During the British rule in India, when did transfer of capital from Calcutta to Delhi take place?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) 1911.

Explanation:

• The transfer of the capital from Calcutta (now Kolkata) to Delhi occurred in 1911 during British rule in India.
• The decision was made by the British government to shift the capital as part of their broader strategy for consolidating control over the Indian subcontinent.
• This decision was announced by King George V during the Delhi Durbar of 1911, which was a grand event held to celebrate his visit to India.
• The announcement was symbolic and politically significant, as it represented both the consolidation of British power in India and a shift in colonial strategy.

The new capital was chosen for several reasons:

1. Strategic Location: Delhi was geographically located in the center of India, making it more accessible from different parts of the country.
2. Historical Significance: Delhi was historically important and had been the capital of several major empires in India, including the Mughals. The British thought that it would be beneficial to have a capital in a city with such a rich history.
3. Security Concerns: Calcutta, located near the eastern border, was seen as vulnerable to attacks from the East (especially with the growing influence of Japan and other Eastern powers). Delhi's location was considered more secure.

Information Booster:

The first capital of British India was Calcutta (now Kolkata), chosen because of its proximity to the sea and the British-controlled trade routes in the Bay of Bengal.

• The shift to Delhi led to the construction of several new buildings and infrastructures, including the Rashtrapati Bhavan (originally called the Viceroy's House), the India Gate, and the central Secretariat, all of which are landmarks today.
• Delhi Durbar 1911 also marked the formal proclamation of the beginning of the reign of King George V as the Emperor of India.