Princely States in India

In the 18th and 19th centuries, India was divided into two major political entities - the British-controlled territories known as British India and the autonomous territories ruled by Indian princes known as Princely States. While British India was directly ruled by the British government, the Princely States enjoyed a certain degree of autonomy under the suzerainty of the British Crown. However, over time, the British gradually annexed many of these Princely States, bringing them under direct British control.

Gwalior - The Princely State not annexed by the British

Among the options provided, the Princely State of Gwalior was not annexed by the British. Gwalior was one of the most powerful and significant Princely States in India, located in present-day Madhya Pradesh.

Reasons for not annexing Gwalior
There were several reasons why Gwalior was not annexed by the British:

1. Strategic Importance: Gwalior was strategically located in central India, which made it a key military and administrative center. The British recognized the value of having a friendly Princely State in the region to maintain stability and control over the neighboring territories.

2. Support during the Revolt of 1857: During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the First War of Independence, Gwalior played a crucial role in supporting the British. The ruler of Gwalior, Maharaja Jayajirao Scindia, remained loyal to the British and provided them with military assistance. This support was instrumental in suppressing the rebellion in central India.

3. Subsidiary Alliance: The British entered into a subsidiary alliance with Gwalior in 1804. Under this agreement, Gwalior had to acknowledge British paramountcy, maintain a British resident at the court, and provide military support to the British when required. In return, Gwalior retained internal autonomy and control over its territories.

4. Political Considerations: Annexing Gwalior would have been a complex and challenging task for the British. The Scindia dynasty, which ruled Gwalior, had a long and established history in the region. The British preferred to have a friendly ruler in Gwalior who could maintain stability and control over the region on their behalf.

5. Post-Independence Integration: After India gained independence in 1947, the Princely States were given the option to join either India or Pakistan. Gwalior chose to join India and became part of the newly formed Indian Union.

Conclusion

In summary, the Princely State of Gwalior was not annexed by the British due to its strategic importance, support during the Revolt of 1857, the existence of a subsidiary alliance, political considerations, and the eventual integration with independent India.