Question

The Great Outbreak of 1857 brought about important changes in the character of Indian administration and the future development of the country. In this context discuss:
(a) The changes introduced in the administrative set-up of the British territories in India.
(b) India's economic exploitation.
(c) Changes in the Army.

Answer 1

(a) The changes introduced in the administrative set-up of the British territories in India- The most significant result of the uprising of 1857 was the end of East India Company rule and the assumption of the Government of India directly by the Crown. It transferred the power to govern Indian from the East India Company to the British Crown. While the authority over India was earlier in the hand of the Directors of the Company and the Board of control, now the power was to be exercised by the Secretary of State for India, aided by a Council.

(b) India's economic exploitation- The uprising of 1857 end the era of territorial expansion and ushered in the era of economic exploitation. India was turned into a typical colonial economy, exporting raw material and importing finished goods. The salary and allowances of the secretary of state and members of the India Council, the civil servants, and military officers were a large drain on the country's resources.

(c) Changes in the Army- the India army was reorganised after 1858, to prevent the reoccurrence of another uprising. The strength of European troops in India was increased. The general principle adopted was that the number of Indians sepoys should not exceed twice that of the European troops.