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9 questions · self-marked practice — reveal the answer and mark yourself.

Question 14 Marks
When Gandhi got the wholehearted support of the lawyers, he said, "The battle of Champaran is won‟. What was the essence behind his statement?
Answer
  • Gandhi made lawyers realize their duty toward the peasants
  • it would be shameful desertion on their part if they left the peasants if Gandhi was arrested
  • lawyers understood, approached Gandhi, and said they would accompany him to jail
  • getting the support of educated Indians like lawyers, Gandhi gained confidence that now they would win against the British.
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Question 24 Marks
What can be inferred from Rajendra Prasad’s recorded upshot of the lawyer consultations, at Motihari?

[Reference - The senior lawyer replied, they had come to advise and help him; if he went to jail there would be nobody to advise and they would go home. What about the injustice to the sharecroppers, Gandhi demanded.]
(Indigo)
Answer
  • That Gandhi's commitment to the cause of the peasants, despite being a stranger to the region, was exemplary and motivated the lawyers to continue their support.
  • Highlights the idea that the lawyers were conscious of the potential shame they would bring upon themselves if they deserted the peasants in their time of need.
  • Suggests that Gandhi's moral authority and courage had a significant impact on those around him and helped to inspire a sense of purpose and conviction in their own efforts to fight for justice and freedom.
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Question 34 Marks
Why did Gandhiji consider freedom from fear more important than legal justice for the poor peasants of Champaran?
Answer
  • Exploitation of indigo farmers by British Landlords.
  • Farmers resorted to legal help to fight cases against the landlords.
  • Not too many got encouraging results and also, this could only get them short-term benefits.
  • Farmers were terrorized and crushed under exploitation by landlords.
  • Gandhiji-practical and farsighted approach-felt that if the downtrodden farmers could be released from fear, rest everything would fall into place.
  • Started an exercise in empowering the farmers and giving them lessons in courage through his own example.
  • Dealt with all the clever moves of the Britishers fearlessly and boldly without getting intimidated by their orders.
  • Felt that lessons in courage would remain with the farmers all their lives and would never be taken advantage of/ exploited.
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Question 44 Marks
How did Gandhiji succeed in getting justice for the Indigo sharecroppers?
Answer
  • Gandhiji stayed at Muzaffarpur where he met the lawyers and concluded that fighting through courts was not going to solve the problem of the poor sharecroppers of Champaran.
  • He declared that the real relief for them was to be free from fear. With this intention, he arrived in Champaran and contacted the Secretary of the British Landlord’s association. The Secretary refused to provide him with any information.
  • After this, Gandhiji met the Commissioner of the Tirhut division who served a notice on him to immediately leave Tirhut. Gandhiji accepted the notice by signing it and wrote on it that he would not obey the order.
  • He was even willing to court arrest for the cause of the peasants.
  • After four rounds of talks with the Governor, an official commission of inquiry was appointed in which Gandhiji was made the sole representative of the peasants.
  • Through this commission, Gandhiji succeeded in getting 25% of the compensation award for poor sharecroppers from the British landowners.
  • The peasants realized that they had rights and defenders. They learnt courage.
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Question 54 Marks
Biographies include features of non-fiction texts – factual information and different text structures such as description, sequence, comparison, cause and effect, or problem and solution. Examine Indigo in the light of this statement, in about 120-150 words.
Answer
Introduction:

"Indigo" can be examined as an excerpt of a biography, which means it encompasses features of both fiction and non-fiction texts. As a biography, it presents factual information about historical events and real-life characters, while also employing various text structures to engage the reader. Examination:

  1. Factual Information:
    a) Historical Context: The chapter provides factual information about the historical backdrop of the Champaran region and the oppressive indigo cultivation system during the British colonial era.
    b) Real-Life Characters: It introduces us to actual historical figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Rajkumar Shukla, who played essential roles in the Champaran Movement.

  2. Text Structures:
    a) Description: The author describes the plight of the peasants in the Champaran villages, painting a vivid picture of their suffering under the indigo planters.
    b) Cause and Effect: The chapter explores the cause-and-effect relationship of Gandhi's decision to support the peasants, and how it led to the organization of the Champaran Civil Disobedience Movement.
Conclusion:
"Indigo" incorporates features of a non-fiction text by presenting factual information and using text structures like description and cause and effect to present a well-rounded account of historical events and characters. It effectively combines narrative elements with informational content, making it a compelling excerpt from a biography.
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Question 64 Marks
Imagine Gandhi was to deliver a speech to students in present-day India showing them the path to becoming responsible world leaders. Based on your understanding of Gandhi’s own leadership skills, write a speech, as Gandhi, addressing the students about the qualities that every leader and politician should nurture.
Dear students, you are all leaders of social change. I see many bright and enthusiastic faces that assure me that our future is in good hands. I have learnt from my own experience……………(continue)………….
Answer
Dear students,

You are all leaders of social change. I see many bright and enthusiastic faces that assure me that our future is in good hands. I have learned from my own experiences that true leadership is not about power or authority, but about service and compassion. As you step into the world as responsible individuals, I urge you to nurture certain qualities that will make you exemplary leaders and politicians.

First and foremost, always remember the power of truth and nonviolence. Embrace honesty and integrity in everything you do. Be fearless in standing up for what is right, even if it means going against the tide. Violence may seem like a quick solution, but it only breeds more hatred and suffering. Nonviolence requires strength and courage, and it can transform even the most difficult situations.

Secondly, never lose touch with your humility. As leaders, it is easy to be consumed by pride and ego. Stay grounded and always remember that you are serving the people. Listen to their voices and concerns, and be approachable. Understand that true leadership is about empowering others and lifting them up.

Thirdly, lead by example. Your actions will speak louder than your words. Be the change you wish to see in the world. Live a life of simplicity and practice what you preach. When people see your sincerity and dedication, they will be inspired to follow you.

Lastly, be inclusive and embrace diversity. Our country is a tapestry of cultures, religions, and languages. As leaders, it is your responsibility to ensure that every voice is heard, and every person is respected. Build bridges of understanding and unity.

My dear students, the path to becoming responsible world leaders may not always be easy, but with courage, determination, and the right values, you can leave a lasting impact on society. The world needs leaders who lead with their hearts and strive to make a positive difference. I have faith in each one of you to carry the torch of truth, nonviolence, humility, and inclusivity.

Let us work together to create a world that is just, compassionate, and harmonious. The future is yours to shape. I believe in you.

Thank you.
Yours sincerely,
Mahatma Gandhi
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Question 74 Marks
Let us assume it was Rajendra Prasad who informed Charles Freer Andrews of Gandhi’s decision and the reasons for other leaders’ support of him. Think creatively of how Andrews would have responded and pen down the discussion you think would have taken place between Rajendra Prasad and Andrews.
Answer
Rajendra Prasad: Charles, I have something important to share with you. Gandhi decided to lead the struggle in Champaran, and many other leaders are supporting him.

Charles Freer Andrews: Oh, that's intriguing! I can imagine that Gandhi's decision must have stirred quite a buzz. But why has he taken up this responsibility?

Rajendra Prasad: Well, Charles, Gandhi believes in the power of truth and nonviolence. He sees the oppression faced by the peasants in Champaran and feels compelled to bring about change. His compassion and sense of justice are the driving forces behind his decision.

Charles Freer Andrews: I see. Gandhi's commitment to truth and nonviolence is truly remarkable. I believe he can bring about a transformative impact in Champaran. But what about the other leaders? Why are they supporting him?

Rajendra Prasad: They recognize Gandhi's unique ability to inspire and lead by example. His humility and dedication resonate with people from all walks of life. Moreover, they see that his methods of peaceful resistance can mobilize the masses effectively.

Charles Freer Andrews: Indeed, Gandhi's leadership qualities are commendable. I am certain that with his guidance and the support of other leaders, the movement in Champaran will achieve its objectives. It's heartening to witness such determination and unity for the greater good.
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Question 84 Marks
The prose selections, Deep Water and Indigo, bring out the importance of overcoming fear, in order to be able to lead our lives successfully. Imagine yourself to be a motivational spea
ker who has to address high school students. Write this address in 120 – 150 words elaborating on occurrences from the two texts to inspire your audience and convince them about the importance of overcoming fear.

You may begin like this …

Good morning, students!

We all know what it’s like to be afraid. Fear is our body’s natural response to a perceived threat or danger. But when …
Answer
Good morning, students!

We all know what it's like to be afraid. Fear is our body's natural response to a perceived threat or danger. But when we let fear immobilize us, it prevents us from progressing and living life to the fullest. Today, I want to share two powerful stories that illustrate the importance of overcoming fear.

In the story "Deep Water," we meet William Douglas, who had a deep fear of water. This fear held him back from experiencing simple joys like fishing or canoeing. But instead of letting fear control him, he made a decision to face it head-on. It took months of determination and persistence, but he worked through his fear and learned how to swim. By doing so, he reclaimed his life and freed himself from the shackles of fear.

Similarly, in the text "Indigo," we witness the plight of the peasants in Champaran, who were living in fear of the British rulers. They were unable to take a stand for their rights until they found strength in unity. When they gathered around the courthouse in Motihari, it was a powerful step towards overcoming their fear and fighting for justice. Their determination and collective efforts eventually led to their triumph.

These stories teach us that overcoming fear requires facing it, devising a plan, and working through it. It demands persistence and unwavering determination. Just as William Douglas took small steps each day to conquer his fear, and the peasants of Champaran fought for their rights despite the risks, we too must find the courage within ourselves.

Remember, there is strength in unity when facing a common fear. Together, we can overcome any obstacle that stands in our way. Once we conquer our fears, we are free to live our lives to the fullest and pursue our dreams.

So, my dear students, I urge you to embrace your fears and turn them into stepping stones for growth. Don't let fear hold you back from reaching your full potential. Take inspiration from the stories of William Douglas and the peasants of Champaran, and let their courage fuel your own.

Believe in yourselves, work through your fears, and never stop pushing forward. Success and fulfillment await those who dare to overcome their fears and embrace the possibilities that lie beyond.

Thank you, and may you find the strength to conquer your fears and live a life of purpose and achievement.
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Question 93 Marks
Describe the works done by Gandhi for improving the health condition in Champaran.
Answer
1. Appointment of a Doctor
Gandhi noticed that the health conditions in Champaran were miserable. To address this, he got a volunteer doctor who agreed to serve the people for six months.
2. Available Medicines
During that time, medical resources were very limited. The doctor managed the health of the villagers using only three available medicines:
- Castor Oil: Given to anyone with a "coated tongue" (an indicator of poor digestion or fever).
- Quinine: Given to patients suffering from malaria fever (usually mixed with castor oil).
- Sulphur Ointment: Used for treating people with skin eruptions or rashes (also applied along with castor oil).
3. Personal Hygiene and Sanitation
Gandhi’s wife, Kasturba Gandhi (Kasturbai), played a vital role in this reform. She stayed in the villages to talk to the women.
- Hygiene Awareness: She noticed that the women wore very dirty clothes. When she spoke to them, one woman took her into her hut and showed her that she had no box or cupboard for clothes—the sari she was wearing was the only one she owned.
- General Sanitation: Kasturbai taught the villagers about the importance of personal cleanliness, general sanitation, and keeping their surroundings clean to prevent diseases.
4. Community Involvement
Gandhi appealed for teachers and volunteers from other parts of India. Several disciples, including Mahadev Desai and Narhari Parikh with their wives, came to Champaran. They opened primary schools in six villages to educate the children and their parents about better living standards.
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