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SSC CGL - Detailed Guide 2025

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Integration of Princely States

Reference: Lucent GK, NCERT Class 6–12

Background

  • At Independence (1947), India had 565 princely states.
  • These states were not directly governed by British Crown but had treaties with Britain.
  • On British withdrawal, these states became technically independent and had to choose between:
    • Joining India,
    • Joining Pakistan, or
    • Remaining independent.
  • Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs, was tasked with integrating these states into the Indian Union.
Illustration of Early Vedic Period
Illustration of coins of Gupta empire

Challenges in Integration

  • Many states were small and scattered.
  • Some rulers resisted joining India.
  • Concerns over sovereignty, power, and religious composition.

Steps Taken for Integration

  1. Instrument of Accession
    • A legal document offered by the Indian government.
    • Princely states signed it to join India.
    • Gave India control over defense, foreign affairs, and communications.
    • States retained internal autonomy initially.
  2. Role of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and V.P. Menon
    • Patel: The “Iron Man of India,” led diplomatic efforts.
    • V.P. Menon: Civil servant, strategist who worked closely with Patel.
    • Used diplomacy, persuasion, and threats when needed.
Illustration of Early Vedic Period
Illustration of coins of Gupta empire

Important Cases of Integration

a) Hyderabad (1948)
  • Large, rich state ruled by Nizam, who wanted independence.
  • Had a majority Hindu population but Muslim ruler.
  • Nizam refused to join India.
  • “Operation Polo” (Police Action) in September 1948 annexed Hyderabad.
  • Indian army succeeded peacefully in 5 days; Nizam surrendered.
b) Junagadh (1947)
  • Muslim ruler in Hindu-majority region.
  • Chose to join Pakistan; India opposed.
  • Popular revolt and plebiscite led to integration with India.
c) Kashmir (1947)
  • Maharaja Hari Singh initially wanted independence.
  • Tribal invasion from Pakistan-backed forces occurred.
  • Signed Instrument of Accession in Oct 1947 to seek India’s help.
  • Accession remains a disputed issue.
d) Manipur and Tripura
  • Initially hesitant to join India.
  • Joined in 1949 after persuasion.

Outcomes

  • Within 2 years, most princely states merged with India.
  • Provided political stability and territorial unity.
  • Set foundation for the Republic of India.
  • Hyderabad and Kashmir remained most sensitive cases.
Illustration of Early Vedic Period

Quick Revision Points

  • 565 princely states existed at the time of independence.
  • They had the choice to join India, Pakistan, or remain independent.
  • Patel and Menon led the integration using diplomacy and strategy.
  • Key states: Hyderabad (Operation Polo), Junagadh (plebiscite), Kashmir (accession), Manipur & Tripura.
  • Instrument of Accession used to legally integrate states.
  • Resulted in a politically united India within 2 years.
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