si11124, 1:60 PM 4) Social Reforms and Reformers in Modem India (Prelims PYQs) - Education Province 2020 Prelims PYQs 1] The Vital-Vidhwansak, the first monthly journal to have the untouchable people as its target audience was published by: [2020] a) Gopal Baba Walangkar b) Jyotiba Phule ©) Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi 4) Bhimrao Ranji Ambedkar > Show Answer ¥ Show Explanation The zing Vital-Vidhwansak: A Beacen for the Untouchables journal, its publisher Gopal Baba Walangkar, and its impact: Gopal Baba Walangkar: A Champion for the Untouchables ‘© Background: Walangkar, born into the Mahar caste (considered untouchable), was a product of a society steeped in caste hierarchies. This firsthand experience likely fueled his passion for social reform, + APioneering Voic untouchable community, Walangkar launched the Vital-Vidhwansak in 11888 (or 1889). This groundbreaking publication became the first monthly journal specifically directed towards untouchables. Recognizing the lack of a platform for the The Significance of the Vital-Vidhwansak: ‘© Content Tailored for the Untouchables: The journal addressed issues directly relevant to the untouchable community, such as: os Articles likely highlighted the injustices faced by untouchables, including forced labor, denial of and Economic Exploi basic rights, and social exclusion. ‘© Education and Upliftment: literacy and education, seen as crucial tools for social mobility and he journal might have encouraged empowerment, SE EN ntps:educationprovince.com/3-sociareforms-and-eformers-Inmodenind\a-prlims-pyas! anasi11124, 1:60 PM 4) Social Reforms and Reformers in Modem India (Prelims PYQs) - Education Province * Caste System Critique: The name *Vital-Vidhwansak" itself translates to "Destroyer of Brahmanical or Ceremonial Pollution, suggesting a challenge to the caste system's religious justifications ‘+ Empowering Communication: The journal provided a platform for untouchables to: ‘© Express Themselves: The journal might have published narratives and grievances of the untouchables, giving them a much-needed voice By addressing a common audience, the journal could have fostered a sense of unity and collective identity among the untouchables. + Jyotiba Phule, another prominent figure in the fight against caste discrimination, is not credited with publishing the Vital-Vidhwansak. However, he was a contemporary of Walangkar and a key figure in the social reform movement. ‘+ Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (Mahatma Gandhi) and Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, while both influential figures in Indian history, were not directly involved in the publication of the Vital-Vidhwansak. Gandhi's focus on non-violent resistance and Ambedkar's fight for the rights of Dalits (formerly untouchables) came later in the social reform movement, 2019 Prelims PYQs 1] Consider the following pairs: [2019] Movement/Organization Leader 1. All India Ant-Untouchability League Mahatma Gandhi 2. All India Kisan Sabha Swami Sahajanand Saraswati 3. Self-Respect Movement Naicker EV. Ramaswami Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched? a} only b) 1 and 2 only Zand 3 only d)1,2and3 > Show Answer ¥ Show Explanation 1. All India Anti-Untouchal ity League (Mahatma Gandhi): ntps:educationprovince.com/3}-sociareforms-and-eformers-In-medeninda-prlims-pyas! fabs EN a4si11124, 1:60 PM 4) Social Reforms and Reformers in Modem India (Prelims PYQs) - Education Province + Context: Mahatma Gandhi, known for his philosophy of non-violent resistance ( HEI7B, Satyagraha), believed that untouchability was a stain on Indian society. ‘+ Formation: In 1932, Gandhi established the All India Anti-Untouchability League (later renamed Harijan Sevak Sangh) to actively work towards eradicating this practice. © Approach: The League focused on social reform through: ing Awareness: Gandhi campaigned against untouchabilty, highlighting its injustice and urging upper-caste Hindus to treat everyone equally. ‘+ Uplifting the Untouchables: The League aimed to improve the living conditions and education of untouchables (later called Dalits), promoting their social and economic integration. 2. All India Kisan Sabha (Swami Sahajanand Saraswati): ‘+ Focus: Founded in 1936 by Swami Sahajanand Saraswati, the All India Kisan Sabha was a peasant movement. * Concerns: The movement addressed the concerns of Indian farmers, including ‘Land Inequality: The Sabha championed land reform, advocating for fairer distribution of land ownership and challenging the dominance of landlords. ‘+ Exploitation: The movement fought against exploitation of peasants by moneylenders and unfair taxation policies. © Significanc farmers and advocating for their rights, contributing to future land reform. movements in India he All India Kisan Sabha played a vital role in mobilizing 3. Self-Respect Movement (E. V. Ramaswami Naicker): + Region and Timeframe: E, V. Ramaswami Naicker, also known as Periyar, spearheaded the Self-Respect Movement in Tamil Nadu around 1925. Goals: The movement aimed at: + Caste Abolition: The movement fiercely challenged the caste system, particularly the dominance of Brahmins ‘+ Women's Rights: It advocated for social equality and empowerment of women, especially those from underprivileged castes. + Self Respect for All: The movement's core message emphasized self-respect for all individuals, regardless of their caste background, + Impact: The Self-Respect Movement had a significant influence in Tamil Nadu, promoting social reform and contributing to a more egalitarian ntps:educationprovince.com/3}-sociareforms-and-eformers-In-medeninda-prlims-pyas! fabs EN 34si11124, 1:60 PM 4) Social Reforms and Reformers in Modem India (Prelims PYQs) - Education Province society. 2016 Prelims PYQs 1 Satya Shodhak Samaj organised: [2016] a) A movement for upliftment of tribals in Bihar b) A temple-entry movement in Gujarat ©) An anti-caste movement in Maharashtra d) Peasant movement in Punjab > Show Answer ¥ Show Explanation The Plight of the Marginalized: + Caste System: In 19th century India, the caste system was a rigid social hierarchy that dictated a person's social standing, occupation, and even access to basic rights. ‘+ Dalits (Untouchables) faced extreme discrimination, social exclusion, and denial of basic human dignity. ‘© Women: Women, particularly from lower castes, were also subjected to \t the bottom of this hierarchy were Dalits, who severe social restrictions and lack of educational opportunities. Satyashodhak Samaj: A Beacon of Hepe Founded in 1873 by Jyotirao Phule, the Satyashodhak Samaj 3t these injustices. Here's how emerged as a powerful voice ag they challenged the status quo: + Ideology: The Samaj’s philosophy centered around reason and truth (Satya meaning truth, and "Shodhak” meaning seeker). They rejected the caste system's religious justifications and advocated for equality based on merit, not birth ‘+ Education: Jyotirao Phule is considered the father of Indian women's education. He and his wife Savitribai Phule opened the first school for girls, from lower castes in 1848, challenging societal norms and empowering women through education. ‘+ Anti-Caste Practices: The Samaj actively campaigned against discriminatory practices like untouchability and encouraged inter-dining = fabs EN to break down caste barriers, ntps:educationprovince.com/3}-sociareforms-and-eformers-In-medeninda-prlims-pyas! anasi11124, 1:60 PM 4) Social Reforms and Reformers in Modem India (Prelims PYQs) - Education Province Impact and Legacy: + Social Reform Spark: The Satyashodhak Samaj played a pivotal role in igniting the flame of social reform in Maharashtra and beyond. Their message resonated with other social reformers and inspired future movements fighting for equality ‘+ Empowering the Downtrodde: women by providing them with a platform to voice their grievances and he Samaj empowered Dalits and fight for their rights. ‘+ Long-Term Influence: Although the Samaj eventually disbanded in the 1930s, its legacy continues to inspire movements advocating for a more just and equitable Indian society. Other options: a) A movement for upliftment of tribals in Bihar (Adivasi Movement) oA sis: This term refers to the indigenous communities inhabiting India before the arrival of major civilizations. In Bihar, these communities faced marginalization and exploitation. oA si Movement: Multiple movements emerged in different parts of India advocating for the rights and upliftment of Adivasi communities These movements addressed issues like: ‘+ Land Rights: Tribals were often displaced from their ancestral lands due to development projects or encroachment by outsiders. The movement demanded secure land ownership for Adivasis. ‘+ Resource Rights: Adivasi communities traditionally relied on forest resources for their liviiiood. The movement fought for their right to manage and access forest resources sustainably. ‘+ Cultural Preservation: The Adivasi movement also promotes the preservation of their unique languages, traditions, and cultural heritage. b) A temple-entry movement in Guj ‘Temple Entry: Many temples in India historically denied entry to Dalits, reinforcing their social exclusion. ‘* Satyagraha: Mahatma Gandhi led several non-violent resistance ncluding temple entry for Dalits. Notably, the Vaikom Satyagraha (1924) in Kerala focused 5 EN movements (Satyagraha) demanding social reforms, ntps:educationprovince.com/3}-sociareforms-and-eformers-In-medeninda-prlims-pyas! snasi11124, 1:60 PM 4) Social Reforms and Reformers in Modem India (Prelims PYQs) - Education Province on temple entry rights for untouchables. There were similar movements in Gujarat as well a) jasant movement in Punjab (All India Kisan Sabha) ‘+ Agrarian Issues: In colonial India, farmers faced exploitation by landlords and unfair taxation policies. ‘+ All India Kisan Sabh: movement aimed to: + Land Reform: Advocate for fairer land distribution and reduce the power of landlords. ‘ounded in 1936, this communist-led peasant + Better Prices: Demand better prices for agricultural products ‘* Debt Relief: Help farmers burdened with debt from moneylenders, 2012 Prelims PYQs 1] Which of the following parties ‘were established by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar? [2012] 1. The Peasants and Workers Party of India 2. All India Scheduled Castes Federation 3. The Independent Labour Party Select the correct answer the codes given below. 3) 1&2 Only b) 2&3 Only 1&3 Only 1,283 > Show Answer ¥ Show Explanation 1. The Peasants and We Ambedkar) © Origins: Founded in 1947 by Tulsidas Jadhav and Keshavrao Jedhe in Maharashtra, the Peasants and Workers Party of India (WPI) focused on issues faced by peasants and laborers. ‘+ Possible Overlap with Ambedkar's Views: Dr. Ambedkar, a champion for social justice, might have shared some goals with the PWPI, such as improving the lives of the underprivileged. However, historical records don't show his direct involvement in the party's establishment. ntps:educationprovince.com/3}-sociareforms-and-eformers-In-medeninda-prlims-pyas! fabs EN en4si11124, 1:60 PM 4) Social Reforms and Reformers in Modem India (Prelims PYQs) - Education Province 2. All India Sched Castes Federation (SCF): A Voice for Dalits ‘+ Founded by Ambedkar in 1942: The SCF emerged as a crucial platform for the Dalit community (formerly untouchables). ‘© Addressing Dalit Issues: The SCF aimed to: ‘= Political Representation: Advocate for increased political representation for Dalits, ensuring their voices were heard in government. ‘+ Social Upliftment: Campaign against social discrimination and work towards improving the socio-economic conditions of Dalits. This included promoting education and economic opportunities ‘Later Transformation: In 1956, the SCF merged with other parties to form the Republican Party of India (RPI), which continues to advocate for Dalit rights and social justice. rty (ILP): Champiening Workers + Established by Ambedkar in 1936: The ILP focused on protecting the rights of laborers in India, particularly those belonging to marginalized communities ‘+ Focus on the Working Class: The ILP aimed to ‘+ Improve Working Conditions: Advocate for better wages, working conditions, and social security measures for laborers ‘+ Dismantle Caste Barriers: Challenge the caste system, which often restricted job opportunities and perpetuated discrimination in the workplace ‘+ Limited Life Span: The ILP merged with the Congress Socialist Party in 11942, but its legacy influenced future movements for workers’ rights in India, 2] Which of the following statements is / are correct regarding Brahmo Samaj? [2012] 1, It opposed idolatry 2. It denied the need for a priestly class for interpreting the religious texts. 3. t popularized the doctrine that the Vedas are infallible Select the correct answer: a} 1 Only b) 1&2 Only 93 Only 6) 12, &3 a fabs EN ntps:educationprovince.com/3}-sociareforms-and-eformers-In-medeninda-prlims-pyas! 74si11124, 1:60 PM 4) Social Reforms and Reformers in Modem India (Prelims PYQs) - Education Province > Show Answer ¥ Show Explanation Unveiling the Brahmo Samaj: A Beacon of Reform The Brahmo Samaj, a pivotal force in 19th-century India, played a significant role in shaping the nation’s social and reli landscape. Let's delve deeper into the statements about Brahmo ‘Samaj and understand its core principl 1. Opposed Idolatry (True): ‘+ Challenge to Tradition: Traditional Hinduism emphasizes idol worship as a way to connect with deities. The Brahmo Samaj rejected this practice, advocating for a monotheistic belief in one formless, eternal God. ‘© Focus on the Divi hey emphasized a more spiritual and direct connection with the divine, encouraging introspection and personal prayer. 2. Denied the Need for a Priestly Class (True): ‘Breaking Hierarchies: The Brahmo Samaj challenged the authority of the Brahmin caste, the priestly class traditionally responsible for interpreting religious texts and conducting rituals ‘+ Individual Interpretation: They believed that individuals could interpret scriptures like the Upanishads directly, emphasizing reason and logic over blind faith in established interpretations 3, Popularized the Doctrine of infallible Vedas (False): ‘© Questioning Tradition: Unlike many Hindu schools of thought, the Brahmo Samaj did not consider the Vedas, the ancient Hindu scriptures, to be infallible. ‘+ Open to Reason: They believed that religious truths should be open to critical examination and reinterpretation based on reason and contemporary understanding, Impact of the Brahmo Samaj: The Brahmo Samaj, though not a ‘mass movement, had a far-reaching impact: fabs EN ntps:educationprovince.com/3}-sociareforms-and-eformers-In-medeninda-prlims-pyas! anasiti24, 1:50 Pet 4) Sovial Reforms and Reformers in Modem India (Prelims PYQs)- Education Province + Social Reform inspiration: it inspired other reform movements in India, including those advocating for women’s education and widow remarriage. ‘+ Nationalist Consciousness: The movement's emphasis on reason and individual liberty contributed to the rise of Indian nationalism, ‘¢ Modern Hinduism: The Brahmo Samaj indirectly influenced reform movements within Hinduism, leading to a more rational and inclusive approach to the faith. 1. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar founded the Bethune School at Calcutta with ‘the main aim of encouraging education for women, 2. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay was the first graduate of the Calcutta University, 3. Keshav Chandra Sen's campaign against Sati led to the enactment of a law +o ban Sati by the then Governor General ‘Which of the statements is/are correct? a} Vonly b) Tand 2 Q2and3 d)1,2and3 > Show Answer ¥ Show Explanation ‘+ Statement 3 regarding Keshav Chandra Sen and Sati: This information needs correction. Raja Ram Mohan Roy, a pioneering social reformer, spearheaded the campaign against Sati. His efforts, along with others’ culminated in the Bengal Regulation Act of 1829, enacted by Governor- General William Bentick, which outlawed the practice of Sati ‘+ Statement 2 and Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay: The claim about Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay being the first graduate is incorrect. Historical records show Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and Gattunath Bose were actually the first graduates of Calcutta University on January 30, 1858, ‘+ Statement 1 and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasag: Vidyasagar's association with Bethune School remain accurate. JED he details about Bethune established the school in 1849 with the goal of promoting women’s education. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, a champion for women's education, was also involved with the Bethune School. a fabs EN ntps:educationprovince.com/3}-sociareforms-and-eformers-In-medeninda-prlims-pyas! onasi11124, 1:60 PM 4) Social Reforms and Reformers in Modem India (Prelims PYQs) - Education Province Considering these corrections, option (b) ~ statements 1 and 2 - ‘emerges as the most accurate answer, even though statement 2 ut Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay being the first graduate is not entirely tr 4] Consider the follos |. Arya Samaj was founded in 1835. Il Lala Lajpat Rai opposed the appeal of Arya Samaj to the authority of Vedas in support of its social reform programmes. Ill Under Keshab Chandra Sen, the Brahmo Samaj campaigned for women’s education. IV, Vinoba Bhave founded the Sarvodaya Samaj to work among refugees. Which of these statements are correct? a) Land I by and Olland iv ¢) land iV > Show Answer ¥ Show Explanation Statement Breakdown: ‘1 Arya Samaj was founded i * Correct Foun 1835. (False) 1g Year: The Arya Samaj was actually founded in 1875 by Swami Dayanand Saraswati Il. Lala Lajpat Rai opposed the appeal of Arya Samaj to the authority ‘of Vedas in support of its social reform programmes. (False) + Lala Lajpat Rai's Role: Lala Lajpat Rai was a prominent leader within the Arya Samaj, and he generally supported its use of the Vedas to justify and promote social reforms. The Vedas, ancient Hindu scriptures, were seen as a source of social and moral values that could be used to advocate for change. «IIL Under Keshab Chandra Sen, the Brahmo Samaj campaigned for women’s education. (True) ‘+ Keshab Chandra Sen and Women's Education: Keshav Chandra Sen, a key figure in the Brahmo Samaj during the 19th century, actively championed women’s education. The Brahmo Samaj believed that education was crucial for social progress and women’s empowerment. They established schools for girls and challenged the traditional societal neglect of female education. ntps:educationprovince.com/3}-sociareforms-and-eformers-In-medeninda-prlims-pyas! fabs EN 1014siti24, 1:50 Pet 4) Sovial Reforms and Reformers in Modem India (Prelims PYQs)- Education Province + IV. Vinoba Bhave founded the Sarvodaya Samaj to work among refugees. (True) ‘+ Vinoba Bhave and Sarvodaya Samaj: Vinoba Bhave established the Sarvodaya Samaj movement in the mid-20th century. Inspired by Gandhian principles, the movement focused on non-violent social change and upliftment of the underprivileged. While addressing various social issues, Sarvodaya Samaj also played a role in helping refugees integrate and rebuild their lives. Significance of These Movements: These reform movements, though distinct in their approaches, played a pivotal role in shaping modern Ine + Arya Samaj: Focused on reviving Vedic ideals, promoting social reforms. like opposing child marriage and sati, and advocating for women’s education. ‘© Brahmo Samaj: Emphasized monotheism, individual interpretation of scriptures, and social reforms like women's education and widow remarriage. +* Sarvedaya Samaj: Promoted Gandhian principles of non-violence, community development, and social justice, addressing issues like poverty and displacement. 5] The word Adivasi was used for the first time to refer to the people by [1995] a) Mahatma Gandhi ) Thakkar Bappa ©) Jyotiba Phule d) BR. Ambedkar > Show Answer ¥ Show Explanation «Thakkar Bappa's Role: As mentioned earlier, Thakkar Bappa, a social reformer associated with Mahatma Gandhi, is widely credited with coining the term “Adivasi” in the 1930s. He used it to refer to the inhabitants of forested areas who were traditionally outside the caste system. ‘+ Meaning and Intent: “Adivasi” is a Sanskrit term derived from "adi" (beginning, origin) and “vasi” (dweller). Thakkar Bappa likely intended to emphasize the indigenous nature of these communities, highlighting their long history in India 5 EN ntps:educationprovince.com/3}-sociareforms-and-eformers-In-medeninda-prlims-pyas! nesiti24, 1:50 Pet 4) Sovial Reforms and Reformers in Modem India (Prelims PYQs)- Education Province + The Debate Around “Adivasi”: While widely used, the term "Adivasi is hot without its critics. Some indigenous communities prefer to be identified by their specific tribal names, such as Gond, Bhil, or Munda, which carry their unique cultural heritage. ‘+ Additionally, the term “tribe" itself has colonial connotations, and some argue that it doesn't accurately represent the complex social structures of these communities. Alternative Terminology: ‘© Scheduled Tribes: The Indian government officially categorizes these communities as “Scheduled Tribes" (STs), affording them certain constitutional protections and affirmative action programs. # Indigenous People: There's growing advocacy to recognize these communities as “indigenous people,” acknowledging their pre-colonial presence and distinct cultural identities. ‘The Importance of Terminology: The choice of terminology reflects their self-perception, historical experiences, and thei relationship wit the Indian state. Here's why the other options are not correct: ‘+ a) Mahatma Gandhi: While Gandhi was a prominent leader who championed social justice, the term Adivasi was coined earlier in the 1930s, + ©) Jyotiba Phule: Jyotirao Phule, a social reformer, focused on issues ‘faced by Dalits (formerly untouchables) and women's rights, The term Adivasi refers specifically to indigenous communities. +d) B.R. Ambedkar: Similar to Phule, Dr. BR. Ambedkar dedicated his work to uplifting Dalits. The term Adivasi originated before Ambedkar's rise to prominence. 6] Which one of the following pairs is not correctly matched? [1995] 2} Jamnalal Bajaj - Satyagraha Ashram at Wardha ') Dadabhai Naoroji- Bombay Association ©) Lala Lajpat Rai — National School at Lahore d) Bal Gangadhar Tilak ~ Satya Shodhak Sabha > Show Answer SE EN ntps:educationprovince.com/3}-sociareforms-and-eformers-In-medeninda-prlims-pyas! yaasi11124, 1:60 PM 4) Social Reforms and Reformers in Modem India (Prelims PYQs) - Education Province ¥ Show Explanation a) Jamnalal Bajaj - Satya: deeply involved in Gandhi's constructive programs. He supported the establishment of the Satyagraha Ashram at Wardha, which was founded by Gandhi in 1936. The ashram served as a center for Gandhian principles of self-reliance, simplicity, and non-violence, and it became an important hub for social and political activities during the freedom struggle. Therefore, pair a is correctly matched. b) Dadabhai Naoroji - Bombay Association: Dadabhai Naoroji was a prominent figure in the Indian National Congress and a leading voice for Indian self-rule. However, he was not directly associated with the Bombay Association. The Bombay Asso the earl jon was one of st pi ical organizations formed by Indian nationalists in Bombay in 1852. It advocated for Indian representation in government and played a significant role in fostering political awareness and activism among Indian: ctly matched. Bombay. Therefore, pair b ©) Lala Lajpat Rai - National School at Lahore: Lala Lajpat Rai, popularly known as Punjab Kesari, was a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement. He was actively involved in various med at promoting Indian nati ism. One of his contributions was the establishment of the National School at Lahore, which aimed to provide modern education to Indian youth. Therefore, pair cis correctly matched. d) Bal Gangadhar Tilak - Satya Shedhak Sabha: Bal Gangadhar Tilak, also known as Lokmanya Tilak, was a prominent ni jionalist leader and social reformer during the Indian independence movement. While Tilak was asso« fed with various movements and organizations, i uding the Indian National Congress and the Home Rule Movement, he was not associated with the Satya Shodhak ‘Sabha. The Satya Shodhak Sabha was founded by Jyotirao Phule in Maharashtra in 1873. It aimed at social reform, particularly ies prevalent in Indian society. Therefore, pair d is not correctly matched. addressing caste discrimination and social inequali fais EN ntps:educationprovince.com/3}-sociareforms-and-eformers-In-medeninda-prlims-pyas! 134