When was the East India Company established in India?

Correct option is A

(a) 1600

Explanation:

The East India Company (EIC) was established on 31st December 1600, through a royal charter granted by Queen Elizabeth I of England. Initially formed for trading purposes, it later became the dominant colonial power in India, leading to British rule. The company's first factory was set up in Surat in 1613.

Key Points:

• Established in 1600 by Queen Elizabeth I.
• First factory in Surat (1613).
• Won the Battle of Plassey (1757) & Battle of Buxar (1764).
• Dissolved in 1874 after the Government of India Act, 1858.

Analysis of Other Options:

• (b) 1664 – Incorrect; French East India Company was established in 1664.
• (c) 1498 – Incorrect; Vasco da Gama reached India in 1498, but EIC was founded later.
• (d) 1602 – Incorrect; Dutch East India Company was founded in 1602.

Additional Information:

• Battle of Plassey (1757) marked the beginning of British rule.
• First Governor-General of British India: Warren Hastings (1773-1785).
• EIC rule ended after the Revolt of 1857.