Question

Study the picture given here and answer the following questions:

1. What was symbolised by the Charkha and Khadi in the National Movement?
2. What is meant by Swadeshi? Why did Gandhiji lay emphasis on Swadeshi?
3. State how was the concept of Swadeshi promoted during the Non-Cooperation Movement.

Answer 1

1. The Charkha and Khadi during the national movement symbolised the importance of manual labour. The goal was to improve the social and economic conditions of the people. By promoting the use of Khadi (hand-spun cloth), it aimed to reduce dependence on British goods and weaken their control over India’s economy.
2. Swadeshi means making and using necessary items within your own country without relying on imported goods. Gandhiji believed that using Swadeshi goods would make India self-sufficient and reduce dependence on foreign products. He was not in favour of large industries employing few workers but preferred small-scale industries that would give jobs to millions of people. Gandhiji wanted villages to become self-reliant, so he promoted the use of Swadeshi goods to stop dependence on foreign imports.
3. 1. Popularisation of Swadeshi and Khadi by reviving hand-spinning and hand-weaving.
   2. Establishment of national schools and colleges and private arbitration courts known as panchayats all over India.
   3. Development of unity between Hindus and Muslims.
   4. Removal of untouchability and other measures for Harijan welfare.
   5. Emancipation and upliftment of women.