Who among the following was the first European to initiate the policy of taking part in the quarrels of Indian princes with a view to acquire territories?

Q. Who among the following was the first European to initiate the policy of taking part in the quarrels of Indian princes with a view to acquire territories?

(a) Clive

(b) Dupleix

(c) Albuquerque

(d) Warren Hastings

Ans: (b) Dupleix

Explanation: Dupleix succeeded Dumas as the French governor of Pondicherry. His ambition now was to acquire for France vast territories in India, and for this purpose he entered into relations with the native princes, and adopted a style of oriental splendour in his dress and surroundings. He built an army of native troops, called sepoys, who were trained as infantrymen men in his service also included the famous Hyder Ali of Mysore.