Lord Canning was the first Viceroy of India. He served in this position from 1858 to 1862.

The appointment of Lord Canning as the first Viceroy of India was a result of the Government of India Act 1858. This Act transferred the control of India from the East India Company to the British Crown, and established the office of the Viceroy as the representative of the British monarch in India.

During Lord Canning's tenure as Viceroy, he faced numerous challenges and played a crucial role in shaping the future of India. Here are some key points about his tenure:

1. Administration and Reforms:
- Lord Canning focused on administrative reforms and improving the governance of India.
- He introduced the Indian Civil Service, which aimed to create a professional and efficient administrative system in India.
- He also established the Public Works Department and introduced measures to improve irrigation, transportation, and communication systems in the country.

2. Sepoy Mutiny of 1857:
- One of the major challenges faced by Lord Canning was the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, also known as the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
- Canning played a crucial role in suppressing the rebellion and restoring British control.
- His policy of clemency towards the rebel leaders after the rebellion helped in pacifying the situation and preventing further unrest.

3. Abolition of the East India Company:
- As the first Viceroy, Lord Canning oversaw the transfer of power from the East India Company to the British Crown.
- This marked the end of the Company's rule in India and the beginning of direct British administration.

4. Education and Social Reforms:
- Lord Canning supported measures for the promotion of education in India.
- He established the Department of Public Instruction and introduced reforms to modernize Indian education.
- He also initiated social reforms such as the abolition of sati (the practice of widows self-immolating on their husband's funeral pyre) and the suppression of thuggee (organized criminal gangs).

Overall, Lord Canning's tenure as the first Viceroy of India was significant in shaping the future of British rule in India. His administrative reforms, handling of the Sepoy Mutiny, and initiatives in education and social reforms laid the foundation for the subsequent British administration in the country.