Correct option is B
Ans. (b) Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel
Explanation:
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel inaugurated Greater Rajasthan on March 30, 1949, in Jaipur. This event marked the fourth phase of the unification of Rajasthan. During this phase, Bikaner, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer merged into the Union of India to form the state of Rajasthan.
The Maharana of Udaipur, Bhupal Singh, was appointed as the Maha-Rajpramukh, while the ruler of Kota (Kota Naresh) was made the Up-Rajpramukh. The first Chief Minister of Rajasthan was Hira Lal Shastri, who held the office from April 7, 1949, to January 5, 1951. To commemorate this significant event, March 30 is celebrated annually as Rajasthan Day.
Information Booster
1. Greater Rajasthan's formation was part of the reorganization of princely states after India's independence in 1947.
2. The unification of Rajasthan occurred in seven stages, starting in March 1948 with the Matsya Union and culminating in the formation of the modern Rajasthan state on November 1, 1956.
3. Jaipur was chosen as the capital of Rajasthan due to its central location and infrastructure.
4. Sardar Patel, as the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of India, played a key role in the integration of princely states.
5. Rajasthan is the largest state in India by area, and its foundation day is celebrated with cultural events, parades, and fireworks.
6. Post-independence, many rulers of princely states cooperated with the Indian government, leading to the smooth transition of power.
Additional Knowledge
· Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: Known as the "Iron Man of India", Patel was instrumental in the integration of more than 560 princely states into the Indian Union after independence.
· Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru: The first Prime Minister of India; focused on the development of modern India and establishment of parliamentary democracy.
· N. V. Gadgil: He served as the Minister for Public Works during Nehru's cabinet and was involved in India's initial administrative reorganization.
· Hiralal Shastri: Rajasthan's first Chief Minister; prior to independence, he played a significant role in education and rural development, particularly in the Bhilwara district.
Key Points
· Rajasthan was formed in seven phases; Greater Rajasthan was the fourth stage.
· Sardar Patel's efforts were crucial for the unification of India, including Rajasthan.
· March 30 is celebrated as Rajasthan Day to honor the foundation of the state.