Indigo Long Answer Type Question

This page offers Indigo long answer type question for Class 12 from the book Flamingo. We’ve put together a bunch of long answer type question based on assumption, creativity, extrapolation and critical thinking. These types of questions are introduced after 2024 in CBSE Board. So, practice to understand Indigo long answer type question

1. Question: Why do you think Rajkumar Shukla was so determined in following Gandhi everywhere in the chapter “Indigo,” and what does this tell us about his character? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: Rajkumar Shukla was determined to follow Gandhi ji everywhere because he wanted justice for the Champaran peasants. Shukla believed that only Gandhi’s influence and support could bring the change.

It also shows his strong will to seek justice. Even though Shukla was a poor and uneducated farmer, he didn’t give up on his mission. He followed Gandhi everywhere, showing his strong dedication to the cause.

This determination ultimately led to Gandhi’s involvement. It brought important changes for the Champaran peasants. Shukla’s actions show his deep concern for his fellow peasants. It also shows his willingness to improve their lives.

This tells us that Shukla was not only determined but also brave and selfless. His character teaches us the importance of determination and never giving up, no matter how difficult the journey may be. His persistence played a key role in bringing Gandhi to Champaran.

Also Read:

2. Question: In the chapter “Indigo”, how did Gandhi’s polite and friendly behaviour make the officials feel powerless without his cooperation, and what does this teach us about leadership? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: Gandhi’s polite and friendly behaviour made the officials feel powerless because it showed his strength without being scary. By staying calm and respectful, he showed he was not afraid of their power. This confused the officials and made them see that their power could be challenged. Gandhi taught that real strength comes from being calm and firm.

This teaches us that good leadership is not about being forceful. It is about being calm, respectful, and smart. It also showed that unfair power can be challenged without fighting. Gandhi showed that we can stand up for what is right by staying polite and friendly. This attitude can bring real and positive change. Leaders can earn trust and inspire others to follow them by remaining composed and kind.

3. Question: Why did the peasants want their money back after learning about synthetic indigo, and what does this situation reveal about the exploitation they faced in the chapter “Indigo”? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: The peasants wanted their money back after learning about synthetic indigo because they realised they had been unfairly exploited by the landlords. The landlords had forced them to grow indigo. Even though synthetic indigo made the natural indigo less valuable, they demanded compensation to release them from this duty. The peasants felt cheated and deceived.

This situation shows how badly the peasants were treated. The landlords took advantage of the peasants’ lack of knowledge and education. It shows how the peasants were tricked and forced to follow unfair rules. The landlords cared more about making money than the well-being of the peasants. They use their power to stay in control and increase their profits.

4. Question: In the chapter “Indigo,” how did Gandhi’s refusal to leave Champaran impact the movement, and what does this tell us about the power of nonviolent resistance? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: Gandhi’s refusal to leave Champaran had a big impact on the movement. His act showed his strong commitment to the cause and inspired the peasants to stay strong. This nonviolent resistance drew attention to the peasants’ problems and put pressure on the British authorities.

This tells us about the power of nonviolent resistance. Gandhi’s peaceful approach proved that one could challenge authority without using violence. It showed that standing strong on principles and using peaceful means can be very powerful. Nonviolent resistance can gain support and sympathy.

Gandhi’s actions in Champaran brought unity and confidence. It taught peasants that they could fight unfair treatment through peaceful ways. This strategy helped achieve their goals and set an example for future movements in India’s fight for independence.

5. Question: What lessons about unity and collective action can be learned from the peasants’ support for Gandhi at the courthouse in the chapter “Indigo”? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: The peasants’ support for Gandhi at the courthouse teaches us important lessons about unity and collective action. When Gandhi was ordered to leave Champaran, thousands of peasants gathered to show their support. This unity shows their strong commitment and their trust in Gandhi’s leadership.

This act had a significant impact. It made the British authorities realise that the peasants were united and determined. It makes it difficult for them to ignore their demands. The large gathering also gave Gandhi the strength and confidence to continue his fight for justice.

The lesson here is that unity and collective action can increase the voice against injustice and bring about meaningful change.The unity is a powerful tool in the fight against injustice.

6. Question: In the chapter “Indigo”, how do you think the success of Gandhi’s mission influenced other freedom fighters in India? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: The success of Gandhi’s mission in Champaran greatly influenced other freedom fighters in India. It showed the power of nonviolent resistance and peaceful methods could achieve significant change. Gandhi’s approach of refusing violence but standing strong inspired others to adopt similar strategies.

The movement also showed the importance of unity and collective action. The way the peasants supported Gandhi showed that gathering the people could lead to success. This encouraged other freedom fighters to become involved with common people and unite them for the cause of independence.

Also the victory in Champaran increased spirit among freedom fighters. It showed a successful example of how determination and strategic nonviolent action could bring justice. This success gave hope and motivation to many other fighters for India’s independence. Gandhi’s victory became a model for future struggles against British rule.

7. Question: How does Gandhi’s approach to solving the peasants’ problems in Champaran teach us about the importance of understanding local issues in the chapter “Indigo”? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: Gandhi’s approach to solving the peasants’ problems in Champaran teaches us the importance of understanding local issues. When Gandhi arrived, he did not confront the authorities right away. Instead, he spent time learning about the peasants’ lives and their specific problems.

This shows that to solve a problem well, you need to understand it completely from the ground level. Gandhi’s deep understanding helped him find real and practical solutions. This also helped build trust and unity among the peasants.

Gandhi’s method teaches us that solutions should fit the specific needs of the people affected. Knowing local issues helps create good plans that are likely to succeed and make real changes. This approach can be used for many social and political problems, showing the need for empathy, patience, and thorough understanding.

8. Question: Why was it significant that Gandhi insisted on being involved in the commission of inquiry in the chapter “Indigo, and what does this tell us about his commitment to justice”? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: It was important that Gandhi insisted on being involved in the commission of inquiry because it showed he wanted to make sure the peasants’ voices were heard. His involvement could directly represent the peasants and make sure their problems were not ignored. His involvement also meant the investigation would be fair.

This shows Gandhi’s strong commitment to justice. He was not satisfied with just talking about the problems but he wanted real change. Gandhi wanted to make sure the landlords were held responsible and the peasants’ suffering was addressed properly.

Gandhi’s actions showed that true leadership means standing by those who are abused and fighting for their rights. This commitment to justice and fairness made Gandhi a respected leader. His dedication inspired others to seek justice and fight against abuse.

9. Question: How did Gandhi’s actions in Champaran in the chapter “Indigo” redefine the concept of leadership for the Indian people? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: Gandhi’s actions in Champaran changed the idea of leadership for the Indian people. Before Gandhi, leaders were often seen as powerful and authoritative. Gandhi showed that true leaders should be caring, brave, and non-violent.

In Champaran, Gandhi lived with the peasants, listened to their problems, and fought for their rights. He showed that a leader must understand the people’s struggles and stand with them. His non-violent approach taught that leaders can achieve great things without using force.

Gandhi’s dedication to justice and his ability to unite people around a common cause inspired many. He proved that a leader’s strength comes from caring about the people they serve. This new idea of leadership became a guiding principle for many Indians in their fight for independence. Gandhi’s approach in Champaran set a powerful example for future movements and leaders.

10. Question: What other reforms could Gandhi have introduced in Champaran in the chapter “Indigo” to further improve the lives of the peasants, and how might these have changed their future? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: Gandhi could have introduced several other reforms in Champaran to help the peasants. One important reform could have been setting up vocational training centres. These centres could teach peasants new skills. These skills include carpentry, weaving, or modern farming techniques.

Another reform could have been forming cooperatives. By working together, peasants could buy seeds and tools at lower prices and sell their products for better prices. This would also make them less dependent on landlords.

Gandhi could also have focused on improving healthcare and sanitation in the villages. Better healthcare and sanitation would reduce diseases and make the community healthier.

These reforms would have made the peasants more self-reliant and empowered. With new skills, economic cooperation, and better health their future would have been brighter and more secure.

11. Question: How might the Champaran movement in the chapter “Indigo” have been different if Gandhi had not insisted on using non-violent methods? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: If Gandhi had not used non-violent methods, the Champaran movement might have been very different. Violence could have led to severe punishments by the British. This could have caused fear and bloodshed. Many peasants might have been too scared to continue the fight. This would have weakened their resolve.

Using violence would have given the British a reason to call the peasants lawbreakers. It would have made it easier for them to crack down harder on the movement. This could have made the movement lose support from other Indians and people around the world.

Non-violence showed the strength and discipline of the peasants. It gained sympathy and support from many people who admired Gandhi’s peaceful approach. Overall, non-violence was very important for the success of the Champaran movement. It proved that even the most powerful rulers could be challenged through peaceful means.

12. Question: What might have happened if the local lawyers in Champaran had decided not to support Gandhi and the peasants in the chapter “Indigo”? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: If the local lawyers in Champaran had not supported Gandhi and the peasants, the movement might have faced many difficulties. The peasants would have struggled to present their case well. The British landlords and authorities might have dismissed their complaints easily.

The local lawyers gave legitimacy to the movement. They helped gather evidence and prepare legal documents. They also present a strong case against the landlords. The movement might have lacked strength without their help.

The lawyers’ support also boosted the morale of the peasants. Knowing that educated professionals stood with them gave the peasants confidence and hope. Otherwise, the peasants might have felt isolated and less motivated to continue their struggle.

In summary, the local lawyers’ support was important for the success of the Champaran movement. They provided legal expertise, legitimacy, and moral support.

13. Question: How would the result of the Champaran movement in the chapter “Indigo” have changed if Gandhi had accepted a compromise with the British landlords? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: If Gandhi had accepted a compromise with the British landlords, the Champaran movement’s result might have been weaker. A quick compromise could have given some relief to the peasants, but it would not have fixed the main issues. The landlords might have kept finding ways to exploit the peasants.

Accepting a compromise could have also weakened the peasants’ spirit. It might have shown that limited solutions were enough, instead of fighting for full justice. This could have discouraged other movements from seeking complete change and reduced people’s confidence in non-violent resistance.

Gandhi’s choice to wait for a better solution secure that the peasants’ problems were fully solved. It also set a strong example for future movements. It shows the importance of determination and not settling for less. Gandhi showed that true justice needs full and fair solutions.

14. Question: If Gandhi had focused only on the immediate issue of the indigo farmers in the chapter “Indigo”, how might the long-term impact on Champaran have differed? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: If Gandhi had focused only on the immediate issue of the indigo farmers the long-term impact on Champaran might have been limited. It might have provided temporary relief to the indigo farmers, but many other issues like poor health, lack of education, and economic hardships would have remained the same. Their overall living conditions might not have improved much without addressing these issues. The cycle of poverty and exploitation could have continued.

If Gandhi had not worked on these issues, the peasants might have continued to struggle with many problems. Also the movement’s success would have been short-lived. Gandhi’s approach ensured that the benefits of the movement were long-lasting and transformative for the entire community. In conclusion, addressing the broader issues was important for creating a sustainable and positive change in Champaran.

15. Question: What could have been the consequences if the British authorities had decided to imprison Gandhi for a longer period during the Champaran movement in the chapter “Indigo”? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: If the British authorities had imprisoned Gandhi for a longer time during the Champaran movement, the peasants might have felt discouraged and scared without their leader. This could have weakened their will to fight.

However, Gandhi’s long imprisonment could have also made more people angry and united against the British. Seeing Gandhi in jail for standing up for justice might have inspired more people to join the movement. It might have increased support and pressure on the British.

It could have also brought more attention to the Champaran peasants’ problems around the world. This increased awareness might have forced the British to address the issues more fairly. While a longer imprisonment could have been challenging, it also had the potential to unite more people and bring more attention to the cause.

16. Question: How does Gandhi’s approach in the chapter “Indigo” show the importance of empathy in leadership, and how can modern leaders apply this lesson? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: Gandhi’s approach in Champaran shows the importance of empathy in leadership. When he arrived in Champaran, he took the time to listen to the peasants and understand their problems. He involved the peasants in the process, making them feel valued and heard.

Modern leaders can apply this lesson by actively listening to the people they lead. Understanding their needs, concerns, and struggles is important. Leaders should show genuine care and take actions that reflect their commitment. By doing so, they can build strong relationships based on trust and respect.

Empathy in leadership also means being patient and open-minded, willing to see things from others’ perspectives. This approach can inspire and motivate people, fostering a sense of community and collaboration that is vital for achieving common goals.

17. Question: What can we learn from Gandhi’s use of non-violent resistance in the chapter “Indigo,” about handling conflicts and disagreement in today’s world? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: Gandhi’s use of non-violent resistance teaches us that peaceful methods can effectively handle conflicts and disagreement. Gandhi faced the British landlords and authorities without using violence. This approach helped him gain sympathy and support from people. In today’s world, we can apply this lesson by using a nonviolent approach to social issues. By prioritising dialogue and understanding over aggression. Non-violent resistance encourages peaceful negotiations. It helps find solutions that respect everyone’s rights. Non-violent resistance also shows the power of standing firm on principles without using violence. It shows that strength comes from belief and moral courage. We can also address conflicts in a way that promotes harmony and justice. Gandhi’s example shows that non-violence is not only morally right but also effective in achieving justice and equality.

18. Question: How did the unity of the Champaran peasants contribute to the success of their movement in the chapter “Indigo”, and what does this teach us about the power of collective action? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: The unity of the Champaran peasants was important to the success of their movement. When the peasants came together to support Gandhi, it showed their collective strength and determination. It made it difficult for the British authorities to ignore their demands.

It also gave Gandhi the confidence and support he needed to continue his efforts. This teaches us about the power of collective action. When people come together, their combined efforts can create significant change.

Unity increases their voices and makes their demands more powerful. It also provides a sense of harmony and shared purpose, which strengthens the resolve to achieve their goals. Collective action can overcome even the most challenging problems by showing that the group is committed and determined.

It shows the importance of working together and supporting each other. The Champaran movement is a clear example of how unity can lead to success.

19. Question: In what ways did Gandhi’s involvement in the commission of inquiry in the chapter “Indigo” reflect his commitment to justice, and how can we apply this commitment in our own lives? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: Gandhi’s involvement in the commission of inquiry showed his strong commitment to justice. By being part of the commission, he made sure the peasants’ voices were heard. He wanted their problems taken seriously. Gandhi did not want the landlords or British officials to control the inquiry. He wanted to ensure the investigation was fair and honest.

This teaches us to get involved when we see something unfair happening. We should not stand by quietly when people are treated badly. Instead, we should work to make sure everyone is treated fairly and with respect. In our own lives, we can apply this by speaking up when we see someone being mistreated. We should support fair rules and processes. Like Gandhi, we can help create a fair and just society by being active and committed to justice for all.

20. Question: How does the Champaran movement in the chapter “Indigo” show the importance of moral courage in bringing social change, and how can we build moral courage in our own actions? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: The Champaran movement shows the importance of moral courage in bringing social change. Gandhi and the peasants stood up against the British authorities without using violence.

They showed great courage and determination in their fight for justice. They stayed peaceful and strong in their resolve. This courage inspired many people to join the Champaran movement and support their fight. It also showed the British that their wrong actions would not be accepted.

Moral courage means standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult or dangerous. We can build moral courage in our own actions by speaking out against wrongs and helping those who are treated badly.

This means being strong enough to stand up for what is right. We can practise empathy, understanding others’ struggles, and taking action to help. By doing this, we can make positive social changes.

21. Question: How did the Champaran movement in the chapter “Indigo” inspire other parts of India to fight against British rule? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: The Champaran movement inspired other parts of India to fight against British rule. Gandhi’s success in Champaran showed that non-violent methods could bring real change. This gave hope to people in other regions that they could challenge British authority without using violence.

The movement showed that when people unite and stand strong on their principles, they can achieve great results. Gandhi’s way of understanding the issues and involving local people set an example for future movements. It taught that empathy, patience, and strong moral values are important in the fight for justice.

As news of the success of the Champaran movement spread, it motivated other leaders and communities. The Champaran movement showed that peaceful resistance could bring big changes. It inspired the nation to fight for freedom.

22. Question: If the Champaran movement from the chapter “Indigo” happened today with social media, how would it be different? How modern technology could help share the message and get support. Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: If the Champaran movement happened today with social media, it would be very different. Social media could help share the message quickly and to many people. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram would let people share information about the movement worldwide.

Videos and photos of the peasants’ struggles and Gandhi’s efforts could go viral. This would create sympathy and support from people everywhere. Social media campaigns could get more support and make authorities act faster.

Modern technology would also make organising easier. Online petitions, virtual meetings, and planned protests could be done more easily. Supporters from different places could join the cause. This would make the movement bigger and stronger.

Social media influencers and activists could use their platforms to spread the movement’s message. Overall, social media would make the Champaran movement more visible, easier to organise, and better at getting lots of support.

Note- Following are the old types questions with answers for the chapter “Indigo” These were asked till 2023-24 session. They focus more on memory rather than assumption and extrapolation. They are still useful.

1. Question: Why did Gandhi consider freedom from fear more important than legal justice for the poor peasants of Champaran in the chapter “Indigo”? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: Gandhi thought freedom from fear was more important than legal justice for the poor peasant because fear kept them under control. The peasants were scared of the British landlords and their power. This fear made them accept unfair treatment and kept them quiet.

Gandhi knew that even if they won legal battles, the peasants would still be controlled by fear. He believed that real change would only happen if the peasants were no longer afraid. By standing up to the British without fear, the peasants could gain confidence and strength.

Gandhi’s focus was on making the peasants feel strong. He wanted them to realise their own power and rights. When the peasants overcame their fear, they could fight for justice and improve their lives. Freedom from fear was the first step to true independence for the peasants.

Question: In the chapter “Indigo,” how did civil disobedience succeed during Gandhi’s stay in Champaran? Describe the events that led to the success? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: Gandhi visited Champaran to help poor peasants. At Motihari, thousands welcomed him, starting their freedom from fear. A peasant was mistreated in a nearby village. Gandhi went to see him, but the police stopped him and ordered him to return. Gandhi obeyed. At home, he got an official notice to leave Champaran. Gandhi signed it but wrote that he would not obey. This started civil disobedience.

The next day, Gandhi was called to court. Many peasants filled the courtroom to support him. They wanted to help the ‘Mahatma’ who was in trouble for helping them. The officials felt powerless. Gandhi helped them control the crowd, confusing the officials.

The magistrate postponed the sentence and asked Gandhi to post bail. Gandhi refused. The judge released him without bail and delayed the judgement. Later, the case was dropped by the Lt. Governor. Civil disobedience had succeeded.

3. Question: In the chapter “Indigo,” why did Rajkumar Shukla invite Gandhi to Champaran? How did Gandhiji solve the problem of the indigo farmers? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: Rajkumar Shukla was a poor peasant who asked Gandhi to visit Champaran and told him about the problems of the sharecroppers. Gandhi first gave the farmers courage and confidence. He was called to court because he refused to obey the order to leave. The entire town of Motihari was filled with peasants who came to support him. This show of support was the start of fearlessness among the farmers.

Finally, the case was dropped, marking the first success of civil disobedience. Gandhi gave the farmers the courage to speak for their rights. Because of Gandhi’s efforts, a committee was formed, and 25% of the money was refunded to the farmers. Gandhi solved the problem by making it a people’s struggle, involving everyone from sharecroppers to lawyers. In this way, Gandhi showed the power of unity and non-violence in achieving justice.

4. Question: Self-reliance, Indian Independence and help to sharecroppers were all bound together. Elucidate with reference to the excerpt ‘Indigo’. Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: Gandhi learned that British landlords owned most of the farming land in Champaran. The sharecroppers had to grow indigo on 15% of their land and give it as rent. When synthetic indigo was developed in Germany, landlords made peasants sign unfair compensation agreements.

Gandhi’s success in civil disobedience at Motihari started the Indian Independence Movement. This success helped sharecroppers, as a committee forced landlords to return 25% of the money. Gandhiji taught the peasants unity and courage. He refused help from his friend Andrews to show the importance of self-reliance. He wanted the peasants to be strong and not depend on others.

Gandhi’s actions in Champaran showed that self-reliance, the fight for Indian Independence, and helping sharecroppers were connected. By empowering the peasants, he laid the foundation for a larger struggle for freedom.

5. Question: Gandhi was impressed by the sharecropper’s determination, which led to events that greatly impacted the Indian freedom struggle. Discuss with reference to the excerpt by Louis Fischer’s ‘Indigo’? Answer in around 120 to 150 words.

Answer: Rajkumar Shukla was very determined to bring Gandhi to Champaran. When Gandhi arrived at Motihari, he was called to court because he refused to leave. Many farmers gathered outside the courthouse to support Gandhi. The British got scared by the large crowd and dropped the case. This was the first success of civil disobedience.

This event started the civil disobedience movement in the Indian freedom struggle. The courage shown by the farmers proved that Indians were overcoming their fears and were ready to fight for their rights. Gandhi’s actions in Champaran showed the power of unity and non-violence. The events in Champaran made the Indian freedom movement stronger and inspired many people across India. Gandhi’s visit to Champaran and the farmers’ bravery had a big impact on the fight for freedom. This example of standing up peacefully against injustice became an important part of the Indian struggle for independence.

6. Question: In the chapter “Indigo,” what qualities helped Shukla and Gandhi, respectively, to start one of the most powerful movements in the history of our freedom struggle?

Answer: Rajkumar Shukla had strong willpower and determination. He travelled all the way from Champaran to Lucknow to speak to Gandhi. He followed Gandhi everywhere until Gandhi agreed to go to Champaran.

Gandhi stood against the unfair laws. He made the British officials listen to the peasants’ problems. He believed that if their cause was right, they didn’t need help from the British. This showed the importance of standing on their own. Gandhi gathered all the facts and proved to the British that the sharecroppers were treated unfairly.

These qualities helped Shukla and Gandhi start the movement. Their determination and courage are examples for us all. They show us how to stand up for what is right and face problems with strength. Their actions in Champaran inspired many and played a big role in our freedom struggle.