The correct answer is: a) Direct settlement with peasants.
The Ryotwari system was a land revenue system introduced by the British East India Company in the late 18th century. Under this system, the Company collected revenue directly from the peasants, rather than through intermediaries such as zamindars. This system was designed to increase the Company’s revenue and to give peasants more control over their land.
The Ryotwari system was initially successful in increasing revenue, but it also led to a number of problems. One problem was that the Company often set the revenue rates too high, which led to peasant unrest. Another problem was that the Company did not provide adequate support to the peasants, which led to widespread poverty.
The Ryotwari system was eventually replaced by other land revenue systems, but it remains an important part of Indian history.
Option b) Revenue collection through zamindars is incorrect because the Ryotwari system involved direct settlement with peasants, not through intermediaries.
Option c) Communal ownership of land is incorrect because the Ryotwari system was based on individual ownership of land.
Option d) Abolition of private land ownership is incorrect because the Ryotwari system did not abolish private land ownership.