Q. The Governor-General who followed a spirited “Forward” policy towards Afghanistan was
(a) Minto
(b) Dufferin
(c) Elgin
(d) Lytton
Ans: (d) Lytton
Explanation: The Governor-General who followed a spirited “Forward” policy towards Afghanistan was Lord Lytton.
Lord Lytton, whose full name was Edward Robert Bulwer-Lytton, served as the Viceroy of India from 1876 to 1880. During his tenure, he pursued a policy known as the “Forward Policy” or the “Forward Movement” with regard to Afghanistan. This policy aimed to extend British influence and control in the region, particularly to counter the growing influence of Russia in Central Asia. The policy involved sending British agents and establishing diplomatic relations with Afghan leaders in an effort to strengthen British interests in the area. Therefore, the correct option is (d) Lytton.
