INDIGO

Name page (name, class, sec, roll no, session)

Index
- objective of the project
- acknowledgement
- certificate
- about the author
- indigo: plotline
- some freedom movements in india (revolt of 1857, jallianwala bagh massacre,
simon commission)
- champaran movement
- Condition of Farmers in Champaran-Then and Now
- Farm Bill Agitation
- Farmer Protection Laws in India
- autobiography: Bhagat Singh
- experience gained
- conclusion
- bibliography
Objective of the study
1. Knowledge of the Past
to get a thorough grasp of the historical background of the Champaran
Satyagraha, particularly the socioeconomic circumstances that led to the misery
of the indigo growers and the socioeconomic realities in Bihar during the British
colonial era and to investigate the Champaran movement's wider influence on
the Indian independence movement.

2. Gandhi's Methods and Style of Leadership

to evaluate the leadership attributes of Mahatma Gandhi, such as his capacity for
mass mobilization, his dedication to nonviolent protest (Satyagraha), and his
methodical approach to addressing injustice alongside to research Gandhi's
techniques of inquiry, his dealings with the British authorities, and his capacity
to uplift and unite disparate populations.

3. Impact of Colonialism
to investigate the particular colonial indigo-growing practices that harmed
Indian farmers, such as the Tinkathia system that compelled farmers to cultivate
indigo on a portion of their land.Tto comprehend how these policies affect the
lives of farmers and their families on an economic, social, and personal level.

4. Ideas and Teachings

to recognize and talk about important concepts like leadership, justice,
resistance, and the struggle against oppression. to comprehend the ways in
which these themes speak to current social and political challenges as well as the
historical setting of the chapter.

5. Legal and Social Reforms

To look at the particular legal changes brought about by the Champaran
movement, like the repeal of the Tinkathia system and the implementation of
more equitable farming methods.

6. Critical Thought
to enhance critical thinking abilities by assessing Gandhi's strategies, such as his
use of civil disobedience and nonviolence. To evaluate the answers from
different parties, such as the local leaders, the Indian farmers, and the British
officials.

7. Ethical and Moral Perspectives

to consider the moral and ethical lessons—such as the value of defending
justice, the strength of truth (Satya), and the effectiveness of nonviolent
resistance—that Gandhi's deeds and the movement as a whole delivered. to talk
about the relevance of these lessons for current society and personal challenges.

8. Social awareness and empathy

to learn about the struggles faced by indigo farmers and the wider effects of
colonial exploitation in order to cultivate empathy and social consciousness. to
instill in people a feeling of social duty and the significance of standing up for
the rights of the disadvantaged and downtrodden.

We will gain a thorough understanding of the Champaran Satyagraha and its

effects via the investigation. We shall learn more about the harsh realities of
colonial policy. We will study about the important people, pinpoint major
themes of justice and resistance, and acknowledge the ensuing social and legal
transformations. Our capacity for empathy, communication, and critical thought
will all improve as a result of this research. All things considered, reading
"Indigo" broadens our understanding of this crucial incident and teaches us
important lessons about leadership and the effectiveness of group efforts to
achieve justice.

About the Author: Louis Fischer

Louis Fischer was born on 29 February 1896 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
USA. He was an American author, lecturer, and journalist who was well-known
for his perceptive biographies and his substantial work in international reporting.
Before moving into journalism, Fischer worked as a school teacher. His
reporting on significant international events and 20th-century personalities is
what made him most famous, especially his in-depth analyses and writings on
the Soviet Union and Mahatma Gandhi.

In the 1920s, Fischer relocated to Europe, where he started out as a freelance

journalist. He started working as a journalist for the progressive American
magazine The Nation and spent a lot of time in the Soviet Union, where he gave
in-depth reports on social and political changes there. His personal encounters
and conversations with influential Soviet figures, such as Joseph Stalin, gave
Western audiences unique insights into the inner workings of the Soviet
government.
Later in his work, Fischer developed a relationship with Mahatma Gandhi and
India. Fischer, who was much inspired by Gandhi's leadership style and
philosophy, traveled to India to conduct research on the Indian independence
struggle and Gandhi's biography. One of his most well-known biographies is
"The Life of Mahatma Gandhi," which was released in 1950. Gandhi is
portrayed in the book in a thorough and sympathetic manner, with a thorough
account of his personal life, his contribution to India's independence movement,
and his lasting legacy.
In addition to his work on Gandhi, Fischer authored several other important
books, including "The Soviets in World Affairs" and "The Great Challenge,"
which reflect his broad interest in international politics and social movements.
His writings are characterized by their deep analysis, clear prose, and
commitment to understanding the human aspects of political struggles.
Fischer gained respect and acclaim all around the world for his contributions to
literature and journalism. Louis Fischer's painstaking and passionate
documentation of some of the most important events and individuals of his day
has left a lasting legacy as a journalist and biographer.

Plotline: Indigo
The chapter "Indigo" from Louis Fischer's biography of Mahatma Gandhi
focuses on Gandhi's pivotal role in the Champaran Satyagraha of 1917. Gandhi
is approached by Rajkumar Shukla, a distressed peasant from Champaran, who
seeks his help against the oppressive indigo farming system enforced by British
planters. Upon arriving in Champaran, Gandhi conducts a thorough
investigation into the farmers' grievances, meeting with numerous peasants and
gathering evidence of their exploitation.

His presence alarms the British authorities, who order him to leave, but Gandhi
refuses and instead confronts the authorities in court, earning widespread local
support. Prominent lawyers like Dr. Rajendra Prasad and others join Gandhi,
bolstering the movement and attracting national attention. Under pressure, the
British government sets up an inquiry commission to investigate the farmers'
complaints, with Gandhi as a member. The commission's findings confirm the
exploitation, leading to the abolition of the Tinkathia system. This victory not
only liberates the farmers from the oppressive system but also marks a
significant triumph for nonviolent resistance. The success of the Champaran
Satyagraha boosts Gandhi's reputation as a leader and sets a precedent for future
movements, highlighting the power of civil disobedience and collective action in
challenging colonial rule. The chapter highlights Gandhi's dedication to justice
as well as how his leadership revolutionized India's struggle for freedom.
Some freedom movements of India
India's freedom movements and struggle, which included unrelenting attempts
to overthrow British colonial control and win independence, mark a pivotal
period in the history of the country. These movements, which lasted more than
a century, included a diverse spectrum of leaders and philosophies. Localized
riots and the establishment of political groups, such the INC in 1885, which
were instrumental in promoting self-governance, signified the onset of early
opposition. With the rise of famous leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, whose ideas
of nonviolent protest and civil disobedience inspired millions, the conflict grew
more intense in the 20th century. After a great deal of sacrifice and unwavering
determination, India gained independence on August 15, 1947, which signalled
the end of colonial rule and the start of a new era for the country.

- The revolt of 1857

this revolt was the conscious beginning of the Independence struggle against
the colonial tyranny of the British. The revolt began on May 10, 1857, at
Meerut as a sepoy mutiny. It was initiated by sepoys in the Bengal Presidency
against the British officers.

The immediate factor was the introduction of the ‘Enfield’ rifle. The cartridge
had to be bitten off before loading it into the gun. Indian sepoys believed that
the cartridge was greased with either pig fat or made from cow fat. This was
against the Hindu and Muslim sentiments. Thus they were reluctant to use the
‘Enfield’ rifle. This was a flashpoint to enrage the soldiers against the British.

Lord Canning tried to make amends for the error and the offending cartridges
were withdrawn but the damage had already been done. There was unrest in
several places. In March 1857, Mangal Pandey, a sepoy in Barrackpore, had
refused to use the cartridge and attacked his senior officers.

The revolt spread over the entire area from the neighbourhood of Patna to the
borders of Rajasthan. The main centres of revolt in these regions namely
Kanpur, Lucknow, Bareilly, Jhansi, Gwalior and Arrah in Bihar. The Revolt of
1857 lasted for more than a year. It was suppressed by the middle of 1858.

On July 8, 1858, fourteen months after the outbreak at Meerut, peace was
finally proclaimed by Lord Canning.

- Rowlatt act and jallianwala bagh massacre (1919)

The Rowlatt Act was also known as the Anarchical and Revolutionary Crimes
Act of 1919. It was in response to growing discontent and nationalist
movements in India. It aimed to suppress revolutionary activities and curb the
freedom struggle. This law was passed in March 1919 by the Imperial
Legislative Council which provided the colonial authorities with extensive
powers to imprison and detain individuals without trial.The Rowlatt Acts were
much resented by an aroused Indian public. All nonofficial Indian members of
the council voted against the acts. To abolish this act, Gandhi and the other
leaders called for a Hartal (suspension of work) to show Indians’ objection to
this rule, called the Rowlatt Satyagraha.

After passing the Rowlatt Act, the Punjab Government set out to suppress all
opposition. On April 13, 1919, the public had gathered to celebrate Baisakhi.
However, the British point of view indicated that it was a political gathering.
Inspite of General Dyer’s orders prohibiting unlawful assembly, people gathered
at Jallianwala Bagh. When the news reached him Brigadier-General Dyer,
headed to the Bagh with his troops. He entered the Bagh, deployed his troops
and ordered them to open fire without giving any warning. People rushed to the
exits but Dyer directed his soldiers to fire at the exit. The firing continued for
10-15 minutes. Reports included that of a committee headed by Madan Mohan
Malviya put the figure of dead at over 500.

- Simon Commission (1928)

The Simon Commission, formally known as the Indian Statutory Commission,
was established by the British government in 1927 to review the functioning of
the constitutional system in India and suggest reforms. Composed entirely of
British members and chaired by Sir John Simon, the commission faced
immediate backlash as it included no Indian representatives.

This led to widespread protests across India, famously captured by the slogan
"Simon Go Back." The commission's arrival intensified demands for complete
independence, and the lack of Indian inclusion was seen as a direct affront to
Indian self-governance aspirations. Despite the commission's recommendations,
the Simon Commission's legacy is largely viewed as a catalyst for the Indian
independence movement, underscoring the disconnect between British
authorities and Indian nationalist sentiments.

In Lahore, on October 30, 1928 Lala Lajpat Rai, a well-known zealous supporter
of independence, led a nonviolent protest against the Simon Commission. In
order to disperse the protestors, the police used a harsh lathi charge, under
orders from Britishers. In this attack, Lala Lajpat Rai suffered severe injuries.
Even after, he persisted in agitating for the independence of India. His passing
fueled the Indian independence movement and heightened anti-British feelings.

Champaran Satyagraha (1917)

Champaran is a district in Bihar's northwestern region. Champaran had been
growing indigo since the late 18th century. By 1850, indigo had surpassed sugar
as the most important crop grown in Champaran.

The tinkathia system was the dominant and most prevalent system of Indigo
cultivation in Champaran by European planters. According to it, the factory
owners convinced the tenant to grow indigo in a specific area of his holding for
which a fixed price was paid. During 1860, the portion reserved for indigo used
to be 5 Kathas per bigha or one-fourth of the tenant’s holding. Later, around
1867, this area was reduced from 5 Kathas to 3 Kathas per bigha.

In Bihar, as in Bengal, there was widespread dissatisfaction among the ryots

regarding indigo cultivation because of this system.

it was because of the low crop remuneration they received. They were also
subjected to harassment and oppression. All of this resulted in two protests
against indigo cultivation in Champaran. First, in 1867, the tenants of the
Lalsariya factory refused to cultivate indigo.

Gandhi in action
On April 15, 1917, Mahatma Gandhi arrived in Champaran for the first time and
wrote to the Magistrate that he would not leave Champaran and was willing to
pay the penalty for disobedience.

Gandhi was also charged and summoned for a trial on the 18th of April.
Gandhiji continued his investigation after receiving permission from the
Lieutenant Governor, first in Motihari and then in Bettiah. The Bihar Planters'
Association, however, strongly objected to the investigation, arguing that it
presented an inaccurate picture and may encourage ryots to attack them. The
tinkathia system was abolished on March 4, 1918.

Significance
The Champaran Movement, led by Mahatma Gandhi in 1917, holds significant
importance in India's freedom struggle. It was Gandhi's first major political
action in India, showcasing his method of nonviolent resistance and civil
disobedience. The movement successfully addressed the exploitation of indigo
farmers by British planters, leading to the abolition of the oppressive Tinkathia
system. This victory not only improved the lives of the peasants but also
galvanized the Indian populace, inspiring widespread support for the broader
independence movement. The Champaran Satyagraha marked the beginning of
Gandhi's leadership in India's fight for freedom and established the effectiveness
of nonviolent protest.

Condition of Farmers
THEN
Mahatma Gandhi led the Champaran Satyagraha in 1917, which exposed the
dire circumstances that farmers in Champaran, Bihar endured while living under
British colonial control. These farmers' condition was marked by extreme
exploitation, economic distress, and injustice in society.

Economic Exploitation
 - Farmers were forced to grow indigo on 3/20th (approximately 15%) of
their land under the Tinkathia system, regardless of their wishes or the
suitability of the soil. The Tinkathia system was imposed by British
planters who wanted to secure indigo production for export to Europe,
where it was in high demand as a dye
- The planters fixed the exponentially low prices for indigo, which
hindered the farmers from turning a profit. The expenses of farming had
to be paid by the farmers as well, which further reduced their already
poor income.

Social Injustice
- To obtain compliance, the planters threatened and used force and farmers who
refused to comply faced assault as well as legal penalties. many of them suffered
beatings, imprisonment, or property seizures.

- Severe poverty resulted from the economic exploitation. Farmers had little
access to food, clothing, and shelter and lived in extreme poverty. Major
problems with health and sanitation were made worse by a lack of government
assistance and resources.

The conditions of the farmers at the time of the Champaran Satyagraha were
marked by severe oppression. Gandhi’s intervention through the Champaran
Satyagraha not only highlighted these injustices but also set in motion a series of
events that eventually led to significant reforms and a renewed sense of hope
and dignity for the oppressed farmers.

NOW
The condition of farmers in India today is a mix of progress and ongoing
challenges. While there have been significant advancements in agricultural
practices and policies aimed at improving farmers' livelihoods, many farmers
continue to face substantial difficulties.

Economic Challenges
- Many farmers still struggle with low and unstable incomes. Despite
government schemes aimed at increasing agricultural profitability, many farmers
remain trapped in cycles of debt.

- Due to Lack of direct access to markets forces many farmers to sell their
produce to middlemen at lower prices, reducing their overall earnings.
- Access to affordable credit is limited, leading many to rely on informal
moneylenders with high-interest rates.

Agricultural Practices
- Overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has led to soil degradation and
reduced fertility in some areas. Climate change poses a significant threat, with
irregular rainfall, droughts, etc.
- While there has been a push towards modernization, many small and marginal
farmers still lack access to advanced agricultural technology, infrastructure,
irrigation facilities, storage infrastructure.

Government Policies and Support

- The government provides various subsidies and support programs, such as
minimum support prices (MSP) for certain crops, crop insurance schemes, and
direct benefit transfers but are often limited by bureaucratic hurdles and
corruption.
- Recent attempts to reform agricultural laws have led to widespread protests,
reflecting the concerns and distrust among farmers regarding market
liberalization.

The condition of farmers in India today is a complex mix of progress and

ongoing struggles. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach,
involving sustainable agricultural practices, improved infrastructure, effective
policy implementation, and enhanced education and healthcare services for
farming communities.

Farm Bill Agitation

The Farm Bill Agitation refers to the widespread protests that erupted in India
following the introduction of three agricultural bills by the central government
in September 2020. Significant dissatisfaction among farmers has resulted from
these extremely contentious bills that try to overhaul the agricultural sector.

1. The Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and

Facilitation) Bill, 2020
promoted barrier-free interstate and intrastate trade of farmers' produce outside
the actual market yards (mandis), which are governed by Agricultural Produce
Market Committees (APMCs). The goal was to establish an ecosystem where
farmers and traders could enjoy the freedom of choice in the sale and purchase
of agricultural produce.

2. The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price

Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020
aimed to shift the risk of market fluctuation from the farmer to the sponsor by
providing a framework for contract farming, which enabled farmers to engage
into direct agreements with buyers prior to the production .

3. The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, 2020

Eliminated a number of goods from the list of necessities, including cereals,
pulses, oilseeds, edible oils, onions, and potatoes. Instead, the goal was to create
in private capital and foreign direct investment to the agricultural industry.
The Agitation
1. Rallies and Protests
Farmers from Punjab and Haryana in particular organized large-scale marches,
demonstrations, and protests calling for the abolition of the farm rules.
Numerous tractor rallies and statewide strikes (known as the Bharat Bandh)
were part of the protests, which drew enormous numbers of participants.

2. Protests at the Delhi Border

A barrier was formed by thousands of farmers who marched towards Delhi and
set up camp at its boundaries, especially in Singhu, Tikri, and Ghazipur. They
vowed to remain until their demands were met.

Outcomes
In January 2021, the Supreme Court of India stayed the implementation of the
farm laws and appointed a committee to resolve the impasse.
On November 19, 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the
government would repeal the three farm laws. The repeal process was completed
in Parliament later that year, marking a significant victory for the protesting
farmers.

The farming community's enduring worries about market reforms were brought
to light by the Farm Bill Agitation. The laws were eventually repealed as a result
of persistent rallies, demonstrating the value of group action. In order to ensure
that the concerns of small and marginal farmers are safeguarded, this movement
also highlights the importance of pursuing a more inclusive approach to
agricultural changes.

Farmer Protection Laws

India has a variety of laws and policies designed to protect and promote the
interests of farmers. These laws address various aspects of agricultural
production, marketing, and support to ensure the welfare of farmers and the
sustainability of agriculture.

- Minimum Support Price (MSP) System

 Purpose: The MSP is a government-guaranteed price at which the

government purchases crops from farmers, regardless of the market price.
 Key Features:
o Covers major crops like wheat, rice, pulses, and oilseeds.
o Aimed at ensuring farmers get a minimum profit for their harvest,
protecting them from market price fluctuations.

- Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) Act

 Purpose: Regulates the sale and purchase of agricultural produce,

ensuring farmers are not exploited by intermediaries.
  Key Features:
o Mandis (markets) are established under this act where farmers can
sell their produce.
o APMCs are responsible for regulating the trading activities,
ensuring fair trade practices and timely payments to farmers.

- Crop Insurance Schemes

 Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY):

o Purpose: Provides insurance coverage and financial support to
farmers in the event of crop failure due to natural calamities, pests,
and diseases.
o Key Features:
 Premium rates are kept low for farmers, with the remaining
premium being borne by the government.
 Ensures prompt claim settlement to enable farmers to recover
from crop losses and continue farming.

- Fertilizer Subsidy:
Purpose: Ensures the availability of fertilizers to farmers at affordable
prices.
Key Features:
o The government provides subsidies directly to fertilizer
manufacturers, who in turn sell fertilizers to farmers at subsidized
rates.

- Soil Health Card Scheme

Purpose: Promote soil health by providing soil health cards to farmers,
detailing the nutrient status of their soil and recommendations for
appropriate dosage of fertilizers.

 Key Features:
o Encourages balanced use of fertilizers, enhancing soil fertility and
productivity.

India's framework of farmer protection laws is extensive to ensure the

welfare of farmers. While these laws and schemes provide crucial support
to the agricultural sector, their effective implementation remains a key to
realizing their full potential.

Autobiography: Bhagat Singh

Born on 28 September 1907 in Lyallpur, western Punjab, India (present-day
Pakistan) in a Sikh family, Bhagat Singh was the second son of Kishan Singh
Sandhu and Vidya Vati. His grandfather Arjan Singh, father Kishan Singh and
uncle Ajit Singh were actively involved in the Indian independence movement.
After studying in a village school for a couple of years, he attended an Anglo-
Vedic school in Lahore, operated by Arya Samaj. In 1923, he was admitted to
the National College in Lahore which was founded by the Indian Independence
activist Lala Lajpat Rai. Bhagat Singh too was active in India’s freedom
struggle. He visited the site of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre hours after
thousands were killed by General Dyer.

Major Deeds
- Saunders' Assassination (1928)
On 30 October 1928, the Simon Commission visited Lahore. In a bid to disperse
the demonstrators, the Superintendent of Police, James A. Scott, ordered a lathi
charge in which Rai was grievously injured. Rai died of a heart attack on 17
November 1928. Bhagat Singh and two other revolutionaries, Sukhdev and
Rajguru, planned to assassinate the Superintendent of Police in order to
avenge for Lala Lajpat Rai's death. But on December 17, 1928, while British
Police Officer John Saunders was leaving the District Police Headquarters in
Lahore, Bhagat Singh killed him due to mistaken identity.

Bhagat Singh had to leave Lahore shortly after this due to a huge search effort,
and in order to avoid being recognized, he had to shave his head and beard.

The Bombing of Central Assembly Hall

On 8 April 1929, Bhagat Singh accompanied by Batukeshwar Dutt, threw two
bombs into the Assembly chamber from its public gallery while it was in
session. The bombs injured the members of the Assembly. The chaos and
confusion created thereafter gave the window to both of them to escape the
Assembly Hall, but they stayed there and shouted the popular catchphrase
‘Inquilab Zindabad!’. Subsequently, Singh and Dutt were arrested and moved
through a series of jails in Delhi.

Bhagat Singh was a fervent advocate of socialism and secularism. His notable
work, "Why I Am an Atheist," reflects his rationalist beliefs. His writings from
jail highlight his vision for a just and egalitarian society.

Ideologies and Influences

Revolutionary leaders like Karl Marx, Lenin, and Bhagat Singh's personal idol,
Kartar Singh Sarabha, had a significant impact on Bhagat Singh. His strong
commitment to overthrow the capitalist system and his strong belief in socialism
influenced his radical views. He believed that economic liberation was just as
crucial as political freedom in achieving true independence for India, and
socialism was the means to that objective. For his day, Bhagat Singh held
unconventional ideals, and the public responded favorably to his writings and
speeches.

Trial, Detention, and Execution by Martyrdom

In 1928, Singh was detained alongside his fellow revolutionaries and accused of
killing a British police officer. He refused to ask the British government for
forgiveness, instead he utilized the trial to voice his opinions on independence
and socialism. Bhagat Singh and his friends received a death sentence despite
strong calls for their release on a national and international level.

Death
on March 23, 1931, at the age of 23, he attained martyrdom, becoming a symbol
of sacrifice and bravery in the quest for freedom.

Experience gained
Working on a project about the Champaran Satyagraha provided a rich learning
experience. I gained a deep understanding of early 20th-century India and the
exploitation of indigo farmers under British rule. Exploring Gandhi's nonviolent
resistance and leadership illuminated his impact on the independence movement.

Researching primary sources improved my analytical skills, while critical

analysis of historical events highlighted the importance of context. The project
deepened my empathy for the farmers' struggles and my appreciation for social
justice. Presenting findings enhanced my communication skills, and drawing
parallels between past and present underscored the relevance of historical study.

Collaborative work taught me the value of teamwork and community

engagement. Overall, this project enriched my historical knowledge and
developed valuable research, critical thinking, and communication skills.

Conclusion
The Champaran Satyagraha project, based on the "Indigo" chapter from the
Class 12 English textbook, has been an enlightening experience. It provided
deep insights into the exploitation of indigo farmers under British rule and
Mahatma Gandhi's pivotal role in the Indian independence movement. We
learned about the power of nonviolent resistance and the importance of effective
leadership.

This project enhanced our research, analytical, and communication skills. It

underscored the significance of understanding historical context and the impact
of collective action. Overall, the Champaran Satyagraha project offered valuable
lessons in justice, leadership, and nonviolent resistance, which are relevant both
historically and in today's world.

Bibliography
- indianculture.gov.in
- www.drishtiias.com
- byjus.com
- www.nonviolent-conflict.org
- en.wikipedia.org
- www.britannica.com
- unacademy.com
- pwonlyias.com
- www.downtoearth.org.in