Who introduced the Zamindari system?

The correct answer is Lord Cornwallis.

Key Points

• The Zamindari system was introduced by Lord Cornwallis in 1793 through the Permanent Settlement Act.
• It aimed to create a fixed revenue system where zamindars (landlords) collected taxes from peasants and paid a fixed amount to the British government.
• The system was implemented primarily in Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, and parts of Uttar Pradesh.
• Under the system, zamindars became hereditary owners of the land, while peasants were reduced to tenants.
• This system often resulted in exploitation of peasants due to high revenue demands and poor protection of their rights.

Additional Information

• Permanent Settlement Act:
  • Introduced in 1793 during Lord Cornwallis's tenure as Governor-General of India.
  • It was designed to ensure a steady revenue for the British East India Company.
  • Zamindars were given ownership rights, but the government retained the right to collect fixed revenue.
  • While zamindars gained wealth, peasants often faced harsh conditions.
• Ryotwari System:
  • Introduced by Sir Thomas Munro in parts of southern India.
  • Under this system, peasants (ryots) directly paid revenue to the government.
  • No intermediaries like zamindars were involved.
  • It was considered less exploitative compared to the Zamindari system.
• Mahalwari System:
  • Introduced during the British rule by Holt Mackenzie in 1822.
  • Implemented in the North-Western Provinces, Punjab, and parts of Central India.
  • Revenue was collected collectively from a village or mahal (estate).
  • It was a modified version of the Zamindari system.
• Impact of Zamindari System:
  • Led to widespread poverty and exploitation of peasants.
  • Created a wealthy zamindar class loyal to the British regime.
  • Contributed to the decline of agriculture due to high revenue demands.
  • Eventually abolished after India's independence under land reform policies.