Question 76
1. Charter Act of 1813
2. General Committee of Public Instruction, 1823
3. Orientalist and Anglicist Controversy
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
AOptions
BSolution
The introduction and establishment of English Education in India were the result of a series of developments and controversies:
1. Charter Act of 1813: This Act was a significant turning point as it explicitly sanctioned a sum of one lakh rupees annually for the revival and improvement of literature and the encouragement of the learned natives of India, and for the introduction and promotion of a knowledge of the sciences among the inhabitants of the British territories in India. While it didn't specify English education directly, it opened the door for governmental intervention in education and led to subsequent debates on the medium of instruction.
2. General Committee of Public Instruction, 1823: This Committee was formed to manage the funds sanctioned by the Charter Act of 1813. It became the focal point of the debate between Orientalists and Anglicists regarding the direction of education in India. Initially, Orientalists dominated, favoring traditional Indian learning in classical languages, but the stage was set for a shift.
3. Orientalist and Anglicist Controversy: This was a major intellectual debate that arose within the General Committee of Public Instruction and the broader British administration. The Orientalists advocated for the promotion of traditional Indian learning through Sanskrit, Persian, and Arabic. The Anglicists, led by figures like Lord Macaulay, strongly argued for the introduction of Western sciences and literature through the medium of English. Macaulay's 'Minute on Indian Education' (1835) strongly favored English education, which was subsequently adopted by Lord William Bentinck's resolution of 1835, officially making English the medium of instruction for government education. This effectively settled the controversy in favour of English education.
All three points collectively contributed to the eventual introduction and dominance of English education in India.
CStrategy
For questions involving historical developments, especially policy changes or movements, it is crucial to understand the chronological sequence and the interconnectedness of events, acts, and committees. Analyze how each component contributed to the overall outcome. Look for direct influences and underlying debates that shaped the policy.
DSyllabus Analysis
This question falls under Indian History, specifically Modern Indian History, focusing on the development of education during the British colonial period.
EQuestion Analysis
Medium. It requires a detailed understanding of the timeline and context surrounding the introduction of English education, including specific acts and key controversies.