what was the land revenue system in british india?

Answer 1

The land revenue system in British India, also known as the Permanent Settlement System, was introduced by the British East India Company in 1793. Under this system, land was divided into three categories: Zamindari, or landlord-owned, Ryotwari, or individual peasant-owned, and Mahalwari, or village community-owned.

In the Zamindari system, land revenue was collected by intermediaries known as Zamindars, who were responsible for collecting taxes from the peasants and paying a fixed amount to the British government. The Zamindars had hereditary rights over the land and could pass it on to their heirs.

In the Ryotwari system, land revenue was collected directly from individual peasant farmers, who were considered the owners of the land they worked on. This system was implemented in provinces like Madras and Bombay.

In the Mahalwari system, land revenue was collected from entire villages or communities, rather than individual landowners. This system was implemented in provinces like Punjab and North-Western Provinces.

Overall, the land revenue system in British India was characterized by high taxation rates, exploitation of peasant farmers, and a lack of economic development in rural areas. The system played a significant role in exacerbating poverty and discontent among the Indian population during British rule.