The Viceroy of India was the British Crown’s chief representative in India , created after the Revolt of 1857 when the British government took direct control from the East India Company.

Key facts in one glance

  • The title “Viceroy of India” was formally created by the Government of India Act, 1858.
  • The first Viceroy of India was Lord Canning (Charles John Canning) , who served from 1858 to 1862.
  • The last Viceroy of India was Lord Mountbatten , who held office during the transfer of power in 1947 and briefly after independence.

What did the Viceroy do?

  • Acted as the top administrator of British India on behalf of the monarch after 1858.
  • Combined political, executive, and sometimes military authority over colonial governance.
  • Oversaw major policies such as administrative reforms, laws, and responses to movements like the early phases of Indian nationalism.

A quick example

An important example is Lord Curzon (Viceroy 1899–1905) , who:

  • Ordered restoration work on the Taj Mahal and other monuments.
  • Presided over the controversial partition of Bengal in 1905, which fuelled nationalist protests.

Short answer (exam‑style)

  • First Viceroy of India: Lord Canning (1858–1862).
  • Last Viceroy of India: Lord Mountbatten (1947–1948, around independence period).

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