The correct option is A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
Explanation
The British East India Company employed various administrative and political strategies to consolidate its rule and expand its territorial control in India. These policies evolved under different Governor-Generals to suit the changing requirements of colonial expansion.Detailed Analysis:
- A. Robert Clive - Dual Government (3): Following the Treaty of Allahabad (1765), Robert Clive introduced the Dual System of Government in Bengal. Under this system, the Company acquired the Diwani rights (right to collect revenue), while the Nizamat (administrative and judicial functions) remained with the Nawab. This system lasted until 1772.
- B. Lord Hastings - Policy of Paramountcy (1): Under Lord Hastings (Governor-General from 1813 to 1823), the Company initiated a new policy of "Paramountcy." The Company claimed that its authority was paramount or supreme, and therefore, its power was greater than that of Indian states, justifying the annexation of territories to protect British interests.
- C. Lord Dalhousie - Doctrine of Lapse (2): Lord Dalhousie (Governor-General from 1848 to 1856) applied the Doctrine of Lapse. According to this doctrine, if an Indian ruler of a dependent state died without a natural male heir, his kingdom would "lapse," or become part of the Company's territory, rather than passing to an adopted heir. Satara, Sambalpur, Udaipur, Nagpur, and Jhansi were annexed under this policy.
- D. Richard Wellesley - Subsidiary Alliance (4): Lord Wellesley (Governor-General from 1798 to 1805) aggressively used the Subsidiary Alliance system. Under this arrangement, Indian rulers were not allowed to have their own independent armed forces. They were protected by the Company but had to pay for the "subsidiary forces" maintained for their protection. If they failed to pay, part of their territory was taken as a penalty.
Key Takeaway:
The consolidation of British power relied on distinct strategies: Clive's Dual Government secured revenue without responsibility; Wellesley's Subsidiary Alliance subjugated rulers militarily; Hastings' Paramountcy asserted legal supremacy; and Dalhousie's Doctrine of Lapse facilitated direct annexation based on succession issues.