Step 1: Understand the Objective: The objective is to identify the individual appointed as the first Surveyor General of India in 1815, a pivotal role in the historical mapping of British India.
Step 2: Evaluate Options:
(1) George Michell: Primarily known as a contemporary art historian and archaeologist specializing in Deccan architecture, including Vijayanagara.
(2) John Marshall and (3) R.E.M. Wheeler: Both served as Director-Generals of the Archaeological Survey of India during the 20th century.
(4) Colin Mackenzie: A Scottish army officer with the East India Company, Mackenzie was an antiquarian, surveyor, and cartographer. He undertook extensive surveys of southern India. His significant contributions led to his appointment as the first Surveyor General of India in 1815. His collected maps, manuscripts, and historical documents are of immense value for understanding the history of that era.
Step 3: Conclude: Colin Mackenzie was designated the first Surveyor General of India in 1815.