Which one of the following Acts of British India strengthened the Viceroy's authority over his Executive Council by substituting "Portfolio" or departmental system for corporate functioning?

Correct Option (A):

The Indian Councils Act, 1861, significantly strengthened the Viceroy's authority by introducing the 'Portfolio System'. Under this system, each member of the Viceroy's Executive Council was assigned a specific department, such as finance, law, military, or public works. This allowed for individual members to be responsible for their respective departments, fostering departmental functioning rather than corporate decision-making by the entire council on every matter. Lord Canning, who was Viceroy from 1856 to 1862, implemented this system, enhancing administrative efficiency and laying the foundation for a cabinet-style government in British India.

Incorrect Options:

• Government of India Act, 1858: This Act transferred the powers of the East India Company to the British Crown, establishing direct rule. It did not introduce the portfolio system.
• Indian Councils Act, 1892: This Act increased the number of additional members in the central and provincial legislative councils and introduced the principle of indirect election. It did not restructure the Executive Council or introduce the portfolio system.
• Indian Councils Act, 1909 (Morley-Minto Reforms): This Act introduced separate electorates for Muslims and expanded the size and functions of the legislative councils. It did not establish the portfolio system.