Lord Dalhousie and its major reforms the development of modern India
Lord Dalhousie was an imperialist. His annexations were both of ‘War’ and ‘Peace’. He annexed many territories such as Satara (1848), Jhansi (1854), etc. through the policy of Doctrine of Lapse. However, he introduced a number of reforms which paved the way for the modernisation of India and also earned the title, “Maker of the Modern India”.
Reforms Under Lord Dalhousie
Introduction of Railways: He introduced railways in India in 1853. The first railways started from Bombay to Thane in his time.
Improved Communication System: He was known as the father of the Telegraph and Postal Service. During his tenure 4000 miles of Telegraph was set up to connect Calcutta, Bombay and Madras. He brought significant reforms in the Postal Services.
Education Reform: Dalhousie had a strong personal commitment to the establishment of a national system of education in India. He ensured the successful administration of the provisions contained in the 1854 Wood’s dispatch.
Social Reform: He acknowledged the fight of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar and drafted the Widow Remarriage Act in 1856.
Military Reform: He combined the British Indian Army and established their headquarters in Meerut.
Agricultural Reform: To improve agriculture he developed a canal system for a better irrigation system.
Thus, despite the Doctrine, Lord Dalhousie is often regarded as the “Maker of Modern India”. Lord Dalhousie played a pivotal role in not only improving the governance but also, he put emphasis and worked for the overall betterment of the society and thus sometimes he is regarded as the founder of Modern India.