UPSC Prelims 2002 Q62: Modern History – Constitutional Developments & British Plans (1909 - 1947)
Which one of the following Acts of British India strengthened the Viceroy’s authority over
his executive council by substituting the “portfolio” or departmental system for corporate
functioning?
- (a) Indian Council Act, 1861
- (b) Government of India Act, 1858
- (c) Indian Councils Act, 1892
- (d) Indian Councils Act, 1909
Answer: (a) Indian Council Act, 1861
Explanation
Act that introduced the portfolio system
| Act | Feature |
|---|---|
| Indian Councils Act, 1861 | Introduced the portfolio system in the Viceroy's Executive Council; added non-official members for legislation |
| Government of India Act, 1858 | Transferred power to the Crown; created the Secretary of State |
| Indian Councils Act, 1892 | Enlarged the councils; indirect election principle |
| Indian Councils Act, 1909 | Morley-Minto reforms; separate electorates |
The Indian Councils Act of 1861 (Canning) placed the members of the Viceroy's council in charge of separate departments, the portfolio system, which strengthened the Viceroy's authority over his executive council. The later Acts dealt with representation.
Answer: (a) Indian Council Act, 1861.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. The 1861 Act introduced the portfolio system.
- (b) Incorrect. The 1858 Act transferred power to the Crown.
- (c) Incorrect. The 1892 Act enlarged the legislative councils.
- (d) Incorrect. The 1909 Act introduced separate electorates.
Key point
1861 Act: portfolio system, legislative powers to Bombay and Madras restored, Lord Canning.
Remember
Indian Councils Act, 1861 = portfolio system.
Common mistakes
- Choosing 1858 because it also concerns the executive.
- Mixing the portfolio system with dyarchy of 1919.
- Linking the portfolio system with the 1909 reforms.
Exam tip
Portfolio system plus Canning points to the Indian Councils Act of 1861.
Sources
- Bipan Chandra — Modern India
- Laxmikanth — Indian Polity