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The Ring Fence policy (Ring Fence System) was introduced by Warren Hastings (1773-1785) as a defensive strategy for the East India Company. Under this policy, the Company would protect its allied states from external threats (especially from Marathas and Afghans) in exchange for financial and military cooperation. The 'ring fence' created a buffer of protected territories around Company lands. Henry Lawrence later used similar principles, Lord Hastings expanded subsidiary alliances, and Lord Dalhousie pursued the Doctrine of Lapse.