Question

The foundation of modem education system in India was laid by

• A. Macaulay's Minutes of 1835
• B. Wood's Despatch of 1854
• C. The Charter Act of 1813
• D. The Hunter Commission of 1882

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The foundation of the modern education system in India was laid by Macaulay's Minutes of 1835. Let's explore why this is the correct answer and understand the context of the other options:

1. Macaulay's Minutes of 1835: In 1835, Lord Macaulay introduced his famous 'Minutes on Indian Education,' which advocated for the promotion of Western education in the English language. The primary focus was on imparting European knowledge and sciences, with an emphasis on creating an Indian class that was "Indian in blood and color, but English in taste, opinions, morals, and intellect." This marked a significant shift from the traditional Indian education system to a Western-centered approach, laying the foundation for the modern education system.
2. Wood's Despatch of 1854: While Wood's Despatch was indeed significant, it was more of a follow-up and expansion of Macaulay's ideas. The Despatch recommended the establishment of universities in major cities, regularization of education, and the creation of a system of grants-in-aid to private English schools.
3. The Charter Act of 1813: This act marked the first instance of state intervention in education in India by requiring the British East India Company to allocate funds for education. However, it did not lay the foundation for a modern education system but merely acknowledged the need for education.
4. The Hunter Commission of 1882: This commission focused on primary education and its expansion. While important, it was aimed at reforming and assessing the existing educational practices rather than laying the foundational framework of the education system.

In conclusion, Macaulay's Minutes of 1835 played a pivotal role in introducing Western-style education in India, establishing the groundwork for modern education, and influencing subsequent educational policies and reforms. This makes it the correct answer.