Question 7 from UPSC CSE 2016 - Modern
History

Question

The Montague-Chelmsford Proposals were related to

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. constitutional reforms

Strategy: The 'Montagu-Chelmsford Proposals' are directly associated with the constitutional reforms that culminated in the Government of India Act, 1919. Recognizing this direct historical link immediately points to 'constitutional reforms' as the correct answer. The other options pertain to specific policy areas, but the Montagu-Chelmsford framework was about the fundamental structure of governance.

Key Info: ## Montagu-Chelmsford Proposals and the Government of India Act, 1919

**Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms/Proposals (1918)**
These proposals formed the basis for the Government of India Act of 1919. They were drafted by Edwin Montagu, the Secretary of State for India, and Lord Chelmsford, the Viceroy of India.

**Objective**
The primary aim was the 'progressive realization of responsible government in India as an integral part of the British Empire.' This declaration, known as the Montagu Declaration, was made on August 20, 1917.

**Constitutional Reforms**
The proposals were fundamentally constitutional in nature, introducing significant changes to the administrative and legislative structure in British India.

**Key Features of the Government of India Act, 1919**
Based on these proposals, the act included several key features:
- **Dyarchy in Provinces:** Divided provincial subjects into 'Reserved' (administered by the Governor and his Executive Council without legislative responsibility) and 'Transferred' (administered by the Governor acting with ministers responsible to the Legislative Council).
- **Expansion of Legislative Councils:** Increased the size and elected majority of both central and provincial legislative councils.
- **Central Legislature:** Introduced a bicameral central legislature (Legislative Assembly and Council of State).
- **Separate Electorates:** Extended separate electorates for Sikhs, Indian Christians, Anglo-Indians, and Europeans.
- **Public Service Commission:** Provided for the establishment of a Central Public Service Commission.
- **Indian High Commissioner:** Provision for a High Commissioner for India in London.

**Historical Context**
These reforms were a response to growing nationalist demands in India and the need for greater Indian participation in administration, particularly after World War I.

Answer

Option A: social reforms

Answer

Option B: educational reforms

Answer

Option C: reforms in police administration