Correct Option
The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The administrative structure of India has evolved significantly from the colonial era to the present day. Before independence, India was politically divided into British Provinces and Princely States. Currently, the Indian Union comprises States and Union Territories defined under the Constitution.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: At present, India comprises 28 States and 8 Union Territories. The number of Union Territories became 8 following the merger of Dadra and Nagar Haveli with Daman and Diu (effective January 2020) and the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir into two separate UTs (effective October 2019).
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Before 1947, Princely States were ruled by local hereditary rulers. These rulers acknowledged British suzerainty (paramountcy) and enjoyed autonomy in internal affairs, but they were not directly ruled by British officials.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: Provinces were the regions under the direct rule of the British government. They were administered by British officials (such as Governors or Lieutenant-Governors) appointed by the Viceroy, not by local hereditary rulers.
Key Takeaway
Provinces were under direct British administration, whereas Princely States were ruled by hereditary kings under British paramountcy. Modern India consists of 28 States and 8 Union Territories.