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GS1 PYQ (Mains Answer Writing): Role of Gandhi in Independence | History for UPSC CSE PDF Download

How different would have been the achievement of Indian independence without Mahatma Gandhi? Discuss. (GS 1 UPSC MAINS )

  • Gandhi was the central figure in the Indian national movement. He played a major role in attaining the independence. He was a preacher of non-violence. Though the non-violence has been a dominant aspect of Indian civilization from the time of Buddha, nevertheless Gandhi was the first leader to use it as the instrument for the attainment of Swaraj. This provided a strong moral force in fighting against the mighty British Empire. 
  • The freedom movement as started by the Congress was in a Think-Tank mode. The two segments of Congress, the Moderates and Extremists were moving on two different ideologies. 
  • Further, the revolutionary terrorism was also increasing due to various policies of British India. Along with that communalism was also increasing and riots became very common. 
  • Gandhi transformed the whole movement into an activist mode which helped in Congress getting mainstream popularity and become vanguard of the movement. 
  • People of all segments, caste and class participated in freedom movement under him. He has led to generation of feeling of national integration and solidarity. 
  • Gandhi was not merely a political leader; he was also an important spiritual figure for many young leaders and the large number of Indian masses. This added full vigour to the fight for independence as lot of people could connect Swaraj with religion and religious way of life. 
  • If Gandhiji would not have been present then our nation would have been more divided on communal and caste angle.

Topics - Gandhi

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FAQs on GS1 PYQ (Mains Answer Writing): Role of Gandhi in Independence - History for UPSC CSE

1. What was the role of Gandhi in India's independence movement?
Ans. Mahatma Gandhi played a pivotal role in India's independence movement. He advocated for non-violent civil disobedience and led various campaigns such as the Salt March, Quit India Movement, and the Non-Cooperation Movement. His philosophy of non-violence and Satyagraha inspired millions of Indians to join the freedom struggle and peacefully resist British colonial rule.
2. How did Gandhi influence the Indian National Congress?
Ans. Gandhi's influence on the Indian National Congress was significant. He became a prominent leader of the party and used his principles of non-violence and Satyagraha to guide its actions. He emphasized the importance of unity and inclusivity within the Congress and urged members to work towards the goal of swaraj (self-rule). Gandhi's leadership and ideology shaped the Congress's strategies and tactics during the independence movement.
3. What were Gandhi's contributions to the Indian independence movement?
Ans. Gandhi made several significant contributions to India's independence movement. Firstly, he popularized the concept of non-violent resistance, which became a powerful tool against British rule. Secondly, his emphasis on swadeshi (self-reliance) and promotion of khadi (hand-spun cloth) helped in building a sense of economic independence and unity among Indians. Additionally, Gandhi's championing of the rights of marginalized communities, such as the untouchables, helped to create a more inclusive and egalitarian movement.
4. How did Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence impact the independence movement?
Ans. Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence had a profound impact on the independence movement. It provided a moral foundation and alternative to armed resistance, which had been the dominant approach in previous struggles against colonialism. Non-violent protests, strikes, and civil disobedience campaigns led by Gandhi and his followers gained widespread support and drew international attention to the plight of India under British rule. This philosophy also promoted unity and peaceful coexistence among different religious and ethnic groups in the country.
5. What challenges did Gandhi face during the independence movement?
Ans. Gandhi faced numerous challenges during the independence movement. One major challenge was the opposition from certain factions within the Indian National Congress, who disagreed with his methods and ideologies. Another challenge was the repressive measures taken by the British authorities to suppress the movement, including arrests, violence, and censorship. Gandhi also faced criticism and resistance from communal forces and conservative elements within society. Despite these challenges, he persevered and remained committed to his principles, eventually leading India to independence.
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