Assertion (A): The basic weakness of the early nationalist movement lay in its narrow social base. Reason (R): It fought for the narrow interests of the social groups which joined it.

Assertion A is true because the early nationalist movement, led by the Moderates from 1885 to 1905, was largely confined to the educated middle class, professionals, and the urban elite. It had not yet evolved into a mass movement involving the peasantry or the working class. Reason R is false because although the social base was narrow, the early nationalists did not fight only for their own narrow interests. They advocated for the interests of the entire Indian nation. They demanded the reduction of land revenue for farmers, the abolition of the salt tax, the protection of Indian industries, and an end to the economic drain of India. Their political and economic critiques were aimed at national welfare rather than just the benefit of the educated classes who led the movement. Therefore, while the movement lacked broad participation, its goals were national in scope.