Critics argue alliances drained resources, reduced independent policy-making, and led to de facto control by Britain.

Rulers paid subsidies or ceded territory to meet costs of British troops stationed in their states.

Later British policies, like the Doctrine of Lapse, sometimes worked alongside alliances to consolidate control.

Some rulers accepted alliances to get military protection against stronger neighbors or internal rivals.

It was a method of indirect control where states were 'protected' but effectively controlled by the British.

Hyderabad accepted the alliance and bore heavy costs for maintaining British troops.

Residents and envoys of the Governor-General negotiated and enforced subsidiary treaties.

To guarantee payment for troops, rulers sometimes ceded territory or revenue to the British.

The policy allowed Britain to exert influence and station troops without full annexation, reducing administrative burden.

The Nizam's acceptance in 1798 secured the Deccan for British interests and was a major diplomatic victory.