Answer:

Introduction

The Home Rule Movement was launched by Annie Besant (September 1916) and Bal Gangadhar Tilak (April 1916). It emerged as a response to the limitations of the INC in addressing the needs of the Indian people and attaining self-rule for India.Tilak worked in the Central Provinces, Berar, Karnataka, and Maharashtra (except Bombay). At the same time, Annie Besant was active in other parts of the country.

Body

Stature of the Home Rule League in British India

• Influence on the August 1917 declaration: As it exerted pressure on the British government for self-rule, leading to this declaration supporting eventual self-government for India. As per the declaration, the control over the Indian Government would be gradually transferred to the Indian people & a responsible government would be set up gradually.
• Attracted politically backward regions like Gujarat and Sindh: Through its grassroots organizations and political education.
• Political Mobilization: The Home Rule League mobilized Indians across various regions, fostering a sense of unity and promoting a common goal of self-rule.
• Demand for Self-Government: It demanded self-government for India within the British Empire with the aim to establish responsible government.
• Popular Support: It organized mass meetings, rallies, and public campaigns to generate public awareness and helped galvanize the independence movement.
• Press and Propaganda: The league’s newspapers, such as “New India” and “Commonweal,” became prominent platforms for spreading nationalist ideas and promoting Indian culture and heritage.
• Inspiring Future Leaders: Prominent figures like Jawaharlal Nehru and C. Rajagopalachari were actively involved in the league, shaping their political ideologies and leadership skills.

Home Rule League benefacted the Indian nationalist struggle:

• Grassroots Organization: The league’s branches in cities like Madras and Calcutta organized public meetings, processions, and rallies, creating a united front against British rule.
  
• Empowering Women: Besant actively encouraged women to participate, establishing the Women’s Indian Association as a platform to express their political views and contribute to the fight for independence.
• Collaboration with Other Movements: It joined forces with the All-India Congress Committee during the Non-Cooperation Movement, amplifying their collective impact on British authorities.
• Impact on the Gandhian Movement: The Home Rule League’s efforts laid the groundwork by spreading political awareness amongst masses that proved beneficial for attracting mass support in future Gandhian movements like Non-Cooperation Movement.

Conclusion

Overall, the Home Rule League played a crucial role in awakening national consciousness, fostering unity, and laying the foundation for India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule.