William Bentinck was a British soldier and politician who served as the Governor-General of India from 1828 to 1835. He is known for implementing significant reforms in India, including the abolition of the practice of sati, where widows were forced to self-immolate on their husband's funeral pyre. Bentinck aimed to modernize India and improve education and healthcare. Bentinck's tenure also focused on reducing corruption and promoting economic development. He introduced policies that encouraged the growth of agriculture and infrastructure, such as roads and railways. His leadership laid the groundwork for future reforms in British India, influencing the course of colonial governance.