Q.79 Discuss the contribution of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad to pre- and post-independent India. POST-INDEPENDENCE INDIA (UPSC CSE 2013) (200 words/10 marks)

Answer:

INTRODUCTION:

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was a pivotal figure in pre- and post-independent India and made contributions in a wide range of areas from national integration to the freedom movement. He participated in the Indian Independence Movement as a leader of the Indian National Congress and in the post Independent India he became the first minister of education under government of India.

THE BODY:

Azad gained a lot of popularity as the youngest congressman. The Gandhian approach is sole to his philosophies as kalam Azad was a true supporter of Mahatma Gandhi. In 1992, he was awarded the Bharat Ratna for his unselfish service.

Contribution to Pre-Independent India

• • Khilafat movement: He acted as an active leader in Khilafat Movement and worked along leaders as Mahatma Gandhi, Vallabh Bhai Patel and Jawahar Lal Nehru. He believed it was every Muslim’s religious duty to participate in politics against oppressors and colonists.
  • Non-cooperation movement: He worked to organise Non-Cooperation Movement and participated actively in several agitations and worked under the guidance of Gandhi and his principles.
  • Dharasana Satyagraha: He was one of main organisers of the Dharasana Satyagraha in 1931 and emerged as one of the most important national leaders of the time.
  • Quit India Movement: He played a significant role in the Quit India Movement by meeting a large number of people in rallies and led agitations and protests against colonial government.
  • Election campaign: During the first general election, he organized the election campaigns and rallies, raised funds, and selected candidates for election.
  • Congress President: He served as INC president in 1923 and 1940-1945 and promoted Hindu- Muslim cooperation.
  • Cabinet mission: He headed the Constituent Assembly elections within Congress as well as led the negotiations with the British Cabinet mission to discuss the terms of independence.
  • Opposed partition: He opposed the idea of partition based on religion and criticised Jinnah over Two Nation theory and believed that Hindu and Muslims can live together in Independent India. He also worked for Hindu-Muslim unity through the Al-Hilal newspaper.
  • Journalism and literary works: He published works critical of British Raj for the cause of Indian nationalism. In 1912, he started publishing the Urdu weekly newspaper Al-Hilal in Calcutta where he emphasized the harsh treatment of Indians by the British.

Contribution to Post-Independent India

• • Minister of Education: He was the first Union Minister of education. Under his tenure, a number of measures were undertaken to promote primary and secondary education, scientific education, establishment of universities and promotion of avenues of research and higher studies.
  • Member of Constitution assembly: He was a member of constituent assembly and helped in shaping the Constitution of India.
  • Contribution to Research: He held portfolios of Natural resources and scientific research. He played a pivotal role in foundation of CSIR and scientific research laboratories in India.
  • Promotion of Culture and Heritage: Azad set up institutions like Sahitya Akademi, Lalit Kala Akademi, and Sangeet Natak Akademi to preserve and promote India’s cultural heritage.

CONCLUSION:

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad played significant role in providing base to the nation by his prominent work during pre-independence India was by providing leadership and working for national integration and major works in educational field in post independent India. His efforts continue to inspire future generations to embrace the values of inclusivity, secularism, and togetherness.