Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question focuses on the linguistic reorganization of Indian states post-independence.
Following the States Reorganisation Act of 1956, which created 14 states and 6 union territories, regional linguistic movements continued to demand separate political identities for various linguistic groups.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Under the 1956 Act, a large bilingual state called "Bombay State" was created.
It consisted of Marathi-speaking and Gujarati-speaking populations.
This bilingual arrangement was not successful and led to widespread popular movements in both regions.
The Movements:
1. Samyukta Maharashtra Movement: A mass movement demanding a separate state for Marathi speakers with Bombay (now Mumbai) as its capital.
2. Mahagujarat Movement: A parallel movement demanding a separate state for the Gujarati-speaking population.
The Creation of Maharashtra and Gujarat:
Recognizing the intensity of the demand and the potential for prolonged instability, the Central Government agreed to split the Bombay State.
On May 1, 1960, the Bombay Reorganisation Act came into effect.
This resulted in the creation of two separate states: Maharashtra and Gujarat.
Timeline of other options:
- Nagaland (1963): It was carved out of Assam in 1963 following years of Naga insurgency.
- Arunachal Pradesh (1987): It was a Union Territory until 1987, when it was elevated to full statehood.
- Mizoram (1987): It became a state in 1987 after the Mizo Peace Accord was signed between the government and the MNF in 1986.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maharashtra was formed in 1960 along with Gujarat.
Therefore, the correct answer is Option (B).