How did Jyothibha Phule distinguish himself as a social reformer?. (200 words)
Jyoti Rao Phule, also known as Mahatma Phule was a social reformer and educationist who fought against social injustice and sought to establish an egalitarian society. He was the founder of Satyashodhak Samaj.Reforms initiated by Mahatma Phule
Education
Mahatma Phule was one of the earliest proponents of female education. He also made efforts to take education to individuals belonging to lower castes.
Eradication of untouchability
The practice of untouchability was opposed strongly by Phule. He propagated equality by fighting for social rights of backward classes.
Anti-infanticide
He established care homes for women for raising a female child. The practice of some caste groups to kill female new born was opposed.
Modern resonance for Mahatma Phule’s thoughts
Education for all
Mahatma Phule made efforts to make education accessible for all sections including women and backward classes. The government is also trying to fulfill the same obligations.Ex: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao.
Upliftment of underprivileged
The government has been making efforts to bring underprivileged to the mainstream of society and ensure that their social status improves through education.Ex: Scholarships, Nayi Udaan scheme.
Equality
Mahatma Phule’s idea of an egalitarian society has been upheld by the constitution itself. Practices such as infanticide, untouchability etc have all been banned.Ex: Fundamental rights
Thus, Mahatma Phule was a visionary, whose initiatives have served as an inspiration for building a new modern India.
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