Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction: Briefly introduce the importance of compassion in society, particularly towards weaker sections. Highlight India’s diverse socio-economic fabric and the necessity of inclusive development. Body: 1. Significance of Compassion in India: Definition of Compassion: Compassion is an active concern for others’ suffering, ...
Model Answer Disillusionment with the Permanent Settlement The Permanent Settlement introduced by Lord Cornwallis in 1793 aimed to stabilize revenue collection by assigning zamindars to collect fixed revenue. However, the system faced significant challenges: Loss of income for the Company: Fixed revRead more
Model Answer
Disillusionment with the Permanent Settlement
The Permanent Settlement introduced by Lord Cornwallis in 1793 aimed to stabilize revenue collection by assigning zamindars to collect fixed revenue. However, the system faced significant challenges:
- Loss of income for the Company: Fixed revenue rates led to financial strain as expenses rose, notably from 1798 to 1806 when military expenses diverted funds meant for trade goods【Fact 1】.
- Higher default by zamindars: The fixed tax burden led to widespread defaults, with 68% of zamindari land in Bengal sold between 1794 and 1819 due to the inability to meet tax demands【Fact 2】.
- No improvement in productivity: Zamindars, unmotivated by the fixed rates, did not invest in land improvements, failing to meet the British expectation of increased productivity.
- Peasant oppression: The system led to heavy rent burdens on peasants, who faced eviction and exploitation, resulting in widespread discontent.
Lessons Learned and Shift to Alternative Systems
The failures of the Permanent Settlement highlighted the need for more flexible and responsive land revenue models, which led to the development of alternative systems:
- Ryotwari System: Introduced in South India by Thomas Munro and Captain Alexander Read, this system established a direct relationship between the state and cultivators (ryots). It involved a field-by-field assessment, where revenue officials determined tax rates based on soil quality and land area. Unlike the Permanent Settlement, this system allowed for periodic revisions to adjust revenue demands.
- Mahalwari System: Developed by Holt Mackenzie and later modified by Robert Merttins Bird, this system assessed revenue collectively for a village or group of villages. Like the Ryotwari system, it allowed for periodic revisions to accommodate changing economic conditions.
These lessons from the Permanent Settlement led to more adaptable systems that aimed to reduce the oppressive impact on peasants while maintaining a steady revenue stream for the British.
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Model Answer 1. Fostering Inclusive Development Compassionate governance ensures that marginalized groups such as rural poor, women, and children receive equal access to opportunities and government schemes. A prominent example is Ramesh Gholap, IAS, who through the initiative "Sarkar Aapke Dwar," eRead more
Model Answer
1. Fostering Inclusive Development
Compassionate governance ensures that marginalized groups such as rural poor, women, and children receive equal access to opportunities and government schemes. A prominent example is Ramesh Gholap, IAS, who through the initiative “Sarkar Aapke Dwar,” ensures that rural communities, particularly the disadvantaged, can access government schemes. This demonstrates how compassionate leadership bridges developmental gaps and improves the quality of life for vulnerable populations.
2. Building Social Cohesion
Compassion also plays a key role in promoting social cohesion and preventing conflicts. Civil servants like IAS officer Divya Devarajan in Telangana have worked compassionately with tribal communities to address grievances and ensure justice. Her efforts in resolving issues have fostered trust among the tribes, preventing tensions from escalating and enhancing social harmony.
3. Building Trust in Governance
Compassionate actions from civil servants strengthen the relationship between the government and its citizens. In Siaha district, IAS officer Bhupesh Chaudhary provided practical solutions to farmers’ issues, showing a genuine understanding of their needs. Such actions build trust in the government by demonstrating a commitment to the welfare of its people.
4. Fostering Sustainable Change
Beyond immediate relief, compassion leads to long-term solutions. Harshika Singh, IAS, in Madhya Pradesh, addressed deep-rooted issues like illiteracy and lack of opportunities for women. Her initiatives aimed at empowering women through education and skill-building highlight the importance of compassion in driving sustainable, transformative change.
In conclusion, compassion is a cornerstone of effective governance in India. It ensures the inclusion of marginalized communities, promotes social stability, and fosters long-term development.
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