Model Answer

Introduction

The reorganization of North-East India after independence played a crucial role in addressing the identity-based concerns of various ethnic and tribal communities. This region, distinct in terms of geography, ethnicity, and culture, underwent a series of administrative reforms to ensure representation and safeguard the interests of its diverse groups.

Reorganization of States and Ethnic Identity

The North-Eastern region saw its distinct states formed based on ethnic and tribal identities, rather than linguistic lines, unlike much of India. Initially, Assam was the main state, but following independence, several new states were created:

• Nagaland (1963), for the Naga tribe.
• Meghalaya, Manipur, and Tripura (1972), for the Khasi, Jaintia, and other ethnic groups.
• Arunachal Pradesh (1975), Mizoram (1987), and Sikkim (1975), with each state aimed at ensuring greater autonomy for indigenous populations.

Autonomous Governance and Protection

To further address identity concerns, several measures were taken:

• Autonomous Councils were established within states like Assam and Tripura, allowing tribes to govern themselves in their own areas.
• The Sixth Schedule of the Constitution provided additional protections, ensuring tribal rights in areas like Karbi Anglong (Assam) and other regions.
• The Inner Line Permit System restricted migration to preserve local cultures and demographics.

Cultural and Linguistic Autonomy

The reorganization included policies to promote and protect the unique cultures of ethnic communities:

• States like Assam and Bodoland adopted languages like Bodo as official languages.
• Regional councils encouraged the promotion of local arts, customs, and traditions, helping preserve tribal identity.

Conclusion

By creating states based on ethnic identities, establishing councils for governance, and promoting cultural autonomy, the reorganization of North-East India post-independence addressed the region’s diverse identity concerns. This restructuring reduced secessionist movements and played a key role in integrating the North-East with the Indian Union.

Model Answer

Introduction

The status of women in India prior to independence was marked by deep-rooted inequalities and discrimination. Women had limited access to education, employment, and political participation. However, since India gained independence in 1947, significant strides have been made in improving the rights and opportunities available to women, particularly in political representation, education, employment, and social status.

Political Representation

One of the most notable advancements for women in post-independent India has been in political representation. The number of women in Parliament has increased significantly, from just 22 in 1952 to 78 in 2019. Additionally, the number of women holding ministerial positions also saw growth, peaking at 11 in 2019. Women have also assumed the position of Chief Minister in several states, with 16 states having had a female CM, the first being Sucheta Kriplani in Uttar Pradesh in 1963.

Education

In terms of education, the literacy rate among women has seen a remarkable improvement, rising from just 8.9% in 1951 to 70.3% in 2011. The Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in primary education increased from 77.1% in 2000 to 97.4% in 2019. Similarly, GER in secondary education rose from 34.3% in 2000 to 79.3% in 2019, demonstrating significant progress in women’s access to education.

Employment

Despite improvements in education, women’s participation in the labor force has declined. The labor force participation rate for women dropped from 35.5% in 2004-05 to 22.5% in 2017-18. Moreover, the gender wage gap remains a challenge, with urban areas experiencing a 20.9% gap and rural areas a 18.7% gap as of 2018. Women also represent only 23.7% of the formal workforce, reflecting ongoing disparities in employment.

Social Status

Socially, India has seen a reduction in practices like child marriage, with its prevalence dropping from 50% in 1985 to 27% in 2016. The maternal mortality rate also improved, falling from 167 per 100,000 live births in 2011-13 to 113 per 100,000 live births in 2016-18. However, gender-based violence remains a serious issue, with 30% of women reporting physical or sexual violence from their husbands in the National Family Health Survey (2015-16).

Conclusion

While India has made notable progress in advancing the status of women since independence, there are still significant challenges to overcome in achieving gender equality. Continued efforts are required to address ongoing issues such as employment disparities and gender-based violence to ensure that women fully benefit from the opportunities available in post-independent India.