Question

Which of the following challenges did India face upon gaining independence in August 1947?

1. Economic instability
2. Refugee crisis from Pakistan
3. Political unrest
4. Natural Calamities

• A. 3, 4
• B. 2 only
• C. 1, 2, 3
• D. 1, 3

Answer 1

Answer:

C. 1, 2, 3

Upon gaining independence in August 1947, India faced a multitude of significant challenges

Economic instability:

• India inherited a fragile and underdeveloped economy from British colonial rule.
• The economy was heavily dependent on agriculture, and industrialization was limited.
• The country faced fiscal challenges, a lack of infrastructure, and economic disparities among regions.

Refugee crisis with 8 million people from Pakistan:

• The partition of India into two separate nations, India and Pakistan, led to one of the largest mass migrations in history.
• Approximately 8 million refugees, primarily Hindus and Sikhs, fled from what had become Pakistan to India, while a similar number of Muslims migrated in the opposite direction.
• This massive refugee crisis created an immediate humanitarian challenge as the government had to find homes, jobs, and basic necessities for these displaced people.

Political unrest:

• The process of achieving independence was marked by intense political struggles and communal violence.
• The communal tensions between Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs escalated during the partition, leading to widespread violence and loss of life.
• Additionally, there were political disagreements and negotiations with the princely states, which needed to be integrated into the newly independent India.