Question

When was the capital of India shifted from Calcutta to Delhi?

• A. 1909
• B. 1910
• C. 1911
• D. 1912

Hint:

Remember: 1911 Delhi Durbar = Capital shift + annulment of Bengal partition. Implementation of new capital began in 1912.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Context.
Initially, Calcutta (now Kolkata) was the capital of British India. However, due to administrative and political reasons, the British decided to shift the capital.
Step 2: Decision.
At the Delhi Durbar of 1911, attended by King George V, it was formally announced that the capital would be shifted from Calcutta to Delhi.
Step 3: Implementation.
Although the decision was announced in 1911, the actual construction of New Delhi (designed by Lutyens and Baker) was completed later, and the new capital became functional in 1912.
Step 4: Analyze options.
- (A) 1909: Incorrect, before the decision.
- (B) 1910: Incorrect.
- (C) 1911: Correct, year of Delhi Durbar and official announcement.
- (D) 1912: Year the shift was implemented, but announcement made in 1911.
Step 5: Conclusion.
The capital was shifted from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911.