Question

With reference to the growth of Indian Nationalism in the early phase, name a British viceroy who was very liberal in outlook and undid many repressive measures of his predecessor. Also discuss the role he played in the growth of Indian Nationalism.

Answer 1

Lord Ripon who was very liberal in outlook succeeded Lord Lytton as the Viceroy of India. Lord Ripon was responsible for many reforms which directly benefited the Indians. He lifted censorship on newspapers, by withdrawing the Vernacular Press Act of 1878. Though he could not succeed in getting the Ilbert Bill passed but he improved the service conditions of Indian judges. Among his notable contributions were end of Second Afghan War, raising the age limit form 19 to 21 for Indians to compete in Indian Civil Services; introduction of local self government in India, appointment of Hunter Commission on Education and Decentralisation of Finances.