Explanation: The Non-Cooperation Movement was a pivotal phase in the Indian freedom struggle, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920. It was officially adopted at the Indian National Congress session held in Nagpur in December 1920. This movement aimed to achieve Swaraj (self-rule) through non-violent means, including boycotting British institutions and goods, and encouraging the use of Indian-made products.
The Indian National Congress, founded in 1885, was a key organization in the Indian freedom struggle. It held annual sessions in different cities across India, each session addressing various aspects of the freedom movement. The Nagpur session of 1920 was particularly significant as it marked a shift in the strategy of the Indian National Congress from moderate to more assertive methods of protest.
The decision to adopt the Non-Cooperation Movement was made after extensive discussions and debates within the Congress. The movement was a response to the Rowlatt Act of 1919, which allowed the British government to imprison individuals suspected of sedition without trial. The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre in Amritsar in April 1919 further fueled the desire for non-cooperation with the British.
The Nagpur session was attended by thousands of delegates and marked a turning point in the Indian freedom struggle. It was here that Gandhi proposed the Non-Cooperation Movement, which was subsequently adopted by the Congress. The movement included several key components such as boycotting British educational institutions, law courts, and legislative councils, and encouraging the use of khadi (hand-spun cloth) and other Indian-made goods.
Understanding the significance of the Nagpur session and the Non-Cooperation Movement is crucial for comprehending the evolution of the Indian freedom struggle. It highlights the shift from moderate to more assertive methods of protest and the role of key figures like Gandhi in shaping the movement. The session in Nagpur in December 1920 was a landmark event that set the stage for future movements and ultimately contributed to India's independence in 1947.