British Administrative Policies (1818-1829): Continuity and Change (Captain H.D. Robertson in the Pune District)

This study of British administrative policies in India focuses on their policies in the Maratha country after the defeat of the Peshwas, from 1818 to 1829. It views the transition from Peshwa’s Pune to British Pune under Henry Dundas Robertson who was appointed provisional collector, magistrate and judge of the Poona Collectorate and who administered the Pune territory. It discusses his administration of British policies on social and economic issues based on study of documents and correspondence in English and Marathi among other sources. It throws light on Robertson’s contributions towards eradication of sati, working for better conditions in jails, encouraging welfare of the people at large, making the judiciary more efficient and in general bringing about a smooth transition from Maratha rule to British control.