UPSC Prelims 2025 Analysis

Explanation

This question tests your knowledge of the objectives and phased strategy of the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920) led by the Indian National Congress.

✅ Statement I: Correct

• The Congress declared in the Nagpur session (1920) that attaining 'Swaraj' by all legitimate and peaceful means was its objective.

❌ Statement II: Incorrect

• While the Non-Cooperation Movement did envision a phased approach, the conditions mentioned are not entirely accurate. Gandhi did promise Swaraj in one year if the movement was followed sincerely. Civil disobedience and non-payment of taxes were considered, but not necessarily only if 'Swaraj' didn't come within a year and only if the government resorted to repression. Gandhi kept the discretion to start civil disobedience in his hands.

Answer: A

Explanation

The Non-Cooperation Programme aimed to resist British rule through boycott and self-reliance, emphasizing non-violence and alternative institutions.

✅ Statement I is correct:

• Boycott of law courts and foreign cloth was a key part of the movement.

✅ Statement II is correct:

• Strict non-violence was insisted upon by Gandhi during the movement.

❌ Statement III is incorrect:

• The programme required surrendering British titles and honours, not retaining them.

✅ Statement IV is correct:

• Setting up Panchayats to settle disputes locally was encouraged.

So, the correct answer is: C (Only three)

Explanation

Mahatma Gandhi made the upliftment of Harijans a central goal after opposing separate electorates for the Depressed Classes in the British Communal Award.

After the Poona Pact (1932), signed with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Gandhi intensified efforts to eradicate untouchability, forming the Harijan Sevak Sangh and launching the 'Harijan' journal.

Explanation

Raja Ram Mohan Roy was a reformer who respected Indian traditions but promoted rational thinking and social equality.

✅ Statement I is correct:

• He respected traditional Eastern philosophies like Vedanta and sought their reform.

✅ Statement II is correct:

• He advocated for rationalism, scientific thinking, and equality of all men and women.

So, the correct answer is: C

Explanation

The Self-Respect Movement, started in 1925, aimed to dismantle caste hierarchies and promote social equality, especially for non-Brahmin communities in Tamil Nadu.

He founded the Self-Respect Movement to fight caste oppression and promote rationalism and equality.

Explanation

After the Chauri Chaura incident in 1922, many people were arrested and faced severe punishment, including death sentences. Legal intervention helped reduce this.

✅ B. Madan Mohan Malaviya and Krishna Kant – Correct

• Madan Mohan Malaviya and his son Krishna Kant provided legal defence to the accused.
• Their efforts led to major sentence reductions, saving many from execution.

Explanation

The phrase "Sedition has become my religion" was declared by Gandhiji during the Salt Satyagraha, symbolizing his open defiance of British authority through non-violent means.

✅ B. Publicly violating Salt Law at Dandi – Correct

• Gandhi made this powerful statement during the Salt March (1930) after breaking the Salt Law at Dandi.

Explanation

Papaya, pineapple, and guava are all non-native fruits to India, originally from the Americas, and were introduced during European colonial expansion, particularly by the Portuguese.

✅ I. Papaya – Correct

• Native to Central America, introduced to India by the Portuguese in the 16th century.

✅ II. Pineapple – Correct

• Originates from South America, brought to India by Portuguese explorers.

✅ III. Guava – Correct

• Native to Central America, introduced to India by the Portuguese in the 17th century.