Question

Explain the following statement with reason.

The contribution of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaikwad of Baroda state towards social reforms is significant.

Answer 1

1. Maharaja Sayajirao of Baroda State had adopted progressive policies.
2. He provided free schooling and free hostels for the students from the untouchable-tribal class.
3.  He also encouraged women’s education and also opened a centre for physical training of women.
4. He started various social programmes, such as, community feasts for all castes (‘sahabhojan’), grampanchayat in every village, literate grampanchayat members, library in every village, compulsory primary education, compulsory physical training for boys and girls, ban on child marriage, widow remarriage, etc.
5. He also provided courses for students from farmer families based on agro-industries.
6. He passed a resolution for assuring a share in the ancestral property to married as well as widowed women.