Lord Canning announced a Durbar after the Revolt of 1857 at:

The correct answer is Allahabad.

Key Points

• Lord Canning, the first Viceroy of India, announced a Durbar at Allahabad in 1858 following the Revolt of 1857.
• The event marked the formal proclamation of the transfer of power from the East India Company to the British Crown.
• At the Durbar, Queen Victoria's Proclamation of 1858 was publicly read, which assured Indians of religious tolerance, equal treatment under the law, and non-interference in religious practices.
• The Proclamation also promised administrative reforms and emphasized the British Crown's commitment to justice and governance in India.
• The Durbar in Allahabad symbolized the end of the rule of the East India Company and the beginning of direct British governance in India.

Additional Information

• The Revolt of 1857:
  • The Revolt of 1857, also known as the First War of Indian Independence, was a large-scale rebellion against the East India Company's rule.
  • It was triggered by grievances related to political annexations, economic exploitation, and cultural interference.
  • The rebellion was led by figures such as Rani Lakshmibai, Tatya Tope, Nana Sahib, and Bahadur Shah Zafar.
  • While the revolt was eventually suppressed, it marked a turning point in Indian history.
• Queen Victoria's Proclamation of 1858:
  • It was issued on 1 November 1858 and is often referred to as the "Magna Carta of India."
  • The Proclamation declared that the British Crown would take over the governance of India from the East India Company.
  • It assured Indians of non-interference in religious practices and equal treatment under British law.
• Significance of the Durbar at Allahabad:
  • The Durbar marked a significant shift in British policy in India, focusing on consolidation and governance rather than expansion.
  • It sought to pacify Indian sentiments post-1857 and establish the British Crown's authority and legitimacy.
• Impact of the 1857 Revolt on Administration:
  • The British Crown introduced administrative reforms to stabilize governance in India.
  • The Indian Civil Service (ICS) was strengthened, and recruitment was opened to Indians, albeit with restrictive conditions.
  • The British military was reorganized, with a greater emphasis on loyalty and European dominance in key positions.