India Step-Mother

This book contains the reminiscences of Sir Claude H. Hill who had long association with Indian dating back from 1895 to 1920 in various capacities as Collector of Ahmedabad, Residents of Hyderabad and Udaipur, Under Secy. To Govt. of Indas, Member of Council, Bombay, Member of Viceroy’s picture of Indian characteristic and outlook on his close and friendly relations with many Indians, differing in race, caste and creed. Description of events and places provides fascinating reading and the anecdote on delightful characters are a treat. The book provides not only the backdrop of the Indian problem but an informed glimpse in the functions of Govt. of India; local Govt. of Provinces; Statutory bodies operating under the local Govt.; role of Collector–the embodiment of ‘Sarkar’; various revenue systems in Provinces; contrast in the administration of ancient despotic States of Hyderabad and Udaipur; shifting of Capital from Calcutta; famine and epidemic of plague and their combating problems; introduction of Western System of education and its impact; problem of social relationship between Englishmen and Indians. According to author, the British could only give institutions to Indians with which they were familiar and the reforms of 1919 which refashioned the Govt. edifice, in course of times enable Indians to forge a mechanism of Govt, really suited to India’s need. This reprint will interest scholars and students of History, Political Science and Public Administration and provides fascinating reading to general readership alike.