The Charter Act of 1833 was a significant event in the history of British India, which brought about major administrative and political reforms that had a lasting impact on the country. The act was passed by the British Parliament, and was intended to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the British East India Company’s administration in India.
Economic Reforms
| Reforms | Description |
|---|---|
| Abolition of Trade Monopoly | The East India Company’s monopoly on trade in India was abolished, allowing other British merchants and entrepreneurs to trade in India. |
| Powers of Governor-General and Council | The Governor-General and his Council were given vast powers, including the authority to legislate for the whole of India, subject to the approval of the Board of Controllers. |
| Single Budget for the Country | A single budget for the entire country was prepared by the Governor-General, which helped to improve the financial management of the British administration in India. |
| Reduction of East India Company | The East India Company was reduced to an administrative and political entity, and several Lords and Ministers were nominated as ex-officio members of the Board of Controllers. |
Administrative Reforms
- Enlargement of the powers of the Governor-General and his council
- Introduction of district collectors and magistrates
- Creation of a system of legislative councils
- Establishment of a system of courts, including a Supreme Court
Religious Reforms
- No particular religious reform was made in this act
Financial Reforms
- Empowerment of local autonomous bodies to levy taxes was not in this act.