What was the Ring-Fence policy ?

The Ring-Fence policy was a doctrine enacted by Warren Hasting which involved defending their neighbors’ frontiers in order to safeguard their own territories. This was reflected in the East India Company’s war against the Marathas and the Mysore Kingdom.

The East India Company would send troops to strengthen the defence of its allies and the expenses for their upkeep would be borne by rulers of such a kingdom. In this way the local ruler would stay dependent on the East India Company for its defence.

For further reading check the following articles:

• Warren Hastings
• Battle of Plassey.
• Robert Clive.