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### The Process of Decolonisation ###
Decolonisation is the process by which colonies become independent of the colonizing country. In the context of India, it was not a single event but a long and complex process involving political negotiations, mass movements, and international pressure. The end of World War II accelerated this process. The British government, realizing it could no longer hold onto India, sent the Cabinet Mission in 1946 to negotiate the transfer of power. However, disagreements between the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League over the future structure of India led to the failure of the mission and the eventual decision to partition the country.
### Partition and Independence ###
The partition of British India into India and Pakistan was a traumatic event accompanied by massive communal violence and the largest mass migration in human history. Millions of people were uprooted from their homes, and hundreds of thousands were killed. Despite the tragedy of partition, India achieved independence on August 15, 1947. This marked the formal end of British colonial rule and the beginning of a new era for the Indian subcontinent.
### Integration of Princely States ###
As discussed in previous chapters, the integration of the princely states was a critical part of the decolonisation process. The British policy of "lapsing of paramountcy" left the status of these states ambiguous. The determined efforts of Sardar Patel and V.P. Menon ensured that these states were integrated into the Indian Union, preventing the fragmentation of the country. This process involved a mix of diplomacy, legal instruments like the Instrument of Accession, and in some cases, military action. The successful integration of these states was a major achievement of independent India's early leadership and crucial for the nation's unity and integrity.