Which one of the following personalities advocated western education for Indians in the early nineteenth century?

Correct option is A

Raja Ram Mohan Roy was a prominent social reformer of the early 19th century who strongly advocated for Western education in India. He believed that Western education, particularly in the fields of science, mathematics, and rational thinking, was essential for modernizing Indian society and eliminating regressive practices like superstition and caste discrimination.
Key Contributions:
1. Advocacy for Modern Education: He emphasized the importance of teaching science, mathematics, and English to replace traditional education systems focused primarily on religious texts.
2. Petition for English Education (1823): Raja Ram Mohan Roy submitted a petition to the Governor-General, opposing the establishment of Sanskrit colleges and urging the promotion of Western education.
3. Establishment of Institutions: Played a key role in the establishment of the Hindu College (1817) in Calcutta, which became a center for Western education in India.
Information Booster:
1. Raja Ram Mohan Roy’s Legacy: Known as the "Father of the Indian Renaissance" for his efforts to modernize Indian society.
2. Western Education: Introduced subjects like science and rational philosophy to challenge orthodox traditions.
3. Impact: His advocacy paved the way for a generation of educated Indians who later played key roles in India’s independence movement.
Additional Knowledge:
1. (b) Lord Hardinge: A British official in the mid-19th century who focused on administrative reforms rather than advocating for education.
2. (c) Mahatma Gandhi: Advocated for basic education rooted in Indian traditions and crafts (Nai Talim), opposing excessive reliance on Western education.
3. (d) Rabindranath Tagore: Focused on holistic education through institutions like Visva-Bharati, emphasizing Indian traditions, art, and creativity alongside global ideas.