Warren Hastings was the first Governor-General of India, serving from 1773 to 1785. He was a key figure in the British East India Company's expansion in India and played a significant role in shaping British colonial policy in the region. Hastings was known for his administrative reforms and efforts to centralize British control in India. However, he also faced controversy and criticism, including accusations of corruption and abuse of power, which led to his impeachment trial in 1787. Despite the controversy, Hastings' tenure had a lasting impact on British rule in India.