Page:The Imperial Durbar Album of the Indian princes, chiefs and zamindars.djvu/187

Rh During his regime he has done much to improve his State by carrying out various works of public utility. Foremost among them may be mentioned the system of lending money to the subjects at almost nominal rate of interest, and is analogous to the Agricultural Banks in the British territories. Likewise his "Travelling Dispensary" for the benefit,-particularly of the Kolis, Dhankas and other backward races in the interior of his territories, is looked upon as a great boon and highly appreciated. Pratap Singh's liberality and broad'mindedness was distinctly evinced during the famine of 1900 A.D. and during the plague of 1908 A.D. He gave great facilities to the education of his subjects in every possible way. He died in September 1911 A.D. and has been succeeded by his eldest son, Maharawal Shri Indra Singhji.

His Highness Maharawal Shri Indra Singhji was born on the 16th February 1888 A.D, He received his education at the Rajkumar College at Rajkot, where he remained for nearly seven years, under such well known principals as Messrs. Waddington and Mayne. After completing his college course, he travelled all over India and gained sufficient knowledge to fit himself for future responsibilities. In 1908 A.D. he was entrusted by his father with the control of the educational department of the State in which he introduced many reforms. On the demise of his father, Shri Indra Singhji has taken up the reins of the State in his own hands.

The area of the State is 215 square miles having a population of 44,600 souls according to the latest census and a gross revenue of four lacs of rupees.

The State maintains a small military force consisting of 110 foot-soldiers and 24 cavalry mainly for the preservation of internal peace.

The present ruler of Bansda, Maharawal Shri Indra Singhji, enjoys a salute of 9 guns.