Question

Who was the Governor General of Bengal when the Permanent Settlement was introduced there in 1793?

• A. Warren Hastings
• B. Cornwallis
• C. Buchanan
• D. Ripon

Hint:

Remember: Permanent Settlement = Cornwallis (1793). Ryotwari = Munro (Madras). Mahalwari = Holt Mackenzie (NW Provinces).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Permanent Settlement.
The Permanent Settlement of Bengal was introduced in 1793 as a revenue system by the British. It fixed the land revenue to be paid by zamindars to the British government permanently.
Step 2: Role of the Governor General.
Lord Cornwallis, the Governor General of Bengal from 1786 to 1793, implemented this system in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa. He is often remembered for his role in administrative and judicial reforms.
Step 3: Elimination of options.
- (A) Warren Hastings: Earlier Governor General, but Permanent Settlement was not introduced under him.
- (B) Cornwallis: Correct — he introduced the system in 1793.
- (C) Buchanan: Not related to this policy.
- (D) Ripon: Came much later (1880s).
Conclusion: The Governor General at the time was Cornwallis.