Who introduced the system of Mahalwari Settlement in Bengal?
- ALord Hastings
- BLord Cornwallis
- CHolt Mackenzie
- DMore than one of the above
- ENone of the above
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: (c) Holt Mackenzie
Explanation
In 1822, Holt Mackenzie prepared a new method of land-revenue administration, the Mahalwari system, in the Bengal Presidency of the North Western Province (most of this area lies in present-day Uttar Pradesh). In this system, nearly 30% of British India’s land area was included, along with the Central Provinces and Punjab. The Mahalwari system contained elements of both the Zamindari and Ryotwari systems. In the asked question, the word “Bengal” has been used, which is incorrect; instead, the term “Bengal Presidency” is more appropriate. Therefore, option (c) is correct. The Bihar Public Service Commission also considered option (c) as correct in both its original and revised answer keys.