Who founded the "Servants of India Society"?

Correct option is C

Ans. (c)
Gopal Krishna Gokhale founded the Servants of India Society in 1905. Gokhale envisioned training Indians for national service by instilling in them qualities of honesty, patriotism, and commitment to social reform. The society emphasized education, health, and sanitation for improving the lives of the underprivileged. It aimed to build a cadre of selfless workers who would dedicate their lives to the country’s upliftment.
Information Booster
1. The Servants of India Society was established in Pune, Maharashtra.
2. It focused on promoting universal education and fighting against untouchability.
3. Gokhale was a firm believer in achieving independence through non-violent means and moderate reforms.
4. The society's members took an oath of voluntary poverty and dedicated themselves entirely to service.
5. It worked to create a sense of national unity among diverse communities in India.
6. The society also contributed to women’s empowerment through education.
7. Gokhale’s ideas influenced leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, who regarded him as his political mentor.
Additional Knowledge
· M.G. Ranade: A key figure in the Indian social reform movement and an advocate for women’s rights.
· Anant Patwardhan: Known for his contributions to Maharashtra's social reforms, though not a founder of any major national movement.
· B.G. Tilak: A prominent extremist leader who gave the slogan “Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it.” His approach contrasted with Gokhale's moderate stance.
Key Points
· The Servants of India Society symbolized service-based nationalism and laid the groundwork for India’s socio-political reforms.
· Gokhale’s emphasis on education and ethics distinguished his leadership from other nationalists.