The correct answer is (c) Dalhousie.
The Doctrine of Lapse was a British policy, implemented under the administration of Lord Dalhousie as Governor-General of India from 1848 to 1856, whereby any Indian princely state whose ruler died without a male heir would be annexed by the British East India Company. The policy was based on the assumption that the British had a right to intervene in the affairs of Indian states in order to prevent them from falling into chaos or being taken over by other powers.
The Doctrine of Lapse was controversial at the time, and it has been criticized by historians for being a cynical and exploitative policy. However, it was also seen as a necessary measure to maintain order and stability in India. The policy was ultimately successful in bringing most of India under British rule, and it played a significant role in the events leading up to the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
(a) Wellesley was the Governor-General of India from 1798 to 1805. He is best known for his expansionist policies, which led to the acquisition of large territories in India. However, he did not implement the Doctrine of Lapse.
(b) Hastings was the Governor-General of India from 1772 to 1785. He is best known for his role in the Indian Rebellion of 1775-1782. However, he did not implement the Doctrine of Lapse.
(d) Clive was the first Governor of Bengal from 1757 to 1760. He is best known for his victory at the Battle of Plassey in 1757, which marked the beginning of British rule in India. However, he did not implement the Doctrine of Lapse.