UPSC 2016 Modern History Questions with Answers

Explanation

On 24 September 1873, Jotirao Govindrao Phule formed Satyashodhak Samaj to focus on the rights of depressed groups such as women, the Shudra, and the Dalit in Maharashtra. The Satyashodhak Samaj opposed idolatry and the caste system, advocating for reason and equality. It rejected the need for priests and promoted simple religious practices for all. The group’s viewpoints were voiced through the Deenbandhu newspaper. Members included Muslims, Brahmins, and government officials, with financial support primarily from Phule’s Mali caste.

Explanation

Option (1) is incorrect: The Calcutta Unitarian Committee (1823) was founded by Rammohan Roy, Dwarkanath Tagore, and William Adam to promote Unitarian beliefs and social reforms, but Keshab Chandra Sen was not involved in its formation.

Option (2) is correct: The Tabernacle of New Dispensation (1881) was established by Keshab Chandra Sen as part of his Nava Vidhan (New Dispensation) movement, which aimed to integrate the teachings of Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, and other religions into a universal faith. It reflected his belief in religious harmony and spiritual unity

Option (3) is correct: Indian Reform Association (1870), focusing on social reforms such as women’s rights, education, widow remarriage, and temperance (restrictions on alcohol consumption). The association played a crucial role in advocating progressive changes in Indian society.

Explanation

Option (a) is incorrect: Morley-Minto Reforms, 1909 introduced separate electorates on the basis of religion, thus introducing a system of communal representation. This was not the reason for the Congress split in 1907.

Option (b) is correct: There were ideological differences between the Moderates and Extremists over the method of achieving self-rule, leadership struggles, and the evolving political climate under British rule. The Surat split was caused because of Extremists’ lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Government’.

Option (c) is incorrect: Formation of Muslim League in 1906 at Dhaka was not the reason for Congress split in 1907.

Option (d) is incorrect: Aurobindo Ghosh’s inability to be elected as the President of the Indian National Congress was not a reason for the Surat Split.

Explanation

The ‘Swadeshi’ and ‘Boycott’ was a reaction to the British decision to partition Bengal, calling for the boycott of British goods and the promotion of indigenous industries. It played a significant role in uniting Indians against colonial rule and sparked a broader nationalistic awakening.

Explanation

Montague-Chelmsford Proposals had the scheme of constitutional reforms, known as the Montagu-Chelmsford (or Mont-Ford) Reforms, which led to the enactment of the Government of India Act of 1919. It introduced diarchy (rule of two individuals/parties) at the provincial government level. The diarchy was implemented in eight provinces: Assam, Bengal, Bihar and Orissa, Central Provinces, United Provinces, Bombay, Madras and Punjab.