Part of: Maharashtra Gk set 36

From which of the following states Gujarat was carved out?

Category: Maharashtra Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context of state formation in India post-independence.

Correct Answer: C) Bombay

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The formation of the state of Gujarat is a significant event in the history of India's state reorganization. The process of state reorganization in India began in the 1950s, with the aim of creating states based on linguistic lines. This was a response to the demands of various linguistic groups for states that would reflect their cultural and linguistic identities.

Before 1960, the region that now includes both Maharashtra and Gujarat was part of a larger state called Bombay. The Bombay state was a composite entity that included both Marathi-speaking and Gujarati-speaking regions. The demand for separate states based on linguistic lines led to the division of the Bombay state into two distinct states: Maharashtra and Gujarat.

The States Reorganisation Act of 1956 had already set the stage for linguistic reorganization, but it did not immediately address the specific demands of the Marathi and Gujarati-speaking populations. The movement for separate states gained momentum, and in 1960, the Bombay state was officially divided. The Marathi-speaking region became the state of Maharashtra, while the Gujarati-speaking region became the state of Gujarat.

It is important to understand the historical context of this reorganization. The creation of these states was not just a political decision but also a reflection of the cultural and linguistic aspirations of the people. The division of the Bombay state into Maharashtra and Gujarat was a significant step in the process of state formation in India, which aimed to ensure that each state would have a more homogeneous linguistic and cultural identity.

Therefore, the correct answer is that Gujarat was carved out of the Bombay state. This historical event is crucial for understanding the political and cultural landscape of modern India, particularly in the western region of the country.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Kerala is not related to the formation of Gujarat. Kerala was formed in 1956 as a result of the linguistic reorganization of states in India, but it is not connected to the creation of Gujarat.
  • Option B: Rajasthan was formed in 1956, and it is not related to the formation of Gujarat. Rajasthan was created as part of the first round of state reorganization in India, which was separate from the creation of Gujarat.
  • Option C: Gujarat was carved out of the Bombay state in 1960. The Bombay state was divided into two states, Maharashtra and Gujarat, based on linguistic lines. This option is correct.
  • Option D: Maharashtra was formed in 1960 alongside Gujarat, but it was not the state from which Gujarat was carved out. Both states were created from the division of the Bombay state.

Mnemonic: Remember: "B" for Bombay, the precursor to Gujarat.

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