After India gained independence on 15 August 1947, the country needed a Governor General as its constitutional head of state. This is a frequently asked GK question because there is an important distinction between the first and last British Governor General, and the first Indian Governor General.
After the post of Governor General was abolished when India became a republic on 26 January 1950, Dr. Rajendra Prasad became the first President of India — a different and elevated position that replaced it.
| Position | Person | Period |
|---|---|---|
| Last British GG of undivided India | Lord Louis Mountbatten | 1947–1948 |
| First (and only) Indian Governor General | C. Rajagopalachari (Chakravarti Rajagopalachari) | 1948–1950 |
C. Rajagopalachari (affectionately called Rajaji) was the first and only Indian to hold the post of Governor General of India. He took over from Mountbatten in June 1948. He held the post until January 26, 1950, when India became a Republic and the position of Governor General was replaced by the President of India (Dr. Rajendra Prasad became the first President).
Rajagopalachari was a key figure of the Indian independence movement:
The first Governor General of British India was **Warren Hastings** (1773–1785). The first Governor General of the Bengal Presidency was **Robert Clive**.
Rajiv Aarogyasri (Dr. YSR Aarogyasri) Health Scheme
Learn about the Rajiv Aarogyasri (now Dr. YSR Aarogyasri / Arogya Lakshmi) health insurance scheme providing free medical treatment for BPL families.
Ramphal in English — Fruit Name and Details
Ramphal (रामफल) is called Bullock's Heart in English. Scientific name: Annona reticulata. Learn its characteristics, nutritional value and difference from Sitaphal.
Rana Pratap Sagar — Dam on Chambal River, Rajasthan
Rana Pratap Sagar Dam is built on the Chambal River in Rawatbhata, Rajasthan. Part of Chambal River Valley Project. Power capacity: 172 MW. Learn all key facts.
RDO Full Form — Revenue Divisional Officer
RDO stands for Revenue Divisional Officer. Learn the full form, role, powers, functions, and which states have RDO officers in India's revenue administration system.
Remitter Meaning
Remitter is the person who sends money (remittance) to another person (beneficiary/remittee). Used in wire transfers, demand drafts, NEFT, RTGS, and international money transfer.
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