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Gandhi's satyagraha in champaran.

Champaran is a district in North Western Bihar. It formed part of the Tirhut division in the province of Bihar and Orissa in British India. In 1972, it was divided in two districts, Pashchim (west) and Purbi (east) Champaran. The headquarters of the former is at Bettiah and the latter is at Motihari.

Indigo cultivation in Champaran goes back to the late 18 th century. It was in 1813, however, that the first indigo factory was founded at Bara village. By 1850, indigo had become the predominantly produced crop in Champaran, replacing even sugar.

An indigo planter's office. Source: 'Gandhi in Champaran' by D.G. Tendulkar.

The predominant system of Indigo cultivation in Champaran was the tinkathia system. In this, the ryot was under an obligation to cultivate three kathas per beegha of his land with indigo i.e. 3/20 th of his landholding ( 1 beegha = 20 kathas). There were no legal grounds for this. It was done solely at the wishes of the indigo factory owners (planters). Moreover, post 1900, because of competition from the European synthetic indigo, the indigo factories in Bihar started facing decline. To escape losses, the planters began cancelling their agreements with the ryots to grow indigo. To release them from this obligation, they charged a tawan i.e. damages as high as rs. 100 per beegha . If the ryots could not make a cash payment, then handnotes and mortgage bonds were made at an interest rate of 12 percent per annum.

Like Bengal, there was a general discontent among the ryots around indigo cultivation in Bihar. The core reason for this was the low remuneration they received for the crop. They also suffered harassment and oppression at the hands of factory servants. All this resulted in demonstrations against indigo cultivation in Champaran twice. First, in 1867 when the tenants of Lalsariya factory refused to grow indigo. Since the redressal of the grievances were not satisfactory, a second demonstration emerged in 1907-08 which witnessed unrest and violence in Sathi and Bettiah against the tinkathia system.

The socio-politically surcharged situation in Champaran finally culminated in the historic Champaran Satyagraha which none had seen coming, not even its protagonist, Mahatma Gandhi. “I must confess that I did not then know even the name, much less the geographical position, of Champaran, and I had hardly any notion of indigo plantations.”

At that time Gandhi had recently returned from South Africa after a successful Satyagraha against the Apartheid system. Thus, he had assumed the status of an emancipator. The resentment surrounding indigo cultivation compelled Raj Kumar Shukla, a well-off agriculturist to persuade Mahatma Gandhi to visit Champaran and work for the oppressed peasants. Along with Brajkishore Prasad, a reputed Bihari lawyer who fought cases for the tenants, Shukla first met Gandhi at Lucknow where he had come to attend the Annual Congress Meet of 1916. Initially, Gandhi seemed unimpressed by both of them and clearly stated that unless he saw the situation for himself, he would not do anything. He further asked them to pass the resolution without him. Brajkishore Prasad moved a resolution in the Congress meeting about the distress of peasants in Champaran. Shukla gave a speech while supporting it. The resolution was unanimously passed.

However, Shukla was not satisfied. He followed Gandhi to Kanpur and Sabarmati. Gandhi finally agreed to visit Champaran. “I have to be in Calcutta on such and such a date, come and meet me then, and take me from there.” The news of Gandhi’s arrival in Champaran had created a stir among the British officials . They believed that his arrival could provide fuel to the inflammable situation in Champaran. At the same time, they were aware that given his huge following , he had to be watched and dealt with carefully.

Gandhi first arrived in Muzaffarpur. Being sensible to the situation, he immediately wrote to the Commissioner of the Tirhut Division informing him that he wanted to work with the cognizance and co-operation of the government. He also asked for an appointment so that he could apprise him about the purpose of his visit.

In the meeting , Gandhi stated that owing to public demand, he wished to enquire about the condition of indigo cultivation in Champaran and the grievances of the tenants associated with it. He also said that he did not have any desire to instigate turbulence. He was asked to show the credentials to prove that there indeed was a public demand for his arrival which he eventually produced .

Gandhi and his wife Kasturba Gandhi on their return from South Africa to India in 1915.

Despite the clarification, British officials were still apprehensive about Gandhi’s objectives. They believed his motive was agitation which would most likely disturb the public tranquillity. Thus, it was decided that as soon as he arrived in Champaran, a notice to leave the district should be served on him under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

Mahatma Gandhi finally arrived at Motihari, headquarter of Champaran district, on 15 th April 1917. He decided to visit the village Jassauli where a tenant had been mistreated. While still on his way, he was overtaken by a Sub-inspector who informed Gandhi that an order under Section 144 has been issued and requested him to return and meet the District Magistrate. Gandhi came back from the way but he refused to adhere to the notice. He wrote to the Magistrate that he would not leave Champaran for which he was ready to suffer the penalty of disobedience .

Sitting (L-R): Rajendra Prasad and Anugrah Narayan Sinha. Standing (L-R): local advocates Ramnavmi Prasad and Shambhusaran Varma.

As a result, Gandhi was also charged under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code and summoned for a trial on 18 th April. The day of the trial is one of the most memorable moments in the history of Champaran. A huge crowd of ryots had gathered in front of the Court. The trial started and the government pleader stated the case against Gandhi. In his turn, Gandhi read out his statement in which he reiterated that he does not intend to invoke any agitation. Rather, his motive was only humanitarian and national service for the distressed peasants which he wanted to achieve with official assistance. He didn’t offer any defence but declared his willingness to go to jail .

Gandhiji’s stance baffled the officials. In view of the confusion, it was decided to postpone the sentencing . In the meantime, the Lieutenant Governor intervened and on the grounds of insufficient evidence against Gandhi and the doubtful legality of invoking Section 144 against him, ordered the local administration to withdraw the case . Moreover, he also gave Gandhi the permission to conduct the inquiry. Thus, the ideals of Civil Disobedience and Satyagraha which later became a characteristic feature of the Indian National Movement, began from Champaran.

After this, Gandhiji proceeded with his inquiry, first in Motihari and then in Bettiah. All this time, he was assisted by his co-workers who acted as volunteers in conducting the inquiry . These included personalities like Rajendra Prasad, Brajkishore Prasad, Mazharul Haq, J.B. Kriplani, Ramnavami Prasad etc. Thousands of ryots from several villages came to give their statements about their grievances with the indigo cultivation system. Amidst this, Gandhi had become a heroic figure for the peasants. They perceived him as their saviour and used to wait for his darshan .

Hazarimal’s Dharamshala from where Gandhiji conducted his inquiry in Bettiah, Champaran. Source: 'Gandhi in Champaran' by D.G. Tendulkar.

The Bihar Planters’ Association vehemently opposed the inquiry on the grounds that it presented a biased picture and had the potential of instigating ryots’ aggression against them. They demanded that Gandhi’s inquiry should be stopped and if need arises, an impartial inquiry should be instituted by the Government itself. Moreover, some European officials were also apprehensive of the situation and believed that Gandhi’s inquiry was likely to become an anti-European movement.

One of the schools started by Gandhi in Bhitwara, Champaran. Source: 'Gandhi in Champaran' by D.G. Tendulkar.

As this opposition intensified, the Government intervened in the matter. Gandhi was called for an interview with W. Maude , Member of the Executive Council, Government of Bihar and Orissa who instructed him to send a preliminary report of the inquiry so far. He also suggested that in the meantime recording of statements by Gandhi’s companions should be stopped and only he should make inquiries quietly. Gandhi submitted the report on 13 th May. However, he refused to comply with the request of dispensing with the services of his co-workers. “I must confess that this request has hurt me deeply…. I consider it a privilege to have the association, in the difficult tasks before me, of these able, earnest and honourable men. It seems to me that for me to abandon them is to abandon my work.”

Gradually, the demand for the institution of a Commission of Inquiry by the government escalated. In this respect, Gandhi was summoned to Ranchi on 4 th June by Lieutenant Governor, Sir E. A. Gait for a meeting regarding the submission of a preliminary report of his inquiry.

A few days later, the Lieutenant Governor in Council decided to appoint a Committee of Inquiry to examine and report on the agrarian conditions in Champaran. Gandhiji was appointed as one of its members. As soon as it was constituted, he stopped taking statements of the ryots personally. On 10 th June, the Resolution of the Committee was published which stated their duty as follows: Enquiring into the relations between the landlord and tenant, examining the already available evidence on this subject and submission of recommendation to remove the grievances of the actors involved.

Gandhi Memorial Pillar in Gandhi Sangrahalaya, Motihari.Source: Unexplored Bihar

The Committee initiated its work from mid-July and after a period of three months, submitted its report to the Government on 4 th October 1917. It primarily made the following recommendations: First, the tinkathia system should be abolished. Second, if someone enters into an agreement to grow indigo then it should be voluntary, its term should not extend more than a period of three years and the decision to select the field in which indigo is to be grown should rest with the ryots. Third, the ryots who paid tawan to the factories would get back one fourth of it from them. Fourth, the realization of abwab (illegal cesses) should be stopped.

The Government accepted almost all the recommendations of the Inquiry Committee. To give effect to the recommendations, it also issued a resolution . Based on this report, W. Maude introduced the Champaran Agrarian Bill in the Legislative Council on 29 th November 1917 and also delivered a remarkable speech the very same day. In 1918, ultimately, the Bill was passed and it became the Champaran Agrarian Act. “The tinkathia system which had been in existence for about a century was thus abolished and with it the planters' raj came to an end,” wrote Gandhi in his autobiography.

Indigo Cultivation in Champaran

Demonstrations against indigo, tinkathia system, submitted the report, persuade mahatma gandhi to visit champaran, seemed unimpressed, followed gandhi, stir among the british officials, huge following, wrote to the commissioner of the tirhut division, motive was agitation, section 144 has been issued, suffer the penalty of disobedience, summoned for a trial, willingness to go to jail, postpone the sentencing, withdraw the case, conducting the inquiry, the bihar planters’ association vehemently opposed the inquiry, officials were also apprehensive, interview with w. maude, summoned to ranchi, for a meeting, committee of inquiry, stopped taking statements, resolution of the committee, government accepted almost all the recommendations, champaran agrarian bill, remarkable speech.

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Gandhi's Role in Indian Freedom Struggle: A Critical Understanding

Gandhi had an unflinching and unshakable faith in the theory of non-violence. He played a pivotal role in the India's struggle for freedom which was the world's largest democratic movement. Indian nationalism achieved its highest peak under Gandhi's leadership. No doubt it was he, who organized the movement on mass basis and tried his best to unite both Hindus and Muslims, uplift the economic and social status of the untouchables. Gandhi evolved and developed a powerful non-violent method, giving it the name Satyagraha. Though in contemporary period there are various criticisms on him but we must observe him from that particular period of freedom struggle.

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What was the Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Champaran Movement?

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The Champaran Satyagraha, which is dated 1917, was the first satyagraha movement led by Mahatma Gandhi in the British period and is considered to be an important form of rebellion in the Indian Independence Movement. It was a farmer’s uprising that took place in the Champaran district of Bihar. Farmers were protesting against having to grow indigo with any bare minimum pay for it.

Champaran Satyagraha

The Champaran Satyagraha was a landmark event in India’s struggle for independence from British rule. It took place in the Champaran district of Bihar in 1917 and was led by Mahatma Gandhi . The movement was sparked by the poor treatment and exploitation of indigo farmers by British colonial authorities and plantation owners. Indigo was a cash crop that was forced upon the farmers, who were left with insufficient food to feed their families. This made them vulnerable to exploitation and abuse by plantation owners.

Gandhi arrived in Champaran in 1917 and immediately set to work organizing the farmers. He held meetings with them, listened to their grievances, and helped them organize a nonviolent resistance campaign against the British authorities and plantation owners. The farmers refused to grow indigo and instead demanded better treatment and fair compensation for their crops. Gandhi also encouraged them to organize themselves and stand up for their rights. This marked the beginning of the Champaran Satyagraha, which would go on to become one of the first successful mass movements of its kind.

Champaran Satyagraha and Mahatma Gandhi

The Champaran Satyagraha was a turning point in Gandhi’s career as a political leader and activist. It marked his transition from a lawyer and political activist to a mass leader and symbol of the Indian independence movement. The movement was successful in drawing attention to the plight of the farmers and forced the British government to take action. The government appointed a commission to investigate the situation, and the findings led to the introduction of reforms that improved the lives of the farmers. The Champaran Satyagraha also helped Gandhi develop his philosophy of satyagraha, which he later used in other campaigns, including the Salt March and the Quit India Movement.

Congress supported Gandhi’s efforts and provided resources to help the farmers. This marked the beginning of a close relationship between Gandhi and Congress, which would play a central role in India’s independence movement in the years to come. The Champaran Satyagraha was also an important moment for the Indian independence movement as a whole, as it demonstrated the effectiveness of nonviolent resistance and helped to build momentum for future campaigns.

In conclusion, the Champaran Satyagraha was a significant event in India’s struggle for independence from British rule. It was one of the first successful mass movements led by Gandhi and helped lay the foundation for his later campaigns for Indian independence. The movement demonstrated the power of nonviolent resistance and the ability of ordinary people to stand up against oppression and exploitation. The Champaran Satyagraha continues to be remembered as a symbol of hope and courage, and its legacy continues to inspire people around the world to fight for justice and freedom.

Role of Indigo

Indigo was grown massively for commercial purposes in Bihar, United Provinces, and Bengal Presidency in the year 1750. The nature of the crop was commercial and needed a high quantity of water and after production usually left the soil infertile. Because of these properties, the local farmers were usually opposed to its production and preferred to grow crops for daily needs such as that rice and pulses.

To pressurize the farmers, East India Company came up with policies designated to pressurize the farmers to grow indigo, like this being the condition of issuing loans and collaborating with local kings, nawabs, and landlords. The trade of indigo was usually lucrative and led by several European and Indian merchants and trading companies.

Champaran Movement concluded with the introduction of the Bill known as the Champaran Agrarian Bill. This was one of the first civil disobedience by which the Britishers were bound to make some adjustments. It was through this, that Gandhiji gradually gained the confidence of the people and drew away social evils from the Indian scenario.

Significance of Champaran Satyagraha

• The Champaran Satyagraha ended the oppression of the peasants at the hands of planters in terms of forced cultivation, which continued for a long.
• A detailed assessment of the conditions of the peasants came to be presented by the British.
• Champaran Agrarian Act was passed in 1918, to protect the interests of the peasants.
• It was the first step for Gandhiji to attract the population and gain attention at the nationwide level.
• It staged future struggles which ultimately culminated in the independence of India.

FAQs on Champaran Satyagraha

Question 1: what was the champaran satyagraha.

The Champaran Satyagraha was a nonviolent resistance campaign led by Mahatma Gandhi in 1917 in the Champaran district of Bihar, India. It was a protest against the exploitation and abuse faced by local indigo farmers at the hands of the British colonial authorities and plantation owners.

Question 2: What was Champaran Satyagraha date?

Question 3: what was the significance of the champaran satyagraha.

The Champaran Satyagraha was a turning point in Gandhi’s career as a political leader and activist. It marked his transition from a lawyer and political activist to a mass leader and symbol of the Indian independence movement. The movement was successful in forcing the British government to appoint a commission to investigate the situation and led to the introduction of reforms that improved the lives of the farmers.

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The peasants of champaran and other areas of north bihar were growing indigo under the tinkathia system. under this system, the peasants were bound to plant 3 out of 20 parts of land with indigo for the landlord. this means that out of 20 khatas which make an acre, they had to dedicate 3 khatas for indigo plantation leaving peasants in extreme poverty. mahatma gandhi was invited by some of the peasants to look after their misery. gandhiji accepted the invitation and started a mass movement. gandhiji established an ashram here and handpicked eminent lawyers like dr. rajendra prasad to study the atrocities on the villagers and worked for the betterment of the villages. this was the first time gandhi used the word satyagraha. as a result, gandhiji was arrested and was asked to leave the province for creating unrest. finally, a law was passed exempting farmers from indigo plantation. it was during this agitation he was called bapu and mahatma for the first time..

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Mahatma Gandhi Movements: Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (Mahatma Gandhi) was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat. He earned a degree in law from England in 1891. Before entering Indian politics in 1915, he was in South Africa from 1893 to 1914. In the course of his struggle in South Africa, he developed his political philosophy based on non-violence and Satyagraha to give a new direction to the mass movement.

The emergence of Mahatma Gandhi in Indian politics marked the beginning of a new phase in the Indian national movement, the phase of mass movements. This made Gandhi become the most important figure in the history of the Indian freedom struggle.

Arrival of Gandhi in India

Gandhi returned to India in January 1915. His efforts were well known in South Africa, not just among the educated but also among the common people.

• Gandhiji spent a year travelling around British India, getting to know the land and its people on the advice of Gopal Krishna Gokhale . In February 1916, he made his first major public appearance at the inauguration of the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) .
• Gandhiji’s speech at Banaras revealed that Indian nationalism was an elite phenomenon, and he wished tomake Indian nationalism more properly representative of the Indian people as a whole.

Champaran Satyagraha (1917)

Champaran Satyagraha was the first attempt at mobilising the Indian masses by Gandhi on an invitation by Rajkumar Shukla in the context of indigo peasants of Champaran. This Gandhian Movement was the First Civil Disobedience in India.

• It was mainly due to the tinkathia system of indigo farmers , where peasants were forced to grow indigo on 3/20 part of their total land. 
• Gandhi intervened in the matter but was asked to leave the place by authorities. However, Gandhi refused to leave, thus disobeying the order. Eventually, Gandhi was able to convince the government about the illness of the tinkathia system and look into the matter. 
• The government appointed a committee to go into the matter and nominated Gandhi as a member. As a result, the tinkathia system was abolished, and in a compromise settlement, only 25 % of the money taken by peasants was compensated.
• Participants: Rajendra Prasad, Narhari Parekh, and J.B. Kripalani 

Ahmedabad Mill Strike (1918)

Following the Champaran Satyagraha, the next step in mobilising the masses was the workers of Ahmedabad's urban centre. Ahmedabad Mill Strike was the result of the disagreement between the textile workers and the mill owners arose in March 1918 regarding the end of the plague bonus. 

• Mill owners paid bonuses of 75% of their salary to retain the workers during the outbreak of the plague in 1917. But, after the end of the plague, workers were demanding an increase of 50 % in wages while mill owners were advocating discontinuance of the bonus. As a result, a deadlock was created. 
• Gandhi intervened at the request of Anusuya Sarabhai and undertook a fast unto death. As a result, owners agreed to the 35% wage hike.
• This was the first movement where fasting , a means of self-suffering to create moral pressure, was used by Gandhi as a political weapon in India.

Kheda Satyagraha (1918)

Due to the failure of the monsoon, the peasants of the Kheda district were in distress. In 1918, they mobilised themselves, demanding revenue relief from the government due to the crop failure and rise in prices. Kheda Satyagraha was the First Non-Cooperation by Gandhi in the Indian National Movement.

• According to the government's famine code, cultivators were entitled to total remission if crop yield fell below 25% of the average. But the authorities rejected it. As a result, peasants turned to Gandhi.
• Gandhi intervened on behalf of the poor peasants, advising them to withhold payment and 'fight unto death against such a spirit of vindictiveness and tyranny.'
• The government ordered it to be restrained in the collection of revenues (collected only from those ryots who could afford to pay) and not to confiscate lands. Gandhi decided to withdraw from the struggle.
• Participants: Sardar Vallabhbhai Pate l , Narahari Parikh, and Indulal Yagnik.

Satyagraha Against the Rowlatt Act (1919)

In 1917, a sedition committee was formed under Justice Sidney Rowlatt to curb revolutionary activities and investigate the ‘seditious conspiracy’. It recommended the Rowlatt Act (Anarchic and Revolutionary Offenses Act of 1919) ought to limit the liberty of the people passed by the Imperial Legislative Council. Gandhi launched the Satyagraha against the Rowlatt Act . 

• The Rowlatt Act allowed political and revolutionary activists to be tried without judicial proceedings or even imprisoned without trial for two years. It also suspended the right to habeas corpus and the right to appeal. 
• Gandhiji called it the “Black Act '' and launched the satyagraha against the Act. It involved fasting, praying, disobeying laws, and risking arrest and imprisonment. The satyagraha brought Gandhi to the centre of the Indian national movement. 
• Gandhi also organised Satyagraha Sabha, his own organisation, to carry out the movement. However, due to the violence in some parts of India, Gandhi had to call off the Satyagraha. 
• Gandhi's ability to connect with the masses was demonstrated during this Satyagraha. Gandhian ideology and methods for the freedom struggle (Non-violence and Satyagraha) were introduced to the Indian masses. 

Non-Cooperation Movement (1921-22)

The horrific massacre at Jallianwala Bagh took place in the backdrop of protests against the Rowlatt Act. As a result, Mahatma Gandhi launched the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920.

• In September 1920, the Congress held a special session in Calcutta and resolved to accept Gandhi's proposal of non-cooperation with the British government until Khilafat and Punjab grievances were addressed and self-government was established.
• This Gandhian movement was merged with the Khilafat movement, which demanded that the Turkish Sultan or Khalifa retain control over the Muslim sacred places in the erstwhile Ottoman empire. 
• Methods: Non-cooperation movement included the boycott of schools, colleges, courts, government offices, legislatures, and foreign goods and the return of government-conferred titles and awards.
• Withdrawal: Mahatma Gandhi withdrew the non-cooperation movement following the Chauri Chaura violent incident on 5 February 1922 , in which 23 police officers were killed. After the withdrawal, he focussed on the constructive programme of social reforms. 

Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-34)

After the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Civil Disobedience Movement (also known as Salt Satyagraha ) is regarded as the second major mass movement and a significant advancement in broadening the social reach of India's freedom struggle. 

• Gandhi declared at the Calcutta Congress in 1928 that the British must grant India dominion status, or the country would erupt in a revolution for complete independence. The British paid no attention to this. As a result, INC in its Lahore session (1929) demanded ‘Punra Swaraj’ , and decided to celebrate 26th January as ‘ Independence Day’ . It also declared that a civil disobedience movement would be started under the leadership of Gandhi.
• Gandhi announced the 'Dandi March' against the unjust tax on salt as part of the movement. On April 6 1930 , he violated the salt regulations, thereby launching the Civil Disobedience Movement.
• Induced by Gandhi's extraordinary endeavours at Dandi, defiance of the salt laws spread throughout the country. However, it was halted for a period after the Gandhi-Irwin Pact. 
• When the movement was resumed after the failure of the Second Round Table conference, it began to dwindle towards the end of 1932. It was officially withdrawn in May 1934 .

Quit India Movement (1942)

The Quit India Movement (August Kranti Movement) was the ‘third great wave’ of India’s struggle for freedom, launched on August 8, 1942 , under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi. This Gandhian Movement was more of a rejection of British rule than a traditional Satyagraha, and it influenced the unprecedented and tumultuous events that occurred in Indian history over the next five years.

• It was the result of Indian disillusionment with British rule, with the immediate causes being the failure of the Cripps mission and the hardships caused by World War II . 
• On August 8, 1942, the All India Congress Committee met at Gowalia Tank in Bombay and passed the famous Quit India Resolution. On the same day, Gandhi issued his 'Do or Die' call. It demanded an end to British rule in India with immediate effect, the formation of a provisional government after the war and the declaration of free India .
• As a result, major leaders of the Indian National Congress were arrested and imprisoned without trial by British officials. However, the protests continued across the country with huge mass participation. 
• Although it did not immediately achieve its goals, it contributed to the weakening of British rule and paved the way for the independence of India . 

PYQs on Gandhian Movements 

Q)  Many voices had strengthened and enriched the nationalist movement during the Gandhian phase. Elaborate (UPSC Mains 2019)

Q)  Throw light on the significance of the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi in the present times. (UPSC Mains 2018)

Q)  With reference to the British colonial rule in India, consider the following statements: (UPSC Prelims 2019)

• Mahatma Gandhi was instrumental in the abolition of the system of ‘indentured labour’.
• In Lord Chelmsford’s ‘War Conference’, Mahatma Gandhi did not support the resolution on recruiting Indians for World War.
• Consequent upon the breaking of the Salt Law by the Indian people, the Indian National Congress was declared illegal by the colonial rulers.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

a) 1 and 2 only

b) 1 and 3 only

c) 2 and 3 only

d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (b)

Q)  Which one of the following is a very significant aspect of the Champaran Satyagraha? (UPSC Prelims 2018)

a) Active all-India participation of lawyers, students and women in the National Movement.

b) Active involvement of Dalit and Tribal communities of India in the National Movement.

c) Joining of peasant unrest to India’s National Movement.

d) Drastic decrease in the cultivation of plantation crops and commercial crops

Answer: (c)

Question 5: Quit India Movement was launched in response to (UPSC Prelims 2013)

a) Cabinet Mission Plan

b) Cripps Proposals

c) Simon Commission Report

d) Wavell Plan

FAQs on Gandhian Movements

What are the 7 major movements of gandhiji.

The seven major movements of Mahatma Gandhi included the Champaran Movement, the Ahmedabad Mill Strike, the Kheda Movement, the Satyagraha against the Rowlatt Act, the Non-cooperation Movement, the Civil Disobedience Movement, and the Quit India Movement.

What was Gandhi's first movement in India?

The Champaran Satyagraha of 1917 was Gandhi's first Satyagraha movement in India and is regarded as a historically significant revolt in the Indian Independence Movement. During the British colonial period, a farmer's uprising occurred in the Champaran district of Bihar, India.

What are some of the challenges that Gandhian movements faced?

Gandhian movements faced challenges such as resistance from colonial authorities, lack of widespread support, internal divisions, and the difficulty of maintaining nonviolent discipline among participants. Additionally, economic and social realities often clashed with the idealistic principles of Gandhi's philosophy, making it challenging to achieve lasting change.

What was the impact of the Gandhian movements on the Indian independence struggle?

The Gandhian movements had a profound impact on the Indian independence struggle. Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolent resistance (Satyagraha) and civil disobedience mobilised millions of Indians, uniting them in a peaceful but determined quest for freedom. His leadership inspired the Quit India Movement and other campaigns that eventually led to India gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1947, marking a historic achievement in the nation's history.

Where and when did Mahatma Gandhi make his first public appearance in India upon coming back from South Africa?

On February 4, 1916, in BHU, Gandhiji made his first public appearance since his return from South Africa. He spoke to the crowd in BHU, which was primarily made up of impressionable youngsters, princes, well-dressed individuals, etc.

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• What Was The Role Of Mahatma Gandhi In Champaran Satyagraha

What was the role of Mahatma Gandhi in Champaran Satyagraha?

Mahatma Gandhi played a crucial role in the Champaran Satyagraha. He launched the first satyagraha movement in India in order to fight against the injustice meted out to the peasants of Champaran. 

The novel method of Satyagraha was to be deployed with great effect in Champaran and is considered a historically important rebellion in the Indian freedom struggle.

For more relevant articles, refer to the following links:

• Mahatma Gandhi’s Early Movement
• Gandhi Irwin Pact
• Salt Satyagraha

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History Project On Mahatma Gandhi And The Nationalist Movement For Class 12th CBSE

Table of Contents

Acknowledgment

would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to the successful completion of this History project on “Mahatma Gandhi and the Nationalist Movement.” This project has been a journey of exploration and learning, and I am thankful for the support and guidance received throughout.

First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt thanks to my History teacher, [Teacher’s Name], for providing valuable insights, continuous encouragement, and constructive feedback. Your expertise has been instrumental in shaping the direction of this project.

I am also grateful to my classmates who engaged in insightful discussions, shared resources, and provided moral support. The collaborative effort has enriched the quality of this project.

A special thank you to the staff of the school library for facilitating access to a wide range of resources and reference materials. The availability of these materials significantly enhanced the depth and authenticity of the content.

Last but not least, I would like to express my deepest appreciation to my family for their unwavering support, understanding, and encouragement. Their encouragement kept me motivated during challenging times, and I am truly grateful for their support.

Introduction

As the 20th century dawned, India found itself ensnared in the grip of British colonial rule, a period marked by oppression, economic exploitation, and a fervent desire for self-determination. It was in this historical context that Mahatma Gandhi, born Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi in 1869, rose as a towering figure, leading a transformative movement that would reshape the course of Indian history.

Gandhi wasn’t just a political leader; he embodied a philosophy that echoed the aspirations of millions. His role in the Indian Nationalist Movement was pivotal, steering the course toward freedom from British imperialism. In an era marred by British policies that fueled discontent, Gandhi, with his blend of spirituality, non-violence, and civil disobedience, emerged as a beacon of hope, aiming to awaken the moral conscience of a nation.

The socio-economic landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries was scarred by poverty, discrimination, and a profound yearning for autonomy. Against this backdrop, Gandhi’s entry into the political stage was revolutionary, offering a unique approach that went beyond conventional strategies. His goal was not just political change but a moral revolution, grounded in the principles of truth and justice.

In the following paragraphs, we’ll explore not only Mahatma Gandhi’s life and contributions but also the intricate web of events and ideologies that defined the Indian Nationalist Movement, unraveling the layers of a movement that went beyond political boundaries.

Mahatma Gandhi’s imprint on Indian history is indomitable, extending beyond his role as a leader in the Nationalist Movement. His significance lies not only in guiding India toward independence but also in the profound impact of his philosophy on the nation’s collective consciousness.

Gandhi’s importance emanates from his unique approach to achieving political objectives, centered around the concept of non-violence or “Ahimsa.” In a world accustomed to the brutality of political struggles, Gandhi’s commitment to non-violence was revolutionary, providing a distinctive path for the Indian independence movement.

Ahimsa, for Gandhi, was not just a tactic but a way of life, a transformative ideology seeking to change individuals and societies. This commitment became a powerful tool, positioning the Indian Nationalist Movement as a moral force, gaining both national and international support.

At the core of Gandhi’s philosophy was civil disobedience, a form of nonviolent protest that deliberately violated unjust laws. This approach aimed to expose the moral bankruptcy of oppressive policies rather than overthrow the British government through force. Through movements like the Salt March and the Non-Cooperation Movement, Gandhi catalyzed a new wave of resistance challenging the foundations of British colonial rule.

Gandhi’s ideas resonated not only with the intellectual elite but also with the common man. His ability to mobilize millions stemmed from an astute understanding of the nation’s pulse. By weaving a narrative of self-reliance, dignity, and unity, Gandhi ignited a spark that spread across all walks of life, engulfing people in the fervor of the nationalist cause.

In the upcoming sections, we’ll delve into the practical manifestations of Gandhi’s philosophy, exploring key events and movements that bear the indelible imprint of his ideas. Through this exploration, we aim to illuminate the profound importance of Mahatma Gandhi in shaping the destiny of a nation yearning for freedom.

Objectives of the Nationalist Movement

Let’s now delve into the main goals of the Indian Nationalist Movement:

• Uncover overarching aspirations: The movement was fueled by a desire for autonomy, driven by socio-political and economic objectives that united nationalists in their quest for freedom.
• Demand for self-rule: Indians yearned to break free from the shackles of British colonialism, with the demand for self-rule evolving from decades of discontent.
• Explore key events and movements: We’ll examine strategic movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Salt March, understanding their impact on the national psyche and their pivotal role in the journey toward independence.
• In dissecting these objectives, we aim to uncover the driving forces behind the Nationalist Movement and the strategic maneuvers that defined its trajectory.

Key Events and Movements

Let’s provide a chronological overview of significant events and movements led by Gandhi:

• Gandhi’s leadership timeline: Starting from the early phases of the Indian Nationalist Movement, we’ll explore the progression of events, from Champaran and Kheda Satyagrahas to more widespread movements.
• Non-Cooperation Movement: Launched in 1920, we’ll examine how it marked a turning point in the struggle for independence, its impact on the masses, and its role in shaping non-violent resistance.
• Civil Disobedience Movement: Initiating in 1930 with the Salt March, we’ll evaluate the motivations behind this movement, its widespread participation, and its influence on public sentiment.
• Quit India Movement: We’ll analyze the circumstances leading to the 1942 Quit India Movement, exploring its intensity, scale, and consequences on both the Indian political landscape and World War II.
• By providing a chronological overview and delving into the impact of these pivotal events and movements, we aim to unravel the dynamic tapestry of the Indian Nationalist Movement under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi.

Gandhi’s Leadership Style

Now, let’s explore Mahatma Gandhi’s distinctive leadership style:

• Core principles: Investigate the principles defining Gandhi’s approach, emphasizing his commitment to truth (Satyagraha), non-violence (Ahimsa), and self-reliance.
• Truth and decision-making: Delve into how Gandhi’s unwavering adherence to truth influenced his decisions, fostering trust and integrity.
• Non-violence as resistance: Explore the impact of non-violence as both a moral and strategic dimension of resistance.
• Advocacy for self-reliance: Discuss Gandhi’s emphasis on self-reliance at individual and national levels as tools for empowerment and resilience.
• Mobilizing diverse groups: Analyze Gandhi’s ability to connect with people from various backgrounds, breaking down barriers of caste, class, and religion.
• Inclusive leadership: Examine instances where Gandhi’s leadership successfully bridged societal divides, fostering unity and common purpose.
• Through this exploration, we aim to gain insights into the transformative nature of Gandhi’s leadership within the context of the Indian Nationalist Movement.

Role of Women in the Nationalist Movement

Now, let’s highlight the significant contribution of women in the Indian Nationalist Movement:

• Pivotal role: Illuminate the often overlooked but pivotal role played by women in various capacities, from grassroots activism to leadership roles.
• Women leaders: Spotlight contributions of leaders like Sarojini Naidu and Kamala Nehru, exploring their roles in movements such as Suffragette and Home Rule.
• Grassroots activism: Discuss the widespread participation of women at the grassroots level, showcasing their commitment to the nationalist cause.
• Impact on societal perceptions: Explore how women’s involvement challenged gender norms and societal expectations, transforming perceptions of their roles.
• Women’s organizations: Highlight the formation and activities of women’s organizations, such as the All India Women’s Conference, as platforms for voicing concerns and contributing to the nationalist agenda.

In conclusion, the impact of Mahatma Gandhi and the Nationalist Movement on India’s quest for independence is indelible and profound. Gandhi’s visionary leadership, marked by principles of truth, non-violence, and self-reliance, served as the moral compass that guided millions in their pursuit of freedom. The Nationalist Movement, under his guidance, became a powerful force that transcended political boundaries, uniting a diverse nation under the common goal of liberation from British colonial rule. The strategic brilliance behind key movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement showcased not only the strength of non-violent resistance but also the ability to mobilize masses on an unprecedented scale.

As India emerged from the shadows of colonialism, the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi continued to shape the nation’s identity. His principles became foundational pillars in the construction of a democratic and inclusive society. The echoes of his philosophy reverberated in the drafting of the Indian Constitution, emphasizing values of justice, equality, and fraternity. Post-independence India, guided by the enduring spirit of Gandhi, navigated the challenges of nation-building with resilience and determination. The principles of non-violence and peaceful coexistence remain integral to India’s diplomatic approach on the global stage, solidifying Gandhi’s lasting influence on the nation’s ethos. In reflecting on the journey from colonial subjugation to a vibrant, sovereign democracy, it becomes evident that Mahatma Gandhi’s principles not only paved the way for India’s independence but also continue to illuminate its path towards progress and unity.

Bibliography

• Brown, Judith M. (1991). Gandhi: Prisoner of Hope . Yale University Press.
• Guha, Ramachandra. (2007). Gandhi Before India . Vintage.
• Wolpert, Stanley. (2001). Gandhi’s Passion: The Life and Legacy of Mahatma Gandhi . Oxford University Press.
• Gopal, Sarvepalli. (2006). Jawaharlal Nehru: A Biography . Oxford University Press.
• Fischer, Louis. (1982). The Life of Mahatma Gandhi . HarperCollins.
• Gandhi, Mahatma. (1957). Autobiography: The Story of My Experiments with Truth . Beacon Press.
• Wolpert, Stanley. (2001). A New History of India . Oxford University Press.
• Tendulkar, D. G. (1951). Mahatma: Life of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi . Publications Division, Government of India.
• Bose, Sugata. (2015). His Majesty’s Opponent: Subhas Chandra Bose and India’s Struggle against Empire . Harvard University Press.
• Khan, Yasmin. (2007). The Great Partition: The Making of India and Pakistan . Yale University Press.

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In this project, I delved into in-depth research and analysis, investigating various facets and relevant theories related to the chosen topic. I demonstrated dedication, diligence, and a high level of sincerity throughout the project’s completion.

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Thoroughly researched and analyzed project on “History Project on Mahatma Gandhi And The Nationalist Movement For Class12th CBSE.” Examined the historical background and evolution of the subject matter. Explored the contributions of notable figures in the field. Investigated the key theories and principles associated with the topic. Discussed practical applications and real-world implications. Considered critical viewpoints and alternative theories, fostering a well-rounded understanding. This project has significantly enhanced my knowledge and critical thinking skills in the chosen field of study. It reflects my commitment to academic excellence and the pursuit of knowledge.

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A tale of two Champarans

Motihari/Bettiah: The string of shabby eateries in this rugged, dusty patch of Motihari, where the highway hits the city, fail to induce visitors’ appetite. But these run-down restaurants buzzing with customers offer the best item of the Champaran’s culinary palate - Ahuna meat.

Cooked over charcoal for hours in a closed earthen pot and packed with heavy doses of mustard oil, masala and whole garlic, this Ahuna style has been rechristened as Champaran meat for the rest of India. “Here, everyone calls it Ahuna meat. But in the rest of India, it is Champaran meat,” laughs Santosh Kumar, a local.

A few kilometres down the highway, where the new-found fame of Champaran cuisine fades and the old glory of this region beacons, one finds the train station named after Mahatma Gandhi. Along the road, monuments of many leaders—from Gandhi to Atal Behari Vajpayee dons the cityscape in this historic, sleepy town of Bihar.

Land of Gandhi’s first Satyagraha in India

Two years after Gandhi returned to India, he came to Motihari to participate in a farmers’ uprising. Gandhi’s first Satyagraha, against the indigo cultivation imposed by the British Raj, was a landmark success. The ashram at Bhitiharwa where Gandhi stayed during his Champaran agitation in 1917, is now a famous landmark of India’s freedom struggle.

Built over a small plot 54 km from Bettiah in Pashchim Champaran, the Bhitiharwa ashram is possibly not as frequented as the Sabarmati ashram, but for scores of Bihar leaders, it is the starting point of their political movement.

For Bihar chief minister (CM) Nitish Kumar, Bhitiharwa ashram has been the favourite spot to start his yatras ever since he launched the Nyay Yatra in 2005. Last year in January, the CM picked the same starting block for his last yatra before the polls. Former Prime Minister Chandra Sekhar and former CM Lalu Prasad are among the string of VIP visitors who have come to this place. The latest in the list, Prashant Kishor, kickstarted his Jan Suraj yatra two years ago on October 2 from Bhitiharwa.

“Between 2011 and 2021, I fought 11 elections. Except for Uttar Pradesh, I won all polls. People think Prashant Kishor can make anyone win. But I am launching the yatra not to seek votes but to find the right people. I will make the person fight so well that others will fail. If I have come to win, I will ensure victory,” Kishor said.

But the neglected ashram, a painful reminder of the iconic peasant’s movement possibly reflects the state of affairs in the two Champaran districts.

In the British Raj, farmers suffered at the hands of the colonial rulers who forced them to cultivate indigo—which was used as a dye. Today’s Champaran faces a rampant exodus of young workforce and limited scope of employment. On the western side, lies one of the richest agrarian belts of the state and a key Indo-Nepal trade hub. The eastern part is labeled as one of the poorest districts of Bihar where central schemes come as lifelines for a vast section of the population.

The sugar belt and the poverty-hit hinterlands

As the road wanders into the northern tip of Bihar, the landscape turns greener. This is the sugar belt of Bihar, with more than seven sugar mills operating in this region. The economic and social impact of these mills can be gauged from the fact that the RJD candidate in Valmiki Nagar is Deepak Yadav, the CMD of Tirupati Sugar.

“This is the first time a sugar mill CMD is fighting a Lok Sabha election. It shows the political clout of the mills in the district,” said Amritanshu Rai, a resident of Narkatiyaganj. Rai is a former journalist in Delhi.

“My nomination is not just my nomination. It is on behalf of 18 lakh voters. Previous MPs had disappeared from the constituency after winning the vote. People didn’t even remember them. The biggest issue is how to keep myself available for the local people and not deceit them,” said Yadav.

Three Lok Sabha seats span two Champaran districts - Valmiki Nagar, Paschim Champaran and the Purvi Champaran constituencies. While Valmiki Nagar is a JDU stronghold, Sanjay Jaiswal of the BJP has been the sitting MP in Paschim Champaran since 2009. Similarly, former Union minister Radha Mohan Singh has represented Purvi Champaran since 2009.

A journey from Narkatiaganj to Bettiah to Motihari takes visitors through several poverty-stricken areas of the two districts. Niti Ayog’s Multidimensional Poverty Index report of 2023 pegs nearly 37% of the people in both districts as multidimensionally poor. Araria, with 52% poverty, tops the chart in Bihar.

The politics of aspirations

At the poll office of Sanjay Jaiswal, Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Paschim Champaran district in-charge Vinod Kumar Singh gives a long list of the major achievements of the incumbent MP. “Construction of Piprakothi to Raxual highway and Raxaul bypass, tender is out for Kushinagar to Manuapul highway, Sugauli, Bettiah and Raxual would be world-class stations. HPCL’s ethanol factory has started functioning…” he goes on and on. Most of the projects are related to infrastructure: better roads, doubling of railway lines and new rail links.

Sanjay Pande, former state in charge sips tea from a kulhar, “We are seeking votes on the development of the country under PM Narendra Modi. Our biggest achievement is that the NDA government has turned Bihar into a crime-free state.”

Barely 200 meters away at the election office of Congress candidate Madan Mohan Tiwari, five party workers are fast asleep—possibly a sign of the state of the Congress in Bihar. Of the six assembly seats in this Lok Sabha constituency, four belong to the BJP and two are with the RJD.

Niraj Kumar Tiwari, the Rashtriya Janata Dal’s (RJD) district president flaunts his tilak and questions the rival’s claims. “Not a single project is completed. You can only see foundation stones. The only benefit to this district is a Vande Bharat train, but Jaiswal made zero contribution to it,” he said.

As more RJD enthusiasts join the conversation, Tiwari says, “We are telling people that you have given Sanjay Jaiswal and his father (Madan Prasad Jaiswal) 30 years. Now, please give us five years.”

On the walls of the dimly-lit office, the photo of Madan Mohan Tiwari’s father hangs on the wall. It’s clear that in this part of Bihar, the battle is between two dynasts.

But both sides claim the focus on the development plank (of course caste and other factors are equally relevant). But in the poorest state of India, which is marred with rampant migration and limited industrialization, a large number of voters look forward to a better source of income and welfare measures.

The welfare measures

Two men carry Sangeeta Devi’s latest possession—a meter-long drone—to a small field in Jiwdhara village for a brief demonstration. A crowd of children and adults alike quickly gather around her as Sangeeta, one of the two “drone didi”s of the Purba Champaran district, fidgets with the controls to fly the ‘Namo Drone’ for the wonderstruck villagers.

Government-run welfare schemes are lifelines for thousands of families in this part of Bihar.

At a Mahadalit (poorest social group of Dalits) ‘tola’ (village) in Naurangia, signs of multidimensional poverty are everywhere. Most young men and women have migrated to bigger cities. Older men and women have stayed back.

The home of Bihar’s poorest section has few pucca houses and even fewer toilets. Indu Devi, a farm labourer turned into a cosmetics trader, lives in one of the many thatched-roof huts in this area. She doesn’t have a toilet but got an LED lamp under the Saubhagya scheme—the only source of light in her dark home.

“I earn a few thousand Rupees. I didn’t get PM Aawas (house). But I do get 5 kg of rice,” she said. But the villagers don’t know who to vote for. “Our samaj will decide. Wherever our samaj leaders will tell us, we will vote.”

40 km away from Jiwdhara, Kiran Devi was a housewife busy with daily chores, whose world was confined to the four walls of her house in Madhuban. In 2019, she managed a government credit of ₹ 10 lakhs to set up her tiny food processing unit. “Now, I earn ₹ 30,000-40,000 every month. I even employ 5-6 women of my village,” she said at her “factory”—a pucca house right in front of her home.

Her husband, Mohan Prasad, left her job of supplying cakes and patties in Delhi and helps her wife sell the products—various pickles, multigrain atta, Bengal gram flour and other things—in the local markets and across the state.

Similar beneficiaries and their success stories can be found all across East Champaran, one of the poorest districts of Bihar. The livelihood schemes, coupled with the free foodgrain programme that started after Covid19, have set a parallel narrative of welfare in this election season in Bihar where caste lines are deeply drawn in the political landscape.

The signs of change are encouraging too. At Kauriya village, Ragini Kumar, a graduate student, manages a multi-purpose service centre of the Central Bank of India. With no bank ranches nearby, the service centre is a one-stop shop for making bank deposits, and withdrawals, and subscribing to PM insurance schemes or Atal Pension schemes. “I am educated. I took a short training and started this job. In this far-flung area, monthly transactions amount to ₹ 30-35 lakhs (HT cross-checked the entries),” Ragini says as his husband, an electrician looks on.

For Bihar, two back-to-back elections for the Lok Sabha and the assembly brings hope for a better future. Under Nitish Kumar, the road network has drastically improved. Even remote villages are connected with smooth roads.

The tale of two Champaran needs a further push from mere infrastructure or cross-border trade between India and Nepal. Champaran, just like many other districts, need jobs, better income and a new, aspirational Bihar.

Read more news like this on HindustanTimes.com