7. Write a critical note on the evolution and significance of the slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan”. 200 words – 10 Marks (2013)
(Introduction)
The slogan Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan was coined by our former prime minister Lal Bahadur Shastri.
(Thesis)
Severe shortage of food and the wars demanded urgent attention for substantial improvement in farm production and military endeavors. Hence, the slogan.
Evolution
In early 1960s, India suffered some major setbacks. It underwent severe droughts. Also it had to involve in forced wars with China and Pakistan.
The repercussions were threatening to survival of India as a nation. Food buffer stock had depleted to dangerous level. US also stopped its food aid. The wars had drained the scarce resources it had. Economy got stagnated due to poor industrial production and problematic balance of payment.
Here was the need to encourage the farmers to catapult farm production. The soldiers also needed emotional support to fight the wars with maximum efficiency despite limited military constraints. The slogan, Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, thus evolved.
Significance
It had long term impacts on India. The diversion of the resources slowed down its economy that could have been otherwise. Health and Education sectors suffered very badly. Efforts to eliminate poverty slowed down.
However, it brought new dynamics to India. Green Revolution was one major outcome that removed Indian dependency on others for its food. Also, it helped it recover its reputation at domestic and international fronts. India had suffered a moral breakdown at both fronts for the losses in Indo-China war in 1962.
Self sufficiency in food helped India to focus on other sectors of economy. This, in addition to its improved defence status, helped it in independent diplomacy worldwide.
(Conclusion)
under the aegis of – evolution.The dual threats of hunger and wars needed urgent attention for India. These could have been solved only with the support from the farmers and the soldiers. Hence, the slogan – Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan.