After independence, which was the first Indian state to be organised primarily on a linguistic basis?

Introduction / Context:
The reorganisation of states on linguistic lines is a key theme in post independence Indian political history. This question asks about the first state that was created mainly to satisfy linguistic identity, which set a precedent for future state reorganisations. Knowing this helps learners understand how language based movements shaped the political map of India.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The focus is on the period after independence in 1947.
• The state asked about is specifically one formed on the basis of language.
• Options include Punjab, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.

Concept / Approach:
The demand for a separate state for Telugu speaking people led to the creation of Andhra state in 1953, carved out of the Madras Presidency. This development followed the sacrifice of Potti Sriramulu and a strong popular movement. Andhra state later became part of the larger Andhra Pradesh formed in 1956. Because this was the first major instance of a state being organised mainly on linguistic lines after independence, the correct answer must refer to Andhra. Other linguistic states such as Gujarat and Punjab were formed later.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that soon after independence, there were intense agitations demanding states aligned with major regional languages. Step 2: Note that the earliest successful movement among these was the demand for a separate Telugu speaking state. Step 3: Recognise that this led to the creation of Andhra state in 1953 from the Tamil dominated Madras state. Step 4: Understand that this Andhra state later formed the core of Andhra Pradesh after states reorganisation in 1956. Step 5: Compare timelines and see that Punjab, Gujarat, and Karnataka became linguistic states later, so they cannot be the first.

Verification / Alternative check:
History of modern India references and state reorganisation committee reports confirm that Andhra was the first state to be formed clearly on a linguistic basis in the early 1950s. Looking at the chronological order of state formations reinforces this conclusion.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Gujarat and Maharashtra were created on linguistic lines in 1960, several years after Andhra. The modern state of Punjab also underwent reorganisation on linguistic and religious lines later in the 1960s. Karnataka, earlier known as Mysore, achieved linguistic reorganisation in stages, not as the first example.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse Andhra state and Andhra Pradesh or get distracted by later high profile linguistic agitations. It is important to remember that the Telugu speaking movement and the creation of Andhra in 1953 were the earliest successful cases.

Final Answer:
The first state organised on a linguistic basis after independence was Andhra Pradesh (initially formed as Andhra state in 1953).