Q. The British East India Company considered itself to be the paramount power in India after

The correct answer is: d) Suppressing the uprising of 1857

Explanation:

The British East India Company considered itself the paramount power in India primarily after suppressing the uprising of 1857. This event marked a significant turning point as it led to the dissolution of the East India Company and the establishment of direct British rule over India through the Government of India Act 1858.

– Defeating Sindhia in 1803: This victory was significant but did not establish the Company as the supreme authority in India.
– Signing a treaty with Ranjit Singh in 1809: This treaty was more about maintaining peace with Sikh territories than asserting paramountcy.
– Defeating Bhonsale in 1818: While this was an important military success, it was part of a broader context of consolidation rather than a definitive claim to paramountcy.
– Suppressing the uprising of 1857: This uprising, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny, was crucial as it demonstrated British military strength and control, leading to the transition from Company rule to direct Crown rule, thereby solidifying British dominance in India.

Thus, the correct answer is Suppressing the uprising of 1857.