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Lord Ripon as a Progressive Viceroy of India

Lord Ripon, who served as the Viceroy of India from 1880 to 1884, is widely regarded as one of the most progressive British rulers in India due to his reforms that spanned social, economic, and political spheres. His tenure was marked by a response to the challenges faced by India, such as widespread famine, regressive taxation, and growing anti-imperialist sentiment. His actions aimed to improve the lives of Indians and address the grievances of the time.

Key Reforms Initiated by Lord Ripon

1. First Factories Act (1881): Lord Ripon passed the First Factories Act, a significant step toward improving labor conditions in India. The Act prohibited the employment of children under seven years and limited the working hours for children under 12 years. It also mandated breaks and monthly holidays for factory workers, improving their quality of life.
2. Repeal of the Vernacular Press Act (1882): The Vernacular Press Act of 1878 had severely restricted the freedom of the press, especially in vernacular languages, to prevent criticism of British policies. Ripon repealed this act, ensuring that the Indian press could function freely, fostering greater political awareness among the Indian population.
3. Economic Decentralization: Ripon promoted financial decentralization, creating a more balanced distribution of revenue sources between the imperial and provincial governments. This allowed provinces greater control over their finances, laying the foundation for future fiscal autonomy.
4. Introduction of Local Self-Government (1882): The Resolution of 1882 initiated by Lord Ripon aimed at establishing elected local councils across India, empowering local communities to manage their affairs. This reform helped build the groundwork for self-governance in India.
5. The Ilbert Bill (1883): The Ilbert Bill sought to remove racial discrimination from the Indian Penal Code, allowing Indian judges to try British criminals in criminal cases. Though it faced strong opposition, Ripon’s support of the bill marked a stand against racial prejudices in the colonial judicial system.
6. Educational and Land Reforms: Lord Ripon focused on improving education in India, emphasizing the need for expanded primary education. Additionally, he addressed the grievances of peasants through the Rent Commission and worked towards passing the Bengal Tenancy Act.

Due to these efforts, Lord Ripon is remembered as a compassionate and progressive Viceroy who worked towards the welfare of Indians and the reform of India’s administrative system. His policies laid the groundwork for future self-governance and a more inclusive approach to governance.