Institutions for Women’s Education in Delhi (1900–1920): Philanthropists, Missionaries and the Government

Delhi has been the seat of power for long. The British made their centre of power in Calcutta for sometimes for strategic reasons perhaps but soon they realised the importance of Delhi as the centre of power and thus, shifted the British capital from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911. This change brought with it many changes in all aspects of lives for the people of Delhi. This also meant changes in administration and education system of Delhi. Like all other parts of India Delhi too had its own system of education but the new scenario necessitated further expansion and development of education. The philanthropists, individuals, the Christian missionaries and the Colonial government responded to this new situation with various frames of interests and motivation. In Delhi Arya Samajists and Sanatanis played an important role in the development of education for all in general and for girls’ in particular. The British government set up the education board to meet the rising needs of education not only of native population but also for the children of the government employees.