GS1 · 10 marks · 150 words

"Colonial education policy, intended to create obedient clerks, became a channel for political awakening and national self-assertion." Discuss

Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2025

Syllabus: Modern Indian History- Mid-18th century - Present (significant events, personalities, issues);

How toppers approached it

From all 4 answers · about 210 words · 25% drew a diagram.

Opening

  • No separate opening2 of 4
  • A quotation2 of 4

Body

  • Points3 of 4
  • Points and prose1 of 4

Close

  • A summary3 of 4
  • A way forward1 of 4

The toppers’ answers

Raghav JhunjhunwalaAIR 4 · CSE 2025 · 143 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening

colonial Education policy was aimed at creating obedient clerks, and 'Brown Sahibs' for colonial interest

Body · points and prose

Diagram
Intention to create obedient clerks → (1) English language only → (2) Exams held abroad for high posts like civil services → (3) serve in British Administration → (4) Not egalitarian/No objective for masses

Channel for Political awakening & self Assertion

(1) Development of press used by leaders to propagate nationalistic materials. Ex: Tilak's Mahratta

(2) Development of Railways & Transport helped in propagation of material.

(3) Increased literacy helped to educated the masses better.

(4) Exposure to western liberal values like freedom, Equality, etc ignited spirits.

(5) Access to world history like French and American Revolution inspired masses.

(6) Knowledge about India's rich past Ex: Indus valley, Gupta Age shed inferiority complex.

(7) led & Inspired development of Indic Institutions Ex: Sanskrit college, etc

(8) moderates used pamphlets & posters for 3-P :

Diagram
Prayer / \ Petition Propaganda

Close · a way forward

Despite challenges like Vernacular Press Act 1878, Indians asserted themselves.

The Recent NEP 2020 tries to overcome the colonial baggage of education into a comprehensive development of learner.

More on Modern Indian History

Mid-18th century onwards: British expansion, administration, economy and social change.

All GS1 questions on Modern Indian History