Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 175

Who abolished the dual government system?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context of British rule in India.

Correct Answer: B) Warren hastings.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Civil Services, Bank PO

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The dual government system, also known as the Dual System, was a form of administration in India under the British East India Company. This system was established by Robert Clive in 1765 after the Battle of Buxar. The dual government system involved a mix of British and Indian governance, where the British East India Company had control over the revenue collection and administration of the territories, while the Nawabs and other Indian rulers retained nominal control over their respective regions.

Warren Hastings, who became the first Governor-General of India in 1773, recognized the inefficiencies and corruption associated with the dual government system. In 1772, he abolished the dual government system and replaced it with a more centralized British administration. This new system, known as the "Permanent Settlement," was designed to streamline the collection of revenue and reduce the influence of local Indian rulers. Under this new system, the British East India Company took direct control of the administration and revenue collection, which significantly increased their control over the Indian territories.

Warren Hastings' decision to abolish the dual government system was a significant step in the consolidation of British power in India. It marked a shift from a more collaborative form of governance to a more direct and centralized form of administration. This change had long-lasting effects on the political and administrative landscape of India, leading to increased British control and the eventual establishment of the British Raj.

It is important to note that the dual government system was a complex administrative arrangement that reflected the early stages of British colonial rule in India. The abolition of this system by Warren Hastings was a pivotal moment in the history of British India, as it set the stage for the more direct and centralized form of governance that would characterize the British Raj in the following decades.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. Gandhi ji was a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement but did not have a role in abolishing the dual government system, which occurred much earlier in the 18th century.
  • Option B: This option is correct. Warren Hastings, the first Governor-General of India, abolished the dual government system in 1772, replacing it with a more centralized British administration.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Robert Clive established the dual government system in 1765, but he did not abolish it. Warren Hastings took the action to abolish the system in 1772.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Siraj ud Daulah was the last independent Nawab of Bengal before the Battle of Plassey in 1757. He was not involved in the administrative changes that occurred under British rule.

Mnemonic: WHA: Warren Hastings Abolished

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