Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction

• • Contextualize the question: Briefly introduce Lord Lytton and Lord Ripon, mentioning their roles as Viceroys of India.
  • Objective: Set the tone by stating that their policies reflect broader trends in British colonial governance, with Lytton representing repressive imperialism and Ripon symbolizing liberal reforms.

2. Body

The body should discuss their policies in relation to the larger trends in British colonial governance.

a) Policies of Lord Lytton

• Imperial Aggression: Discuss Lytton’s aggressive imperialism, particularly his role in the Second Afghan War (1878), which aimed at expanding British influence in Central Asia.
• Repressive Domestic Policies: Mention the Vernacular Press Act (1878), which severely curbed freedom of the Indian press to prevent anti-British sentiments.
• Famine Management: Highlight Lytton’s neglect during the famine of 1876-78, where his refusal to provide adequate relief worsened the crisis.
• Civil Service Reforms: Discuss his reduction in the age limit for the Indian Civil Services examination, which was seen as discriminatory and undermined the aspirations of educated Indians.

b) Policies of Lord Ripon

• • Reformist Approach: Discuss how Ripon’s policies shifted towards liberal reforms, such as his repeal of the Vernacular Press Act in 1882, which restored some freedom of the press.
  • Local Self-Government: Detail Ripon’s introduction of local self-government through district and municipal councils, which empowered Indians by giving them voting rights and positions in local administration.
  • Famine Relief and Tax Reforms: Contrast Ripon’s response to famines with Lytton’s, mentioning his abolition of the salt tax, a burden on the poor, and his more empathetic approach towards famine relief.
  • Educational Reforms: Discuss Ripon’s appointment of the Education Commission of 1882, chaired by Sir William Hunter, to review the progress of education and address shortcomings.

3. Analysis

• • Contrast the two approaches: Draw a comparison between Lytton’s repressive policies and Ripon’s reformist ones. Discuss how Lytton’s approach mirrored a more autocratic, colonial style of governance, while Ripon’s policies represented a shift toward limited political reform and local empowerment.
  • Broader Trends: Relate their policies to the broader trends in British colonial governance, which evolved from harsh control and suppression to tentative reforms aimed at co-opting local elites and mitigating unrest.

4. Conclusion

• • Summarize the impact: Conclude by stating that the policies of Lytton and Ripon reflect the transition in British colonial governance from a harsh, repressive regime to one that acknowledged the need for some reforms, primarily to maintain control while placating growing Indian demands for political representation.

Relevant Facts and Sources

1. Second Afghan War (1878)
   • Lytton’s military aggression in Afghanistan was part of the “Great Game” to secure British interests in Central Asia and prevent Russian expansion.
2. Vernacular Press Act (1878)
   • This act allowed the British to suppress the Indian press, curbing criticism of British rule and limiting freedom of speech.
3. Famine of 1876-78
   • During the famine, Lytton’s government was criticized for not providing sufficient relief. He believed famine relief should be minimal to discourage population growth.
4. Indian Civil Services Reforms
   • Lytton reduced the maximum age for the Civil Services exam from 21 to 19, which made it more difficult for Indians to enter the bureaucracy.
5. Repeal of Vernacular Press Act (1882)
   • Ripon repealed the act, signaling a more conciliatory approach to Indian demands for civil liberties.
6. Local Self-Government
   • Ripon’s reforms in local self-government included the establishment of local councils and granting Indians voting rights, marking a shift towards decentralization.
7. Abolition of Salt Tax
   • Ripon’s decision to abolish the salt tax was a significant move to reduce burdens on the poor, contrasting with Lytton’s insensitive approach during the famine.
8. Education Reforms
   • Ripon appointed the Hunter Commission in 1882 to assess the state of education, which had been heavily influenced by British policies since Wood’s Dispatch in 1854.