The correct answer is (a) British.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was the founder and first Maharaja of the Sikh Empire in the Punjab region of India. He was a brilliant military strategist and tactician, and he was able to unite the Sikh people and create a powerful empire.
The British were the dominant European power in India at the time, and they were initially wary of Ranjit Singh’s growing power. However, they soon realized that he was a potential ally against their other rivals in India, such as the Afghans and the Marathas.
Ranjit Singh was also aware of the British threat, and he was careful to maintain a cautious but strategic relationship with them. He allowed the British to trade in his territories, and he even gave them some military assistance on occasion. However, he always made sure that he retained control of his own affairs.
The relationship between Ranjit Singh and the British was complex and often fraught with tension. However, it was ultimately a relationship of mutual benefit, and it helped to ensure the stability of the region for many years.
The other options are incorrect because:
(b) The French were a rival of the British in India, and they were not interested in forming an alliance with Ranjit Singh.
(c) The Portuguese had a small presence in India, but they were not a major power in the region.
(d) The Dutch had a larger presence in India than the Portuguese, but they were also not a major power.