Consider the following princely States of the British rule in India:

The correct option is 3, 2, 1.

Explanation

The annexation of princely states by the British during the mid-19th century was largely carried out under the Doctrine of Lapse.

• Satara: Correct – Annexed in 1848 under the Doctrine of Lapse, it was the first major state to be annexed using this policy.
• Sambalpur: Correct – Annexed in 1849 after the death of its ruler without a natural heir.
• Jhansi: Correct – Annexed in 1853 under the Doctrine of Lapse following the death of Raja Gangadhar Rao.

Key Takeaway: The sequence of annexation reflects the early application of the Doctrine of Lapse—beginning with Satara (1848), followed by Sambalpur (1849), and later Jhansi (1853).