Subject: Modern History

Answer:

The 1920s marked a transformative period in India's freedom struggle when the vision of independence expanded beyond political freedom to encompass broader socio-economic objectives. This paradigm shift was influenced by global events like the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the rising tide of socialism worldwide.

New Economic Objectives

• Economic Self-Reliance: The Swadeshi Movement gained renewed momentum with leaders like C.R. Das advocating for economic independence through indigenous industrialization and boycott of foreign goods.

• Workers' Rights: Formation of the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) in 1920 marked the beginning of organized labor movements, demanding better working conditions and fair wages.

• Peasant Movements: The emergence of Kisan Sabhas and All India Kisan Sabha (1936) highlighted the agrarian issues and the need for land reforms.

Social Reform Agenda

• Abolition of Untouchability: Gandhiji's Harijan Movement and Dr. Ambedkar's Temple Entry Movement brought social equality to the forefront of the independence struggle.

• Women's Empowerment: Formation of the All India Women's Conference (1927) emphasized women's education, political rights, and social reforms.

• Educational Reform: Jamia Millia Islamia (1920) and other national institutions promoted education aligned with nationalist ideals.

Cultural Renaissance

• Linguistic Identity: The demand for linguistic provinces and protection of regional languages gained prominence through movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement.

• Cultural Awakening: Tagore's Visva Bharati (1921) promoted Indian cultural values while embracing universal brotherhood.

Political Evolution

• Complete Independence: The Purna Swaraj Resolution (1929) replaced the earlier demand for dominion status with complete independence.

• Socialist Ideas: Formation of the Congress Socialist Party (1934) under leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan introduced socialist principles into the mainstream freedom movement.

The reformulated objectives of the 1920s created a comprehensive vision of independence that went beyond political freedom. Today, these objectives continue to influence modern India's policies through initiatives like Make in India, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and Social Justice Programs, reflecting the enduring relevance of the multifaceted vision of independence developed during this crucial period.