Prior to its full integration into India in 1975, under which specific international status did Sikkim function in relation to the Government of India from 1950 onward?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Following the Indo-Sikkim Treaty of 1950, Sikkim became a protectorate of India, wherein New Delhi assumed responsibility for its defense, foreign affairs, and strategic communications while internal autonomy was retained by the Chogyal. Union territory status applied to regions like Delhi and Andaman, while Bhutan maintained separate sovereign status. This arrangement persisted until the political crisis of 1973-1975.