RANI DURGAVATI GAURAV YATRA
1. Context
The Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led BJP government in Madhya Pradesh launched the six-day Rani Durgavati Gaurav Yatra on (June 22 2023). Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the rally in Balaghat, while the CM also marked June 24, 2023. when the queen is believed to have died while fighting the Mughals in the mid-16th century as a day of sacrifice
Starting from Balaghat, Chhindwara, Singrampur (Damoh district), Dhauhani, and Kalinjar Fort in Uttar Pradesh – the natal home of the queen – the five yatras will reach Shahdol in MP on June 27, 2023
2. About Rani Durgavati
- She fought Mughal emperor Akbar and his commander Asaf Khan and gave the ultimate sacrifice
- Rani Durgavati is said to have been born in 1524, in Mahoba’s Chandela dynasty
- The region comes under present-day Uttar Pradesh, near the southern border with MP
- Her father was Raja Salbahan of Ratha and Mahoba, and the Chandelas were known for building the famous Khajuraho temples in the 11th century
- She was later married to Dalpat Shah, the son of the Gond King Sangram Shah of the kingdom of Garha-Katanga
- This kingdom included the Narmada Valley and parts of northern MP
- It was first welded together by Sangram Shah and is noted as one of the most powerful kingdoms of the Gond tribe
- Durgavati, however, was widowed in 1550, a few years after her marriage. Her young son Bir Narayan presided over the throne in name and she then “ruled the country with great vigour and courage.”
- It was noted at the time that she was so intent on hunting tigers that “whenever she heard that a tiger had appeared she did not drink water until she shot it.”
3. Mughals attack on Garha- Katanga
- The period of the mid-16th century as one of early Mughal expansion in India (between 1556-76) under Akbar
- During her reign, Durgavati fought with Baz Bahadur, the sultan of the neighbouring Malwa who was eventually defeated by Akbar, But the frequent battles between the two adjoining states continued even after the takeover
- The queen and her generals managed the affairs of the kingdom for 16 years
- There was evidence of trade with other kingdoms in the form of their currencies being found there and of public works being carried out, such as the construction of a large public reservoir near Jabalpur that is now called Ranital
- Abul Fazl, the court historian of Akbar who chronicled these years in Akbarnama, described Durgavati as a combination of “beauty, grace and manlike courage and bravery”
- He adds that the prosperity of the kingdom was such that people paid their taxes in gold coins and elephants
- The Mughal governor of Allahabad, Asaf Khan, also took an interest in attacking Garha-Katanga, attracted by tales of the queen
- Khan then went to the region with 10,000 cavalry. Some semi-independent rules here also seized on the opportunity as one to overthrow the queen. She was, therefore, left with a small force
- The queen entered the battlefield and situated her troops in a place called Narhi, which was located in a thick forest, reached after crossing rivers, and was naturally difficult to breach
- She suggested attacking the enemy forces upfront as they could not remain hidden for long
- They allowed some Mughal forces to come through the narrow ravines peculiar to the region, before surrounding them. The first battle was therefore won by the Gond queen
- However, soon the Mughals fortified the area and overwhelmed the Gonds. While fighting them in battle, she was struck by two arrows and it is believed she stabbed herself with her dagger to not surrender to the Mughal forces
Source: indianexpress
ORGANIC INTELLECTUALS
1. Introduction
- Antonio Gramsci, an Italian Marxist, introduced the concept of the 'organic intellectual' in his Prison Notebooks. Written during his imprisonment by the Italian fascist regime in 1926.
- The concept is central to Gramsci's "philosophy of praxis" and understanding revolutionary practice.
- Gramsci believed that challenging the foundations of capitalist society required a sociological understanding of the complex relationships between class power, ideology, organic intellectuals, hegemony, and the state.
- Intellectuals are crucial in both the functioning of capitalist society and revolution due to their capacity to influence people.
- Gramsci challenged the notion that intellectuals were limited to scholars who associated only with the elite.
- He emphasized the role of intellectuals in educating and raising awareness among the masses.
2. Organic Intellectuals
- Organic intellectuals are specific intellectuals who can help build awareness among the masses.
- They emerge from social classes that typically do not produce intellectuals but remain associated with those classes.
- Unlike traditional intellectuals, organic intellectuals have a professional standing but maintain connections to their class of origin.
- The concept of organic intellectuals highlights the importance of grassroots education and mobilization for revolutionary change.
- It challenges the idea that intellectual influence is exclusive to the privileged elite.
- Gramsci's concept emphasizes the need for a diverse range of intellectuals to contribute to transformative social movements.
3. Hegemony and the Role of Intellectuals in Modern States - Gramsci's Observation
Hegemony and Consensual support
- Gramsci observed that in modern states, coercion and force were not the sole means of ruling and controlling the public.
- Instead, the state cultivated consensual support throughout civil society, a concept known as hegemony.
- Hegemony involved building consensus and favor for the ruling class, moving beyond coercive methods.
The Role of Hegemony
- Hegemony represented the consensual domination of the masses by a social class that expanded its influence across civil society.
- Rather than relying on coercion, the ruling class aimed to secure spontaneous consent from the masses.
- Coercive measures, such as the army or police, were used only during a crisis of command when consent failed.
State and Civil Society
- Gramsci argued that the state and civil society were no longer separate entities.
- The state encompassed both political and civil society, functioning as an ethical educator shaping citizens' way of life.
- The support of educational, religious, and media institutions, as well as influential groups, became crucial for maintaining power.
The Role of Intellectuals
- Intellectuals played a significant role in the state's pursuit of hegemony according to Gramsci.
- Their capacity to influence civil society and gain the consent of the masses made them valuable tools for maintaining hegemonic power.
- Intellectuals were utilized by the state to win over potentially hostile or volatile groups and appease dominant classes.
- Gramsci's analysis highlights the importance of ideological and cultural influence in maintaining state power.
- Intellectuals act as mediators between the ruling class and civil society, shaping and disseminating ideologies.
- The concept of hegemony challenges simplistic views of state control and emphasizes the complex dynamics of power and consent in modern societies.
4. Gramsci's Perspective on Intellectuals: Traditional vs. Organic
Gramsci expanded the conventional definition of intellectuals to include all those who communicated and educated non-specialists. This extended beyond artists, scholars, and academics to encompass functionaries like bureaucrats, administrators, managers, and politicians.
Traditional Intellectuals
- Traditional Intellectuals, such as clergymen or philosophers, represented a previous historic stage.
- They preserve and organized culture in society but were not directly linked to the economic structure or economic or associated with a specific class or political discourse.
- Despite their social prestige, they did not have a direct connection to a particular class.
Organic intellectuals
- Organic intellectuals had a direct connection to the economic structure of their society and their class.
- They maintained a close association with their class and worked to raise awareness of their class's social and political roles.
- Their aim was to foster unity by spreading awareness among the masses.
- Organic intellectuals' interests were aligned with the dominant classes they identified with, in contrast to traditional intellectuals.
5. Gramsci on Economic Structure and Ideology.
- Gramsci recognized the significance of the economic structure (base) and cultural/ideological aspects (superstructure) in bringing about the revolution.
- He criticized vulgar materialism for reducing everything to economic determinism, as it overlooked the dialectical nature of Marxism.
- Ideology, as a worldview, played a crucial role in unifying human actions and raising awareness of practical circumstances.
- Gramsci emphasized the engagement of intellectuals, especially organic intellectuals, with the common sense thinking and ideologies of the masses.
- Intellectuals needed to challenge contradictory ideologies, educate the public about class struggles, and develop and disseminate the ideology of their class.
- Assimilating traditional intellectuals was important to gain spontaneous consent to the social order as representatives of society's culture.
6. Role of Intellectuals
- While organic intellectuals were utilized by the state and ruling classes to maintain power, they also played a crucial role in the revolutionary project.
- Gaining consent from the masses across civil society was essential for a successful revolution, surpassing mere seizing of power or jailing corrupt rulers.
- Gramsci emphasized that for a true revolution, a change in the economic structure must be accompanied by a political transformation.
- Intellectuals, by understanding the ideologies of the working class, could educate them about their social class and empower them to become politically conscious agents driving the revolution.
- The goal was to transcend the role of dominated workers and empower them to actively participate in transforming society.
- Intellectuals played a crucial role in educating and empowering the working class to become politically conscious agents of change.
- Gramsci's insights highlight the multifaceted nature of revolution, emphasizing the importance of both economic and ideological transformations.
- Intellectuals, particularly organic intellectuals, are instrumental in mobilizing and empowering the masses to drive social and political change.
| For Mains: 1. Discuss Antonio Gramsci's concept of the organic intellectual and its significance in understanding revolutionary practice, hegemony, and the role of intellectuals in capitalist society. (250 Words) |
Source: The Hindu
ASSAM DELIMITATION
1. Context
Recently, the Election Commission (EC) released a draft delimitation document for Assam, proposing a change in the boundaries of several Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies of the state.
The proposal has been met with controversy, with some groups alleging that it is partisan and favours the ruling BJP.
The proposed boundaries also threaten the electoral futures of some sitting legislators and parliamentarians, who now may lose their constituencies.
2. About Delimitation
- Delimitation is the act of redrawing the boundaries of Lok Sabha and Assembly seats to represent population changes.
- It aims to provide equal representation for equal population segments, to ensure that no political party has an advantage.
- Delimitation is a constitutional exercise carried out based on preceding Census figures (the year 2001 in this case).
3. Delimitation in Assam
- While the slated delimitation process was done in the rest of the country in 2008, it was deferred in Assam (as well as some other Northeastern States) citing security concerns of the time.
- A 2020 notification from the Law Ministry officially revived the exercise in Assam.
- Following that in December 2022 the EC announced that it would initiate the exercise.
4. Highlights of the proposal
- While the number of seats (126 Assembly and 14 Lok Sabha) are being retained, the EC has proposed not just changes in geographical boundaries, but also an increase in the number of reserved constituencies for Scheduled Tribes (ST) and Scheduled Castes (SC).
- Reserved seats increased SC assembly seats have increased from 8 to 9 and ST assembly seats have increased from 16 to 19.
- Districts with Autonomous councils (administered under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution) get more seats one assembly seat increased in West Karbi Anglong District and Three Assembly seats increased in the Bodo Territorial Region.
- Change in nomenclature Kaliabor Lok Sabha constituency is now named "Kaziranga"
5. Carrying out of delimitation Process
- While delimitation is based on the 2001 census data, the EC sought the opinions and suggestions of 11 political parties and 71 organizations during their visit to Assam in March.
- The representations made by these stakeholders focused on using the 2001 census as the basis, safeguarding the rights of indigenous people, and considering the changing demographic patterns in the state.
- The draft proposal remains open to suggestions and objections until July 11, following which a public hearing will be conducted in Assam.
6. Controversy over the Draft Proposal
- Various political parties and groups have raised allegations of partisan bias against the draft proposal.
- Particularly, representatives of the Bengali-origin Muslim community contend that the proposal politically marginalizes them while favouring the ruling BJPs agenda.
- Concerns are voiced about the mixed inclusion of minority areas with majority Hindu populations, the reduction of constituencies with significant Muslim populations and the increase in Hindu-dominated seats.
- Opposition parties, including Congress and AIUDF, criticize the draft as unscientific, unconstitutional and designed to benefit the ruling party.
7. Impact on Legislators and Parliamentarians
- The proposed changes in reservation status, alteration of boundaries and renaming of constituencies may significantly affect incumbent legislators and parliamentarians.
- For example, the transformation of the Kaliabor constituency into Kaziranga and the realignment of Muslim-majority areas in the Kaziranga constituency to Nagaon may impact the electoral prospects of MP Gaurav Gogoi.
- Similarly, the elimination of the Muslim-majority Dhing constituency and the renaming and redrawing of boundaries in the Barak Valley region raise concerns among affected legislators.
- The dissolution of the Amguri constituency, a stronghold of the AGP has also sparked protests.
8. The Way Forward
- The draft delimitation proposal for Assam has become a contentious issue, with opposing viewpoints and allegations of partisan bias.
- While the objective of ensuring fair representation and addressing demographic changes is crucial, it is imperative to address the concerns raised by marginalized communities and opposition parties.
- The ongoing public consultation and subsequent decisions will shape the outcome, impacting the political landscape of Assam.
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For Prelims: Assam, delimitation, Barak Valley, Election Commission, Lok Sabha, Assembly constituencies, Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, Sixth Schedule, Bodo Territorial Region,
For Mains:
1. What is the concept of delimitation? Explain its purpose and how is it carried out in India. Discuss the significance of delimitation in ensuring fair representation in the electoral process. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions 1. With reference to the Delimitation Commission, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2012)
1. The orders of the Delimitation Commission cannot be challenged in a Court of Law.
2. When the orders of the Delimitation Commission are laid before the Lok Sabha or State Legislative Assembly, they cannot effect any modifications in the orders.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C
2. Barak Valley in Assam is famous for which among the following? (MSTET 2019)
A. Bamboo Industry
B. Petroleum Production
C. Cottage Industries
D. Tea Cultivation
Answer: D
3. Which one of the following is an important crop of the Barak Valley? (Karnataka Civil Police Constable 2019)
A. Sugarcane B. Jute C. Tea D. Cotton
Answer: B
4. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2021)
1. In India, there is no law restricting the candidates from contesting in one Lok Sabha election from three constituencies.
2. In 1991 Lok Sabha Election, Shri Devi Lal contested from three Lok Sabha constituencies. 3. As per the- existing rules, if a candidate contests in one Lok Sabha election from many constituencies, his/her party should bear the cost of bye-elections to the constituencies vacated by him/her in the event of him/her winning in all the constituencies.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. 1 and 3 D. 2 and 3
Answer: B
5. The provisions in Fifth Schedule and Sixth Schedule in the Constitution of India are made in order to (UPSC 2015)
A. protect the interests of the Scheduled Tribes
B. determine the boundaries between States
C. determine the powers, authority and responsibilities of Panchayats
D. protect the interests of all the border States
Answer: A
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Source: The Indian Express
MULTILATERAL DEVELOPMENT BANK (MDB)
1. Context
In their joint statement, President Joe Biden and PM Modi underscored the need to strengthen and reform the multilateral system to reflect contemporary realities. Therefore, it was logical that under India’s G20 presidency, the Expert Group on Strengthening MDBs comprised finance ministers and central bank governors
Depending on the context, the term evokes mixed responses. The current debate on the reforms of multilateral development banks (MDBs) is a subset of the wider debate on the value, content and scope of multilateralism
2. What is a Multilateral development bank?
A multilateral development bank (MDB) is an international financial institution chartered by two or more countries for the purpose of encouraging economic development in poorer nations.
Multilateral development banks consist of member nations from developed and developing countries
MDBs provide loans and grants to member nations to fund projects that support social and economic development, such as the building of new roads or providing clean water to communities
3. History of International financial institutions
- At the end of WWII, delegates from 44 countries met in Bretton Woods to agree upon a series of new rules for international cooperation and reconstruction. This led to the creation of the IMF and World Bank Group (WBG)
- The latter was responsible for providing financial assistance for the post-war reconstruction and economic development of the less developed countries
- The role evolved over the years and as of date, the WBG comprises the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) which lends to low-and middle-income (LICs and MICs) countries, the International Development Association (IDA) that lends to LICs, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) that lends to the private sector, the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) that encourages private companies to invest in foreign countries and the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) for dispute settlement
- While the WBG is the oldest and the largest MDB, over the years, several other MDBs and regional development banks (RDBs) have emerged. Today, there are about 15-16 prominent MDBs and RDBs
- Over the years, notwithstanding far-reaching geopolitical changes, economic crises and uncertainties, MDBs have remained relevant as credible institutions to support the development of both MICs and LICs
- Yet, it is widely believed that these institutions are no longer suited in terms of the resources, cultural ethos and methods to address the emerging challenges
4. Types of Multilateral development banks
- There are two main forms of multilateral development banks. The first, which includes the largest and best-known institutions, makes loans and grants
- These banks often distinguish between poorer, borrowing members and wealthier, non-borrowing members
- Examples include the World Bank, founded in 1945, and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), founded in 1959
- The second type of multilateral development bank is formed by governments of low-income countries that can then borrow collectively via the MDB in order to secure more favorable rates
- The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), founded in 1969, is an example of this type
5. Way forward
Making MDBs more relevant for addressing 21st-century challenges would contribute towards enhancing human welfare. Deeper integration with multiple stakeholders is crucial. If MDBs do not respond to these new challenges, they will become increasingly irrelevant and be substituted by other forms of cooperation. We need to act with agility and speed
Source: Indianexpress, investopedia
GREEDFLATION
1. Context
There is a growing consensus across the world that corporate greed is the new villain in town, spiking inflation even as workers get doubly penalized by low wage increases and higher interest rates.
2. Inflation, Disinflation, and Deflation: Key Concepts
Inflation
- Inflation refers to the rate at which the general price level of the economy rises over time.
- For example, an inflation rate of 5% in June implies that prices increased by 5% compared to June of the previous year.
Disinflation
- Disinflation occurs when the inflation rate decelerates or slows down over a period of time.
- It refers to a situation where prices are still rising, but at a slower rate each passing month.
- For instance, if the inflation rate was 10% in April, 7% in May, and 5% in June, it signifies disinflation.
Deflation
- Deflation is the opposite of inflation and refers to a decrease in the general price level of the economy.
- It occurs when prices decline, leading to a negative inflation rate.
- For example, if the general price level in June is 5% lower than that of June in the previous year, it indicates deflation.
Reflation
- Reflation is a policy response to deflationary conditions.
- Policymakers aim to stimulate economic activity by increasing government spending and/or reducing interest rates.
- The goal is to counter deflation and boost economic growth.
3. Causes of Inflation: Cost-Push and Demand-Pull
Cost-Push Inflation:
- Cost-push inflation occurs when prices rise due to an increase in input costs.
- For example, if there is a sudden increase in crude oil prices, it leads to higher energy costs, pushing up the general price level.
- Rising input costs can be caused by factors such as supply disruptions or increased production costs.
Demand-Pull Inflation:
- Demand-pull inflation happens when prices are pulled up due to excess demand for goods and services.
- If there is a sudden surge in demand that surpasses the available supply, prices can rise.
- For instance, if the central bank lowers interest rates, making housing more affordable and increasing demand for new houses, it can pull up home prices.
4. Impact of Wages, Profits, and Corporate Greed on Inflation
Wages and Demand
- When prices rise, workers often demand higher wages, which increases overall demand.
- However, this increase in wages without a corresponding increase in supply fuels inflation.
- As workers and consumers have more money, prices of goods and services tend to rise, leading to further inflation.
Interest Rates and Wage-Price Spiral
- Central banks may raise interest rates to curb inflation by slowing down economic activity and demand.
- This can result in job losses and mitigate the wage-price spiral, preventing further inflation.
- However, this approach can be seen as unfair and inequitable since it disproportionately affects workers.
Profits and Price Increases
- Price increases can also be driven by companies seeking higher profits, especially during crises or natural disasters.
- In such cases, businesses may raise prices significantly, leading to inflation.
- If the price mark up exceeds the increase in input costs or if companies maintain high prices despite falling input costs, supernormal profits can be generated.
Corporate Greed and Monetary Policy
- If corporate greed is the primary driver of inflation, traditional monetary policy measures may be ineffective and unjust.
- In this scenario, solely focusing on raising interest rates to control inflation may not address the root cause.
- Monetary policies should consider addressing issues related to excessive profit margins and market pricing practices.
5. Greedflation
- Greedflation refers to the phenomenon where corporate greed becomes a significant factor in fueling inflation. Instead of the traditional wage-price spiral, it is the profit-price spiral that is at play.
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Companies take advantage of the inflation experienced by people by significantly raising their prices beyond covering their increased costs.
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This excessive price increase allows them to maximize their profit margins. However, this action further contributes to inflationary pressures in the economy.
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In developed countries, such as Europe and the US, there is a growing consensus that greedflation is the primary culprit behind rising inflation.
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It highlights the role of companies exploiting inflationary conditions to drive up prices and maximize profits.
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Greedflation disrupts the traditional understanding of the wage-price spiral and emphasizes the influence of corporate behavior on inflation dynamics.
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Excessive price hikes by companies contribute to an inflationary cycle, exacerbating the overall inflation levels.
6. Surging Corporate Profits in Post-Pandemic India
Profits Post-Pandemic
- Net profits of 4,293 listed companies in India reached Rs. 2.9 trillion in the March 2023 quarter.
- This figure is over 3.5 times higher than the average quarterly profit earned by listed companies before the 2020 pandemic.
- The average net profit of listed companies from December 2017 to December 2019 was Rs. 0.83 trillion.
- Indian corporate sector has witnessed a significant surge in profits in the post-pandemic period.
- Recent profits are nearly three times higher than previous earnings, indicating exceptional profitability.
- Mahesh Vyas, CEO of CMIE, acknowledged that the pandemic has had a positive impact on corporate profits.
- The sustained high profits cannot be attributed to increased formalization anymore.
- Previously, gains from the formalization of the economy, such as efficient tax regimes under GST, may have contributed to higher profits.
- However, those gains are now considered a thing of the past, as per Mahesh Vyas.
Implications
- The surge in corporate profits raises questions about the factors driving this exceptional growth.
- It highlights the need to assess the underlying causes, including potential economic and regulatory factors.
- Further analysis is required to understand the sustainability and distribution of these profits within the Indian corporate sector.
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For Prelims: Inflation, Disinflation, Deflation, Reflation, Greedflation, Monetary Policy, Fiscal Policy, Cost-push Inflation, Demand-Pull Inflation, and Wage Price Spiral.
For Mains: 1. Analyze the concept of "greedflation" in the context of the Indian corporate sector, considering the surge in corporate profits post-pandemic. Discuss the idea that corporate greed may be fueling inflation in the country.
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Previous year Questions1. With reference to inflation in India, which of the following statements is correct? (UPSC 2015)
A. Controlling inflation in India is the responsibility of the Government of India only
B. The Reserve Bank of India has no role in controlling the inflation
C. Decreased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
D. Increased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
Answer: C
2. With reference to the Indian economy, demand-pull inflation can be caused/increased by which of the following? (UPSC 2021)
1. Expansionary policies
2. Fiscal stimulus.
3. Inflation-indexing wages
4. Higher purchasing power
5. Rising interest rates
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A. 1, 2, and 4 only
B. 3, 4, and 5 only
C. 1, 2, 3, and 5 only
D. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5
Answer: A
3. A rapid increase in the rate of inflation is sometimes attributed to the "base effect". What is the "base effect"?(UPSC 2011)
A. It is the impact of drastic deficiency in supply due to the failure of crops
B. It is the impact of the surge in demand due to rapid economic growth
C. It is the impact of the price levels of the previous year on the calculation of the inflation rate.
D. None of the statements (a), (b) and (c) given above is correct in this context
Answer: C
4. India has experienced persistent and high food inflation in the recent past. What could be the reasons? (UPSC 2011)
1. Due to a gradual switchover to the cultivation of commercial crops, the area under the cultivation of food grains has steadily decreased in the last five years by about 30.
2. As a consequence of increasing incomes, the consumption patterns of the people have undergone a significant change.
3. The food supply chain has structural constraints.
Which of the statements given above is correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
5. Which one of the following statements is an appropriate description of deflation? (UPSC 2010)
A. It is a sudden fall in the value of a currency against other currencies.
B. It is a persistent recession in both the financial and real sectors of the economy.
C. It is a persistent fall in the general price level of goods and services.
D. It is a fall in the rate of inflation over a period of time.
Answer: C
6. With reference to the Indian economy, consider the following statements : (UPSC 2022)
1. If the inflation is too high, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is likely to buy government securities.
2. If the rupee is rapidly depreciating, RBI is likely to sell dollars in the market.
3. If interest rates in the USA or European Union were to fall, that is likely to induce RBI to buy dollars.
Which of the statements given above is correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
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Source: The Indian Express
BENGAL PARTITION
1. Context
The marking of West Bengal's Foundation Day by Governor C V Ananda Bose at the Raj Bhavan in Kolkata on June 20 has ignited a political controversy in the state.
The Ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) had earlier opposed the plan, arguing that June 20 Signifies a painful chapter in the State's history, as it marks the division of Bengal into West Bengal into East Pakistan (later Bangladesh). Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her concerns in a letter to the Governor, emphasizing the need to avoid rekindling bitter memories.
2. Partition of Bengal in 1947
- Muslim League's demand for a separate nation-state for Indian Muslims led to the partition.
- Communal violence in Calcutta in August 1946 intensified the religious division.
- Bengal was included in the partition plan due to its significant non-Muslim minorities.
- The Radcliffe Line, drawn by the boundary commission, demarcated separate Hindu and Muslim-majority districts.
3. Finalization of East Pakistan's Contours
- The Muslim-majority districts of East Bengal constituted East Pakistan.
- Similarly, Punjab was divided into Muslims in the West and Hindus and Sikhs in the East.
- The Radcliffe Line delineated the boundaries of East Pakistan.
4. The distinction between Curzon's Partition and the 1947 Partition
- Curzon's 1905 partition aimed to break the unity of Bengal-speaking people and create a province with a Muslim majority.
- The 1911 partition undid Curzon's partition, restoring linguistic unity.
- The two partitions were unrelated, except that the new Bengal after 1911 had a Muslim majority.
5. The aftermath of the 1947 Partition of Bengal
- Bengal experienced communal violence in 1946, but it was relatively less severe compared to Punjab due to the presence of Mahatma Gandhi.
- Continous migrations and displacement occurred over an extended period, leading to a large refugee population.
- Rehabilitation and settlement efforts were required to address the impact on lives, livelihoods and the economy.
6. The way forward
- The decision to mark West Bengal's Foundation Day has become a subject of political contention, with the TMC opposing it due to the painful memories associated with the partition of Bengal.
- The historical context of the 1947 partition, along with the resulting migrations and disruptions, highlights the complex ramifications on the region.
- As the controversy unfolds, it underscores the need for sensitivity and understanding of the shared history to foster reconciliation and unity in West Bengal.
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For Prelims: Bengal Partition, Lord Curzon, East Pakistan, West Pakistan, Bangladesh, TMC, Muslim League, Communal violence, The Radcliffe Line,
For Mains:
1. Discuss the circumstances that led to the partition of Bengal in 1947. How did the demand for a separate nation-state for Indian Muslims contribute to this partition? (250 Words).
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Previous Year Questions 1. The Partition of Bengal made by Lord Curzon in 1905 lasted until (UPSC 2014)
A. the First World War when Indian troops were needed by the British and the partition was ended.
B. King George V abrogated Curzon's Act at the Royal Durbar in Delhi in 1911.
C. Gandhiji launched his civil Disobedience Movement.
D. the Partition of India in 1947 when East Bengal became East Pakistan.
Answer: B 2. Which one of the following measures were NOT adopted by Lord Curzon? (UGC NET 2019)
A. The Calcutta Municipal Amendment Act
B. Indian Universities Act
C. Indian Officials Secrets Amendment Act
D. Law for Protecting Ancient Indian Monuments
Answer: C 3. In which year did Lord Curzon announce the Partition of Bengal? (SSC CHSL 2020) (SSC GD 2021) (ICAR Technician 2022) A. 1904 B. 1905 C. 1902 D. 1903 Answer: B 4. To which of the following event Lord Curzon is related? (SSC MTS 2019)
A. Partition of Bengal
B. Setting up of Durand Commission
C. Bhutan War
D. Introduction to system of Budget
Answer: A
5. The most opposed policy of Lord Curzon was the: (DSSSB Junior Secretariat Assistant 2022)
A. Partition of Bengal
B. Army Reforms
C. Judicial Reforms
D. Ancient Monuments Act
Answer: A
6. Which among the following is related to Lord Curzon? (Rajasthan CET Graduate Level 2023)
A. Partition of Bengal in 1905
B. Government of India Act, 1909
C. Universities Act, 1920
D. Indian Council Act, 1892
Answer: A
7. What was the present-day Bangladesh called when it was a part of Pakistan? (UPPCL AE CS 2018)
A. Pakistan (Bengal)
B. East Pakistan
C. Bengal Pakistan
D. Bangla Pakistan
Answer: B
8. When did Bangladesh get independence from Pakistan? (SSC CHSL 2021)
A. 1971 B. 1965 C. 1949 D. 1976
Answer: A
9. India fought against Pakistan in 1971 for the liberation of (APPSC Group 4 2012)
(Karnataka SI 2022)
A. Bangladesh B. POK C. Siachen Sector D. Poonch Sector
Answer: A
10. Which neighbouring country of India was formerly known as East Pakistan? (SSC MTS 2017)
A. Nepal B. Bhutan C. Bangladesh D. Myanmar
Answer: C
11. Till which year was Bangladesh a part of Pakistan? (SSC GD 2021)
A. 1962 B. 1974 C. 1971 D. 1956
Answer: C
12. Bangladesh was a part of Pakistan from ______ to ______. (SSC CPO 2020) SSC CHSL 2021)
A. 1947; 1989 B. 1947; 1962 C. 1947; 1971 D. 1947; 1958
Answer: C
13. Which of the neighboring Country of India did come in existence in 1971? (DSSSB Head Clerk 2022)
A. Nepal B. Sri Lanka C. Bangladesh D. Bhutan
Answer: C
14. Who was heading the Indian Army during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971? (ITBP Head Constable/Combatant Ministerial 2017)
1. A.J.N. Chaudhuri
2. B.P.P. Kumaramangalam
3. C.G.G. Bewoor
4. D. Sam Manekshaw
Answer: 4
15. Comprehension ( ESIC Stenographer 2019)
Below are given some sentences out of which the sentence numbered 4 has been correctly placed. The rest of the sentences A, B, C, D, E, F need to be arranged correctly in order to form a logical order.
A. The war began when Pakistan made preemptive airstrikes on 11 Indian air stations.
B. The war ended when the Eastern Command of the Pakistan military signed the instrument of surrender on December 16, in Dhaka.
C. The Indo-Pakistan war of 1971 was a military confrontation between India and Pakistan that occurred from December 3, 1971, to the fall of Dhaka on December 16 of the same year. 4. It was one of the shortest wars in history, lasting just 13 days.
D. This event marked the formation of East Pakistan as the new nation of Bangladesh.
E. During the short war, Indian and Pakistani militaries clashed both on the Eastern and Western fronts.
F. This led to the commencement of hostilities between India and Pakistan with India entering the war of independence in East Pakistan on the side of the Bengali nationalists.
Which of the following is the SECOND statement?
1. A 2. B 3. C 4. D 5. E
Answer: A
16. The Radcliffe Line demarcates India's borders with which of the following countries? (SSC JE 2021)
A. Bhutan B. Germany C. Pakistan D. China
Answer: C
17. India and Pakistan had signed the ______, under which the two countries agreed to sort out differences and disputes bilaterally. (SSC MTS 2021)
A. Calcutta pact B. Simla Pact C. Lucknow Pact D. Agra Pact
Answer: B
18. Match List I with List II (UGC NET Political Science 2020)
List I Landmarks in Indian foreign policy List II Prime Ministers
(A) Shimla Accord (I) Rajiv Gandhi
(B) Act East Policy (II) Indira Gandhi
(C) India's Peace keeping in Sri Lanka (III) Atal Behari Vajpayee
(D) Lahore Declaration (IV) Narendra Modi
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
1. (A)-(I), (B)-(II), (C)-(III), (D)-(IV)
2. (A)-(II), (B)-(IV), (C)-(I), (D)-(III)
3. (A)-(IV), (B)-(III), (C)-(II), (D)-(I)
4. (A)-(III), (B)-(II), (C)-(IV), (D)-(I)
Answer: 2
19. Which of the following countries was formed in 1971? (RRB JE 4 2019)
A. Sri Lanka B. Nepal C. Bangladesh D. Bhutan
Answer: C
20. In one election, AAP got 70% of the votes and TMC got the remaining votes. If AAP won by 36 votes, how many people voted? ( DSSSB TGT 2021)
A. 120 B. 90 C. 180 D. 100
Answer: B
21. The All India Muslim League was founded in 1906 at: (MPPSC General Studies 2014)(SSC MTS 2021)
A. Lahore B. Bombay C. Lucknow D. Dacca
Answer: D
22. The All-India Muslim League was formed at Dacca. Which of the following statements about it is NOT true? (SSC GD Constable 2021)
A.The League did not support the partition of Bengal.
B. The League was formed in 1906.
C. It desired separate electorates for the Muslims.
D. It was formed by a group of Muslim landlords and nawabs.
Answer: A
23. In which of the following years did the Muslim League pass a resolution demanding a measure of autonomy for the Muslim majority areas? (RRB NTPC CBT 2 2022)
A. 1944 B. 1940 C. 1935 D. 1937
Answer: B
24. The Muslim League accepted the Lucknow Pact but rejected the Nehru Report because: (OPSC OAS 2022)
A. One offered Muslims more representation than the proportion of their population while the other did not.
B. Of the fear of Muslims being punished by the Colonial Government.
C. Of the desire to ally with the Raj.
D. They distrusted what they insisted was the Hindu leadership of the Congress.
Answer: A
25. Consider the following statements about the All India Muslim League and choose the correct option. (CTET 2022)
(A) The League desired separate electorates for Muslims.
(B) The League supported the partition of Bengal.
(C) The formation of the League was the main cause of split in Congress in 1907.
A. Only (A) is true
B. Only (B) is true
C. Only (A) and (B) are true
D. Only (B) and (C) are true
Answer: C
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Source: The Indian Express
