UPSC Prelims 1996 · General Studies
Question 97: History and Culture
Who among the following was the first European to initiate the policy of taking part in the quarrels of Indian princes with a view to acquire territories?
AnswerThe answer is (b).
Dupleix, the French governor, was the first European to take sides in the succession quarrels of Indian princes (in the Carnatic and at Hyderabad in the 1740s), seeking territory and influence in return for military help. The English, under Clive, soon followed the same method. Remember: Dupleix - interference in Indian succession disputes.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Clive came later and followed the method Dupleix began.
- (b) Right: Dupleix first intervened in Indian succession quarrels.
- (c) Albuquerque captured Goa (1510) by conquest, not by joining Indian quarrels.
- (d) Warren Hastings was a later British governor-general.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1996, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.