Who started the institution the 'Depressed Classes Mission' for the progress of the Dalits?
A.Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj
B.Babasaheb Ambedkar
C.Maharshi Vitthal Ramji Shinde
D.Periyar Ramaswamy

Hint: He is Considered as one of the most significant social and religious reformers of Maharashtra, he was notably amongst the liberal thinkers and reformists in India, preliminary to its autonomy. His incredible assistance was to strive to eliminate the practice of untouchability and give rise to equality also for the depressed classes in Indian society. After arriving from England in 1903, he committed his life to spiritual and social reforms. He proceeded his missionary job for the Prarthana Samaj.

Complete answer:
Maharshi Vitthal Ramji Shinde set up the establishment of ‘Depressed Classes Mission' on 18 October, 1906 in order to strive against untouchability nationwide.
Mission intended to attempt to get rid of untouchability, furnish educational facilities to the untouchables, to inaugurate schools, hostels, and clinics for the untouchables and to figure out their social difficulties.
In 1933, his book ‘Bhartiya Asprushyatecha Prashna' was circulated. His opinions and analysis of the Hindu religion and social culture were identical to Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Dayananda Saraswati. In his dissertations, he rejects the caste system, idol worship, and injustices against women and depressed groups. He contradicted absurd traditions, the pre-eminence of the hereditary priesthood, and the necessity of a priest to intervene between God and his devotees.

Hence, the correct answer is option (C).

Note: Maharshi Vitthal Ramji Shinde’s endeavours were committed primarily to the removal of untouchability in India. In 1905, he also ascertained a night school for the children of untouchables in Pune. In 1930, he contributed in the Civil Disobedience movement of Mahatma Gandhi and was detained for six months. Maharshi Vitthal Ramji Shinde departed on 2 January 1944.