With reference to Swadeshi Movement, consider the following statements : 1. It contributed to the revival of the indigenous artisan crafts and industries. 2. The National Council of Education was established as a part of Swadeshi Movement. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2 ✓ UPSC's answer
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Why the answer is (c)
• The Swadeshi Movement (1905–08), sparked by the partition of Bengal, promoted Indian goods and boycott of British products.
• Statement 1 is correct: it revived handloom weaving, soap, match and tannery industries and spawned enterprises such as Bengal Chemicals and the Bengal National Bank.
• Statement 2 is correct: the National Council of Education (1906) was set up to provide 'national education' outside government control, leading to the Bengal National College with Aurobindo as principal.
• Hence both 1 and 2, option (c).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 only
- Statement 2 is also correct: the NCE was part of Swadeshi.
- (b) 2 only
- Statement 1 is also correct: indigenous crafts revived.
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
- Both statements are correct.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2019, held on 2 June 2019. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.