The correct answer is: a) 17th century.
The British first made exploratory contact with the Naga Hills region in the 17th century. The first recorded contact was in 1622, when a British expedition led by Captain Ralph Fitch reached the region. The British were interested in the Naga Hills because of its potential for trade and resources. However, the Naga people were hostile to the British and the expedition was unsuccessful.
The British made further attempts to contact the Naga Hills in the 18th century, but these were also unsuccessful. It was not until the early 19th century that the British were able to establish a permanent presence in the region. In 1832, the British East India Company established a trading post in the Naga Hills. This was followed by the establishment of a military post in 1839.
The British presence in the Naga Hills led to increased contact between the British and the Naga people. However, the relationship between the two groups was often tense. The British were interested in exploiting the Naga Hills for its resources, while the Naga people were resistant to British rule. This led to a number of conflicts between the British and the Naga people.
The British eventually withdrew from the Naga Hills in 1947. However, the legacy of British rule continues to be felt in the region. The Naga people are still struggling to assert their independence from India.
The other options are incorrect because:
- Option b) is incorrect because the British first made exploratory contact with the Naga Hills region in the 17th century, not the 18th century.
- Option c) is incorrect because the British first made exploratory contact with the Naga Hills region in the 17th century, not the early 19th century.
- Option d) is incorrect because the British first made exploratory contact with the Naga Hills region in the 17th century, not the late 19th century.