Describe the major movements led by Mahatma Gandhi between 1920 and 1947.
In short
Between 1920 and 1947 Gandhi led three major mass movements: Non-Cooperation (1920-1922), Civil Disobedience (1930-1934) beginning with the Salt March, and Quit India (1942) with its call of "Do or Die". Together they made the Congress a mass organisation and set the stage for independence in 1947.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 236 words
Non-Cooperation Movement
Triggered by the Rowlatt Act and Jallianwala Bagh massacre, it promoted boycott of British goods and institutions, Khadi, and Hindu-Muslim unity, involving peasants, workers, and women.
Civil Disobedience Movement
Initiated by the Salt March (1930), it involved peaceful law-breaking, refusal to pay taxes, and mass participation of women and peasants, broadening the base of the national movement.
Quit India Movement
Launched in 1942 with the “Do or Die” slogan, it demanded immediate British exit, using mass protests and strikes despite brutal repression and imprisonment of leaders.
Non-Cooperation Movement
It transformed the Congress into a mass organization and promoted social reforms like eradicating untouchability, despite ending after Chauri Chaura.
Civil Disobedience Movement
It revitalized the freedom struggle, led to the Gandhi-Irwin Pact, and brought international attention to India’s cause.
Quit India Movement
Though suppressed, it weakened British authority and united diverse groups, setting the stage for independence.
Strengthen Gandhian Values
Promote non-violence and trusteeship principles for governance and social welfare.
Revive Constructive Programs
Support Swadeshi and Gram Swaraj ideals for sustainable development.
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This chapter in the exam
Indian Nationalism in Three Phases; Independence, Partition and After22 questions
Asked in 8 of 8 sittings since 2008
Most tested: Gandhian mass movements and their impact, alongside peasant mobilisation and communalism/partition.
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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2025 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.