Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Permanent Settlement, or Zamindari System, was a landmark land revenue policy introduced in Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha in 1793.
Lord Cornwallis wanted a system that would ensure a fixed and predictable revenue for the East India Company while creating a loyal class of landed gentry.
Under this system, the Zamindars were recognized as owners of the land, and the revenue they owed to the state was fixed forever.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The formulation of this system involved a long debate within the British administration between 1786 and 1793.
The main planners were John Shore (President of the Board of Revenue) and James Grant.
John Shore argued that the Zamindars were the rightful traditional owners of the land and that the revenue should be settled with them.
Shore conducted extensive surveys to determine the revenue capacity of the land.
While Shore recommended a decennial (10-year) settlement to allow for future adjustments, Lord Cornwallis decided to make the settlement "permanent" immediately to encourage investment in land improvement.
Despite this difference on the timeline, the fundamental logic and structural framework of the settlement were provided by John Shore.
Let's evaluate the others:
(A) Alexander Dow: An early official who suggested a permanent land tax in the 1770s, but he did not design the 1793 system.
(B) Thomas Munro: The architect of the "Ryotwari System" in South India, where revenue was settled directly with individual peasants (Ryots).
(D) Charles Metcalfe: Known for his views on the "Little Republics" of Indian villages and for liberating the Indian press.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Permanent Settlement plan was principally drafted and recommended by John Shore, which Lord Cornwallis then implemented in 1793.
Thus, option (C) is the correct answer.