The Paika Rebellion of 1817 reflected a well-organized and broad-based resistance against colonial policies. Examine the socio-economic and political factors that led to the uprising, and assess its significance in the evolution of the Indian freedom struggle.

Answer: 

Approach to the answer:

In the question, it is discussed how the Paika insurrection is regarded as one of the earliest popular uprisings against the British. Here, we must first describe the nature and characteristics of the Paika Rebellion. Then, in the second section, we must explain how these features made the Paika Rebellion the first of many uprisings against the British.  

Overview: A brief description of the Paika uprising or an explanation of its significance can be used to introduce the issue. Another way to put it is that the subject was recently in the news.  

• For Example: In essence, Paikas were the peasant militias of the Gajapati kings of Odisha, who cultivated during peacetime and served the king militarily during wartime. Under the leadership of Baxi Jagandhu Bidyadhara, they rose up in rebellion against the British in 1817 in an attempt to overthrow their rule.

Body: Since the directive’s purpose is to elucidate, the statement needs to be further elucidated, and the second half of the question needs to be illustrated using examples and facts, if relevant.  

• For Example: In the eastern region of India, the Paika Bidroha (Paika Rebellion) momentarily rocked the pillars of British power.  Even though the revolt’s geographic scope was restricted to Odisha, its impact on Indian history is worldwide.
• Character of Rebellion: The insurrection was unique because of its goal, careful preparation, economic research, and the involvement of individuals from all walks of life with an indigenous alternative government concept. For example, some rebels engaged in years of guerilla warfare. Subsequent uprisings against the British increasingly popularized this tactic.

In conclusion: By restating the points or emphasizing the Paika rebellion’s contributions to the history of struggles against the colonial master, we can wrap up the response.

• In the eastern region of India, the Paika Bidroha (Paika Rebellion) momentarily rocked the pillars of British power.  Even though the revolt’s geographic scope was restricted to Odisha, its impact on Indian history is worldwide.

Practice Question:

Question: Compare and contrast the Paika Rebellion of 1817 with other contemporary revolts such as the Sanyasi and Fakir uprisings. What features make the Paika Bidroha stand out in the narrative of India’s early resistance against colonial rule? (250 words)

Mains PYQs

Question: Analyze the significance of the Carnatic Wars in shaping colonial control over India.

MCQs

Question: With reference to the Paika Rebellion of 1817, consider the following statements:

1. The Paikas were a land-owning militia class recruited by the Gajapati kings of Odisha and were granted rent-free land for their service.
2. The immediate cause of the rebellion was the British decision to abolish salt monopoly and introduce cowrie currency in trade.
3. Bakshi Jagabandhu led the Paikas against British forces during the rebellion.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. a) 1 and 2 only
2. b) 2 and 3 only
3. c) 1 and 3 only
4. d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: c) 1 and 3 only

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