Page:The Imperial Durbar Album of the Indian princes, chiefs and zamindars.djvu/106

90 THE IMPERIAL DURBAR ALBUM. In 1904 A.D., His Highness proceeded to Europe for the benefit of his health; and after visiting England and most of the countries of Europe, returned to India in November of the same year. While in England, he was received in audience by His Majesty, the late King'Emperor, at Buckingham Palace. While at Marienbad, His Imperial Majesty often met him and showed him great consideration. The travel to Europe widened his views on all matters, and ever since his return from there, he has been trying to improve the condition of his subjects in various ways.

The more important reforms introduced by His Highness in the State are: — (1) Adoption of the Imperial Postal Union, (2) Introduction of British Currency and Weights. (3) Introduction of the Nagri script in the Courts and Offices of the State. (4) Remission of a number of petty vexatious cesses.

In May 1908A.D. His Highness was created Knight Commander of the Exalted Order of the Star of India, and ' received the insignia at the investiture held in Calcutta in February 1909 A.D.

The military force of the State consists of 100 cavalry, 71 gunners, with 45 serviceable guns and 420 infantry.

The area of the Jhalawar State is 808 square miles and a population of 96,153 according to the Census of 1911 A.D. The number of villages in the State is 461, and the gross revenue, based on an average of the past five years, is roughly between 4j and 5 lacs. The State pays a tribute of Rs. 30,000 a year to the Imperial Government.

The present ruler of Jhalawar, His Highness Raj-Rana Sir Bhawani Singh Bahadur K. C. S. I., is entitled to a salute of 1 1 guns.