Which act was passed to grant limited self-governance to Indians for the first time?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Correct Answer
Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms 1919
Explanation
The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms (also known as the Government of India Act 1919) introduced a system of 'Dyarchy' at the provincial level, granting limited self-governance to Indians for the first time. Under this act, provincial subjects were divided into two categories: 'Reserved' and 'Transferred'. Transferred subjects (such as education, public health, and local self-government) were handed over to elected Indian ministers who were accountable to the legislative council. Additionally, this act established a bicameral legislature at the center and introduced direct elections in the country for the first time.
Key Points
The Government of India Act 1858 transferred the governance of India from the East India Company directly to the British Crown but did not grant any self-governance to Indians.
The Indian Councils Act 1892 increased the number of non-official members in the central and provincial legislative councils and allowed them to discuss the budget, but it stopped short of offering self-rule.
The Regulating Act 1773 was the first step taken by the British Parliament to control and regulate the affairs of the East India Company, laying the foundation of centralized administration in India.
Important Questions and Answers
Question: What did the system of 'Dyarchy' introduced at the provincial level under the Government of India Act 1919 mean?
Answer: It meant splitting the provincial administrative subjects into two distinct categories—'Reserved' (administered by the Governor and his executive council) and 'Transferred' (administered by Indian ministers).
Question: Who were the Viceroy of India and the Secretary of State for India during the formulation of the 1919 reforms?
Answer: Lord Chelmsford was the Viceroy of India and Edwin Montagu was the Secretary of State for India.