Question

Write a note on Civil Service branch of the British administration in India.

Answer 1

Instructions: Explain the following points:

• Who introduced it?
• Methods of appointment
• Why Indians did not benefit much?

Solution:

• Lord Cornwallis introduced the administration of civil services.
• In 1800, Lord Cornwallis opened Fort William College in Calcutta for people who aspired to join Civil Services.
• But, the directors of the East India Companydid not support this. Consequently, all the appointments till 1853 were done by the directors.
• From 1853 onwards, the appointments for Civil Services were done through Competitive Examinations. This did not benefit Indians much.
• Lord Cornwallis believed “All the natives of Hindustan are completely corrupt”. Therefore, only lower grade jobs were given to Indians.