Read the passage and answer the questions below: One of Hazarika’s songs... dwells on the unity theme; the seven states of north-eastern India become seven sisters born of the same mother. … ‘Meghalaya went own way……, Arunachal too separated and Mizoram appeared in Assam’s gateway as a groom to marry another daughter.’ …… …… The song ends with a determination to keep the unity of the Assamese with other smaller nationalities that are left in the present-day Assam – ‘the Karbis and the Missing brothers and sisters are our dear ones.’ — SANJIB BARUAH
Which unity is the poet talking about?
The poet is talking about the unity among the seven states of North-Eastern India, which are described as seven sisters born of the same mother. The song specifically emphasizes the determination to maintain unity between the Assamese people and the smaller nationalities remaining in present-day Assam, such as the Karbis and the Missing brothers and sisters.
Why were some States of North-East created separately out of the erstwhile State of Assam?
Some States of the North-East were created separately out of the erstwhile State of Assam due to strong regional aspirations. The context indicates that in some parts of the North-East, there was no consensus about being a part of India. This led to movements demanding separation from India (like in Nagaland and Mizoram) as well as movements for greater autonomy or statehood, resulting in the political reorganization of the region.
Do you think that the same theme of unity could apply to all the regions of India? Why?
Yes, the same theme of unity can apply to all regions of India. The context states that regional demands from different parts of India exemplify the principle of unity with diversity. Despite various regional aspirations and movements in different parts of the country, such as the Dravid movement in the South or issues in Jammu and Kashmir, the nation has remained a unified country. This shows that diverse regional identities can coexist within a framework of national unity.
Explanation
The answer is derived directly from the provided passage and the textbook context regarding 'Regional Aspirations'. For part (a), the passage explicitly mentions the 'unity theme' regarding the seven sisters and the specific nationalities within Assam. For part (b), the context explains that regional aspirations, lack of consensus on being part of India, and movements for separation or autonomy drove the creation of new states. For part (c), the context links regional demands across India to the principle of 'unity with diversity', supporting the argument that the unity theme is applicable nationally.