This paper examines the anthropometric health indicators of infants across different regions of postcolonial India, focusing on the impact of (in)direct British rule. Utilizing novel data on colonial state capacity, the study reveals new mechanisms behind the persistence of health disparities. By controlling for selective annexation through an exogenous policy that divided India into directly ruled British territories and Native States, the analysis shows that regions under British rule exhibit worse stunting and wasting today. These disparities are attributed to the lack of preventive care and weak state capacity during British rule. Moreover, the findings highlight how deteriorating demographics, material conditions, and food production continue to reflect the enduring negative legacy of British colonialism on public health.