The correct option is (c) 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Revolt of 1857 led to the enactment of the Government of India Act, 1858, which transferred the power to govern India from the East India Company to the British Crown. This resulted in significant administrative and military restructuring.
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: Under the Government of India Act, 1858, a member of the British Cabinet was appointed as the Secretary of State for India, not the Governor-General. The Secretary of State was responsible for the administration of India and was answerable to the British Parliament. The Governor-General remained the highest executive authority in India but was subordinate to the Secretary of State.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The Governor-General of India was given the title of Viceroy. This title signified that he was the direct representative of the British Crown in India. Lord Canning became the first Viceroy of India.
- Statement 3 is Correct: To prevent future uprisings, the British reorganized the army based on the recommendations of the Peel Commission. The proportion of Indian soldiers to European soldiers was drastically reduced. The ratio was fixed at roughly 1:2 in the Bengal Army and 1:3 in the Madras and Bombay Armies. Additionally, key strategic positions and artillery were placed exclusively under European control.
Key Takeaway: The Government of India Act, 1858 ended Company rule, established the office of the Secretary of State (a British Cabinet minister), designated the Governor-General as the Viceroy, and restructured the army to ensure European dominance.