Which of the following states were merged in the first stage of integration of the present Rajasthan?
Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

Correct option is C

The first stage of the integration of Rajasthan occurred on 17th March 1948, when four princely states—Alwar, Bharatpur, Dholpur, and Karauli—merged to form the Matsya Union. This union was an essential step in the gradual formation of the present-day Rajasthan.

Information Booster:

1. Integration of Rajasthan: The process took place in seven stages between 1948 and 1956.
2. First Stage (Matsya Union): Consisted of Alwar, Bharatpur, Dholpur, and Karauli.
3. Second Stage (Rajasthan Union): Took place on 25th March 1948, including Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Banswara, and others.
4. The integration was led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and V.P. Menon under the Indian Government.
5. Rajasthan was officially inaugurated on 30th March 1949, with Jaipur as the capital.
6. The final stage of integration happened in 1956, when Ajmer and other territories were added.

Additional Knowledge:

• Banswara, Bundi, Dungarpur (a): These regions became part of Rajasthan in later stages of integration.
• Pratapgarh, Shahpura, Tonk (b): Also merged in subsequent stages, particularly during the formation of the Greater Rajasthan Union.
• Bikaner, Jaipur, Jaisalmer (d): These larger princely states joined during the third and fourth stages of the integration.
• Matsya Union (c): Played a pioneering role as the first step in the integration of princely states into Rajasthan.