Question

Which one of the following was a key feature of the ‘Subsidiary Alliance’ introduced by Lord Wellesley in 1798?

• A. Free Trade Policy brought by British
• B. Maintenance of native army by British
• C. Imposition of Western Customs by British
• D. Protection of native territory by British

Hint:

The Subsidiary Alliance meant British troops would “protect” Indian states—but at the cost of their independence and treasury. Associate it with Lord Wellesley and political control.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Lord Wellesley's Subsidiary Alliance, implemented in 1798, was a diplomatic maneuver to assert British authority over Indian princely states, avoiding direct annexation.
Under this pact, British forces were stationed within an allied Indian state for its defense against external aggression and internal unrest. The Indian ruler was obligated to finance these troops and was prohibited from forming independent alliances or engaging in warfare without British consent.
This policy substantially diminished the autonomy of Indian rulers and broadened British political dominion. Consequently, the rationale employed to legitimize the stationing of British forces was the (D) Protection of native territory by British.