GSEB Class 12 English Flamingo Chapter 5 Indigo Solutions

Think As You Read No. 47

Question 1. Strikeout what is not true in the following:
(a) Rajkumar Shukla was
(i) a sharecropper.
(ii) a politician.
(iii) delegate.
(iv) a landlord.
Answer:
(a) (ii) a politician.

Exam Tip: Always read "Strikeout what is not true" carefully, as it asks for the incorrect statement, not the correct one.

(b) Rajkumar Shukla was
(i) poor.
(ii) physically strong.
(iii) illiterate.
Answer:
(b) (ii) physically strong.

Exam Tip: Understand character traits well; sometimes questions test what a character was NOT, rather than what they were.

Question 2. Why is Rajkumar Shukla described as being 'resolute'?
Answer: Rajkumar Shukla is described as 'resolute' because he had traveled a long way from the Champaran district, located in the Himalayan foothills, just to speak with Gandhi in Lucknow. Shukla then accompanied Gandhi everywhere he went. He followed Gandhi to his ashram near Ahmedabad and never left Gandhi's side for weeks until Gandhi requested to meet him in Kolkata.
In simple words: Rajkumar Shukla was called 'resolute' because he firmly stuck with Gandhi, following him from Champaran to Lucknow, Ahmedabad, and then to Kolkata, until Gandhi agreed to help him.

Exam Tip: When a question asks for a character's trait, provide specific examples from the text that demonstrate that quality to support your answer.

Question 3. Why do you think the servants thought Gandhi to be another peasant?
Answer: Shukla guided Gandhi to Rajendra Prasad's home. The servants knew Shukla as a poor farmer. Gandhi was also dressed in a simple dhoti. He was the companion of a peasant. Therefore, the servants believed Gandhi to be another peasant.
In simple words: Gandhi wore simple clothes and came with a poor farmer, so the servants thought he was just another peasant too.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to details about appearance and company when inferring character perceptions in the story.

Think As You Read (Textbook Page No. 49)

Question 1. List the places that Gandhi visited between his first meeting with Shukla and his arrival at Champaran.
Answer: Gandhi's initial meeting with Shukla happened in Lucknow. After that, he went to Cawnpore and other regions of India. He then returned to his ashram near Ahmedabad. Later, he traveled to Kolkata, Patna, and Muzaffarpur before finally reaching Champaran.
In simple words: Gandhi went from Lucknow to Cawnpore, other parts of India, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Patna, and Muzaffarpur before reaching Champaran.

Exam Tip: For questions asking for a list of places or events, ensure you include all mentioned locations in chronological order.

Question 2. What did the peasants pay the British landlords as rent? What did the British now want instead and why? What would be the impact of synthetic indigo on the prices of natural indigo?
Answer: The peasants paid the British landlords by giving indigo as rent. Now, Germany had created synthetic indigo. So, the British landlords desired money as compensation for releasing the peasants from the 15 percent agreement. The prices of natural indigo would decrease because of the synthetic indigo.
In simple words: Peasants paid rent with indigo. When Germany made fake indigo, British landlords wanted money instead because natural indigo prices would fall.

Exam Tip: Break down multi-part questions and answer each component clearly and concisely to score full marks.

Think As You Read (Textbook Page No. 51)

Question 1. The events in this part of the text illustrate Gandhi's method of working. Can you identify some instances of this method and link them to his ideas of Satyagraha and non-violence?
Answer: Gandhi's political approach was connected with the everyday problems faced by millions of Indians. He opposed unfair laws. He was prepared to be arrested for breaking such laws and going to jail. The well-known Dandi March, aimed at breaking the 'salt law,' is another illustration. The resistance and disobedience were peaceful and a fight for truth and justice. This was directly connected to his principles of Satyagraha and non-violence.
In simple words: Gandhi helped ordinary people with their daily problems, broke unfair laws peacefully, and was ready to go to jail. This showed his belief in truth and non-violence.

Exam Tip: When asked to link specific events to broader concepts, clearly explain how the actions embody those ideas, providing concrete examples.

Think As You Read (Textbook Page No. 53)

Question 1. Why did Gandhi agree to a settlement of 25 per cent refund to the farmers?
Answer: For Gandhi, the amount of the refund was less important than the fact that the landlords had been compelled to return a portion of the money, and with it, a part of their standing too. So, he accepted the settlement of 25 per cent refund to the farmers.
In simple words: Gandhi agreed to the 25 percent refund because it showed that the landlords were forced to give money back and had lost some of their power. The amount was not the main point.

Exam Tip: Focus on the underlying principles or strategic reasons behind a decision, rather than just the immediate outcome.

Question 2. How did the episode change the plight of the peasants?
Answer: The peasants were saved from spending time and money on court cases. After several years, the British planters gave up control of their estates. These properties then returned to the peasants. Indigo sharecropping subsequently disappeared.
In simple words: Peasants no longer needed to go to court. British landlords gave up their land, which went back to the peasants, and indigo sharecropping stopped completely.

Exam Tip: When asked about the impact of an event, describe both immediate and long-term consequences for the affected group.

Understanding The Text

Question 1. Why do you think Gandhi considered the Champaran episode to be a turning point in his life?
Answer: The Champaran episode started as an attempt to reduce the suffering of many poor peasants. He received spontaneous help from thousands of people. Gandhi admitted that what he had done was a very ordinary thing. He stated that the British could not command him in his own country. Therefore, he considered the Champaran episode a significant turning point in his life.
In simple words: Gandhi saw Champaran as a turning point because it showed that ordinary people could support a cause, and it proved that the British could not boss him around in his own land.

Exam Tip: When discussing turning points, emphasize how the event marked a shift in a person's life or strategy, and what new understanding or resolve emerged.

Question 2. How was Gandhi able to influence lawyers? Give instances.
Answer: Gandhi asked the lawyers what they would do if he were sent to prison. They replied that they had come to offer him advice. If he went to jail, they would go home. Then Gandhi questioned them about the injustice faced by the sharecroppers. The lawyers discussed this and concluded that it would be a shameful abandonment if they returned home. So, they informed Gandhi that they were prepared to follow him into jail.
In simple words: Gandhi made lawyers change their minds by asking what they would do if he went to jail. After thinking, they decided it would be wrong to leave and agreed to join him in prison.

Exam Tip: Illustrate influence with direct examples of dialogue or actions that demonstrate how a change in perspective was achieved.

Question 3. What was the attitude of the average Indian in smaller localities towards advocates of 'home rule'?
Answer: The ordinary Indians in smaller areas were afraid to show support for the advocates of home rule. Gandhi stayed at Muzaffarpur for two days at the home of Professor Malkani, a teacher in a government school. It was an unusual thing during those times for a government professor to offer shelter to someone who opposed the government.
In simple words: Regular Indians in small towns were scared to support 'home rule' advocates. It was very brave for a government professor like Malkani to let Gandhi stay with him, as it went against the government.

Exam Tip: Highlight the contrast between common sentiment and specific acts of courage to demonstrate the prevailing attitude and its exceptions.

Question 4. How do we know that ordinary people too contributed to the freedom movement?
Answer: Professor J. B. Kripalani welcomed Gandhi at Muzaffarpur railway station at midnight. He was accompanied by many students. Sharecroppers from Champaran traveled on foot and by various means to see Gandhi. Muzaffarpur lawyers also called on him. A huge crowd greeted Gandhi when he reached Motihari railway station. Thousands of people demonstrated around the courtroom. This indicates that ordinary people also contributed to the freedom movement in India.
In simple words: We know ordinary people helped the freedom movement because students, farmers, lawyers, and huge crowds came to support Gandhi, showing their active participation.

Exam Tip: Provide diverse examples of participation from different groups of people to strongly support the idea of widespread contribution.

Talking About The Text

Discuss The Following:

Question 1. "Freedom from fear is more important than Legal justice for the poor.” Do you think that the poor of India are free from fear after Independence?
Answer: For the poor of India, basic means of survival are much more important than freedom or legal justice. I do not believe that the poor of India are free from fear after Independence. The foreign rulers have been replaced by corrupt politicians and an inefficient bureaucracy. Power-brokers and moneylenders continue to exploit them. The situation has improved in cities and towns for the poor, but those in remote villages still dread the large farmers and moneylenders. The police and revenue officials are still sources of terror for them.
The poor, landless workers still have to work hard to survive. Tenant farmers often have to borrow money from wealthy moneylenders at very high interest rates, which they usually cannot repay due to monsoon failures or poor crops. Cases of small farmers taking their own lives are quite common. If this is not due to fear, then what is the actual reason behind it?
In simple words: For poor Indians, survival is more important than legal rights. Many still fear corrupt leaders, moneylenders, police, and officials, especially in villages. Farmers often take their own lives due to debt from bad crops, showing that fear remains a big issue even after Independence.

Exam Tip: When asked for an opinion on a social issue, present your viewpoint clearly and support it with logical arguments and examples, acknowledging complexities.

Question 2. The qualities of a good leader.
Answer: A good leader has broad appeal among people. He emerges from the masses, thinks for them, and works for their benefit. He is genuine in his approach and operates on principles. Truth, honesty, patriotism, morality, a spirit of service, and sacrifice are the defining characteristics of a good leader. He never mixes politics with religion or specific groups. He believes in working for the greater good.
In simple words: A good leader is popular, comes from the people, works for them, and is honest and patriotic. They don't mix politics with religion and always act with principles.

Exam Tip: When defining abstract concepts like "good leadership," list specific, actionable qualities and briefly explain why each is important.

Working With Words

Question 1. List the words used in the text that are related to legal procedures. For example deposition
Answer: The words related to legal procedures are Notice, summons, prosecutor, trial, plead, guilty, order, penalty, sentence, bail, judgement, prison, case, inquiry, evidence, commission.
In simple words: Legal words from the text include Notice, summons, prosecutor, trial, plead, guilty, order, penalty, sentence, bail, judgement, prison, case, inquiry, evidence, and commission.

Exam Tip: When listing terms from a text, ensure accuracy by cross-referencing with the source to avoid errors.

Question 2. List other words that you know that fall into this category.
Answer: Other words that fall into this category include: Complaint, complainant, decree, defendant, witness, prosecution, defence, sessions, jury, verdict, decision.
In simple words: More legal words are Complaint, complainant, decree, defendant, witness, prosecution, defence, sessions, jury, verdict, and decision.

Exam Tip: Expand your vocabulary by categorizing new words and recalling related terms from your existing knowledge.

Thinking About Language

Question 1. Notice the sentences in the text which are in 'direct speech'. Why does the author use quotations in his narration?
Answer: The following sentences in the text are in 'direct speech':
1. He said, "I will tell you how it happened that I decided to urge the departure of the British. It was in 1917."
2. Gandhi recounted. "A peasant came up to me looking like any other peasant in India, poor and emaciated, and said, 'I am Rajkumar Shukla. I am from Champaran, and I want you to come to my district!'"
3. Gandhi said, “I have to be in Calcutta on such-and-such a date. Come and meet me and take me from there.”
4. “It was an extraordinary thing 'in those days,” Gandhi commented, for a government professor to harbor a man like me.'
5. He said, "I have come to the conclusion that we should stop going to law courts. Taking such cases to the courts does little good. Where the peasants are so crushed and fear-stricken, law courts are useless. The real relief for them is to be free from fear."
6. "The commissioner,” Gandhi reports, “proceeded to bully me and advised me forthwith to leave Tirhut."
7. 'But how much must we pay ?' they asked Gandhi.
8. One woman took Kasturbai into her hut and said, “Look, there is no box or cupboard here for clothes. The sari I am wearing is the only one I have.”
9. “What I did”, he explained, “was a very ordinary thing. I declared that the British could not order me about in my own country."
10. He said, "You think that in this unequal fight it would be helpful if we have an Englishman on our side. This shows the weakness of your heart. The cause is just and you must rely upon yourselves to win the battle. You should not seek a prop in Mr Andrews because he happens to be an Englishman."
11. "He had read our minds correctly,” Rajendra Prasad comments, “and we had no reply... Gandhi in this way taught us a lesson in self-reliance.” The choice of the direct form strengthens the impact of the narration. The author uses quotations to highlight certain points which may not appear as effective when reported indirectly.
In simple words: The author uses direct quotes to make the story more impactful and to emphasize certain points more clearly than if they were just summarized.

Exam Tip: When analyzing authorial choices like direct speech, explain how the chosen technique enhances the narrative or emphasizes key messages.

Question 2. Notice the use or non-use of the comma in the following sentences:
(a) When I first visited Gandhi in 1942 at his ashram in Sevagram, he told me what happened in Champaran.
(b) He had not proceeded far when the police superintendent's messenger overtook him.
(c) When the court reconvened, the judge said he would not deliver the judgement for several days.
Answer:
(a) When the subordinate clause comes before the main clause, a comma is used to separate it from the main clause.
(b) No comma is used when the main clause comes before the subordinate clause.
(c) When an introductory adverbial clause begins a sentence, a comma is typically used after it to separate it from the main clause. In this case, "When the court reconvened" is the introductory clause, and a comma correctly separates it from "the judge said he would not deliver the judgement for several days."
In simple words: We put a comma after a starting phrase if it comes before the main idea, but not if the main idea comes first. For example, "When it rained, we ran" has a comma, but "We ran when it rained" does not.

Exam Tip: Master the rules for comma placement, especially with introductory clauses, to improve sentence clarity and grammatical correctness.

Answer The Following Questions In Three To Four Sentences Each:

Question 1. How did the development of synthetic indigo affect the English estate owners and the Indian tenants?
Answer: The English estate owners realized that indigo cultivation was no longer profitable. They demanded money from the sharecroppers as compensation for being released from the 15 percent arrangement. They secured agreements from their tenants to this effect and illegally and deceptively extracted money.
In simple words: When fake indigo was made, British landlords stopped making money from real indigo. They then forced Indian farmers to pay them money to break old contracts, cheating them.

Exam Tip: When explaining cause and effect, clearly state the initial event and then detail its specific consequences for each affected party.

Question 2. Why did Gandhi chide the lawyers? What according to him was the real relief for the sharecroppers?
Answer: Gandhi criticized the lawyers for charging high fees from the poor sharecroppers. He believed that taking such cases to court did little good for the oppressed and fearful peasants. The true relief for them, according to Gandhi, was to be free from fear.
In simple words: Gandhi scolded the lawyers for taking too much money from poor farmers. He thought courts didn't help much. For him, the real help was for farmers to become brave and stop being scared.

Exam Tip: For questions about 'real relief' or core issues, focus on the deeper, underlying problem identified, not just superficial solutions.

Question 3. How did Gandhi begin his mission In Champaran? How far did his efforts prove successful?
Answer: Gandhi started his mission by gathering facts. First, he visited the secretary of the British landlord's association, who informed him they could not give information to an outsider. Then, Gandhi called on the British official commissioner of the Tirhut Division. The commissioner tried to intimidate Gandhi and immediately advised him to leave Tirhut.
In simple words: Gandhi began his work in Champaran by trying to get information, but British officials refused to help and even tried to scare him away.

Exam Tip: Detail the initial steps of an undertaking and then assess the extent of its success, providing examples for both parts.

Question 4. What according to Gandhi was the beginning of the poor peasants' Liberation from fear of the British'?
Answer: The next morning, the town of Motihari was filled with peasants. They had heard that a Mahatma, who wished to help them, was in trouble with the authorities. They demonstrated spontaneously in thousands around the courthouse. Gandhiji called their protest action their freedom from fear of the British.
In simple words: For Gandhi, the peasants' spontaneous demonstration outside the courthouse, when they learned he was in trouble, was the start of their freedom from fear of the British.

Exam Tip: Identify the specific event that marks a turning point or a beginning, and explain why it held that significance for the individual in question.

Question 5. Why did Gandhiji feel that taking the Champaran case to the court was useless?
Answer: Gandhiji believed that taking the Champaran case to court was unproductive because the true relief for the peasants would only come when they became fearless. The peasants were in extreme panic and terror at that time.
In simple words: Gandhi thought going to court for the Champaran case was pointless. He felt that until the peasants lost their fear, real help wouldn't happen, and they were too scared to begin with.

Exam Tip: When evaluating a character's decision, explain the underlying philosophy or rationale that guided their choice, especially if it deviates from conventional methods.

Question 6. What according to Rajendra Prasad, was the upshot of the consultations of the lawyers regarding the injustice to sharecroppers?
Answer: They thought that Gandhi was a complete stranger. Yet he was prepared to go to prison for the sake of the peasants. On the other hand, the lawyers were local residents of nearby districts. They also claimed to have served these peasants. It would be a shameful abandonment if they were to go home then.
In simple words: Rajendra Prasad noted that lawyers, though local, felt ashamed if they left while a stranger like Gandhi was ready to go to jail for the peasants. They decided it was wrong to abandon the farmers.

Exam Tip: When attributing a statement to a specific character, clearly state their name and summarize their perspective accurately.

Question 7. "Civil disobedience had triumphed, the first time in modern India." How?
Answer: A case was initiated against Gandhi for ignoring government orders. The spontaneous demonstration by thousands of peasants confused the officials. The judge was asked to postpone the trial. Gandhi declined to provide bail. The judge released him without bail. Several days later, Gandhi received an official letter stating that the case against him had been dropped. Thus, civil disobedience was successful.
In simple words: Gandhi was charged for ignoring orders, but thousands of peasants protested. He refused bail and was released. Later, his case was dropped. This showed civil disobedience worked in India for the first time.

Exam Tip: When asked how an event happened, describe the sequence of actions and reactions that led to the outcome, highlighting key decisions.

Question 8. What do you think, led Gandhi to exclaim “The battle of Champaran is won"?
Answer: Gandhi was prepared to go to jail to fight the injustice against the sharecroppers. Many prominent lawyers from all over Bihar had come to advise and help him. Initially, they said they would return if Gandhi went to prison. Later, they held consultations and informed Gandhi that they were ready to follow him into jail. This support made Gandhi extremely happy and confident, leading him to exclaim that the 'battle of Champaran' was won.
In simple words: Gandhi exclaimed "The battle of Champaran is won" because the lawyers, who first hesitated, eventually decided to join him in jail, showing huge support and confidence in their collective struggle.

Exam Tip: Focus on the immediate trigger or primary reason for a character's strong emotional response or declaration.

Question 9. How did Gandhi and the lawyers try to secure justice for the Sharecroppers?
Answer: They started conducting a detailed inquiry into the complaints of the peasants. Statements from about ten thousand peasants were recorded. Notes were made on other evidence. Documents were gathered. The entire area became lively with the investigators' activities. The landlords responded by raising loud protests.
In simple words: Gandhi and the lawyers sought justice by carefully investigating peasants' complaints, collecting many statements and documents, and noting all evidence, which made landlords protest loudly.

Exam Tip: Detail the methods employed by the characters, emphasizing the systematic and thorough approach taken to achieve their goal.

Question 10. What amount of repayment did the big planters think Gandhi would demand? What did Gandhi ask? What amount was finally settled?
Answer: They thought Gandhi would demand full repayment of the money they had unfairly taken from the sharecroppers. Gandhi asked for only 50 percent. The planters offered to refund up to 25 percent. Gandhi was firm on 50 percent. The disagreement was resolved when Gandhi agreed to a settlement of 25 percent refund to peasants.
In simple words: Planters thought Gandhi would ask for all their money back, but he only asked for 50 percent. The planters offered 25 percent, and that was the amount finally agreed upon.

Exam Tip: Clearly state all numerical figures and demands, and identify the final compromise or settlement reached in a negotiation.

Question 11. Which other spheres besides political “I or economic fields received Gandhi's attention; during his long stay in Champaran?
Answer: The cultural and social backwardness of the Champaran areas troubled Gandhi. He requested teachers, and several people responded to his call. Primary schools were opened in six villages. Kasturba taught ashram rules on personal cleanliness and community hygiene. With the assistance of a doctor and three available medicines, they tried to combat the poor health conditions.
In simple words: Besides politics and money issues, Gandhi also cared about improving education, cleanliness, and health in Champaran. He got teachers, opened schools, and arranged medical help to fight poor living conditions.

Exam Tip: When asked about broad impacts, ensure you cover all relevant categories (e.g., social, cultural, economic, political) mentioned in the text.

Question 12. “This was typical Gandhi pattern” observes Louis Fischer. What do you learn about Gandhian politics from the extract 'Indigo'?
Answer: Gandhi's politics were intertwined with the practical, daily lives of millions of Indians. This was not a loyalty to abstract ideas; it was a devotion to living human beings. In everything Gandhi did, he tried to shape a new free Indian who could stand independently and thus make India free.
In simple words: Louis Fischer said Gandhi's method was typical because his politics focused on helping real people with their daily problems, not just big ideas. He wanted to make Indians self-reliant to free the country.

Exam Tip: Connect observations from critics or biographers back to specific actions or philosophies demonstrated by the subject in the text.

Question 13. How did Gandhi teach his followers a lesson of self-reliance?
Answer: During the Champaran movement, Gandhi's lawyer friends thought it would be helpful if C.F. Andrews stayed in Champaran and assisted them. Gandhi opposed this idea as it indicated a weakness of their spirit. He believed their cause was just, and they needed to rely on themselves to win this unequal struggle. They should not seek the support of Mr. Andrews simply because he was an Englishman.
In simple words: Gandhi taught self-reliance by refusing C.F. Andrews' help during the Champaran fight. He told his lawyer friends that relying on an Englishman showed weakness, and they needed to win the battle on their own.

Exam Tip: Illustrate lessons taught by characters with concrete examples of their actions or advice, showing how the teaching was conveyed.

Answer The Following Questions In Six To Seven Sentences Each:

Question 1. What solution to the problems of the poor did Gandhi suggest? How far did the Champaran movement help in this direction? OR "The real relief for them is to be free from fear,” remarked Gandhi. What do you think, was "the beginning of their liberation from the fear of the British"?
Answer: The sharecropper peasants had to cultivate indigo on 15 percent of their land and hand over the indigo harvest as rent to the landlord. When Germany produced synthetic indigo, the British planters began unlawfully and deceitfully extracting money as compensation from the peasants for releasing them from the 15 percent agreement. The peasants were forced to sign new contracts and pay money. The planters behaved as if they were above the law. Many peasants hired lawyers at expensive fees and went to court. The Muzaffarpur lawyers informed Gandhi about the peasants for whom they frequently appeared in court. Gandhi understood that these peasants were deeply oppressed and fearful. Freedom from fear was more important for them than legal justice. Gandhiji was prepared to face arrest for them.
Thousands of peasants spontaneously demonstrated around the court. The government had to release Gandhi without bail. This voluntary uprising of the peasants marked the start of their freedom from fear of the British.
In simple words: Gandhi's solution was to free the peasants from fear, which he believed was more important than legal battles. The Champaran movement helped by challenging the British planters who exploited peasants with indigo contracts and then demanded compensation. The peasants' spontaneous protest and Gandhi's readiness to face arrest, leading to his release without bail, marked the beginning of their liberation from British fear, showing them they could resist.

Exam Tip: When an 'OR' question is presented, address both parts or aspects of the question comprehensively within your answer.

Question 2. Why was Gandhi summoned to appear in the court? How did he gain his liberty? OR “Civil disobedience had triumphed, the first time in modern India.” Relate the events during Gandhi's stay in Champaran that led to the triumph.
Answer: Gandhi had arrived in Motihari, the capital of Champaran, to investigate the issues faced by the sharecropper peasants. He was en route to a nearby village where a peasant had been mistreated. On the way, he was stopped by the police superintendent's messenger and instructed to return to town. When he reached his residence, he was served an official notice ordering him to leave Champaran immediately. Gandhi wrote on the receipt that he would disobey the order. Consequently, Gandhi received a summons to appear in court the following day.
The next morning, Motihari town was filled with peasants. Thousands of peasants voluntarily demonstrated outside the court. The prosecutor requested the judge to postpone the trial. Gandhi protested against the delay. He read out a statement admitting guilt and asked for the penalty. The judge declared that he would pronounce the sentence after a two-hour recess.
He asked Gandhi to provide bail for that period. Gandhi refused. The judge released him without bail. After the recess, the judge announced that he would not deliver the judgement for several days. Meanwhile, he allowed Gandhi to remain at liberty. Several days later, Gandhi received a letter. The case against him had been dropped. Thus, civil disobedience had triumphed for the first time in India.
In simple words: Gandhi was called to court for disobeying an order to leave Champaran while investigating peasant problems. He gained his freedom when thousands of peasants spontaneously protested, causing the judge to postpone the trial and release Gandhi without bail. Later, his case was dropped, marking the success of civil disobedience.

Exam Tip: For detailed narrative questions, recount events chronologically and explain the significance of each step in the broader context of the movement.

Question 3. Give an account of Gandhi's efforts to secure justice for the poor indigo sharecroppers of Champaran. OR "Indigo sharecropping disappeared.” Which factors do you think, helped to achieve freedom for the fear-stricken peasants of Champaran?
Answer: Gandhi traveled to Champaran after receiving reports of the exploitation of poor peasants by British planters. He began by trying to obtain the facts. The British landlords, as well as the Commissioner of Tirhut, were uncooperative. Lawyers from Muzaffarpur informed him about the court cases of these peasants.
Gandhi and the lawyers collected statements from about ten thousand peasants. Notes were made on other evidence, and documents were collected. The entire area buzzed with the activities of the investigators and the forceful protests of landlords.
The lieutenant governor summoned Gandhi. After four extensive interviews, an official commission of inquiry was established to investigate the indigo sharecroppers' situation. Gandhi was the sole representative of the peasants. The official inquiry gathered a huge amount of evidence against the large planters. They agreed, in principle, to make refunds to the peasants.
After discussion, a settlement of 25 percent refund to the farmers was agreed upon. This was a moral triumph for the peasants. They recognized their rights and gained courage. Within a few years, the British planters abandoned their estates. These now reverted to the peasants, who became the owners of the land. Thus, indigo sharecropping ended.
In simple words: Gandhi worked to get justice by gathering facts, facing uncooperative British officials, and involving lawyers. He and his team meticulously collected evidence from thousands of peasants. This led to an official inquiry where Gandhi represented the peasants, forcing planters to agree to refunds. A 25 percent refund was settled, marking a moral victory. This helped the fear-stricken peasants gain rights and courage, eventually leading to the end of indigo sharecropping as British planters left their estates, and peasants became landowners.

Exam Tip: When outlining efforts and factors for success, ensure a logical flow from problem identification through action, negotiation, and final outcomes.

Question 4. How did Gandhi work for rural uplift during his stay in Champaran?
Answer: Gandhi wished to improve the cultural and social backwardness in Champaran villages. He appealed for teachers; two young followers, Mahadev Desai and Narhari Parikh, along with their wives, volunteered. Several others responded from distant parts of the country. Mrs. Kasturba Gandhi and Devdas, Gandhi's youngest son, arrived from the ashram. Primary schools were opened in six villages. Kasturba taught the ashram rules on personal cleanliness and community sanitation. She also spoke to women about their poor clothing.
Health conditions were dire. Gandhi got a doctor to volunteer his services for six months. Only three medicines were available: castor oil, quinine, and sulfur ointment. Anyone with a coated tongue was given a dose of castor oil; anyone with malaria fever received quinine plus castor oil; anyone with skin eruptions received ointment plus castor oil. Thus, Gandhi never limited himself to large political or economic solutions. He worked for the complete improvement of villages and the impoverished sections of society.
In simple words: Gandhi focused on improving rural life in Champaran by addressing cultural and social issues. He brought in volunteers to open six primary schools, where Kasturba taught cleanliness. He also arranged for a doctor and medicines (castor oil, quinine, sulfur ointment) to treat common ailments, showing his commitment to holistic community upliftment beyond just political and economic problems.

Exam Tip: Provide specific examples across various domains (education, health, sanitation) to demonstrate a comprehensive approach to rural development.

Question 5. “Self-reliance, Indian independence and help to sharecroppers were all bound together.” Elucidate on the basis of reading 'Indigo' by Louis Fischer. OR The Champaran episode was a turning point in Gandhi's life. Explain with examples from 'Indigo' by Louis Fischer.
Answer: Gandhi stayed in Champaran for a long time. The Champaran episode was a pivotal moment in his life. It was during this struggle in 1917 that he decided to push for the British's departure. The Champaran episode did not start as an act of resistance. It grew from an attempt to alleviate the sufferings of many poor peasants.
Gandhi concentrated on their practical daily problems. He analyzed the root cause of the issue - fear - and tried to eliminate it. The spontaneous demonstration of the poor peasants against the government for troubling Gandhi was the start of the end of their fear of the British.
In everything Gandhi did, he tried to shape a new free Indian who could stand independently and thus make India free. He taught his lawyer friends a lesson in self-reliance by opposing the involvement of C.F. Andrews, an Englishman, in their unequal struggle.
His assistance would be a crutch. This would show their weakness. Their cause was just, and they must rely on themselves to win the battle. Thus, self-reliance, Indian independence, and assistance to sharecroppers were all connected.
In simple words: Gandhi's long stay in Champaran became a turning point, showing how self-reliance, Indian independence, and helping sharecroppers were all connected. He helped peasants overcome fear by encouraging them to protest against the British. He also taught his lawyer friends to rely on themselves, refusing help from an Englishman, C.F. Andrews, to prove that Indians could fight their own battles and achieve freedom.

Exam Tip: When explaining a complex relationship between concepts, use clear examples from the text to show how each concept reinforces the others, as seen in Gandhi's actions.

Question 6. Justify the appropriateness of the title 'Indigo' to this extract.
Answer: The title 'Indigo' is very appropriate, precise, and suggestive. It immediately draws our attention to the main issue-the exploitation of indigo sharecropper peasants by cruel British planters. They compelled them through a long-term contract to cultivate indigo on 15 percent of their landholding and to surrender the entire indigo harvest as rent.
After Germany's development of synthetic indigo, the British planters unlawfully extracted money from the peasants as compensation for being released from the 15 percent agreement. The peasants who wanted their money back had initiated civil lawsuits. The planters, who acted like lords above the law and were feared by the poor, were compelled to return a portion of the money, and with it, a part of their prestige.
The extract also highlights the work done by Gandhi and his colleagues to improve the economic, political, cultural, and social lives of the indigo sharecroppers. Their education, health, and hygiene also received due attention. The difficult situation of indigo sharecroppers, their struggle under Gandhi's leadership, and their ultimate triumph when indigo sharecropping disappeared are important milestones. Thus, the title 'Indigo' is highly descriptive and apt.
In simple words: The title 'Indigo' is perfect because it directly points to the central problem: the exploitation of indigo farmers by British planters. It covers how artificial indigo changed things, how Gandhi fought for the farmers' rights, and how he improved their lives. Ultimately, it shows how the end of indigo sharecropping was a major victory, making the title very fitting for the story.

Exam Tip: To justify a title, explain how it encapsulates the main conflict, key characters, central themes, and ultimate resolution of the narrative.

Question 7. What impression do you form about Gandhi on reading the chapter 'Indigo'?
Answer: The chapter 'Indigo' honors Mahatma Gandhi's leadership in securing justice for oppressed people through persuasive arguments and negotiations. Gandhi possessed a magnetic appeal and great convincing power. He could attract people from all social classes and involve them in the freedom movement. Even ordinary people were motivated to contribute to the freedom movement.
Gandhi emerges as a champion of the oppressed and downtrodden. Rural development was his preferred program. His understanding of legal procedures and respect for law is also highlighted. He does not wish to be a lawbreaker but seeks to provide humanitarian and national service in obedience to a higher law of conscience. He also appears as a polite and friendly person. Gandhi's ability to understand others' thoughts left them speechless. He believed in self-reliance, a just cause, and pure methods to achieve India's Independence.
In simple words: Reading 'Indigo' shows Gandhi as a powerful leader who fought for the oppressed with logic and negotiation. He had a strong appeal, inspiring all types of people to join the freedom movement. He was polite, understood others well, and championed rural upliftment, believing in self-reliance and just methods to win India's independence.

Exam Tip: When asked for an impression of a character, synthesize their actions, qualities, and impact described in the text to form a coherent profile.

Reading Comprehension (Textual)

Read the following passages and select the most appropriate options as answers to the questions given below them:

Gandhi protested against the delay. He read a statement pleading guilty. He was involved, he told the court, in a "conflict of duties" on the one hand, not to set a bad example as a lawbreaker; on the other hand, to render the “humanitarian and national service" for which he had come. He disregarded the order to leave, “not for want of respect for lawful authority, but in obedience to the higher law of our being, the voice of conscience”. He asked the penalty due. The magistrate announced that he would pronounce sentence after a two-hour recess and asked Gandhi to furnish bail for those 120 minutes. Gandhi refused. The judge released him without bail. When the court reconvened, the judge said he would not deliver the judgment for several days. Meanwhile, he allowed Gandhi to remain at liberty.

Question 1. What was Gandhiji involved in?
A. Lawbreaking with the indigo farmers.
B. Rendering humanitarian and national service.
C. Ignoring his duties.
D. Not setting a bad example as a lawbreaker.
Answer: (A) Lawbreaking with the indigo farmers.
In simple words: Gandhiji was found breaking the law because he refused to follow an official order, which was related to helping the indigo farmers.

Exam Tip: When answering questions about a passage, always refer directly to the text to confirm details, even for seemingly obvious options.

Question 2. One of these sentences is false :
A. Gandhiji protested against the delay.
B. He set a bad example as a lawbreaker.
C. He did not want to follow the voice of conscience.
D. He did not obey the order to leave.
Answer: (C) He did not want to follow the voice of conscience.
In simple words: The false statement is that Gandhiji did not want to follow his conscience; in reality, he always followed it, even when defying orders.

Exam Tip: For 'false' statements, identify what is true in the text first, then find the option that contradicts it.

Question 3. What do the words 'the higher law of our being' mean?
A. Law of his superior.
B. What his conscience dictates.
C. Law of court.
D. Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (B) What his conscience dictates.
In simple words: "The higher law of our being" refers to the inner moral guide or conscience that tells a person what is right, even if it goes against external rules.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to phrases that express moral or ethical principles within the passage, as they often hint at deeper meanings.

Question 4. Gandhiji was free from the sentence ....................
A. for those 120 minutes.
B. till the judgment comes for several days.
C. till he gets bail.
D. till the court reconvened.
Answer: (B) till the judgment comes for several days.
In simple words: Gandhiji was allowed to remain at liberty until the judge decided to deliver the final verdict, which was postponed for several days.

Exam Tip: Note specific timeframes and conditions mentioned in the passage to accurately answer questions about duration or terms of release.

Question 2.

Health conditions were miserable. Gandhi got a doctor to volunteer his services for six months. Three medicines were available – castor oil, quinine and sulphur ointment. Anybody who showed a coated tongue was given a dose of castor oil; anybody with malaria fever received quinine plus castor oil; anybody with skin eruptions received ointment plus caster oil. Gandhi noticed the filthy state of women's clothes. He asked Kasturbai to talk to them about it. One woman took Kasturbai into her hut and said, "Look, there is no box or cupboard here for clothes. The sari I am wearing is the only one I have.” During his long stay in Champaran, Gandhi kept a long-distance watch on the ashram. He sent regular instructions by mail and asked for financial accounts. Once he wrote to the residents that it was time to fill in the old latrine trenches and dig new ones otherwise the old ones would begin to smell bad.

Question 1. Castor oil was given to the patient who ...
A. was suffering from Malaria.
B. had some gastric problem.
C. had some skin problem.
D. Both 'A' and 'B'
Answer: (D) Both 'A' and 'B'
In simple words: Castor oil was specifically given to people with coated tongues (gastric problems), and it was also part of the treatment for malaria fever when combined with quinine.

Exam Tip: Be careful with combined treatments mentioned in the text; ensure you understand if a medicine was given alone or as part of a mixture for a specific ailment.

Question 2. The clothes of the women in Champaran kept filthy because ....................
A. they were illiterate.
B. they did not have the sense of cleanliness.
C. they had only one sari to wear.
D. they had no time to wash the clothes.
Answer: (C) they had only one sari to wear.
In simple words: The women's clothing remained dirty because many only possessed a single sari, making it difficult to maintain hygiene while always wearing it.

Exam Tip: Look for direct quotes or clear statements in the passage that explain the reasons behind characters' actions or conditions.

Question 3. One of the following sentences is not true: During his long stay in Champaran, Gandhiji
A. lived in the Ashram.
B. kept on travelling all through region.
C. sent regular instructions to Ashram by mail.
D. kept on demanding financial accounts.
Answer: (A) lived in the Ashram.
In simple words: The statement that Gandhiji lived in the Ashram during his Champaran stay is false; he instead kept a distant watch and sent instructions, indicating he was elsewhere.

Exam Tip: When asked to identify a false statement, cross-reference each option with the passage to see which one is directly contradicted or not supported.

Question 4. At the Ashram, new latrine trenches were to be made because ....................
A. old latrine trenches were overflowing.
B. old latrine trenches would start smelling bad.
C. old latrine trenches were not in enough number.
D. Both 'A' and 'B'.
Answer: (B) old latrine trenches would start smelling bad.
In simple words: New latrine trenches were needed because the old ones would eventually start to smell unpleasant if not replaced, as Gandhiji highlighted.

Exam Tip: Focus on the direct cause-and-effect relationships stated in the passage to pinpoint the exact reason for an action or situation.

Question 3.

In everything Gandhi did, moreover, he tried to mould a new free Indian who could stand on his own feet and thus make India free. Early in the Champaran action, Charles Freer Andrews, the English pacifist who had become a devoted follower of the Mahatma, came to bid Gandhi farewell before going on a tour of duty to the Fiji Islands. Gandhi's lawyer friends thought it would be a good idea for Andrews to stay in Champaran and help them. Andrews was willing if Gandhi agreed. But Gandhi was vehemently opposed. He said, “You think that in this unequal fight it would be helpful if we have an Englishman on our side. This shows the weakness of your heart. The cause is just and you must rely upon yourselves to win the battle. You should not seek a prop in Mr Andrews because he happens to be an Englishman”. “He had read our minds correctly,” Rajendra Prasad comments, "and we had no reply... Gandhi in this way taught us a lesson in self-reliance”. Self-reliance, Indian independence and help to sharecroppers were all bound together.

Question 1. In his efforts to make India free, Gandhiji tried to ....................
A. do everything.
B. shape a new free Indian.
C. make each individual independent.
D. None of these three
Answer: (B) shape a new free Indian.
In simple words: Gandhiji's main effort was to create a new type of Indian citizen who was self-reliant and independent, capable of standing up for themselves.

Exam Tip: Summarize the main idea or purpose described in the passage to select the most encompassing and accurate option.

Question 2. Gandhiji's lawyer friends wanted Andrews ....................
A. to stay in Champaran and help them.
B. to bid Gandhi farewell.
C. to go to the Fiji Islands.
D. oppose Gandhiji.
Answer: (A) to stay in Champaran and help them.
In simple words: Gandhiji's lawyer friends desired Andrews to remain in Champaran, believing his presence would be beneficial for their cause.

Exam Tip: Identify key characters and their specific desires or roles within the narrative to correctly answer questions about their intentions.

Question 3. Gandhiji did not want Andrews to stay back and help them because ....................
A. he was an Englishman.
B. Gandhiji believed that they should not seek support from other than Indian.
C. Mr Andrews was not a reliable. man.
D. Both A' and 'B'
Answer: (D) Both A' and 'B'
In simple words: Gandhiji opposed Andrews staying because he was an Englishman, and he wanted the Indian people to develop self-reliance and win their own battles without external help.

Exam Tip: When options include "Both A and B", carefully check if both statements are supported by the text as reasons for the action described.

Question 4. The word in the passage which means 'strongly' is :
A. 'mould'.
B. 'vehemently'.
C. 'self-reliance'.
D. 'sharecroppers'.
Answer: (B) 'vehemently'.
In simple words: The word "vehemently" in the passage means with intense feeling or great force, which is synonymous with "strongly".

Exam Tip: To identify synonyms, look for the word in its context in the passage and infer its meaning from the surrounding sentences.

Vocabulary

Question. Choose the correct meanings of the phrases/ idioms and rewrite the sentences:
(1) We are en route to your office, please wait a little longer, (close to, on the way, searching for)
(2) My father's friends call upon him every Saturday, (invite, ring up, visit)
(3) She was away for years and in consequence, she has few friends. (because of, however, as a result)
(4) I want to confer with you on how to handle the problem. (decide, discuss, try out)
(5) His late-game goal finally broke the deadlock and put his team in the lead, (made a drastic change, brought an end to stalemate, made a miracle)

Answer:
(1) We are on our way to your office; kindly wait a bit longer.
(2) My father's friends visit him every Saturday.
(3) She was away for several years and, as a result, she possesses few friends.
(4) I wish to discuss with you how to manage the problem.
(5) His late-game goal eventually ended the stalemate and positioned his team in the lead.
In simple words: To correctly answer these, select the closest meaning of the phrase from the given choices and then rewrite the sentence using that meaning.

Exam Tip: For idiom and phrase questions, focus on understanding the context to pick the most accurate synonym, then ensure the rewritten sentence flows naturally.

Rectification of Errors

Question 1. Rectify the errors in the following text:
This settlement adopted unanimously by the commission. Gandhi explained if the amount of the refund was less important than the fact that the landlords had obliged to surrender part of the money.

Answer:

Exam Tip: When rectifying errors, always read the sentence aloud to identify awkward phrasing and check for correct verb tenses and conjunctions.

Question 2. Rectify the errors in the following text:
The officials felt powerless with Gandhi's cooperation. He helped them .regulating the crowd. He was polite and friendly. He was given them concrete proof that their might, hitherto dreadful and unquestioned, could be challenged by Indians.

Answer:

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to prepositions and word forms; a small change can significantly alter the sentence's meaning or grammar.

Punctuation

Question. Punctuate the following passage:
Next Gandhi called on the British official! commissioner of the tight division in which the Champaran district lay the commissioner Gandhi reports proceeded to bully me and advised me forthwith to leave that.

Answer:
Next, Gandhi called on the British official commissioner of the Tirhut division in which the Champaran district lay. "The commissioner,” Gandhi reports, “proceeded to bully me and advised me forthwith to leave Tirhut."
In simple words: Punctuation involves adding commas for pauses, periods for sentence endings, and quotation marks for direct speech to make the passage clear.

Exam Tip: Remember to enclose direct speech in quotation marks and use commas to separate introductory phrases or clauses.

Indirect Speech

Question. Convert the following into Indirect Speech:
One woman took Kasturbai into her hut and said, "Look, there is no box or cupboard here for clothes. The sari I am wearing is the only one I have."

Answer:
One woman took Kasturbai into her hut and showed her that there was no box or cupboard there for clothes. Then she added that the sari she was wearing was the only one she had.
In simple words: To change a sentence to indirect speech, rephrase the direct quote without using quotation marks, adjusting pronouns and tenses as needed.

Exam Tip: When converting to indirect speech, carefully shift verb tenses, pronouns, and time/place expressions (e.g., "here" to "there").

Transformation of Sentences

Question. Rewrite as directed :
1. Gandhi had never heard of the place. (Change the Voice.)
2. For weeks he never left Gandhi's side. (Turn into Affirmative.)
3. It was an extraordinary thing in those days. (Turn into Exclamatory.)
4. Muzzafarpur lawyers called on Gandhi to brief him. (Use ‘With a view to'.)
5. I have come to the conclusion that we should stop going to law courts. (Turn into Simple.)
6. The sharecropping arrangement was irksome to the peasants. (Turn into Negative.)
7. Gandhi did not leave. Instead, he proceeded to Motihari, the capital of Champaran. (Join these sentences using 'instead of'.)

Answer:
1. The place had never been heard of by Gandhi.
2. For weeks he kept by Gandhi's side.
3. What an extraordinary thing it was in those days!
4. Muzzafarpur lawyers called on Gandhi with a view to briefing him.
5. I have come to the conclusion to stop going to law courts.
6. The sharecropping arrangement was not gratifying to the peasants.
7. Instead of leaving, Gandhi proceeded to Motihari, the capital of Champaran.
In simple words: This exercise involves changing sentences into different grammatical forms, like voice, type, or structure, while keeping their original meaning intact.

Exam Tip: When transforming sentences, always double-check that the core meaning remains unchanged, even as the grammatical structure alters.

Indigo Summary in English

Indigo Introduction:

Louis Fischer (29 February 1896, 15 January 1970) was a Jewish American journalist. Among his notable works were a contribution to the ex-communist treatise The God that Failed (1949), The Life of Mahatma Gandhi (1950), which formed the basis for the Academy Award-winning film Gandhi (1982), and The Life of Lenin, which earned him the 1965 National Book Award in History and Biography.

Indigo Summary:

This story chronicles Gandhi's struggle for the impoverished Champaran peasants. In those days, most of the fertile land in the Champaran district was divided into large estates owned by Englishmen, worked by Indian tenants. Indigo served as the primary commercial crop. The landlords compelled all tenants to plant 15% of their indigo and surrender the entire harvest as rent, a condition set by a long-term contract.

The British planters no longer required the indigo crop once Germany developed synthetic indigo. To release the peasants from the 15% agreement, they demanded compensation. Some uneducated peasants agreed, but others refused. Rajkumar Shukla, a sharecropper, met Gandhi about this matter and urged him to visit Champaran due to the prolonged injustice from the landlords.

Then, the two of them boarded a train for Patna in Bihar. From there, Shukla led Gandhi to the house of a lawyer named Rajendra Prasad. Mahatma Gandhi's humble and simple clothing caused the servants to mistake him for another poor peasant. He conducted a thorough survey before taking any crucial step to secure justice for these peasants. This period was also when the British government penalized anyone who offered shelter to national leaders or protesters, regardless of the circumstances.

Gandhi's arrival and the nature of his mission rapidly spread like wildfire. Many lawyers and peasant groups arrived in large numbers to offer support. The lawyers acknowledged that their fees were high and would be burdensome for a poor peasant. Gandhi criticized them for charging large fees from the sharecroppers. He emphasized counseling, believing it would give the peasants sufficient confidence to overcome their fear. He eventually secured justice after a year-long battle for the peasants. He also arranged for education, health, and sanitation for the families of the poor peasants, imparting to them the lesson of self-reliance.