Who among the following devised the system of ‘Subsidiary Alliance’?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) Lord Wellesley

The system of Subsidiary Alliance was devised by Lord Wellesley, the Governor-General of India from 1798 to 1805. This was a strategic alliance system aimed at establishing British paramountcy in India. The Subsidiary Alliance required Indian princely states to accept British troops within their territory and pay for their maintenance. In return, the British promised protection against external threats and internal rebellions. However, this system also led to the loss of sovereignty for the allied states.

Key Features of the Subsidiary Alliance:

1. The Indian ruler had to disband their own armed forces and accept a British resident in their court.
2. The ruler could not ally with any other power or declare war without British consent.
3. The British provided protection to the state against external aggression.
4. Failure to make payments for the subsidiary force could result in the annexation of the state's territory.

Notable States under Subsidiary Alliance:

1. Hyderabad (1798)
2. Mysore (1799)
3. Tanjore (1799)
4. Awadh (1801)

Additional Information:

• Lord Canning: Known for the introduction of the Indian Penal Code and serving as the first Viceroy of India.
•  Lord William Bentinck: Known for social reforms, including the abolition of Sati.
•  Lord Dalhousie: Associated with the Doctrine of Lapse policy for annexation.