Correct Option (A)
Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I.
Statement-I is correct: The Government of India declared 7th August as National Handloom Day in 2015. This initiative aims to honour the handloom weaving community and highlight the contribution of the handloom sector to India's socio-economic development and cultural heritage.
Statement-II is correct: The Swadeshi Movement was officially launched on 7th August 1905, from Town Hall, Calcutta. This movement emerged as a strong response to the British government's decision to partition Bengal and advocated for the boycott of foreign goods while promoting indigenous industries, including handloom and textiles, to foster economic self-reliance.
Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I: The selection of 7th August as National Handloom Day directly commemorates the launch of the Swadeshi Movement in 1905. The Swadeshi Movement played a pivotal role in promoting indigenous products, particularly handloom, and instilling a sense of national pride and self-reliance. Therefore, the date for National Handloom Day was chosen to align with this historical event that championed Indian handloom products.
Incorrect Options:
Option 2 is incorrect because Statement-II provides the direct historical context and rationale for the observance of National Handloom Day on 7th August, thereby serving as a correct explanation for Statement-I.
Option 3 is incorrect because Statement-II is factually correct. The Swadeshi Movement was indeed launched on 7th August 1905.
Option 4 is incorrect because Statement-I is factually correct. 7th August is officially observed as National Handloom Day.