Topic: Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country.
1. The rising tide of popular agitations and the withdrawal of the British paramountcy sealed the fate of the princely order and they were soon absorbed in to the Indian Union. Discuss the role of Sardar Patel in this regard. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Easy
Reference: Chapter-1 – NCERT XII – Politics in India since Independence
Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2023 Secure timetable.
Key Demand of the question: To write about the process of integration of princely states in to the Union of India.
Directive word:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context of hundreds of princely states and humongous task in front of Sardar Patel.
Body:
In the first part, write about the popular pressure on the princely states for integration with India.
Next, mention as to the tactics used by Sardar Patel to achieve integration of majority of princely states.
Next, throw light on how Junagadh, Hyderabad and Kashmir resisted overtures to join India. Write in detail the methods used to integrate them.
Conclusion:
Summarise the contributions of Sardar Patel towards preserving the unity and territorial integrity of India.
