Lord Curzon’s approach to governance reflected a deliberate attempt to curtail Indian political consciousness. In this light, analyze the significance of the Indian Universities Act (1904) and Calcutta Municipal Amendment Act (1899).

Answer:

Approach to the answer:

The Lord Curzon, the viceroy of British India from 1899 to 1905, is the subject of the question. Here, we must discuss how Lord Curzon’s policies continue to plague India and, in part, provide solutions to some of its current issues.

Introduction: We can either introduce the answer by outlining Lord Curzon’s identity or by discussing his policies.

From 1899 until 1905, British Conservative statesman Lord Curzon held the position of Viceroy of India. Several of the policies and initiatives he implemented during his term had a long-lasting effect on India, some of which are still felt today.

Body: Since the instruction is comment-based, we must discuss the Curzon administration’s heinous policies in the first section and then discuss how they are currently affecting India in the second.

Lord Curzon separated Punjab, which has historical significance and is still a part of Pakistan, to form the North-West Frontier Province in 1901.
In order to secure sole colonial influence in Tibet, Britain attempted two invasions in 1888 and 1903–1904. As a result, India had cross-border difficulties in its dealings with Tibet.
Lord Curzon made an effort to quell the middle class’s rising political ambitions in India. The Calcutta Municipal Amendment Act, 1899, which he passed, decreased the number of elected officials in the Calcutta Corporation.

Conclusion: We can either state the long-term effects of Lord Curzon’s policy on India or provide a summary of the body section’s points.

In India, Lord Curzon’s time as viceroy left a mixed impact. His policies accidentally spurred the Indian Freedom Struggle even as they restricted freedom and encouraged communalism. Furthermore, some of his ideas provide important insights for agricultural reforms and contemporary Indian foreign policy.

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Practice Question:

Question: “Restricting education and freedom of expression to maintain colonial dominance remains a cautionary tale for democratic governance.” Reflect with reference to Lord Curzon’s press and education policies.

Mains PYQs

Question: Evaluate the policies of Lord Curzon and their long term implications on the national movement. (UPSC IAS 2020)

MCQs PYQs

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Question: With reference to Swadeshi Movement, consider the following statements: (2019)

It contributed to the revival of the indigenous artisan crafts and industries.
The National Council of Education was established as a part of Swadeshi Movement.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (c)

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