Quick Quiz: India's Independence & Education Visionaries

BW Online Bureau Aug 15, 2023

Today the nation is celebrating its 76th Independence Day. India's Independence in 1947 marked a historic turning point in the nation's journey, as it emerged from centuries of colonial rule under British dominion. The culmination of tireless efforts and sacrifices by visionary leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel and Maulana Azad led to the realisation of the long-cherished dream of self-rule. The struggles, protests and nonviolent movements that spanned decades culminated in a momentous event that transformed the socio-political landscape of the country. The subcontinent's newfound independence paved the way for the establishment of a sovereign nation, driven by its diverse culture, democratic values and aspirations for economic progress.

The evolution of education in India has been equally significant since independence. As the nation sought to carve out its identity on the global stage, education played a crucial role in shaping its future. The introduction of comprehensive policies aimed at increasing access to education for all, regardless of caste, creed or gender, brought about a significant transformation. The expansion of educational institutions, development of curricula and promotion of scientific and technical education fostered intellectual growth and innovation.

India’s first Education Minister, Maulana Azad's vision for education emphasised not just academic learning, but also the cultivation of a holistic understanding of one's cultural heritage and ethical values. Maulana Azad's dedication to education saw the establishment of the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the foundation of the University Grants Commission (UGC).

His belief in fostering an inclusive and diverse educational environment laid the groundwork for the country's educational institutions to thrive and produce leaders, scholars and professionals across various fields. As India continues to progress, its commitment to education remains a cornerstone of its development, owing much to the visionary leadership and principles set forth by Maulana Azad.

On this beautiful occasion, let’s play a quiz about our country and beloved leaders. Below we are providing you with a set of 20 questions with a brief introduction. It is a good chance to test your knowledge of independence and history. Try your best and don’t cheat, okay?

Questions

Q1. Charles Freer Andrews, commonly known as CF Andrews, was a British priest, educator and social reformer who was associated with the Indian independence movement and played a significant role in India's struggle for freedom. At which college in Delhi, he taught for a brief time?

Q2. Do you know the name of the college where the legendary poet, Mirza Ghalib taught and which was impacted by 1857?

Q3. Name the person who was a prominent Indian educationist and politician who played a significant role in both - the establishment and development of Jamia Millia Islamia University and in India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule. He was a Vice Chancellor of the university between 1928-48.

Q4. Under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi and prominent leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Congress formulated a comprehensive vision for education, often referred to as the 'Wardha Scheme of Basic Education' or 'Nai Talim'. Name the state where this meeting was held?

Q5. Name the person who was a prominent Indian freedom fighter, social reformer and educator. He played a significant role in Indian independence and was instrumental in establishing a network of schools, particularly in Maharashtra. He founded the Deccan Education Society in 1884, which played a crucial role in starting the Fergusson College in Pune and the New English School in Pune.

Q6. Shantiniketan played a significant role in the cultural and educational awakening in India during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its impact was particularly felt in the realms of education, art, literature and the promotion of a holistic approach to learning. It is founded by which Noble Laureate reformer?

Q7. Dadabhai Naoroji, also known as the 'Grand Old Man of India', was an important Indian political leader, scholar and early advocate for Indian self-rule. He studied in both India and England. From which college did Naoroji began his educational journey?

Q8. Which is the first modern university established in India. It was founded on January 24, 1857, during the British colonial rule.

Q9. Which famous educational institution in Kolkata, established in 1817, has produced numerous Indian luminaries and played a significant role in the Indian Renaissance?

Q10. Who was the renowned Indian physicist and educator, often referred to as the 'Father of the Indian Nuclear Programme', who played a vital role in establishing India's atomic energy programme?

Q11. Which iconic Indian figure's autobiography is titled 'My Experiments with Truth', offering insights into his philosophy of nonviolent resistance?

Q12. In which year was the Right to Education Act (RTE) enacted in India, ensuring free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14?

Q13. Who was the founder of the Banaras Hindu University (BHU), which aimed to blend traditional Indian learning with modern education?

Q14. Who was the first woman in India to become the President of the Indian National Congress and was a key figure in India's fight for independence?

Q15. Who is often referred to as the 'Father of the Indian Constitution' because to his instrumental role in its drafting and shaping?

Q16. Who is often referred to as the 'Architect of Modern Education' in India for his efforts in promoting Western-style education among Muslims and establishing Aligarh Muslim University?

Q17. Who was the pioneering Indian educator and reformer known as the first female teacher of India and who played a crucial role in promoting education for women and marginalised communities?

Q18. Which educational committee introduced the 10+2+3 system, shaping the structure of school education in India?

Q19. Which Indian Nobel laureate, renowned for his work in physics, played a significant role in science education in India and helped establish the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR)?

Q20. Which Indian state's education system is known for its unique 'Kendriya Vidyalayas' (Central Schools) and strong emphasis on quality education for children of government employees?

Answers

1: St Stephen College

2: Delhi College

3: Dr. Zakir Hussain

5: Wardha Maharashtra

5: Lokmanya Tilak

6: Rabindranath Tagore

7: Elphinstone College in Bombay (now Mumbai)

8: The University of Calcutta

9: Presidency University (formerly Presidency College)

10: Dr Homi J Bhabha

11: Mahatma Gandhi