Lord Hardinge was a British colonial administrator who served as the Viceroy of India from 1910 to 1916. He is known for his efforts to modernize India’s infrastructure and improve education. His tenure also saw the establishment of the Indian National Congress as a significant political force, which played a crucial role in India's struggle for independence. During his time in office, Lord Hardinge faced challenges such as the First World War and its impact on India. He worked to maintain stability and support the war effort, while also addressing the growing demands for political reform and self-governance among Indians.