All questions of Politics in India Since Independence for UPSC CSE Exam

Non alignment policy!

-"Garibi hatao " was the theme n Slogan of indra Gandhi
1971 election campaign n was later used by her son rajeev Gandhi n then by her grandson rahul gandhi during the general elections.
- It's literally meaning is remove poverty.
- It was designed by Gandhi to get an national support both from rural n urban side.
- It was a part of 5th" five year plans ".

Assertion (A): Congress's Dominance
The assertion states that the Indian National Congress (INC) maintained dominance in the first three general elections held in India after independence (1951-52, 1957, and 1962). This is indeed true as the INC won a significant majority in these elections, showcasing its strong foothold in Indian politics during that period.
Reason (R): Factors Behind Success
The reason provided highlights two critical factors for the INC's electoral success:
- Strong Organizational Structure: The INC had a well-established organizational framework that allowed it to mobilize support effectively across diverse regions and communities in India.
- Jawaharlal Nehru's Charismatic Leadership: As the first Prime Minister of India, Nehru's vision and charisma played a pivotal role in garnering public support for the party. His leadership inspired confidence among the electorate, contributing to the party's popularity.
Conclusion: Relationship Between A and R
Given that both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason correctly explains why the INC maintained its dominance, the correct answer is option 'A': Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
This deep-rooted connection between the party's organizational strength and Nehru's leadership is essential for understanding the political landscape of early independent India. The Congress's ability to navigate the challenges of a newly independent nation was crucial in establishing its dominance in these elections.

Analysis of Statements
To determine the correctness of the statements regarding India's economic policies and initiatives, let's break down each statement individually.
Statement i: The first two five-year plans in India laid the foundations for future economic growth through the establishment of mega dams and heavy industries.
- This statement is correct. The first two five-year plans (1951-1961) focused on the development of infrastructure through mega projects like dams (e.g., Bhakra Nangal Dam) and the establishment of heavy industries, which were essential for economic growth.
Statement ii: The Green Revolution primarily benefited small-scale farmers, leading to widespread agricultural prosperity across all regions of India.
- This statement is incorrect. The Green Revolution (1960s-1980s) mainly benefited large and medium-scale farmers who could afford the inputs like high-yield variety seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation. Small-scale farmers often lacked access to these resources, leading to disparities in agricultural prosperity.
Statement iii: The abolition of the Zamindari system was a significant land reform that aimed to consolidate land holdings in India.
- This statement is correct. The abolition of the Zamindari system in the 1950s aimed to eliminate feudal landholding structures and redistribute land to peasants, thereby improving agricultural productivity and equity.
Statement iv: Operation Flood, also known as the White Revolution, was initiated to create a nationwide milk grid to enhance milk production.
- This statement is correct. Launched in 1970, Operation Flood aimed to increase milk production and establish a national milk grid, which significantly transformed India's dairy sector.
Conclusion
Based on the analysis, the correct statements are i, iii, and iv. Therefore, the correct answer is option 'C'.

Consequences of Linguistic States in India
The creation of linguistic states in India post-1956 had significant implications for the political and cultural landscape of the country. The correct answer to the question emphasizes the positive outcomes of this administrative reorganization.
Addressing Regional Demands for Recognition
- The formation of states based on linguistic lines allowed various linguistic and cultural groups to gain political representation.
- This move acknowledged the distinct identities and aspirations of different regions, helping to quell longstanding regional grievances.
Strengthening National Unity by Accommodating Diversity
- Rather than creating divisions, the linguistic state policy promoted a sense of belonging among diverse groups.
- By recognizing and accommodating various languages and cultures, India fostered a more inclusive national identity.
- This approach helped to unify the country while respecting its rich diversity, contributing to social harmony.
Decrease in Democratic Participation (Not Applicable)
- The assertion that it led to a decrease in democratic participation (option ii) is incorrect.
- In fact, the creation of linguistic states encouraged greater participation as local populations felt more connected to their governments.
Severe Divisions within the Indian Union (Not Applicable)
- While some critics argue that linguistic states could lead to fragmentation, the overall effect was one of greater cohesion rather than severe divisions.
- The policy facilitated smoother governance and better representation, which typically strengthens the union rather than undermining it.
In conclusion, options i and iii highlight the positive aspects of creating linguistic states, making option 'A' the correct choice.

Significance of the First General Election in India
The first general election in India, held in 1952, marked a turning point in the country’s democratic evolution. This event was monumental for several reasons:
Establishment of Democracy
- India, freshly independent from colonial rule, adopted a democratic framework.
- The election represented the first time citizens could exercise their right to vote in a free and fair manner.
Demonstration of Viability
- The successful conduct of the elections showcased the ability to manage a democratic process in a nation characterized by vast diversity in terms of culture, language, and religion.
- Despite a significant portion of the population being illiterate, the elections were organized effectively, indicating that democracy could thrive even in challenging conditions.
Mass Participation
- Over 173 million people participated in the elections, reflecting a strong engagement from the populace.
- The sheer scale of the exercise highlighted the commitment of the Indian people to democratic values.
Conclusion
Given these points, both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are indeed true. The first general election was a milestone that demonstrated democracy's viability in India. The success of the electoral process illustrated that a diverse and largely illiterate population could participate in governance, affirming the assertion. Thus, the correct answer is option 'A': both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.

The General Elections of 2004 resulted in a coalition government.

In the General Elections of 2004 in India, no single party was able to secure a majority in the Lok Sabha (the lower house of the Indian Parliament). As a result, a coalition government was formed with the support of multiple political parties. The coalition government was led by the Indian National Congress and its allies.

Reasons for the coalition government:

1. Lack of majority: None of the political parties, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress, were able to secure the required number of seats (272 out of 543) to form a government independently. This led to the necessity of forming a coalition government.

2. Regional diversity: India is a diverse country with multiple states, each having its own regional political parties. These regional parties play a crucial role in the formation of a coalition government. In 2004, several regional parties joined hands with the Congress to form a coalition government.

3. Anti-incumbency factor: The ruling party at that time, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), faced anti-incumbency sentiment due to various factors such as economic issues, internal conflicts, and dissatisfaction among certain sections of society. This contributed to the fragmentation of votes and the formation of a coalition government.

4. United Progressive Alliance (UPA): The coalition government formed after the 2004 elections was known as the United Progressive Alliance. It consisted of various political parties, including the Indian National Congress, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Nationalist Congress Party, and others.

Impact of the coalition government:

1. Stability and governance: The coalition government faced challenges in terms of decision-making and policy implementation due to the involvement of multiple parties with different ideologies. However, it managed to provide a stable government and effectively govern the country for the next five years.

2. Policy reforms: The coalition government focused on implementing various policy reforms in sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and rural development. It introduced initiatives like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) and Right to Information Act (RTI), which had a significant impact on the lives of the people.

3. Foreign policy: The coalition government pursued a balanced foreign policy approach, maintaining relations with both the United States and other major powers, as well as strengthening ties with neighboring countries. It played a crucial role in shaping India's position on global issues.

In conclusion, the General Elections of 2004 in India resulted in a coalition government due to the lack of a single party securing a majority. The coalition government led by the Indian National Congress successfully governed the country for the next five years, implementing various policy reforms and maintaining stability.

Understanding the Assertion and Reason
The assertion and reason in question revolve around the historical context of Hyderabad's accession to the Indian Union post-independence.
Assertion (A): The Nizam of Hyderabad resisted joining the Indian Union to maintain the state's independence.
- The Nizam, Mir Osman Ali, sought to retain Hyderabad's sovereignty.
- He was reluctant to integrate with India due to fears of losing power and autonomy.
Reason (R): The people of Hyderabad were largely in favor of joining the Indian Union and opposed the Nizam's rule.
- Many citizens supported the idea of joining India, partly due to dissatisfaction with the Nizam's autocratic governance.
- The popular sentiment favored integration to ensure democratic governance and social reforms.
Why Option 'B' is Correct
- Both assertion and reason are true.
- The Nizam's resistance was indeed aimed at preserving independence, reflecting his desire to maintain control.
- However, the people's support for joining the Indian Union did not directly explain the Nizam's actions. His resistance stemmed from a personal desire for power rather than a reflection of public sentiment.
Conclusion
In summary, while both the assertion and reason hold true, the reason does not accurately explain the assertion. The Nizam's motives were rooted in his own interests, making option 'B' the correct choice.

The correct answer is option 'C', which states that the state of emergency was declared on 25th June, 1975. Let's explore the details behind this answer.

The State of Emergency in India:
The state of emergency refers to a period in which a government grants itself extraordinary powers to maintain law and order, often suspending certain civil liberties. In the case of India, the state of emergency was declared in 1975 due to a political crisis.

The Background:
- Indira Gandhi, the then Prime Minister of India, declared a state of emergency on 25th June, 1975.
- The political climate leading up to the emergency was tumultuous, marked by widespread protests, strikes, and civil unrest.
- The government faced numerous challenges, including economic instability, rising inflation, and a sharp decline in public confidence.

Reasons for Declaring the State of Emergency:
- One of the primary reasons behind the declaration of the state of emergency was the controversial court ruling against Indira Gandhi. The Allahabad High Court found her guilty of electoral malpractices during the 1971 elections and declared her election to the Lok Sabha (lower house of parliament) as void.
- This ruling posed a significant threat to her political career and led to calls for her resignation. Fearing the loss of power, she made the decision to declare a state of emergency.
- Indira Gandhi justified the emergency as necessary to maintain law and order and prevent the destabilization of the nation.

Impact of the State of Emergency:
- The declaration of the state of emergency resulted in the suspension of civil liberties, such as freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and the right to protest.
- The government arrested and detained numerous political leaders, activists, and journalists who were critical of the regime.
- Censorship was imposed on the media, and newspapers were heavily regulated.
- The state of emergency saw a consolidation of power within the government, with Indira Gandhi and her close associates exercising significant control over decision-making.
- The emergency lasted for a period of 21 months, during which the government implemented various controversial policies and faced widespread criticism both domestically and internationally.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the state of emergency in India was declared on 25th June, 1975, by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. It was a response to a political crisis triggered by a court ruling against her, which posed a threat to her political career. The emergency resulted in the suspension of civil liberties and the consolidation of power within the government. It lasted for 21 months and was marked by widespread criticism and controversy.

Challenges Faced by India After Independence
India gained independence from British rule in 1947, and the newly formed nation encountered several significant challenges. Among the options provided, the correct answer is a) i and iii. Here’s a breakdown of the primary challenges:
Building a United India by Integrating Princely States
- Fragmented Territory: At the time of independence, India was a patchwork of princely states and British territories.
- Integration Efforts: Leaders like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a crucial role in persuading princely states to join the Indian Union.
- Significance: Successfully integrating these states was vital for national unity and governance.
Establishing a Democratic System with Rights for All
- Democratic Foundations: One of the foremost challenges was to establish a robust democratic framework post-independence.
- Universal Rights: The Indian Constitution, adopted in 1950, aimed to guarantee fundamental rights and equality for all citizens.
- Political Stability: Ensuring a stable and inclusive democracy was essential for the country’s progress.
Incorrect Options
- Setting Up a Monarchy Across the Country (ii): India opted for a democratic system rather than a monarchy, making this option invalid.
- Ending Foreign Trade with Other Nations (iv): India did not aim to end foreign trade; rather, it sought to engage with the global economy.
In conclusion, the challenges of building a united nation and establishing a democratic system with rights for all were paramount in shaping India's post-independence trajectory.