UPSC Prelims 2002 · General Studies
Question 62: History and Culture
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?
AnswerThe answer is (a).
The Indian Councils Act 1861 introduced the portfolio system, under which each member of the Viceroy's Executive Council was given charge of a department. This strengthened the Viceroy, who allotted the portfolios, and the council stopped working as one body on every matter. The Act also added non-official members to the legislative council. The 1858 Act moved rule to the Crown, and the 1892 and 1909 Acts widened the councils later.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Right: the 1861 Act introduced the portfolio system.
- (b) The 1858 Act transferred power from the Company to the Crown.
- (c) The 1892 Act enlarged the councils and allowed discussion of the budget.
- (d) The 1909 Morley-Minto Act enlarged the councils and brought in separate electorates for Muslims.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2002, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.