Answer the following in two or three sentences.

(a) What led to the development of a sense of nationalism among the Indians?

(b) What realization led to the emergence of provincial associations?

(c) Which demands were put forth in the first session of the Indian National Congress?

(d) What were the aims and objectives of the Indian National Congress?

(a) Following were the reasons for development of a sense of nationalism among the Indians –

1. Indians imbibed values of liberty, equality, democracy, a scientific outlook, nationalism amongst others through Western education. It therefore lent a modern outlook to the national sentiments of Indians.

2. The study of oriental learning i.e. in the field of ancient Indian history and culture aroused the feeling of national pride amongst the Indians.

3. Improved levels of communication through the introduction of transport and railway system further led to the rapid spread of ideas. Newspapers and journals also helped in spreading and shaping public opinion across the country.

(b) The middle classes who gained awareness about philosophy of democracy through western education understood the need to have a place in managing the affairs of the country. Enraged by the attitude of racial superiority of the British, they realized that organized efforts were needed to put their problems and discontent before the government. Such a situation eventually resulted in the formation of provincial political associations.

(c) Different national issues were discussed in the first session of the Indian National Congress in Bombay under the presidency of Wyomesh Chandra Banerjee. A place for Indians in the administration of the country, curtailment in the expenditure on army, and other demands were made during this session.

(d) The major aims and objectives of the Indian National Congress were as follows -

1. They wanted to bring together Indians living in different parts of the country.

2. They wanted to create a feeling of unity among them irrespective of differences of religion, race and caste.

3. They wanted to create a platform wherein people could understand each other’s problems and views.

4. They wanted everyone to come forward and discuss the measures necessary for the uplift of the country.