Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The quote encapsulates the fervent atmosphere surrounding the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922), launched by Mahatma Gandhi. Following the disillusionment caused by the limited gains of the Indian National Congress’s moderate approach and the Rowlatt Act of 1919, Gandhi proposed a new strategy of non-violent resistance. This movement, marked by boycotts, protests, and a call for *Swaraj* (self-rule), ignited a wave of nationalistic fervor across India. The year 1921, in particular, witnessed an unprecedented surge in popular participation, creating a sense of liberation and optimism amongst Congress workers and the broader populace.
The Context: Rise of Gandhian Nationalism
The aftermath of World War I and the broken promises of self-governance fueled discontent among Indians. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre (1919) and the subsequent imposition of the Rowlatt Act, allowing for arbitrary arrests and detention, further radicalized the population. Gandhi’s emergence as a national leader, advocating *Satyagraha* (truth force) and *Ahimsa* (non-violence), provided a new moral and political framework for the nationalist struggle.
Factors Contributing to the ‘Intoxication’
- Gandhi’s Charisma and Leadership: Gandhi’s simple lifestyle, his identification with the masses, and his powerful oratory skills inspired millions. He presented a vision of a free India that resonated with people from all walks of life.
- Ideology of Self-Reliance (*Swadeshi*): The movement promoted the use of Indian goods and the boycott of foreign products, fostering a sense of economic self-reliance and national pride. This resonated particularly with the Swadeshi movement’s earlier ideals.
- Mass Participation: Unlike previous movements largely confined to the educated elite, the Non-Cooperation Movement involved peasants, workers, students, and women in unprecedented numbers. This broad-based participation created a sense of collective agency and empowerment.
- Initial Successes: The boycott of foreign goods led to a significant decline in their imports. Schools and colleges were boycotted, and national educational institutions were established. The movement also witnessed widespread civil disobedience, including the refusal to pay taxes.
- Chauri Chaura Incident (1922): While ultimately leading to the suspension of the movement, the initial fervor and widespread participation before Chauri Chaura contributed to the feeling of ‘intoxication’. The sheer scale of the movement was exhilarating.
The Programme of 1921 and its Impact
The Congress programme of 1921 included:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Boycott of Foreign Goods | Promoting *Swadeshi* and reducing economic dependence on Britain. |
| Non-Cooperation with the Government | Resignation from government jobs, refusal to pay taxes, and boycott of government institutions. |
| Promotion of *Khadi* | Encouraging the use of hand-spun cloth as a symbol of self-reliance. |
| Establishment of National Schools and Colleges | Providing alternative educational institutions based on nationalistic principles. |
The Waning of the ‘Intoxication’
The ‘intoxication’ was short-lived. The Chauri Chaura incident, where a police station was burned down, led Gandhi to suspend the movement, fearing it was spiraling out of control. This decision, while strategically motivated, disillusioned many activists and dampened the initial enthusiasm. Internal divisions within the Congress and the limitations of non-violent resistance also contributed to the movement’s decline.
Conclusion
The year 1921 represented a pivotal moment in the Indian nationalist movement. The Non-Cooperation Movement, fueled by Gandhi’s leadership and a widespread desire for *Swaraj*, created a unique atmosphere of optimism and empowerment. While the movement was ultimately suspended, it laid the groundwork for future struggles and demonstrated the potential of mass mobilization. The ‘intoxication’ of 1921, though fleeting, left an indelible mark on the Indian psyche and propelled the nation closer to independence.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.