Who had devised the policy called the 'Doctrine of Lapse' in Colonial India?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) Lord Dalhousie
Explanation:
● Lord Dalhousie, the Governor-General of India from 1848 to 1856, devised the Doctrine of Lapse.
● According to this policy, any princely state under the direct or indirect influence of the British would be annexed if the ruler died without a legal male heir.
● This policy was used to annex states like Satara, Sambalpur, and Jhansi.
Information Booster:
● The policy refused to recognize the right of an adopted son to inherit the throne.
● It was one of the major political causes of the Revolt of 1857.
● Dalhousie is also known for introducing the first telegraph line and passenger train in India.
Additional Knowledge:
● Lord Wellesley – Famous for the "Subsidiary Alliance" system.
● Lord Cornwallis – Introduced the Permanent Settlement in Bengal.