Question

Subsidiary Alliance system was introduced by_______

• A. Lord Dalhousie
• B. Lord Wellesley
• C. Lord Cornwallis
• D. Sir Sidney Rowlatt

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Lord Wellesley implemented the Subsidiary Alliance. This was a British expansion strategy in India. The system operated as follows:

• Objective: To solidify British dominance through indirect means.
• Method: Indian rulers were compelled to sign treaties requiring them to:
  • Disband their own armies and accept a British military presence.
  • Fund the British troops or cede land for their upkeep.
  • Seek British counsel for disputes with other states.
• Outcome: This mechanism enabled the British to exert indirect control over princely states, minimizing direct conflict and annexation.