The correct answer is: d) All of the above.
Many princely states in Andhra Pradesh were under the suzerainty of the British but retained some autonomy over internal administration, revenue collection, and cultural and religious matters.
- Internal administration: The princely states had their own governments and laws. They were responsible for collecting taxes, maintaining law and order, and providing education and healthcare to their subjects.
- Revenue collection: The princely states were allowed to collect their own taxes. However, they had to pay a tribute to the British government.
- Cultural and religious matters: The princely states were allowed to maintain their own culture and religion. They were also allowed to have their own armies.
The British government had a policy of non-interference in the internal affairs of the princely states. However, they did have the right to intervene if the princely states were not able to maintain law and order or if they were not paying their tribute.
The princely states were abolished in 1947 when India gained independence. The princely rulers were given the choice of joining either India or Pakistan. Most of the princely states in Andhra Pradesh joined India.