Major Differences in Nation Building for Eastern and Western Regions at Independence

Introduction:
India gained independence from British rule on August 15, 1947. However, the newly formed nation faced several challenges in nation-building, particularly in the eastern and western regions. This essay will highlight two major differences in the challenge of nation-building for the eastern and western regions of India at the time of independence.

1. Historical Background:
The eastern and western regions of India have a vastly different historical background, which contributed to the challenges they faced in nation-building at the time of independence.

- Eastern Region:
The eastern region of India, which comprises present-day West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Assam, had a long history of colonialism and exploitation. The British East India Company had established their first factory in Surat in 1612 and gradually expanded their control over the entire region. The British colonial rule had a severe impact on the economic, social, and political structures of the region, leading to poverty, illiteracy, and political disempowerment.

- Western Region:
In contrast, the western region of India, which comprises present-day Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and parts of Madhya Pradesh, had a more diverse historical background. The region was home to several powerful empires and kingdoms, including the Maratha Empire and the Mughal Empire. The region had a strong tradition of trade and commerce, which contributed to the growth of several prosperous cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Pune.

2. Linguistic and Ethnic Diversity:
Another major difference in the challenge of nation-building for the eastern and western regions of India was the linguistic and ethnic diversity of the regions.

- Eastern Region:
The eastern region of India is known for its linguistic and ethnic diversity. The region is home to several major language groups, including Bengali, Oriya, Bhojpuri, and Assamese. The region has a significant tribal population, which has been historically marginalized and excluded from mainstream politics and development.

- Western Region:
The western region of India is also linguistically and ethnically diverse, but to a lesser extent than the eastern region. The region is primarily dominated by Marathi, Gujarati, and Rajasthani-speaking communities. The region has a significant Dalit population, which has faced discrimination and exclusion from mainstream society and politics.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the challenges of nation-building in the eastern and western regions of India at the time of independence were influenced by several factors, including historical background and linguistic and ethnic diversity. Despite these challenges, India has made significant progress in nation-building over the past seven decades, but there is still a long way to go in achieving inclusive and sustainable development for all regions and communities.