Who among the following introduced the Permanent Settlement of Bengal in 1793?
Lord Cornwallis
Understanding the Permanent Settlement of Bengal 1793
The question asks about the historical figure responsible for introducing the Permanent Settlement in Bengal in the year 1793. This was a significant land revenue system implemented during the British East India Company's rule in India.
What was the Permanent Settlement?
The Permanent Settlement, also known as the Zamindari System, was an agreement between the East India Company and the Bengal Zamindars (landlords) to fix revenues from land. The Zamindars were recognized as the owners of the land, and they were responsible for collecting rent from the peasants and paying a fixed revenue to the Company. The amount of revenue to be paid by the Zamindars to the Company was fixed permanently.
Who Introduced the Permanent Settlement?
The Permanent Settlement was introduced by the then Governor-General of Bengal. Let's look at the options provided:
- Lord Cornwallis: He served as the Governor-General of Bengal from 1786 to 1793. He is widely credited with implementing significant administrative reforms, including the Permanent Settlement of 1793.
- Lord Ripon: He was a Viceroy of India much later, from 1880 to 1884. He is known for introducing the Local Self-Government resolution.
- Robert Clive: He was a key figure in the early expansion of British power in India, serving multiple times in Bengal, notably after the Battle of Plassey (1757). However, the Permanent Settlement was introduced much later than his time.
- John Adam: There was a John Adam who served as Acting Governor-General for a brief period in 1825, significantly later than 1793.
Based on historical records, the Permanent Settlement of Bengal in 1793 was a major policy decision enacted during the tenure of Lord Cornwallis. This system aimed to ensure a stable income for the Company and encourage investment in agriculture, although it had significant long-term consequences for the peasants.
Conclusion on the Introducer
Considering the historical context and the tenure of the individuals mentioned in the options, Lord Cornwallis was the Governor-General who introduced the Permanent Settlement of Bengal in 1793.
| Figure | Relevant Period/Known for | Connection to Permanent Settlement |
|---|---|---|
| Lord Cornwallis | Governor-General (1786-1793) | Introduced the Permanent Settlement in 1793 |
| Lord Ripon | Viceroy (1880-1884) | Known for Local Self-Government |
| Robert Clive | Early British Expansion (e.g., Battle of Plassey 1757) | Pre-dates the Permanent Settlement |
| John Adam | Acting Governor-General (1825) | Post-dates the Permanent Settlement |
Revision Table: Key Facts about Permanent Settlement
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Permanent Settlement (also Zamindari System) |
| Year Introduced | 1793 |
| Introduced by | Lord Cornwallis |
| Areas Covered | Bengal, Bihar, Orissa, and later extended to parts of Varanasi and Madras Presidency |
| Key Feature | Fixed the land revenue demand permanently |
| Role of Zamindars | Recognized as landowners; collected rent from peasants; paid fixed revenue to the Company |
Additional Information: Impact of Permanent Settlement
The Permanent Settlement had mixed impacts. For the British East India Company, it ensured a stable and predictable revenue flow. For the Zamindars, it enhanced their status and provided incentives (initially) for land improvement. However, it significantly impacted the peasants (Ryots) who were left to the mercy of the Zamindars and often faced eviction if they could not pay the rent. The system also led to the decline of many old Zamindar families who failed to pay the fixed revenue on time, leading to the rise of new landlords.
This system was different from other land revenue systems introduced later by the British, such as the Ryotwari System and the Mahalwari System, which dealt directly with cultivators or village communities to some extent.
Similar Questions
Consider the following statements related to Wellesley's administration:
1) In the six years of Wellesley's administration, the army accounted for 42.5 percent of the Company's total expenditure.
2) Wellesley's administrative measures were restricted to the affairs of the Company and had nothing to do with the commercial and military affairs of the Indian ruling families.
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Which Governor General of Bengal underwent impeachment proceedings in the British Parliament?
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