RBSE Solutions Class 11 Political Science Chapter 20 Indian Independence Act of 1947

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 20 Textual Questions

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 20 Very Short Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1. When did the battle of Plassey take place ?
Answer: The Battle of Plassey happened in 1957 A.D.
In simple words: The significant Battle of Plassey took place in the year 1957.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always remember key historical dates accurately. Focus on the year and the specific event to score well.

 

Question 2. Which movement was conducted by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930?
Answer: Mahatma Gandhi led the Civil Disobedience Movement in 1930.
In simple words: Mahatma Gandhi started the Civil Disobedience Movement in 1930 to peacefully protest British rule.

🎯 Exam Tip: When mentioning movements, specify the leader and the year. This shows a complete understanding of the event.

 

Question 3. Why did Winston Churchill send Cripps Mission to India?
Answer: (The answer for this question is not provided in the source content.)

🎯 Exam Tip: Be aware that some questions might require knowledge beyond the immediate text. The Cripps Mission aimed to secure Indian cooperation in World War II by offering constitutional reforms.

 

Question 5. How many sections were there in the Indian Independence Act, 1947?
Answer: The Indian Independence Act of 1947 had a total of 20 sections.
In simple words: The Indian Independence Act from 1947 was made up of 20 different parts or sections.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing the structural details, like the number of sections in an important act, can be a valuable point in answers.

 

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 20 Short Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1. Which princely states were merged in East Pakistan?
Answer: According to the Indian Independence Act, 1947, British India was divided into India and Pakistan on August 15, 1947, creating two free and independent countries. Sir Cyril Radcliffe, the chairperson of the Boundary Commission, oversaw the border setting. Under his guidance, East Bengal and Sylhet states were merged into East Pakistan.
In simple words: Under the Indian Independence Act of 1947, East Bengal and Sylhet states became part of East Pakistan, after British India was divided.

🎯 Exam Tip: When answering about partition, mention the Act, the date, and the key figures involved, like Sir Cyril Radcliffe.

 

Question 2. Write down the declaration of 1947 made by British Prime Minister.
Answer: On February 20, 1947, British Prime Minister Clement Attlee announced in the House of Commons of the British Parliament that the British would transfer power to India's responsible government by June 30, 1948. He also mentioned that if Indian political parties reached an agreement, power could be handed over even earlier.
In simple words: British Prime Minister Attlee declared in 1947 that Britain would give power to India by mid-1948, or even sooner if Indian parties agreed.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight key declarations, the person who made them, the date, and the core message, especially concerning transfer of power.

 

Question 3. What were the proposals of Crisps Mission?
Answer: The proposals of Cripps Mission: During World War II, Allied countries urged British Prime Minister Churchill to seek India's cooperation as an ally in the war. Churchill sent a Mission to India, led by Sir Stafford Cripps, to resolve constitutional and political issues. The mission's proposals had two main parts. In the second part of the proposal, it was promised that colonial self-governance would be granted, and a Constituent Assembly would be elected to create India's constitution.
In simple words: The Cripps Mission was sent by Churchill during World War II to get India's help. It offered colonial self-rule and a Constituent Assembly to make India's constitution, but it was not fully accepted.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing missions, state the purpose, the leader, and the main points of their proposals, as well as their outcome.

 

Question 4. What proposals were put for the princely states in the Indian Independence Act, 1947?
Answer: The Indian Independence Act was introduced in the British Parliament on July 4, 1947, and passed on July 18, 1947. It contained 20 sections. The Act stated that after India and Pakistan were formed, British rule over the princely states would end. All existing treaties and agreements between the British Government and these states would automatically be dissolved. The princely states were then free to choose whether to join India, Pakistan, or remain independent.
In simple words: The Indian Independence Act of 1947 allowed princely states to join India or Pakistan, or stay independent, ending British rule and all old treaties with them.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that the Indian Independence Act did not force princely states to join either dominion, giving them a choice that shaped post-partition India.

 

Question 5. What changes took place in the position of India after World War II ?
Answer: India was brought into World War II against the wishes of its people. In 1945, the Labour Party came to power in Britain and had a positive view towards India. British Prime Minister Attlee sent three cabinet members to India to find solutions for constitutional and political problems. They suggested forming a federal state in India, creating a constituent assembly, and establishing an interim government. Congress accepted these proposals but rejected the demand for a separate Pakistan. The Muslim League opposed this and started 'Direct Action,' which led to widespread communal riots across the country.
In simple words: After World War II, India's political situation changed as Britain's Labour government favored independence. Proposals for a federal state and constituent assembly were made, but the demand for Pakistan and subsequent riots complicated matters.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on how international events like World War II impacted India's journey to independence and the role of different political parties.

 

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 20 Essay Type Questions

 

Question 1. Describe the plan presented by Cabinet Mission.
Answer: In February 1946, British Prime Minister Attlee sent three members of his cabinet-Lord Pethick-Lawrence, Sir Stafford Cripps, and A.B. Alexander-to India. This group was known as the Cabinet Mission. The background of the Indian Independence Act, 1947, includes several key events:
1. **National Events:** The Lahore Congress Session on December 31, 1929, passed a resolution for full independence. It was also decided to celebrate January 26 as Indian Independence Day from 1930 onwards. Major movements like the Civil Disobedience Movement, the Quit India Movement, the formation of the Azad Hind Fauj by Subhash Chandra Bose, and the Naval Mutiny in 1946 pressured the British Government to create this Act.
2. **Changed Circumstances due to World War II:** Indians did not want to help the British during World War II. However, some Indian Congress leaders later supported finding solutions for constitutional issues, leading to new proposals:
(1) **Cripps Proposal:** In 1942, the British Government sent Sir Stafford Cripps to India with proposals. The first part said Britain would be responsible for India's defense until the war ended. The second part offered India colonial or limited independence. These proposals were unsatisfactory and rejected by Indian political parties.
(2) **Cabinet Mission Plan:** In 1945, the Labour Party formed the government in England. Prime Minister Attlee then sent the Cabinet Mission to India. The mission suggested:

• The formation of federal state in India
• Formation of a Constituent Assembly for the framing of constitution of India

4. **Mountbatten Plan:** Lord Mountbatten, India's Governor-General, successfully helped the Congress and Muslim League reach an agreement. Both parties accepted the Mountbatten Plan for India's partition, and power was transferred to the new dominions of India and Pakistan on August 15, 1947.
In simple words: The Cabinet Mission proposed an undivided India, a federal state, and a Constituent Assembly after World War II, aiming to resolve political issues and transfer power.

🎯 Exam Tip: For essay questions, break down the plan into its main components (e.g., mission members, key proposals, reasons for its formation) and present them clearly.

 

Question 2. Describe the Mountbatten Plan.
Answer: The Mountbatten Plan is also known as the June 3 Plan or the Dickie Bird Plan. Lord Mountbatten arrived in India as the Viceroy on March 24, 1947. He immediately began talks with leaders from the Congress and Muslim League to solve the ongoing issues. On May 18, 1947, he traveled to London to discuss the final solution with the British Government. After returning from London, Mountbatten presented his plan for India's partition and the transfer of power on June 3, 1947.
**Main Points of Mountbatten Plan:**
1. India would be divided into two independent nations: India and Pakistan.
2. Bengal and Punjab would also be divided. A vote would be held in the North-Western Frontier Province and the Sylhet district of Assam.
3. Pakistan would have its own Constituent Assembly to create its constitution.
4. Princely states could choose to join India, Pakistan, or stay independent.
5. August 15, 1947, was set as the date for transferring power to India and Pakistan.
So, the main aim of the Mountbatten Plan was to quickly divide India and hand over power to the Indian governments as dominion states.
**Main characteristics of Indian Independence Act, 1947:**
1. **Division into Two Dominions:** This Act formally divided India into two independent nations: India and Pakistan.
2. **Freedom to Frame Constitutions:** Both India and Pakistan were given the freedom to create their own new constitutions.
3. **Boundary Demarcation:** The Mountbatten Plan also outlined the areas for India and Pakistan. Muslim-majority regions were allocated to Pakistan, while Hindu-majority regions went to India.
4. **Dual Constituent Assemblies:** The constituent assemblies of both dominions were granted full authority. They would function as legislative bodies until their respective constitutions were finalized.
5. **Right to Govern and Amend:** Both dominions were to govern themselves based on the Government of India Act, 1935. They also had the right to make changes to this Act.
8. **End of British Emperor's Rights:** The title "Emperor of India" was removed from the British Crown, ending all British emperor's rights concerning India.
9. **Removal of British Government Control:** The British government's control over the newly-formed dominions or any of their parts was abolished.
10. **Abolition of India Secretary Post:** The Indian Independence Act, 1947, ended the role of the India Secretary, transferring all its powers and responsibilities to the Secretary of the Commonwealth.
**Evaluation of the Indian Independence Act, 1947:** This Act allowed a smooth and peaceful transfer of power. It led to the creation of two independent, sovereign nations, India and Pakistan, and brought an end to long British rule. Lord Samuel described it as a truly historic event.
In simple words: The Mountbatten Plan, also called the June 3 Plan, proposed dividing India into India and Pakistan, partitioning Punjab and Bengal, giving princely states a choice, and setting August 15, 1947, as the transfer of power date. It aimed for a quick and orderly end to British rule.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing the Mountbatten Plan, list its key provisions clearly. Also, explain its significance in facilitating the partition and transfer of power.

 

Question 1. When did Congress celebrate first Independence Day of India?
(a) On 22nd June, 1921
(b) On 26th January, 1947
(c) On 26th January, 1930
(d) On 15th August, 1947
Answer: (c) On 26th January, 1930
In simple words: The Indian National Congress celebrated its first Independence Day on January 26, 1930, before India gained actual independence.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between the symbolic Independence Day celebration by Congress and the actual date of India's independence.

 

Question 2. Indian Independence Act was presented in the British Parliament:
(a) On July 18, 1947
(b) On July 4, 1947
(c) On February 20, 1947
(d) On August 15, 1947
Answer: (b) On July 4, 1947
In simple words: The Indian Independence Act was introduced in the British Parliament on July 4, 1947.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing the exact date when important acts were presented or passed is crucial for historical accuracy.

 

Question 3. Naval rebellion took place:
(a) in 1943
(b) in 1944
(c) in 1945
(d) in 1946
Answer: (d) in 1946
In simple words: The Naval rebellion, also known as the Royal Indian Navy mutiny, occurred in 1946.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize the significance of events like the Naval Rebellion in showing widespread discontent against British rule.

 

Question 4. Cripps Mission arrived in India:
(a) in 1940
(b) in 1941
(c) in 1942
(d) in 1943
Answer: (c) in 1942
In simple words: The Cripps Mission came to India in the year 1942 to discuss constitutional reforms during World War II.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the year of major missions and plans, as they are often direct questions in exams.

 

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 20 Other Important Questions And Answers

 

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 20 Multiple Choice Questions

 

Question 1. In which year was the Quit India movement started?
(a) in 1930
(b) in 1942
(c) in 1946
(d) in 1947
Answer: (b) in 1942
In simple words: The Quit India movement, a major call for British to leave India, began in 1942.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the year when major national movements like Quit India started, as these are common facts tested.

 

Question 2. In which year did the Second World War start?
(a) in 1939
(b) in 1942
(c) in 1935
(d) in 1914
Answer: (a) in 1939
In simple words: The Second World War began in 1939, involving many countries around the world.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connecting global events like World War II to India's freedom struggle can provide a broader context to your answers.

 

Question 3. Proposal of the formation of the Constituent Assembly was presented by:
(a) Cabinet Mission
(b) Mountbatten plan
(c) Cripps Mission
(d) Simon Commission
Answer: (a) Cabinet Mission
In simple words: The idea to form a Constituent Assembly, which would draft India's constitution, was put forward by the Cabinet Mission.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify which mission or plan proposed key constitutional ideas like the Constituent Assembly, as these are fundamental details.

 

Question 5. The Mountbatten Plan to divide India into two dominions was accepted on:
(a) June 3, 1947
(b) August 15, 1947
(c) July 4, 1947
(d) July 18, 1947
Answer: (a) June 3, 1947
In simple words: The Mountbatten Plan, which proposed dividing India into two dominions, was agreed upon on June 3, 1947.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate between the date a plan was accepted and when an act based on it was passed or implemented.

 

Question 6. Indian Independence Act was passed in the British Parliament on:
(a) July 4, 1947
(b) July 18, 1947
(c) June 3, 1947
(d) August 15, 1947
Answer: (b) July 18, 1947
In simple words: The Indian Independence Act was officially passed in the British Parliament on July 18, 1947, marking a legal step towards freedom.

🎯 Exam Tip: It is important to know the exact dates of critical legislative actions like the passing of the Indian Independence Act.

 

Question 7. Indian Independence Act, 1947 was passed:
(a) To execute the Cripps Plan
(b) To execute the Cabinet Mission Plan
(c) to execute the Mountbatten Plan
(d) All of the options
Answer: (c) to execute the Mountbatten Plan
In simple words: The Indian Independence Act of 1947 was enacted mainly to put the Mountbatten Plan into action, which involved the partition of India.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the primary objective behind major legislative acts to provide accurate and relevant answers.

 

Question 9. The first Governor General of independent India was:
(a) Lord Mountbatten
(b) Clement Attlee
(c) Winston Churchill
(d) C. Rajagopalachari
Answer: (a) Lord Mountbatten
In simple words: Lord Mountbatten served as the first Governor General of independent India, overseeing the transition of power.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the key individuals and their roles during the transition to independence, such as the first Governor General.

 

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 20 Very Short Answer Types Questions

 

Question 1. When did the British rule come to an end in India?
Answer: British rule in India officially ended on August 15, 1947.
In simple words: The British rule in India finished on August 15, 1947, when India became independent.

🎯 Exam Tip: This is a fundamental historical date; ensure you know it precisely.

 

Question 2. Which movement was conducted by Mahatma Gandhi in 1942?
Answer: Mahatma Gandhi launched the Quit India movement in 1942, demanding an end to British rule.
In simple words: In 1942, Mahatma Gandhi started the Quit India movement, telling the British to leave India.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect major movements with their leaders and specific years for clear and complete answers.

 

Question 3. Who conducted direct action regarding the demand of Pakistan?
Answer: The Muslim League initiated 'Direct Action' to press for their demand for a separate Pakistan.
In simple words: The Muslim League started 'Direct Action' to push for their goal of creating Pakistan.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the role of different political parties and their key strategies during the independence movement.

 

Question 4. When did Naval mutiny take place?
Answer: (The answer for this question is not provided in the source content.)

🎯 Exam Tip: The Naval Mutiny (also known as the Royal Indian Navy Mutiny) took place in February 1946, highlighting discontent within the British Indian armed forces.

 

Question 6. Name the British Political Party that had a positive attitude for India.
Answer: The Labour Party in Britain showed a positive and supportive stance towards India.
In simple words: The Labour Party in Britain was friendly towards India's freedom.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing the stance of different British political parties towards India's independence can provide valuable context.

 

Question 7. Name the Party that formed the government in Britain in 1945.
Answer: The Labour Party formed the government in Britain in 1945.
In simple words: After the elections in 1945, the Labour Party became the ruling party in Britain.

🎯 Exam Tip: The change in British government to the Labour Party in 1945 was a significant factor in India's path to independence.

 

Question 8. Name the members of Cabinet Mission.
Answer: The Cabinet Mission included three members: Lord Pethick-Lawrence, Sir Stafford Cripps, and A.V. Alexander.
In simple words: The Cabinet Mission had three members: Lord Pethick-Lawrence, Sir Stafford Cripps, and A.V. Alexander.

🎯 Exam Tip: For significant missions, always remember the key individuals who were part of them.

 

Question 9. Name the policy of Muslim League which caused the spread of communal riots in India.
Answer: The Muslim League's policy of 'Direct Action' led to widespread communal riots across India.
In simple words: The Muslim League's 'Direct Action' policy was responsible for starting many communal riots in India.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing partition, acknowledge the role of different political policies and their societal impact.

 

Question 10. Who opposed Mountbatten's partition plan till the last moment?
Answer: Abdul Ghaffar Khan and Purushottam Das Tandon were among those who opposed the Mountbatten Plan for partition until the very end.
In simple words: Abdul Ghaffar Khan and Purushottam Das Tandon continued to oppose the Mountbatten Plan to divide India until the final decision.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize that not all leaders agreed with the partition plan; mentioning those who resisted provides a balanced historical perspective.

 

Question 12. Who proposed the plan of dividing India into two dominions?
Answer: Lord Mountbatten was the one who suggested the plan to divide India into two self-governing parts, or dominions.
In simple words: Lord Mountbatten suggested the plan to divide India into two dominions, India and Pakistan.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the key individuals associated with major plans during the independence era, as they are often directly questioned.

 

Question 13. When was Indian independence Act presented in the British Parliament?
Answer: The Indian Independence Act was introduced in the British Parliament on July 4, 1947.
In simple words: The Indian Independence Act was shown in the British Parliament on July 4, 1947.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be precise with dates related to significant historical acts, distinguishing between presentation and passing dates.

 

Question 14. Which states were merged in western Pakistan?
Answer: Western Punjab, Sindh, North Baluchistan, and the small princely states of Baluchistan were incorporated into Western Pakistan.
In simple words: Western Pakistan was formed by combining Western Punjab, Sindh, North Baluchistan, and the smaller princely states of Baluchistan.

🎯 Exam Tip: Familiarize yourself with the geographical divisions and mergers that occurred during the partition.

 

Question 15. To whom were the rights of India Secretary given after the abolition of this post?
Answer: After the position of India Secretary was removed, its responsibilities were transferred to the Secretary of the Commonwealth.
In simple words: When the job of India Secretary ended, its duties were given to the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding the restructuring of administrative roles post-independence is important for a complete picture.

 

Question 16. Who was the first Governor General of independent India?
Answer: Lord Mountbatten became the first Governor General of independent India.
In simple words: Lord Mountbatten was the first person to hold the title of Governor General in independent India.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be clear about the first appointees to key positions in independent India.

 

Question 17. Who took oath as the first Prime Minister of independent India?
Answer: Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru took the oath as the first Prime Minister of independent India.
In simple words: Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru became the first Prime Minister of independent India.

🎯 Exam Tip: This is a fundamental fact about Indian history; ensure you can recall it instantly.

 

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 20 Short Answer Type Questions

 

Question 2. Write any two characteristics of Indian Independence Act, 1947.
Answer: The Indian Independence Act of 1947 had two main features:
1. **Creation of Two Dominion States:** The Act ensured that India would be divided, leading to the formation of two independent nations, India and Pakistan.
2. **End of British Rule over Princely States:** With the creation of India and Pakistan, British authority over princely states ceased. All existing treaties and agreements with them became invalid. These states were then free to choose to join India, Pakistan, or remain independent.
In simple words: The Indian Independence Act of 1947 made India and Pakistan two separate countries and also freed princely states from British rule, letting them choose their future.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked for characteristics, provide concise and distinct points, each explaining a key feature of the Act.

 

Question 3. What were the provisions regarding the end of post of India Secretary and public services in Indian Independence Act, 1947?
Answer: The Indian Independence Act, 1947, stated that the position of India Secretary would be abolished, and its duties would be given to the Secretary of the Commonwealth. For public services, the Act ensured that all Indian Public Service members would continue in their roles. They would retain their previous rights regarding their position, salary, leave, and other benefits.
In simple words: The Indian Independence Act removed the India Secretary's post, giving its duties to the Commonwealth Secretary. It also ensured that Indian public service members kept their jobs, salaries, and benefits.

🎯 Exam Tip: Detail the specific administrative changes brought about by the Act, focusing on how key positions and services were affected.

 

Question 4. What was mentioned in the Indian Independence Act, 1947, about British emperor, government and their duties and rights?
Answer: (The answer for this question is not provided in the source content.)

🎯 Exam Tip: The Act removed the British monarch's title as "Emperor of India" and ended British government control over the new dominions, transferring all legislative authority to the constituent assemblies.

 

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 20 Essay Type Questions