From amongst the following which was the first Indian state annexed under the Doctrine of Lapse ?

The correct answer is - Satara

Key Points

• Doctrine of Lapse
  • The Doctrine of Lapse was a policy introduced by Lord Dalhousie, the British Governor-General of India (1848–1856).
  • Under this doctrine, if an Indian ruler died without a legitimate male heir, his kingdom would be annexed by the British Empire.
• Satara
  • Satara was the first Indian state annexed by the British under the Doctrine of Lapse in 1848.
  • The ruler of Satara, Chhatrapati Pratapsingh, had no biological male heir, making the state eligible for annexation.
  • This marked the beginning of British expansion through the Doctrine of Lapse.

Additional Information

• Other States Annexed Under the Doctrine of Lapse
  • Jhansi - Annexed in 1854 after the death of Rani Lakshmibai's husband, Raja Gangadhar Rao.
  • Udaipur - Annexed in 1852 due to lack of a direct male heir.
  • Nagpur - Annexed in 1853 after the death of Raghuji III without a male successor.
  • Jaitpur - Annexed in 1849 due to similar succession issues.
• Awadh
  • Unlike the Doctrine of Lapse, Awadh was annexed in 1856 on grounds of misgovernance.
  • The British justified the annexation by claiming that the Nawab was unable to maintain proper administration.
• Impact of the Doctrine of Lapse
  • Led to widespread resentment among Indian rulers, contributing to the 1857 Revolt.
  • Many Indian princely states viewed the doctrine as a threat to their sovereignty.