Question

Write a short note.

Joining

Answer 1

When India gained independence, there were more than 600 princely states of various sizes. Their political integration was the biggest challenge faced by the leaders of independent India. There was a political awakening in the Princely States because of Non Co-operation Movement. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel handled the situation with great skill and tact. He took a conciliatory approach and won the confidence of the rulers of these states.

With the exception of Junagadh, Hyderabad, and Kashmir remaining states responded positively to the appeal and merged in India. Later, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel adopted a stern policy and resolved the problem of the accession of those states, who were unwilling to accede.