Gandhiji introduced new ideals in politics and adopted novel methods to give a different direction to the National Movement. In this context, answer the following :

(a) Any two social reforms advocated by Mahatma Gandhi.

(b) His doctrine of Swadeshi.

(c) His doctrine of Non-violence.

(a) Two social reforms advocated by Mahatma Gandhi are:

1. Eradication of Untouchability — Gandhiji called the untouchables 'Harijans' and launched movements to remove all restrictions imposed on them. Under his guidance the Congress adopted the programme for the upliftment of the Harijans and enlisted their support for the National Movement.
2. Promotion of Women's Welfare — Gandhiji advocated the rights of women and stood for giving them equal rights and status with men. He inspired them to play an important role in the National Movement and take an active part in the political affairs of the country.

(b) Gandhiji devised the weapon of the Swadeshi to drive the British out of India. Swadeshi movement was to promote self-reliance and reduce dependence on British goods. It aimed to revive traditional crafts and promote local industries. By supporting Indian products, people could strengthen their own economy. Gandhiji emphasised the use of Charkha and Khadi to improve the life of the poor in India. He advocated the establishment of cottage industries to remove unemployment and poverty in the countryside. He launched the Swadeshi Movement because he was of the view that political freedom is meaningless without economic freedom.

(c) Gandhiji believed in the principle of Non-violence or Ahimsa. He never believed that non-violence was a weapon of the strong, powerful and mighty individuals. According to Gandhiji, true love, dauntlessness, inner purity and feeling of selflessness form the basis of non-violence (Ahimsa). It is not a negative but a positive and active force. He maintained that it is the lack of power that makes a person coward as he hits others out of fear. But a non-violent person armed with moral strength can walk on a sword's edge. He inspired the unarmed people of India to fight against the mighty British Empire and win freedom.