The headquarters of the French East India Company was in Pondicherry.

The French East India Company, also known as the "Compagnie française pour le commerce des Indes orientales," was established in 1664. It was one of the major European trading companies during the colonial era and operated primarily in the Indian Ocean region, including India, Southeast Asia, and China.

The company's headquarters were initially located in Surat, a major trading port in western India. However, due to conflicts with the Dutch and the Mughal Empire, the French East India Company shifted its headquarters to Pondicherry.

Below are the reasons why Pondicherry became the headquarters of the French East India Company:

1. Strategic Location: Pondicherry, located on the Coromandel Coast of southeastern India, was a strategically important port. It provided easy access to the Bay of Bengal and was well-situated for trade with Southeast Asia and China.

2. Favorable Relations with Local Rulers: The French East India Company had established friendly relations with local rulers, such as the Sultan of Golconda and the Nawab of Carnatic, who controlled the region around Pondicherry. This allowed the company to operate without significant interference.

3. Development of Pondicherry: The French East India Company played a crucial role in the development of Pondicherry. They transformed the small fishing village into a thriving colonial town with fortified structures, warehouses, and trading posts. The company also built a harbor to facilitate trade.

4. Trade Opportunities: Pondicherry was strategically located along major trade routes, attracting merchants and traders from various parts of India and beyond. The French East India Company took advantage of these trade opportunities and established a strong presence in the region.

5. Political Stability: Unlike other parts of India, Pondicherry experienced relative political stability during that time. This allowed the French East India Company to carry out its trading activities smoothly without the constant threat of conflict.

Overall, the strategic location, favorable relations with local rulers, trade opportunities, development of Pondicherry, and political stability were the key factors that led to the establishment of the headquarters of the French East India Company in Pondicherry.

Correct answer is d