This Redbook covers the journey of India as an independent nation discussing important events in detail. The book has been organized in chronological order keeping in mind important topics of the syllabus of the UPSC Mains examination. Although marks-wise weightage of this portion might appear to be less in the Mains examination, important events in contemporary times cannot be understood in depth without understanding their historical background. This book will be helpful not only for covering post-independent history but also in understanding the important economic and political developments that shaped the destiny of the nation.
Chapter 1: Initial Years of Independence
This chapter provides an overview of India’s early years of independence, with a focus on the legacy of British colonial rule, the Indian national movement, concerns after independence, and the integration of princely states. This chapter explores the impact of British colonial rule in India and how the Indian National Movement shaped the trajectory of the future of India. The challenges India faced after achieving independence such as the partition of India, the refugee crisis, and communal tensions have also been comprehensively covered.
Chapter 2: Re-organisation of States
This chapter provides an in-depth analysis of the reorganisation of states in India after independence. The chapter covers topics such impact of the linguistic and cultural diversity of India, tin shaping regional identities. The section also discusses the role played by various leaders, organisations, and movements in advocating for the reorganisation of states.
Chapter 3: Rise in Regional Aspirations
This chapter provides a historical background of the factors that contributed to the rise of regional aspirations in India. The section covers topics such as the impact of colonialism, the emergence of linguistic and cultural identities, and the role of political and social movements in advocating for regional autonomy. This chapter comprehensively examines the case of Punjab, North East India, Telangana, Gorkhaland, Kashmir.
Chapter 4: Jawahar Lal Nehru Era
This chapter delves into the era of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, and his contributions to the development and progress of the country. It discusses Nehru’s Community Development Program, which was launched to bring about rural development and empower the rural population. It also covers Nehru’s emphasis on decentralization and the creation of a three-tier Panchayati Raj system in India. Other topics like the Planning Commission, Tribal Panchsheel, Hindu Code Bill and formulation of independent Foreign Policy.
Chapter 5: Period of Turmoil: 1962 and 1965 War
This chapter provides a detailed background and implications of the 1962 and 1965 war which shaped India’s political, military and diplomatic landscape. The 1962 Sino-Indian War and the 1965 Indo-Pak War were defining moments in India’s history, shaping the course of the country’s future. This chapter is designed to provide UPSC aspirants with an in-depth understanding of these two conflicts, their causes, consequences, and their impact on India’s national security and foreign policy. This chapter also provides valuable insights regarding Lal Bahadur Shashtri Era.
Chapter 6: Important Political Developments after the War
This chapter provides information about the Indira Gandhi era which was marked a significant period of political and social upheaval in India. One of the defining moments of this era was the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971, which led to the creation of Bangladesh and further consolidated India’s position as a major regional power. The chapter will also delve into the controversial period of Emergency, which was declared by Indira Gandhi in 1975, suspending civil liberties and leading to widespread protests and political turmoil.
Chapter 7: Politics After Emergency
The chapter will delve into the major political developments of this period, including the emergence of regional parties, the rise of opposition movements, and the landmark general elections of 1977, which saw the defeat of the Congress party for the first time since independence.
Chapter 8: Indian Economy Since Independence
This chapter covers how the Indian economy has evolved from a primarily agricultural economy to a diversified one, with a strong presence in the services and manufacturing sectors. The chapter will delve into the major economic policies and reforms that have shaped India’s economic trajectory since independence, including the Nehruvian model of planned development, the liberalization reforms of the 1990s, and the recent policy initiatives aimed at boosting growth and development.
Chapter 9: Agrarian Developments Since Independence
The chapter will delve into the major agricultural policies and programs that have shaped India’s agricultural trajectory since independence, including the Green Revolution, land reforms, and the cooperative movement in India. The chapter will also examine agrarian struggles in India since Independence.
Chapter 10: Post-Independence Environmental Movement
The chapter will delve into the major environmental movements that have taken place in India in the post-independence era, ranging from the Chipko Movement (1973) up to the Save Aarey Forest Movement (2019). These movements have been instrumental in bringing attention to issues such as deforestation, water scarcity, and the impact of large-scale development projects on local communities and the environment. The chapter will also examine the framework of the Environmental Movement in India.
We have curated this book to provide you with an immersive reading experience. The book is packed with high-quality content and illustrations to make the reading experience engaging and enjoyable.
We hope that this book will help you delve deeper into India’s Post Independence History and inspire you to appreciate its relevance in Modern India. We wish you all the best for your UPSC journey and hope that this book will be your perfect companion in your quest to become a Civil Servant.
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