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Q62 (IAS/2002) History & Culture › National Movement (1857–1947) › Constitutional reforms acts Answer Verified

Which one of the following Acts of British India strengthened the Viceroy’s authority over his executive council by substituting “portfolio” or departmental system for corporate functioning?

Result
Your answer: —  ·  Correct: A
Explanation

The Indian Councils Act of 1861 introduced the portfolio (departmental) system by reorganising the Governor‑General’s Executive Council into a cabinet‑like body with members assigned to specific departments, replacing the earlier corporate mode of functioning and thereby strengthening the Viceroy’s authority over his council [2]. The Act also provided for nomination of non‑official members and distinguished legislative from executive meetings, but retained executive primacy—so departmentalisation increased central control and administrative efficiency under the Viceroy’s leadership [1]. These provisions mark the 1861 Act as the statute that substituted the portfolio system for corporate functioning in British India.

Sources

  1. [2] https://www.cbc.gov.in/cbcdev/crown/crown2.html
  2. [1] Introduction to the Constitution of India, D. D. Basu (26th ed.). > Chapter 1: THE HISTORICAL BACKGROUND > Utility of a Historical Retrospect. > p. 3
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