Topic: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues.
1. Even though their political demands were moderate, their economic demands were radical in nature. Elucidate with respect to the moderate phase of Indian National Congress. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Easy
Reference: Chapter 7 – India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipin Chandra.
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 as mentioned in Mission-2022 Secure timetable.
Key Demand of the question:
To clearly contrast on the nature of political and economic demands of the Moderates during the initial phase of Congress.
Directive word:
Elucidate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin your answer by writing about Economic Critique of Colonialism.
Body:
Mention the overall approach of the moderates in responding to the reforms brought by the British wherein for the Political reforms, the moderates were seeking political changes in such a way as to not instigate or make the British insecure about their control on India and resorted to prayers and petitions.
However for the Economic reforms, the moderates were more vocal through critiques such as Drain Theory, using of Indian raw materials for British Industries, demand for preserving local Industries, scope for Indian control on the public purse, criticism of the official policies on tariff, trade, transport and taxation
Conclusion:
Conclude by summarising the impact of Economic Critique of Moderates.
