The correct answer is (b), The English.
The English East India Company was the first European trading company to establish a factory at Surat in 1612. The company was founded in 1600 by a group of London merchants who were granted a royal charter by Queen Elizabeth I. The company’s goal was to trade with India and other parts of Asia.
The English East India Company established its first factory at Surat in 1612. Surat was a major port city on the west coast of India. The company’s factory at Surat was a success, and the company soon established other factories in other parts of India.
The English East India Company played a major role in the development of British India. The company’s factories became centers of trade and commerce, and the company’s employees helped to spread British culture and values in India.
The English East India Company was dissolved in 1874. However, its legacy continues to be felt in India today. The company’s factories were the foundation of many of India’s modern cities, and the company’s employees helped to shape the country’s culture and history.
The other options are incorrect.
(a) The Dutch East India Company was founded in 1602. The company established its first factory in India at Pulicat in 1610.
(c) The French East India Company was founded in 1664. The company established its first factory in India at Surat in 1668.
(d) The Portuguese East India Company was founded in 1500. The company established its first factory in India at Cochin in 1502.