Author name: Prasanna

Detailed, Step-by-Step NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Political Science Chapter 18 Recent Developments in Indian Politics Questions and Answers were solved by Expert Teachers as per NCERT (CBSE) Book guidelines covering each topic in chapter to ensure complete preparation.

Recent Developments in Indian Politics NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Political Science Chapter 18

Recent Developments in Indian Politics Questions and Answers Class 12 Political Science Chapter 18

Question 1.
Unscramble a bunch of disarranged press clipping file of Unni-Munni and arrange the file chronologically. (Imp.)
(a) Mandal Recommendations and Anti-Reservation stir.
(b) Formation of the Janata Dal
(c) The demolition of Rabri Masjid.
(d) Assassination of Smt. Indira Gandhi.
(e) The formation of NDA government
(f) Godhra incident and its fall out.
(g) Formation of the UPA government.
Answer:
(a) Assassination of Smt. Indira Gandhi.
(b) Formation of the Janata Dal.
(c) Mandal Recommendation and Anti-Reservation stir.
(d) The demolition of Babri Masjid.
(e) The formation of NDA government.
(f) Godhra incident and its fall out.
(g) Formation of the UPA government.

Question 2.
Match the following :
(a) Politics of Consensus – (i) Shah Bano Case
(b) Caste based parties – (ii) Rise of OBCs
(c) Personal law and Gender Justice – (iii) Coalition governament.
(d) Growing strength of regional politics – (iv) Agreement on Economic policies.
Answer:
(a) – (iv); (b) – (ii); (c) – (i); (d) – (iii).

Question 3.
State the main issues in Indian Politics in the period after 1989. What different con¬figuration of political parties these differences lead to ?
Answer:
From 1952 to 1967 the Congress Party dominates Indian politics. In 1977 for the first time non Congress government or Janata Party government was established. After 1989 main issues in Indian politics are as follows :

• Multiple Party System.
• End of Dominance of a Single Party.
• Rise of Effective opposition.
• Decline in the influence of the National Political Party.
• Increasing Importance and Role of Regional Political Parties
• Non-Principled Alliance of Political Parties.
• Coalition Politics.
• Growing Politics of Regionalism, Castecism and Criminalization
• Growing Role of Money.
• Hung Parliament.
• Decline of Value Based Politics.

Question 4.
“In the new era of Coalition Politics, political paries are not aligning or re-aligning on the basis of ideology.” What arguments would you put forward to support or oppose this statement ? (Imp.)
Answer:
The organisation of coalition government has become a regular feature of Indian political system. It is a hard fact that in the era of coalition politics, political parties are not aligning or re-aligning on the basis of ideology. Non-principled alliance of political parties before and after the election is an important feature of Indian politics.

To gain power or for some other interests political parties are always ready to have non-principled alliance. In 1989 National Front was formed by Jan-Morcha, Janata Party, Lok Dal and some other parties to defeat the Congress in elections. In these elections National Front emerged as a potent political force and no other party got clear majority.

National Front Government was formed at the centre with outside support of BJP and some other political parties. After the 12th Lok Sabha elections in 1998 BJP led coalition government was formed. But the government could not last for thirteen month, because after the withdrawal of support by A.I.A.D.M.K., the BJP led coalition govern¬ment failed to secure the confidence vote.

In the 13th Lok Sabha election in 1999, National Democratic Alliance consisting of 24 parties secured majority in the Lok Sabha. The policies and ideology of many political parties were opposite to the policies of other parties. National Democratic Alliance formed government under the leadership of Atal Behari Vajpayee. The NDA was a large size alliance and it faced many problems. However, it completed its tenure under the able leadership of Atal Behari Vajpayee.

In April-May 2004, election for 14th Lok Sabha was held. The United Progressive Alliance led coalition government was formed undere the Prime Ministership of Dr. Manmohan Singh. United Progresssive Alliance is supported by the left parties from outside. Ideology of Congress and left parties i.e. CPI and CPI (M) are different and that is why many times left parties have threatened the IJPA government to withdraw the support and ultimately left parties withdrew the support.

Kon-principled alliance have given rise to the politics of opportunism and the politics of expediency. Almost all political parties are always ready to enter into unholy alliance with other parties to achieve their selfish ends. It was happened in 2009, 2014 and even 2019 election also.

Question 5.
Trace the emergence of BJP as a significant force in Post-Emergency politics.
Or
Trace the emergence of B.J.P of a significance force in Indian Politics since 1980’s. (C.B.S.E. Sample Paper 2018)
Answer:
Bhartiya Janata Party is a major National Political Party in India. The Five fold concept of ‘Suchita’ (Probity in Public Life), ‘Suraksha’ (Secu-rity) ‘Swadeshi’ (Economic Nationalism), ‘Samajik Samarasata’ (Social Harmony) and Hindutva (Cul-tural Nationalism) constitute the core content and ideological pillars of the B.J.P. Hindutva or cultural nationalism shall be rainbow which will bridge our present to our glorious past and have the way for an equally glorious future ; it will guide the transition from Swarajya or Surajya. The B.J.P. believes in one nation, one people, one culture.

Emergence of BJP as a Powerful Force in Post-Emergency Politics. Though Janata Party faced a split in July 1979 on the issue of dual membership,but this controversy didn’t end even after the split. On 19th March, 1980 the Parliamentary Board of Janata Party decided by majority vote that “no legislator or office bearer of the Janata Party shall participate in day-to-day activities of the R.S.S.” But the leaders of the erswhile Jana Sangh Aral Behari Vajpayee, L.K, Advani and Nana Deshmukh expressed their strong reservation on it and recorded their dissent.

On 5th April, 1980, the members of former Jan Sangh group called a two-day national convention at Delhi and decided to form a new party. The conference was presided over by Mrs. Vijaya Raje Seindia. On 6th April, a new political organisation the Bharatiya Janata Party was born under the presidentship of former foreign minister. Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee. On April 24, 1980 the Election Commission granted recognition to the group led by Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee as a ‘national party’ with the distinct name of the Bharatiya Janata Party. The B.J.P. was also provisionally allotted the symbol of lotus.’

Election Successes. The Election Commission recognised the Bharatiya Janata Party as a national party and its election symbol was Kamal flower (lotus). In the Lok Sabha elections of December 1984, the B.J.P. secured only two seats. In the 11 States Assemby Elections of March 1985 the party did not succeed much. In the ninth Lok Sabha elections of November, 1989 the B.J.P. secured 86 seats. The B.J.P. decided to support National Front government from outside.

In the eighth State Assembly elections in Feb. 1990 the B.J.P. secured absolute majority in Himachal and M.P. In the tenth Lok Sabha elections in 1991 B.J.P. secured 119 seats and in U.P. it formed the government. In 1991 the B.J.P. leader L.K. Advani was recognised as leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha. In the elections held for 11th Lok Sabha in 1996 the B.J.P. emerged as the largest party securing 161 seats.

Its leader Atal Behari Vajpayee was appointed Prime Minister and he was asked to prove his majority up to 31st May, 1996 but Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee resigned on May 28, 1996 because he failed to prove his majority in the Lok Sabha. Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee was the recognised opposition leader in the 11th Lok Sabha. In the 12th Lok Sabha elections held in Feb.

March 1998, the B.J.P. secured 182 seats. The B.J.P. and its allies secured 252 seats in the 12th Lok Sabha elec-tions. Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee was elected as the Party leader by the newly elected B.J.P. Lok Sabha members. Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee was appointed the Prime Minister. In the 13th Lok Sabha elections held in Sept. Oct. 1999, the B.J.P. secured 182 seats whereas B.J.P. and its allies secured 297 seats. On 10th Oct.

1999 National Democratic Alliance elected Sh. Atal Behari Vajpayee as its leader and he was appointed the Prime Minister. In 14th Lok Sabha elections held in 2004, B.J.P. secured only 138 seats and lost the power in centre. In the 16th Lok Sabha election held in April-May 2014, the B.J.P. won 282 seats and formed the government under the leadership of Sh. Narendra Modi. In 17th Lok Sabha election, B.J.P won 303 seats, and again formed the government under the Leader-ship of Sh. Narendra Modi.

Question 6.
Inspite of the decline of Congress dominance, the Congress Party continues to influence politics in the country, Do you agree ? Give reasons.
Answer:
Indian National Congress is the oldest, well- organised and very important political party of India. After Independence Congress Party dominated from 1947 to 1967 and from 1971 to 1977 as well as from 1980 to 1989. First split of the Congress took place in 1969 and second split in 1978 and third split in 1995. After the split of 1978 the Congress under the leader-ship of Mrs. Indira Gandhi was called Congress (I). On March 12, 1996 the Election Commission recognised Congress (I) as the real Congress Party and it was allowed to use ‘Hand’ as its party symbol.

No doubt there is a decline of Congress dominance but still Congress has great influence in the Indian Politics. Congress is still the most important national party of India. In the tenth Lok Sabha election in May-June 1991, secured 225 seats. In April-May 1996, eleventh Lok Sabha election was held and Congress Party secured only 141 seats. In February-March, 1998 Congress secured 142 seats in the 12th Lok Sabha election.

In the 13th Lok Sabha election held in Sept. Oct. 1999, Congress Party secured 114 seats. It was the worst ever performance of the Congress in the history of Indian elections. In the 14th Lok Sabha elections held in April-May 2004, the Party won 145 seats and formed the government with its alliance under the leadership of Dr. Manmohan Singh.

In the 16th Lok Sabha election held in April-May 2014, the Congress won 44 seats and in 17th Lok Sabha election, this party won 52 seats. At present Congress has great influence on the politics of the country because it has influenced in all the states of India. Moreover, the social base of Congress is broader than that of all other parties of India.

Question 7.
Many people think that a two-party system is required for successful democracy. Drawing from India’s experience of last twenty years, write an essay on what advantages the present party system in India has.
Answer:
Party system is essential for a democratic system of government. Many people think that a two party system is required for successful democracy. For exampple in England and U.S.A. democracy is very successful due to two party system. The main advantage of the two-party system is that in it the formation of ministry is very easy. In a two party system the government is stable and responsible.

In India multi-party system exists. Upto 1967 In-dian politics was dominated by Congress Party. But after 1967 gradually coalition politics developed. After 1989 Coalition Government is the main feature of Indian party system. Election Commission recognised Seven National Parties and 59 State or regional par¬ties. Present party system is working very successful in India. The present party system in India has following advantages :

1. Representation to all shades of opinion. An important advantage of present party system is that in the legislature all shades of opinion get represen-tation. In India there exists various political parties w hich represent different section of people or different shades of opinion.

2. More Choice to the Voters. In India due to multiple party system voters enjoy a greater degree of independence and choices because so many political parties contest the election.

3. Cultural Pluralism, The present party system is the best because in India there exist several distinct cultural-ethnic religious—linguistic caste groups. Two party system cannot satisfy the different cultural groups. The tridity inhabiting North-Eastern regions, for instance do not identify themselves with the National Parties. Instead they have real sympathy for the regional parties.

4. Satisfy Regional Feelings and Aspirations. Present party system satisfies regional feelings and aspirations of the people. In fact, regional parties contribute to the strengthening of the federalism while underscoring the need for fulfilling the regional aspirations.

Question 8.
Read the passage and answer the questions below :
‘Party politics in India has confronted numerous challenges. Not only has the Congress system destroyed itself, but the fragmentation of the Congress coalition has triggered a new emphasis on self-representation which raises question about the party system and its capacity to accommodate diverse interests An important test facing the policy is to evolve a party system of political parties that can effectively articulate and aggregate a variety of interests Jaya Hasan.

(a) Write a short note on what the author calls challenges of the party system in the light of what you have read in this chapter.
(b) Given an example from this chapter of the lack of accomodation and aggregation mentioned in this passage,
(c) Why is it necessary for parties to accommodate and aggregate variety of interests?
Answer:
(a) The Party system in India has confronted numerous challenges. Not only has the Congress

Detailed, Step-by-Step NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Political Science Chapter 17 Regional Aspirations Questions and Answers were solved by Expert Teachers as per NCERT (CBSE) Book guidelines covering each topic in chapter to ensure complete preparation.

Regional Aspirations NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Political Science Chapter 17

Regional Aspirations Questions and Answers Class 12 Political Science Chapter 17

Question 1.
Match the following : (Imp.)
A – B
Nature of Regional aspirations States
(a) Socio-religious identity – (i) Nagaland/Mizoram, leading to statehood.
(b) Linguistic identity and Chhattisgarh. – (ii) Jharkhand/tensions with centre.
(c) Regional imbalance – (iii) Punjab, leading to demand for statehood.
(d) Secessionist demands – (iv) Tamil Nadu,on account of tribal identity.
Answer:
(a) – (iii), (b) – (iv), (c) – (ii), (d) – (i).

Question 2.
Regional aspirations of the people of North-East get expressed in different ways. These include movements against outsiders, movement for greater autonomy and movement for separate national existence. On the map of the North-East, using different shades for these three, show the states where these expressions are prominently found.
Answer:

• Assam — Movement against outsider.
• Meghalaya — Movement for greater autonomy.
• Mizoram — Movement for Separate State.

.

Question 3.
What were the main provisions of the Punjab Accord ? In what way can they be the basis for further tensions between the Punjab and its neighbouring states ? (Imp.)
Answer:
Akali Dal is a regional party and holds a prominent place in Punjab politics. It is the only organisation representing the Sikhs. Punjab was reorganised on the basis of language on 1st November, 1966 and so the aim of Akali Dal to have Punjabi Suba was achieved. But Akali Dal was not happy as some Punjabi speaking areas were included in Haryana and Chandigarh was declared a Union territory. Sant Fateh Singh again started agitation to include Chandigarh and Punjabi speaking areas in Punjab. During 1970 a section of Akalis began to demand political autonomy for the region. In June 1984,

Mrs. Indira Gandhi carried out ‘Operation Blue Star’ code name for army action in the Golden Temple. Mrs. Indira Gandhi was assassinated on 31 October 1984 outside her residence by her sikh bodyguards. In Delhi and in many other parts of northern India violence took place against the sikh community. More than two thousand sikhs were killed in Delhi only.

After the death of Mrs. Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi became the Prime Minister of India. In July 1985 Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi reached an agreement with Sant Harchand Singh Longowal, then the president of Akali Dal. This agreement is known as the Rajiv Gandhi-Longowal Accord or the Punjab Accord. The aim of the Punjab Accord to bring normalcy in Punjab. Main provisions of Punjab Accord were as follow :

• Chandigarh would be transferred to Punjab.
• To resolve border dispute between Punjab and Haryana, a commission would be established.
• A tribunal would be set up to decide the sharing of Ravi-Beas river water among Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.
• Armed Forces special powers action Punjab would be withdrawn.
• Those who are affected by militancy in Punjab would be given better treatment.

Question 4.
Why did the Anandpur Sahib Resolution become controversial ?
Answer:
During the 1970s a section of Akalis began to demand political autonomy for Punjab. In 1973 Akalis passed a resolution at their conference at Anandpur Sahib, in which demand for political autonomy was made. Anandpur Sahib resolution, as such constitutes a statement of the main principles, policies and programme of the Akali Dal. Anandpur Sahib resolution became controversial because resolution was passed in Gurmukhi Script.

Resolution was not very clear because some words can be interpreted in more than one ways. This confusion was made worst by different interpretations given by the leaders of various political shades and at times by the leaders of the Akali Dal itself. For moderates this resolution means merely more autonomy for Punjab whereas for some leaders it was a way of securing sovereignty for Punjab. Anandpur Sahib resolution spoke of the aspiration of the Sikh Qaum and declared its goal as attaining the bolbala i.e. dominance of the Sikh. However, this resolution has a very limited appeal among the Sikh masses.

Question 5.
Explain the internal divisions of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and describe how these lead to Multiple regional aspirations in that state.
Or
What is the Social and Political Composition of Jammu and Kashmir? Describe the roots of ‘Kashmir issue’ which compelled the Indian Government to maintain autonomy in this state. (Imp.) (C.B.S.E. 2016)
Answer:
Kashmir issue is a major issue of tension between India and Pakistan. The accession of Jammu and Kashmir to India was brought into being on 26th Oct. 1949, Article 370 was included in the Indian Constitution in order to satisfy the political aspiration of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Article 370 gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

The state of Jammu and Kashmir has its own constitution, separate flag and separate law of citizenship. Article 370 is very important for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir comprises three social and political region i.e. Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. Kashmir Valley is the heart of Kashmir region and this region is dominated by  Muslim Kashmiri.

Hindu Kashmiris are in a minority in Kashmir region. Jammu region is dominated by Hindu and Muslims are in a minority. Various languages are spoken in Jammu region. The Ladakh region is mountainous and population of this region is very small. The population of this region is almost equally divided between Buddhists and Muslims.

Separatist politics which surfaced in Kashmir from 1989 has taken different form and is made of various strands. Firstly, there are some separatists who want Kashmir as an Independent state. Secondly, there are some separatist groups who want merger of Kashmir with Pakistan. Thirdly, there are many groups who want greater political autonomy for the people of Kashmir within the Indians Union.

The idea of political autonomy for Jammu and Kashmir has greatly affected the people of Jammu and Ladakh. The people of Jammu and Ladakh often made complaints of their backwardness and neglect. Therefore, they demand autonomy for Jammu and Ladakh region within the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The demand for intro-state autonomy is as strong as the demand for state autonomy. On 5-6 August 2019, Article 370 was abrogated from Indian constitution Ladakh separate from J&K. Both J&K and Ladakh become Union territory. Therefor now in India there is 28 states and 9 union territories.

Question 6.
What are the various positions on the issue of regional Autonomy for Kashmir ? Which of these do you think are Justifiable ? Give reasons for your answer.
Answer:
The State of Jammu and Kashmir comprises three distinct geographical units i.e. Kashmir, Jammu and Ladakh. Maharaja Hari Singh signed the Instrument of Accession on 26 October, 1947 and thus Jammu and Kashmir became a part of India. The Maharaja offered to accede on three subjects.

The ‘Kashmir issue’ is merely a dispute between India and Pakistan. This issue has external and internal dimensions. It involves the issue of Kashmiri identity known as Kashmiriyat and the aspiration of the people of J & K for political autonomy. Kashmir’s representative made it clear in the Constituent Assembly that Kashmir’s associations with India would be based only on the terms of the instrument of accession.

Article 370 is included in the Indian Constitution in order to satisfy the political aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Article 370 gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Sardar Patel declared in the Indian Constituent Assembly, “In view of the special problem with which the Jammu and Kashmir government is faced we have made special provisions for the continuancy of the state with the Union on existing basis.

“The state of Jammu and Kashmir has its own Constitution, separate flag and separate law of citizenship.” Moreover, the Control of the Union Government over the state of Jammu and Kashmir is not as effective at it is in other states. Changes in Article 370 can be made by the Parliament but with the consent of the government of Jammu and Kashmir.

Two opposite Views —This special status to Jammu and Kashmir has provoked two opposite reactions. One view is that Article 370 should be scrapped and should be removed from the Constitution whereas certain people favour retaining Article 370 in the Indian Constitution. Another view is that the ‘Autonomy’ conferred by Article 370 is not enough.

Mostly Kashmiris are demanding ‘Restoration of Autonomy’ or ‘Greater State Autonomy’.Which of the View is Justifiable ? In our opinion special status given to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 should be maintained due to following reasons :

1. Scrapping of Article-370 would be a breach of faith not only with the leaders of Jammu and Kashmir ; particularly leaders of National Conference, but also with the Constituent Assembly of the state and the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

2. Article-370 can be scrapped only by the method of amendment in the Indian Constitution which is not so easy because National Parties like Indian National Congress, CPI and CPM favour the retention of Article-370. Thus, the scrapping of Article-370 is unrealistic.

3. The best way to delete Article 370 is to persuade and convince the people of Jammu and Kashmir. So that the demand for scrapping Article 370 comes from the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

4. Article-370 had made it easy to deal with Maharaja Hari Singh of Jammu and Kashmir, the problem of contents of accession, Sheikh Abdullah Leader of National Conference and with the problem of demand for plebicite.

5. With the passage of time many parts of the Indian Constitution particularly part-I, II, III and the Preamble are applicable to Jammu and Kashmir with certain modification.

6. Under-IV Amendment Act 1963 of the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir the judges of the High court can be transferred from one state to the other state.

7. The Supreme Court of India is supreme and final court for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Supreme Court exercises the same jurisdiction in Jammu and Kashmir as in other states.

8. By Sixth Amendment Act 1965 Sadar-i-Riyasat came to be known as Governor where as Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir was disignated as Chief Minister.

9. Article-356 and 357 of the Indian Constitution have been extended to Jammu and Kashmir.

10. The financial relations between the Union and Jammu and Kashmir are the same as those between the union and other states.

11. Moreover, the state of Jammu and kashmir has a separate constitution and separate flag.On the basis of the above discussion regarding article-370 it is clear that the Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India but it enjoys special status and a unique position in the Indian Constitution. Under the present circumstances it is not easy to scrap or to delete Article-370.

It is only possible when political parties and people of Jammu and Kashmir demand the scrapping of Article-370. On 5-6 August 2019, Article 370 was abrogated from Indian constitution. Ladakh separate from J&K. Both J&K and Ladakh becomeUnion territory. Therefor now in India there is 28 states and 9 union territories.

Question 7.
The Assam Movement was a combination of cultural pride and economic backwardness. Explain. (Imp.)
Or
Assam Movement was a combination of cultural pride and economic backwardness. Justify the Statement.
Answer:
It is a hard fact that Assam Movement was a combination of cultural pride and economic backwardness. This can be justify on the basis of following facts :

1. The large scale migration into the North-East gave rise to a unique problem i.e. the local people pitted against outsiders or migrants. In many states of North-East local people started political and social movements against the outsiders because outsiders not only affect their culture but also exploit the natural resources for their benefits.

2. The Assam Movement from 1979 to 1985 is the best example of such movements against ‘outsider’. The foreigners against whom this agitation was directed were mostly migrant workers who had come in search of jobs from Bangladesh. The main contention of the agitators was that unless the foreigners were checked the state would be swamped by immigrants and the cultural identity of the state would be lost.

3. The Assamese felt that unless these foreign nationals are detected and deported they would reduce the indigenous Assamese into minority. Besides this, there were economic problems also due to foreigners. In Assam there was unemployment and poverty and Assamese considers foreigners responsible for economic problems.

4. In 1979 the All Assam Students Union (AASU), not affiliated to any party, led anti-foreigner movement. Students agitators insisted that the poll should be held only after the foreigners names are removed from the electoral rolls. They even prevented the candidates from filling their nominations.

5. The agitators demanded that all outsiders who had entered the state after 1951 should be sent back. The movement tried to blockade the movement of trains and supply of oil from Assam to refineries in Bihar.

6. Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi made serious efforts to solve the problems of foreigners. Negotiations took place in March, 1985. In these talks AASU (All Assam Students Union) adopted a realist approach and ultimately an agreement was signed on 15 August, 1985, by the Assam agitation leaders and Union Home Affairs Secretary.

Under this agreement the base date for detention and deletion of foreigners was fixed as 1 January, 1966. All the persons who came to Assam after 1 January, 1966 and before 24 March, 1971 were to be detected in accordance with the Foreigners Act, 1946.

The names of all such persons were to be deleted from the voters lists for ten years and thereafter these names were to be restored in the voters lists. All foreigners who came to Assam on or after 25 March, 1971 were to be detected and expelled. The agreement envisaged constitutional, legislative and administrative safeguard for the protection of the social, cultural and linguistic heritage of Assam.

The Government agreed tio take proper steps for the economic development of Assam. Assam Assembly elections were held in December 1986. Assam Gana Parishad (AGP), a party formed by the leader of AASU and Assam Gana Sangram Parishad, emerged victorious and formed government under Profulla Kumara Mahanta.

Question 8.
All regional movements needs not lead to separatist demands. Explain by giving examples from this chapter.
Answer:
There is a great reality that all regional movements need not lead to separatist demands. The inhabitants of Mizo Hills in Assam demanded secession from the Indian Union and established Mizo National Front to get their demand conceded. The Mizos organised armed agitation and commenced guerilla warfare. The MNF was banned during Chinese aggression.

The government, keeping their aspirations in view decided to make Mizo hills area a Union Territory, which was inaugurated by the Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi on 21st January, 1972. It was named Mizoram. However, Mizos headed by Laldenge were not satisfied with this arrangement. Ultimately in 1986, a peace agreement was signed between Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Laldenge. Under this agreement Mizoram was elevated from the status of a Union territory to be the 23rd state of India. Laldenge was made the Chief Minister of Mizoram.

Question 9.
Regional demands from different parts of India examplify the principle of unity with diversity. Do you agree ? Give reasons.
Answer:
We fully agree with the view expressed in this statement that regional demands from different parts of India examplify the principle of Unity with diversity. Following agruments support this view :

1. Regional Aspirations are part of Democratic System. India is a largest democratic country in the world. To make democratic system successful
it is essential that India should deal with regional aspirations on a regular basis because expression of regional aspirations is not a abnormal phenomenon. Even in small countries peoples are having regional aspirations.

2. Best Way. Democratic negotiations is the best way to respond to regional aspirations. Suppression of regional aspirations is not in the interest of Nation Unity. For example, Mizoram problem was solved by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi through negotiations.

3. Power Sharing. Regional aspiration can be fulfilled by sharing power. Every region should have an important role in deciding the destiny of the nation and to achieve this objective it is essential that regional parties or groups or leaders should share powers at the state level and even at the Centre.

4. Regional Imbalance in Economic Development. Regional inbalance in economic development contributes to the feelings of regional discrimination. In India regional imbalance has encouraged regional movements. For example, Assam movement on the issue of foreign nationals is the result of regional imbalance.

If some states economically developed rapidly and some states remain backward and poor, it leads to regional imbalance and inter-regional migration. People of backward states have lost faiths in democracy and they follow the path of agitations, protests, movements etc.

5. Wisdom and Farsightedness of the Makers of Constitution. Framers of Indian Constitution were not only wise but farsighted also in dealing with problem of diversity. Federal system is adopted with flexibility. Moreover, special provisions are mentioned in the Constitution to satisfy the regional aspiration.

For example, the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution allows different tribes, complete autonomy of preserving their culture and customary laws. These provisions have proved very useful in resolving political problems of North-East. Special status is given to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 of the Constitution. We can conclude very safely that regional demands from different parts of India examplify the principle of unity with diversity.

Question 10.
Read the passage and answer the questions below : (Imp.)

One of the Hazarika’s songs ………………. dwells on the Unity theme, the seven states of north-eastern India become seven sisters born of the same mother ………… Meghalaya went own way ……………….. Arunachal too separated and Mizoram appeared in Assam’s gateway as a groom to marry another daughter ………………. .The song ends with a determination to keep the unity of the Assamese with other smaller nationalities that are left in the present day Assam ………………………….. . The Karbis and the Mising brothers and sisters are our dear ones ……………… SANJIB BARUAH.

(a) Which Unity is the poet talking about ?
(b) Why were the States of North-East created separately out of the erstwhile state of Assam.
(c) Do you think that the same Theme of Unity could apply to all the regions of India ? Why ?
Answer:
(a) The poet is talking of Unity of North-East. This region now consists of seven states also referred to as ‘seven sisters’.
(b) The states of North-East created separately out of the earstwhile state of Assam due to following factors.

• To maintain the cultural indentity of the people of particular area. Demands for political autonomy arose when the non-Assamese felt that the Assam government was imposing Assamese language on them.
• These states were created for their economic development.

(c) In our opinion for the growth of nation it is essential that the same theme of Unity should also apply to all the regions of India.

Detailed, Step-by-Step NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Political Science Chapter 16 Rise of Popular Movements Questions and Answers were solved by Expert Teachers as per NCERT (CBSE) Book guidelines covering each topic in chapter to ensure complete preparation.

Rise of Popular Movements NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Political Science Chapter 16

Rise of Popular Movements Questions and Answers Class 12 Political Science Chapter 16

Question 1.
Which of these statements are incorrect ?
The Chipko Movement :
(a) was an environmental movement to prevent cutting down of trees.
(b) raised questions of ecological and economic exploitations.
(c) was a movement against alcoholism started by the women.
(d) demanded that local communities should have control over their natural resources.
Answer:
(c) was a movement against alcoholism started by the women.

Question 2.
Some of the statements below are incorrect. Identify the incorrect statements and rewrite those with necessary correction.
(a) Social movements are hampering the functioning of India’s democracy.
(b) The main strength of social movements lies in their mass base across social sections.
(c) Social movements in India emerged because there were many issues that political parties did not address.
Answer:
(a) Social movements are not hampering the functioning of India’s democracy.
(b) The main strength of social movements lies in their mass in base across social sections.
(c) There were many issues emerged in India because political parties did not address the social movements.

Question 3.
Identify the reasons which led to the Chipko Movement in U.P. in early 1970s? What was the impact of this movement ? {Imp.)
Answer:
Chipko Movement shows that tribals are mostly dependent upon forest products for their primary needs and survival. But the forest policies and management are blind to the needs of the common people. Chipko Movement began in two or three villages of Uttarakhand when the forest department refused permission to the villages to fall ash trees for making agricultural tools. The forest department allotted the same piece of land to some sports contractor for commercial use. Thus, the villagers protested against this decision of the government.

Chipko Movement (1947-77), hugging trees to prevent them from being cut down, linked the issue of environmental degradation of women’s increasing toil for fuel and fodder. This movement was started under the leadership of Chandi Prasad Bhatt and Sunderlal Bahuguna.

Major Issues Related to Chipko Movement.

Major demands or major issues of the Chipko Movement are as follows:

• Natural resources such as land, water, forests, etc., should be under the control of local communities.
• Forest contracts should be given to the local people and not to the outsiders.
• Minimum wages of the workers working in forests should be fixed.
• Low cost material should be provided to small- scale industries.
• Women asked the government to enforce prohibition.

Significance of Chipko Movement.

• This movement to ‘hug trees’ was one of the first grassroot environment movements, which attracted national and international attention.
• Chipko Movement was not only a movement to save environment but it is also seen as a ‘feminist movement’ not only because of the active participation of women but also because deforestation was seen as affecting women’s life in the hills in their search for fuel and fodder.
• Chipko Movement was not only a movement to save environment but it had a larger social base. Women protested against drinking habit of men.
• The government issued a ban on felling of trees in the Himalayan region for fifteen years.
• Chipko movement created awareness among the women of hilly region as women became aware about their rights.

Question 4.
The Bharatiya Kisan Union is a leading organisation highlighting the plight of farmers. What were the issues addressed by it in the nineties and to what extent were they successful? Describe any six factors which made the farmer’s movements run by Bharatiya Kisan Union as the most successful popular movement. (C.B.S.E. 2016)
Or
Examine the emergence, demands and success of BKU as one of the leading popular movement of India. (C.B.S.E. Sample Paper 2018)
Answer:
Though India is an Agricultural country yet the farmer’s associations came into existence quite later than trade unions, and even now their organisation are not that active and powerful. In 1977 Chaudhary Charan Singh tried to organise farmers. The Bjaratiya Kisan Union was established in 1980. It is mainly active in Punjab and Western U.P. The Bharatiya Kisan Union is a leading organisation highlighting the plight of farmers.

In 1987 the BKU emerged as a spontaneous movement against increase in electricity tariff imposed by U.P. government. They sat for Dharna in front of DM’s office, brought out processions and also held demonstrations. The farmers rallied behind Tikait and withheld of electricity bills for seven years. The state failed to take any action against the farmers for non-payment of bills because the farmers were fully involved in the movement. This movement was against the state and not against the landlords.

The B.K.U. Raised many economic issues.

• It demanded ending zonal restrictions on movement of foodgrains.
• Electricity rates should be reduces.
• Price of Sugarcane and Milk should be raised.
• It demanded writing off government levies payable by farmers of Punjab for provision of canals.
• Adequate compensation in case of natural disaster.
• The government should take the responsibility for selling the produce.

Many demands of the BKU were accepted by the government. In most of the cases government made concessions. The Bharatiya Kisan Union also familiarized the farmers with latest farming techniques, equipments, methods etc. It inspired farmers to start small-scale agro-industries. Right from the beginning the BKU remained away from party politics and it did not align itself with any political party. Thus BKU is non-political, secular, non-violent organisation.

Question 5.
The anti-arrack movement in Andhra Pradesh drew the atttention of the country to some serious issues. What were these issues ?
Answer:
In Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh men in the villages were habitual of taking alcohol i.e. arrack. The habit of alcoholism was ruining the health of the people. Moreover, financial conditions of the families were also ruined. Women and childern were the worst sufferers of these ill-effects of alcohol. Women in Nellore district came together and they started anti arrack movement. Many wine shops were closed in Nellore.

The arrack auctions in Nellore district were postponed 17 times. This movement in Nellore district gradually spread all over the state. In 1992 women took out a big procession in Hyderabad to mark protest against the sale of arrack. The slogan of anti-arrack movement was ‘Prohibition on the sale of arrack.’ Anti-arrack movement of Andhra Pradesh draws the attention of the country to some serious issues such as domestic violence, custom of dowry, sexual abuse at work and public places etc.

Question 6.
Would you consider the anti-arrack movement as a women’s movement ? Why ?
Or
Describe the issues associated with the anti-arrack movements in Andhra Pradesh which drew the attention of the entire country. (Imp.) (C.B.S.E. 2016)
Answer:
Anti-arrack movement in Andhra Pradesh was definitely a movement of women. In Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh women came together in spontaneous local initiatives to protest against arrack (Local alcohol) and forced closure of wine shop.The news spread very fast and women of about 5000 villages got inspired and met together in meetings, passed resolution for complete prohibition and sent these resolutions to the District Collector and Higher autorities.

Due to women’s protests, the arrack auctions in Nellore district were postponed 17 times. In 1992 women took out a big procession in Hyderabad to protest against the sale of ‘arrack’. Women also raised the issue of domestic violence : Anti-arrack movement became a part of the women’s movement.

Question 7.
Why did the Narmada Bachao Aandolan oppose the dam projects in the Narmada Valley ?
Or
What is Sardar Sarovar Project ? Which benefits are expected to be if the project becomes successful ? Also state the issues of relocation and rehabilitation associated with it. (C.B.S.E. 2016)
Answer:
In early eighties development project was launched in the Narmada Valley of Central India. The project consisted of 30 big dams, 135 medium sized and about 3000 small dams to be constructed on the Narmanda. Sardar Sarovar Project in Gujarat and Narmada Sagar project in Madhaya Pradesh were very big and important projects. Narmada Bachao Aandolan was started in 1988-89. Narmada Bachao Aandolan opposes the dam projects bacause the constructions of the dam needed 245 villages to get submerged. It also required about two and a half lakh people from these villages.

The movement demanded that the people who are affected directly or indirectly by the projects should be properly rehabilitated. The NBA also demanded participation of local people in decision-making and should also have effective control over natural resources like water, land and forests. Ultimately the government and the judiciary accepted the right to rehabilitation. A compahensive National Rehabilitation Policy formed by the government in 2003.

Question 8.
Do movements and protest in a country strengthen democracy ? Justify your answer with examples.
Or
How have popular movements contributed to the expansion of democracy rather than causing disruption ? (C.B.S.E. 2012)
Answer:
In the whole world movements and protests are considered a part of democratic system. In fact movements and protests in a peaceful manner strengthen the democratic system. But some critics of movements and protests are of view that collective action i.e. Strikes, Dharna, Bandh and Demonstration etc. disrupt the functioning of the government, delay in decision-making and destablize the routines of democratic system.

But such a view raised one important question. Why do these movements and protests resort to such assertive terms of action ? Effective representation to different groups and their demands are ensured by popular movements and protests. Involvement of different groups in popular movements have broadened the participation of masses in democratic system.

The study of popular movements are very helpful in understanding the nature of democratic politics. Non-party movements dare neither sporadic in nature nor are these a problem. These movements have proved very helpful in solving some problems of party- politics and thus these movements should be seen as an integral part of our democratic life.

Generally in these movements poor workers, farmers and economically and socially backward sections of the society participate. These people have no voice in routine working of democracy. Hence their grievances and voice have some say through these movements.

In the interest of masses democratic politics requires a broad alliance of different disadvantaged social groups. But under leadership of these movements such and alliance is not developing. Political Parties are required to play effective role in bringing different social groups together under common leadership. But in reality political parties are not playing proper and effective role because the relationship betwen popular movements and political parties has grown weaker over the years. At present it is one big problem of Indian politics.

Question 9.
What issues did the Dalit Panthers Address ?
Or
Who were Dalit Panthers ? Describe their main activities. (C.B.S.E. 2016)
Answer:
In Indian society Dalit has become against casteism. Here the word ‘Dalit’ clearly indicates for backward and lower castes, whereas the fact is that no particular caste or class is included in Dalit class. All backward classes, Scheduled castes and Scheduled tribes are included in Dalit.

In the 20th century Mahatma Gandhi worked in the colonies of ‘Harijans’ to improve the social, economic and political conditions of the Dalit. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar played a very important role for the improvemrnt of the Dalits. When in 1971 Indian Republican Party was disintegrating in Maharashtra, another organisation called Dalit Panther emerged over there under the leadership of Raja Dhale and Namdev Dhasal.

Dalit Panthers was a militant organisation of educated Dalit youths. Babu Rao Bagul, E.P. Soukamble gave direction to dalit policies through their poems, literature and biographers. Dalit Panthers openly challenged casteism and Brahmanism. Following reasons were responsible for the rise of Dalit Panthers Movement :

1. Social and economic reasons are responsible for the rise of Dalit Panthers, movement.
According to Abhaya Dubey, Dalit Panthers movement was inspired by Dalit literature that demanded Dalit rights.
The rising unemployment in Maharashtra was another reason for the origin of Dalit Panthers. Main reason of the rise of Dalit Panthers was increasing atrocities on the dalits.

Dalit Panthers were convinced that no political party was a genuine champion of the dalits as they remained either indifferent to their problems or adopted postures to get dalit votes.
Policy and Programmers of Dalit Panthers. Dalit panthers raised the following issues for the welfare of Dalit.

1. The ‘Panther’ aim was to unite the Dalit and to bring them into their fold.

2. According to the manifesto of Dalit Panthers, ‘Dalit’ word includes scheduled castes and tribes, new Buddhists, economically backward workers, women, landless, poor peasants and all those persons who were being exploitated.

3. Accoding to Dalit Panthers manifesto main problems of Dalit are lack of food water, shelter, jobs, land and their unequal social status and atrocities on them.

4. According to Dalit Panthers their problem could be solved by acquiring economic and political power.

5. The liberation of scheduled caste is possible only with a basic change in the system through a revolution.

6. The Dalit Panthers opposed the anti-dalit policies of the government.

7. Namdev and Dhale formulated a programme for the betterment of dalits in February 1974 and this programme is known as ‘class struggle’.

8. Dalit Panthers described Shiv Sena as fasist Hindu organisation.

9. Dalit Panthers had concentrated on the problems of the dalit women, land disputes and retaliating the Shiv Sena activities.

10. Dalit Panthers demanded Dalitasten. It was a demand for separate village settlements of Dalits, where there could be no exploitation by superior people.

11. Dalit Panthers have full faith in Constitutional methods.
Conclusion. No doubt Dalit Panthers played very important role for the betterment of Dalit in Maharashtra. But Dalit Panthers did not succeed in achieving their aims because Dalit Panthers disintegrated in a short period. Some leaders left the Dalit Panthers and joined left movement and some leaders joined Congress.

Question 10.
Read the passage and answer questions below :

……………… nearly all’ new social movements have emerged as corrective to new maladies …………… environmental degradation, violation of the status of women, destruction of tribal cultures and the ………………. undermining of human rights none of which are in and by themselves transformative of the social order . They are in that way quite different from revolutionary ideologies of the past. But their weakness lies in their being so heavily fragmented ………………. a large part of the space occupied by the new social movements seen to be suffering from ……………… various characteristics which have prevented them from being relevant to the truly oppressed and the poor in the form of a solid unified movement of the people. They are too fragmented, reactive and hocish, providing no comprehensive framework of basic social change. Their being anti this or that (anti-west, anti-capitalist, anti-development, etc.) does not make them any more coherent any more relevant to oppressed and peripheralized community ……………… Rajni Kothari.

(a) What is the difference between new social movements and revolutionary ideologies ?
(b) What according to the author are the limitations of social movements ?
(c) If social movements address specific issues, would you say that they are fragmented or that they are more focused ? Give reasons for your answer by giving examples.
Answer:
(a) Almost all new social movements have emerged as corrective to new maladies i.e. environmental degradation, violation of the status of women, destruction of tribal culture and undermining of human rights—none of which are in and by
themselves transformation of the social order. They are in that way quite different from revolutionary ideologies of the past.

(b) Social movements seem to be suffering from various characteristics which have prevented them from being relevant to the truly opperessed and the poor in the form of a solid unified movement of the people.

(c) If social movements address specific issues, they are fragmented because they are providing no comprehensive framework of basic social change.

Detailed, Step-by-Step NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Political Science Chapter 15 The Crisis of Democratic Order Questions and Answers were solved by Expert Teachers as per NCERT (CBSE) Book guidelines covering each topic in chapter to ensure complete preparation.

The Crisis of Democratic Order NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Political Science Chapter 15

The Crisis of Democratic Order Questions and Answers Class 12 Political Science Chapter 15

Question 1.
State whether the following statements regarding the Emergency are correct or incorrect.
(а) It was declared in 1975 by Indira Gandhi.
(b) It led to the suspension of all fundamental rights.
(c) It was proclaimed due to the deteriorating economic conditions.
(d) Many opposition leaders were arrested during the emergency.
(e) CPI supported the proclamation of the emergency.
Answer:
(a) Correct
(b) Correct
(c) Incorrect,
(d) Correct
(e) Correct.

Question 2.
Find the odd one put in the context of proclamation of emergency.
(a) The call for Total Revolution.
(b) The Railway strike of 1974.
(c) The Naxalite Movement.
(d) The Allahabad High Court Verdict.
(e) The findings of the Shah Commission Report.
Answer:
(a), (b) and (c).

Question 3.
Match the following : (Imp.)
(a) Total Revolution – (I) Indira Gandhi
(b) Garibi Hatao – (II) Jayaprakash Narayan
(c) Students’ Protest – (III) Bihar Movement
(d) Railway Strike – (IV) George Fernandes
Answer:
(a) – (II), (b) – (I), (c) – (III), (d) – (IV).

Question 4.
What were the reasons which led to the mid-term elections in 1980 ?
Answer:
In 1980 mid-term elections were held due to following reasons :
1. Janata Party assumed office in March, 1977 while it was formally born on 1st May, 1977. The Janata party was expected to solve almost all the problems that the Congress rule created or could not solve. But Janata Party failed to solve political, social and economic problems of the people. The Janata party government could do nothing for the common man. Within 28 months in office, the Janata Party government could give no practicable scheme for bringing an end to unemployment.

2. Within a few months of its coming into power, the Janata party showed signs of its breakdown. Smt. Indira Gandhi predicted that the Janata Party will dissolve under the strain of its own infighting and this is what has come out true. The various constituent parties of the Janata Party always continued to work on the basis of factionalism.

3. Due to split within Janata Party Prime Minister Mr. Desai lost its majority in the Lok Sabha and he resigned.

4. Ch. Charan Singh formed the government with the support of the Congress party. But Congress Party later withdrew the support and there was downfall of Ch. Charan Singh government in 1979.

Question 5.
The Shah Commission was appointed in 1977 by the Janata Party Government. Why was it appointed and what were its findings ?
Answer:
In March 1977 Janata Party Government was formed at the Centre. In May 1977, the Janata Party Government appointed a Commission of inquiry headed by Justice J.C. Shah, retired Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India, to inquire, “into several aspects of allegations of abuse of authority, excesses and malpractices committed and action taken in the wake of the emergency proclaimed on the 25 June, 1975.” The Commission examined many witnesses.

Even Smt. Indira Gandhi was summoned before the Commission, but she refused to answer any question. Shah commission submitted its observation and rec-ommendation in two Interim reports and third and final report. Shah Commission estimated that nearly one lakh eleven thousand people were arrested under preventive detention laws. Freedom of the Press was crushed and many restrictions were imposed on mass media. The Janata government accepted the report of the Shah Commission and it was tabled before both the Houses of Parliament.

Question 6.
What reasons did the Government give for declaring a National Emergency in 1975?
Answer:
Besides powers in normal times, the President of India has emergency powers as well. According to Article 352, if the President is satisfied that a grave emergency exists whereby the security of India or any part of India is threatened by war, external aggression or armed rebellion, he may proclaim a state of emergency.

Ever since the operation of the constitution, national emergency has been declared three times. Third time internal emergency was declared on the night of 25 June, 1975 and this emergency was removed on 21st March, 1977. Emergency was justified by the Prime Minister Indira Gandhi when she gave a speech in the Lok Sabha on July 22, 1975 and said, “The action is totally within our Constitutional framework and it was undertaken in order not to destroy the Constitution but to preserve the Constitution, to preserve and safeguard our democracy.”

National emergency was declared due to the following reasons or circumstances :

1. Economic Crisis. War took place between India and Pakistan in Dec. 1971 and Pakistan was defeated in the war. But this war had put a heavy strain on India’s economy. More than eight million people crossed over the East Pakistan border into India. Oil prices increased in the international market and this led to an all-round increase in the prices of other commodities.

In 1974, prices increased about 30 percent. The failure of monsoons in 1972-73 led to the downfall in agricultural production. Poverty and unemployment was very high. Hardships of masses increased and there was general atmosphere of dissatisfaction among the masses.

2. Railway Employees’ strike, Students unrest in Gujarat, etc. In April, 1974 there was a high strike of Railway employees which affected Indian Economy.

3. Gujarat movement. In January 1974, students in Gurjarat started an agitation against 20% hike in hostel food in the I.D. College of Engineering, but very soon it became a big movement known as Nav Nirman Movement. The movement was supported by all the opposition parties and demanded the resignation of the Chief Minister of Gujarat. President’s rule was imposed in Gujarat and ultimately Assembly elections were held in June 1975. The Congress was defeated in this election.

4. Bihar movement was started by students against the misrule, unemployment, rising prices, corruption, etc. Later on, this movement was led by great socialist leader Jayaprakash Narayan. The movement of Jayaprakash Narayan is also known as ‘Total Revolution’. Jayaprakash Narayan in a letter to people of Bihar, 1975 said, “This movement (Total Revolution) aims at bringing about a revolutionary change in all aspects of the life of both society and individual.

The objective of this movement is not merely to change the government, but also to change the society and the individual. That is why I have called it a total revolution In order to achieve this we shall have to carry on a sturggle for a long time, and at the same time carry on constructive and creative activities. Thus, double process of struggle and construction is a necessity in order to achieve total revolution.” Jayaprakash Narayan also discussed the economic and social problems of backward classes and Tribal people.

4. Allahabad High Court Judgement invalidating Smt. Indira Gandhi’s 1971 Election. On 12 June, 1975, Justice Jagmohan Lai Sinha of the Allahabad High Court passed a judgement declaring Indira Gandhi’s election to the Lok Sabha, invalid and made her ineligible to occupy her seat for six years.

On June 24, the Supreme Court vocational Judge Justice Krishna Iyer granted a stay that allowed Mrs. Indira Gandhi to function as the Prime Minister on the condition that she should not draw a salary and speak or vote in Parliament until the case was decided. In fact, this was the most important reason which led to the declaration of Emergency in India.

5. Demonstration in Delhi’s Ramlila Ground by All Opposition Parties. The opposition parties led by Jayaprakash Narayan demanded the resignation of Mrs. Indira Gandhi. On 25 June 1975, the opposition parties organised a massive demonstration at Delhi’s Ramlila Ground. Jayaprakash Narayan declared a nationwide Satyagraha for her resignation and asked the army, the police and government employees not to obey “illegal and immoral orders” of the government.

All these factors were responsible for declaring Internal Emergency on the night of 25 June, 1975. The Prime Minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi recommended the imposition of Emergency to President Fakhruddin Ah Ahmed. The President issued the proclamation immediately. Prime Minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi informed the Cabinet at a special meeting at 6 a.m. on 26 June, 1975.

Question 7.
The 1977 elections for the first time saw the opposition coming into : : power at the Centre. What would you onsider as the reasons for this development?
Or
“The 1977 elections for the first time saw the opposition coming to power at the centre.” Examine any six reasons for this change. (Imp.) (C.B.S.E. 2012 Delhi)
Or
Mention any six factors responsible for the defeat of the Congress party after the 1977 elections.(C.B.S.E. 2013)
Or
Assess any three happenings which were responsible for the downfall of the Congress Party in 1977 election. (C.B.S.E. 2014)
Answer:
In the election of 1977, both to the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, the Congress party lost its dominance. Not only it lost dominance, it got a erasing defeat at the hands of the newly emerged Janata Party. The following factors were responsible for the defeat of the Congress or the victory of the Janata Party in the 1977 election.

1. Imposition of Internal Emergency. For the first time in the history of free India, internal emergency was imposed by Mrs. Indira Gandhi. Immediately after the imposition of emergency, the leaders of all the opposition parties including J.P. Narayan were thrown behind the bars. The real motive behind the declaration of emergency was personal. Mrs. Indira Gandhi wants to stick to the “Kursi” of the Prime Minister.

2. Excess during Emergency. Basic liberties, of the people were suppressed. No individual or party could utter word against the imposition of emergency or the excess committed by the government.

3. Sanjay Gandhi as the Extra Constitutional Centre of Power. During emergency Sanjay Gandhi appeared as the extra constitutional centre of power. It was he who controlled the administration of India.

4. Imposition of Black Acts like MISA. During emergency, various black acts were passed by the Indira government. The people suspected of anything against the government could be corrested and thrown behind the bars without any trial under the MISA. The life, liberty, respect and property of no person was considered safe.

5. Constitutional Amendments. Indira government lowered the position of the Judiciary through the 42nd amendment. In fact, Judiciary was subordinated to the executive. The scope of Judicial review was limited to a great extent.

6. Compulsory Sterilization. At the instance of Sanjay Gandhi, various states particularly Haryana resorted to compulsory sterilization. Buses were stopped and sent to Hospital for sterilization of the passengers.

7. Rising Prices. The condition of the people of India had become very pitiable due to the continuous rise in prices. People were very sore with the Congress government over this issue.

8. Abolition of Bonus. The Congress government abolished bonus to the employees of public sector during emergency. As such they were very sore with the Congress government.

9. Availability of Alternate leadership. J.P. Narayan emerged as a leader of Indian unrest. He was the most respected leader after Nehru. People came to realise that they can fall back on J.P. Narayan after dislodging the Congress from power. Conclusion. We can conclude that emerency and the measures adopted during emergency by the Congress government were responsible for the defeat of the Congress party in 1977’s election.

Question 8.
Discuss the effects of Emergency on the following aspects of our polity.
Or
Evaluate any three consequences of Emergency of 1975. (C.B.S.E. 2014) )
(i) Effects on civil liberty for citizens.
(ii) Impact on relationship between the Executive and Judiciary.
(iii) Functioning of Mass Media.
(iv) Working of the Police and Bureaucracy.
Answer:
1. Effect on Civil Liberties for Citizen.
Fundamental Rights given under Article 19 (Six free-doms) were automatically suspended throughout the country. The suspension of Art. 19 continues until the proclamation of emergency ends. But according to 44th Amendment the liberties given in Art. 19 will become suspended only in case of a proclamation of emergency issued on the ground of war or external aggressive and not in case of a proclamation of emergency issued on the ground of armed rebellion. In June, 1975 during emergency protests and strikes and public agitations were disallowed. The government made extensive use of preventive detection.

2. Impact on Relationship between the Executive and Judiciary. The President by order can also suspend the right to move the court to enforce any other Fundamental Rights. All proceedings pending in any court for the enforcement of the rights so men¬tioned may remain suspended for the period during which proclamation is in force or for such short period as may be specified in the order. But according to 44th Amendment, the enforcement of the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 cannot be suspended.

3. Functioning of Mass Media. During emergency the government has a power to suspend the normal functioning of Mass Media. In 1975 during emergency the government suspended the Freedom of the Press. Newspapers were asked to get prior approval for all material to be published. Press censorship was enforced. Magazines like the Seminar and the Mainstream were close down rather than submitting to censorship. Many journalists were arrested for writing against the emergency.

4. Working of Police and Bureaucracy. During emergency police and bureaucracy are totally committed to the executive. Their prime duty is to follow the order of the executive.

Question 9.
In what way did the imposition of Emergency affect the party system in India ? Elaborate your answer with examples.
Or
What was the impact of Imposition of National Emergency (1975) on party system in India? (C.B.S.E. Sample Paper 2018)
Answer:
On the night of 25 June, 1975 President of India declared emergency on the advice of Prime
Minister Indira Gandhi, Emergency affected the working of political parties in many ways :

1. Almost all the leaders of opposition parties were arrested under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act, 1971 (MISA). This affected the working of political parties. Agitation, strikes, demonstration, etc. were not allowed. All liberties given under Article 19 were suspended. Due to censorship on the freedom of Press and other restrictions democratic functioning of political parties were badly affected. The public opinion was against the Congress Government. Jaya Prakash Narayan became a symbol of democratic values.

2. Moreover, the imposition of emergency and their subsequent intenment finally made political leaders to realize that they will simply rot if they do not stand united against the authoritarian style of Indira Gandhi. Hence the leaders of various parties that came in contact with one another in jails resolved to form one party i.e. Janata Party. That is why it is held that the Janata Party was born in jail.

3. The formation of Janata Party ensured that Non-Congress votes would not be divided. The 1977 election proved referendum on emergency experiences and masses rejected the Congress Party.

Question 10.
Read the passage and answer the questions below :
Indian democracy was never so close to a two-party system as it was during the 1977 elections. However, the next few years saw a complete change. Soon after its defeat, the Indian National Congress split into ………………. two groups The Janata Party also went
through major convulsions ……………. David Butler, Ashok Lahiri and Prannoy Roy

Partha Chatterjee
(a) What made the party system in India look like a two-party system in 1977?
(b) Many more than two parties existed in 1977. Why then are authors describing this period as close to a two-party system ?
(c) What caused splits in Congress and the Janata parties ?
Answer:
(a) Elections were held in March 1977, Party system in India look like a two party system in 1977’s elections. Almost all the major opposition parties or non-Congress parties formed Janata Party. For the first time in India a two-party system was in existence from 1977 to 1979.

(b) In 1977 elections more than two parties existed i. e. Janata Party, Congress (I), Communist Party of India, Communist Party (Marxist). There were many regional Parties i.e. Akali Dal, National Conference, DMK etc. However, the Authors had described this period as close to a two-party system because there were only two main parties the Janata Party and the Congress Party together accounted for over 50 percent of votes and seats.

(c) Split in the Congress. 1st January, 1978 is a day of split in Indian National Congress. The Congress party faced a crushing defeat in the General Election of March, 1977, Brahmanand Reddy was elected party president with the approval of Mrs. Gandhi. But there were difference between Reddy and Mrs. Gandhi on Presidential Candidate, Ultimately supporters of Mrs. Gandhi clearly demanded that she should be made the party president.

The problem in Karnataka created all the more tensions between two groups. Mrs. Gandhi resigned from the party executive. Mrs. Dev Raj Urs, a devoted supporter of Mrs. Gandhi was suspended by the party High Command on 26th December, 1977. The seven members of the party executive resigned as a protest against the decision of the Congress High Command.

Mrs. Gandhi’s supporters decided to hold the National Conference of the Congress workers on 1st and 2nd January 1978. Congress President Mr. Reddy and S.B. Chavan called this conference anti-party and directed the party members to boycot it. The National Conference was inaugurated by Mir Kasim and Mrs. Gandhi presided over it.

A resolution moved by Mr. Kamalapati Tripathi described the convention as truly representative of the Indian National Congress for a “Majority of members of the A.I.C.C. were present.” When Syed Mir Kasim put the resolution to votes delegates raised their hands to support and shouted slogans of ‘Desh Ki Neta : Indira Gandhi and ‘Indira Gandhi Jindabad.”

Thus the party faced split for the second time at the Vithal Bhai Patel Bhavan where it was divided in 1969. The executive of the Congress Party called its meeting on 3rd January and expelled Mrs. Gandhi and her supporters from the party. The Election Commission recognised the Congress (I) and alloted ‘Hand’ its election symbol.

Split in Janata Party. In April, 1980 the Janata Party broke into three separate groups i.e. the Lok Dal, the Bharatiya Janata Party and Janata Party. The following factors were responsible for the split of Janata Party :

1. The election manifesto of Janata Party stated that the party was not a Union of different parties but a national organisation. But this party never acted in this capacity. The different constituents of the party attached more importance to their original parties instead of thinking in terms of the party as a whole.

2. One important reason for the break-up of the Janata Party was the absence of a spirit of compromise.

3. The over-ambitious attitude of some individuals, temperamental incompatibilities and the party’s failure to appeal to the people responsible for the split in the Janata Party.

4. Lack of Towering Personality. There was no great personality within the Janata Party, as we had under the Congress.

5. Personal Feuding Among the Leaders. The party’s organisational weakness was compounded by personal ‘feuds, among its top three leaders (Morarji Desai, Charan Singh and Jagjiwan Ram).

6. Issue of Dual Membership. The most crucial issue that brought the downfall of the Janata government in 1979 was the dual membership of the erstwhile Jan Sangh members in the Janata Party who also had affiliations with the RSS. In March 1980, the Janata Parliamentary Board decided that “no legislator or office bearer of the Janata Party shall participate in the day-to-day activities of the R.S.S.”

But the leaders of the erstwhile Jana Sangh Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee, Mr. L.K. Adwani etc. expressed their strong reservation on it and recorded their dissent. Consequently, the former Jana Sangh elements, along with a few others, broke away from the Janta and formed a new party-the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Detailed, Step-by-Step NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Political Science Chapter 14 Challenges to and Restoration of Congress System Questions and Answers were solved by Expert Teachers as per NCERT (CBSE) Book guidelines covering each topic in chapter to ensure complete preparation.

Challenges to and Restoration of Congress System NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Political Science Chapter 14

Challenges to and Restoration of Congress System Questions and Answers Class 12 Political Science Chapter 14

Question 1.
Which of these statements about the 1967 elections is/are correct ?
(а) Congress won the Lok Sabha elections but lost the Assembly election in many states.
(b) Congress lost both Lok Sabha and As-sembly elections.
(c) Congress lost majority in the Lok Sabha but formed a coalition government with the support of some other parties.
(d) Congress retained power at the Centre with an increased majority.
Answer:
(a) Correct
(b) Incorrect
(c) Correct
(d) Incorrect.

Question 2.
Match the following : Imp.
(a) Syndicate – An elected representative leaving the party on whose ticket he has been elected.
(b) Defection – A catchy phrase that attracts public attention.
(c) Slogan – Parties with different ideological position coming together to oppose Congress and its policies.
(d) Anti-Congressism – A group of powerful and influential leaders within the Congress.
Answer:
(a) – (IV), (b) – (I), (c)-(II), (d)-(III).

Question 3.
Whom would you identify with the fol-lowing slogans/phrases.
(а) Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan.
(b) Indira Hatao.
(c) Garibi Hatao.
Answer:
(a) Lai Bahadur Shastri.
(b) The Grand Alliance.
(c) Sint. Indira Gandhi.

Question 4.
Which of the following statements about the Grand Alliance of 1971 is correct ?
The Grand Alliance
(a) was formed by non-Communist, non-Congress parties.
(b) had a clean political and ideological programme.
(c) was formed by all non-Congress parties.
Answer:
(a) was formed by non-Communist, non-Congress parties.

Question 5.
How should a political party resolve its internal differences ? Here are some sugges¬tions. Think of each and list out their advantages and shortcomings.
(a) Follow the footsteps of the party president.
(b) Listen to the majority group
(c) Secret ballot voting on every issue.
(d) Consult the senior and experienced leaders of the party.
Answer:
Advantages :
(a) If we follow the footsteps of the party president, the party become disciplined and strong.
(b) It strengthen democratic system with the party.
(c) Secret ballot voting is the best to decide issues within the party.
(d) When senior and experienced leaders of the party are consulted, it gives us good path and proper guidance.

Disadvantages:
(a) If party president is not followed, it leads to indispline in the party and party becomes weak.
(b) If majority view is not listened properly, it is against the democratic spirit. Moreover, majority will not express its opinion freely.
(c) When there is secret ballot on every issue then there is danger of cross voting.
(d) If senior and experienced leaders of the party are not consulted, the party will lost its right and just path of goodness.

Question 6.
State which of these were reasons for the defeat of the Congress in 1967. Give reasons for your answer.
(а) The absence of a Charistmatic leader in the Congress Party.
(b) Split within the Congress party.
(c) Increased mobilisation of regional, ethnic and communal groups.
(d) Increasing unity among Non-congress parties.
(e) Internal differences within the Congress Party.
Answer:
(a) The absence of a charismatic leader in the Congress party was one main reason for the defeat of the Congress Party in 1967. During the first three general elections Congress was led by great leader Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru. But new prime minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi was in office for less than a year.

(b) Groupism and factionalism within the Congress Party was mainly responsible for the defeat of the Congress Party.

(c) Increased mobilisation of regional, ethnic and communal groups were also responsible to some extent for the defeat of the Congress Party in 1967.

(d) Increasing unity among non-Congress parties was another important reason for the defeat of the Congress Party.

(e) Internal differences within the Congress Party is very important factor for the defeat of the Congress Party in fourth general election, 1967.

Question 7.
What were the factors which led to the popularity of Indira Gandhi’s government in the early 1970s ?
Answer:
After the death of Prime Minister Lai Bahadur Shastri, Smt. Indira Gandhi became the Prime Minister of India in 1966. In the beginning Smt. Indira Gandhi was not very strong and popular Prime Minister. But with the passage of time, she became very popular. Following factors were responsible for the popularity of Indira Gandhi’s Government is the early 1970s :

1. Charismatic Personality. Smt. Indira Gandhi became very popular due to her charismatic personality. Like Jawaharlal Nehru, Smt. Indira Gandhi possessed an unparalled personality. According to Frank Morris, “Mrs. Gandhi’s was not only the undisputed leader of the Congress party, but it was her party and she could dominate it in a way which none else had done.

She was free to choose her colleagues who were her agents or assistants and in her presence tremble and obey.” In the elections to the Fourth Lok Sabha, held in 1971, people voted for the Congress on account of the fact that it was being led by Mrs. Indira Gandhi.

2. Socialistic Policies of Indira Gandhi’s Government. Socialist policies of Indira Gandhi’s Government made her very popular among the masses. Mrs. Indira Gandhi launched a series of initiatives to give the Government policy a left orientation.

Smt. Indira Gandhi pursued a vigorous policy in 1969 of land reform and placed a ceiling on personal income, private property and corporate profits. In 1969, she ordered the nationalisation of India’s fourteen largest banks.

It was in fact a very bold step which made her very popular among the people. Mrs. Indira Gandhi supported the demand that the Government should abolish privy purses. But Morarji Desai called this move morally wrong and amounting to a breach of faith with the princes. However, ultimately privy purses were abolished.

3. Garibi Hatao. The fifth general elections to the Lok Sabha were held in February 1971. Mrs. Indira Gandhi gave a very popular slogan ‘Garibi Hatao’. By this slogan she got the support of backward classes, adivasis, unemployed youths, minorities, women and Scheduled castes and Scheduled tribes.

4. Strong Hold of Party. Smt. Indira Gandhi had a strong hold cn her party.

5. Polarisation of Votes in 1971. The polarisation of votes in 1971s fifth general election went in the favour of Smt. Indira Gandhi.

6. Weak Opposition. Another reason of popularity of Indira Gandhi was that the opposition was weak.

Question 8.
What does the term ‘Syndicate’ mean in the context of the Congress Party of the sixties ? What role did the Syndicate play in the Congress party ?
Answer:
In the Indian National Congress there was a group of leaders which was known as ‘Syndicate’. This Syndicate control the organisation of the Congress party. This group was led by K. Kawraj, former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and then the President of the Congress Party. Syndicate include powerful state leader like N. Sanjiva Reddy of Andhra Pradesh, S.K. Patil of Bombay, Atulya Ghosh of West Bengal and S. Nigalingappa of Mysore.

Role of the Syndicate in the Congress Party. After the death of Pt. Jawhar Lai Nehru ‘Syndicate’ played a very important role in the Congress party. Mr. Lai Bahadur Shashtri was elected leader of the Congress due to the support of the syndicate. After the sudden death of Mr. Lai Bahadur Shastri Mrs.

Indira Gandhi was elected the leader of the Congress Parliamentary Party and Mr. Morarji Desai was defeated. Mrs. Indira Gandhi became the leader of the Congress Party because she was whole heartedly supported by the syndicate.

The Syndicate’ had played an important role in formation of Mrs. Gandhi’s first Council of Ministers. Leader of the Syndicate expected Mrs. Indira Gandhi to follow their advice. But Mrs. Indira Gandhi gradually started asserting her position within the government and the party. Ultimately she sidelined the Syndicate.

Due to differences between the Syndicate and Indira Gandhi there was split in the Congress Party in 1969. Leader of the Syndicate and those owing allegiance to then came to be known as Congress (O). Those owing allegiance to Smt. Gandhi was known as Congress (R). In the 1971 elections almost all the leaders of the Syndicate i.e. Congress (O) were defeated and Indira Congress won a two- third majority in the Lok-Sabha.

Question 9.
Discuss the major issue which led to the formal split of the Congress Party in 1969.
Or
Examine three reasons responsible for the split in the Congress Party during 1969. (C.B.S.E. 2014)
Or
Describe any three important events : . that led to the split in the congress : party in 1969. (C.B.S.E. 2019) S
Answer:
Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru have a hold on the Congress Party that kept the party united with his charismatic leadership and magnatic personality. But his death left a vacuum in the party which was never filled. Significantly, the most notorious and long-lasting of central faction, the so-called syndicate came into being during his last illness.

An alliance of non-Hindi state leaders, its original purpose to prevent election of Morarji Desai to the party presidency. Although it played a useful role in securing the unopposed elec-tion of Lai Bahadur Shastri as prime minister, the virtually unconcealed factionalism, it introduced into the central council of minister had wrought havoc by the time of the 1967 elections. A rival faction, which supporte.

Morarji Desai for the Prime Ministership as, against Mrs. Gandhi was less powerful and uniter, but hardly less damaging. Thus even before the election of 1967, the stage was set for the subsequent party split.

The rout of the Congress in 1967 general election in which congress emerged in a low morale catalyed the process of open confession of factionalism. The Syndicate member began to ally themselves with Swatantra, Jan Sangh and S.S.P.

which later on emerged as grand Alliance. The grand Alliance political manifested itself openly at the time of election of the President in 1969. In the Congress Parliamentary Board, Mrs. Indira Gandhi proposed to name of Jagjiwan Ram for presidenship which was opposed by the Syndicate group.

Instead Mr. Morarji Desai proposed the name of Sanjiva Reddy who was selected. She disapproved of the choice and left the meeting in anger saying “You will have to bear the consequence of this.” In opposition to the official condidate of the Congress, V.V. Giri Independent candidate was elected President of India due to Mrs. Indira Gandhi. This led to the split in the Congress party.

Question 10.
Read the passage and answer the questions below :
Indira Gandhi changed the Congress into highly centralised and undemocratic party organisation, from the earlier federal, democratic and ideological formation that Nehru had led But this could not have happened had not Indira Gandhi changed the entire nature of politics. This new populist politics turned political ideology into a more electoral discourse, use of various slogans not meant to be translated into governmental policies During its electoral victories in early 1970s, amidst the celebration, the Congress party as a political organisation died Sudipta Kaviraj.
(а) What according to the author is the difference between the strategies of Nehru and Indira Gandhi ?
(b) Why does the author say that the Congress party died in the seventies ?
(c) In what way did the change in the Congress party affect other political parties also ?
Answer:
(a) Pt. Jawaharlal adopted a federal, democratic and ideological strategies within a Congress as well as in the political system of the country. But Smt. Indira Gandhi changed the entire nature of politics. She changed the Congress into highly centralised and undemocratic party organisation. Smt. Indira Gandhi adopted ‘populist politics’.

(b) The authors has rightly said that the Congress party died in the seventies because Congress party has lost its ideology and principles. Instead of ideology, Smt. Indira Gandhi gave more attention to the populist politics. Smt. Indira Gandhi restored the Congress system by changing the nature of the Congress system itself.

(c) Various changes in the Congress party also affected other political parties. Many political parties have no existence when various important changes were made in the Congress party.

Detailed, Step-by-Step NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Political Science Chapter 12 Politics of Planned Development Questions and Answers were solved by Expert Teachers as per NCERT (CBSE) Book guidelines covering each topic in chapter to ensure complete preparation.

Politics of Planned Development NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Political Science Chapter 12

Politics of Planned Development Questions and Answers Class 12 Political Science Chapter 12

Question 1.
Which of these statements about the Bombay Plan is incorrect ?
(a) It was a blueprint for India’s economic future.
(b) It supported state ownership of industry.
(c) It was made by some leading industrialists.
(d) It supported strongly the idea of planning.
Answer:
(a) It was a blueprint for India’s economic future.

Question 2.
Which of the following ideas did not form part of the early phase of India’s development policy ?
(a) Planning
(b) Liberalisation
(c) Cooperative Farming
(d) Self-sufficiency.
Answer:
(b) Liberalisation.

Question 3.
The Idea of Planning in India was drawn from :
(a) The Bombay Plan
(b) Experiences of the Soviet bloc countries.
(c) Gandhian Vision of Society
(d) Demand by Peasant Organisation.
(I) b and d only
(II) d and c only
(III) a and b only
(IV) all the above.
Answer:
(III) (a) and (b) only.

Question 4.
Match the following : (Imp.)
(a) Charan Singh – (i) Industrialisation
(b) P.C. Mahalanobis – (ii) Zoning
(c) Bihar Famine – (iii) Farmers
(d) Verghese Kurien – (iv) Milk Cooperatives
Answer:
(a)—(iii) (b)—(i) (c)—(ii) (d)—(iv)

Question 5.
What were the major differences in the approach towards development at the time of independence ? Has the debate been resolved ?
Or
Which two models of modern development were there before India on the eve of independence ? Which model did India, decide to choose and why ? (Imp.) (C.B.S.E. 2016)
Or
Examine the different areas of agreements and disagreements with respect to the model of economic development to be adopted in India after independence. (C.B.S.E. 2016)
Answer:
At the time of Independence India had before it, two models of development: the Liberal-Capitalists Models and Socialist Model. Liberal-Capitalists Model was followed by Europe and United States whereas Socialist Model was followed by U.S.S.R. and other communist countries. In India there were many leaders and scholars who were highly impressed by the Soviet Model of development. Communist Party, Socialist Party and even Democrate Socialists like Pt.

Nehru within the Congress were supporters of Soviet Model of development. There were few supporters of Capitalists Model of development. The Nationalist leaders were very clear about the responsibility of the government. According to them it is the responsibility of the government to remove poverty and to ensure proper economic redistribution.

Question 6.
What was the major thrust of the First Five Year Plan ? In which ways did the Second Plan differ from the first one ?
Answer:
The objective of the First Plan was to rehabilitate the economy disrupted on account of World War II and partition of the country and to increase the production of foodgrains, Cotton and Jute. The priority was given to the development of agriculture. Target of increased production of foodgrains, Jute and Cotton was mainly achieved by bringing more land under cultivation.

But in the Second Five Year Plan (1956-61) top priority was accorded to the setting up of ‘Socialistic Pattern of Society’ on the basis of Industrial Policy statement 1956. In the Second Plan major thrust was to accelerate the process on industrialization by laying emphasis on basis and heavy industries. In the Second Plan the share of industries in the public sector outlay increased from 5 percent to 24 percent and that of agriculture and irrigation decreased from 37 percent to 21 percent.

Question 7.
What was Green Revolution ? Examine any two positive and two negative consequences of Green Revolution.
Answer:
In 1960s, India was facing food crisis due to many reasons. India was dependent on U.S.A. for food which was putting many limitations on India’s policies. Indian Government decided to make India self-sufficient in food. Hence the government adopted a new strategy for agriculture in order to increase food production. Since the mid 1960s, the traditional agricultural practices were gradually replaced by modern technology.

Use of high-yielding variety seeds and the increased use of fertilisers and irrigation are simply called Green Revolution or modern agricultural technology. As a result of Green Revolution, area under improved seeds has gone up from about 15 million hectares during 1970—71 to nearly 75 million hectares in 1995-96. The new varieties are of a short term duration and consequently, instead of growing one crop, two crops and sometimes even three crops are grown.

The major benefits of the Green Revolution were experienced mainly in northern and north western India. Unprecedented enthusiasm has prevailed among farmers in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan and Western U.P. for the new wheat variety seeds and a situation developed in which the demand for seeds by farmers exceeded the supply.

Economic Results/Positive Consequences of the Green Revolution.

• The major achievement of the Green Revolution was to boost the production of major cereals viz wheat and rice.
• As a result of the Green Revolution, the crop pattern in India has undergone significant changes.
• Green revolution largely increased the growth of local manufacturing sector which created new jobs and contributed to the country’s GDP.
• India became self-sufficient in food and India was in a position to pay back all loans it had taken from the World Bank for the purpose of Green Revolution.
• Green Revolution has helped the growth of capitalist farming in India and has led to the concentration of wealth in the hands of the top 10 percent of the rural population.

Political Results of the Green Revolution.

• India became self-sufficient in food and thus India’s prestige increased in the world, especially in the third world.
• Green Revolution was a big factor in making Smt. Indira Gandhi and Congress Party more powerful.

Two Negative Consequences of Green Revolution

• Green Revolution led to the concentration of wealth in the hands of top 10 per cent of the rural population. Green revolution had widened the gap between poor and small farmers and rich landlords.
• Green Revolution has proved beneficial to the medium category peasants because they could receive the advantage of mediation between small farmers and rich landlords.

Question 8.
State the main arguments in the debate that ensued between industrialisation and agricultural development at the time of Second Five Year Plan.
Answer:
The Second Five Year Plan stressed on heavy industries. Indian planners, Prof. P.C. Mahalanobis, was the real architect of the Second Plan. He adopted a strategy which emphasised investment in heavy industry to achieve industrialisation which was assumed to be the basic condition for rapid economic development. For Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, the development of heavy industry was synonymous with industrialisation.

For Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru industrialisation meant development of heavy industries. In fact, there was a big debate whether more importance should be given to industries or agriculture. Many thought that the Second Plan lacked an agrarian strategy for development, and emphasis on industry caused agriculture and rural india to suffer.

Ch. Charan Singh, a Congress leader who later formed Bharatiya Lok Dal, forcefully articulated the case for keeping agriculture at the centre of planning for India. He was of the view that planning was increasing the prosperity in urban and industrial sector at the cost of farmers and rural people.

However, the planners justified their strategy of rapid development through rapid industrialisation.

• The planners felt that the country with its vast natural and human resources was ideally suited for industries.
• Indian agriculture was suffering from heavy population pressure on land. One method of reducing this pressure of population on land was to shift the surplus population to industries.
• Rapid industrialisation was an essential condition for the development of not only agriculture but also for all other sectors in the country.
• Rapid increase in national and per capita income would be possible only through rapid industrialisation.

Question 9.
Indian policy makers made a mistake by emphasising the role of state in the economy. India could have developed much better if private sector was allowed a free play right from the beginning. Give arguments for or against this proposition.
Answer:
There are two models of development i.e. Capitalist Model or Liberal model and Socialist Model. But India did not accept any one of the two models. India adopted neither capitalistic model nor socialist model. India adopted ‘Mixed Economy.’ In ‘Mixed Economy’ public sector and private sector go together.

Liberal, Rightists and many critics of Indian economy are of the view that “Indian policy makers made a mistake by emphasising the role of state in the economy. They are of the view that India could have developed much better if private sector was allowed a free play right from the beginning.”

Inspite of the fact that India adopted a planned economy. The speed of economic development was very slow. Rate of capital formation was 6% whereas it should have been 12 per cent. Hence during the regime of Sh. Rajiv Gandhi, important changes were made in the economic policy.

The policy of liberation and privatisation was adopted. Efforts were made to remove restrictions on the private sector. All restrictions were removed on cement industry. Licences were removed on 94 medicine and 27 industries were out of the M.R.T. P. Act. Arguments in Favour of Private Sector.

Following are the main arguments in favour of privatisation :

(1) Full Utilisation of Natural Resources.
India is a rich country but Indians are poor. In India natural resources are not fully utilised due to lack of technology and scientific means. Liberalisation and Privatisation will be helpful in utilising the natural resources.

(2) Production will Increase. Liberalisation and privatisation will increase the production and there will be no shortage of commodities. In India before liberalisation there was a big shortage of cement, scooters, carts, etc. But now there is no shortage because production has increased to a large extent.

(3) Increase in Efficiency. Privatisation increases efficiency in industries. In private sectors employees are selected purely on the basis of merit system. Each employee works according to his ability and competence. Lazy and inefficient employees have no place in private sector.

(4) High Rate of Return. Due to privatization there is more savings and hence there is heavy investment in industries.

Arguments Against Privatisation. Following are the main demerits of liberalisation and privatisation:
1. Increase in Unemployment. Liberalisation and privatisation increase the unemployment because modern machines are used to increase the efficiency. Modernisation in industries means more unemployment.

2. Increase in Prices. Privatisation will increase the prices because industrialists will fix the prices of their own sweet will.

3. Exploitation of Workers. Industrialists exploit the workers. Workers have to work more but they are paid less wages.

4. Class Struggle. In privatisation class struggle increases between the industrialists and the workers.
Conclusion. Present age is an age of globalisation and it is very essential for India to be a part of world economy. Hence India has rightly adopted liberalisation. In the beginning, Mixed Economy was the best. Even now de-nationalisation of all the industries is not in the interest of the nation. Public sector should be modernised and it should not be eliminated completely.

Question 10.
Read the following passage and answer the questions below :
“In the early years of Independence, two contradictory tendencies were already well advanced inside the Congress party. On the one hand, the national party executive endorsed socialist principles of state ownership, regulation and control over key sectors of the economy in order to improve productivity and at the same time curb economic concentration. On the other hand, the National Congress Government pursued liberal sole criterion of achieving maximum increase in producion.” —Francine Frankel
(a) What is the contradiction that the author is talking about ? What would be the political implications of a. contradiction like this ?
(b) If the author is correct, why is it that the Congress was pursuing this policy ? Was it related to the nature of the opposition parties ?
(c) Was there also a contradiction between the central leadership of the Congress party and its state level leaders ?
Answer:
(a) According to Francine Frankel, there were two contradictions i.e.
(I) National party executive endorsed socialist principles of state ownership, regulation and control and
(II) The National Congress Government pursued liberal economic policies incentives to private investment.
(b) The author is correct. The Congress was pursuing this policy under political compulsion. This was definitely related to the nature of opposition parties.
(c) In fact, there was a contradiction between the central leadership of the Congress party and its state level leaders.