Answer: Constructive programmes were the social work initiatives of Mahatma Gandhi launched during inactive phase of freedom struggle. Constructive programmes are said to have played role of keeping moral of congress workers high, widening the meaning of swaraj, and preparation for the next phase of struggle.  

The constructive programme of Mahatma Gandhi during non-cooperation and civil disobedience movement, consisted of following work:  

• Satyagraha Sabha made from members of Home Rule League was organized before the non-cooperation movement. Methods of strike were combined with fasting and praying.   
• Promotion of Khadi and village industries through use of spinning wheel, khadi bhandars, and boycott of foreign cloth.  
• Promotion of Hindu-Muslim unity was emphasized in messaging and symbolism, through a network of Ashrams across villages.  
• Removal of untouchability was worked upon through work among lower castes and tribes. 
• For example, the Bardoli Satyagraha.  
• Promotion of new or basic Education: Gandhi’s concept of new education implies that nature, society and crafts are huge mediums of education. This education ought to be for them, a kind of insurance against unemployment.
• Upliftment of Women: In his mission of Swaraj, Gandhi needed the cooperation of women, kisans, labourers and students. So, he had planned to work amongst them through a constructive programme.

• It was only due to Gandhi’s efforts that women came out of their houses for the first time in history and participated in the Indian political struggle.

Role played by constructive programme in non-cooperation and civil disobedience movement:  

• During non-cooperation movement, constructive programme kept up the spirit of people in wake of disappointment due to suspension of movement. 
• Volunteers promoting use of Khadi provided ground works  and support during civil disobedience movement.  
• Constructive work expanded the reach of the national movement across caste and class barriers.

Thus, the constructive programmes of Mahatma Gandhi provided the cadre for the freedom struggle, created a training arena for them and expanded the social basis of the national movement.