Question

The maximum movement in eastern India is a mixed representation of cultural glory and economic backwardness. Review.

Hint:

For such analytical questions, use the "Point-Counterpoint-Synthesis" approach. First, establish the "cultural glory" point. Second, establish the "economic backwardness" point. Finally, synthesize them to explain why this contradiction leads to "movements." Using specific examples like the Bengal Renaissance and the Freight Equalisation Policy makes your argument much stronger.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for a review of a central paradox of Eastern India (comprising states like West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha). This paradox is the coexistence of a rich, glorious cultural and intellectual heritage with significant and persistent economic underdevelopment. The term "maximum movement" likely refers to the fact that this region has been a cradle for major social, political, and revolutionary movements, born from this very tension.
Step 2: Review and Analysis:
Aspect 1: Cultural Glory
Eastern India boasts a profound cultural and historical legacy:
- Cradle of Empires and Religions: The region, particularly ancient Magadha (modern Bihar), was the heart of powerful empires like the Mauryan and Gupta, which were golden ages of Indian civilization. It is also the birthplace of Buddhism and Jainism.
- Epicenter of the Indian Renaissance: Bengal in the 19th and 20th centuries was the hub of intellectual and social reform movements. It produced global icons like Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, spiritual leader Swami Vivekananda, and cinematic genius Satyajit Ray, shaping modern Indian thought.
- Hub of Freedom Struggle and Art: The region was a hotbed of the Indian independence movement. It has rich traditions in literature, music, dance (like Odissi), and art (like Pattachitra).
Aspect 2: Economic Backwardness
Despite its cultural wealth, the region has lagged economically due to several factors:
- Colonial Exploitation: British policies like the Permanent Settlement devastated the agrarian economy. The region's rich resources were exploited for the benefit of the British Empire, leading to de-industrialization.
- Post-Independence Policies: The Freight Equalisation Policy (1952-1993) is a prime example. It subsidized the transport of minerals, meaning factories could be set up far from the mineral-rich eastern states at no extra cost for raw materials. This nullified the region's comparative advantage and led to a flight of capital and industry to other parts of India.
- Governance and Political Issues: Issues of poor governance, political instability, and corruption have historically plagued parts of the region, deterring private investment and hampering development. This has also fueled extremist movements like Naxalism, which feed on socio-economic grievances.
Aspect 3: The "Movement" as a Synthesis
The numerous movements originating from this region are a direct consequence of this contradiction. The intellectual vibrancy and political consciousness (cultural glory) combined with the widespread poverty and lack of opportunity (economic backwardness) create a fertile ground for dissent, protest, and movements demanding social justice, regional autonomy, and economic rights.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The review confirms that Eastern India is a land of sharp contrasts. Its glorious cultural and intellectual heritage stands in stark juxtaposition to its economic backwardness. This very tension between a proud history and a challenging present has made the region a dynamic crucible for many of India's most significant socio-political movements.