UPSC Prelims 2002 · General Studies
Question 93: History and Culture
With which one of the following mountain tribes did the British first come into contact with after the grant of Diwani in the year 1765?
AnswerThe answer is (b).
The given answer is the Khasis. The Diwani brought the plains district of Sylhet under the Company, and the Khasi Hills lie directly to its north; trade in lime, betel nut and oranges between the hills and Sylhet put the Company in touch with the Khasis. Remember: Sylhet was the doorway between the Company's Bengal and the Khasi Hills.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) The Garos came into contact too, but the given answer does not name them first.
- (b) Right as given: the Khasis, through Sylhet.
- (c) Not the group named in the given answer; Kuki raids drew British attention later.
- (d) Not the group named in the given answer.
Worth knowing: The Garo Hills also adjoined districts the Company took in 1765, so the order of first contact is not clear-cut.
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.