Prelims 2026 · Q17
Consider the following statements regarding the British policy in Awadh immediately after its annexation in 1856:
- 1.The taluqdars were dispossessed of their estates but allowed to retain their arms and forts.
- 2.A Summary Revenue Settlement was made in 1856 assuming that the taluqdars were outsiders.
- 3.The British believed in taking revenue directly from the peasants by removing the taluqdars.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)2 and 3 only
- (b)1 and 3 only
- (c)1, 2 and 3
- (d)2 only
Show answer
UPSC's provisional answer: (a)
NCERT answers it: Class 12 Themes in Indian History, Part III, Theme 10 (Rebels and the Raj: The Revolt of 1857 and Its Representations).
Class 12 Themes in Indian History, Part III, Theme 10: after annexation the taluqdars were disarmed and their forts destroyed (1 false). The 1856 Summary Settlement treated them as interlopers (2), and removing them was meant to settle land with its actual owners (3). Answer (a).
Hindi version: UPSC's official question paper (2026), question 17 ↗