The correct answer is c) Warren Hastings.

Warren Hastings served as the first Governor-General of Bengal from 1773 to 1785. He was appointed by the British East India Company to oversee its interests in the region. His tenure marked a significant turning point in British colonial rule in India and had a lasting impact on the administration and governance of the country.

Hastings' Achievements and Contributions:
1. Administrative Reforms:
- Hastings introduced several administrative reforms to improve the governance of Bengal. He established a system of civil and criminal courts, reformed the revenue administration, and introduced a system of regular audits.
- He also established the Board of Revenue, which helped in the efficient collection of taxes and revenue.

2. Judicial Reforms:
- Hastings established the Supreme Court of Bengal in 1774, which became the highest court of appeal in the region. This helped in the impartial administration of justice and the codification of laws.
- He also introduced the Cornwallis Code, a set of regulations that laid the foundation for the modern legal system in India.

3. Land Revenue Reforms:
- Hastings implemented the Permanent Settlement of Bengal in 1793, which aimed to stabilize the land revenue system. Under this system, landholders were given permanent rights over their land in exchange for fixed annual payments to the British government.
- This policy provided stability to the agricultural sector and encouraged investment in land.

4. Educational Reforms:
- Hastings established the Calcutta Madrasah in 1781, which later evolved into the Aligarh Muslim University. This institution aimed to provide education in Islamic studies and promote cultural understanding.
- He also supported the establishment of Sanskrit College in Calcutta, which facilitated the study of Sanskrit and ancient Indian texts.

5. Foreign Policy:
- Hastings pursued a policy of non-intervention in the internal affairs of Indian states. He signed treaties with several princely states, ensuring their protection and non-interference in their internal matters.
- He also played a crucial role in the Anglo-Maratha Wars, successfully expanding British influence in the Indian subcontinent.

Overall, Warren Hastings' tenure as the first Governor-General of Bengal was marked by significant administrative, judicial, and educational reforms. His policies laid the foundation for British colonial rule in India and had a lasting impact on the governance and development of the country.

Lord cornwallis