TSPSC - Group-1 Mains - 2024

(Test-03)
QUESTION & ANSWERS

1) How will you explain the major political changes that took place during the eighteenth
century in India.?

Why this  Clarify how mid-eighteenth-century India was beset with the spectre of a
question fragmented polity. (UPSC 2017)

Demand of the Explain— clarify a topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it
question occurs, or what is meant by the use of this term in a particular context.

Introduction The 18th century in India was a period marked by significant political upheaval
and transformation, as it witnessed the decline of the once-mighty Mughal
Empire, the rise of regional powers, and the increasing influence of European
colonial powers.

Body

The major political developments of the 18th century India include:

Dimensions Content with examples

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 Decline of  Post-Aurangzeb, the weakness & ineffectiveness later-
Mughal empire Mughal rulers lead the empire to economic,
administrative and military issues.
Eg: The Jagirdari crisis of 18th century

Emergence of  Regional governors (subadars) gained greater

regional powers autonomy, effectively becoming independent rulers in
their respective regions.
Eg: Nizam-ul-Mulk established the Hyderabad state

Challenge to  Marathas in western India, the Sikh Confederacy in the

central authority Punjab, and the Nawabs of Bengal, often challenged
the authority of the Mughal Empire and engaged in
territorial expansion.

Entry of the  The establishment of trading posts, treaties, and

Europeans alliances with Indian rulers allowed the European
powers to influence Indian politics.
Eg: Englishmen setting up factories in Surat and
Bengal.

In Deccan &  Powerful states such as Hyderabad under Nizams and

South India Mysore under Hyderali& Tipu asserted dominance in
the regional politics.

Persian invasions  Repeated invasions by Nadir Shah and Ahmad Shah

Abdali, further weakened the Mughal empire and
disrupted the political landscape.

Conclusion In sum, these changes had far-reaching consequences, setting the stage for the
colonial era and the subsequent struggle for independence

2) Assess the political landscape of 18th century India and its role in creating conditions
conducive to European colonization.

Why this  An analytical understanding of this period, just before the dawn of
question colonialisation, will be helpful in brewing strong points in Modern India
mains questions.

Demand of the Briefly mention the political scenario various part of India in 18th century. Present
question points based on how these developments set stage for the European colonisation
in India.

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Introduction The political landscape of 18th century India was marked by a series of internal
conflicts, the decline of the Mughal Empire, and the emergence of regional
powers, all of which played a pivotal role in creating conditions conducive to
European colonization.

Body

The political Landscape of 18th Century India witnessed:

Dimensions Content with examples

A declining  Weak and ineffective rulers, internal strife, and

Mughal empire administrative corruption weakened the empire's
central authority.

Rising regional  Various regional powers began to assert their

powers independence & influence. Notable among them were
the Marathas, Sikhs, Nizam of Hyderabad, and Mysore
under Hyder Ali & Tipu.

Arrival of  European colonial powers, primarily the British,

European French, and Portuguese, sought to expand their trading
powers interests in India. They established trading posts and
secured concessions from weak or willing Indian
rulers.
The role of this 18th century political landscape in creating conditions
conducive to European colonization can be explained as:

Dimensions Content with examples

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 Internal  The disintegration of the Indian subcontinent into
fragmentation multiple small states and regions due to the Mughal
Empire's decline left a power vacuum that European
colonial powers could take advantage of.

Lack of unity  The newly established states, had differing interests and
they constantly conflicted with one another.

Failure to  The Indian rulers were well deceived by the English

recognise the and French elements, who pushed them to engage in
intent of conflicts, which were essentially proxy wars, in the
Europeans benefit of European powers.

European  European powers signed treaties and alliances with

diplomacy Indian rulers, granting them certain privileges and
territorial control in exchange for military support or
financial aid.

Sub-regionalism  Both the rulers and the people, asserted their regional
identity and ethnicity, which prevented them to
peacefully engage and forge alliances with
neighbouring states, to form a united front.

Conclusion Thus, the dynamics of this period of political transition set the stage for the
colonization that would shape India's history for the centuries to come.

3) Assess the impact of Brahmo Samaj and Arya Samaj on socio-religious reforms in 19th
century British India.

Why was this Discuss the major social reform movements of the second half of the 19th
question asked? century. In what way did they contribute to the rise and growth of Indian
National Movement?
What were the contributions of the Arya Samaj to social and religious
movements of India

Introduction Arya Samaj and Brahmo Samaj movements sought to challenge

prevalent social norms, promote rationality, and advocate for progressive
reforms in the 19th century British India.

Body I. Brahmo Samaj:

Rationality and Monotheism:
 Brahmo Samaj, founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy, emphasized rationality
and rejected idol worship.

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 Women's Rights and Social Equality:
 Brahmo Samaj played a pivotal role in advocating for women's rights,
challenging prevalent practices like sati and promoting female education.
 Fought against social inequalities, campaigned against caste discrimination,
and emphasized the unity of all mankind.
Influence on Social Reform Movements:

 The efforts of Brahmo Samaj inspired other socio-religious movements and

reformers, such as Keshab Chandra Sen and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar.
 Contributed to the overall discourse on social reform and religious revival
in colonial India.
Impact on Education and Modernity:
 Brahmo Samaj members actively promoted modern education and the
spread of Western knowledge.
 Played a significant role in the establishment of educational institutions like
Hindu College and Bethune School.
Religious Pluralism and Interfaith Dialogue:
 Brahmo Samaj fostered religious tolerance and encouraged interfaith
dialogue, promoting harmony among different religious communities.
 Influenced the trajectory of Indian religious and philosophical thought.
II. Arya Samaj:
Vedic Revival and Social Reforms:
 Arya Samaj, founded by Swami Dayananda Saraswati, aimed to revive the
Vedic traditions and promote Vedic knowledge.
 Advocated for social reforms, including the abolition of child marriage,
caste discrimination, and female infanticide.
Emphasis on Education and Sanskrit:
 Encouraged the study of Sanskrit and Vedic literature to rediscover the
ancient wisdom of India.
Roles in National Awakening:
 Actively contributed to the intellectual discourse on Indian identity and
self-reliance.
Promotion of Swadeshi Movement:
 Inspired by the principles of Arya Samaj, followers actively participated in
the Swadeshi Movement, advocating for indigenous products and self-
sufficiency.

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 Impact on Caste System:
 Arya Samaj's opposition to the caste system challenged social hierarchies
and sought to create a more egalitarian society.

Conclusion Thus, both movements left a lasting impact on Indian society by

challenging orthodoxy, promoting progressive ideals, and shaping the
intellectual and cultural landscape of colonial India.

4) Analyze the influence of Theosophical Society on 19th-century socio-religious reforms.

Why was this Discuss the role of the Theosophical society in the history of religious movement in
question asked? India

Introduction The Theosophical Society, founded in 1875 by Helena Blavatsky and

Henry Olcott, emerged as a significant socio-religious reform movement
during the 19th century.

Body I. Promotion of Interfaith Dialogue:

 The Theosophical Society fostered interfaith dialogue by bringing together
individuals from diverse religious backgrounds.
II. Synthesis of Eastern and Western Philosophies:
 The Theosophical Society played a pivotal role in introducing Eastern
spiritual philosophies to the Western world.
 Promoted the study and assimilation of ancient Indian wisdom, including
teachings from Hinduism, Buddhism, and Vedanta, among others.
 Theosophical literature, such as Blavatsky's "The Secret Doctrine,"
contributed to a broader understanding of Eastern spirituality in the West.
III. Revitalization of Religious Thought:
 Sparked a reevaluation of traditional religious doctrines and interpretations,
leading to a renaissance of spiritual inquiry.
IV. Influence on Social Reforms:
 The Theosophical Society supported various social reform movements in
19th-century India.
 It advocated for women's rights, education, and caste equality.
 Example: The society's members actively participated in campaigns against
child marriage and promoted women's education.
V. Global Reach and Legacy:
 The Theosophical Society's influence extended beyond India to other parts
of the world.

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  It laid the foundation for subsequent spiritual and philosophical movements
worldwide.
 Example: Theosophical teachings influenced prominent figures like
Mahatma Gandhi, who incorporated its principles in his nonviolent struggle
for Indian independence.

Conclusion The Theosophical Society emerged as a transformative force in 19th-

century socio-religious reform movements. Through interfaith dialogue, the
synthesis of Eastern and Western philosophies, and the revitalization of
religious thought, it sparked a new wave of spiritual inquiry and broadened
the horizons of religious understanding. The influence of the Theosophical
Society extended beyond its time, inspiring subsequent movements and leaving
a lasting impact on religious discourse and intellectual exploration.

5) Discuss the objectives and impact of the Satya Shodak Samaj in 19th-century
Maharashtra.

Why was this Asses the contributions of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar to the making of modern
question asked? India

Introduction In 1873, Jyotirao Phule founded the "Satya Shodak Samaj" (Society
of Seekers of Truth) with the aim of emancipating the "Shudras" from
Brahmin domination and eradicating social and religious bondage.

Body I. Objectives and Membership of the Satya Shodak Samaj:

 The main objectives of the Samaj were to liberate the Sudras and Ati-
sudras from social and religious bondage and prevent their exploitation by
Brahmins.
 Membership was open to all, regardless of caste and creed, with a pledge
of loyalty to the British Empire.
 The Samaj advocated treating all human beings as "children of God"
without the need for mediators.
II. Social and Religious Reforms:
 Phule opposed idolatry and the worship of idols, denouncing the
Chaturvarnya (the four varnas).
 He emphasized equal rights for men and women, considering
discrimination based on sex a sin.
 Phule envisioned a society based on liberty, equality, and fraternity,
opposing religious bigotry and aggressive nationalism.

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 III. Establishment of Branches and Media Influence:
 The Samaj established a branch in Bombay in 1874 and launched the
weekly journal "Din Bandhu" three years later.
 "Din Bandhu" served as a platform to raise awareness of the grievances of
mill workers and suggest measures to alleviate their conditions.
 The Samaj used its influence to articulate the concerns of peasants and
workers, pioneering their organization and attempts to address their
grievances.
IV. Opposition and Impact:
 Brahmin orthodoxy strongly opposed the anti-Brahmanical ideology of
the Satya Shodak Samaj, with Vishnushastri Chiplunkar leading the
reactionary response through his journal "Nibandhmala."
 Phule criticized the Brahmo Samaj, Prarthana Samaj, Sarvajanik Sabha,
and Indian National Congress for their failure to take concrete measures
to improve the conditions of the masses.
 Although the Samaj remained outside formal politics, its radicalism and
focus on justice drew attention to the need for social reforms.

Conclusion Thereforetheir efforts to promote social and religious reforms,

advocate for gender equality, and raise awareness of the plight of peasants
and workers left a significant impact on the social fabric of the time.

6) Discuss the policies and impact of Lord Wellesley in consolidating British power in India
during the early 19th century.

Why was this (Theme – British Consolidation)

question asked? Evaluate the policies of Lord Curzon and their long-term implications on the
national movements.
In many ways, Lord Dalhousie was the founder of modern India. Elaborate.

Introduction Lord Wellesley’s initiatives and diplomatic maneuvers had a

profound impact on British dominance in the subcontinent.

Body I. Policy of Subsidiary Alliances:

 Implementation of the Subsidiary Alliance System, wherein local rulers
were forced to accept British military protection in exchange for control
over their foreign affairs and the stationing of British troops.
 The objective was to ensure British supremacy, weaken rival Indian
powers, and expand British influence throughout India.

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 II. Wars and Expansion:
 Anglo-Maratha Wars: Lord Wellesley engaged in a series of conflicts with
the Maratha Empire, defeating their forces and securing British control
over significant territories.
 Mysore Campaign: Wellesley's forces defeated Tipu Sultan of Mysore,
resulting in the Treaty of Srirangapatnam and further extending British
dominion.
III. Administrative Reforms:
 Centralized Administration: Wellesley established a system of centralized
administration to strengthen British control, including the establishment of
British resident officers in princely states.
 Judicial and Revenue Reforms: He introduced judicial and revenue
reforms to streamline governance and enhance British influence over
economic and legal matters.
IV. Impact on British Power:
 Expansion of British Territories: Lord Wellesley's policies led to the
acquisition of fixed territories, extending British control and influence in
India.
 Consolidation of British Power: The Subsidiary Alliance System and
military victories strengthened British hegemony, diminishing the power
of indigenous rulers and princely states.
 Legacy of Imperialism: Wellesley's policies laid the foundation for
subsequent British imperial rule in India, shaping the course of Indian
history for the next century.

Conclusion Therefore, Lord Wellesley's policies and actions during his tenure as
Governor-General played a pivotal role in consolidating British power in
India during the early 19th century.

7) Do you agree with the view that the Revolt of 1857 was elitist in nature? Justify your
answer.

Why was this (Theme – 1857 Revolt)

question asked? The 1857 uprising was the culmination of the recurrent, big and small local
rebellions that had occurred in the preceding hundred years of British rule.
Elucidate.

Introduction The Revolt of 1857, also known as the Indian Rebellion or the First
War of Independence, was a watershed moment in India's struggle against

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 British colonial rule. The nature of this uprising has been a subject of
historical debate, with some arguing that it was elitist in nature.

Body Key arguments favouring the elitist nature of 1857 Revolt:

Leadership by Elites:
 The revolt was led by the upper echelons of Indian society, including
disgruntled princely rulers, aristocrats, and sepoys, suggesting an elitist
character.
 Prominent leaders like Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi and Bahadur Shah II
belonged to the royal elite.
Grievances of the Sepoys:
 The immediate trigger for the revolt was the sepoys' discontent over British
reforms, such as the introduction of the new Enfield rifle and the use of
animal fat in its cartridges.
 The grievances of the sepoys, who were part of the Indian elite military
class, played a significant role in the uprising.
Limited Participation of the Masses:
 The revolt witnessed limited participation from the rural peasantry and
urban working classes, suggesting that it may have been primarily driven
by the grievances of the elite.
Urban Centers as Focal Points:
 The revolt centered around major urban areas like Delhi, Lucknow, and
Kanpur, where the elite and princely rulers were concentrated, reinforcing
the notion of an elitist revolt.
However, it was not an entirely elite in character due to the following reasons:
Widespread Popular Support:
 The rebellion witnessed significant support from various sections of
society, including peasants, artisans, and religious leaders, suggesting a
broader-based movement beyond the elite class.
Socio-Religious Factors:
 The revolt saw the mobilization of diverse religious communities, such as
the Hindu and Muslim sepoys and leaders, indicating a larger social and
religious dimension.
Economic Grievances:
 Economic factors, such as the impact of British policies on agrarian
communities and the disruption of traditional economic structures,
motivated a wider section of society to join the revolt.

Conclusion While there were elements of elite participation and leadership, the

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 rebellion also witnessed substantial support from diverse sections of society.
The Revolt of 1857, therefore, represents a complex tapestry of societal
aspirations and resistance against British colonial rule.

8) Critically examine the reasons for non-existence of Permanent settlement in other parts of
India that were annexed by East India Company in 19th century.

Why was this (Theme – British Economic Policies)

question asked? Why was there a sudden spurt in famines in colonial India since the mid-eighteenth
century? Give reasons.

Introduction The Permanent Settlement introduced by the East India Company in

Bengal in 1793 was a significant land revenue policy. However, its application
in other parts of India that were annexed by the Company in the 19th century
was limited or non-existent largely due to following setbacks witnessed in the
implementation of Permanent Settlement.

Body I. Struggle between Local Governments and Zamindars:

 After the implementation of the Permanent Settlement, a struggle ensued
between the local governments and the zamindars, leading to administrative
complications.
 Zamindars often hindered the government's efforts and even supported
criminal activities, resulting in law-and-order problems.
II. Weakening of Government Authority:
 The system led to a weakening of the bond between the government and the
people, as the focus shifted solely to rent collection by the zamindars.
 Lack of direct contact with the masses and limited knowledge of the interior
adversely affected the government's control and authority.
III. Exclusion of Peasants' Interests:
 The Permanent Settlement favored a handful of landowners, ignoring the
interests of the vast mass of peasants who faced resentment and
dissatisfaction.
 The system failed to provide the state with a share in the increasing rents,
leading to the concentration of wealth in the hands of zamindars.
IV. Absence of Zamindari Class and Financial Implications:
 The absence of a sizable zamindari class in the Madras Presidency
prevented the introduction of the Permanent Settlement in that region.
 The British Empire sought a unified concept of sovereignty, and the
ryotwari system was favored by administrators like Thomas Munroe for
eliminating overmighty poligars.

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 V. Financial Burden on the East India Company:
 The Permanent Settlement imposed a fixed revenue payment on the
Company, leading to financial losses in the long run as expenses escalated
due to continuous wars.
In addition to the above factors the following issues constrained British from
implementing Permanent Settlement system in rest of the Indian parts
VI. Diversity of Land Tenure Systems:
 Different land tenure systems existed in different parts of India, making the
implementation of a uniform Permanent Settlement challenging.
 Regions like the Deccan, Punjab, and Madras Presidency had their distinct
land tenure arrangements deeply rooted in local customs and traditions.
VII. Political and Administrative Challenges:
 Annexed regions often experienced political instability, making the
implementation of a long-term settlement like the Permanent Settlement
impractical.
 Administrative constraints, such as inadequate knowledge of local land
systems and resistance from local elites, hindered the extension of the
Permanent Settlement.

Conclusion The East India Company therefore recognized the need for region-
specific revenue systems to navigate the complexities of land ownership and
ensure sustainable revenue collection and thus implemented ryotwari and
mahalwari systems in other geographical regions of the country.

9) The Moderates exemplified the power of moderation, fostering dialogue, and finding
common ground between the demands of the people and the limitations imposed by the
British Empire. Critically evaluate.

Why was this (Theme - Moderates)

question asked? To what extent did the role of the moderates prepare a base for the wider
freedom movement? Comment.

Introduction The Moderates, a prominent group of leaders during India's struggle

for independence, played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of the
movement. Advocating for a measured and inclusive approach, they sought to
strike a delicate balance between the aspirations of the people and the realities
of British colonial rule.

Body I. Embracing Pragmatism:

 The Moderates recognized the need for gradual political reforms rather than

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 outright confrontation with the British Empire.
 They aimed to work within the system, utilizing constitutional means to
advocate for Indian interests.
II. Advocating for Reforms:
 The Moderates advocated for social and political reforms that aimed to
address the grievances of the people and improve governance.
 They demanded representative institutions, civil liberties, and economic
reforms to uplift the masses.
III. Building Alliances:
 The Moderates sought alliances with like-minded individuals and groups,
both within India and outside, to strengthen their cause.
 They collaborated with moderate British officials, Indian princely states,
and other political organizations to amplify their demands.
IV. Balancing Nationalism and Loyalty:
 The Moderates balanced their nationalist aspirations with a sense of loyalty
towards the British Empire, emphasizing the need for mutual understanding
and cooperation.
 They aimed to bridge the gap between Indian aspirations and British
policies, pushing for reforms while maintaining a respectful approach.
V. Limitations and Criticisms:
 Critics argue that the Moderates' approach of moderation limited the pace
of India's freedom struggle.
 They were criticized for being elitist, detached from the masses, and not
adopting more radical methods of resistance.

Conclusion Thus, moderates efforts laid the foundation for future movements and
political developments, highlighting the importance of finding common
ground while pursuing independence.

10) In the first decade of the 20th century, the atmosphere was ripe for the emergence of

revolutionary groups to fill up the vacant space in the political map of the country.
Critically examine.

Why was this (Theme- Extremists & Revolutionary terrrorism)

question asked? Since the decade of the 1920s, the national movement acquired various
ideological strands and thereby expanded its social base. Discuss.

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Introduction The first decade of the 20th century in India witnessed a
transformative period in the political landscape, characterized by following
factors that created an environment conducive to the emergence of
revolutionary groups.

Body I. British Repression and Nationalist Sentiments:

 The oppressive policies of the British Raj, including economic exploitation,
repressive laws, and curbs on civil liberties, fueled growing discontent
among Indians.
 Nationalist sentiments and a desire for self-rule gained momentum, creating
a fertile ground for revolutionary groups to challenge British dominance.
II. Influences of Global Revolutionary Movements:
 The international context, particularly the influence of revolutionary
movements like the Russian Revolution and Irish struggle for
independence, inspired Indian revolutionaries.
 The success of these movements demonstrated the possibility of
challenging colonial powers through armed resistance.
III. Intellectual Awakening and Ideological Shifts:
 The emergence of educated middle-class intellectuals, exposed to Western
ideas of democracy, nationalism, and socialism, contributed to the rise of
revolutionary ideas.
 The works of nationalist thinkers like Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and
Aurobindo Ghosh influenced the political discourse and provided
intellectual justification for revolutionary action.
IV. Swadeshi and Boycott Movements:
 The Swadeshi and Boycott movements, triggered by the partition of Bengal
and the economic drain caused by British policies, created a sense of unity
and collective action among Indians.
 These movements also provided a platform for radical elements to mobilize
and channelize nationalist sentiments into revolutionary activities.
V. Role of Revolutionary Organizations:
 Groups like Anushilan Samiti, Jugantar, and Hindustan Socialist
Republican Association emerged as revolutionary organizations that aimed
to liberate India from British rule through armed resistance.
 They carried out acts of sabotage, assassinations, and armed uprisings to
challenge the British authority.

Conclusion Therefore, revolutionary groups filled the void in the political landscape
and introduced a new dimension to the freedom struggle. While their actions were
met with varying degrees of success and controversy, their presence and efforts

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 played a significant role in shaping the course of India's struggle for independence.

11) The social and economic environment of India during World War one created a congenial
context for Gandhi’s emergence as an undisputed leader of masses. Explain

Why was this (Theme- Gandhi’s Leadership)

question asked? How difficult would have been the achievement of Indian independence
without Mahatma Gandhi? Discuss.

Introduction The social and economic conditions in India during World War I provided
a fertile ground for Mahatma Gandhi's emergence as an undisputed leader of the
masses.

Body I. Impact of World War I:

 The outbreak of World War I had a significant impact on India, leading to
increased recruitment of Indian soldiers, imposition of war taxes, and
diversion of resources towards the war effort.
 The war resulted in rising inflation, food shortages, and economic
hardships for the common people, further exacerbating their discontent.
II. Unifying Nationalistic Sentiments:
 The war created a sense of unity among Indians, transcending regional
and religious differences, as they collectively supported the British war
efforts.
 Nationalistic sentiments were awakened, with Indians expecting political
reforms and greater autonomy in return for their support.
III. Role of Indian National Congress:
 The Indian National Congress, under the leadership of prominent figures
like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Annie Besant, advocated for the rights of
Indians and demanded political concessions from the British.
 Gandhi, a prominent member of the Congress, utilized this platform to
articulate his ideas and galvanize public support.
IV. Influence of Gandhi's Leadership:
 Gandhi's principles of non-violence, civil disobedience, and Satyagraha
resonated with the masses, offering them a powerful tool to resist British
oppression.
 His emphasis on self-reliance, promotion of khadi (hand-spun cloth), and
empowerment of rural communities struck a chord with the impoverished
masses affected by the economic hardships of the war.

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 V. Mass Mobilization and Protest Movements:
 Gandhi effectively mobilized the masses through various campaigns such
as the Champaran Satyagraha, Kheda Satyagraha, and Ahmedabad Mill
Workers' strike.
 These movements not only addressed specific grievances but also
provided a platform for ordinary Indians to actively participate in the
freedom struggle.

Conclusion Gandhi's leadership during this period marked a turning point in

India's freedom movement, establishing him as a transformative figure in
the nation's history.

12) Enumerate the major factors that facilitated the arrival of European powers to the Indian
subcontinent since the 15th century.

Why this  It is important to know these factors that pushed western European powers to
question undertake voyages to the Orient or Asia/India, as it will connect the dots
between the Indian & World history events such a as colonialisation.

Demand of the Enumerate—means that you just list down the points about the topic, with a brief
question description.

Introduction The arrival of European powers to the Indian subcontinent since the 15th century
was facilitated by a complex interplay of several factors, which played a crucial role
in shaping the course of Indian history and the subsequent colonization of the
region.

Body

The key factors that contributed to this significant historical development are:
Dimensions Content with examples

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 Advancements in  The development of more sea-worthy ships and
navigation innovations in navigation instruments, allowed European
sailors to undertake long and perilous voyages.

Quest for new sea  The desire to bypass the Ottoman controlled land routes
routes to Asia and establish direct access to the lucrative Asian
markets, especially for spices & textiles, was a driving
force behind European exploration.

Treaty of  An agreement between Spain & Portugal (1494) aimed

Tordesillas at settling conflicts over lands newly discovered, divided
the world between these two powers for further
exploration.

Entrepreneurship  European powers sought to tap into the vast wealth and
resources of the Indian subcontinent. India was known
for its abundance of spices, precious metals, gemstones,
textiles etc..

Rivalry among  Intense competition among European nations, including

European powers Portugal, Spain, the Netherlands, France, and England,
fuelled exploration and colonization efforts.

Exploratory  The expeditions by Columbus to Americas and Vasco da

voyages Gama to India, encouraged further exploration and the
search for new trade routes.

Conflict with  Since the Arabs monopolised the spice trade between
Arabs India and Europe, a soured relationship of Europeans
with them, led to supply shortages of Indian
commodities in the west.

Conclusion Thus, these factors converged to enable the Europeans to establish a presence in
India, ultimately leading to the era of European colonialism in the subcontinent.

13) Discuss the key strategies employed by the French and English East India Companies in
their initial efforts to establish trade and influence in India during the 17th century. How
did these efforts shape the course of Indian history?

Why this  Why did the armies of the British East India Company – mostly comprising of
question Indian soldiers – win consistently against the more numerous and better
equipped armies of the Indian rulers? Give reasons. (UPSC 2022)

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Demand of the Discuss—means talk to examiners regarding theme of the question. Sometimes
question the theme may demand you to provide counter views/arguments.

Introduction The 17th century marked the initial forays of European powers into India,
primarily undertaken by the French and English East India Companies (EIC).
These companies employed distinct strategies to establish trade and exert
influence in the Indian subcontinent.

Body The strategies employed by them include:

Dimensions Content with examples

Commercial  The English established trading posts at locations like

ventures Surat and Madras, while the French focused on
Pondicherry and Chandernagore.

Alliance with  The French collaborated with local Indian rulers like
local powers Chanda Sahib through Dupleix, the French Governor
General.
 The English formed alliances with figures such as Mir
Jafar and Mir Kasim to assert influence in Bengal.

Military  The English EIC under Robert Clive, employed

conquests military force to secure its interests. The Battle of
Plassey in 1757 was a pivotal moment.
 The French attempted to expand their influence through
military means, but their efforts were hampered by the
British.

Diplomacy  Diplomatic missions were often used by both

companies to negotiate favourable trade agreements
and secure the support of local rulers.
As a result, these efforts by the foreign powers impacted the course of Indian
history in many ways, such as:

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Colonialism  The English & French EIC’s efforts in India laid the
groundwork for the eventual establishment of colonial
rule in India, though the influence of French declined
gradually.

British  The English EIC’s administrative structures and

domination on territorial control set the stage for a long period of

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 Indian politics British dominance.

Cultural impact  The presence of these European powers had a

profound influence on Indian society and culture, as
they introduced new ideas, technology, and
institutions.
Eg: Railways introduced in India by English in 1853.

Political  The competition between the French and English

fragmentation contributed to the political fragmentation of India, with
local rulers often caught in the crossfire.
Eg: The Anglo-Mysore wars.

Conclusion Ultimately, the actions of these European powers laid the groundwork for the
emergence of British colonial rule and significantly reshaped the course of Indian
history.

14) How will you explain the nature of British administrative structure in India in the early
days of Company Rule. What were its impact on Indian economy and society.

Why this question  Why was there a sudden spurt in famines in colonial India since the mid-
eighteenth century? Give reasons. (UPSC 2022)

Demand of the Explain— clarify a topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it
question occurs, or what is meant by the use of this term in a particular context.

Introduction The British East India Company established its presence in India in the early
17th century, initially as a trading entity. However, over time, it evolved into a
powerful political and administrative force in the Indian subcontinent.

Body The nature of British administrative structure in early Company rule:

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Dual  The Company's officials operated alongside Indian

government rulers and local administrators. This dual system
implemented by Robert Clive, allowed the Company
to control vast territories while relying on existing
administrative machinery.

Revenue  Revenue policies like introduction of the Permanent

collection Settlement in Bengal in 1793 by Lord Cornwallis,
tried to fix land revenue rates, which were often

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 exorbitant, leading to the impoverishment of many
Indian peasants.

Introduction of  Regulations like the Regulating Act of 1773 and the

regulations Pitt's India Act of 1784 laid the groundwork for a
more centralized administrative structure.

Establishment  The Company also established the Indian Civil

of civil service Service (ICS) to administer its territories. It
composed primarily of British officials and wielded
considerable power.
The impact of company rule on Indian economy include:

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Economic  Revenue reforms such as the Permanent

exploitation Settlement, along with subsequent revenue
systems, drained wealth from India and enriched
the Company and British officials.

Agriculture  The neglect of investments in agriculture

infrastructure and that the peasants were burdened
with heavy taxes, led to a decline in agricultural
productivity.

De-  British economic policies resulted in the decline of

industrialisation India's once-thriving handicraft and textile
industries, causing economic distress and
unemployment.
The social impacts include:

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Social unrest  The exploitative economic policies disrupted the

social fabric of Indian society. Many peasants lost
their land and livelihoods, leading to social unrest
and displacement.

Cultural  The introduction of English education &Western

impact cultural values, which led to the spread of
Westernisation and the erosion of traditional Indian
cultures and values.

Class divide  The British administrative system exacerbated caste

and class divisions. British officials often relied on

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 existing hierarchies, reinforcing social inequalities.

Conclusion This period laid the foundation for the more direct and centralized British rule
that followed, with lasting consequences for India's economic and social
development.

15) In the context of the recent amendments to the colonial-era legislations IPC and CrPC,
trace the origin of such laws and the reasons that necessitated their codification.

Why this  Why did the armies of the British East India Company – mostly comprising of
question Indian soldiers – win consistently against the more numerous and better
equipped armies of the Indian rulers? Give reasons. (UPSC 2022)

Demand of the Talk about the origin of IPC and CrPC in the light of recent criminal law
question amendments. List out the reasons that made British codify Indian laws.

Introduction Recently the Parliament has passed, the amendments to the IPC, CrPC and Indian
Evidence Act as Bharat Nyaya Sanhita, Bharat Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and
BharatiyaSakshya Bills. This highlights the 1933 Law Commission headed by
Lord Macaulay, which resulted in the codification of the Indian laws in 1860s.

Body The origin of these laws can be attributed to the

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First Law  The drafting of the CrPC was heavily influenced by the
Commission recommendations of the First Law Commission of
India, chaired by Lord Thomas Babington Macaulay.

English law  The Act drew heavily from English common law
principles and the English Law of Evidence. It aimed to
provide clear guidelines for the admissibility of
evidence, the examination of witnesses, and the
conduct of trials in Indian courts

Customary laws  The British sought to codify and standardize the legal
practices, which included Hindu, Muslim, and other
religious laws, into a more comprehensive and uniform
system.
The reasons for the codification of these laws, include:

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 Administrative  A uniform penal code like IPC sought to streamline
efficiency and simplify legal proceedings by providing clear &
consistent guidelines for defining crimes, specifying
punishments, and outlining the legal procedures for
adjudication.

Legal certainty  It ensured that individuals knew what actions

constituted crimes and what penalties they would face
if found guilty, thereby reducing ambiguity in the legal
system.

Control Indians  It enabled the colonial government to enforce its

authority and maintain order over the Indian
population., by defining what actions were punishable.

Comprehensive  IPC & CrPC have endured as the legal framework

framework governing criminal offenses and procedures in India
even after gaining independence in 1947.

Need for  The need for uniformity in legal practices across the
uniformity British-controlled territories in India.

Conclusion The recent amendments to these legislations reflect India's commitment to

evolving and adapting its legal framework to address contemporary challenges
and uphold the principles of justice and human right.

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