Which of the following European powers was the first to arrive in India by sea route?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Portuguese
Explanation:
• The Portuguese were the first Europeans to reach India by sea.
• Vasco da Gama arrived at Calicut (Kozhikode) in 1498.
• This discovery of sea route opened new commercial and colonial interests.
• They established trading posts at Goa, Diu, and Daman.
• Portuguese rule in India lasted for over 450 years.
Information Booster:
• Goa was liberated from Portuguese rule in 1961.
• Portuguese introduced printing press in India.
Additional Knowledge:
(a) French – Arrived in 17th century.
(c) Dutch – Reached later, focused on East Indies.
(d) English – Arrived in 1600s after Dutch.