The loyalties of the Nizam of Hyderabad, the largest princely state in the region, were crucial for the British in maintaining control over Andhra Pradesh. The Nizam:

The correct answer is: a) Actively supported the British in suppressing the Revolt.

The Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Khan, was a powerful ruler who controlled a large princely state in the region. He was initially reluctant to support the British in the Indian Rebellion of 1857, but he eventually agreed to do so after the British promised to protect his territory. The Nizam’s troops played a key role in suppressing the rebellion, and he was rewarded with a large increase in his territory.

Option b) is incorrect because the Nizam did not join the rebellion. He was initially reluctant to support the British, but he eventually agreed to do so after they promised to protect his territory.

Option c) is incorrect because the Nizam did not remain neutral during the conflict. He actively supported the British in suppressing the rebellion.

Option d) is incorrect because the Nizam did not secretly support the rebels while maintaining outward loyalty. He was a loyal ally of the British, and he played a key role in suppressing the rebellion.