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The Government of India Act 1858 is also known as ‘An act for the better governance of India 1858.’In August 1858, less than a month after the revolt of 1857 was lost by the Indian side, and the British parliament passed the Government of India Act 1858. In the Government of India Act 1858 UPSC notes, we will briefly discuss the history of the act, along with some of its provisions. 

A Brief History of the Government India Act 1858 

  • With the passing of this act, the East India Company transferred its power over India to the British. The transfer seemed necessary due to the Revolt of 1857 and the East India Company’s ineptitude to run India effectively. 
  • Many people in Britain felt that the ineffective policies of the Company were the reason behind the revolt. 
  • The Government of India Act 1858 was also known as “An Act for the Better Government of India 1858,” got royal permission of the Queen in August and became a law on 1st November 1858.  

Provisions of the Government of India Act of 1858 

  • Under this act, any Indian territory governed by the Company was now under the control of the Queen. 
  • The British East India Company was liquidated and ceased to exist. 
  • The Governor-General and the Viceroy were to act as the British representatives in India. The Queen would appoint the Viceroy and the governors of all the presidencies. 
  • The Viceroy and the Governor-General of India were the same person and were assisted by an executive council. 
  • The act abolished the Court of Directors and the Board of Control. Through the provisions of this act, the powers vested in the Court of Directors were transferred to the Secretary of State. 
  • This act officially established the British colonization of India. 
  • Under this act, Indian princes and chiefs could enjoy their status if they proclaimed loyalty to the British crown and administration. 
  • For better administration of the country, the Indian Civil Services would be instituted. The act allowed Indians to become a part of the civil services. 

The Government of India Act 1858 is included in the UPSC Indian Polity and Governance syllabus. We hope that you liked our summary of the act. For more UPSC preparation study material, mock trials, and online one-on-one tutoring, visit Unacademy.