The Dutch East India Company (VOC) established its first factory in India in Petapuli.
While Masulipatnam (1605) is traditionally recognized as the very first Dutch factory, Petapuli (modern-day Nizampatnam) was established almost immediately after in 1606. Since Masulipatnam is not provided in your list of options, Petapuli is the historically accurate alternative for the earliest Dutch presence on the Coromandel Coast.
Summary of Early Dutch Settlements
| Location | Year Established | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Masulipatnam | 1605 | The actual first factory. |
| Petapuli | 1606 | The correct choice from your list. |
| Pulicat | 1610 | Became the main Dutch headquarters. |
| Surat | 1616 | First factory on the Western coast. |
Why the other options are incorrect:
Calicut: This was a major hub for the Portuguese, but the Dutch did not establish their primary early roots here.
Goa: This was the capital of the Portuguese "Estado da Índia." The Dutch actually blockaded Goa but didn't set up their first factory there.
Pondicherry: This was the main stronghold of the French East India Company, established much later in 1674.
Correct Answer:
Petapuli
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