Who were the key figures behind the recommendations that formed the basis of the Government of India Act, 1919?

The correct answer is Lord Chelmsford and Edwin Montagu.

Key Points

• Lord Chelmsford served as the Viceroy of India from 1916 to 1921.
• Edwin Montagu was the Secretary of State for India from 1917 to 1922.
• The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms were introduced in 1918 and formed the basis of the Government of India Act, 1919.
• The reforms aimed to increase Indian participation in governance by introducing a dual system of administration known as "Dyarchy."
• The Government of India Act, 1919, laid the foundation for further constitutional developments in India.

Additional Information

• Dyarchy
  • Dyarchy was a system of double government introduced by the Government of India Act, 1919.
  • Under Dyarchy, provincial subjects were divided into "transferred" and "reserved" categories.
  • Transferred subjects were administered by Indian ministers, while reserved subjects remained under British officials.
• Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms
  • The reforms sought to gradually introduce self-governance in India.
  • It aimed to increase Indian control over domestic affairs while retaining British control over defense and foreign policy.
  • The reforms led to the establishment of legislative councils at the provincial and central levels.
• Government of India Act, 1919
  • Enacted to implement the recommendations of the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms.
  • Provided for a bicameral legislature at the central level.
  • Marked a significant step towards self-governance in British India.
• Impact on Indian National Movement
  • Although the reforms were seen as a step forward, they were criticized for not granting full self-governance.
  • Led to increased political activity and the formation of various political groups.
  • Set the stage for further constitutional reforms leading up to independence.