Subject: Modern History

Answer:

Mahatma Gandhi's leadership during India's freedom struggle was characterized by his emphasis on constructive programmes that aimed at social reform, economic self-reliance, and moral regeneration alongside political resistance. These programmes were integral to both the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22) and the Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-34).

Constructive Programmes during Non-Cooperation Movement

Social Reform and Education:

• Establishment of National Educational Institutions like Gujarat Vidyapith and Jamia Millia Islamia to promote indigenous education and nationalist values.
• Launch of programs for upliftment of untouchables and promotion of Hindu-Muslim unity through interfaith dialogues.

Economic Self-Reliance:

• Revival of Khadi and Charkha movement to promote economic independence and rural employment.
• Formation of All India Spinners Association (1925) to organize production and distribution of khadi.
• Boycott of foreign goods and promotion of Swadeshi industries to strengthen domestic economy.

Rural Reconstruction:

• Implementation of village sanitation programs and basic hygiene awareness campaigns.
• Promotion of cottage industries and village swaraj concept for rural self-sufficiency.

Constructive Programmes during Civil Disobedience Movement

Social Empowerment:

• Active participation of women through Hinduthan Association and Women's Indian Association.
• Launch of Temple Entry Movement in 1932 to fight against untouchability.
• Establishment of Harijan Sevak Sangh for upliftment of depressed classes.

Economic Initiatives:

• Promotion of salt production through Salt Satyagraha to challenge British monopoly.
• Strengthening of cooperative movement and rural credit societies.
• Revival of traditional handicrafts and indigenous industries.

Cultural Renaissance:

• Emphasis on use of mother tongue in education and public discourse.
• Promotion of communal harmony through inter-faith prayer meetings.
• Revival of traditional art forms and cultural practices.

These constructive programmes were significant as they laid the foundation for Swaraj through social reform and economic self-reliance. The legacy of these programmes continues to influence modern India's development paradigm through initiatives like Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, emphasizing the relevance of Gandhian principles in contemporary nation-building.