Charles Wood
Explanation
The Educational Despatch of 1854, widely regarded as the "Magna Carta of English Education in India," established the structural framework for the modern education system in India during the British rule.
Detailed Analysis:
- Charles Wood: In 1854, Sir Charles Wood served as the President of the Board of Control of the East India Company. He issued the despatch to the Governor-General of India, outlining a comprehensive plan for the spread of education. This document is historically known as "Wood's Despatch."
- Lord Dalhousie: He was the Governor-General of India (1848–1856) at the time the despatch was issued. While he was responsible for implementing the recommendations, he did not hold the position of President of the Board of Control.
- Lord Macaulay: He was the Law Member of the Governor-General's Council who authored the famous "Minute on Indian Education" in 1835, which advocated for the "Downward Filtration Theory." This predates the 1854 despatch.
- William Jones: He was a judge and an Orientalist scholar who founded the Asiatic Society of Bengal in 1784. He was not involved in the administrative formulation of the 1854 education policy.
Key Takeaway: Sir Charles Wood was the President of the Board of Control who issued the Despatch of 1854, recommending the establishment of universities, the use of vernaculars at the primary level, and the promotion of female education.