Q. During the colonial period in India, what was the purpose of the Whitley Commission?
(a) To review the fitness of India for further political reforms
(b) To report on the existing conditions of labour and to make recommendations
(c) To draw up a plan for financial reforms for India
(d) To develop a comprehensive scheme for Civil Services in India
Ans: (b) To report on the existing conditions of labour and to make recommendations
Explanation: The correct answer is (b) To report on the existing conditions of labour and to make recommendations.
The purpose of the Whitley Commission, officially known as the Royal Commission on Labour in India, was to investigate and report on the existing conditions of labour in India during the colonial period. The commission was established in 1929 and was led by Sir Montagu Whitley.
The commission’s primary focus was to assess the working conditions of laborers, both in industrial and agricultural sectors, and to make recommendations for improving their conditions. It studied various aspects such as wages, working hours, living conditions, and social welfare measures for workers.
The Whitley Commission’s report, commonly known as the Whitley Report, was published in 1931. It highlighted the exploitative conditions faced by workers and made several recommendations for improving their rights and welfare. The report played a significant role in shaping labor policies and legislation in India during the colonial period and beyond.
