Write a short note on the following East India Company officials and their contributions : (i) Sir Thomas Munro
In short
Sir Thomas Munro introduced the Ryotwari system in the Bara Mahals and ceded districts, collecting revenue directly from cultivators, and surveyed Rayalaseema between 1802 and 1807. He suppressed the poligars, led the Judicial Commission (1814-1818) and repaired tanks during famine, though his rule was paternalistic.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 270 words
Ryotwari System Pioneer
Munro introduced the Ryotwari system in the ceded districts, enabling direct revenue collection from cultivators and granting peasants rights to sell or mortgage land, transforming land administration in Rayalaseema.
Survey and Revenue Settlement
Between 1802 and 1807, Munro conducted comprehensive surveys fixing revenue assessments, which remain crucial for land disputes and revenue collection.
Judicial Commission Leadership
As President of the Judicial Commission (1814-1818), Munro recommended transferring police supervision from judges to collectors and appointing village officials for petty crimes, improving local justice administration.
Poligar Suppression
Munro helped pacify lawless poligars with military support, stabilizing the ceded districts for effective governance.
Famine Relief and Agricultural Support
During 1802-1803 droughts, Munro ordered irrigation repairs and advanced loans to ryots, reflecting agrarian welfare concerns amid colonial revenue pressures.
Limitations of Paternalism
His authoritarian governance excluded Indian political participation, limiting social empowerment despite administrative gains.
Educational Initiatives
Munro proposed schools across Madras Presidency, including Andhra Pradesh, but lack of government support led to missionary dominance in education.
Strengthen Local Governance
Empower village officials with autonomy and resources to build on Munro’s administrative model.
Promote Agrarian Welfare
Implement credit and irrigation schemes addressing colonial-era agrarian vulnerabilities.
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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2023 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.