Growth of Nationalism — Question 3

(a) Vernacular Press Act, 1878:

1. Lord Lytton introduced the Vernacular Press Act in 1878
2. The Vernacular Press Act forbade vernacular papers to publish any material that might excite feelings of dissatisfaction against the British Government.
3. This Act was not applicable to English newspapers.

(b) Three objectives of the Indian National Congress were-

1. To promote friendly relations between nationalist political workers from different parts of the country.
2. To develop and consolidate the feelings of national unity irrespective of caste, religion or province.
3. To formulate popular demands and present them before the government.

(c) Dadabhai Naoroji played a significant role in the rise of Nationalism and the birth of the Indian National Congress.

1. The East India Association was founded in London in 1866 by Dadabhai Naoroji.
2. The Association provided information on all Indian subjects to British citizens and Members of Parliament.
3. It voiced the grievances of Indians and suggested remedial measures.
4. Dadabhai Naoroji, the Grand Old Man of India, was of the opinion that the British were basically just and good.
5. He wanted to place the true state of affairs in India before the people of England so that the problems of the Indians may be resolved.
6. The association had its branches in Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai.
7. Later, he supported the formation of Indian National Congress.
8. The second session of the Congress was held at Kolkata in 1886, under the Presidentship of Dadabhai Naoroji.