In which of the following years was the first English newspaper started from Calcutta?

Appeared in: Haryana CHO - 2022

Explanation

The first English newspaper in India, Hicky's Bengal Gazette, was launched on January 29, 1780.
It was founded in Calcutta (now Kolkata) by James Augustus Hicky.
Also known as the Original Calcutta General Advertiser, it was a weekly publication and the first printed newspaper in Asia.

Option A: 1779 is incorrect as it predates the actual launch of the newspaper by one year.
Option C: 1781 is incorrect. By this year, the newspaper was already established and actively publishing its critical content.
Option D: 1782 is incorrect. This is the year Hicky's Bengal Gazette ceased publication after its printing press was seized by the administration due to its criticism of the government.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain History of Print Media in India as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question, while non-clinical, tests general knowledge, which is a component of many nursing entrance examinations.
Understanding history helps develop critical thinking and analytical skills, which are essential for nurses in assessing situations and making sound judgments.
What if? If the question had asked for the first newspaper in a vernacular Indian language, the answer would be 'Samachar Darpan' (in Bengali), started in 1818, highlighting the diversity of India's press history.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core components of the question: 'first English newspaper' and 'Calcutta'.
Recognize this as a factual recall question from modern Indian history, a common topic in general knowledge sections of exams.
Access your knowledge about the origins of the press in India.
Recall the name of the first newspaper (Hicky's Bengal Gazette) and its founder (James Augustus Hicky).
Pinpoint the specific year of its establishment, which is a key historical fact.
Compare this year (1780) with the given options to select the correct one.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full Haryana CHO - 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.