Free Solved Assignment Ignou MHI-09 INDIAL NATIONAL MOVEMENT Current Year 2024-2025 Pdf
Examination. It is therefore suggested that you do them within time. In M.A. Second year you will have to do a total of 4 assignments (MHI-03, MHI-06, MHI-08, MHI-09, MHI-10, MPSE-003, MPSE-004).
MHI-09: INDIAL NATIONAL MOVEMENT
Marxist and Subaltern Studies historians offer distinct perspectives on Indian nationalism, emphasizing different aspects and motivations behind the anti-colonial struggle. Here's a comparative analysis of their views:
Marxist Historians
Key Focus:
- Class Struggle and Economic Factors: Marxist historians view Indian nationalism primarily through the lens of class struggle and economic exploitation. They argue that the nationalist movement was driven by the material interests of different classes, particularly the bourgeoisie and the proletariat.
- Role of the Bourgeoisie: Marxist scholars often highlight the role of the Indian bourgeoisie in leading the nationalist movement. They argue that the bourgeoisie used nationalism to further their own economic interests, seeking political power to protect and expand their economic gains.
- Colonial Exploitation: The focus is on the economic exploitation by British colonialism, including the drain of wealth from India, the impact on indigenous industries, and the creation of a dependent economy.
- Agrarian and Labor Movements: Marxist historians emphasize the importance of agrarian struggles and labor movements as integral parts of the nationalist movement, often viewing them as more radical and genuine expressions of popular discontent.
Prominent Figures:
- Bipan Chandra
- Irfan Habib
- D.D. Kosambi
Subaltern Studies Historians
Key Focus:
- Subaltern Agency and Voices: Subaltern Studies historians focus on the experiences, actions, and perspectives of the subaltern groups—peasants, tribals, workers, and other marginalized communities. They argue that mainstream nationalist historiography often overlooks these voices.
- Critique of Elite Nationalism: They critique the dominance of elite perspectives in the historiography of Indian nationalism, suggesting that the elite leadership often compromised with colonial rulers and suppressed more radical subaltern aspirations.
- Fragmented and Plural Narratives: Subaltern Studies scholars emphasize the fragmented and plural nature of resistance against colonialism, suggesting that there were multiple, often localized forms of resistance that did not always align with the goals of the mainstream nationalist leadership.
- Cultural and Ideological Aspects: They explore the cultural, ideological, and symbolic aspects of subaltern resistance, highlighting how these groups mobilized their own cultural resources and traditions in their struggle against colonial rule.
Prominent Figures:
- Ranajit Guha
- Dipesh Chakrabarty
- Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak
Comparative Analysis
Agency and Leadership:
- Marxist historians focus on the leadership of the bourgeoisie and the working class, while Subaltern Studies historians emphasize the agency of marginalized and subaltern groups.
- Marxists see the bourgeoisie as the primary leaders of the nationalist movement, with the working class playing a crucial role in radical moments. Subaltern Studies scholars, however, argue that the real impetus for change came from the grassroots, often in opposition to the elite leadership.
Methodology:
- Marxist historiography is grounded in economic determinism and class analysis, focusing on the material conditions and economic interests driving historical change.
- Subaltern Studies adopts a more interdisciplinary approach, incorporating cultural studies, postcolonial theory, and anthropology to understand the complexities of subaltern experiences and resistance.
Interpretation of Nationalism:
- Marxists view nationalism as a primarily economic and class-based phenomenon, with the nationalist movement seen as a means for the bourgeoisie to secure political power and economic control.
- Subaltern Studies scholars see nationalism as a contested and multifaceted phenomenon, where the aspirations of the subaltern classes often diverged from those of the elite nationalist leaders.
Critique of Mainstream Nationalism:
- Both schools critique mainstream nationalism but from different angles. Marxists critique the bourgeois leadership for their class interests, while Subaltern Studies scholars criticize the elite for marginalizing subaltern voices and suppressing radical forms of resistance.
In summary, while Marxist historians emphasize economic exploitation and class struggle as the primary drivers of Indian nationalism, Subaltern Studies historians focus on the diverse and often suppressed voices of the subaltern groups, offering a more fragmented and culturally nuanced view of the nationalist movement.
Question 2. Write a note on economic nationalism with special reference to Indian thinkers.
Ans. Economic nationalism in India refers to the advocacy for national control over the economy, emphasizing self-reliance, the protection of domestic industries, and resistance to foreign economic dominance. This ideology was particularly significant during the colonial period and early years of independence, shaping India's economic policies and intellectual discourse. Here’s a detailed note on economic nationalism with special reference to Indian thinkers:
Key Concepts of Economic Nationalism in India
Swadeshi Movement: The Swadeshi Movement, which began in the early 20th century, was a key expression of economic nationalism. It promoted the use of Indian-made goods and the boycott of British products to undermine colonial economic exploitation.
Self-Reliance (Atmanirbhar): Economic nationalism emphasized self-reliance, advocating for the development of indigenous industries and reducing dependence on foreign goods and technology.
Protectionism: Protectionist policies were advocated to shield nascent Indian industries from foreign competition, allowing them to grow and develop.
Economic Decolonization: Economic nationalists sought to reverse the economic policies imposed by the British, which had led to the deindustrialization and impoverishment of India.
Prominent Indian Thinkers and Their Contributions
Dadabhai Naoroji
Key Contributions:
- Drain Theory: Dadabhai Naoroji was one of the earliest Indian thinkers to systematically analyze the economic impact of British rule. His "Drain Theory" argued that colonial policies resulted in a substantial transfer of wealth from India to Britain, impoverishing India.
- Advocacy for Indigenous Industries: Naoroji emphasized the importance of developing Indian industries and reducing economic dependence on Britain.
Mahatma Gandhi
Key Contributions:
- Swadeshi and Khadi: Gandhi was a strong advocate of the Swadeshi movement. He promoted the use of Khadi (hand-spun cloth) as a symbol of self-reliance and resistance to British economic dominance.
- Village Economy: Gandhi emphasized the revitalization of rural India through cottage industries and self-sufficient village economies, opposing the industrial model imposed by the British.
Jawaharlal Nehru
Key Contributions:
- Planned Economy: Nehru, India's first Prime Minister, adopted a mixed economy model with significant state intervention. He was influenced by socialist ideas and aimed to build a self-reliant economy through five-year plans.
- Industrialization: Nehru believed in rapid industrialization as a means to achieve economic independence and reduce poverty. He supported the development of heavy industries and public sector enterprises.
B.R. Ambedkar
Key Contributions:
- Economic Democracy: Ambedkar argued that political democracy must be accompanied by economic democracy. He advocated for state control over key industries and land reforms to ensure equitable distribution of wealth.
- Critique of Capitalism: Ambedkar was critical of capitalism and argued for a more egalitarian economic structure to uplift marginalized communities.
M.G. Ranade
Key Contributions:
- Economic Reforms: M.G. Ranade was an early advocate of economic reforms and industrialization. He stressed the need for infrastructural development, including railways, irrigation, and modern industries, to boost India's economy.
- Role of the State: Ranade believed that the state should play a crucial role in economic development and protect indigenous industries from foreign competition.
Impact of Economic Nationalism
- Policy Formulation: Economic nationalism significantly influenced India's economic policies post-independence. The adoption of a mixed economy, focus on self-reliance, and protection of domestic industries were direct outcomes of nationalist economic thought.
- Industrialization: The emphasis on industrialization and the establishment of public sector enterprises were driven by the desire to achieve economic independence and reduce reliance on foreign technology and capital.
- Agricultural Reforms: Land reforms and measures to improve agricultural productivity were influenced by the nationalist agenda to ensure economic equity and uplift the rural economy.
Conclusion
Economic nationalism played a pivotal role in shaping India's economic policies and intellectual discourse, both during the colonial period and in the early years of independence. Indian thinkers like Dadabhai Naoroji, Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, B.R. Ambedkar, and M.G. Ranade made significant contributions to this ideology, advocating for self-reliance, protectionism, and economic democracy. Their ideas continue to influence contemporary economic debates in India, particularly in the context of globalization and economic reforms.
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Question 4. Write a note on the Non-cooperation movement.
Ans. The Non-Cooperation Movement, led by Mahatma Gandhi and launched in 1920, was a significant chapter in India's struggle for independence from British rule. It marked a shift towards mass mobilization and non-violent resistance. Here is an overview of the movement, including its background, objectives, key events, and outcomes:
Background
- Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919): The brutal killing of hundreds of unarmed Indians by British troops in Amritsar galvanized widespread anger and disillusionment with British rule.
- Rowlatt Act (1919): This act allowed the British government to imprison Indians without trial, further fueling resentment.
- Khilafat Movement: The global Muslim community's anger over the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire post-World War I provided a unique opportunity for Hindu-Muslim unity in India against the British.
Objectives
- Swaraj (Self-Rule): The primary aim was to achieve self-governance and independence from British rule.
- Boycott of British Institutions and Goods: The movement sought to delegitimize British rule by encouraging Indians to boycott British goods, educational institutions, law courts, and elections.
- Promotion of Swadeshi: The movement emphasized the use of Indian-made goods and the revival of indigenous industries, particularly hand-spinning and weaving (Khadi).
- Non-Violent Protest: Under Gandhi's leadership, the movement stressed non-violence (ahimsa) as a principle means of resistance.
Key Events
- Boycott of British Goods and Institutions: Indians were urged to give up British titles, withdraw from British schools and colleges, and boycott foreign cloth and goods.
- Resignation from Government Jobs: Many Indian officials and lawyers resigned from their positions, including notable figures like C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru.
- Mass Mobilization: Gandhi toured the country to garner support, resulting in widespread participation from urban and rural areas, including peasants, workers, and students.
- Economic Impact: The boycott of British goods, especially cloth, led to a significant impact on British economic interests. The revival of Khadi became a symbol of resistance and self-reliance.
- Chauri Chaura Incident (1922): In a violent clash in Chauri Chaura, Uttar Pradesh, protesters set a police station on fire, killing 22 policemen. This incident led Gandhi to call off the movement, emphasizing his commitment to non-violence.
Outcomes
- Temporary Halt of the Movement: Gandhi's decision to suspend the movement after the Chauri Chaura incident was controversial but underscored his commitment to non-violence.
- Increased Political Awareness: The movement succeeded in raising political consciousness across the country, involving a wide cross-section of Indian society in the freedom struggle.
- Strengthening of Congress: The Indian National Congress transformed into a mass-based party, gaining significant support and credibility.
- Hindu-Muslim Unity: The movement initially fostered Hindu-Muslim unity, particularly through the Khilafat Movement, though this unity proved to be fragile in the long term.
- Foundations for Future Movements: The Non-Cooperation Movement laid the groundwork for future mass movements like the Civil Disobedience Movement (1930) and the Quit India Movement (1942).
Conclusion
The Non-Cooperation Movement was a watershed moment in India's struggle for independence, showcasing the power of mass mobilization and non-violent resistance. Despite its premature end, the movement had a profound impact on the Indian nationalist movement, shaping the strategies and ideologies of future campaigns. It demonstrated the potential of collective action and the importance of non-violence in the quest for freedom.
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Question. 7 Discuss the views of various historians regarding the relationship between nationalism and peasantry.
Ans. The relationship between nationalism and peasantry in India has been a subject of considerable debate among historians. Different scholars have offered varied interpretations of how the peasantry interacted with the nationalist movement and how their struggles and aspirations were incorporated into the broader framework of Indian nationalism. Here are some key perspectives:
1. Marxist Historians
Key Figures: Bipan Chandra, A.R. Desai, D.D. Kosambi
Views:
- Class Struggle Perspective: Marxist historians view the peasant movements primarily through the lens of class struggle. They argue that the peasantry's participation in the nationalist movement was driven by their economic grievances and the exploitative conditions they faced under both colonial rule and indigenous landlords.
- Agrarian Movements: According to Marxists, agrarian movements like the Tebhaga Movement, Telangana Rebellion, and the Malabar Rebellion were critical expressions of peasant resistance that intersected with the nationalist struggle.
- Economic Exploitation: A.R. Desai, in his seminal work "Social Background of Indian Nationalism," emphasizes that the exploitation of the peasantry by colonial policies and feudal structures was a major catalyst for their involvement in the nationalist movement.
- Nationalism and Class Interests: Marxist scholars often argue that while the peasantry participated in the nationalist movement, their class interests were sometimes sidelined by the bourgeois leadership of the Indian National Congress.
2. Subaltern Studies Historians
Key Figures: Ranajit Guha, Gyanendra Pandey, Partha Chatterjee
Views:
- Peasant Agency: Subaltern Studies historians focus on the agency of the peasantry and other marginalized groups, emphasizing their active role in shaping the nationalist movement rather than being mere followers of elite leaders.
- Autonomous Movements: Ranajit Guha, in his work "Elementary Aspects of Peasant Insurgency in Colonial India," argues that peasant movements often had their own autonomous character and motivations, which were sometimes distinct from or even in opposition to mainstream nationalist goals.
- Fragmented Resistance: Subaltern scholars highlight the fragmented and localized nature of peasant resistance, suggesting that these movements often had their own distinct cultural and social contexts.
- Critique of Elite Nationalism: Subaltern historians criticize mainstream nationalist historiography for marginalizing the contributions and perspectives of the peasantry and other subaltern groups.
3. Nationalist Historians
Key Figures: R.C. Majumdar, Bipan Chandra (also identified with Marxist historiography to some extent)
Views:
- Integration with Nationalism: Nationalist historians argue that the peasantry was an integral part of the nationalist movement. They highlight the role of Congress leaders in mobilizing peasants and incorporating their demands into the broader struggle for independence.
- Mass Movements: The participation of the peasantry in mass movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement is seen as evidence of their commitment to the nationalist cause.
- Leadership and Mobilization: These historians emphasize the efforts of leaders like Gandhi, Nehru, and Sardar Patel in addressing peasant grievances and mobilizing them for the national struggle. Gandhi's focus on rural India and his promotion of Khadi and village industries are often highlighted as key aspects of his strategy to involve the peasantry.
4. Post-Colonial Historians
Key Figures: Sugata Bose, Ayesha Jalal
Views:
- Regional and Comparative Perspectives: Post-colonial historians often adopt a regional and comparative perspective, analyzing peasant movements within specific regional contexts and comparing them with similar movements in other parts of the world.
- Complex Interactions: Sugata Bose, in his work "Peasant Labor and Colonial Capital," examines the complex interactions between peasant labor, colonial capital, and nationalist politics in Bengal. He argues that peasant struggles were shaped by a range of factors, including economic conditions, regional politics, and cultural practices.
- Transnational Dimensions: Ayesha Jalal, in "The Sole Spokesman," explores the transnational dimensions of peasant movements and their connections with broader global trends. She argues that peasant nationalism in India cannot be fully understood without considering its links with international developments.
Conclusion
The relationship between nationalism and the peasantry in India is a multifaceted and complex topic, interpreted differently by various schools of historiography. Marxist historians emphasize the economic and class dimensions of peasant participation, Subaltern Studies scholars focus on peasant agency and autonomous resistance, nationalist historians highlight the integration of peasant struggles with the broader nationalist movement, and post-colonial historians offer regional and transnational perspectives. Each perspective adds a unique dimension to our understanding of how the peasantry contributed to and interacted with the Indian nationalist movement.
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Question. 8 Write a note on the relationship between the nationalist movement and the Dalits.
Ans. The relationship between the Indian nationalist movement and the Dalits (formerly known as "untouchables") is a complex and multifaceted one. The Dalits, who have historically been marginalized and oppressed within the Indian caste system, played a significant but often overlooked role in the struggle for India's independence. Their interaction with the nationalist movement was marked by both collaboration and conflict. Here is an overview of this relationship:
Early Nationalist Movement and Dalits
Limited Inclusion: In the early phases of the nationalist movement, the Indian National Congress (INC) largely represented the interests of the upper castes and the urban middle class. Dalits were largely excluded from the leadership and decision-making processes within the Congress.
Social Reformers: Some social reformers and early nationalists, like Jyotirao Phule and Narayana Guru, worked independently of the Congress to uplift Dalits and lower castes. They emphasized education, social equality, and economic empowerment for Dalits.
Gandhi and the Congress
Mahatma Gandhi's Approach:
- Harijan Movement: Gandhi referred to Dalits as "Harijans" (children of God) and launched the Harijan Movement to improve their social status and integrate them into the mainstream society. He advocated for the abolition of untouchability and promoted the inclusion of Dalits in temples, schools, and public spaces.
- Symbolic Actions: Gandhi's symbolic acts, such as living with Dalit families and cleaning toilets, were aimed at breaking caste barriers. However, his approach was often criticized for being paternalistic and not addressing the structural issues of caste oppression.
Congress Policies:
- Reservations and Quotas: The Congress supported measures like reservations and quotas for Dalits in educational institutions and government jobs, aiming to provide them with better opportunities.
- Inclusion in Leadership: Despite these efforts, Dalits were often underrepresented in the leadership of the Congress and other mainstream nationalist organizations.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Dalit Movement
Ambedkar's Critique of Congress:
- Independent Dalit Politics: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a prominent Dalit leader and social reformer, criticized the Congress and Gandhi for their failure to adequately address the issues faced by Dalits. He argued that the Congress was dominated by upper-caste interests and did not truly represent the Dalits.
- Demand for Separate Electorates: Ambedkar demanded separate electorates for Dalits to ensure their political representation. This demand led to a significant conflict with Gandhi, culminating in the Poona Pact of 1932, where Ambedkar agreed to reserved seats for Dalits in the legislature instead of separate electorates.
Formation of Political Organizations:
- Scheduled Castes Federation: Ambedkar founded the Scheduled Castes Federation in 1942 to mobilize Dalits politically and advocate for their rights independently of the Congress.
- Drafting the Constitution: As the chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution, Ambedkar played a crucial role in ensuring provisions for the protection of Dalit rights and the abolition of untouchability.
Post-Independence Period
Constitutional Safeguards:
- Abolition of Untouchability: The Indian Constitution, drafted under Ambedkar's leadership, explicitly abolished untouchability and provided for affirmative action to uplift Dalits.
- Reservations: The Constitution mandated reservations in education, employment, and political representation for Dalits and other marginalized communities.
Continued Struggles:
- Social and Economic Marginalization: Despite constitutional safeguards, Dalits continued to face social and economic marginalization and discrimination.
- Dalit Movements: Various Dalit movements, such as the Dalit Panthers and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), emerged to fight for Dalit rights and representation. These movements often criticized mainstream political parties, including the Congress, for not doing enough to address Dalit issues.
Conclusion
The relationship between the nationalist movement and the Dalits was characterized by both cooperation and tension. While the Congress, under Gandhi's influence, made some efforts to include Dalits and address their grievances, these efforts were often seen as insufficient and paternalistic. Leaders like Dr. B.R. Ambedkar played a crucial role in advocating for Dalit rights and ensuring their inclusion in the post-independence political framework. The legacy of this complex relationship continues to shape the socio-political landscape of India, with ongoing struggles for Dalit empowerment and equality.
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Question. 9 Analyse the Gandhian strategy to fight against the colonial state in India.
Ans. Mahatma Gandhi's strategy to fight against the colonial state in India was characterized by its unique blend of non-violence, mass mobilization, and moral authority. His approach not only sought to challenge British rule but also aimed to transform Indian society and politics. Here is a detailed analysis of the Gandhian strategy:
1. Non-Violence (Ahimsa)
Philosophical Basis:
- Moral High Ground: Gandhi’s commitment to non-violence was rooted in his belief in the moral superiority of non-violent resistance. He believed that non-violence could win the hearts and minds of the oppressors and mobilize widespread support without resorting to bloodshed.
- Practical Implications: Non-violence helped in maintaining discipline within the movement, preventing it from descending into chaos and violence, which could have been easily crushed by the colonial state.
Methods:
- Peaceful Protests and Marches: Gandhi organized peaceful marches, such as the Salt March (Dandi March) in 1930, which became powerful symbols of resistance.
- Civil Disobedience: By refusing to obey unjust laws, such as the salt laws, Gandhi demonstrated the power of non-violent defiance.
2. Mass Mobilization
Inclusive Participation:
- Broad-Based Appeal: Gandhi sought to include people from all sections of society, including peasants, workers, women, and the urban middle class. His inclusive approach helped to transform the Indian National Congress from an elite organization into a mass movement.
- Decentralization: Gandhi promoted decentralized activities that allowed local leaders and communities to participate actively, making the movement resilient and widespread.
Symbolism and Simplicity:
- Charkha (Spinning Wheel): The charkha became a symbol of self-reliance and resistance to British economic policies. By promoting the spinning of khadi (homespun cloth), Gandhi aimed to revive village industries and reduce dependence on British goods.
- Simple Living: Gandhi’s own lifestyle, marked by simplicity and austerity, resonated with the masses and lent credibility to his leadership.
3. Civil Disobedience and Non-Cooperation
Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922):
- Boycott: Gandhi called for the boycott of British goods, schools, courts, and legislative councils. The idea was to withdraw Indian support from the colonial state, thereby weakening it.
- Mass Resignations: Many Indian officials resigned from their government positions, and students left British-run schools and colleges.
Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-1934):
- Salt March: The Salt March was a direct action campaign against the salt tax, symbolizing the larger fight against British economic exploitation. It inspired widespread acts of civil disobedience across the country.
- Breaking Colonial Laws: Participants in the Civil Disobedience Movement deliberately broke colonial laws, leading to mass arrests and showcasing the resolve of the Indian people.
4. Constructive Program
Economic and Social Reform:
- Self-Reliance: Gandhi promoted self-sufficiency and self-reliance through the revival of cottage industries and the emphasis on khadi.
- Eradication of Social Evils: Gandhi worked towards the abolition of untouchability, upliftment of women, and promotion of basic education. He believed that true independence required the social and moral upliftment of the people.
Community Building:
- Ashrams and Villages: Gandhi established ashrams where principles of communal living, self-discipline, and self-sufficiency were practiced. He saw villages as the fundamental units of Indian society and focused on rural development.
5. Negotiation and Dialogue
Constructive Engagement:
- Round Table Conferences: Gandhi participated in negotiations with the British government, such as the Round Table Conferences in London, to push for constitutional reforms and greater autonomy.
- Compromises: Gandhi was willing to make tactical compromises, such as the Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931), to gain strategic advantages and maintain the momentum of the movement.
6. Moral Authority and Leadership
Personal Example:
- Living the Principles: Gandhi’s personal adherence to his principles of non-violence, simplicity, and truthfulness provided a moral example for his followers. His leadership was based on personal integrity and moral authority.
- Satyagraha: The concept of Satyagraha, or “truth force,” was central to Gandhi’s strategy. It involved passive resistance and the willingness to suffer without retaliation, emphasizing moral strength over physical force.
7. Focus on Indian Identity
Cultural Revival:
- Promotion of Indian Culture: Gandhi emphasized the importance of Indian languages, arts, and traditions. He sought to revive a sense of pride in Indian identity, countering the cultural dominance of the British.
Conclusion
Gandhi's strategy to fight against the colonial state in India was multi-dimensional, blending non-violent resistance, mass mobilization, civil disobedience, constructive programs, and moral leadership. His approach not only aimed to achieve political independence but also sought to transform Indian society and economy, making it self-reliant and morally grounded. Despite criticisms and challenges, Gandhi's strategies played a pivotal role in uniting diverse sections of Indian society and steering the country towards independence.
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