SSC CGL 2023 PYQ — Question 40

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. Government of India Act, 1919.

The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms introduced Dyarchy in the provinces through the Government of India Act, 1919.

Explanation:

• Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms: Named after Edwin Montagu, the then Secretary of State for India, and Lord Chelmsford, the Viceroy of India, these reforms were conceived to address the call for increased Indian involvement in governance and to modernize the administrative framework.
• Introduction of Dyarchy: The Government of India Act, 1919, established the system of Dyarchy in the provinces. This system was a form of dual government where powers were divided between elected Indian ministers and appointed British officials.

 

 

• Elected Ministers: Indian ministers were responsible for certain provincial subjects that were categorized as "transferred" subjects, such as education, health, and local self-government.
• British Officials: British officials, who were not elected, retained control over "reserved" subjects, which included finance, law and order, and the police.

 

 

• Objective: The goal of Dyarchy was to give Indians more control over provincial matters while maintaining ultimate British authority over critical areas. This system was intended to be a compromise between full self-government and British control, providing a greater role for Indian representatives in the administration.
• Impact and Criticism: While the introduction of Dyarchy was a step towards self-governance, it was criticized for being a half-measure that did not fully address the demands for greater autonomy. The dual system created complexities and inefficiencies in governance, and the British retained significant control over key areas of administration.

The Government of India Act, 1919, marked a significant shift in Indian political history by introducing Dyarchy, setting the stage for further constitutional developments and reforms in the subsequent decades.