Q. Which one of the following is the most significant contribution of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to modern India?
(a) His participation in the Quit India Movement
(b) His role in the Non-Cooperation Movement
(c) His achievement of the integration of princely states
(d) His Presidentship of the Indian National Congress
Ans: (c) His achievement of the integration of princely states
Explanation: The most significant contribution of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to modern India was (c) his achievement of the integration of princely states.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, also known as the Iron Man of India, played a crucial role in the integration of princely states into the newly independent India following India’s partition and independence from British rule in 1947.
At the time of independence, India consisted of numerous princely states that had their own rulers and enjoyed varying degrees of autonomy. The process of integrating these princely states into the Indian Union was a complex and challenging task. Sardar Patel, as the first Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs of independent India, led this monumental effort.
Using a combination of negotiation, diplomacy, and, when necessary, coercion, Sardar Patel successfully persuaded the majority of princely states to join the Indian Union. Through his skillful diplomacy, he convinced rulers and regional leaders to merge their states into India, thereby preventing the fragmentation of the country.
Sardar Patel’s achievement of the integration of princely states was a significant contribution to modern India. It laid the foundation for a united and strong India, providing political and geographical coherence to the nation. His efforts helped in consolidating the diverse territories into a single nation, ensuring the integrity and unity of India as we see it today.
While Sardar Patel’s participation in the Quit India Movement, his role in the Non-Cooperation Movement, and his Presidentship of the Indian National Congress were important aspects of his political career, his achievement in integrating the princely states stands out as his most significant contribution to modern India.
