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Bring out the constructive programmes of Mahatma Gandhi during Non-Cooperation Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement.

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2021 (Prelims) CSAT Previous Year Paper (10-Oct-2021)

Mahatma Gandhi’s brilliance lay not just in mass mobilization, but in linking political resistance with profound social and economic regeneration through his 'Constructive Programmes'. These were vital during both the Non-Cooperation (NCM) and Civil Disobedience Movements (CDM).

During the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22), the constructive programme aimed at building parallel institutions and fostering self-reliance, thereby weakening British control. Key elements included:

Promotion of Swadeshi and Khadi: Encouraging indigenous industries and hand-spun cloth to boycott British goods and promote economic self-sufficiency.

Hindu-Muslim Unity: Actively working to bridge communal divides, seeing it as crucial for national strength.

Removal of Untouchability: Campaigns against the social evil of untouchability, advocating for equal rights and dignity for Dalits.

National Education: Establishing national schools and colleges as alternatives to British-controlled institutions.

Prohibition of Alcohol: Discouraging alcohol consumption as a social reform measure.

During the Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-34), while resistance escalated, the constructive program continued with renewed vigour, particularly emphasizing:

Village Reconstruction: Focus on self-sufficient villages through cottage industries, sanitation, and basic education.

Promotion of Charkha and Khadi: Further expanding its reach as a symbol of economic freedom and rural employment.

** upliftment and Harmony:** Continued efforts for the upliftment of Scheduled Castes and promoting inter-caste dining.

Women's Participation: Encouraging women's active role in picketing liquor shops and foreign cloth shops, significantly enhancing their public presence.

These programmes were crucial for mass participation, fostering a sense of shared purpose, building self-confidence among Indians, and creating a parallel socio-economic structure that underpinned the political struggle. They truly prepared the ground for a free and self-reliant India.

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Sarvesh Jha

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Important Questions from GS1

  1. Underline the changes in the field of society and economy from the Rig Vedic to the later Vedic period. 

  2. Estimate the contribution of Pallavas of Kanchi for the development of art and literature of South India. 

  3. How far is it correct to say that the First World War was fought essentially for the preservation of the balance of power?

  4. How far was the Industrial Revolution in England responsible for the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India?

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