Evaluate the economic and political developments in India under Indira Gandhi.

Candidates will make an appraisal of the economic and political developments in India under Indira Gandhi, weighing up their importance or otherwise. Developments may extend beyond the timeframe but they must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may offer equal coverage of economic and political developments, or they may prioritize one of them. However, both aspects will be a feature of the response. Candidates may refer to the positive economic changes that took place under Indira Gandhi such as the reduction in poverty, increase in food production, as well as agricultural growth. Candidates may also discuss the successes and failures of her nationalization programmes. Politically, candidates may refer to her victory over Pakistan by the consolidation of Indian power over Kashmir in 1971, as well as the creation of Bangladesh. Other relevant developments may be addressed, for example, her rule by decree for two years following her conviction of dishonest election practices. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.