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Q107 (CAPF/2021) History & Culture › National Movement (1857–1947) › British policies and administration Answer Verified

Initially, what was the purpose of setting up of the hill stations during the colonial period in India?

Result
Your answer: —  Â·  Correct: B
Explanation

Initially, hill stations in colonial India were established primarily to serve the strategic and health needs of the British army. Following the Gurkha War (1814–16) and subsequent conflicts, the British sought temperate climates to station troops away from the tropical diseases of the plains. These locations served as vital cantonments and sanatoria for soldiers to recover from illnesses [3]. While some hill stations like Shimla eventually became summer capitals [1], their foundational purpose was military and medical. The cool climate was perceived as essential for maintaining the physical efficiency of European troops, who were susceptible to malaria and cholera in the lowlands. This military-strategic origin is evidenced by the early development of stations like Shimla, Mount Abu, and Darjeeling as convalescent depots and strategic outposts for monitoring frontiers [2].

Sources

  1. [2] Exploring Society:India and Beyond ,Social Science, Class VIII . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 4: The Colonial Era in India > Reshaping economic structures to serve imperial needs > p. 104
  2. [3] Laxmikanth, M. Indian Polity. 7th ed., McGraw Hill. > Chapter 40: Municipalities > III Cantonment Board > p. 406
  3. [1] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 11: Industries > 2. Hill Stations > p. 92
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