The Home Rule Movement was started by Bal Gangadhar Tilak at Belgaum and later by Annie Besant in Madras in the year _______

Correct option is B

The Home Rule Movement was started in the year 1916. It was initiated by Bal Gangadhar Tilak in Belgaum (now in Karnataka) and later by Annie Besant in Madras (now Chennai). The movement aimed to achieve self-governance for India within the British Empire and inspired Indians to take an active interest in political affairs. It was influenced by the Irish Home Rule League and marked a significant step in India's struggle for freedom.

Information Booster

1. Home Rule Movement Objectives:
   • Demand self-governance and political freedom.
   • Increase public awareness and political participation.
2. Leaders:
   • Bal Gangadhar Tilak: Focused on the western part of India.
   • Annie Besant: Worked in southern and eastern parts of India.
3. Year of Formation:
   • Tilak’s Home Rule League: April 1916.
   • Besant’s Home Rule League: September 1916.
4. Major Contributions:
   • Popularized the demand for Swaraj (self-rule).
   • Strengthened the nationalist movement by mobilizing diverse groups.
5. Decline of the Movement:
   • Declined after 1917 when Montagu announced reforms granting more representation to Indians.

Key Points

• The movement unified Indians across regional and cultural lines.
• It was the first major political campaign led by Indians for Indians.
• Prepared the groundwork for the subsequent mass movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920).