The British became increasingly interested in acquiring "a cherry that will drop into our mouth one day". This refers to the annexation of which Indian territory by British colonial rulers?

Awadh

The correct answer is Option (4) → Awadh

The phrase “a cherry that will drop into our mouth one day” was used by British officials to describe Awadh (Oudh), which they expected to annex when circumstances suited them.

Awadh was finally annexed by the British in 1856 on the pretext of misgovernance, under Lord Dalhousie.