Correct option is D
The Correct answer is:(d) Vallabhbhai Patel
Explanation
The Minister in charge of the States Ministry responsible for integrating the princely states into the Indian Union was Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He is often referred to as the "Iron Man of India" for his crucial role in uniting the 565 princely states into the newly independent India after 1947. As the Home Minister, Patel worked closely with officials like V. P. Menon to secure the accession of princely states to India, using both diplomacy and force where necessary. His efforts were instrumental in achieving the political integration of India.
Jawaharlal Nehru: As the first Prime Minister of India, Nehru played a leadership role in the country's independence and early governance, but he was not specifically in charge of the integration of princely states.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad: He was the first President of India and did not play a direct role in the integration of the princely states.
Jagjivan Ram: He was an important political leader, but not the one responsible for the integration of the princely states.
Information Booster
Vallabhbhai Patel was responsible for negotiating the terms of accession with the princely states and ensuring their merger into the Indian Union.
He handled the difficult task of persuading the rulers of the princely states, many of whom were reluctant to join India, to sign the Instrument of Accession.
Patel's leadership in this area was pivotal for the political unity of India post-independence.
Additional Knowledge
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel is widely regarded as one of India's foremost leaders, and his contribution to India's independence and political consolidation remains one of his most significant legacies.
V. P. Menon, the Secretary of the States Ministry, was Patel's close ally in the integration process, and together they ensured the smooth integration of the princely states.