What were The Conditions Under the System of Subsidiary Alliance?

The Subsidiary Alliance was a strategic policy implemented by the British East India Company in the late 18th and early 19th centuries to expand its influence over Indian princely states.

Key Features

• Stationing of British Troops: Indian rulers had to accept British forces within their territory for protection against external threats.
• Financial Subsidy: Rulers were required to pay for the maintenance of these troops. If unable to pay, they had to cede territory to the British.
• No Foreign Alliances: States under the alliance could not form alliances or conduct foreign relations without British consent, effectively surrendering their sovereignty.
• British Resident: A British official (Resident) was stationed at the ruler’s court to oversee administration and influence decisions.
• Non-Interference Clause: The British promised not to interfere in the internal affairs of the state as long as the ruler complied with the alliance terms. In practice, however, interference was common.

Stages of the Subsidiary Alliance

1. Military Support: Initial stage involved providing military assistance to friendly states.
2. Joint Forces: British and state forces would fight common enemies together.
3. Financial Demand: States paid for British troops stationed in their territory.
4. Territorial Cession: Failure to pay led to loss of territory and further erosion of sovereignty.

Impact and Legacy

The Subsidiary Alliance system led to the gradual loss of independence for Indian rulers, increased British control, and eventual annexation of many states. It was a cornerstone of British imperial expansion in India.