

    The Treaty of Bassein was signed on 31st December 1802 between the British East India Company and Baji Rao II, the Peshwa of the Maratha Confederacy.

  4. Who among the following described the Indian princes as helpers and colleagues in the task of Imperial rule?

    Asked in: TNPSC CS Prelims 2014

    1. Lord Mayo
    2. Lord Ripon
    3. Lord Hardinge II
    4. Lord Wavel
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Lord Hardinge II

    Lord Hardinge II, Viceroy of India from 1910 to 1916, adopted a policy of associating Indian princes more closely with the imperial system. This approach stemmed from the British realisation after the 1857 Revolt that the princes could serve as loyal allies and a buffer against nationalist movements. Hardinge famously described the Indian princes as loyal helpers and colleagues in the task of Imperial rule, acknowledging their role and seeking their cooperation, particularly during the World War I period.

  5. What was the policy of Lord Hastings to establish English supremacy in India? - (i) Don't get entangled in matters of local powers. - (ii) To embrace the Pindaris. - (iii) Bringing the Marathas under the company. - (iv) Bringing small Princely States under British protection. Select the correct answer - (i), (ii) and (iii) (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) (ii), (iii) and (iv) (i), (iii) and (iv) - (5) Question not attempted

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Assistant Archivist) 2024

    1. (1)
    2. (2)
    3. (3)
    4. (4)
    Show answer

    Answer: C. (3)

    Lord Hastings (Governor-General from 1813 to 1823) pursued an aggressive policy of expansion and consolidation of British power. He effectively suppressed the Pindaris, a group of irregular cavalry who had become a menace. He also waged wars against the Marathas, leading to their decline and the establishment of British paramountcy. His subsidiary alliance system was used to bring smaller states under British protection, weakening their independence and further cementing British supremacy.

  6. Which of the following were the results of the 'Treaty of Amritsar (25-04-1809 AD)'? (i) Ranjit Singh's weakness was clearly proven. (ii) Ranjit Singh was given the freedom to expand into the region across the Sutlej. (iii) Ranjit Singh conquered Multan, Kashmir and Peshawar. (iv) With this Treaty the British influence reached Lahore. Select the correct answer - (1) (ii), (iii) and (iv) (2) (i), (ii) and (iii) (3) (ii) and (iii) (4) (i), (iii) and (iv) (5) Question not attempted

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Assistant Archivist) 2024

    1. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
    2. (i), (ii) and (iii)
    3. (ii) and (iii)
    4. (i), (iii) and (iv)
    Show answer

    Answer: A. (ii), (iii) and (iv)

    The Treaty of Amritsar (1809) acknowledged Maharaja Ranjit Singh's sovereignty north of the Sutlej River, enabling his territorial expansion. He later conquered Multan, Kashmir, and Peshawar. The treaty also set the Sutlej River as the boundary of British influence.

  7. In 1856, the headquarters of the AGG was changed from Ajmer. Where was the new headquarter? - Question not attempted

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Assistant Archivist) 2024

    1. Mount Abu
    2. Dungarpur
    3. Sirohi
    4. Udaipur
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Mount Abu

    The headquarters of the Agent to the Governor- General (AGG) in Rajputana was moved from Ajmer to Mount Abu in 1856.

Role in socio-religious reforms and educational development

  1. Who declared 'Sati' illegal?

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 63rd

    1. Warren Hastings
    2. William Bentinck
    3. Cornwallis
    4. Curzon
    Show answer

    Answer: B. William Bentinck

    Sati was formally abolished by Bengal Sati Regulation, 1829, under the Governor-Generalship of Lord William Bentinck.

  2. Which of the following British officer put pressure on the ruler of Bundi, Rao Raja Bishan Singh and successfully created atmosphere against the Sati system? (1) Robinson (2) C.E. Burton (3) James Tod (4) John Ludlow

    Asked in: Local Self Govt. Dept. (RO and EO) Re Exam 2022

    1. Robinson
    2. C.E. Burton
    3. James Tod
    4. John Ludlow
    Show answer

    Answer: C. James Tod

    James Tod was instrumental in advocating for the abolition of the Sati system among the Rajput rulers, including the ruler of Bundi.

  3. Who among the following Governor-Generals had abolished slavery in India?

    Asked in: GS 32 2023 IS DEEO 1505 2024

    1. Lord Cornwallis
    2. Lord Wellesley
    3. Lord William Bentinck
    4. Lord Ellenborough
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Lord Ellenborough

    The abolition of slavery in India was a gradual process, but Lord Ellenborough's Act of 1843 was a significant legal milestone.

  4. In 1902, Lord Curzon appointed a commission on university education, which is known as Indian Universities Commission. Who was its Chairman?

    Asked in: GS 32 2023 IS DEEO 1505 2024

    1. Syed Hussain Bilgrami
    2. Gooroodas Banerjee
    3. Thomas Raleigh
    4. Alexander Pedler
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Thomas Raleigh

    The Indian Universities Commission of 1902 was chaired by Thomas Raleigh.

Role of the Executive Council and Legislative Council

  1. आयुषमान भारत योजना (प्रधानमंत्री जन आरोग्य योजना) किे नये सी.ई. ओ. किे रूप में ͩकिसकिी ǓनयुǔÈत हुई है ?

    Asked in: Assistant Prosecuting Officer (APO) Exam 2021

    1. एम.एस. अनंथ
    2. Kी.के . lपल्लाई
    3. आरि.एस. शमार्ड
    4. मुकु न्दकम शमार्ड
    Show answer

    Answer: C. आरि.एस. शमार्ड

    R.S. Sharma was appointed as the CEO of Ayushman Bharat scheme.

  2. फे सबुकि किे पहले अनुपलन अͬधकिारी किे रूप में ͩकिसे ǓनयुÈत ͩकिया गया है ?

    Asked in: Assistant Prosecuting Officer (APO) Exam 2021

    1. Kेन विुPåरिज़
    2. फ्लोरिीन सीटू
    3. lक्रिस हूK
    4. हेनरिी मोlनन
    Show answer

    Answer: B. फ्लोरिीन सीटू

    यह lनयुlक्ति फे सबुक की Pेटा गोपनीयता औरि सुरिक्षा परि बढ़ती lचिंताओं के Kविाब में की गई थी।

  3. उस भारतीय-अमेǐरकिी किा नाम बताइए, ǔजसे नासा किा किायर्टविाहकि 'चीफ ऑफ स्Šाफ' ǓनयुÈत ͩकिया गया है ।

    Asked in: Assistant Prosecuting Officer (APO) Exam 2021

    1. भाव्या लाल
    2. रिाKा चिारिी
    3. lविविेक मूतर्ती
    4. रिाK अय्यरि
    Show answer

    Answer: A. भाव्या लाल

    विह नासा में महत्विपूRर्ड नेतृत्वि भूlमका lनभाने विाली दूसरिी भारितीय-अमेåरिकी हैं।

Significant Governor-Generals pre-1857 and their contributions (e.g., Warren Hastings, Cornwallis, Wellesley, Bentinck, Dalhousie)

  1. Who introduced the Civil Services for the first time in India?

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2006

    1. Warren Hastings
    2. Lord Cornwallis
    3. Lord Wellesley
    4. Lord Dalhousie
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Lord Cornwallis

    He also introduced the system of appointments based on merit to some extent and created a structured administrative machinery, though higher posts were reserved for Europeans.

  2. Chronologically arrange the following Governor-Generals of India. Select the correct answer from the code given below: (i) Lord Wellesley (ii) Lord William Bentinck (iii) Warren Hastings (iv) Lord Cornwallis Code :

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2018

    1. (iii), (iv), (i), (ii)
    2. (ii), (i), (iv), (iii)
    3. (i), (iii), (ii), (iv)
    4. (iv), (ii), (iii), (i)
    Show answer

    Answer: A. (iii), (iv), (i), (ii)

    - Warren Hastings served as the first Governor- General of Bengal from 1774 to 1785. - Lord Cornwallis served as Governor-General from 1786 to

  3. - Lord Wellesley served as Governor-General from 1798 to 1805. - Lord William Bentinck served as Governor-General of Bengal from 1828 to 1833 and then as the first Governor-General of India from 1833 to 1835. 104. Find the correct chronology of the following Governor Generals of India: (i) Sir John Macpherson (ii) The Earl Cornwallis (iii) Sir Alured Clarke (iv) The Earl of Mornington Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2022

    1. (i), (ii), (iii), (iv)
    2. (i), (ii), (iv), (iii)
    3. (ii), (i), (iii), (iv)
    4. (ii), (iii), (i), (iv)
    Show answer

    Answer: A. (i), (ii), (iii), (iv)

    To determine the correct chronological order, we need to know the tenures of these Governor Generals/Provisional Governor Generals: (i) Sir John Macpherson: Provisional Governor General (1785-1786) (ii) The Earl Cornwallis: Governor General (1786-1793, and briefly in 1805) (iii) Sir Alured Clarke: Provisional Governor General (March 1798) (iv) The Earl of Mornington (Lord Wellesley): Governor General (1798-1805) Arranging these tenures chronologically: Macpherson (1785-86) is followed by Cornwallis (1786-93). After Sir John Shore (1793-98), Alured Clarke briefly held the office in March 1798 before Lord Mornington arrived and took charge in May 1798, serving until 1805. Thus, the order is (i), (ii), (iii), (iv).

  4. The College of Fort William was established by which one of the following Governor- Generals?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2018

    1. Warren Hastings
    2. Lord Cornwallis
    3. Richard Wellesley
    4. William Bentinck
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Richard Wellesley

    The primary purpose of the college was to train civil servants (civilians) of the East India Company in the languages, customs, and history of India to improve their administration. However, its role was curtailed soon after its establishment due to opposition from the Court of Directors in London.

  5. Which kingdom was described by Governor-General Lord Dalhousie as “A cherry that will drop into our mouth one day” ?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2024

    1. Delhi
    2. Awadh
    3. Jhansi
    4. Gwalior
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Awadh

    - The quote "A cherry that will drop into our mouth one day" was made by Lord Dalhousie. - It referred to the kingdom of Awadh. - Awadh was annexed by the British in 1856. - The pretext for annexation was misgovernance.

  6. The revolt of Vellore occur during the regime of which Governor ?

    Asked in: CGPSC Prelims Exam 2016

    1. Wellesley
    2. Lord Minto
    3. Lord Cornwallis
    4. Sir George Barlow
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Sir George Barlow

    The Vellore Mutiny of 1806 was one of the earliest instances of a large-scale mutiny by Indian sepoys against the British East India Company, predating the 1857 revolt.

  7. Who among the following established the Public Works Department (PWD) in India?

    Asked in: UPSC Geoscientist 2022

    1. Lord Dalhousie
    2. Lord Bentinck
    3. Lord Cornwallis
    4. Warren Hastings
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Lord Dalhousie

    Lord Dalhousie, who served as Governor-General of India from 1848 to 1856, significantly reorganized the administration. He is credited with creating a separate Public Works Department (PWD) to manage and develop infrastructure like roads, railways, irrigation canals, and buildings, which was previously handled inefficiently by military boards.

Significant Viceroys post-1857 and their contributions (e.g., Canning, Lytton, Ripon, Curzon, Minto, Hardinge, Linlithgow, Wavell, Mountbatten)

  1. Who is known as the 'Father of Local Self- Government' in India?

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2014

    1. Lord Amherst
    2. Lord Ripon
    3. Lord Lytton
    4. Lord Bentinck
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Lord Ripon

    Lord Ripon's Resolution of 1882 is considered pivotal in the history of local self-government in India.

  2. The first Census was conducted at the time of

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2016

    1. Lord Dufferin
    2. Lord Lytton
    3. Lord Auckland
    4. Sir John Napier
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Lord Lytton

    - The first non-synchronous census in India was conducted in 1872 (under Lord Mayo). - The first synchronous and regular census was conducted in 1881 (under Lord Ripon). - Lord Lytton's tenure was 1876-1880, falling between the 1872 attempt and the 1881 synchronous census.

  3. The Viceroy, upon whom a bomb was thrown but he did not change his attitude towards the Indians was

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2016

    1. Lord Hardinge
    2. Warren Hastings
    3. Lord Curzon
    4. Lord Chelmsford
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Lord Hardinge

    In December 1912, a bomb was thrown at Lord Hardinge during a procession in Delhi marking the transfer of the capital from Calcutta. He was injured but survived.

  4. Which among the following viceroy period the title of 'Rai Bahadur' and 'Khan Bahadur' were began to conferred to Indian?

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 60 62rd

    1. Lord Ripon
    2. Lord Lytton
    3. Lord Mayo
    4. Lord Dufferin
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Lord Lytton

    These titles were part of the British policy to reward loyal Indian subjects and create a class of Indian aristocracy supportive of the colonial rule.

  5. Lord Lytton is not associated with which of the following?

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 69th

    1. The Strachey Commission
    2. The Arms Act
    3. The Vernacular Press Act
    4. The Ilbert Bill
    Show answer

    Answer: D. The Ilbert Bill

    - Lord Lytton's tenure (1876-1880) is associated with policies like the Vernacular Press Act and Arms Act, viewed as discriminatory towards Indians. - Lord Ripon's tenure (1880-1884) is known for reforms like the repeal of the Vernacular Press Act, the First Factory Act, and the Ilbert Bill controversy.

  6. Which one of the following Viceroys was the first to officially shift his Council to Simla in summer season?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 1 2023

    1. John Lawrence
    2. Lord Dalhousie
    3. Lord Mayo
    4. William Bentinck
    Show answer

    Answer: A. John Lawrence

    - The practice of shifting the capital to a hill station during summer was adopted by the British Raj due to the extreme heat in the plains. - While Simla was used by Governors-General for recreation earlier, Lord Lawrence formalized the shifting of the entire administrative machinery, including the Council.

  7. Who among the following started the Indian Agriculture Service?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2019

    1. Lord Curzon
    2. William Bentinck
    3. Lord Minto
    4. Lord Rippon
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Lord Curzon

    The establishment of the Indian Agriculture Service was initiated during the Viceroyalty of Lord Curzon.

Structure and functioning of the central British administration in India

  1. In the history of Indian Navy, one serving Chief of Staff was removed from the office, while one had resigned. Their names in this order are

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2014

    1. Admiral R. K. Dhowan and Admiral Suresh Mehta
    2. Admiral V. S. Shekhawat and Admiral N. K. Verma
    3. Admiral Vishnu Bhagawat and Admiral D.K. Joshi
    4. None of them
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Admiral Vishnu Bhagawat and Admiral D.K. Joshi

    Admiral Vishnu Bhagwat was controversially removed from the position of Chief of the Naval Staff in December 1998. Admiral D.K. Joshi resigned from the post in February 2014, taking moral responsibility for a series of accidents involving Navy ships.

  2. The former President of India, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam breathed his last while delivering a lecture at

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2015

    1. IIT, Guwahati
    2. IIM, Shillong
    3. IIT, Kanpur
    4. IIM, Ahmedabad
    Show answer

    Answer: B. IIM, Shillong

    Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam died while giving a lecture at IIM Shillong.

  3. Match the Indian Prime Ministers (List-I) with their initiatives/policies (List-II) List-I List-II a. P. V. Narasimha 1. Six-Nation Disarmament Rao Conference b. Morarji Desai 2. Pokhran-II c. A. B. Vajpayee 3. Look East Policy d. Rajiv Gandhi 4. Genuine Non-Alignment Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2022

    1. a-1, b-2, c-3, d-4
    2. a-2, b-4, c-3, d-1
    3. a-3, b-4, c-2, d-1
    4. a-3, b-4, c-1, d-2
    Show answer

    Answer: C. a-3, b-4, c-2, d-1

    a. P. V. Narasimha Rao initiated India's 'Look East Policy' in 1992 to strengthen ties with Southeast Asian countries. b. The Janata Party government led by Morarji Desai (1977-1979) described its foreign policy as 'Genuine Non-Alignment', emphasizing equidistance from both superpower blocs. c. A. B. Vajpayee's government conducted the 'Pokhran-II' nuclear tests in May 1998. d. Rajiv Gandhi proposed the Six-Nation Disarmament Conference (comprising Argentina, Greece, India, Mexico, Sweden, and Tanzania) in 1985 to advocate for nuclear disarmament.

Transition to dominion status and the end of the Viceroyalty

  1. Who among the following was the last Governor-General of India before the office was permanently abolished ?

    Asked in: UPSC NDA 2 2024

    1. Lord Mountbatten
    2. Chakravarti Rajagopalachari
    3. Lord Wavell
    4. Lord Linlithgow
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Chakravarti Rajagopalachari

    - After India gained independence from British rule on August 15, 1947, the post of Viceroy was replaced by that of Governor-General of the Dominion of India. - The first Governor-General of independent India was Lord Mountbatten (August 1947 - June 1948). - Following Lord Mountbatten, Chakravarti Rajagopalachari (C. Rajagopalachari) became the first and only Indian to hold the office of Governor-General of India (June 1948 - January 1950). - When India became a Republic on January 26, 1950, the office of Governor-General was abolished, and the President of India became the constitutional head of the state. - Therefore, C. Rajagopalachari was the last person to serve as the Governor-General of India. - Lord Wavell was Viceroy of India before Mountbatten. - Lord Linlithgow was Viceroy of India during World War II.

  2. Who among the following was the first Governor-General of free India?

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2014

    1. Lord Mountbatten
    2. Sir Stafford Cripps
    3. C. Rajgopalachari
    4. Dr. Rajendra Prasad
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Lord Mountbatten

    Lord Mountbatten served as the Governor-General of India from August 15, 1947, to June 21, 1948. He was succeeded by C. Rajagopalachari, who became the first and only Indian Governor-General.

  3. The last Governor General of India was

    Asked in: Forest Range Officer Exam 2012

    1. Lord Linlithgo
    2. C. Rajagopalachari
    3. Lord Rippon
    4. Lord Mountbatten
    Show answer

    Answer: B. C. Rajagopalachari