The Doctrine of Lapse was a policy implemented by the British East India Company in the 19th century, primarily under Governor-General Lord Dalhousie.
This doctrine stated that if an Indian ruler died without a direct heir, their kingdom would automatically be annexed by the British.
The aim of the Doctrine of Lapse was to expand British territorial control in India by justifying the annexation of princely states that were perceived as being misgoverned or unstable.
The policy also allowed the British to interfere in the succession of native states, effectively undermining the traditional rights of Indian rulers.
The Doctrine of Lapse was introduced by Lord Dalhousie in the year of 1848
The first princely state which was took over by the British East India Company by the policy of 'Doctrine of Lapse' was - Satara(1848)
