UPSC Prelim 2025 Paper I

Consider the following subjects with regard to Non-Cooperation Programme: I. Boycott of law-courts and foreign cloth II. Observance of strict non-violence III. Retention of titles and honours without using them in public IV. Establishment of Panchayats for settling disputes How many of the above were parts of Non-Cooperation Programme?

Verified Answer
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. Only three
D. All the four

Explanation:

The Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922) included: I. Boycott of law-courts and foreign cloth: This was a central component of the movement, aiming to undermine British institutions and promote Swadeshi. (Correct) II. Observance of strict non-violence: Mahatma Gandhi emphasized non-violence as the core principle and method of the movement. (Correct) III. Retention of titles and honours without using them in public: The Non-Cooperation program called for the *surrender* of titles and honorary offices awarded by the British government, not their retention. (Incorrect) IV. Establishment of Panchayats for settling disputes: This was part of the constructive program, promoting self-governance and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. (Correct) Therefore, three of the listed items (I, II, and IV) were parts of the Non-Cooperation Programme.