The correct answer is option 'C' - Canning.

The first Viceroy of India was Lord Canning. He served as the Viceroy from 1858 to 1862. Lord Canning was appointed as the Viceroy immediately after the Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny or the First War of Independence.

Lord Canning's tenure as the first Viceroy of India was a crucial period in Indian history, as it marked the transfer of power from the East India Company to the British Crown. Let us explore this in more detail:

1. Background:
The Indian Rebellion of 1857 was a major uprising against British rule in India. It began as a mutiny by Indian soldiers (sepoys) of the British East India Company's army. The rebellion soon spread to various parts of India and gained support from different sections of society.

2. Role of Lord Canning:
Lord Canning played a significant role in suppressing the rebellion and restoring British control. He implemented several measures to curb the rebellion and bring stability to India. Some of the key actions taken by Lord Canning during his tenure include:

- Decisive actions: Lord Canning took swift and decisive actions to suppress the rebellion. He ordered the deployment of additional British troops, declared martial law in some regions, and authorized strong measures to quell the rebellion.

- Policy of amnesty: Lord Canning adopted a policy of amnesty towards the rebels. He offered pardons to those who surrendered and cooperated with the British authorities. This approach helped in pacifying some sections of the population and gaining their support.

- Judicial reforms: Lord Canning introduced judicial reforms to ensure fair trials for the rebels. He established special tribunals to hear cases related to the rebellion and appointed commissioners to investigate the incidents. These reforms aimed to bring justice and restore law and order in the country.

- Proclamation of Queen Victoria: In 1858, Lord Canning issued a proclamation on behalf of Queen Victoria, announcing the end of the Company's rule and the assumption of direct governance by the British Crown. This marked a significant shift in the political structure of India.

3. Significance:
Lord Canning's tenure as the first Viceroy of India was a critical period in Indian history. His actions and policies helped in restoring British control and stability after the rebellion. The transfer of power from the East India Company to the British Crown laid the foundation for subsequent British rule in India.

In conclusion, Lord Canning served as the first Viceroy of India after the Indian Rebellion of 1857. His tenure was marked by efforts to suppress the rebellion, restore British control, and initiate the transition of power to the British Crown.