Certain measures of Dalhousie created serious discontent in India, whi

Certain measures of Dalhousie created serious discontent in India, which were also responsible for the revolt of 1857. Which of the following measures was *not* one of them ?

Doctrine of Lapse
Introduction of Railways and Telegraph
Abolition of titles and pensions of several rulers
Educational reforms
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CAPF – 2011
The correct option is B) Introduction of Railways and Telegraph.
While the introduction of Railways and Telegraph lines by Dalhousie was a significant modernization effort that served British strategic and economic interests and caused some social disruption, it was not a primary cause of the widespread discontent among Indian rulers, soldiers, and the populace that directly led to the Revolt of 1857 in the same way as the Doctrine of Lapse, abolition of titles and pensions, and perceived interference through educational reforms.
Lord Dalhousie’s administration (1848-1856) introduced several controversial policies. The Doctrine of Lapse led to the annexation of states like Satara, Nagpur, and Jhansi on the pretext of lack of a natural heir, causing immense resentment among Indian rulers. The abolition of titles and pensions of deposed rulers (like Nana Saheb) further fueled political discontent. Educational reforms and associated social changes were viewed with suspicion by traditional elements, who feared interference with their religion and customs. The introduction of Railways and Telegraph, while transformative, was primarily seen by Indians as serving the British rulers and not a direct cause of the specific type of political, social, or religious discontent that ignited the revolt. The immediate trigger was the greased cartridges issue, but the underlying causes included Dalhousie’s annexations and reforms.
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