Q. Of the following, who were given preference in recruitment as Indian soldiers after the Revolt of 1857?
(a) Gurkhas, Sikhs
(b) Bengalis from the east
(c) Yadavs of U.P. and Bihar
(d) Marathas from the Deccan
Ans: (a) Gurkhas, Sikhs
Explanation: After the Revolt of 1857, preference in recruitment as Indian soldiers was given to (a) Gurkhas and Sikhs.
The British authorities implemented certain reforms in the recruitment process for Indian soldiers after the Revolt of 1857. They sought to reduce the risk of another large-scale rebellion and decided to focus on recruiting troops from regions or communities that were perceived to be loyal to the British. Gurkhas from Nepal and Sikhs from Punjab were among those given preference in recruitment.
Gurkhas, known for their bravery and military skills, had a long-standing association with the British and had been serving in the British Indian Army prior to the revolt. Sikhs, too, had a reputation for their martial prowess and had played a significant role in the British military campaigns in India.
By prioritizing the recruitment of Gurkhas and Sikhs, the British aimed to have a reliable and loyal force to maintain control and protect their interests in India.
