Which one among the following Acts for the first time allowed Indians, at least theoretically, entry to higher posts in British Indian administration?

The correct option is 4 i.e. the Indian Councils Act, 1861.

• The Indian Councils Act, 1861 for the first time allowed Indians to get entry into higher posts in British Indian administration.
• Provisions of the Indian Councils Act, 1861:
  • The portfolio system was introduced by Lord Canning which led to the foundation of cabinet government in India.
  • The Indian Councils Act of 1861 was a pioneering act of representative institutions by associating Indians with the law-making process.
  • The Act restored the legislative powers of the Government of the Presidencies of Madras and Bombay.
• Indians were nominated by the Viceroy but there was no statutory provision for the inclusion of Indians in it.
• Hence, it may be considered as theoretically allowing entries to Indians.