UP High Court RO / ARO 06 Jan 2022 Shift 1

A prominent part in the Swadeshi Movement was played by:

Verified Answer
A. Students of Bengal
B. Peasants
C. Shopkeepers
D. Indian Officials

Explanation:

Students of Bengal (Correct): The Swadeshi Movement (1905–1908), which emerged in response to the partition of Bengal, saw immense participation from students, particularly in Bengal. They actively boycotted foreign goods, picketed shops selling British products, organized protests, and propagated the message of Swadeshi (self-reliance). Their enthusiasm and organizational efforts were crucial to the movement's spread and impact, often facing severe repression from the British authorities. Peasants: While the movement had broad appeal, peasant participation was not as widespread or organized as that of students. Shopkeepers: Many shopkeepers faced dilemmas, and the movement often involved picketing their shops to enforce boycotts, indicating they were targets rather than primary drivers. Indian Officials: They were generally discouraged from participating and faced severe disciplinary action if they did, thus not playing a prominent part.