History Mahatma Gandhi Questions Long
The main objectives of Mahatma Gandhi's Harijan movement were to uplift and empower the marginalized and oppressed sections of society, particularly the untouchables or Dalits. The term "Harijan" was coined by Gandhi, which means "children of God," to emphasize the inherent dignity and worth of these individuals who were considered to be at the lowest rung of the social hierarchy in India.
1. Eradication of Untouchability: The primary objective of the Harijan movement was to eradicate the practice of untouchability, which was deeply rooted in the Indian caste system. Gandhi believed that untouchability was a social evil that needed to be eliminated for the establishment of a just and egalitarian society.
2. Social Integration: Gandhi aimed to promote social integration by breaking down the barriers between different castes and communities. He advocated for inter-caste marriages and encouraged the upper-caste Hindus to interact and dine with the untouchables, challenging the age-old social norms and prejudices.
3. Education and Empowerment: Gandhi emphasized the importance of education as a means to uplift the untouchables and enable them to lead a life of dignity. He established schools and ashrams specifically for the untouchables, providing them with education, vocational training, and skills necessary for their socio-economic development.
4. Economic Empowerment: Gandhi believed that economic self-sufficiency was crucial for the empowerment of the untouchables. He encouraged them to engage in various cottage industries and handicrafts, promoting self-employment and economic independence.
5. Political Representation: Gandhi advocated for political representation of the untouchables in the decision-making bodies of the country. He believed that their inclusion in the political process would ensure their voices were heard and their rights protected.
6. Social Reforms: The Harijan movement aimed to bring about broader social reforms, challenging the discriminatory practices and prejudices prevalent in society. Gandhi actively campaigned against child marriage, dowry system, and other social evils that perpetuated the oppression of the untouchables.
7. Non-violent Resistance: Gandhi's approach to the Harijan movement was rooted in non-violence and peaceful resistance. He encouraged the untouchables to assert their rights and dignity through non-violent means, such as boycotts, protests, and civil disobedience.
Overall, the Harijan movement led by Mahatma Gandhi sought to address the social, economic, and political inequalities faced by the untouchables, aiming to create a more inclusive and egalitarian society based on the principles of justice and equality.