The correct answer is Ripon. He is generally acknowledged as the pioneer of local self-government in modern India. Lord Ripon, also known as George Robinson, served as the Viceroy of India from 1880 to 1884. During his tenure, he introduced several important reforms, including the Local Self-Government Act of 1882, which granted more power and autonomy to local bodies like municipalities and district boards. This act marked a significant shift towards decentralization and allowed Indians to participate in the governance of their local communities. Ripon`s reforms laid the foundation for the development of grassroots democracy in India. It is important to note that while the other options were also viceroys of India, they did not have the same level of impact or recognition in promoting local self-government as Ripon did.