Secure 2015

General Studies I
Topic-Wise Compilation

Insights on India
March

Secure 2015

General Studies I

March

Contents

Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of art forms, literature and architecture from ancient to
modern times ...........................................................................................................................................8
1. Lomas Rishi Caves in the Barabar Hills of Bihar and gateways of some of Buddhist stupas are an
excellent example showing true imitations in stone of early wooden constructions. Examine.
(150 Words)

2. Compare and contrast the Indo-Islamic architecture with that of temple architecture in India.
(200 Words) ................................................................................................................................................... 9
3. Do we have anything today as representative of Modern Architecture which could be compared with
our old buildings? Critically examine. (200 Words) ..................................................................................... 10
4. Unlike in Europe where, by the 17th century, French and English had broken with the dominance of
Latin to create not just literature, but also philosophy, historiography, sociology, science etc. in their
tongues, in India the achievement of regional languages beyond the crucial (and yet also limited) domain
of literature is a major impediment. In the light of ongoing movements to make regional languages
medium of instruction in schools and politics associated with them, critically examine why regional
languages have failed to excel in fields other than literature. (200 Words) ............................................... 11
5. Write a note on the significance of the statue of dancing girl of Mohenjodaro to Indias art and culture.
(150 Words) ................................................................................................................................................. 12
6. Examine the influence of Buddhism and its concepts on the art of Mauryan Empire with suitable
examples. (150 Words) ................................................................................................................................ 13
7. Gupta sculpture is the logical outcome of the early classical sculpture of Amravati and Mathura.
Discuss with examples. (150 Words) ........................................................................................................... 13
8. Describe the nature and form of wall paintings of Ajanta caves. (200 Words) ...................................... 14
9. Write short notes on the following in about 100 words: ........................................................................ 15
a) The Mughal School of Painting ............................................................................................................ 15
b) Basohli School of Painting ................................................................................................................... 15
c) Kangra School of Painting .................................................................................................................... 15
10. With suitable examples, explain what features describe the modern school of Indian painting. (200
Words) ......................................................................................................................................................... 16
11. Write a note on different aspects of Indias traditional dance system. (200 Words) ........................... 17
12. Compare and contrast expression and art forms between Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi. (200 Words)
..................................................................................................................................................................... 18
13. Write a note on the influence of religion and religious practices on some of Indias traditional dance
forms. (200 Words)...................................................................................................................................... 18
14. Examine the roots of classical Indian music and its evolution into major forms. (200 Words) ............ 19
16. Write a note on cultural significance of puppet forms and throw light on some forms of Southern
India. (200 Words) ....................................................................................................................................... 21
17. What are the tangible and intangible cultural heritages of India? Write a critical note on the
institutional mechanism that exists to protect and propagate these cultural heritages.(200 Words)....... 22

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18. Examine the main differences between the temples of the ancient period and the medieval period in
India with suitable examples. (150 Words) ................................................................................................. 23
19. Examine the salient features of Mesolithic and chalcolithic cave paintings of India. Also examine,
what could have been the reasons for depicting more animal figures than human figures in cave
paintings? (200 Words) ............................................................................................................................... 24
20. What kind of similarities and differences do you find between present-day terracotta and the Indus
Valley terracotta? Discuss. (200 Words) ..................................................................................................... 24
21. Write a note on the distinguishing features of Buddhist Viharas, Stupas and Chaityas. Also explain
the significance of each of these architectural features. (200 Words) ....................................................... 25
22. Write a note on the salient features of Mathura, Gandhara and Sarnath schools of art and their
depiction of Buddha. (200 Words) .............................................................................................................. 26
Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present-significant
events, personalities, issues .................................................................................................................... 27
1. The Revolt of the sepoys was accompanied by a rebellion of the civil population, particularly in the
North Western Provinces and Oudh, the two areas from which the sepoys of the Bengal army were
recruited. Comment on the reasons which prompted civil population to rebel during the 1857 Revolt.
(200 Words) ................................................................................................................................................. 27
2. Critically examine how did British colonialism affect tribal way of life and their relationship with the
forests in the nineteenth century. How did tribals react to this and with what consequences? Examine.
(200 Words) ................................................................................................................................................. 27
3. The most militant and widespread of the peasant movements was the Indigo Revolt of 1859-60. Did it
succeed in its objectives? If so, how? Examine. (200 Words) ..................................................................... 28
The Freedom Struggle its various stages and important contributors or contributions from different
parts of the country ................................................................................................................................ 29
1. Critically examine various theories put forward to explain the formation of the Indian National
Congress in 1885. Do you think nature of its birth affected its role in Indias struggle for independence?
Also, Comment. (200 Words) ...................................................................................................................... 29
2. Although religious reformation was a major concern of these movements, none of them was
exclusively religious in character. In the light of the statement, examine the nature of socio-religious
movements that took place during the nineteenth century. (200 Words) ................................................. 30
3. An attempt to reinvigorate traditional institutions and to realize the potential of traditional culture
developed during the nineteenth century India. Why did this happen and with what result? Examine.
(200 Words) ................................................................................................................................................. 30
4. Which names stand out among the large number of Indians who initiated and carried out the
economic analysis of British rule during the years 1870-1905? Analyse how they interpreted colonialism
and what impact their analyses had on Indias national movement. (200 Words) .................................... 31
5. Critically examine how did the Press started by prominent Indians both in English and vernacular
languages influence the freedom struggle. Also examine how the British reacted to this medium of
national awakening. (200 Words) ............................................................................................................... 31
6. Legislative Councils in India had no real official power till 1920. Yet, work done in them by the
nationalists helped the growth of the national movement. Examine. (200 Words) ................................. 33

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7. An important aspect of the Swadeshi Movement was the great emphasis given to self-reliance or
Atmasakti as a necessary part of the struggle against the Government. What was the nature of
Atmasakti and how successful was it in its objective during the movement? Examine. (200 Words) ..... 33
8. It is analysed that by 1907, the Moderate nationalists had exhausted their historical role in Indias
struggle against colonialism. Examine why did moderates fail and with what consequences. (200 Words)
..................................................................................................................................................................... 34
9. Do you think the Ghadarite movement was a failure considering they could not fulfil the objectives of
their movement? Critically comment. (200 Words).................................................................................... 35
10. The Home Rule League Movement, led by Lokamanya Tilak and Annie Besant, was less charged but
more effective compared to other movements of the time. Examine how and why. (200 Words) ........... 35
11. Critically comment why Gandhiji was able to do what he did in South Africa but no other Indians who
went before him. (200 Words) .................................................................................................................... 36
12. On his return from South Africa, for few years, Gandhiji did not join any political organisations or
movements of the day. Critically examine why. (200 Words) .................................................................... 37
13. What were the main features of the Non-Cooperation movement? How different was it from earlier
forms of protests? Critically examine. (200 Words) .................................................................................... 38
14. Withdrawal or a shift to a phase of non-confrontation is an inherent part of a strategy of political
action that is based on the masses. Justify this statement in the context of Indias struggle for
independence. (200 Words) ........................................................................................................................ 39
15. Critically comment on the style and methods adopted by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to lead the Bardoli
Satyagraha. (200 Words) ............................................................................................................................. 39
16. Write a critical account of the role and contribution of the working class to the national movement
for Independence. (200 Words) .................................................................................................................. 40
17. Many nationalists began to apply the newly discovered technique of non-violent Satyagraha and
mobilization of public opinion to issues which affected the internal structure of Indian society.
Evaluate the nature and success of such movements. (200 Words) .......................................................... 41
18. The years 1922-27 were a period of contradictory developments during which Gandhiji wrote: My
only hope therefore lies in prayer and answer to prayer. Examine these contradictory developments and
the effect they had on the national movement. (200 Words) .................................................................... 42
19. During the national movement two separate strands of revolutionary terrorism developed one in
Punjab, U.P. and Bihar and the other in Bengal. Critically examine the similarities and differences
between these two strands of revolutionary terrorism. (200 Words) ........................................................ 43
20. The Karachi resolution of 1931 was to remain in essence the basic political and economic
programme of the Indian National Congress in later years. Elaborate. (200 Words) ............................... 43
21. Critically comment on the objective and success of Gandhijis Harijan campaign. Also examine the
impact it had on the National Movement. (200 Words) ............................................................................. 45
22. Critically analyse the impact the Left had on the Indian society and polity during the freedom
struggle. (200 Words) .................................................................................................................................. 46
23. Write a critical note on the contribution of the Congress Socialist Party (CSP) to Indias freedom
struggle. (200 Words) .................................................................................................................................. 47

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24. Critically discuss the contribution and legacy of Bhagat Singh to Indias freedom struggle. (200 Words)
..................................................................................................................................................................... 48
25. Critically analyse the response of Jawaharlal Nehru to Gandhijis advocacy of constructive work as
means to mobilise and consolidate the support of millions in the next phase of mass struggle post Civil
Disobedience movement. (200 Words)....................................................................................................... 49
26. Critically examine how Congress governments did justice to their partys strategy that in the nonmass struggle phases of the national movement, mass political activity and popular mobilization were to
continue, though within the four-walls of legality during mid-1930s. (200 Words) ............................... 49
27. Discuss the contribution of Civil Disobedience Movement to the emergence of peasant movements
during 1930s. (200 Words) .......................................................................................................................... 50
28. Critically analyse Gandhijis views on capitalism and his relationship with industrialists during
freedom struggle. (200 Words) ................................................................................................................... 51
29. How did the methods of struggle for independence in Princely States differ from that of rest of India?
Illustrate with suitable examples. (200 Words)........................................................................................... 51
30. Critically examine the overall strategy of the Indian capitalist class, as a class, towards the national
movement. (200 Words) ............................................................................................................................. 52
31. How did leadership of the national movement balance its opposition to fascism and imperialism on
one hand, and its demand for independence and democracy on the other hand? Examine. (200 Words)53
History of the world will include events from 18th century such as industrial revolution, world wars,
redrawal of national boundaries, colonisation, decolonisation, political philosophies like communism,
capitalism, socialism etc. - their forms and the effect on the society ....................................................... 54
1. It is said that Anti-Semitism is on the rise in different parts of the world. What do you understand by
Anti-Semitism? Critically examine its nature and causes for its rise in the modern world. (200 Words)... 54
2. It is said that many democracies around the world are taking Right turn i.e. embracing conservatism.
With suitable examples, critically analyse why and also examine its implications for the world. (200
Words) ......................................................................................................................................................... 55
3. South Asian democracies present a vivid example of the baleful consequences of dynastic rule.
Critically examine. (200 Words) .................................................................................................................. 55
4. How did European Painting influence Indian Painting in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries?
Examine. (150 Words) ................................................................................................................................. 56
Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India ................................................................................ 57
1. A society that believes that every woman, irrespective of her moral or sexual choices, has the right to
her own body, must also believes that a person, irrespective of the crime he is accused of, has the right
to the due process of law. In the light of recent incidences where mobs took law in their hands, critically
comment on the statement. (200 Words) .................................................................................................. 57
2. With suitable examples, critically comment on the role of popular cinema and media in influencing
opinion and perception of common man about women in India. (200 Words) ......................................... 57
3. Our village culture and values are intrinsically linked to a control of land and agriculture. It is said that
the new Land Ordinance Bill would positively unsettle our village economy and culture. In this regard,
critically analyse what type of modernity is needed to uproot economic and social inequality in Indian
villages. (200 Words) ................................................................................................................................... 58

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4. Open defecation in Bangladesh is almost non existent compared to India where it is widespread.
Critically examine social, economic and cultural reasons behind this practice in India and what should be
governments approach towards eliminating this practice. (200 Words)................................................... 58
5. The National Crime Records Bureau attests that recorded instances of rape grew at a much more
frenetic pace than any other crime in India over half a century. In your opinion, what are the causes of
this disturbing trend? Do you think strong laws will reduce rape crimes? Critically comment. (200 Words)
..................................................................................................................................................................... 59
6. Keeping in mind rural sociology and farmers interest in mind, if you are asked to come up with
humane and imaginative approach to land acquisition, rehabilitation and resettlement, what would that
be? Also, Comment. (200 Words) ............................................................................................................... 61
Role of women and womens organization, Population and Associated Issues, Poverty and
Developmental Issues, Urbanization: their Problems and their Remedies ............................................... 63
1. According to new data from the 2011 Census, the number of children born every year is declining
rapidly in India, but the slowdown is faster for baby girls as against baby boys. Examine the reasons and
implications of this disturbing trend. (200 Words) ..................................................................................... 63
2. The union government has decided to set up One-Stop Centres that will provide assistance, legal
advice and psychological counselling to women who have faced violence or abuse. Critically comment
on measures such as this one which try to address violence against women. (200 Words) .................... 63
3. Despite the gains women have made in education, health and even political power in the course of a
generation, violence against women and girls worldwide persists at alarmingly high levels, according to
a United Nations analysis. Critically analyse the magnitude of this problem and suggest what needs to
be done at global level to address this issue. (200 Words) ......................................................................... 65
4. An interesting way of studying the population composition of a country is by looking at the population
pyramid, also called an age-sex pyramid. With examples, examine how this pyramid helps in studying
population composition of a country. (200 Words) .................................................................................... 66
5. What are the significant features of the National Population Policy 2000? Evaluate how effective this
policy has been in meeting its objectives. (200 Words) .............................................................................. 67
6. The empowerment and improvement in the status of women must not only be economically and
socially but also in terms of good health and hygiene at workplace. Critically comment. (200 Words) . 68
7. How is literacy measured in India? Why do you see variation in literacy rates between different states
in India? Examine the socio-economic causes behind such differences. (200 Words) ............................... 69
8. India has a gender participation gap that is higher than all Group of Twenty (G-20) nations other than
Saudi Arabia. Critically examine its reasons and implications. (200 Words)............................................... 70
9. Apart from regional inequality at national level, many states in India have intra-state regional
inequality that has hampered their overall growth and development. Critically analyse such intra-state
regional inequality by taking examples of any two states. (200 Words) .................................................... 71
10. Smart cities need to be designed keeping in mind our biggest objectives sustainable inclusive
development and social transformation. Critically examine if the governments smart city project meets
these two objectives. (200 Words).............................................................................................................. 72
11. Critically comment on the design, objectives and performance of the Twenty Point Programme of the
government of India. (200 Words) .............................................................................................................. 73

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12. Many countries around the world have tried to replicate the Singapore Model of city-state
administration and have failed. Critically examine the merits and demerits of this model and examine if
this model is suitable for replication in Indias metropolitan cities. (200 Words) ...................................... 73
13. The growing problem of increase in the size of slums should be seen in light of the effects of price
control, rather than simply as a matter of a gap in housing demand required to be subsidized through
increased spending by government. Elaborate and suggest what should be governments approach
towards providing affordable housing to the urban poor. (200 Words) .................................................... 75
Effects of globalization on Indian society ................................................................................................. 77
1. The State of the elderly in India: 2014 report serves to highlight the dichotomy between an
apparently happy picture of increased longevity and the reality of long years of hopelessness without
family, society or state support, which the elderly in India face today. Critically analyse. (200 Words) .. 77
Social empowerment, Communalism, Regionalism and Secularism ......................................................... 78
1. Any restriction on religious conversion, whether on ground of social tension or changing
demographics or national character, will amount to a serious violation of the fundamental right to
freedom of religion. Critically comment. (200 Words) ............................................................................. 78
2. Critically analyse the importance of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1,325 in the
empowerment of women and the challenges in its implementation. (200 Words) ................................... 78
3. Pakistans history is a testament to the fact that religion cannot knit together a people divided along
regional lines. Critically analyse. (200 Words) ........................................................................................... 79
Salient features of worlds physical geography (includes India) ............................................................... 81
1. How did Northern Plains of India originate? Describe their prominent features and their importance to
Indias economy. (200 Words)..................................................................................................................... 81
2. What are the major differences between Peninsular Rivers and the Himalayan Rivers of India? Do you
think linking of peninsular rivers with the Himalayan Rivers is a feasible idea? Examine. (200 Words) .... 81
3. Write a note on the factors that control climate of India. Also explain the origin of monsoon rains in
layman terms. (200 Words) ......................................................................................................................... 82
Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian
Subcontinent); Factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries
in various parts of the world (including India )......................................................................................... 83
1. What are the different non-conventional sources of energy? Do you think they have been adequately
utilized in India? Critically examine. (200 Words) ....................................................................................... 83
2. What are the important factors that determine the location of an industry? With suitable examples,
examine the factors responsible for the location and growth of cotton industry around the world. (200
Words) ......................................................................................................................................................... 84
3. The potential of tourism industry in India remains untapped despite efforts made by successive
governments since independence. Suggest what proactive measures are needed to revive this sector.
(200 Words) ................................................................................................................................................. 84
4. Discuss why the Indian Ocean is considered as critical to the future of the world and India. (200 Words)
..................................................................................................................................................................... 85
5. As per recent news reports, the sugar industry of Uttar Pradesh is in deep crises. Critically examine the
roots of these crises and comment on them. (200 Words) ........................................................................ 86

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Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.
Geographical features and their location - changes in critical geographical features (including
waterbodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna the effects of such changes ......................................... 87
1. Critically discuss the effects of deforestation on Indian economy. (200 Words).................................... 87
2. Landslides have become frequent hazards in the Himalayan regions. Examine the causes of these
landslides and measures needed to mitigate them. (200 Words) .............................................................. 87
3. Write a critical note on the effect of soil erosion on the environment and methods used in soil
conservation. (200 Words) .......................................................................................................................... 88
4. Write a critical note on river pollution in India and the measures taken by the Union government to
clean polluted rivers. (200 Words) .............................................................................................................. 89
5. How different is the flora of Western Himalayas from that of Eastern Himalayas? Explain the reasons
behind these differences. (150 Words) ....................................................................................................... 89
6. Examine the dangers that Indias agriculture face from climate change effects. In your opinion, what
strategies need to be adopted by various stakeholders to minimise or mitigate adverse effects of climate
change? Examine. (200 Words) ................................................................................................................... 90
7. According to the UNs Food and Agriculture Organisation, the world on average has just 60 more years
of growing crops. This is because of degradation of soil health around the world. Critically examine the
importance of soil to humans, causes of their degradation and urgent measures needed to revive their
health. (200 Words) ..................................................................................................................................... 90
8. China has more than 26,000 large dams, more than the rest of the world combined. Recently concerns
have been expressed about the ecological cost of these dams, especially in the Tibet region. Critically
examine the issue. (200 Words) .................................................................................................................. 92

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Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of art forms, literature and
architecture from ancient to modern times
1. Lomas Rishi Caves in the Barabar Hills of Bihar and gateways of some of Buddhist stupas are an
excellent example showing true imitations in stone of early wooden constructions. Examine.
(150 Words)
CCRT (Indus Civilization)
CCRT (Buddhist Architecture)
Answer:
[1]
The Mauryan period was initially dominated by timber as is corroborated by accounts of Kautilya and
Megasthenes. Ashoka was the first Mauryan to think in stone. The stone masonry and carvings were
imported to India during Ashoka from Persia according to the similar signs are seen in Persepolis. So the
gradual transition from wood to stone happened.
Lomas rishi cave was excavated during Ashoka for Ajivak sect. The entrance of the cave imitates hut
entrance on stone. The back of the roof is made of bent timber and the carved frieze of elephants is an
imitation of previous woodwork. Besides there is a stone imitation of trellis work made of small piece of
bamboo.
Besides, various Buddhist architecture also exists that support the argument in the question. Stupas were
built over ashes of Buddha. The stupas of Sanchi, Bharhut, Gaya, Amravati and Naharjunkonda are famous
for their entrances, torans, with upright pillars and crossbars based on wooden style, on which relief was
carved in various Buddha symbols. The stupa of Sanchi was enlarged to enclose the original one and railing
was made of stone replacing wood. In chaityas also, like at Karle, rafters and cross beams were carved in
the rock though they serves no purpose. Chaityas also had wooden roof or pillars supporting a vaults roof, a
ribbing inspired by wooden architecture.
[2]
During Mauryan period there was a gradual shift from the use of wood to stone. Lomas Rishi caves from
Bihar and gateways of Buddhist stupas like Bharhut, Sanchi and Bodh Gaya are apparent examples.
The following can be seen as evident examples of stone imitations of wood in architecture:
1) Lomas Rishi Cave: a) Stone imitation of carved frieze of elephant. b) Stone imitation of trellis work made
of small stick of bamboo
2) Sanchi Stupa: Originally the stupa was made of bricks and surrounded by a wooden railing. The existing
stupa at Sanchi encloses the original stupa and has been enlarged and enclosed within the stone railing or
balustrade, when stone was adopted in the place of wood.
3) The railing and gateways at Bharhut, Sanchi and Bodh Gaya: Upright pillars and cross bars, based on
wooden construction, were made. On these surfaces are carved the favourite symbols of Buddhism, the
lotus, elephant, bull, lion and horse and some of the Jataka stories of the previous births of Buddha,
depicted in low relief

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2. Compare and contrast the Indo-Islamic architecture with that of temple architecture in India.
(200 Words)
CCRT (Indo - Islamic Architecture)
Answer:
[1]
Indo-Islamic Architecture:
(1.) Started with 12th Century after Turks settled in India subcontinents.
(2.) Turks and Afghans Muslims having inherited a wealth of varied designs from Sassanian and Byzantine
empires and being naturally endowed with good taste for buildings
(3.) Ornamental decoration, open space for prayer toward mecca(quibla), light and open, lesser decoration
in prayer hall, purdah hall system for females coming for prayer, tower/minaret to call prayer(azaan),
(4.) Re-brought the fashion of true arch, trabeate (horizontal layers of bricks in arch, lintel). Often contained
qabr at centre if it is masouleum, arches, domes, minars and minarets, the pendentive, squinch arch, half
domed double portals, kiosks (chhatris) and the use of concrete as a factor of construction
(5.) Ornamental decoration contains non-human figures, mainly floral decoration, symmetry, rhythmic
pattern, Arabic writing in beautiful way.
(6.) The Muslims, like the Romans, were also responsible for making extensive use of concrete and lime
mortar as an important factor of construction and incidentally used lime as plaster and a base for
decoration which was incised into it and held enamel work on tiles.
(7.) Elaborate gardens like charbagh, fountains were given importance.
Indian Temple Architecture:
(1.) Small prayer hall, many pillars, shikharas, small garbha-griha, mandapas.
(2.) Initially Arch was used but during Maurya and Magadha time, Arch usage disappeared and after later
part of 14th century remerged in southern India.
(3.) Ornamental decoration was largely containing animal, humans motifs and postures.
(4.) Use of sandstone was important to carve delicate motifs.
[2]
Commons to Indo -Islamic and Temple architecture
~Ornamental designs and their use in mosque as well as temple
~ Row of colour surrounding the Open courts in Both
~Both have the Architectural structure in front of which prayer are offered [However Muslims arch have
become mere structure while of temples have evolved ]
Contrast features
~Mosque open and spacious, temples were dark and closed
~Construction with dome shaped, While temple with have shikharas and Vimaanas depending over Nagara

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or Dravidian style of temples

~Prayers in front of deity, in Garbha Griha. While in mecca it is pointing towards the Mihrab. Imam presided
to its right over proceeding of the prayers
~Mosque were perfected by Arch shape, while temple may have known but ceiling were mostly flat
~Lime was though known for stacking mud brick and stones However it was Islamic architecture which used
cementing age t mortar perfecting the architecture with strength and stability.
~Ornamental features of Muslims were flowers, Arabic writing, decorating features while that of temples
were Deities, human forms etc.
3. Do we have anything today as representative of Modern Architecture which could be compared with
our old buildings? Critically examine. (200 Words)
CCRT (Modern Architecture)
Answer:
The architecture practices of modern times were quite different from Indian old buildings but till share
some common features.
The modern form of architecture was developed by the distinct and far more developed advanced British
regime while the old buildings range from ancient India to the medieval Indian architecture.
The common features which they share are1. Use of stone: The immense use of stone was common in both cases. The modern Rashtrapati Bhavan and
the medieval red fort of Delhi and Agra are example of it.
2. Glorification of the architecture: The architecture of modern and old times was equally glorified. They
represent the pride of the ruling regime. The viceroy palace of Shimla and the Chola temples and Taj Mahal
are the examples of the same.
3. Vastness of architecture. They cover a huge area and height. The Rashtrapati Bhavan region covers north
and south blocks too and similarly, the Shahjahanabad and the Fatehpur Sikri represents the vastness and
height at the same time.
Besides these similarities, both types of architectures have many differences.
1. The British style of architecture was dominant in recent times. e.g. - Connaught place.
2. More efforts were made for the living place architecture and not just for the glory of the regime. e.g. Lutyen's Delhi.
3. The modern architecture was limited to Britishers only and Indians remain aloof but it wasn't the case in
old times. Indian people had main role in making of Taj Mahal.
4. Industrialisation changed the style of construction from hammer and chisel to latest technology.
5. The thin designs and art of architects is missing in recent times. E.g. - Dilwara Jain Temple.
Thus, though the representatives of modern architectures can be compared with old buildings in some way,
but there distinct traits make them class apart and best in their own fields.

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4. Unlike in Europe where, by the 17th century, French and English had broken with the dominance of
Latin to create not just literature, but also philosophy, historiography, sociology, science etc. in their
tongues, in India the achievement of regional languages beyond the crucial (and yet also limited) domain
of literature is a major impediment. In the light of ongoing movements to make regional languages
medium of instruction in schools and politics associated with them, critically examine why regional
languages have failed to excel in fields other than literature. (200 Words)
The Hindu (New voices in an age-old debate)
Answer:
[1]
After independence, the leaders of new Indian nation recognized the opportunity to unite all the regions of
India with a common, universal language. Thus, the following requirements were pointed out by Mahatma
Gandhi for any language to be accepted as the national language:
-It must be easy to learn for government officials and for the whole country.
-Capable of serving as a medium of religious, economic and political intercourse throughout India.
-It must be spoken by the majority.
As a result, Hindi was chosen as a national language and on Nehru's assurance it was never imposed on
people in non-Hindi areas where English started playing a prominent role as an official language in addition
to the regional language.
-The educational consequence was that many children have to learn 2 languages (English and Hindi) next to
their mother tongue in school and other children speaking a non-official minority language are taught 3
languages.
-In general, schools using regional language as the medium of instruction have come to be associated with
poor quality, mainly because most of them are government run and hence not held accountable.
-While the government encourages the idea of teaching and learning in the regional languages (Three
Language Formula, etc.), the truth is that most students have to know English to do well in higher
education. Students learning in regional languages do not have the kind of resources they need, as English
books are not translated into their regional languages. Even though some higher education courses are
available in regional languages, the demand for these is less.
-Given the multitude of problems and the diversity of languages, the medium of instruction remains a topic
of impassioned debate. Language is seen as a factor fuelling nationalistic pride.
Despite govt trying to kindle linguistic pride, many parents still see English could help their wards find
employment and thus regional languages failed to make an impact in the education and other fields of
India.
[2]
In this era of globalization, Spencer's idea of survival of fittest still holds ground even for development and
growth of languages. With time, Latin and Greek language slowly gave way to English first British then US
and the recent trend shows inclination towards mandarin. But why Indian regional languages did not evolve
with time esp. in fields other than literature?
Factors responsible for lack of development of regional languages are:
1) British education policy during colonial era, which provided science and higher education in English
language only. This resulted in maximum usage of English at all level.

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2) Globalization resulted in maximizing usage of only English.

3) Lack of basic education in regional language at school level. Its reason can be attributed to lack of books
in such regional languages which again shows lack of conviction in translation of study materials. And also
lack of teachers of these language.
4) Modern era of cyber technology, R&D, science and technology etc. developed in English speaking
countries and later India adopted them without modifying them to suit regional language.
5) Economy is also affects language culture, as India or any of its linguistic group did not have any strong
hold on World economy, languages do not find much users.
6) Neglecting regional language, using them only at house hold level, making English language as status
symbol etc. has given a death blow to regional language.
Though Indian government and constitution provides many policies and regulations by which all regional
language could be preserved and developed but very lack of political and social will still remain biggest
hindrance in this path.
5. Write a note on the significance of the statue of dancing girl of Mohenjodaro to Indias art and culture.
(150 Words)
CCRT (Indus Civilization)
Answer:
One of the rarest artefacts world-over, a tiny bronze-cast, the statue of a young lady called 'Indus dancing
girl', represents a stylistically poised female figure performing a dance. The bronze statue is hardly four
inches high yet speaks ample of the superb craftsmanship and of the caster's skills.
Significance1) SOCIAL OUTLOOK- The forward thrust of the left leg and backwards tilted right, the gesture of the hands,
demeanour of the face and uplifted head, all speak of absorption in dance, perhaps one of those early
styles that combined drama with dance, and dialogue with body-gestures. It was a well-developed society,
Indus people had innovated dance and other performing arts as modes of entertainment. Her elaborately
coiled hair, her bangles and necklaces speaks of social life of India at that time.
2)SCIENTIFIC & TECHNICAL OUTLOOK- But its most interesting aspect is that in casting it the Harappan
metallurgists used an advanced technique known as the lost-wax (cire perdue) process. The Indus artists
knew metal blending and casting and perhaps other technical aspects of metallurgy
3) SKILL OF ART & HANDICRAFT -The figure has been cast as wearing on her breasts a necklace with four
'phalis' like shaped pendants.
4) DRESS, HAIR STYLES & ORNAMENTS - Women loved jewellery and wore heavy bangles in profusion, large
necklaces, and earrings.
5) WOMENS STATUS- With hand on hip, and the expression of self-assurance on her face, it represents a
respected & confident woman of Harappan society.

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6) NON SHYING SOCIETY - This small figure confirms that the Harappan people were neither shy of
nakedness nor of explicit sensuality.
6. Examine the influence of Buddhism and its concepts on the art of Mauryan Empire with suitable
examples. (150 Words)
CCRT (Buddhist Sculpture)
Answer:
Ashoka made a dramatic conversion to Buddhism after witnessing the carnage that resulted from his
conquest of Kalinga. He adopted the teachings of the Buddha known as the Four Noble Truths, referred to
as the dharma. We can see following influence of Buddhism and its concepts on the art of Mauryan Empire.
Influence of Buddhism and its concepts on the art of Mauryan Empire -:
1. The physical appearance of the pillars underscores the Buddhist doctrine. Most of the pillars were
topped by sculptures of animals.
2. Each pillar is also topped by an inverted lotus flower, which is the most pervasive symbol of Buddhism (a
lotus flower rises from the muddy water to bloom unblemished on the surfacethus the lotus became an
analogy for the Buddhist practitioner as he or she, living with the challenges of everyday life and the
endless cycle of birth and rebirth, was able to achieve Enlightenment).
3. This flower, and the animal that surmount it, form the capital, the topmost part of a column. Most pillars
are topped with a single lion or a bull in either seated or standing positions. The Buddha was born into the
Shakya or lion clan. The lion, in many cultures, also indicates royalty or leadership. The animals are always
in the round and carved from a single piece of stone.
4. They were also erected at pilgrimage sites such as at Bodh Gaya, the place of Buddhas Enlightenment,
and Sarnath, the site of his First Sermon and Sanchi, where the Mahastupa, the Great Stupa of Sanchi, is
located. Stupa is a burial mound for an esteemed person. When the Buddha died, he was cremated and his
ashes were divided and buried in several stupas. These stupas became pilgrimage sites for Buddhist
practitioners.
5. Several symbols became popular as stand-ins for the human likeness of the Buddha. The lotus, as noted
above, is one. The lion, which is typically seen on the Ashokan pillars, is another.
6. The wheel (chakra) is a symbol of both samsara, the endless circle of birth and rebirth, and the dharma,
the Four Noble Truths.
7. Gupta sculpture is the logical outcome of the early classical sculpture of Amravati and Mathura.
Discuss with examples. (150 Words)
CCRT (Gupta Sculpture)
Answer:
[1]
The Gupta period can be described as classic in the sense of the degree of perfection never achieved
before or since, and in the perfect balance and harmony of all elements in style and iconography.
Mathura art flourished during Kushana period. Numbers of sculptures of Buddha and Brahmanical deities
were carved which included Kartikeya, Vishnu, and Kubera in Mathura art.

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Amravati art flourished during Satavahanas and Ikshavaku rules. The main characteristic of the Amravati
school is the narrative art. The medallions were carved in such a manner that they depict an incident in a
natural way ex: taming of an elephant by Buddha.
Gupta art shows an emphasis on Hindu art carried from Kushana period and the climax of Buddha art and
all combined tendencies of Amravati School seen at Udayagiri caves where narrative Vishnu figures can be
seen. Gupta art also showed exemplary tolerance for both Buddhism and Jainism.
So, it can be concluded that Gupta sculpture is the logical outcome of early art forms of Kushana and
Satavahanas period.
[2]
The Gupta sculptures not only remained models of Indian art for all time to come but they also served as
ideals for the Indian colonies in the Far East. The finished mastery in execution and the majestic serenity of
expression of the image of Buddha came to be adopted and locally modified by Siam, Cambodia, Burma,
Java, Central Asia, China and Japan, etc. In the Gupta period all the trends and tendencies of the artistic
pursuits of the proceeding phases reached
their culmination in a unified plastic tradition of supreme importance in Indian History.
1. The art of the Gupta is considered as the pinnacle of Indian Buddhist art. Hellenistic elements are still
clearly visible in the purity of the statuary and the folds of the clothing, but are improved upon with a very
delicate rendering of the draping and a sort of radiance reinforced by the usage of pink sandstone. Artistic
details tend to be less realistic, as seen in the symbolic shell-like curls used to render the hairstyle of the
Buddha. Stone and bronze images of Buddha have also been found at Mathura and other places.
2. The magnificent red sandstone image of the Buddha from Mathura is a great example of Gupta
workmanship datable to the 5th century A.D.
3. The image of the standing Lord Buddha is an excellent example of Gupta sculpture. The moulded figure
has its right hand in the attitude of assuring protection. Wheel of Law is one of
the masterly creations of Gupta classical sculpture. The image is carved in Chunar sandstone and has a
surface texture of smoothness. The decorative prabhas are characteristic also of Mathura images.
4. A representation of Vishnu belongs to the Gupta period, 5th century A.D., and comes from Mathura. The
typical gown, the vanamala; the string of pearls twirled round the neck, the long and elegant yagnopavita
are characteristics of early Gupta sculpture.
So we can say Gupta sculpture is the logical outcome of the early classical sculpture of Amravati and
Mathura. Its grace is derived from that of Mathura and its elegance from that of Amravati. Gupta sculpture
seems to belong to a sphere that is entirely different.
8. Describe the nature and form of wall paintings of Ajanta caves. (200 Words)
CCRT (Wall Painting)
Answer:
The wall paintings of Ajanta caves belong to period between 2nd century BCE and 7th century CE.
NATURE: they are mainly religious in their content depicting Buddhist scriptures (especially Jataka) except
few places where Hindu religious gods are represented.
FORM: As they are drawn over many centuries and by artisan belonging to various guilds they show great
stylistic variation along with maintaining certain common features.

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The common features are...

>Centrality
>perspective drawing
>common physical features such as half closed eyes
>black outline with various body colours
Early paintings are naturalistic without over stylisation whereas later ones are more sophisticated and fluid.
Their evolution was parallel and similar to the evolution of Buddhist sculpture .ex: Sanchi and Vengi
sculpture
The greatness of these paintings lies in their success in bringing out the philosophy of Buddhism in paintings
ex: Padmapani painting showing bitterness of renunciation of life and hope for future happiness.
They were the inspiration for paintings in southern region. They also attained the status of World heritage
site status and continue to inspire present generations.
9. Write short notes on the following in about 100 words:
a) The Mughal School of Painting
b) Basohli School of Painting
c) Kangra School of Painting
CCRT (Miniature Painting)
Answer:
a) The Mughal School of Painting (Words: 114)
Mughal painting developed under Akbar and his successors. They can be classified into two categories: 1.
Persian factor is prominent, 2. Portraits.
The former consists of illustration in manuscripts and the latter portraits mounted as album pages. The
representation of historical events, typical darbar scenes show the true character of the Mughal style of
painting.
Most significant are Hamza Nama, Razm-Nama or The Book of War, Akbar Nama.
Mughal artists were influenced by European subject matter, motifs, and techniques. So, they gradually
abandoned the Persian mode of colouring and took to the technique of representing consistent lighting
through chiaroscuro. During Jahangirs time Animal paintings reached new height. Shah Jahan Nama was
also vital work.
b) Basohli School of Painting (Words-110)
Basohli painting existed in Basohli a tiny state between the rivers of Ravi and Chenab.
Emotional scenes from a text called Rasamanjari formed the theme for these paintings, besides the
Krishna legend. Paintings are splendidly coloured each colour describing a particular emotion. A Plain
background was preferred as that the figures would be prominent. The origin of this school of painting is a
subject of debate some attributing it to Rajasthan having much in common with the Rajasthani painting and
some saying it has impact of Mughal miniature techniques.
The state of Gular drew inspiration from Basohli painting but developed a style of its own.

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c) Kangra School of Painting (Words: ~110)

The Kangra School refers to the painting which existed in the Kangra valley and in the adjacent Punjab
plains. In Kangra paintings the main theme is the story of Lord Krishna. There are some naturalistic
drawings of flowers and fruits but no "Ragamalas". The colour is tender and charming. The eyes of figures
are long strokes of the brush as in the Ajanta paintings. The paintings are realistic and prove that the artists
have studied nature.
The Kangra style can be seen in the paintings during the period of Shah Jahan in whose time Molaram, a
painter was a descendant of Rajput painters, worked at the Mughal court.
10. With suitable examples, explain what features describe the modern school of Indian painting. (200
Words)
CCRT (Modern Painting)
Answer:
[1]
The modern school of Indian painting has its period of ups and downs which reached its zenith in a
completely new form only after second decade of the twentieths century. Some of the important features
of the modern painting in India that are worth mentioning are:
1. In the early years of the twentieths century, the Bengal School of painting led by Abanindra Nath Tagore,
the nephew of Rabindra Nath Tagore, gained prominence but waned after the fourth decade. This art
mainly drew it's inspiration from the spirituality and religion .Deities images were painted.
2. Western influence started to make impact on the Indian Art, especially after the Second World War,
gaining styles that used Western ideas of composition, perspective and realism to illustrate the Indian
theme.
3. The painter depicted greater sense of visual and sensory level, particularly with regard to colour, the
concept of design and structure, texture and in the use of unconventional materials.
4. While the influence was Western, the images reflected the rich tradition of India. Problems and misery of
daily life, folk stories, ancient kings, visual images of Hindu deities were depicted in the paintings.
Nationalism also found its place in the images. The Images that inspired the nationalists and freedom
fighters were drawn. One such was the image of Bharat Mata depicting a goddess sitting on her lion,
holding spear and weapons became the figure of the freedom movement.
5. Art acquired autonomy of its own and artist was highly valued .A new genre of art came into being called
the Pseudo realism under Devajyoti Ray which depicted regular scenes of the Indian life into fantastic
images.
[2]
For the sake of chronology, the Modern period in Indian art is said to have begun in 1857. It was called
'modern' due to Western influence evident in the work of Raja Ravi Verma who is considered the foremost
exponent of the style. Lady in moonlight and Ravana kidnapping Sita are two of his famous paintings. These
paintings are in the western naturalistic style using oil paint and easel painting and not for glorification.
The Bengal school developed as a reactionary style. It was characterised by simple colours and was
distinctly nostalgic and romantic. The Bengal school developed under Abhinidra Nath Tagore and came to
dominate for the next three decades until it declined in the 1940s. Rabindranath Tagore's paintings also

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belong to the same school. Its main features are use of simple colours, dominant black lines, sense of
rhythm and small size paintings. E.g.: Abhinidra Nath Tagore's Arabian Night series.
Eventually, the modern school came to be characterised by an international aesthetic of abstract form,
emphasis on the individuals sensory perception of colour, form, structure and medium. These were
explored by artist like Amrita Shergill and later by Tyeb Mehta, Jamini Roy, and MF Hussain etc.
11. Write a note on different aspects of Indias traditional dance system. (200 Words)
CCRT (Classical Dances)
Answer:
[1]
Dance has always been considered ad a complete art and has had close association with god and worship.
The earliest examples of dance in India can be traced back to the dancing pictures in Bhimbetka caves and
bronze statue of dancing girl of Mohenjodaro. Bharatmuni's Natyashastra is a famous treatise on Natya
which includes dance as well. Other works are like Nandikeshwar's AbhinayaDarpan.
1. Sangeet Natak Academy confers "classical" status on 8 dances: Bharatnatyam of Tamil Nadu, Kuchipudi
of Andhra Pradesh, Kathakali and Mohiniattam of Kerala, Kathak of Uttar Pradesh, Sattriya of Assam, Odissi
of Odisha and Manipuri of Manipur. This is on the basis of their history.
2. Dance forms in India were kept alive by devadasis and later revived by various artists.
3. Dance has two aspects: Tandava and Lasya. Tandava emphasizes on body movements and masculinity
while Lasya focusses on grace and abhinaya, so more feminine.
4. Earlier dances were segregated exclusively for females or males but now group, solos and mixed are
common.
5. Dances were scripted around 9 rasas or emotions like heroism, love, anger, etc. Themes were derived
from mythology like Radha-Krishna, Shiva-Parvati, etc. Many Muslim kings also added their elements and
learnt traditional dance like Nawab Wajid Ali of Oudh.
6. Performance of these dances usually begins with invocation of god, mostly Ganesha, then the tempo is
slowly raised to more rhythmic movements, and musical instruments played.
7. Besides, many folk dances are also prevalent amongst tribes. Kalbelia of Rajasthan and Chhau of Bihar,
Bengal is on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Besides, Bihu of Assam, Garba and Dandiya of
Gujarat, Ghoomat of Rajasthan, etc. are famous.
[2]
Indian dance dates back to ancient and came light in form of Mohenjodaro bronze statue which have a
dance pose & by Bharat Muni's Natyashastra, the source book of the art of drama, dance and music which
came in the form of literature.
As per the ancient work, dance classification done on basis of theme: 1) Natya 2) Nritya 3) Nritta.
Natya: Which highlights the dramatic element; Nritya: is expressional and performed specifically to convey
the meaning of a theme or idea; Nritta: is pure dance where body movements do not express any mood
nor do they convey any meaning.
Classification on basis of styles : Tandava : the masculine, is heroic bold and vigorous ;
Lasya : the feminine is soft, lyrical and graceful ; Abhinaya : broadly means expression;
vachika : song and speech ; aharya :costume and adornment; satvika :moods and emotions.
Classification on basis of presentation: Natyadharmi: which is the formalised presentation of theatre;
Lokadharmi: sometimes translated as folk, realistic, naturalistic or regional.

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Indian dances like Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Manipuri, Odissi, and Sattriya are inherited with one
of those forms and have unique blend of the aspects, which makes it more glorious.
12. Compare and contrast expression and art forms between Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi. (200 Words)
CCRT (Bharatnatyam)
CCRT (Kuchipudi)
Answer:
Both forms Classical dances of India with following similarities and differences:
Comparatives
1. Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam have many mudras in common. Apart from the similarity, there are three
unique steps of Kuchipudi. Natya, Nritta and Nritya and three famous mudras related to Bharatanatyam.
2. Cross pleat costume is used in Bharatanatyam. Cross pleat costume is associated with Kuchipudi dance.
In this the male artists plays the role of either Muruga or Krishna.
3. Bharatanatyam music is of Carnatic style and the accompanying instruments are thala, flute, violin, and
veena. Sanskrit, Tamil and Kannada are the languages of Bharatanatyam.
Kuchipudi is colloquial form of the Sanskrit term Kuseelavapuri. It is also Carnatic form of music.
Contrasts
1. Bharatnatyam is precisely known for its elegance, grace, softness, clarity and sculptured poses. On the
other hand most of the poses in Kuchipudi are brisk, flat-footed, dazzling and overall curved having more
rounded poses.
2. Bharatnatyam is termed the fire dance replicating the inner fire within the human body. On the other
hand, Kuchipudi replicates mans undying desire to unite with God.
3. Bharatanatyam is a solo, lasya type of a dance, which is tender and erotic. Kuchipudi combines lasya and
tandav elements, folk and classical shades.
4. Prescribed costumes and ornaments are strictly followed in Kuchipudi.
5. Bharatanatyam has "Alairppu" a pure dance without any meaning or expression just accompanied by the
syllables of the performer and set to the thala (beat), while Kuchipudi is devotional dance which leads to
salvation to the performer, it is based on Bhagavat Purana.
13. Write a note on the influence of religion and religious practices on some of Indias traditional dance
forms. (200 Words)
CCRT (Sattriya)
Answer:
Dance has always been considered a complete art. It was seen as a means of praising the Almighty and
trying to connect with God. Religion had influences on all dance forms of India:
1. Traditional dance forms are derived from Bharatmuni's Natyashashtra. He considered the source of art to
Brahma who created the fifth Veda, NatyaVed.
2. Nataraja, the dancing Shiva, represents destruction, end ams release from bondage.
3. Traditional dance forms were kept alive by devadasis who performed at temples.
4. Bharatnatyam is called fire dance and its moves resembles a dancing flame. The performer's right hand is

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in shape of OM.
The dancer invokes God at the start and seeks blessings at the end.
5. Kuchipudi represents an intense desire to unite with God. Most of the themes are inspired by
Vaishnavism like Radha-Krishna, etc.
6. Kathak, in North India, originated from gesticulations of story tellers who preached stories from
mythology.
7. Kathakali represents eternal fight between good and bad. Mohiniattam is inspired by Mohini (a Lord
Vishnu avatar).
8. Manipuri has legendary references to Shiva-Parvati. Sattriya dance was kept alive by Sattras, the
Vaishnava Math.
9. Garba and Dandiya of Gujarat are performed in Navratri.
Thus, religion and mythology have played a significant role in originating, inspiring, protecting and
propagating dance forms.
14. Examine the roots of classical Indian music and its evolution into major forms. (200 Words)
CCRT (Hindustani Classical Music)
Answer:
[1]
There are divergent views about the exact roots and origin of classical Indian music but all of them agree on
one single issue that music during its initial years in India was closely associated with prevalent tradition,
religious customs and celebrations and it has continued till now also. However, the origin of classical Indian
Music can be traced mainly to:
1. Origin of classical music can be traced to Vedas and popular scriptures. The Sam Veda contained shlokas
chanted in form of hymns with certain pitch and tones.
2. Some ancient works like Natyashashtra, compiled by as a sage called Bharat between 2nd BC to 2nd AC
contains six chapters on music. In Matang's Brihaddesi (compiled between 9th and 10th century AD) Ragas
were first named and discussed in details. Another text, Sangeet Ratnakara compiled by Sarangdev contains
264 ragas.
3. Many ancient rulers were patrons of music. The Gupta monarch Samudra Gupta was himself an
accomplished musician. Jaydev of Orissa, twelfth century, produced the Gita Govinda, a brilliant
composition of songs set in Ragas on the theme of the love of Radha and Krishna .In medieval period, Sufi
and bhakti movement encouraged music.
4. Hindustani classical music can be traced back to the period of the Delhi Sultanate and to Amir Khusrau
(AD 1253-1325) who is believed to have invented the sitar and the tabla and is said to have introduced new
ragas.
Various forms into which Classical Indian Music evolved:
1. Hindustani music (North India music): founded in north India .Has two main forms, Khyal and Dhrupad
.Sarangi, harmonium, tanpura, veena, sehnai, santoor and tabla etc. are chief musical instruments used.
2. Carnatic music: founded in south India More rhythmical and structured than Hindustani music. Chief
instruments are veena, mridangam, kanjira, harmonium and ghatam etc.
Similarity between both: both have 12 notes in a scale .Both accepts the relation between 'Raga' and it's
'That'
[2]

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Indian classical music is based on the predominance of melody as opposed to western music which
emphasizes harmony.
The musical sounds give pleasure and happiness to the listeners. Ancient seers might have listened to the
music produced by the elements of nature and felt pleasure and harmony. It is believed that the seven
notes, sa, ri, ga, ma, pa, dha, ni emanated from the cries of birds and animals.
Performance of classical music (vocal or instrumental) is tuned to a particular pitch (sruthi), around which
melodic entities called ragas are evolved. The music is improvised on these ragas each of which prescribe a
set of melodic positions. Rhythmic improvisation called talas length of time cycle.
Shakespeare said The man that has no music in himself, nor is moved with concord of sweet sound, is fit
for treasons, stratagems and spoils.
Over the years Indian music has grown and undergone changes but not without retaining its aesthetic and
elevating spirit. Different schools developed, achieving different characteristics and forms, but ragas and
raginis have retained the standard scale which forms the bases of music.
Indian music, with the passing of centuries, has enriched itself by assimilating good features from other
systems of music. For example, Hindustani music has been influenced by Aryan and Dravidian civilizations
and the Muslim invaders from Afghanistan and Central Asia also exercised their influence on it.
15. Analyse the major differences between Carnatic and Hindustani classical music forms. (200 Words)
CCRT (Carnatic Classical Music)
Answer:
[1]
The major differences between Hindustani classical and Carnatic music forms are:
1. Region: Hindustani classical developed in north India and Carnatic in south Indian
2. Influence: Hindustani music has Arab, Persian and Afghan influences while Carnatic is completely
indigenous.
3. Freedom: Artists given freedom to improvise hence variations while Carnatic music has no such freedom.
4. Substyles: There are substyles hence 'gharanas' present while Carnatic has only one prescribed style of
singing.
5. Instruments: Instruments have an equally important role in Hindustani style while there is more
emphasis on vocal music in Carnatic music. Tabla, sarangi, sitar and santoor are essential to Hindustani
classical while veena, mridangam and mandolin to Carnatic and flute and violin are common to both.
6. Type: Hindustani has emotional music while Carnatic is intellectual and spiritual.
7. Ragas: Six principle ragas in Hindustani while Carnatic has 72 raga- melakarta
8. Time: Hindustani has specific ragas for specific time while Carnatic does not adhere to such
specifications.
[2]

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Both Carnatic and Hindustani music originated from Sama Veda and are governed by the same laws of
music.
Carnatic music forms:
The bhava as body and raga as soul, South Indian Carnatic music induces bhakti which is the very
essence of Indian music.
Today 1500 ragas exist which owes their existence to the melakarta scheme.
Kritis were composed in the pattern of pallavi, anupallavi and charanam, it is greatest contribution to
Carnatic music.
The 17th century saw the glory of padmas songs composed by the great musician, Kshetragna. They
were more suited to natya since they were embedded with raga and bhava with sublime rasas.
New forms like pada varnas, tana varnas, swarajati, jatiswara, ragamalika, tillanas, javallis, etc were
created.
Every creation has passed on to future generation by shishya parampara.
Carnatic Music has always room for improvisation and extemporization.
Hindustani music:
The famous Gharanas and the families preserved the Heritage of Hindustani music. Principal forms
are Dhrupad, Khayal, Thumri and Tappa.
The theme is usually either religion or an eulogy of some heroes. Presentation begins with Alap and the
theme is sung repeated with tempo. There is little scope for melodic improvisation.
Khayal is more elastic in its framework. Thumri and Tappa are comparatively lighter forms than Dhrupad
and Khayal. Thumri requires emotional and imaginative ability though not rigorous. Tappa is another light
form of music with free application of melodic decorations.
Qawwali, Ghazal Dhun and Gat are also part of Hindustani music.
Bhakti cult, spread through Carnatic devotional songs, while Sufism with Hindustani music.
16. Write a note on cultural significance of puppet forms and throw light on some forms of Southern
India. (200 Words)
CCRT (Puppet Forms)
Answer:
Puppet derived from word pupa means 'doll' but puppet is nowhere treated like a puppet but like a god
and stage of puppetry like a universe and its origin has been found in form of literature " Silappadikaaram "
puppetry is not only part of entertainment but also used to motivate emotionally and physically
handicapped students , brought many awareness programmes about natural and cultural environment,
communication through them help in development of personality of child , spread of Ramayana ,
Mahabharata and some puranic literatures with help of puppetry which marked its significance in wide
range . Presentation of puppetry on basis of its usage divided it into four forms namely string, shadow, rod
and glove puppets.
Some forms of South India :
Gombeyatta : A string puppet form of Karnataka , designed like characters in yakshagana and puppets are

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highly stylized and have joints at the legs, shoulders, elbows, hips and knees which makes them to use in
complicated movements.
Bommalattam: Popular in Tamil Nadu and it is combination of both rod and string puppets. They are made
of wood and the strings for manipulation are tied to an iron ring which the puppeteer wears like a crown on
his head. Puppet may be as big as 4.5 feet in height weighing about ten kilograms which makes heaviest of
all puppetry forms.
Tholu Bommalata: Shadow puppetry from Andhra Pradesh, unique feature of this form is they are coloured
on both sides and it makes puppets throw coloured shadows on the screen.
Pavakoothu: A glove puppetry of Kerala , came into existence due to influence of Kathakali and the face of
the puppets are decorated with paints, small and thin pieces of gilded tin, the feathers of the peacock
makes unique to this form , themes are mostly based on Ramayana or Mahabharata.
Puppetry not only spotted in southern states but as connected to whole country which makes our culture
more colourful in different forms with its unique blends.
17. What are the tangible and intangible cultural heritages of India? Write a critical note on the
institutional mechanism that exists to protect and propagate these cultural heritages.(200 Words)
India 2015/2014, Chapter 5, Culture and Tourism
Answer:
The culture of India is one of the oldest an unique. Various peoples and cultures that moved into this subcontinent were subjected to the dynamic factors imposed by her geography.
Tangible and Intangible Cultures
Tangible culture includes historic sites, buildings, villages, etc. Government has taken steps since preindependence era and after independence such as Establishment of Archaeological Survey of India,
National Museums, Gandhi Heritage Mission, Centre and Laboratories for Art, Science, Cultural Property,
Monuments and Antiquity, all these institutions are working to preserve India's tangible culture.
Intangible cultures are hard to preserve because they can get lost with social transformation, and era of
Change (modernization). There are UNESCO listed intangible sites in India to ensure their better
protection, examples Buddhist texts, Chhau dance, Ram leela, the tradition of Vedic chanting, etc.
Institutions listed above are many way incompetent to provide best services to preserve tangible cultures.
They lack funds and experts. Government pressure to handle and control some specific norms, ex: in 2013
on sadhu's dream has made the ASI digging for gold in UP.
Intangible culture needs government support in its empowerment for their experts. Ex: Shehnai players are
nearly on grounds of extinct due DJ Culture in marriages. There are less very colleges and schools which
promotes Indian art and culture.
Government must promote eco-tourism, local community welfare scheme, at sites of tangible culture, this
helps to conserve cultural traditions in areas that are at risk of losing touch with their ancestral customs
and cultural roots.

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18. Examine the main differences between the temples of the ancient period and the medieval period in
India with suitable examples. (150 Words)
Frontline (In tune with nature)
Answer:
[1]
Though temple architecture of medieval period inherited ideas from ancient, many distinguishable features
continued to be evolved over a period of time.
1. Rock cut architecture: It flourished in the ancient periods. Monolithic temple of Kailash temple in Ellora is
spectacular example of fine specimen of ancient India. Later periods, rocks were used only for structural
purpose just like bricks.
2. Diversity: In ancient India, there were mix of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain temples. During medieval period,
Hindu temples dominated as Buddhism and Jainism slowly declined.
3. Symbolism: The activity of temple building in medieval India was seen as strength of the Kings, whereas it
was not remarkable in ancient India.
4. Symbols of Worship: In early Buddhist temples, symbols like tree, chakra, animals used to instead of idols
of Buddha. In Gandhara art, Greek and Roman influence was clearly seen whereas in medieval temples
foreign influence was rare.
5. Construction Materials: Wooden beams were common in the Mauryan era. Later rocks in place of wood
used as construction materials.
[2]
Temples reflects a synthesis of arts, beliefs, values and ideals of dharma. Ancient temples differs from
medieval in following ways :
> Ancient temples(AT) were a wooden prototype (use of timber) with stone walls having minimal
decoration (Aihole temples in Karnataka) whereas Temples in medieval period had rich sculptural
decoration on walls, elegant pillared halls, large roofs and intricate work ,Example-Khajuraho temples
> AT were rock and cave cut, built to show true devotion to God whereas Medieval temple were symbolic
of ruler and his richness. Brhadisvara temple in Tamil Nadu built by king Rajaraja of Chola Dynasty was built
to show his military success
> AT portrayed Yakshis on walls whereas MT portrayed Apsaras
>Wooden beams were replaced by Iron beams in medieval period, E.g.: Brahmeshwar temple in Orissa
> Style of temple architecture in AT was similar in both Northern and southern Part of India, On the other
hand during medieval period three styles of temple architecture were developed - Nagara, Dravida and
Vesara
>AT showed Monolithic structure i.e. single rock temple, Kailash temple in Ellora whereas Temples built
during medieval period shows Multilithic structure like Jagannath temple of Orissa

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19. Examine the salient features of Mesolithic and chalcolithic cave paintings of India. Also examine,
what could have been the reasons for depicting more animal figures than human figures in cave
paintings? (200 Words)
NCERT, Class XI, Introduction to Indian Art, Chapter 1
Answer:
Mesolithic and chalcolithic cave paintings in India are crucial primary sources in understanding cavedwelling culture during these respective periods. Since time becomes a crucial component in the longevity
of any remain, the manner in which these paintings have survived have aided in predicting, socio-cultural
practices, dietary habits and get a snapshot of the ecological timeframe of the period. There are a few
salient features of cave paintings primarily fixed around the practice of social activities such as hunting and
group activities. These features are discussed below:
1) Most paintings are shown in multiple, whether a herd of animals, a gathering of people, or a collective
hand print design. The emphasis here is on the community, and the relevance and reliance on group
activities is clearly seen. An anthropological analysis would find this true as early communities relied on
strength in numbers and solitary habitation was fraught of dangers from animal attack, or simple lack of
access to food, shelter.
2) The variety of colours used for cave paintings ranges from white, black to red ochre, all easily accessible
based on the limited resources that were available at the time.
3) The choice in depiction of majority animals juxtaposed against human figures can hold multiple
significance:
a. The paintings could have been served as warning indicators for other groups, or the younger generation
to educate them of the dangers of these animals. The constant threat of the elements was controlled by
dwelling caves. But the sedentary nature of their diet, added a risk which the artist chose to portray as a
visual reminder.
b. Totemic significance where a source of food could have led to a realization of human-animal linkages.
The choice to show animal attacks on humans served a reminder full of awe of the power of their
prospective prey.
c. A simple reminder of the animals and an appreciation of what these settlers came across. The ability to
transcribe it in visual form on cave walls probably provided a new found appeal that wasnt realized before.
The decision to allot a majority of the canvas to these animals shows the artists appreciation for their
subject.
20. What kind of similarities and differences do you find between present-day terracotta and the Indus
Valley terracotta? Discuss. (200 Words)
NCERT, Class XI, Introduction to Indian Art, Chapter 2
Answer:
Major basic ingredients and techniques can be considered as similarities and as far as differences are
concerned.
Differences:

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1-> They were not aware of use of terracotta beyond art and craft. The art was associated with making
idols of local gods and goddesses.
2-> They were not aware that presence of organic compounds and its traces may harm the life of
terracotta.
3-> In Present day terracotta the life of product is not as vital as that of Indus one.
4-> The terracotta representations of human form were crude in the Indus Valley as compared to now.
5-> Terracotta is usually made from a fairly coarse, porous type of clay. This is first shaped then fired until
hard. In the Indus Valley, it was left to harden in the hot sun; later, it was baked in primitive ovens created
in the ashes of open fires. Ultimately, it was fired in special ovens, known as kilns.
Similarities:
1-> Still Terracotta has a religious tradition as it was in Indus valley. The terracotta deities can be found in
almost all the Hindu households.
2-> Terracotta find its roots in different ancient civilisations when it was used for cooking, building,
ornamentation, recreation, currency and trade in different ways. The methods of firing are similar even
now, creating an enduring bond from the ancient to the current potters.
21. Write a note on the distinguishing features of Buddhist Viharas, Stupas and Chaityas. Also explain
the significance of each of these architectural features. (200 Words)
NCERT, Class XI, Introduction to Indian Art, Chapter 3
Answer:
Viharas, Chaityas and Stupas were all architectural features which formed part of the Buddhist monastic
traditions starting in the 3rd century BC. The following are distinguishing features of each of these features
and their significance:
(1) STUPAS - These were dome shaped structures which were constructed over the relics of Buddha and
revered Buddhist monks. In the beginning the structure was relatively simple and made out of bricks and
mud. It was in the subsequent centuries that stupa construction became grand. The later stupas were
characterised by the addition of gateways with torans and panels depicting the Jatakas and various
important events from the life of Buddha, the pradakshinapatha (circumambulatory path) and the harmika
on the top. Important stupas are located at Bharhut, Sanchi, Sarnath and Nagarjunakonda.
(2) VIHARAS - The Viharas were monasteries where monks resided. It was usually structured in the form of
a rectangular hall with small cells on two of the sides with a circular chamber at the end which usually
housed the image/representation of Buddha. The Viharas could be structural or even rock cut. Eventually,
some of the most important Viharas took the shape of universities like Nalanda and Taxila.
(3) CHAITYAS - These refer to the prayer halls which were used by monks to perform religious works and
meditate. These were rectangular shaped halls consisting of many pillars and often enclosed a stupa.

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22. Write a note on the salient features of Mathura, Gandhara and Sarnath schools of art and their
depiction of Buddha. (200 Words)
NCERT, Class XI, Introduction to Indian Art, Chapter 4
Answer:
GANDHARA SCHOOL:
The Gandhara School developed in the north-western region of the Indian sub-continent. The region came
under the political influence of a variety of kingdoms - Greek, Mauryan, Parthian, Kushan, Synthian and this
resulted in the emergence of a mixed school of art which borrowed from various traditions. This school
contributed to development of Buddha's image which was usually carved out of grey slate stone and was
characterised by Hellenistic features. These include - wavy hair in a top knot, sometimes a moustache on
the face, urna between the eyebrows, garment with thick pleats usually covering both shoulders styled like
a roman toga, plain halo behind the head and muscular formation of the body. The expression of calmness
in the centre of attraction.
MATHURA SCHOOL:
This school developed in the region around Mathura, UP. The tradition of this school extended to not limit
to the images of Buddha alone for it also included images of the Hindu pantheon of gods. Unlike the
Gandhara School, this school was purely indigenous in its origins and reached its zenith under the rule of
the Kushans. The image of the Buddha was usually carved out of sandstone and was characterised by - curly
hair, roundness of flesh, transparent drapery with visible folds and a profusely decorated halo behind the
head.
SARNATH SCHOOL:
This school developed near Sarnath in Bihar. The images of this tradition are characterised by plain,
transparent drapery which covers both shoulders and a halo with little ornamentation.

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Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century
until the present-significant events, personalities, issues
1. The Revolt of the sepoys was accompanied by a rebellion of the civil population, particularly in the
North Western Provinces and Oudh, the two areas from which the sepoys of the Bengal army were
recruited. Comment on the reasons which prompted civil population to rebel during the 1857 Revolt.
(200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Indias Struggle for Independence, Chapter 1
Answer:
The revolt of 1857 which was initiated by sepoys, later also was accompanied by civil population. Though
the sepoys has their own reasons like differentiation among Indian and British soldiers, chewing of gun
parts before firing etc., the civil population has their own reasons1. Peasants and farmers- Most of the sepoys were from rural area. Thus the oppressive on them had a
direct impact on their relatives in villages. In fact, it is said that sepoys in British India were "peasants in
uniform"
2. Land taxation- the land revenues was increased manifold by zamindars which was tough to pay by
peasants. This high taxation, many a times even resulted in loss of land to farmers. Thus the farmers
revolted to reduce the high taxation.
3. Loyalty towards Oudh king- The Oudh king was removed by Britishers, which angered the local
population. They revolted to restore the kingship of Oudh.
4. Indigo planters- Britishers forced the local peasants to plant indigo. They revolted against this practise.
The revolt of 1857 was not fought on united reasons. Different parts of the country have their own reasons
to revolt. But the involvement of civil population along with sepoys added fire to the revolt.

2. Critically examine how did British colonialism affect tribal way of life and their relationship with the
forests in the nineteenth century. How did tribals react to this and with what consequences? Examine.
(200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Indias Struggle for Independence, Chapter 2
Answer:
At the time British advent in India was having a thick forest cover and mostly inhabited by the tribals who in
their own way had an association of harmonious sustenance with nature. But with the increase of the
British commercial interests given the vast diversity of crops and minerals in India, they have started cutting
down forests and thus came in conflict with tribals.
They were made to pay land revenue and often debarred from their lands, they were not allowed to
practice jute cultivation, forced to beg and the missionary influence who tried to convert them to and
persuade them to leave their centuries old traditions.

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This has evoked popular discontent in the tribal and several tribal uprisings such as Santhal, Munda, Gonds,
Lushai, Bhil, Kols etc. have erupted which waged all out struggles against the Britishers to safeguard their
lands and people. Although they fought valiantly with great leaders such as Birsa Munda, Sido and Kanhu
but given the military and modern artillery of the Britishers, they were not able to face them for long and
eventually faced catastrophic repressions amounting to pogroms.
Last but not the least they have shown the way to the much educated and modern Indians to fight and
assert for their rights.
3. The most militant and widespread of the peasant movements was the Indigo Revolt of 1859-60. Did it
succeed in its objectives? If so, how? Examine. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Indias Struggle for Independence, Chapter 3
Answer:
The Indigo revolt of 1859-60 was indeed the most militant and widespread peasant movements. The policy
of the British in which ryots were forced to grow Indigo which made their land infertile was a major cause
of the uprising. The ryot was even cheated and enforcement of fraudulent contracts crushed him
completely. It succeeded because of
- Mass and collective non-cooperation from the rebellious ryots, like refusal to pay enhanced revenue and
mass social boycott.
- The united resistance was very powerful and the planters were forced to shut down factories.
- The revolt had immense cooperation, organized and a disciplined effort.
- Complete Hindu Muslim unity was one of the major factors.
- The leadership was strong which were accompanied by well off ryots, moneylenders and ex-employees of
planters
- The Bengal intelligentsia played an important role by organizing a powerful campaign in support by using
Press as the tool. It had a deep impact on the emerging nationalist intellectuals.
_ Missionaries extended active support to the revolt.
Overall it was a success and ultimately government notified that ryots could not be compelled to grow
Indigo and planters closed all the factories. It was a brave and intelligent example for the future
generations.

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The Freedom Struggle its various stages and important contributors or

contributions from different parts of the country
1. Critically examine various theories put forward to explain the formation of the Indian National
Congress in 1885. Do you think nature of its birth affected its role in Indias struggle for independence?
Also, Comment. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapters - 4 and 5
Answer:
[1]
There is wide spread belief of safety valve theory behind the origin of Indian national congress i.e. Britishers
wanted to pacify the raising discontent among Indian masses through INC, as it was founded by ex-civil
servant of British govt A O Hume. But the formation of INC is not a sudden incident, since 1860s many
regional associations where active in India like Poona sarvajanik Sabha, India association, Madras Mahajan
Sabha, Bombay Presidency Association etc.
Great leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, Pherojshah Mehta, and W.C.Bannerji etc. wanted an All India political
representation to give a proper shape to the movement and to mobilize the whole country against
oppressive rule of British. It is true that in initial days the working of congress was slow in its approach not
radical, and it was through petitions. But to mobilize a diversified country and building nationalism was only
possible through constitutional procedures.
So, its nature of birth didnt affect its functioning or realising its objectives of promotion of national unity
and creation of common political platform. As some envisage it as INC was acting as a safety valve and
serving interests of imperialists, but it is equally true that Indians with the help of Britishers formed a
platform to fight against British in an organised manner or else Britishers would have completely
suppressed the movement as in case of 1857.
[2]
---The formation of INC in 1885 was not a singular event. It was backed by various previous movements,
which prompted the people to put up a united all India front against the British govt.
---One of the theory that is used to explain formation of INC is the safety valve theory, i.e. the British govt
(with the help of A O Hume) was behind its formation all along. The Britishers did not want another face off
with the Indian anguish, like during 1857. So they gave the Indians a tool with which they can vent their
frustration and the Britishers will also remain informed of the pulse of the masses.
---Another theory, which is more widely believed, falsifies this assumption of British involvement. According
to the other theory, various associations like East India Association, Indian Association, Bangbhasa Prasarika
Sabha, etc. served as the precursor for the formation of such All India Association, as the former were all
localised in practice.
---This nature of consensus between people from all over India, which led to INCs formation, helped a lot
in its onslaught against the British, as people all over the country were willing to work under its aegis.
---The thoughts of most of the Congress leaders were in sync with those of Gandhiji, which provided INC a
wider mass base.
---Although Gandhiji wanted it disbanded after 1947, but INC played a major role in building India as a
nation, in the early independence years.

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2. Although religious reformation was a major concern of these movements, none of them was
exclusively religious in character. In the light of the statement, examine the nature of socio-religious
movements that took place during the nineteenth century. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 6
Answer:
19th Century has seeds of transformation that today India is witnessing in socio-religious aspects. Many
Eminent personalities and social groups worked for the emancipation of masses from various irrational and
unscientific practices. The foremost among them would be Ram Mohan Roy through his work in Brahma
Samaj. The concept of monotheism, rationalism along with anti-idol worshipping, anti-Sati was the main
aspects of change and his deep insight into various languages helped him to bring out the essence of
religion in general. Eshwar Chandra Vidya Sagar, an educationist worked for the upliftment of women. He
worked for widow remarriages and education of women and establishing schools and teaching in colleges
all towards changing the mind-set of people despite opposition from orthodox sections.
Arya Samaj; Theosophists have worked for the religious reformation and abolishing irrational practices.
Though the main thrust for the transformation or reformation was religion behind all of the movements
but there were implicitly concepts of rational thinking, humanity, morality behind many of these
movements. Further due to the nature of society i.e., religion tightly integrated with the general beliefs and
practices of day to day life, there was this force of religion behind the work of movements in changing
thinking of people. It is not just religion but education, rationalism which was intertwined along with
religious aspects of the movements and the beginning of transformation of India was set in a perfect
platform with religion as one of the pillars.
3. An attempt to reinvigorate traditional institutions and to realize the potential of traditional culture
developed during the nineteenth century India. Why did this happen and with what result? Examine.
(200 Words)
Bipan Chandra Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 6
Answer:
As culture was deeply seated in the lives of Indians it became the basis for the most expressed form of
discontent against colonial rule. The intrusion of Colonial culture and ideology was rejected by the Indians
as they thought it was an attack on their long cherished practices and believes. The colonial culture was
progressive but not retrogressive as it was in pre-colonial times.
The two important aspects of revival of cultural value were:
1) Creation of alternate cultural-Ideological system
2) Regeneration of Traditional institutions
Activities: This was done by encouraging use of vernacular languages, regeneration of Indian arts and
literature, emphasis on Indian food and dress, technological knowledge of pre-colonial rule was to be
enhanced and put in practice, etc.

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Movements: This was supported by movements like activities of Tattvabodhini Sabha found by
Debendranath Tagore, resentment against Lexi Loci Act, against the inheritance of ancestral property right
to ones who convert from Hindu to Christianity.
The cultural and ideological revival was supposed to be more progressive in order to support the national
struggle. But some aspects of culture due to their historical significance cant be revived and were
retrogressive. This affected the political struggle which was progressive. But overall Indians managed to
modernize the cultural system without westernising it which supported the cause of political struggle in a
big way.
4. Which names stand out among the large number of Indians who initiated and carried out the
economic analysis of British rule during the years 1870-1905? Analyse how they interpreted colonialism
and what impact their analyses had on Indias national movement. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 7
Answer:
---Initially, Indians intellectuals looked upon British Raj with a positive attitude, with the hope that the
highly developed nation of that time, will also help in the advancement of India.
---But gradually, such hopes began to fade away with the discriminatory export-import policies of the
Britishers, which deprived many Indian workers from their ancestral livelihood, and the economy of the
nation began to crumble.
---Dadabhai Naoroji was the first person to look through the plans of the Raj. He wrote the book Poverty
and Unbritish Rule in India. In this, he exposed the economic policies of the govt, which were detrimental
to the countrymen, in the form of the Drain theory.
---Another person, R C Dutt, published the book Economic History of India, in which he wrote about the
entire economic system of the nation under Britishers, since the Battle of Plassey (1757).
---Others like, G Subramaniyam Iyer and Gopal Krishna Gokhale, along with many others, worked together
to analyse every aspect of the nations economy under the colonial rule.
---The result of all these analyses was that, all the thinkers began to interpret colonialism as the drain of
nations wealth, to fill the coffers of the foreign rulers. They understood that the imperialism was being
sustained by subordinating Indias economy to Britains economy.
---Due to these revelations, this period served as the seed time of the national struggle, where the people
began to see the real face of the colonial masters. This prepared the base for the more vigorous
movements that were to come in the future.
5. Critically examine how did the Press started by prominent Indians both in English and vernacular
languages influence the freedom struggle. Also examine how the British reacted to this medium of
national awakening. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 8
Answer:
[1]
From the beginning of the 19th century, politically conscious Indians had been attracted to modem civil
rights, especially the freedom of the Press, Considering it as the chief instrument for carrying out education
and formation of nationalist ideology.

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This is how press helped the freedom struggle:

--Awakening the masses- Nearly all the major political controversies of the day were conducted through the
Press. Newspapers would reach the remote villages and would then be read by a reader to tens of others.
--Opposition to the government - Almost every act and every policy of the Government was subjected to
sharp criticism.
--Library culture - Libraries were opened and frequently used by the people as "reading" was the only way
to participate politically Indian people.
--Highlighting the freedom fighters - Press highlighted the ideologies and works of freedom fighters which
helped them to reach to all section of people.
--Helping INC - INC's resolutions and proceedings had to be propagated through newspapers.
Britishers soon realised the potential of press to ignite the agitation among Indians.
Section 124 A was already there against the journalists because of which they cannot criticize government
personnel directly.
Britishers arrested many Indian journalists and writers who opposed the government.
Vernacular press act provided for the confiscation of the printing press if the Government believed that it
was publishing seditious materials. The Government amended a new Section 153A to the penal code,
making it a criminal offence for anyone to attempt to bring into contempt the Government of India or to
create hatred among different classes.
Press was responsible for arousing, training, mobilizing people and consolidating nationalist public opinion.
The actions of Britishers against the freedom of press led to a nationwide protest and helped the freedom
struggle.
[2]
The first Indian newspaper the Bengal Gazette was established in 1780. Even during then, the company put
a lot of restrictions on the freedom of press in India in order to prevent words of their misdeeds from
reaching London.
During the early part of the nationalist struggle, many newspapers both in English and in vernacular
languages were established by prominent leaders. Some of them were
1- The Hindu and Swadesamitran by G.S .Aiyar
2- Kesari (Hindi) and Maharatta (English) by Bala Gangadhar Tilak
3-Voice of India by Dadabhai Naoroji
4- The bengalee under Surendranath Bannerjea.
These publications were not established as profit making ventures but were seen to be providing a national
service. These newspapers also reached the villages and rural areas where their articles and editorials
would be discussed widely by the people.
The British on their part enacted many draconian laws made to curb the freedom of the press like

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1- The section 12(a) of the IPC, which provided for deportation against anyone who causes disaffection
against the Government
2- The Vernacular press act 1878 to better control the vernacular press and repress seditious writing.
Such oppressive measures lead to nationwide protests and also to the participation of a large number of
people when the freedom movements began to take shape.
6. Legislative Councils in India had no real official power till 1920. Yet, work done in them by the
nationalists helped the growth of the national movement. Examine. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 9
Answer:
---Although the Indian councils Act of 1861 enlarged the executive councils, they had no real powers. The
Indian members were there only to express the views of the Indian masses, as the British feared another
1857 like situation, if Indians did not have a voice in the govt.
---In reality, these councils could not discuss the budget, could not ask questions on the actions of
administration or any important bill.
---But the platform of such councils, designed only to appease the masses, was transformed into a stage of
agitation by personalities like Gopal Krishna Gokhale and Pherozeshah Mehta.
---They ruthlessly pointed out the shortcomings in the proposed bills, even though they could not ask any
questions. The censure of such Indian members, by the Britishers, helped in giving them more attention
and they became more motivated to rebuke the anti- Indian bills.
---Various bills, like the bill to take away ownership of land from the peasants and bill for Amendment of
Police Act, were opposed in the councils, by the Indian members, by pointing out there unnecessary nature.
Although the speeches were not able to force any amendments in the bills, but they helped in downgrading
the morale of the Britishers and made them realise that the Indians could not be emasculated easily.
---Such moves took the national struggle to the chambers of the British govt and helped in encouraging
more people to become political aware and advance the intellectual drive in the Indian masses.
---After GK Gokhale and Pherozeshah Mehta, this exercise was taken up by BG Tilak, who gave a new
direction to the freedom struggle post 1905.
7. An important aspect of the Swadeshi Movement was the great emphasis given to self-reliance or
Atmasakti as a necessary part of the struggle against the Government. What was the nature of
Atmasakti and how successful was it in its objective during the movement? Examine. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 10
Answer:
Greater emphasis on self-reliance or Atmasakti is one of the few important methods of struggle against the
government during Swadeshi Movement. Self-reliance in various fields implied
the re-assertion of national dignity and self-respect.
Nature of Self-Reliance work:
Social and economic regeneration of the villages:

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-As part of social regeneration, campaign against evils such as caste oppression, dowry system early
marriage and consumption of alcohol etc.
-Effort to setup Swadeshi or indigenous enterprise.
Ex: Acharya P.C. Rays Bengal chemical factory.
Swadeshi Education:
-One of the major works is promoting Swadeshi education.
National council of Education was setup to intensify these efforts. Primary education in vernacular language
was encouraged
and for technical education Bengal technical institute was established
How far it is successful?
Atmasakti could instil confidence among the Indians by undermining their perception of inferiority about
their own culture and superiority of white man. Atmasakti helped in expanding the base of Swadeshi
movement by bringing many sections who were hitherto untouched under its fold.
But the split of congress, exile of extremist leaders and lack of effective organization caused a severe blow
to the movement. The movement slowly declined by time. However, the new ideas, methods of mass
mobilization and the spirit of movement served as an inspiration for the upcoming successful national
movement.
8. It is analysed that by 1907, the Moderate nationalists had exhausted their historical role in Indias
struggle against colonialism. Examine why did moderates fail and with what consequences. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 11
Answer:
By 1907 there emerged a clear ridge between moderates and extremists that ultimately led to split in
congress in its Surat session.
Reasons for the failure of moderates1. Pray, petition and protest type of politics could not turn to be effective.
2. Political awareness (including about drain theory) had been on rise in people
3. Bengal was divided against the will and wish of people.
4. Vandemataram movement, irrespective of its intensity turned to be deaf ears.
5. People like Savarkar brothers and Chapekar brothers started advocating extremism.
6. Moderates remained distant from masses hence their mass appeal remained ineffective.
7. Emergence of leaders like Tilak and Ras Bihari Ghosh in congress led to new kind of environment that is
more favourable to the extremists.
8. Youth element in Vandemataram movement paves way for extremism.
Consequences1. Turmoil with in congress was witnessed since 1906 onwards.
2. Swaraj demand was passed in line of demands of extremists.
3. Congress was split in 1907's Surat session.
4. Moderates moved distant away from active politics due to various reasons.
5. Exploiting the situation the British government arrested extremist elements like Tilak.

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6. Congress turned to be ineffective and remained as it was till 1916's Lucknow session.
7. This political vacuum led to emergence of nationalist terrorism.
Even if the moderates moved away from mainstream politics the flames that they had ignited by then, led
to a new kind of environment that facilitated continuance of national movement.
9. Do you think the Ghadarite movement was a failure considering they could not fulfil the objectives of
their movement? Critically comment. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 12
Answer:
Success or failure of a movement will not always measured by its achievement or by its objectives .But by
the deepening of nationalist consciousness , testing new strategies, secularism , egalitarianism and time
bound executions of activities had contributed their share to freedom struggle which motivated further
struggles which took place.
Some of the happenings in the movement :
1) Ghadar , word itself is very clear without any doubts in heads of people that meant " Revolt" and
published as a weekly paper for free circulation which consists of Chittha ( 14 points) describing the
harmful effects of British rule and even ended with the solutions to ignite the struggle.
2) Movement shows its secular nature in every aspect by issuing its first copy in Urdu, adopted bande
mataram as rallying slogan in movement (though Sikh community higher in movement), Acceptance of Ras
Bihari Bose as leader.
3) Independent India, objective of Ghadar has been seen in each and every movement by them and
exposing struggle to different parts of world by Har Dayal is happened first time in history by giving
references to German , Mexican , etc.
4) Ghadarites further they themselves transformed into communists and peasant leaders helped India in
forwarding their struggle towards independence.
Because of underestimation of Britishs strength, lack of organizational structure , Inconsistency of
sustained leadership , Failure can be seen in hanging of Ghadarites who were sentenced and many were life
termed , but the success can be seen in every leader who struggled for independence and made it
happened.
10. The Home Rule League Movement, led by Lokamanya Tilak and Annie Besant, was less charged but
more effective compared to other movements of the time. Examine how and why. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 13
Answer:
HRL was started by Tilak and Annie Besant in 1916:
Tilak linked up the question of Swaraj with the demand for the formation of linguistic states and education
in vernacular. His demand for Home Rule was made on a wholly secular basis.
Besants league enlarges the sphere of her activities to include the building of a movement for Home Rule
on the lines of the Irish Home Rule Leagues.
The promotion of political education and discussion was promoted.
Two leagues avoided any friction by demarcating their area of activity.

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They established libraries containing material on national politics, organized classes for students on
politics, printed and circulated pamphlets, collected funds, organized social work, took part in local
government activities and arranged political meetings and lectures.
Moderate congressmen, joined the HRL agitation. The participation of moderates was hardly surprising,
since HRL was implementing only political propaganda and education for rise of conscious in people of
India.
HRL was most effective in fusing congress leaders, Lucknow Pact provided co-operation between Congress
and Muslim League, during this period there was negligible contentious issues left between leaders of any
political group fighting against British Imperialism.
British government was forced to decide a change in policy and adopt a conciliatory posture. The demand
for Home Rule or self-government could no longer be treated as seditious after Montagus Declaration.
So, HRL was the Indian response to the First World War in a less charged but a more effective way.
11. Critically comment why Gandhiji was able to do what he did in South Africa but no other Indians who
went before him. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence Chapter 14
Answer:
[1]
Gandhi went as Young barrister, in Durban South Africa. Like all Indians he also went through same
atrocities, experiences, but unlike Others He did various steps in order to help Indians and other oppressed
people living under White domination
His methods Vis a Vis to other Indians
~ Indians went before simply accepted the way of living like carrying ID cards, living in restricted unhygienic
area. However Gandhi showed that they were entitled for the same, but they will not get unless they ask
for it. Such methods were possible due to his personnel experiences like being thrown out of train, hotels
etc.
~Considering English as the Superior language Which Gandhi emphasised that it is just another language
and Used free classes, whomsoever wish to learn
~He was only person able to send petition, prayers, memorials etc. and communicate with Whites
~~ He cleared the air of White man's burden, Differences between the Civilised and uncivilised
Such Measures unleashed the unrealised potential among people which ended the White Domination. In
this way Gandhi differed from other Indians
[2]
Gandhi's new tactics, ripened situation, accumulated grief and apprehensions about new laws among the
people all together turned Gandhi's struggle into fruitful victory. Here is a small briefing.
1. Ripen situation and accumulated griefExcesses done by The British people on 'colonial and racial lines' gradually snowballed into social
combustion among local and immigrant communities.

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2. Indian immigrants grew in numbers

along with passage of time Indians grew in number due to ongoing migration from India to South Africa.
3. Precipitating conditionslike attempts to bring out "Indian residents registration act" sparkled the situation further. After math of
Boer's war added economic burden further.
4. New tactics of Gandhi
new tactics like nonviolence and Satyagraha confused the British due to their novelty. His ethical attitude
could attract unrelenting support from Indian community.
5. Relationship of Gandhi with the British- as never before by any other leader.
On one side Gandhi was fighting for the cause of rights of downtrodden but on other side he was helping
the British in Boer's war. This kind of expression conveyed them that India people are fighting for legitimate
rights but not against them.
Thus aptness in timing of the struggle made Gandhi's efforts more successful. But the leadership he
exhibited in this struggle remained exemplary to the whole world.
12. On his return from South Africa, for few years, Gandhiji did not join any political organisations or
movements of the day. Critically examine why. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence Chapter 14
Answer:
[1]
After his popular activism in South Africa, Gandhiji returned to India in 1915.By that time, he was a wellknown respected figure in India .He was warmly welcomed back in India and was flocked by masses
wherever he would go. However, Gandhiji didn't decide to join any political organisation or movement
during his initial years in India. This can be attributed to following reasons:
1. On Gokhales advice, and in keeping with his own style of never intervening in a situation without first
studying it with great care, Gandhiji decided that for the first year he would not take a public stand on any
political issue.
2. He spent most part of the year travelling around the country, understanding and analysing things, and in
organizing his ashram in Ahmedabad where he along with his devoted band of followers who had
accompanied him to India from South Africa, would lead a community life.
3. The next year, he continued to maintain his distance from political affairs, including the Home Rule
Movement that was gathering momentum at this time.
4. His political understanding did not match with any of the political currents that were active in India then.
His faith in Moderate methods was not long eroded, nor did he agree with the Home Rulers that the best
time to agitate for Home Rule was when the British were in difficulty because of the First World War
4.Further, he was deeply convinced that none of these methods of political struggle were really viable and
the only way of effective struggle was 'Satyagraha'.
About not joining any existing political organizations initially, Gandhiji said that he would only join an
organization to affect its policy and not be affected by it. In other words, he could only join an organization
or a movement that adopted non-violent Satyagraha as its method of struggle.

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[2]
On 9th January 1915, Gandhiji came to India and First World War was also in progress. He had great
popularity before his arrival in India that any Indian lawyer had shaken British Empire in South Africa. In
spite of having great experience, success and popularity he has not only kept himself from political party
alignment but also kept himself from any mass movement against British government. The reason for it can
be1] Gandhiji was not against British Empire, he was against the discriminatory law, injustice, and denial of
rights. At the same time, he supported British Empire in world war. He did not want to create further
trouble for government.
2] At the time of arrival, on the political level there were many views regarding the agitation. Moreover,
different political party like ML, split congress etc. have different approach [moderate, militancy, etc.] and
Gandhiji did not want any such differences in the country. Perhaps, joining any side might have led to
intolerance.
3] He clearly declared that I can only join those movement or political party which are non-violence in
nature.
4] He was also not FULLY aware of ground reality because India at that time lived in villages. Thus, he
needed time.
However, he did not remain political idle. Later on by realising the situation, in 1917 and early 1918, he was
involved in three significant struggles- in Champaran in Bihar, in Ahmedabad and in Kheda in Gujrat.
13. What were the main features of the Non-Cooperation movement? How different was it from earlier
forms of protests? Critically examine. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence Chapter 15
Answer:
Non-Cooperation movement was a direct outcome of Khilafat movement
Features:
1. It broadens the social base of national movement
2. The first mass movement in true sense
3. Never before British faced continental campaign against their rule
4. By courage, sacrifice, and fortitude in the face of adversity and repression, the different classes and
communities proved the desire for national freedom was an elemental urge common to all members of a
subject nation.
5. It transformed INC from a deliberative body into a genuine revolutionary organization, working for the
attainment of Swaraj.
6. The Movement also contributed to an awakening of the masses to economic problems. Even the
common villagers began to feel that Swaraj was the sovereign panacea for their ills and hardships.
7. Positive and negative programmes of movement were successful in their sphere.
Different from earlier movements:
1. It witnessed spread of nationalism to the remote corners of India
2. It also marked the height of Hindu-Muslim unity

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3. NCM popularized the Swarajaya cult

4. Womens participation was credible for first time
Thus, NCM witnessed wide-spread response and proved first movement in which the whole masses
actually participated, with exquisite communal harmony.
14. Withdrawal or a shift to a phase of non-confrontation is an inherent part of a strategy of political
action that is based on the masses. Justify this statement in the context of Indias struggle for
independence. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence Chapter 15
Answer:
It is widely accepted that any mass movement of confrontation or war of movement, in terms of Antonio
Gramsci, cannot be sustained longer. Period of non-confrontation is important for the following reasons
1. Give the opposition opportunity to respond
through reforms and keep the chances alive for the expansion of constitutional space to fight.
2. Use the time for reinvigorating the masses and strengthening their will to fight with increased fervour.
3. Accumulation of required resources to launch next phase of confrontation
Our freedom fighters mastered this art which is evident from the following cases.
1. Swaraj movement phase of confrontation-followed by a period of non-confrontation. Britishers offered
mino-marley reforms in 1909 as a policy of appeasement of protesters.
2. Then came home rule movement in 1916 which retreated to non-struggle phase after two years. Colonial
government brought forth Montague Chelmsford reforms in 1919 in return.
3. The youth force of home rule league again found non-cooperation movement platform in 1920 to
express their patriotism. By the second half of 1921 the enthusiasm of masses started declining. Sudden
withdrawal of movement by Gandhiji is also motivated by this reason
along with chauri chaura incident.
4. It was followed by a long period of non-confrontation
in which awareness among the masses and confidence on Indian legislative members(Pro-changers) were
proven .Then came Simon commission which was heavily opposed by Indians through confrontation and
civil disobedience movement.
15. Critically comment on the style and methods adopted by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to lead the Bardoli
Satyagraha. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence Chapter 16
Answer:
The Bombay Government arbitrarily enhanced the land revenue assessment by 22 percent. Gandhi chose
Bardoli for launching the protest movement. It consisted of very backward villages which could hardly
sustain such an increase.

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In Bardoli, Patel asked the people to decide relying on their own strength and not on their confidence in
him. After the conference passed a resolution, Patel and his trusted lieutenants like Mohanlal Pandya
unified them into a fighting force.
The peasants showed great courage in their no-rent campaign and bore severe hardships. Patel kept up the
discipline of the movement and the spirit of the villagers through all their trials.
Government stated to cease and auction lands if taxes not paid, the warning was ineffective. Finally, Patel
was arrested. But Magistrate didnt know on what ground he should be tried. His place was replaced by
Gandhi to lead, later government capitulated.
Bardoli Satyagraha showed Patel as an alternative to Gandhi in conducting mass movements.
Thus, Patel showed the ability to command the disciplined and complete obedience of 87,000 non-cooperating peasants at Bardoli. Finally, Gandhi said Vallabhbhai found his Vallabh (God) in Bardoli. The
title Sardar was awarded to Patel by Gandhi. Patel also earned the appellation of the Lenin of Bardoli.
16. Write a critical account of the role and contribution of the working class to the national movement
for Independence. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 17
Answer:
The Indian Working class had to face two antagonistic forces an imperialistic political rule and economic
exploitation at the hands of both foreign and native capitalist classes. These circumstances led working
class movements become intertwined with the political struggle for national emancipation.
Early Stage:
1. Saripada Banerjee (Workingmens club) - 1870
2. Shorabjee Shapoorji (Bombay Legislative Council) - 1878
3. N.M. Lokhandey (Deen Bandhu, and Mills Association 1880
In 1899, First Great Railways strike took place with widespread support.
During Swadeshi Upsurge, the biggest strike over the imprisonment of Tilak in 1908 was organized by
Bombay workers.
During WW1 and later: Setting up of COMINTERN and ILO lent a new dimension to the working class
movement. AITUC founded, Lala Lajpat Rai was the first to link capitalism with imperialism.
Late 1920s: AITUC divided into two groups, there was a 6-month long Strike in Bombay Textile Mill.
Alarmed by too many strikes, Government resorted to Legislative restrictions like Public Safety Ordinance
and Trade Disputes Act in 1929.
After 1937:
AITUC supported INC candidates in elections. Kanpur strike conducted, which resulted in formation of
Kanpur labour enquiry committee headed by Rajendra Prasad.
Naval mutiny and Strikes by posts, railways, etc. all over India took place in 1947; this strike was final
blow to British masters.

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Thus, from 1870s till independence working class movements played vital role in national movements by
supporting INC and others parties against British imperialism.
17. Many nationalists began to apply the newly discovered technique of non-violent Satyagraha and
mobilization of public opinion to issues which affected the internal structure of Indian society.
Evaluate the nature and success of such movements. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 18
Answer:
The nationalists began to apply the newly discovered technique of non-violent Satyagraha and mobilization
of public opinion to issues which affected the internal structure of Indian society. Two main movements
which reflected this changed strategy have been listed below.
1. Akali Movement: Nature and success
(a) Nature:
1.The movement was launched with objective of freeing the Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) from the control of
ignorant and corrupt mahants (priests).
2. The corrupt mahants began to treat the offerings and other income of the Gurdwaras as their personal
income. Some control over the Gurdwaras was exercised by Government-nominated managers and
custodians, who often collaborated with mahants.
(b)Success:
1. Legislation which was passed in July 1925 and which handed over control over all the Punjab Gurdwaras
to an elected body of Sikhs which also came to be called the SGPC.
2. Apart from its own achievement, the Akali Movement made a massive contribution to the political
development of Punjab. It awakened the Punjab peasantry.
2. Temple Entry Movement in Kerala: Nature and success:
Nature:
1. Launched with a primary aim of the eradication of untouchability.
2. Aimed at promoting educational and social upliftment of the Harijans and to open Hindu temples and all
public roads to the avarnas or Harijans.
Success:
1.Its organizers succeeded in building the broadest possible unity, imparting mass education, and
mobilizing the people on a very wide scale on the question of untouchability.
2. In November 1936, the Maharaja of Travancore issued a proclamation throwing open all Governmentcontrolled temples to all Hindus irrespective of caste. Madras followed suit in 1938 along with other
provinces. It lacked a strategy for ending the caste system itself.
3. The strength of the national movement in this respect was to find expression in the Constitution of
independent India which abolished caste inequality, outlawed
untouchability and guaranteed social equality to all citizens irrespective of their caste

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18. The years 1922-27 were a period of contradictory developments during which Gandhiji wrote: My
only hope therefore lies in prayer and answer to prayer. Examine these contradictory developments and
the effect they had on the national movement. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 19
Answer:
The period between 1922 and 1927 experienced both positive and negative results with respect to Indian
national movement. At this time, Gandhiji, who was disappointed with these negative developments, had
to count only on prayers in the situation of
grim reality.
Positive developments:
Constructive work by no-changers, who were led by Vallabh
Bhai Patel, Rajendra Prasad and C. Rajagopalachari, in the form of promotion of indigenous industries at
village level, campaigning against untouchability, fostering Hindu-Muslim unity and building nationalist
consciousness amongst masses
Creative use of legislative councils by the Pro-changers
like C.R. Das and Moti Lal Nehru by exposing the lawlessness of laws like the hollowness in the MontagueChelmsford reforms of 1919
Effect:
1. The council work instilled confidence in Indian
masses about self-rule
2. Constructive work brought large number of masses
came under the fold of upcoming national movements in the form of anti-Simon commission protests and
civil disobedience movement
Negative developments:
Factionalism: causing animosity between different groups in the congress.
Corruption in the cadres of provincial wings of Congress
Occasional mudslinging incidents between the council work
oriented Pro-changers and constructive work oriented No-changers.
Effect:
1. The differences between groups reduced the pace
of national movement
2. It became difficult for the public to distinguish between the really concerned leaders and opportunists.
Hence it eroded the confidence of masses in nationalists though only for a short period
of time.

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19. During the national movement two separate strands of revolutionary terrorism developed one in
Punjab, U.P. and Bihar and the other in Bengal. Critically examine the similarities and differences
between these two strands of revolutionary terrorism. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 20
Answer:
Sudden withdrawal of Non-cooperation movement left the large numbers of youth in dismay. They did not
find less dramatic constructive work and council entry as attractive options. Hence they resorted to
revolutionary terrorism which can be broadly divided into Punjab, U.P and Bihar group and Bengal group.
Though their vision is same the methods adopted by them differed in few aspects.
Similarities:
1. Build the Cadres by Inspiring the youth through their armed action against colonial government.
2. Demoralize the colonial bureaucracy and Overthrow the colonial government by armed revolt.
3. Vision of socialist state in Independent India.
Differences:
1. Revolutionary terrorists in Punjab, U.P and Bengal resorted to individual heroic actions while those in
Bengal carried out their activities in groups.
For example, bomb attack on central assembly in Punjab is by the heroic actions of Bhagat Singh and
Bathukeswar Dutt while Chittagong armoury raid was carried out in group by Bengal wing under the
leadership of Surya Sen
2. Women participation was more in Bengal region especially under the leadership of Surya Sen while the
same cannot be said about Punjab, UP and Bihar. Ex: Pritilal Waddedar, Kalpana Joshi, Girls Students like
Suniti Chowdary, Shanti Ghosh and Vina Das
Though the revolutionary terrorism could not yield satisfying results, it inculcated a sense of sacrifice;
courage and determination in Indians get rid of colonial rule.
20. The Karachi resolution of 1931 was to remain in essence the basic political and economic
programme of the Indian National Congress in later years. Elaborate. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 22
Answer:
[1]
The Karachi session on 29th march, 1931 became memorable for its resolution on fundamental rights and
National economic programmer
The Congress from the beginning had fought for economic interest and civil as well as political rights of the
people so, the Karachi resolution guaranteed:* Basic civil rights
* Freedom of association
* Equality before law

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* Neutrality of state in regard to all religions.

* Election on the basis of universal adult franchise
* Better condition for workers including a living wage.
* Limited hours of work and protection of women workers
* Separate ownership and control of key industries, mines and means of transport.
* protection of cultural, language and script of minorities
These resolutions formed the basis of many political and economic programmer of the congress in later
years
Thus, through the Karachi resolution, congress got the most impressive agenda in hand and made this
agenda the basis of its political programmer for the next years to come.
On the basis of the Karachi resolution Fundamental rights were guaranteed and it outlined the plan for the
reconstruction of Indian society after independence and to furnish many aims and ideals for the
constitution of India and the social and economic policy if the Indian republic.
[2]
Karachi Session of INC was convened to give assent to Gandhi Irwin Pact that asked for withdrawal of Civil
Disobedience Movement in lieu of concessions given to masses involved in the movement. It espoused
certain principles which defined basic features of governance in India:
- Rights: to equality irrespective of caste, colour, sex, and creed; to freedom of speech and expression; to
religion without any favouritism by the govt
- Farmers: Lower rent, revenue; resolution of farm indebtedness; exemption of rent from uneconomic
landholdings
- Workers: Right to form unions, associations; improvement of working conditions; guarantee of minimum
living wages; protection of women workers
- Socialism: Govt control of industries, transport, mines
- Culture: Steps to preserve culture, languages, minorities.
These aims underlined the functioning of Congress ministries in 1937-39 periods when various farmerfriendly, labour-friendly legislation were enacted, which even with their limited impact, highlighted peoplefriendly intentions of INC.
Most of these principles also found place in Indian Constitution framed after independence
and guided govt functioning for betterment of masses.
[3]
Karachi session of INC reiterated demand for Swaraj and passed resolutions on Fundamental Rights and
National Economic Program, which first time stated what Swaraj will mean to masses. Resolution on
fundamental rights included:
[1] Free speech and press,
[2] Freedom to form associations, assemble and
[3]guaranteed equal legal rights to all, adult franchise ,compulsory primary education [4]Protection of
cultural heritage of minorities

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While resolution on National Economic Program included:

[1]Relief from agrarian indebtedness, reduction in rent and revenue
[2]Better conditions for work, living wages, limited hours work,
[3]Right to form trade unions [peasants and workers]
These policies became basic to political and economic programs of INC during coming years as exemplified
by:
[1]Under Provincial assembly election under GoI Act,1935 INC formed governments and done important
work towards ensuring civil liberties by removing ban on illegal organizations like Youth leagues, books,
journals, lifting press restrictions and newspapers, freeing political prisoners and revolutionaries, lifting ban
trade unions and took important agrarian reforms like legislations on land reforms, fee, arrears of rent ,land
tenures .debt in spite of resistance put by zamindars and lack of adequate powers.
[2]Same policy was continued during Interim government of 1946.
[3]During constitution drafting process clause of Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy
was which reflections of 1931 resolution were somewhat.
[3]Post independence INC formed government at centre headed by Nehru and took important measures of
agrarian reforms by abolition of Zamindary System, Tenancy reforms, reducing tax on peasants and first FYP
stressed on development of agriculture and improved administrative system which guaranteed civil and
political rights of citizens. During course of time several amendments to constitution were introduced to
guarantee the same.
Hence, resolutions of Karachi were important recommendations which later become policy of INC on
political and economic development.
21. Critically comment on the objective and success of Gandhijis Harijan campaign. Also examine the
impact it had on the National Movement. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 23
Answer:
Objectives:1) Gandhiji wanted the eradication of untouchability through the Harijan campaign.
2) He wanted the social, economic and cultural upliftment of the Harijans.
3) Gandhiji was of the view that the removal of untouchability through the Harijan campaign would result
in bringing all Indians together.
HARIJAN CAMPAIGN:Gandhiji was critical of the British policy of divide and rule through the communal award of 1932, that
guaranteed separate electorate for the depressed classes. So he went on a fast unto death in yarvada jail
and started the popular HARIJAN CAMPAIGN.
After his release from prison, he conducted intensive "Harijan tour" of the country and propagated the
removal of untouchability in all forms and practices. Gandhijis entire campaign was based on the grounds
of humanism and reasons.
Gandhiji's Harijan campaign included programme of internal reform by harijans.
-promotion of education
-cleanliness and hygiene
-giving up eating of beefs and giving up liquor.
The campaign increased the awakening among the Harijans.

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IMPACT ON NATIONAL MOVEMENT:1) The campaign carried the message of nationalism to Harijans.
2) The campaign led to increased participation of Harijans in the national movement as well as peasant
movement.
[Comments]
The question demands for "critically comment"
-Limitations like inter-dining and inter-marriage are not included as part of campaign need to be mentioned
-answer has no mention about success of Harijan campaign. Like opening of public spaces-schools, parks
and temples. How far it abolished untouchability?
22. Critically analyse the impact the Left had on the Indian society and polity during the freedom
struggle. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 24
Answer:
[1]
Karl Marx termed, 1857 revolt as not a military mutiny, but a national revolt.
M.N. Roy, Abani Mukherji, Rajni Palme Dutt, Sanjay Seth were some staunch leftist who linked freedom
struggle with communist Manifesto and fought against British Imperialism.
The Meerut Conspiracy Case of 1929 gave the communist Party (CPI) great propaganda opportunity. That
time party was working under Soviet communists Party, even during WW-2 till 1941.
In the trade Union field, the party could get a firm hold on the All India Trade Union Congress.
The Left in India has most of its life striven to appear more nationalist than the nationalists. At times the CPI
claimed leadership of the nationalist movement, as during the ultra-left periods from 1928 to 1935 and
immediately after WW-2, or saw the protection of the Soviet Union as the immediate priority, as after the
Nazi invasion of 1941.
Left linked the economic demands of the workers and peasants with the fight for independence.
Left movements feared British capitalism and Indian industries both, equally. Indian Business houses mostly
supported INC because of fear that left influence in some sections of Indian politics might convert India as
Communist nation after independence.
But whatever the peculiarities of the time, the Left in general has held to the position that India is an
oppressed nation and that the natural allies of the working class is the liberal or progressive sections of
the national bourgeoisie and that the indigenous capitalist state defended the interest of the entire
Indian nation against the depredation of imperialism.
[2]
Inspired by the success of Russian revolution many political leaders in India got interested in socialism and
communism. Prominent among them were Jawaharlal Nehru, MN Roy, Jaya Prakash Narayan etc. Some
formed associations like CSP and CPI.
Though there were differences in ideologies among the leftist organisations and with INC majority of leftists

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accepted INC as the main political organ of the national movement for achieving freedom. And decided to
work within INC to transform it into a socialist body.
POSITIVE IMPACTS on polity and society
>INC became increasingly tilted towards Left and connected with masses
>increased recruitment of masses into political bodies and national movement
>they worked towards solutions to problems of agriculture labour and industrial workers
>upper classes came to know about the problems of lower classes and there was upliftment of lower
classes
Some drawbacks were...
There were multiple organisations with slight differences in ideologies which sometimes posed threat to
unity of the movement especially during war time when CPI withdrew its support. There was lack of
consistency in their stand on various issues like support to INC and method of struggle i.e. nonviolence.
Their support to violent movement created problems to the working INC in councils.
Nevertheless their role was significant in imparting mass character to the freedom struggle and bringing
awareness of political leadership on problems of masses.
23. Write a critical note on the contribution of the Congress Socialist Party (CSP) to Indias freedom
struggle. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 24
Answer:
[1]
The success of Russian revolution had sown the seeds the socialism into minds of Indians during the 1920's
and 1930s. There was lot of young population that was dissatisfied with the withdrawal of non-cooperation
movement and also with the swarajists methods of political actions. It was during this time that most of this
section of Indians came under the influence of Marxist ideals of socialism. The Phillip to these ideologies
given by its advocates like Bhagat Singh, Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhash Chandra Bose.
It was during 1934 that under the leadership of Jay Prakash Narayan and Acharya Narendra Dev that
Congress Socialist Party was formed to give voice to the issue of peasants and workers. It mostly tried to
remain a part of the Congress and tried to influence its leadership with socialism rather than creating a
separate party.
It CSP built its roots in the peasants and farming sections by associating with the kissan sabhas. It had a
section of members supporting the radical armed struggle (JP Narayan) of peasants and also those who
supported for peaceful agitation (Acharya). They worked to bring working population and peasant
community into mainstream of freedom struggle. Arouse them to fight for their rights and fight for the
freedom. Its influence was clearly seen with even HSRA members choosing to join it. Their main
contribution came during the Quit India Movement where CSP members participated in huge numbers and
kept the movement alive in absence of main leaders. It provided underground network and secret radio to
keep activists connected. They also helped during the Hyderabad capture where they fought with Razkars.
But its main weakness was that it was inflexible in ideological aspects. There was also confusion among
leaders on ideas to follow, Fabian socialism, Marxism socialism and the Gandhian influenced socialism. It
also tried to understand the realities and play safe by not taking a hard stand against congress on freedom
struggle issue there by receiving criticism from socialists. Also its rivalry with CPI was another factor that
hindered its spread. Nevertheless it has its influence on the Indians and succeeded in embedding social

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ideas into leaders which is evident from the economic policies formed post-independence as well as during
the freedom struggle
[2]
In 1934, the Congress Socialist Party was formed within the Indian National Congress. The Congress
Socialist Party was formed due to the efforts of Acharya Narendra Dev, Jay Prakash Narayan and Dr Lohia.
This party mainly worked for the peasants.
The Congress Socialist Party advanced quickly in provinces. Particularly in Bihar and Andhra the Congress
Socialists developed close connection with the peasantry. The Congress Socialists also associated
themselves with the emerging Kisan Sabha Movement. The Congress Socialists built up strong radical
movement amongst the peasants and workers.
During the Quit India Movement of 1942 the leaderless mass of people were secretly led
by the Congress Socialists. At that time the Congress Socialists also set up a secret radio station that went
by the name Congress Radio.
But the members of the party usually rejected the anti-rational mysticism of Mahatma Gandhi. The party
included supporters of armed Indian freedom struggles as well as other members who were followers of
ahimsa or nonviolent resistance.
The issues like the agricultural labourers, socialist economy, equitable distribution of wealth,
communization of means of production became important issue even before independence of India.
24. Critically discuss the contribution and legacy of Bhagat Singh to Indias freedom struggle. (200 Words)
The Hindu (A Grave Blunder)
Answer:
Bhagat Singh, whose name alone inspires the youth of the nation, was born and brought up in Punjab.
Horrified at Jallianwala Bagh tragedy, he jumped into freedom struggle.
1. He was a voracious reader and influenced with socialist ideas.
2. He formed Naujavan Sabha to promoter unity and opposes communalism.
3. His uncle Swarn Singh was arrested in Kakori Conspiracy and Hindustan Republican Association was in
tatters. At this point, cam Bhagat Singh and revitalised their organisation into Hindustan Socialist
Republican Association.
4. He advocated for armed revolt against British as we was already disillusioned with Gandhian idea of
Satyagraha and sudden withdrawal of Non-Cooperation Movement.
5. To avenge the death of Lala Lajpat Rai, he and Azad, etc. killed Saunders.
6. He and Bathukeswar Dutt threw harmless bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly and with pamphlets
shouted anti-imperial slogans.
7. Arrested and lodged in jail, he and his colleagues fasted for more than 110 days for their rights as
political prisoners.
8. Ultimately, on 23/03/1931 he was hanged in Lahore, cremated at Hussainiwala. Today his image
decorates our Parliament
His major contribution lay in
A. Rallying, awakening and inspiring youth behind his idea of uprooting British by not necessarily peaceful
means. He courted arrest so as to use court as a platform for propaganda.

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B. Promoting unity of India and opposing Communalism even if it came from Lala Lajpat Rai himself.
C. Advocated socialism and Marxian value. He even had a very mature understanding and plans for future
India. Socialism was indeed adopted post -Independence.
However due to his violent ways, may be people today don't remember him as much as other leaders like
Gandhiji. Clearly the ideology of the two was not without conflicts. Also there was some controversy
regarding Gandhi-Irwin pact over Bhagat Singh. But undoubtedly his martyrdom will inspire us all forever.
25. Critically analyse the response of Jawaharlal Nehru to Gandhijis advocacy of constructive work as
means to mobilise and consolidate the support of millions in the next phase of mass struggle post Civil
Disobedience movement. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Indias Struggle for Independence, Chapter 25
Answer:
After the withdrawal of Civil Disobedience Movement, there was a debate about the strategy to be
adopted during the phase of non-mass struggle.
Gandhiji emphasized on the constructive work in the villages. But, Nehru called for a leftist alternative as
against the anti-imperialist programmer of Gandhiji.
According to Nehru, the withdrawal of CDM and the recourse to constructive programmer represented a
'spiritual defeat' and a surrender of ideals. According to him it was a retreat from the revolutionary to the
reformist mentality and it was like going back to the pre-1919 moderate phase
According to Nehru, congress was preferring to break some people's heart rather touch others pockets and
to him, pockets are more valuable than hearts and brains and human justice and dignity.
Nehru called for a need to inculcate a new socialist or Marxist ideology. According to him, National
movement had now reached a stage where there needs to be permanent confrontation and conflict with
imperialism till it was overthrown. He accepted that struggle has to go through ups and down but there
should not be a stage of compromise with the colonial framework. So, he called for a permanent waging of
mass struggle till victory was won.
26. Critically examine how Congress governments did justice to their partys strategy that in the nonmass struggle phases of the national movement, mass political activity and popular mobilization were to
continue, though within the four-walls of legality during mid-1930s. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Indias Struggle for Independence, Chapter 26
Answer:
After assuming office under the act of 1935, congress had to bring social reforms through the legislative
and administration in the provinces and at the same time carry on the struggle for independence and
prepare the people for the next phase of mass struggle.
Congress's strategy:1) Congress was able to give economic relief to the peasants and workers and succeeded in acquiring their
massive support by exploring the roots of their poverty in colonial structure and appealed them to lead
them in anti-imperialist struggle.
2) The agrarian policy of the congress ministry went a long way to promote the interest of peasantry. It
dealt with the question of tenancy rights, security of tenure and the problem of indebtness.
3) Congress ministries also adopted a pro-labour stance and their basic approach was to advance workers
interest while promoting industrial peace, through compulsory arbitration and creating goodwill between
labour and capital.

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4) Congress govt undertook certain other measures of social reforms and welfare like advancement of
untouchables/Harijans, no of scholarships and free ships for Harijan students were increased.
5) They paid a lot of attention to primary, technical and higher education and public health and sanitation.
Thus, congress coordinated together the two activities and kept in touch with the masses.
There was mass mobilization which took diverse forms.
e.g. - *organization of congress committees in villages
*setting up of congress police stations and panchayats.
*setting up of congress grievance committee
*mass literacy campaign.
Thus, there was mass political activity in addition to mass mobilization during the phase of non- mass
struggle of national movement
27. Discuss the contribution of Civil Disobedience Movement to the emergence of peasant movements
during 1930s. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Indias Struggle for Independence, Chapter 27
Answer:
Peasants movements during 1930s aroused due to two reasons:
1. The great depression that began to hit India
2. The new phase of mass struggle by INC in 1930.
By success of Bardoli Satyagraha, Peasants were emboldened and joined CDM is large numbers. In Andhra
for example, the political movement was soon enmeshed with the campaign against the settlement that
threatened and increase in land revenue. In UP no revenue movement soon turned to no rent, till GandhiIrwin Pact.
Peasant of Kheda and Surat of Gujarat refused to pay their taxes and went on jijarat to neighbouring
Baroda territory to escape government repression. In Bihar and Bengal, powerful movements were
launched against the hated Chowkidara Tax be villagers.
In Punjab, a no revenue campaign was accompanied by the emergence of Kisan Sabhas that demanded a
reduction in land revenue and water-rates and the scaling down of debts. Anti-Zamindari emerged in
Andhra.
The culmination of all- India Sabha in Lucknow in April 1936 was direct effect of CDM and mass
participation of peasant in it.
CDM was become only hope in 1930s when peasants were placed in precarious situation where they had
to continue to pay taxes, rents and debts at pre-depression rates while their incomes continued to spiral
steadily downward.
Thus, CDM, brought peasant and farmers together to contribute against British polices and increased
success of Civil Disobedience Movement.

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28. Critically analyse Gandhijis views on capitalism and his relationship with industrialists during
freedom struggle. (200 Words)
Business Standard (India's first corporate agent)
Answer:
Gandhiji knew the industrial would have detrimental effects on the Indian economy as we know our
contribution dipped from 20% of global trade to 2% due to Industrial revolution in UK.
Gandhiji believed in the concept of trusteeship. An industry would have a trusteeship council consisting of
owners of the company and would use profit from the empowerment of the society and poor.
He believed inclusive development could be achieved through encouraging small and medium scale
industries that provide job to many and help the rural poor in real way rather than producing goods on
mass scale with profit as a main intention.
The negative impact of industrialization like degradation of environment, impact on soil quality through
excessive use of fertilizers was aware of.
He neither believed in socialistic model that made the local govt official supremo over the poor.
He actively supported trade union protest in case of Ahmedabad Textile Union protests.
With respect to industrialist it is seen that Gandhiji never liked the idea of JRD Tata, Kasturba and other
industrialist going to US and UK for studying the industrial model and heavily criticized their move.
He believed in self-sufficiency in terms of manufacturing/ industrial sectors.
29. How did the methods of struggle for independence in Princely States differ from that of rest of India?
Illustrate with suitable examples. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 28
Answer:
The struggle for independence in Princely States was different from the freedom struggle in British India in
the following respects:
1. The political situation and context in each of the princely states was quite different from the rest of
British India. Some states like Rajkot had a history of the ruler initiating reforms in administration and
supporting popular institutions for political empowerment of the people. While certain others like
Hyderabad had rulers who were more inclined to carve out a distinct ideological state and suppress popular
movements. So unique methods suited to the local contexts evolved in the Princely states. Some adopted
Satyagraha, while others turned to violent movements.
2. The degree of political awakening was different in British India and the Princely states due to limited Civil
liberties, lack of popular institutions and educational backwardness. Hence, the methods of struggle which
applied to the rest of India could not be suitably applied to Princely States with the same effect. Therefore,
the participation of Princely states in the mainstream national movement started only much later owing to
Khilafat and Non-Cooperation movements at first and then the Quit India movement which was the formal
introduction of the Princely States to the freedom struggle.

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3. The attitude of the Indian National Congress was one of non-intervention in the Princely states as stated
in the 1920 Nagpur resolution, further owing to increased Political awakening of the people this stance was
changed in the Tripuri session. So, there was non-uniformity in political activities in Princely states.
4. The chief organisations involved in the Freedom struggle in Princely states was the States People's
Conferences which was started in the mid-thirties which eventually grew into the All India States' People's
Conference under the leadership of Balwant Rai Mehta and G.R. Abhayankar.
5. Due to the anti-war stand of the INC during the Quit India movement and the pro-war stand of the
Communist Party, the ban on the CPI was lifted and they thus became important agents in the freedom
struggle in some of the states in the place of the INC in British India.
30. Critically examine the overall strategy of the Indian capitalist class, as a class, towards the national
movement. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 29
Answer:
[1]
National movement encompassed all classes of people including the capitalists some of whom were also
congressmen who suffered hardships like everyone else while some capitalists financially supported the
national movement.
The Indian capitalist class had its own notions of how the anti-imperialist struggle should
be waged. It was always in favour of not completely abandoning the constitutional path without
compromising on its needs.
Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), a national level body of trade with Indian
interests in mind was recognized by the British government as well
as the Indian public in general, as a body representing the Indian capitalist class.
FICCI refused to negotiate with the British Government, and certainly to make any final commitments, on
constitutional as well as economic issues, without the participation of the
congress or at least approval.
The capitalists were unwilling to support a prolonged all-out hostility to the government of the day as it
prevented the continuing of day-to-day business and threatened the very existence of the class. So they
used constitutional means as a forum for maintaining an effective
opposition fearing backlash from the colonial government which could severely affect the Indian economy
and the capitalist class.
While, on the one hand, they were afraid of protracted mass civil disobedience, on the other hand, they
clearly saw the utility, even necessity of civil disobedience in getting crucial concessions for their class and
the nation.
[2]
The Indian capitalist class emerged in 19th century and developed its positive attitude towards national
movement. Indian capitalist class was much concern about Drain of Wealth from India to Britain.

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British capitalism did not permit Indian enterprise to compete with it. Indian capitalism was therefore
weak. Indian cotton industries faced many challenges. However, Indian industrialists stood their ground
through their ingenuity and cost reductions.
The Swadeshi movement helped to give impetus to Indian textiles and popularized Indian made goods.
Being part of INC, movement was supported from capitalist by and large became successful.
They faced a problem in Rupee-Pound ratios which was arbitrarily fixed to their disadvantage. The
capitalist therefore supported INC and finance some of its programme and campaigns. They also needed
indigenous capital instead of foreign capital.
Indian industries understood that indigenous industrial development depended on the success of Indias
Freedom struggle. Leading industrialist in the steel, jute and coal industries besides the textiles magnates
by and large had good relations with the leaders of the freedom movement.
Bombay Plan, can be cited as an idea of capitalist to support state led industrialization. Thus, we can
observe that Capitalist strategy was to support INC and other peaceful entities to fight against Imperialism;
they provided funds and moral support to all sectors without any communal distinction.
31. How did leadership of the national movement balance its opposition to fascism and imperialism on
one hand, and its demand for independence and democracy on the other hand? Examine. (200 Words)
Bipan Chandra, Struggle for Indias Independence, Chapter 30
Answer:
The position of the INC was unenviable at the start of the 2nd world war. On one hand, the congress didn't
want to support the imperial forces that used the wealth of the colonies for their personal war, and on the
other, the rise of the fascist powers presented a never before encountered dilemma.
The congress couldn't support the stand of the fascists, as they were against the basic tennets of humanism
and were committed to the policy of violence. Gandhiji wrote letters to Hitler, advocating him to not to
commit the crimes he did. Gandhiji couldn't justify the ends if the means to it were so corrupted. According
to him if the means are corrupted, then they eventually would twist the ends as well.
Jawaharlal Nehru was a prominent socialist and a humanist. He believed in democracy and couldn't stand
for the fascist rule. The problem was in keeping this principled stand and supporting the imperial powers in
their war and still opposing the war effort. Subhash Chandra Bose wanted a free India at any cost and was
ready to support Hitler for that. Congress didnt' agree to this viewpoint.
In the end, congress didn't support the war effort or the fascists as both these ways were fraught with basic
moral flaws. Even though the Indian army was deployed in the war effort, the stance didn't change. The
trade union, communists joined the war effort and unwittingly hindered the freedom movement.

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History of the world will include events from 18th century such as
industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries,
colonisation, decolonisation, political philosophies like communism,
capitalism, socialism etc. - their forms and the effect on the society
1. It is said that Anti-Semitism is on the rise in different parts of the world. What do you understand by
Anti-Semitism? Critically examine its nature and causes for its rise in the modern world. (200 Words)
The New York Times (How to Fight Anti-Semitism)
Answer:
Simply saying anti-Semitism is hostility to or prejudice against Jews.
Anti-Semitism is not a mysterious disease. Anti-Semitism is the natural and understandable attitude of
people toward a minority with particularly towards loyalties that wields greatly disproportionate power for
its own interests, rather than for the common good.
Hostility toward Jews dates to ancient times, perhaps to the beginning of Jewish history. The rise of
Christianity greatly increased hatred of Jews. In the half-century since World War II, public anti-Semitism
has become much less frequent in the Western world.
Causes of modern Anti-Semitism:
Europe and in the former Soviet empire are struggling, mostly due to unsettled or chaotic economic and
social conditions, with movements opposing "foreigners" - including recent immigrants and traditional
enemies. These movements champion racial or national supremacy, and call for the type of charismatic,
authoritarian leader that historically persecuted Jews and other minorities.
Muslim Arab world and European culture are integrated to Anti-Semitism.
All the European nationalist movements which sprang up in the 19th and 20th centuries were more or less
anti-Semitic. But the outrages in Paris and Copenhagen have nothing to do with anti-Semitism.
The solutions to anti-Semitism are:
1. Israel must stop war -like activities in Gaza and around areas, to show world its humanitarian outlook
2. Arab World must stop funding anti-Israel or Anti-Semitism program and propaganda
3. Europe must re-look towards is policy of social integration.
4. Economic and social benefits must be reaching all sectors of minority in US and Europe.
Anti-Semitism is against Natural Rights of Human beings. It is not new and unique, but it must not have
place in modern society.

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2. It is said that many democracies around the world are taking Right turn i.e. embracing conservatism.
With suitable examples, critically analyse why and also examine its implications for the world. (200
Words)
Livemint (Democracies are taking a right turn)
Answer:
The 'Left versus Right' was more pronounced during Cold War era across many nations and with the
ideological war between nations taking meandering paths has come to a state where today world is more
inclined to Conservatism. The victories of right wing parties in Japan, India, and UK are a case at point.
Many reasons can be attributed to this.
1. The collapse of USSR has made the world to revisit socialism and the down turn of economies having its
impact even today. The mixed economy model is being proposed by the right wing which convinced the
people to opt for right.
2. Preference to the local and 'Nation first' attitude of the right wings like policy against immigrants in UK,
'India First' in India are reasons for people to vote for them.
3. The lack of adaptation of Left wing and ideas to propose in an era of liberalisation, globalisation,
privatisation. Left wing is primarily against this and their failure to reconcile with it is major reason for the
people to turn towards right.
4. The global crisis of 2008 also contributed to the rise in poverty, unemployment, failure of centre or left
govt policies in some countries and preference to right wing.
5. Anti-incumbency is also a factor adding to the recession resulted in inclination towards conservatism.
Implications of the rise of Right and more focus on their own countries that could create problems like less
focus on world common problems of terrorism, environmental change etc. Also the conflicts like WTO
tussle with India relating to food grains cap etc. could raise due to right wing conservatism. Along with
individual countries development, it is concern to LDCs, global issues, work towards peace that are needed
for the harmonious growth of the world.
3. South Asian democracies present a vivid example of the baleful consequences of dynastic rule.
Critically examine. (200 Words)
Frontline (Dynasty in democracy)
Answer:
South Asian democracies, mainly India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, though different somehow in
their workings, constitutions and local conditions share some common things and the harmful effects of
dynastic rule is one of them.
Indira Gandhi, Mujib ur Rahman, z a Bhutto, Bandaranaike are considered to be leaders who laid the path
of dynastic rules in respective countries and these south Asian nations still getting the ache from it. The
consequences are as follows1. The party or the government has lost its original ideology and good leadership due to the hereditary
successions.
2. This dynastic rule has also led to the feudal tradition in the country in which the bureaucrats too will and

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are always ready to praise the ruling regime and thus, governmental structure lost its wisdom.
3. This also impacted the democratic govt as though the elections are held regularly but the representatives
of the people follow the path as suggested by their dynastic leader.
4. The judiciary also have the commitment for such dynastic classes which impede in fair and transparent
judgments.
5. It also encourages corruption and the communalism also gets boost from it.
6. This dynastic regime lowers the growth and development of the nation.
Though, good leaders can bear in a family and could govern the country successively but making it like the
dynastic succession without any quality and capability in person ultimately harm the nation and its wisdom
in long run.
4. How did European Painting influence Indian Painting in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries?
Examine. (150 Words)
The Hindu (Rich tones of 18th century India)
Reference (Culture and Customs of India)
Answer:
Influence of European paintings was started during the period of Akbar when he encouraged European,
Chinese and south-east paintings. However European paintings influenced grossly during the colonial
period i.e. second half of 18th century and 19th century. e.g.1] In goa, hybrid style of paintings called ' company art' which included both Indian and British. Nawab of
Arcot had painter European painter Fransis for his European painting collections.
2] Oil paintings, water colour techniques, use of paper and ivory, etc. were now inserted in painting field.
3] Europe Romantic Movement also influenced the Indian painting by bringing picturesque such as
evocative landscape.
4] 'Kali ghat paintings' in Calcutta [now Kolkata] featured lively, brightly coloured mythological and secular
subject. One popular feature was depicting bureaucratic red tapism and infamous work.
5] Western colleges of art were established at Chennai [1850], Calcutta [1854], Mumbai [1857].most
famous painter from India was raja Ravi Varma who got international recognition in second half of
nineteenth century.
However, elite artist engrossed to nationalism in late nineteenth-century. E.g. Tagore brothers: Abanindra
Nath and Rabindra Nath Tagore. His ' Bharat Mata' painting becomes iconic for nationalists.

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Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India

1. A society that believes that every woman, irrespective of her moral or sexual choices, has the right to
her own body, must also believes that a person, irrespective of the crime he is accused of, has the right
to the due process of law. In the light of recent incidences where mobs took law in their hands, critically
comment on the statement. (200 Words)
The Hindu (Vigilantism in Dimapur)
Answer:
The constitution of India provides us the right to equality. Thats means like every man, a women has equal
right and it she who has the right to her own body irrespective of her morality or sexual choice.
In the recent incidents in Nagaland where we saw that an angry mob broke out into central jail and lynched
and naked the accused in road where he died of injuries. In democratic set up and a society like ours
primarily it the law which to take justice. No one has the right to take law in their own hands.
When the Nirbhaya incident took place almost every TV channels were talking about why the culprits not
hanged? Why the culprits not given death penalty? So it is eminent from the fact that people in large in our
society are not legally literate. They do not understand criminology. When we talk about hang this man that
means we are talking about revenge. But the Law doesnt believe in taking revenge. The whole law is so
built that we should either
create prevention or we create a deterrent.
There for by lynching somebody we are not helping the victim or cause. The aim should not be finishing
criminal but it should be crime.
2. With suitable examples, critically comment on the role of popular cinema and media in influencing
opinion and perception of common man about women in India. (200 Words)
The Hindu (Much ado about nothing)
The Hindu (Whose culture is it?)
The Hindu (Creeping danger of intolerance)
Answer:
Cinemapositive impact- Certain movies with women as lead, are improving confidence among women. Recent
movie "Mary Kom" is an example for that. But the number of such movies is limited.
Negative- women are shown as glamour dolls. Sexy comments and so called item songs are again a bit
problematic as they derogate the dignity of women. Scenes like rape are also not uncommon in our movies.
Mediapositive impact- media creates awareness with regards to women rights. It reports about violations of such
things. It also surfaces laydowns in this regard. And, creates a platform for women-oriented debates as
well.

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Negative impact- on the way to make its profits media sensationalize issues like rape and other things.
Some entertainment channels broadcast unnecessary rumours about intimate relations. Recent issue like
"Deepika Padukone dress furore" is an example for that.
Thus both media and cinema are having a mixed impact and influence on the minds of people. Both media
and cinema should be more responsible while they are dealing with women issues. After all, women are
still vulnerable in our society.
3. Our village culture and values are intrinsically linked to a control of land and agriculture. It is said that
the new Land Ordinance Bill would positively unsettle our village economy and culture. In this regard,
critically analyse what type of modernity is needed to uproot economic and social inequality in Indian
villages. (200 Words)
The Hindu (Shaking up our village culture)
Answer:
About 70% of Indian population lives in villages. After 67 years of independence, the social and economic
inequality is still seen in the villages.
In Indian villages land is equivalent to power, Land makes certain castes kingly in rural communities. The
family with greater land can expect greater dowry.
Despite of the various policies taken by the government to get rid of land inequality there is still a huge
disparity in the amount of land owned by different castes in villages (80% of Dalits being landless). Seeing
the importance of land and the disparity, land ordinance bill can positively unsettle the village community
and culture by taking the land from the villagers, and redistributing it in the form of development, provide
jobs, infrastructure, and at the same time help country's economy. Here however the govt should be very
cautious in taking away the land as in the past it has negatively affected many communities who even
ended up using extremism to make their voices reach to the govt.
Other measures taken by the government to uproot the economic and social inequality are to lower the
illiteracy, education being necessary to end caste discrimination. Policies like MNREGA for employment,
MUDRA and PMJDY for financial inclusion, proper health care, sanitation, skill development facilities. "Beti
Padhao Beti Bachao"; for education and empowerment of girls. NGOs are also important to give voice to
their grievances.
4. Open defecation in Bangladesh is almost non existent compared to India where it is widespread.
Critically examine social, economic and cultural reasons behind this practice in India and what should be
governments approach towards eliminating this practice. (200 Words)
Business Standard (Simply building latrines isn't going to end open defecation even by 2039)
Answer:
Ending open defecation is a major challenge in India. Owing to a number of reasons behind the practice of
defecation leads to a number of diseases, causing infant deaths and ailments.
Social reasons:
-- Latrines built by Indian government which are mostly expensive than privately built latrines in subSaharan countries are socially unacceptable because people think that a latrine near a house is ritual

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polluting.
-- Cleaning faeces is associated with "untouchables"
-- a recent survey shows that almost every villager accepts latrine to be luxuries only accessible to the rich
--- at public toilets there have been criminal attacks on women, children and men.
Economic:
--- People don't want to spend money on toilets which they never use, plus the water deficit areas are a
real challenge to working flush toilets on daily basis.
--- Lack of finances to PRI for sanitation and hygiene
--- Leakages at levels of policy implementation for sanitary and hygiene measures
--- Poverty, people cannot afford toilets
Cultural:
--- religion and culture have a great impact, for example Muslims rule out the fact of ritual polluting
--- People from ages have been defecating in open and think it is healthier
and are comfortable in following this. (Familiarity)
Various interventions by the government can be:
1. Creation of right incentive structures
2.Increasing mass awareness about the ill effects of open defecation
3. Political will in implementing policies
4. Transparency and allocation of more funds to PRI and institutions.
5. Focus on behaviour change
6. Promotion of education
Though the government has successfully implemented various programmes like SWACH BHART MISSION
and institutional changes, it needs to bring in more stringent measures and eliminate this practice as soon
as possible.
5. The National Crime Records Bureau attests that recorded instances of rape grew at a much more
frenetic pace than any other crime in India over half a century. In your opinion, what are the causes of
this disturbing trend? Do you think strong laws will reduce rape crimes? Critically comment. (200 Words)
[Linked with: Role of women; Social empowerment]
Frontline (Rape and the Indian record)
Frontline (Missing the point)
Answer:
[1]
NCRB maintains the record and statistics of crimes perpetuated In the Country and releases the Book every
year. Surprisingly rape reported has surpassed the Crimes like Kidnapping and abduction. There are several
reasons to it some of them are listed below
1 According to The Hindu survey, more then 3/4th of reported are mainly by families to track the girl in
cases where she gets eloped
2 Some Consensual sex are also getting reported as rape, Post enmity between the individuals

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3 Women breaking the glass ceiling and coming forward to report crime can be another reason
4 Post Incident like Nirbhaya, Mumbai case, etc. and judicial activism. Greater sensitive and technological
intervention with active state machinery in reporting such crimes
Suggestions
1 Interactive app, which be complemented by state machinery, to know the dark corners in city and vigilant
patrolling
2 GPS and quick response in event of mishap [rape], which is way high vis a vis to other countries
3 Gender sensitisation in schools and in academics like NJA, LBSNAA etc.
4 Consensual sex and Rape shall be treated differently, Both on judicial and legal front
Rape is Non-permitted Penetration in Women's conscience; Empathetic dimension ought not to be
overlooked.
[2]
There has been a sporadic rise in number of rape cases and other form of violence against women as
indicated by the NCRB. The causes behind it can be attributed to multiple reasons:1. Today women are increasingly participating in education, economic and other spheres. However failure
of government to provide adequate security only makes women more vulnerable at these new places like
offices, streets, pubs and late at night, leading to rise in rapes.
2. Easy availability of Pornography has also led to a rise of women related crimes. The rise of marital rapes,
child related crimes and other forceful crimes are clearly visible.
3. The patriarchal mind-set and sick mentality has become a way of justification and reason for molestation
and raping of women wearing western attire or those living their cultures.
4. Also targeting women in ethic Strifes, honour related crimes with women are also on a rise.
5. Lastly there reporting rate of such cases is also improving making their number rise further.
The present situation creates a need for stronger laws that can create deterrence towards women related
crimes.
However only a Strong law in itself is futile unless and until a comprehensive change is not brought in the
criminal justice system and social attitude towards women. So the need is to work on two fronts.
One is to bring out gender mainstreaming through grnder educating right from childhood.
Secondly, to reform criminal justice system by making police; sensitive, speedy investigation, timely justice
and rise in conviction rate.
It is only then any law of the land can help in creating a safe environment for women.
[3]
---"While a murderer destroys the physical frame of the victim, a rapist degrades and defiles the soul of a
helpless female". The quote justifies the belief the reason why rape is considered to be one of the most
heinous crimes in our society.
---During the past few years, it can be seen that there has been an increase in the reporting of rape cases,
more than any other type of crime in the country. This can be attributed to various reasons like:
1. The orthodox mentality: With the increasing modernisation in the society, women are becoming are
more independent by the day, and this includes decision to dress the way they want. Some self-imposed
moral inspectors of the society, consider this unacceptable. So, to teach them a lesson, such people
indulge in such practices of sexual violence.
2. Also, the days of the meek women are past, and the modern female is aware of her rights, and is ready

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to speak up against the wrongs done to her. This has led to an increase in the reporting of rape cases, as
the women do not consider it acceptable to hide their faces, due to someone elses crime, and rightly so.
3. Lack of proper police services in the cities, due to lesser number of personnel employed per citizen. Most
of the incidents can be avoided, if there is a proper patrol practice by the police.
4. Other reasons include lower sex ratio which leads to lesser respect for women built over ones course of
life; lack of public help as people refuse to stop the miscreants wandering in public, etc.
---Relying solely on strong laws cannot solve the problem, as govt cannot impose surveillance in every
corner of the nation. Although they are necessary, but simultaneous awareness programs can be
considered as a better long term solutions, where public are taught about gender equality, acceptance of
the modern culture, and encouraged to hand over the miscreants to the police.
---With the increasing rape incidents in most states of the country, it becomes the moral responsibility of
the govt to concentrate on such social issues too, apart from the mostly preferred economic issues and
make India a better society.
6. Keeping in mind rural sociology and farmers interest in mind, if you are asked to come up with
humane and imaginative approach to land acquisition, rehabilitation and resettlement, what would that
be? Also, Comment. (200 Words)
[Linked with: poverty and developmental issues]
Business Standard (The real issues behind land acquisition)
Answer:
[1]
In our rural agrarian sociology, farmers are inextricably tied to lands which define their existence. This
linkage is not only mere economical, but also a cordial bondage and a yardstick for their social status.
So any despotic approach towards land acquisition for developmental needs without farmers consent and
SIA (as per LARR,2014 amendments) has implications on landed farmers, their families, childrens future,
and also marginal cultivators, landless agri-labourers who depend on others land for livelihood.
For this reason, in order to survive the twin ambitions of development without abandoning the rural
farmers interest, a humane, holistic approach to land acquisition, rehabilitation and resettlement is
needed as discussed below
a) need to empower farmers, not only patronise so that they can have a say in their future making
decisions.
b) Proper critical evaluation of the forward-backward linkages with effective SIA for the probable
consequences and affected people should be done.
c) Compensation should be based on present market-value, linked with inflation.
d) Mere nominal compensation and promised rehabilitation is not a sustained solution, there should be a
livelihood-linked rehabilitation.
e) Awareness and confidence building among affected by concerned wings of project implementation to
raise the farmers bargaining power for compensation.

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f)providing training and skill-development to locals so that they can be swallowed in industrial/other
projects(for which land has been acquired) as per requirement such as repairing, maintenance, logistics
movement, security guards etc.
g) Farmers can be encouraged to but another land at some other place to continue agriculture if they found
themselves alien to the industry.
For our growth aspirations and to feed the burgeoning population, development can be only option with
multiplier spill effects, but it should be inclusive, sustained addressing most of the raising voices against it
along its journey.
[2]
The LARR 2013 Act establishes regulations for land acquisition as a part of India's massive industrialization
drive driven by public-private partnership. The LARR Act 2013 requires that a Social Impact Assessment be
conducted to identify affected families and calculate the social impact when land is acquired. Some criticize
the Act citing that it is heavily loaded in favour of land owners and ignores the needs of poor Indians.
Land plays many roles in rural India: its value as a productive factor, landownership confers collateral in
credit markets, and social status.
Approach to make it better are:
1. Compensation should be based on present market-value.
2. Give gainful employment to all women and men of the area and train local people in various
maintenance and other services needed by the industry.
3. Least productive land must be used first rather than the productive and the SIA should be mandatory for
the land where the livelihood of several people is attached to a piece of land.
4. If any offence is committed by the government, the head of the department, it should be solve in fast
manner. The red tape mechanism in the administrative division should be removed.
More transparency and public access to information. Watchdog role in relations between state, the
private sector, and civil society it could help more to maintain good relations and faith between farmers
and government.

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Role of women and womens organization, Population and Associated

Issues, Poverty and Developmental Issues, Urbanization: their Problems
and their Remedies
1. According to new data from the 2011 Census, the number of children born every year is declining
rapidly in India, but the slowdown is faster for baby girls as against baby boys. Examine the reasons and
implications of this disturbing trend. (200 Words)
The Hindu (Fewer children born each year; child sex ratio worsens)
Answer:
The Census of 2011, while showed an increase in adult sex ratio from 933 to 940, also gave gloomy picture
of decline in child sex ratio from 927 to 914 as compared to 2001 Census. Child sex ratio and associated
issues have shown trends like decline in the decline in the number of children born every year but that too
has a gender bias.
Various reasons for this trend are:
1. Families choosing to restrict their size due to increased awareness, modernization and literacy. So
families have responded to the Hum Do, Hamare Do campaign.
2. Preference for male child dominates the setup. So sex selective abortions and stopping after 1st male
child are quite prevalent.
3. Fertility in India is declining faster than expec5ed and this also fuels the craving for a male child.
4. The average age of marriage of females is increasing and lesser minor girls are getting married. So
number of children born is decreasing.
Such a situation has various demographic implications:
1. Limited size of family becomes a trend and stabilises our population boom. Thus, ensuring more
efficiency for government schemes and less pressure on our natural resources.
2. It reduces risks involved in maternal health and ensures proper upbringing.
3. But slowdown in female births skews adult sex ratio in future and decline the representation and
participation of women in political and economic spheres. This will lead to more discrimination against her.
We need to take proper initiatives in this direction especially to arrest declining child sex ratio like Beti
Bachao, Beti Padhao and prohibit sex selective abortions.
2. The union government has decided to set up One-Stop Centres that will provide assistance, legal
advice and psychological counselling to women who have faced violence or abuse. Critically comment
on measures such as this one which try to address violence against women. (200 Words)
The Hindu (Our heads hang in shame: Modi)
Answer:
[1]
Women in India suffer from multiple kinds of atrocities ranging from domestic violence to gang rapes.
Patriarchal mind-set of society, problems of law and order are primary reasons for women related violence
in India. In recent years mass protest, active solidarity movements for women has forced govt. to
promulgate new laws, strict vigil and various innovations like one stop centres whose primary objective is
to counsel the victim of abuse. The 24 hour helpline and these centres are intended to provide legal,
psychological advice to affected women. These vigorous efforts on part of government are laudable;

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however there is a lot which still needs to be done. Like while providing counselling these centres are not
empowered to file FIRs or direct state police stations to file FIRs. The effected women undergo a severe
trauma and left alone by the society. She can't even afford courage to go to police station. Online FIR
system for sex related violence may be a possible solution. Further charge sheet procedure should be
streamlined and maximum time duration should be reduced from 90 days to 30 day. Quick and fast track
disposal of sexual violence related cases by judiciary is another area. Repealing AFSPA for sex related
offences by security personnel in J&K and north east is need of the hour.
[2]
Crimes against women are increasing day and day. To tackle the atrocities against women and make
women an equal and integral part of the society, government has decided to set up one stop crisis centres
for women in distress.
These centres will provide assistance, legal advice and psychological counselling to women who faced
violence or abuse and will be connected by a universal womens helpline. 36 such crises centres will be set
up, one in each state.
To make the system gender sensitive, the Women and Child Ministry has also proposed 33% reservation for
women in police, appointment of women as Special Police Officers who will provide an interface between
the police force and the women affected by violence.
Although the measures taken by the government are impressive, but they not worth when not
implemented properly.
1. Delay in implementation:
This scheme, One Stop Crisis Centres (OSCCs), was formulated way back in 2013 but the implementation
was delayed.
2. Funds not utilized:
The Nirbhaya fund, though allocated, has still not been utilised to the full capacity.
3. Delayed Justice:
The cases related to crime against women like sexual assault, molestation and rape etc. should have
speedier trials. But, only half the fast-track courts set up across the country are still functional. Rest of them
have closed down due to lack of funds.
A speedier implementation of the measures taken is the need of the hour to improve status of women in
India in terms of education, mortality, life expectancy, participation in local government, budget allocations
among others.

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3. Despite the gains women have made in education, health and even political power in the course of a
generation, violence against women and girls worldwide persists at alarmingly high levels, according to
a United Nations analysis. Critically analyse the magnitude of this problem and suggest what needs to
be done at global level to address this issue. (200 Words)
The New York Times (U.N. Reveals Alarmingly High Levels of Violence against Women)
The Hindu (The unfinished agenda of the 21st century)
Answer:
According to recent UN report the magnitude of violence against women is still very serious after 20 years
of Beijing Declaration on women rights. Under current scenario:
[1] Around the world, ~ 35% women have experienced sexual or physical violence from intimate/non
intimate partners.
[2] One in 10 girls under 18 were forced to have sex
[3] Reportage of cases of violence is minuscule
[4] Sex selective abortions in developing countries [India, Armenia etc.] are on rise. Many women have
been kept as sex slaves in African and Middle East countries (+ISIS)
[5] Cases of domestic violence are on rise and are mostly under reported
Last century has seen significant progress in empowerment of women like:
[1] Access to primary and higher education
[2] Participation in work forces ,driven by globalization
[3] Falling pay gap between men and women
[5] Falling female mortality rate and Gender Inequality Gap, rising political empowerment and
Still, progress in reducing violence against women have been slow due to :
[1] Under the basis of cultural issues many countries have not legislated punitive laws for violence against
women [Arab countries] or adjudication process being very slow [India].
[2] Domestic violence and marital rape ,which consists of significant chunk, not being criminal offences in
many countries [like India, Nigeria]
[3] Still gaps of income, literacy, political participation exist
[4] Many countries in Middle East, South Asia are facing hostile situations [Communal violence, internal
migrations, forced conversions],in which women are soft targets.
Under this scenario serious global effort is required to mitigate violence against women and accelerate the
process of empowerment like:
[1]Mitigation of violence against women should be made one of targets in a serious note, in Sustainable
Development Goals which is to be adopted and shown real progress by member countries in time bound
manner
[2]Start of campaigns for women empowerment IEC activities, help to women in distress and end to
violence against on the model of Polio Elimination/Climate Agreements
[3]Make funding commitments from member countries [+World Bank] to support such programs and
incentives for countries doing real progress in this direction
[4] Make 'end to violence against women' as one of primary criteria for international funding
[5]Need for speedy adjudication of cases, comprehensive criminal laws covering all sorts of violence against
women and international pressure and sanctions against countries who do not recognise equal rights of
women under pretexts of their local culture

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4. An interesting way of studying the population composition of a country is by looking at the population
pyramid, also called an age-sex pyramid. With examples, examine how this pyramid helps in studying
population composition of a country. (200 Words)
NCERT (Class VII, Resources and Development, Chapter 6)
Answer:
[1]
Age sex pyramid is a specially designed and most effective diagram to study the age and sex
composition of the population. This diagram resembles the shape of the pyramid and thus is termed as
pyramid diagram. The bars are arranged in the form of a pyramid having longer bar at the base
representing youngest age group and shorter bar at the apex representing oldest age group. The bar shows
different age group, males on the left and females on the right. Horizontal bars show the percentage of
males and females in each age group. The shape of pyramid throws light on the history and the
characteristic of the population.
The overall shape of the pyramid indicates the potential for future growth. The four representations of
population age-sex structure provide an overall example of what a pyramid for different levels of
population growth would look like- rapid growth, slow growth, zero growth, and negative growth. The
country pyramids shown in "Three Patterns of Population Change" also represent different stages of
population growth going on today.

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[2]
The population composition of a country tells about age profile, sex, literacy level, health condition,
occupation and income level. Thus, the structure of the population is called population composition. A
population pyramid is a graphical representation of population composition. In a population pyramid, the
total population is divided into various age groups, e.g. 5 to 9 years, 10 to 14 years, etc. For each age group,
the percentage of the total population is subdivided into males and females. The relative number of
children (below 15 years) and that of the elderly (above 65 years) shows the relative number of dependents
in the population. The relative number of people in the working age (between 15 and 65 years) shows the
relative number of productive people.
There are generally three types of population pyramids created from age-sex distributions--expansive,
constrictive and stationary.
EXPANSIVE population (Large base, narrow top) pyramids show larger numbers or percentages of the
population in the younger age groups. These types of pyramids are usually found in populations with very
large fertility rates and lower than average life expectancies. The age-sex distributions of many Third World
countries (especially African, Bangladesh) would probably display expansive population pyramids.
CONSTRICTIVE population pyramids display lower numbers or percentages of younger people. The age-sex
distributions of the United States fall into this type of pyramid.
STATIONARY (nearly uniform from bottom to top) or near-stationary population pyramids display
somewhat equal numbers or percentages for almost all age groups. Of course, smaller figures are still to be
expected at the oldest age groups. The age-sex distributions of some European countries, especially
Scandinavian ones, will tend to fall into this category.
Thus the population pyramid gives platform for formulation of policies for the benefits of several age
groups.
5. What are the significant features of the National Population Policy 2000? Evaluate how effective this
policy has been in meeting its objectives. (200 Words)
NCERT (Class IX, Contemporary India, Chapter 6)
Answer:
[1]
India accounts for its second place in highest population in world and this made India to launch National
family planning programme in 1952, though the birth rate started decreasing, death rate also decreased
sharply which led to overall increase in population. Here by where parliament brought National population
policy in 2000.
Features of NPP
Address the unmet needs for contraception; health care infrastructure and personnel and to provide
integrated service delivery for basic reproductive and child health care; Reduce IMR, MMR, TFR by certain
levels; Prevent and control communicable diseases; free and compulsory school education up to 14 years of
age; promoting delayed marriage for girls; promote small family norm.
Effectiveness of policy seen in measures adopted by govt
Right to Education under Article 21A ; With the help of 84th constitutional amendment seizing in state wide
allocations of seats in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha till 2026 where it would serve as motivational measure to

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put blockade to population explosion ;National Population Stabilization Fund was setup to meet the
demands ; Programmes like ICDS , Midday meal , National rural health mission , Janani Surakhsha Yojana ;
Free contraceptives & sterilization methods , Recent success in polio immunization .
There were still failures in Reducing IMR and Fertility rates, death of women in Chhattisgarh due to faulty
sterilization and some other objectives failing to achieve in rural areas. Accomplishing the objectives merely
in quantitative terms shows success only in numerical but if met in qualitative terms and with strict
implementation it will satisfy the demands to its fullest to the human needs.
[2]
India has the second largest Population in the world after China. To provide a policy framework with
respect to population, the National Population Policy was introduced in 2000.
The policy provides a framework to provide free and compulsory education till the age of 14,
reducing infant mortality rate to around 30 out of every 1000 infants born and also achieving immunization
against all vaccine preventable diseases, increasing the age of marriage for girls and also making family
planning more people-centric.
NPP also focuses on adolescents as a target sector which needed attention. Besides nutritional needs it also
emphasised on protection from STDs, unwanted pregnancies etc.
The policy has achieved some of its objectives like
1- The government has made right to education a fundamental right by article 21A passed by the 86th
constitutional amendment act 2002.
2- It succeeded in making family planning more people centric, through the use of hum do hamare do
campaigns.
3- Immunization against some diseases like polio has been achieved making India a polio free nation.
4- And problems related to girls have also been taken up through various awareness campaigns.
Even though the NPP has not met all its objectives, it has played a part in sensitizing the public about
population growth and the detrimental effect it has on society if left unchecked.
6. The empowerment and improvement in the status of women must not only be economically and
socially but also in terms of good health and hygiene at workplace. Critically comment. (200 Words)
The Hindu (59 per cent women skip work because of health)
Answer:
In spite of providing economic and social empowerment to the women resulting in their increased
engagement in employment and access to resource, there has been increasing absenteeism amounting to
59% missing women from work owing to health issues.
Good health and hygiene helps increase the confidence of women and increases their participation and
productivity. Though efforts are made by the employers to provide healthy work environment by the
provision of sick leave, maternity benefits, dispensaries at work, medical insurance, etc. but these are
subject to applicability according to designations and sectors of employment where the unorganized sector
is deprived of all such benefits.

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Women should also be provided with a healthy environment for mental peace and to work efficiently. This
requires a change in the mind-set of the employers who discriminate them with their male counterparts in
work and believe that in spite of providing additional benefits, their contribution is not significant and their
energy is diverted towards family. A similar cooperation is also demanded from the family for developing a
perfect work-life balance for the women.
Thus, women should be regarded as asset and providing them with required benefits as a regard for their
contribution to the organization as well as the family and society at large.
7. How is literacy measured in India? Why do you see variation in literacy rates between different states
in India? Examine the socio-economic causes behind such differences. (200 Words)
[Linked with: Salient features of Indian Society]
India 2015; Chapter 1 (Land and the People)
Answer:
A person aged seven and above, who can both read and write in any one language is treated as literate.
Literacy reflects socio-economic and cultural setup of a nation. Literacy is not only necessary for eradication
of poverty but also for mental isolation for free play of demographic processes.
The various determinants of literacy explain the various literacy rates between states:
1. Type of economy: differences in levels of industrial and agricultural states correlates to education. In
non-agricultural economy literacy is a functional pre-requisite
2. Cost of education: cost effects as most poor people cannot afford education
3. Standard of living: there is a positive correlation between literacy level and standard of living
4. Political/ideological background: Affects the psychology of the family to educate a person.
5. Degree of urbanization: more urbanized states have a better level of literacy while rural have low.
7. Availability of educational institutions: quality and better government institutions give better access to
educating masses
8. Public policies: government intervention is a major factor for providing education to masses
9. Degree of development of transport and communication: isolated areas in a state which are provided
better transport and communication in states have better access to educational institutions.
10. Prejudices against the female mobility and education: societies and states which do not accord equal
status to women suffer from low female literacy rates
11. Religious background: role of religion is quite vital
12. Medium of instruction: mother tongue as a medium of instruction helps better grasping
13. Stage of technological advancement
14. General value system

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The various disparities in literacy rates of the states can be removed by government intervention provided
the states have the will and infrastructure to do so.
8. India has a gender participation gap that is higher than all Group of Twenty (G-20) nations other than
Saudi Arabia. Critically examine its reasons and implications. (200 Words)
[Linked with: GS3: Employment]
Livemint (Gender gap at work)
Answer:
Gender Participation gap is the difference between labour force participation ratios for males and females;
to have India's Gender Participation Gap higher than all G-20 nations (expect Saudi Arabia) is matter of
great concern. Contrary to all other emerging markets which have seen an increase in female labour
participation, India continues to score poorly in this respect.
Reasons:
1. Patriarchal societal mind-set: still frowns upon females working outside home; often in families
encourage females to stick to domestic chores & responsibilities within four walls.
2. Poor literacy rate: in females along with their lower participation in higher education translates into
lesser females in skilled & specialized jobs.
3. Dual burden: working women always have to walk a tight rope between domestic responsibilities &
office; lack of support/appreciation from family often forces them to quit work.
4. Insensitive labour market: women in child bearing age often are placed at disadvantage in matter of
leave, salary & promotion etc.
Implications: reduced female labour participation in economy
1. Inability to reap demographic dividend.
2. Will lead to stunted economic growth.
3. Reduced social capital formation so govt.'s development will not yield desired result.
Conclusion: To enhance female labour participation it is essential to have
1. Flexible & gender sensitive labour market & laws.
2. Increase female literacy.
3. Ensure female ownership of assets.

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9. Apart from regional inequality at national level, many states in India have intra-state regional
inequality that has hampered their overall growth and development. Critically analyse such intra-state
regional inequality by taking examples of any two states. (200 Words)
Livemint (A tale of two Karnatakas)
Livemint (The land of fortune and farmer suicides)
Answer:
[1]
The intrastate regional inequality among Indian states is as evident as the interstate inequality. It can be
seen in case of many states like Maharashtra, Karnataka etc. We can see a clear intrastate divide in terms
of amenities, infrastructure and economic growth.
1) Maharashtra: Even though Maharashtra is one of the richest state in India but there is a clear divide
between the west and east Maharashtra. On one had the Western part have city like Mumbai and rich
coastal and Konkan regions, on the other hand the deprived and farmer suicide prone area of Vidarbha and
to some extent Marathwada. Even though Marathwada is slightly better than Vidarbha but they are also
prone to regular draughts and crop failure.
2) Karnataka: The state of Karnataka has been recognised by State Recognition Commission based on the
language spoke, thus it includes both the region under Mysore state (southern parts) and the northern
parts. The southern regions are more developed in terms of amenities and property ownership than north.
Even though the ownership divide has reduced post 2001 but the amenities divide still exists.
The Government have formed development boards in Maharashtra to balance the divide, similarly
Karnataka Government have also recognised the problem and have formed the board to look into the
possibility of bridging the gap. However, the reasons for the inequality is not only political but also
geographical as well as historical, hence, any solution should be designed by keeping all the aspects in view.
[2]
Regional inequality is the silent problem that in fact serves to lower the development of entire country. The
funds allocated to states on basis of backwardness are usually spent by ambitious ministers on high tech
projects and the comparatively developed areas to serve the business interests, while the backward area
becomes comparatively even worse off and suffers a talent drain.
This process starts an evil cycle of continual degradation of administrative and entrepreneurial abilities as
consequently worst talents are posted to the backward areas. The people that live in the area don't get the
'extra' support that is needed to break the cycle. Monetary benefits can't be utilised because of the inept
governance and cronyism.
Finally when the people from the backward area migrate to the developed parts they lower the standards
of living there, depress wages, lower infrastructure facilities available and contribute to crime. Though the
migrant labour serves as cheap source of human muscle power, they are exploited heavily and don't learn
skills required to bring development back to their native places. This is a chronic problem in big cities like
Mumbai,( Due to relative deprivation of eastern Maharashtra compared to Konkan coast )where the
development of the city has to take into consideration the entire hinterland, which indirectly depends upon

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it. Since the increased revenue isn't invested in upgrading the developed areas and the money in backward
area is squandered, the entire nation suffers.
UP has eastern sections which are comparatively backward and puts pressure on the other parts too. The
need of the hour is to set up transparent, efficient administration and then improve the quality of local
governance of the areas. People should be made stakeholders in development process. Only then, can the
centralised fund grants be used and national progress is possible.
10. Smart cities need to be designed keeping in mind our biggest objectives sustainable inclusive
development and social transformation. Critically examine if the governments smart city project meets
these two objectives. (200 Words)
The Indian Express (How to be smart)
Answer:
Sustainable development in city includes connectivity, cleanliness and management of basic utilities.
Currently, cities are centres where differences between rich and poor are highest in terms of wages and
opportunities.
Social transformation in India is inherent strain in development of country, smart city can dilute this strain,
but effort seems to be against it.
100 smart cities in India is definitely a laudable idea, India is energy deficient country, resources are plenty
but are under-utilized, and demographic dividend is being wasted in corrupt government schemes for rural
development.
Indian model of smart cities must include:
1. Mechanism of solar energy conservation (available plenty)
2. Cheap transport facilities (for all commuters)
3. Free health facilities centres (for poor)
4. Garden farming facilities to control inflation (fruits & vegetables)
5. Least production of GHG in comparison of current levels in cities
6. Proper Waste management for clean rivers and lakes in and around cities
7. Safety and Security for Women, Children, and Elder people. (through Education and least corrupt
security).
Current Government model is a smart city in the sense that of Europe or U.S. which is not really realistic. It
is not right definition of a smart city for India
Government needs to change mind-set of being smart, just providing automatic utilities by bringing FDI
and charging thrice on utilities will create deep rift between rich and poor, which is not being smart.

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11. Critically comment on the design, objectives and performance of the Twenty Point Programme of the
government of India. (200 Words)
[Linked with: GS2: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre]
India 2015/2014, Chapter 6, Basic Economic Data
Answer:
Twenty point programme was last restructured in 2006, it is an amalgamation of such schemes
which addresses eradication of poverty and improvement in the quality of life.
The basic objective of the 20-Point Programme is to eradicate poverty and to improve the quality of life of
the poor and the under privileged population of the country.
For its performance government has established, The management information system" relating to
Twenty Point developed by the Ministry consists of a monthly Progress Report (MPR) and yearly Review of
the Programme.
Under this programme several acts has been passed by government like MNREGA, NFSA, RTE, etc. Many
policies and schemes like Mid-Day Meal, ICDS, Sarvshikha Abhiyan, PM's 14 fourteen programme for
minorities are being framed and implemented by government with help of states.
There has been certain change after implementation of these programmes, like decrease in BPL
families, increase wages in rural areas, rise of literacy levels, rise in HDI performance of country, etc.
But, implementation and distribution of schemes and funds respectively are as usual with
many discrepancies.
Many loopholes in PDS system, TPDS has fake beneficiaries, RTE needs schools and quality teachers. NFSA is
lacking in nutrient value. Low Child sex-ratio even after many efforts to promote female child are seen in
India.
So, proper implementation and restructuring of some schemes must be done by government to achieve
goals of Twenty Point Programme and also to achieve MDG within time frame.
12. Many countries around the world have tried to replicate the Singapore Model of city-state
administration and have failed. Critically examine the merits and demerits of this model and examine if
this model is suitable for replication in Indias metropolitan cities. (200 Words)
Business Standard (Singapore's elusive model)
The Hindu (Strongman who took Singapore to the First World)
Answer:
[1]
---Today, Singapore stands as an elaborate example to the world, of how a small third world country can be
transformed into a country envied by the most developed and large nations of the world.
---This development has come, but at a price which many other countries are not willing to pay religiously,
due to the unique nature of Singapore, which makes the adoption of its model unviable for other countries.
---The model adopted was basically dictatorial in nature, with the best interest of the nation, as the prime

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motive of the first PM, Lee Kuan Yew, who died recently.
---Merits:
1. There is negligible dissent on any issue, and a person like Yew was reputed to work for the betterment of
nation, due to which there was no public opposition.
2. It follows a dynastic rule, due to which the policies of the same person are expected to be followed in the
future.
3. The country was able to function like a single industry, with the family members of the ruling party
always in consensus with each other.
---Demerits:
1. Such a dynastic rule may not remain the best rule for long, as the next generation may try to use the
power for personal gain.
2. Lack of dissent leads to a lack of diversity of perspective on a single issue, leading to lesser chance of
evolution later.
3. Can lead to civil unrest and breakdown of political system too, in the long run, when the rulers are no
longer beneficial to the public interest.
---Such a model can be implemented in the Indian cities, if we take the positive points and adjust them
according to Indias democratic frame.
1. The opposition parties in India only oppose whatever be the policies of the ruling party. Such a culture
needs to be replaced with the political will to work for the people and have consensus on beneficial policies
always.
2. The drive to eradicate slums can be copied directly, by building similar buildings in India, where the poor
can live affordably. This will need a drive to eradicate corruption in such projects.
---The only thing that is hindering the adoption of Singapore model in rest of countries is the lack of a
political will to work together. If that happens, there is no need for a single family to
watch over every sector in a country.
[2]
Singapore has risen like a phoenix from ashes to life. It was a small Island bereft by Malaysia
post the racial wars in Singapore. It not only ranks high on economic prosperity but also on Human
Development Index. Many countries have tried to copy the model, but this model has certain merits as well
as demerit
Merit
1) Vision: Built with the vision to make a third world country into a first world country within a generation
2) Business focused and entrepreneurial in nature: It has ensured high Ease in doing business, it a major
commodity hub and very low on corporate taxes.
3) Amalgamation of ethnics: Various ethnics (Chinese, Indian, Philippines etc.) are all bound by a single
thread of business and development.
4) Corporate Nature: It works as a giant corporate with Politicians getting executive level salary and major
companies are owned by family of Lee Kuan Yew.

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Demerits
1) Political system: It runs as a benevolent doctorial regime, it worked for Singapore but many countries in
Middle East are suffering badly due to dictators.
2) Small Island with great port: Singapore is half the size of Delhi with a strong port system and geography
which gives it advantage over Sunda strait. However, every nation doesn't have this kind of advantage.
3) No nearby large port: There is no massive port competing with Singapore in the nearby region, however,
the scenario may change with advent of Hambantota port in Sri Lanka.
Thus, Singapore reaped the benefit of its geography and strengths like port and Singapore strait but it lacks
in natural resources and many countries who would like to copy Singapore model may not have similar
strength and weaknesses and hence adopting this model should be well thought of.
[Comment]
Different nations are placed under different circumstances, so 'one size fit for all' model seems to be
impractical.
Singapore with a population of 5.3 million having people from Chinese, Indian, Malaysian ethnicity and an
area of 780 sq km is endowed with strategic position and well equipped port system. The city-state model
followed by this small island nation has following merits & demeritsMerits- 1. This model aided by its strategic location and business oriented citizens helped to transform a
third world nation into a first world nation.
2. Ease of doing business with transparent & incorruptible administration makes Singapore one of the
highest in term of per capita GDP.
3. It is 9th in global HDI, and tops the HDI list in Asia.
4. Paternal authoritarianism with endeavour and compassion can transform an economy, and can install
racial harmony by recognizing cultures of different community (4 national languages).
Demerits- 1. Highly centralised, unitary, authoritarian form of govt with dynastic politics.
2. Rising income inequality led to angry under class and frustrates middle class.
3. Single political party with no opposition.
India needs to take positives of this model (transparent, incorruptible administration, ease of doing
business, multiculturalism, citizen centric policy formulation, political will) and avoid negatives (centralised,
unitary govt, inequalities).
13. The growing problem of increase in the size of slums should be seen in light of the effects of price
control, rather than simply as a matter of a gap in housing demand required to be subsidized through
increased spending by government. Elaborate and suggest what should be governments approach
towards providing affordable housing to the urban poor. (200 Words)
[Linked with: GS2: Welfare schemes]
Livemint (Ending Indias housing squeeze)
Answer:
Renting is an important alternative to ownership of property. Rent Control measures become necessary
when demand for rental property far outstrips the supply and tenants become vulnerable to exploitation
by the landlords. In India, as in most parts of the world, rent control acts were motivated by scarcity of

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rental housing during world wars. The rents so fixed are not revised periodically and have become
unrealistic. The low rates of return have turned renting almost into a welfare activity for the landlord and
act as disincentives to repair and maintain the property, often resulting in building collapse. The quality of
housing, therefore, takes a severe beating. Prospective landlords are deterred from entering the rental
market, preventing the supply of new stock.
Amendment of rent control laws is one of the mandatory reforms suggested in the Jawaharlal Nehru
National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM). The required reform of rent control acts has to be directed
towards:
Fixation of standard rent (SR) at a specified percent of cost of construction and the value of land in the
year of construction
Provision for contractual or semi-contractual tenancy within the framework of rent control act.
Limiting inheritability of tenancy to specified heirs and for a limited period.
Streamlining judicial procedure to expedite the process of law.
Old/existing rent control acts to be repealed.
Setting a timeframe for to bring the rent in old/existing tenancies to market level.

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Effects of globalization on Indian society

1. The State of the elderly in India: 2014 report serves to highlight the dichotomy between an
apparently happy picture of increased longevity and the reality of long years of hopelessness without
family, society or state support, which the elderly in India face today. Critically analyse. (200 Words)
Frontline (State of the elderly)
Answer:
With marvels in preventive medicines, better food, sanitation and health care, Longevity has increased
considerably (Life Expectancy) from 36 years in 1947 to 68 years in 2014. Lifestyles, priorities and
technological advancements are changing fast in societies, which pushed the aged people on corner and
made them live a secluded life. There are many reasons for misery of old people these days which raise
doubts on whether longevity of some extra years filled with idleness and hopelessness are really great
achievement ?. Some problems elderly people faces are:
(1.) Loneliness as all children are preferring nuclear family.
(2.) Lesser social space due to busy life of everyone.
(3.) Mostly they are under life supporting drugs which prevent them from taking radical steps like exercise,
travelling alone, living unattended by nurse etc.
(4.) Dependent monetary wise on someone else.
(5.) Loss of self-esteem because, once they were useful part of society but due to technological
development and all, there experience and wisdom doesnt hold any value now.
(6.) Many elderly are single as other partner has died, so they are left with no one to depend on.
Some steps needed to minify such issues:
(1.) Spreading awareness for insurance, provident funds, retirement plans.
(2.) Regular training in all fields so that, they are updated with newer ways and technologies in those fields.
(3.) Increased stress on formation of Old age home in each districts where one can settle after retirement.
NGOs can also come forward for it.
(4.) Elders who were in good services like teaching, nursing etc. Their service should be increased if they
wish with no raise in salary.
Govt should focus on providing safety net for old aged by various health cover plans; this will boost health
sector as well as insurance sector. Old age care home is also required for their support and care.

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Social empowerment, Communalism, Regionalism and Secularism

1. Any restriction on religious conversion, whether on ground of social tension or changing
demographics or national character, will amount to a serious violation of the fundamental right to
freedom of religion. Critically comment. (200 Words)
The Hindu (Debating religious conversions)
Answer:
Freedom of religion is fundamental right in Indian Constitution and our preamble which is the soul of our
constitution gives the liberty of faith and worship. So In India there is freedom to choose any religion and
have faith in it. This also implies that we can change our religion if we have faith in the new religion based
on our freedom. So it totally depends on individual choice and not a collective right. Now if want to restrict
any religious conversion based on any assumption or on the grounds of social tension or demographic
change then it will be against the fundamental right under article 25. Some sections of society on the
reasoning of social service push people to do conversion which is wrong but that needs to be proved that in
these cases any force is used to convert people and it was not by choice. Any law to restrict conversion is
not justified and existing laws can restrict the forcible and fraudulent conversions.
Here we need to understand that in India definition of secular is different and here it means all religions are
equal and state will not interfere or discriminate in any religion. So propagating and promotion of
conversion is not wrong if it is done by choice and not forced. We need to understand that there are some
weaker sections of society who are vulnerable and are forced by people to convert, we need to stop that
force and we need to stop these people from being vulnerable. There is no religion as a whole which is in
danger.
So until and unless it is not forced we cannot make a law based on social tension or national character, we
are a secular country and everyone has own rights to change their religion by free will and have faith in it.
2. Critically analyse the importance of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1,325 in the
empowerment of women and the challenges in its implementation. (200 Words)
[Linked with: Role of women and womens organization]
The Indian Express (Her peace)
Answer:
The UN Security Council adopted resolution-1325 on women and peace and security on 31st Oct, 2000.
The resolution reaffirms the important role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflict, peace
negotiation, peace building, peace keeping, humanitarian response and in post conflict reconstruction and
stresses the importance of their equal participation and full involvement in all efforts for the maintenance
and promotion of peace and security.
Resolution-1325 urges all actors to increase the participation of women and incorporate gender
perspective in all UN peace and security efforts.
It also calls on all parties to conflict to take special measure to protect women and girl from gender based
violence. Particularly, rape and other forms of sexual abuse in case of armed conflict.
Challenges:1) All aspects contributing to the vulnerability of women in society like illiteracy, violence, lack of social

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security etc. are challenges in its implementation.

2) Challenges remain in fully implementing UNSCR-1325 at the operational level. There continues to be
widespread report of sexual abuse and exploitation by peacekeeping operations, despite increased
attention to the issue.
3) Much needs to be done in the areas of peace and security as well as political representation where
women's continuing marginalization depletes the survival chances of accord and lasting peace.
Thus, the 15th anniversary of UN Security Council resolution-1325 is an invitation to re-envision a global
compact that foreground the link between sustainable development, security, and peace and gender
justice.
3. Pakistans history is a testament to the fact that religion cannot knit together a people divided along
regional lines. Critically analyse. (200 Words)
Livemint (Pakistan: A once dangerous idea)
Answer:
[1]
Traditionally, religion has been a unifying factor for groups and societies. This great adhesive force becomes
a force of discord, disunity and conflict when used as a political ideology. Religion has also been a cause of
conflict when used by a group or section of society or a state for internal hegemony or foreign conquests
and expansion.
In todays world, religion is losing its significance due to secularization and replacement by nationalism
which is a state of mind that seeks to make the nation an effective unity and the object of mans supreme
loyalty.
A case can be made here about Pakistan. In the aftermath of the partition, religion, as a uniting force
disappeared. It remained useful to counter India but domestically regionalism held sway.
the first rumblings of separatism in Bengal could be heard in the 1950s. Resentment
against Punjab continues to this day. These troubles were foundational.
Pakistan was far more imbalanced internallyboth in a geographic sense and in
terms of relative political strength and resources between different provinces.
in Pakistan, Punjab state has been in command for the majority of the countrys
existence.
unequal resource distribution leading to formation of Bangladesh in 1971
These divisions have occurred despite the common bonding force of religion, the basis on which the
country was formed. This can be overcome only with nationalism and not fundamentalism. As long as Islam
remains a factor in Pakistans political equation, the countrys political problems wont go away.
[2]
The founders of Pakistan were of the ideological mind-set that the Indian subcontinent had to be divided
on the basis of religion into Muslim and Hindu majority states respectively. But the fact is that religion as a
common factor does not guarantee peace between different regions and diverse sections of people from
those regions, as is seen in the case of Pakistan to this day.
Pakistan has been reeling under internal turmoil between various sections of the society, some examples
are

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1- The Baluchistan issue, where the people of the Baluchistan province have long clamoured for
independence from Pakistan.
2- People from the outer provinces protesting that the government is mainly controlled by the Sindhis and
Punjabis.
3- Issues of terrorists being harboured in the FATA (federally administered tribal areas) and the KhyberPakhtunwa provinces who attack Pakistan even though they share the same faith.
4- Lastly, the split of Pakistan and Bangladesh in 1971 in which India played the role of liberator is the
clearest example which shows that a common religion cannot always knit together people divided along
regional lines.
The founder of Pakistan prophetically says, It is easier to acquire a country, but it is extremely difficult to
retain it. The country he acquired has been facing a battle within its borders and has been fighting to
retain its identity almost from the very day it was created.

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Salient features of worlds physical geography (includes India)

1. How did Northern Plains of India originate? Describe their prominent features and their importance to
Indias economy. (200 Words)
NCERT (Class IX, Contemporary India, Chapter 2)
Answer:
Origin:
The great Northern Plains of India are an aggradational surface of great extent formed after the Himalayas.
They are comparatively of recent origin and are believed to have formed by the filling up of a depression
resulting from the uplifting of the Himalayas, by deposition of sediments brought by swift-flowing
Himalayan Rivers, originated in Himalayas.
Features:
The most characteristic feature of the great plains of Northern India is their extreme horizontality. From
the geomorphological aspect there is no difference between the Indus basin and the Ganga-Brahmaputra
basin.
They are classified into four distinct divisions:
1. Bhabar belt: made up of pebbles and boulders, the streams flow underground, adjacent to foothills
2. Terai belt: composed of new alluvium, region is damped and thickly forested and receives heavy rainfall
throughout the year and has a variety of wildlife.
3. Bangar Belt: composed of old alluvium forms Gangetic delta, covered by laterite deposits
4. Khadar Belt: made up of new alluvium of the flood zones.
Economic Importance of Northern Plains:
Northern Plains produces 60% of food in India. It is home to around 65 crore people. Himalayan forests
have several wildlife species, and these forests are also having species for medicinal use. Agriculture,
livestock, power plants, industries and tourism provide employment to more than half of population in
India.
2. What are the major differences between Peninsular Rivers and the Himalayan Rivers of India? Do you
think linking of peninsular rivers with the Himalayan Rivers is a feasible idea? Examine. (200 Words)
NCERT (Class IX, Contemporary India, Chapter 3)
Answer:
Difference:
The Himalayan Rivers rise at high elevations and are fed by the eternal snow of the Himalayan glaciers. The
Deccan Rivers rise at much lower heights in the Western Ghats and other mountain ranges and are rain fed.
The Himalayan Rivers flow through young topography, and as they emanate from great heights,
their erosive power is more. They frequently change course and are continuously shaping the
valleys through which they flow. The peninsular rivers flow through comparatively more stable land and
channels through which they flow have already reached base levels.

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Linking Rivers:
India has 18% of world population, and only 4% of water resources. The river is an integral part of human
settlements, their lives, landscape, society, culture, history and religion.
Merits of Linking:
1. Large water resources are unevenly distributed so waters can be managed.
2. Flood Control by creating dams, reservoirs, etc. possible
3. Power generation is possible, by mini hydro plants and solar plants floating of surface waters.
4. Employment generation, growth in Inland waterways.
Demerits:
1. By spending 50 % of GDP it can take 10 15 years in completion, so it will make water more costly.
2. Loss of Flora and Fauna
3. Thousands of acres land acquisition is practically impossible, it can create human re-settlement issues,
and loss of cultural habitats.
So, though Supreme Court has ordered to inter-link rivers, and government is showing interest in it, I shall
suggest taking enhanced water conversations measures instead of going forward with river linking
project.
3. Write a note on the factors that control climate of India. Also explain the origin of monsoon rains in
layman terms. (200 Words)
NCERT (Class IX, Contemporary India, Chapter4)
Answer:
India, not only unique to its diversity, culture and history but, also, to its geographic and climatic features
which makes more special.
Factors that control climate of India:
- Countries location and its Latitude: Where Tropic of cancer divides India into half which has high impact
on climate.
- Countries Physiography & Mountain systems: Prevention of cold in north& blocking of rain to southern
states in south.
- Continentality effects: coastal areas experience less contrast in temp conditions compared to landlocked
ones
- Monsoon winds, air circulations and western disturbances: Gives gifted rainy season and westerly &
easterly jet streams
- Ocean currents
- Southern oscillations (El nino and la nina)
Origin of monsoons:
India being the middle of Arabian Sea and bay of Bengal there was higher chances of rain in form of onset
and retreating monsoons.
Onset monsoon: By heating the land in summer season because of ITCZ shift, low pressure created above
northern plains which attracts trade winds in southern hemisphere from southwest direction from Arabian
Sea and even from bay of Bengal they both merge together on northern plains and turn back by hitting
lofty mountains
Retreating monsoon: By oct-nov low which begins in north western states where low pressure region
replaces by high pressure and results in withdrawal of monsoon.

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Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South

Asia and the Indian Subcontinent); Factors responsible for the location
of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of
the world (including India )
1. What are the different non-conventional sources of energy? Do you think they have been adequately
utilized in India? Critically examine. (200 Words)
NCERT (Class VIII, Resources and Development, Chapter 3)
Answer:
Non-conventional sources of energy are those which have not been use that frequently in the past unlike
conventional sources like coal, oil etc. Different types of non-conventional sources of energy include solar
power, wind energy, biogas, tidal energy, shale gas, coal bed methane, geothermal energy etc. All these
sources are renewable or inexhaustible and do not cause environmental pollution
Despite Indian physiography being favourable towards non-conventional with a vast resources of these the
share of non-conventional sources to the total energy hovers around 10% which shows their underutilization. India have not been able to reap the benefits of non-conventional energy owing to following
reasons:1) Lack of advanced technology which is required to avail the energy as sources like solar, wind, geothermal
requires advanced technology.
2) Shortage of capital along with lack of interest shown by foreign investors owing to differences over some
laws. Further lack of political will complicates the matter.
3)High Cost-benefit ratio of the energy produced from these sources compared to conventional sources
and easy availability of conventional sources like coal etc. go against the non-conventional sources
4)Delay in land acquisition process have also created hurdles as some of the non-conventional sources like
solar wind power requires huge land area.
Of late the government is moving towards non-conventional sources owing to present energy starved
status of the country along with increasing demand for energy and environment concerns. Recent deals
with countries like USA; Germany etc. in the field is a step forward in the direction of tapping these nonconventional sources. Further the Make in India campaign will also help along with initiatives like floating
solar cells on canals, rivers which were also praised by the UN General Secretary Ban-Ki-Moon.
It is high time that the country should move forward to non-conventional sources in a larger way by
collaborating with technologically advances countries along with making the business environment
conducive for foreign investment in the country in order to fill the demand-supply gap without having an
imprint on the environment.

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2. What are the important factors that determine the location of an industry? With suitable examples,
examine the factors responsible for the location and growth of cotton industry around the world. (200
Words)
NCERT (Class VIII, Resources and Development, Chapter 5)
Answer:
Factors that affect the location of an industry can be broadly divided into two categories: Geographical
factors and Non-geographical factors.
GEOGRAPHICAL FACTORS :Land : cheap and easy land acquisition procedures is very important; Raw
materials: industries tends to be located where there is easy availability of raw materials; Power; labour;
Transport ;Market ;Water ;climate
NON-GEOGRAPHICAL FACTORS :Capital; Government policies : investment friendly government attracts
industries; Insurance , banking facilities and financial institutions; stable economic and political situation.
Factors responsible for the location and growth of cotton industry around the world are:
1.climatic conditions apply much influence on the location of cotton industry. A considerable humid
condition is must otherwise the cotton yarns would break up during the spinning process. Dry conditions
are detrimental to cotton production
2.Raw cotton availability is undoubtedly essential. But with improvement in transportation and cross
border linkages, there has not been much difference in the prices of raw cotton near the farms and far
away. So, it has in certain sense lost much importance in determining industry location.
3. Cotton industry requires significant power .Therefore it is generally located near power plants.
4. The textile industry is preferably set up where market is close and easily accessible. Restrictions and
regulation on imports and exports along with duties affect the choice of location of cotton industry.
All these are the reasons why we see cotton industries concentrated in coastal areas in India like Mumbai,
Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. They provide humid conditions, good markets and have excellent port facilities.
But, no single set of factors are responsible for cotton industry location globally. Factors in India and Britain
with regard to cotton industry location are significantly different. But factors like power, climate and labour
are key and true for everywhere.
3. The potential of tourism industry in India remains untapped despite efforts made by successive
governments since independence. Suggest what proactive measures are needed to revive this sector.
(200 Words)
Business Standard (We're aiming at a clean, safe and hospitable tourism industry)
Answer:
India has a vast tourism potential ranging from Himalayas, beaches of Goa and Kerala, Spiritual places,
Buddhist places and many more.
But this vast potential has been untapped for many reasons:
1) Cleanliness: Cleanliness is a main concern for the foreign tourists coming from west and many of the
tourist places are not clean.
With Swachh Bharat Abhiyan we need to focus on cleanliness which will attract the tourists.
2) Safety and Security: Safety and security of tourists has been a problem in India. Many times there are
incidents happened with foreign travellers which put India in bad light and it has impacted the tourism
badly. We need to provide security and safety to tourists. We need rapid action teams in tourist places,
24*7 helplines.

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3) Hospitality: In Hospitality India has good reputation but many times it has been seen the tourists are
looted and not behaved with properly.
Hospitality industry always face problem with taxes and we need to make comprehensive tourism policy.
4)Language Problem: Many tourist face the problem of interacting at tourists sites due to English which
should be the common language has not penetrated well. We need to sort out this language problem by
providing skills to people by trainings etc. and behaviour classes.
5) Indias Image: There are many incidents that keep happening in India which deteriorates the India's
image related to communalism, rapes etc.
We need to work on bettering India's reputation which has gone down and this can be bettered with the
help of all communities.
6) E-Services-E-Visas, e-ticketing, portals, single window systems will definitely help India and they need to
be enhanced.
7) Social Awareness campaigns: There are many campaigns run by ministries to make people aware of the
impact of bad and good behaviour with tourists, television can be used for that.
8) North-eastern Region- Connectivity on NE region needs to be enhanced and needs to be bettered. This
region has enormous potential which is yet not tapped for tourism
if all the above steps are taken in a comprehensive manner we will be able to help tourism industry proper
and it will also help India earning lot of revenue and increasing the income of many households.
4. Discuss why the Indian Ocean is considered as critical to the future of the world and India. (200 Words)
The Indian Express (to me, the blue chakra or wheel in Indias flag represents the potential of the
blue revolution, or the ocean economy)
Answer:
The only ocean of the world name after a Country is Indian Ocean.
Importance of Indian Ocean to World:
1. 70 percent of world trade from West to East and East to West.
2. Oil trade from Middle East to China, Japan, India, SE Asian countries
3. Polly metallic nodules at Ocean floor provide vital metals extraction sources from ocean.
4. Western powers involvement in security management against radical and fundamentalist Islamic groups
in and around Iraq.
5. All the sea lanes leading to the Indian Ocean, particularly the Suez Canal and the Straits of Malacca be
kept open at all the times.
Importance of Indian Ocean to India:
1. 7,500km coastline linking to Indian Ocean
2. 80% of Indias trade is through Sea route passes through Indian Ocean.
3. 85% of oil and gas imported through Indian Ocean into the country.
4. Fishing and tourism depends on it due to huge marine re-courses it spreads prosperity in coastal plains
of India.
5. Security of Country after 26/11 and recent 1st January2015 (mid-sea blast of fishing boat incident). No
industrial development, commercial growth, and stable political structure are possible unless our nations
shores are protected.
6. Vital for managing better relation with neighbours like Vietnam, , Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, SriLanka, Maldives, Seychelles, Mauritius, Iran, etc.

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To, maintain safer trade routes, and induce Energy Security for every party, India has recently pitched to
declare Indian Ocean Region as "Region of Peace" at Galle dialogue (2014-Sri-Lanka), which provides
enough reason that Indian Ocean is critical to India and the world.
5. As per recent news reports, the sugar industry of Uttar Pradesh is in deep crises. Critically examine the
roots of these crises and comment on them. (200 Words)
Business Standard (Uttar Pradesh's sugar industry faces its worst crisis)
Answer:
Sugar and Sugarcane comes under Essential Commodity Act, which makes any organisation trying to not
comply with Central and State govt rules for selling, buying, regularising the sugar related process as
criminal act. This act is not correct as per the liberalisations true essence. Its just tip of iceberg with which
Uttar Pradesh Sugar industry is suffering. Some root causes of these crises and remedies for them are:
(1.) There has been lot of control from State and Central govt like Fair Remunerative Price(FRP by Central
Govt) and State Administrative Price(SAP by State Govt) for sugar every year. Also,
(2.) By-Product obtained from sugar processing like Molasses, Bagasse and Press-mud has lower demand in
India. Only used cattle fodder. In western nations Molasses is used in fermentation, ethanol production.
Bagasse used for mulching, fodder, compressed fuel, organic manure, paper industry, plywood, cardboard
industries etc. Press mud for furniture. India doesnt have such mature market and industries to use.
Hence, it goes as waste or for fuel in sugar industry only to further pollutions. Hence, economic value is
lost.
(3.) Clause of Proximity of Mill (A mill can buy sugarcane only from 15kms proximity of its location),
Designated area (All farmers are asked to sell sugarcanes to closest mill). This kills competition and
competitive production. This clause should be removed to bring fair and transparent price system.
(4.) All Sugar mills must have to give 10% of their production to Central Govt which is diverted to State govt
for distributing through PDS. Delay in payments from Central govt leads to non-payment of labours etc.
(5.) Almost all Sugar mills in India are operating on decades back technology which is labour intensive.
Large Productions house and machineries are missing as what is used in US, Cuba and China. Govt should
provide subsidies for capital goods under EXIM policy for such machinery imports.
(6.) Export and Import of sugar is highly regulated by govt. This should be done away with.
(7.) Sugar must be packed in Jute bags only as per the Govt rule, to secure dying Jute industries. This costs
govt around 1000crores each year while Sugar mills also have to deal with shortage of such bags, such bags
is only 1-2 times usable. Such restrictions should be removed; instead govt should promote jute bags
instead of polyethene bags through media and campaigning.
(8.) Unavailability of bank loans because of already existing arrears. Sugar mills constitute largest part of
NPAs in UP and Bihar region. Cooperative structures should be encouraged where farmers and millers can
work out with workable plans and payment mechanism.
(9.) Strong Union leaders and politics involved also slows down the working.
Hence, there are many shortcomings in Sugar industries which need to be reformed to boost their growth
as they also provide jobs to rural populations and runs economy in UP, Bihar and Southern belt also.

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Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami,

Volcanic activity, cyclone etc. Geographical features and their location changes in critical geographical features (including waterbodies and
ice-caps) and in flora and fauna the effects of such changes
1. Critically discuss the effects of deforestation on Indian economy. (200 Words)
The Hindu (Deforestation hits monsoon rains, says study)
Answer:
Recent study which observed that deforestation in Northern mid attitudes has caused a decreased of 1/5th
of Monsoon in India, though rose moderately raining in Southern Hemisphere and Australia and South
Africa.
It is evident that Deforestation has the impact on the Indian economy, which still largely depends on the
Agriculture and Monsoon. Some of effects of deforestation are
~ Greater Pollution or carbon emission with no carbon capture increased the Health burden of the country
~Greater amount of funds will be diverted for the climate change , resilient crops which otherwise could
have helped in raising the incomes
~Monsoon plays key role in Monetary policy of RBI thus tight and dear economy may harm the market
sentiments Like after ELNINO ,ENSO
~Deforestation caused increased land pressure as more tribal becomes share croppers thus increasing of
lower strata in the economy
~Deforestation and Encroachment to natural resources like Wetlands etc. also causes disasters like Deluge
in Uttaranchal etc.
~Forest, tress preserve and withhold the nutrients in the soil. Absence causes greater use of fertiliser,
which is generally subsidised in India ~ 70k cr. subsidy
~Tourism and Aviation are also affected as, Eco tourism is affected, also Leads to job loss unemployment
etc. As cited in recent AAI report
~It also causes Change in rainfall, crop failure , pushing farmer s to migrate already stressed overburdened
cities , thereby causing slums , poor hygiene crime, prostitution ,social inequalities etc.
In sum depleting the Nature's wealth also decreased the Human and Economy Health.
2. Landslides have become frequent hazards in the Himalayan regions. Examine the causes of these
landslides and measures needed to mitigate them. (200 Words)
NCERT (Class VIII, Resources and Development, Chapter 2)
Answer:
The sudden movement of rock, debris or earth along the slope is called landslide.
The various causes of landslides area) Natural causes1. Landslides are generally associated with natural calamities like earthquake, volcanic eruptions, floods,
cloudburst, etc.
2. Long spell of rainfall
3. Loose soil cover and sloping terrain

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b) Anthropogenic causes1. Rapid urbanization and changes in land use patterns

2. Rampant deforestation and mining activities like blasting and quarrying, etc.
3. Increased industrialisation leading to climate change and weather disturbances
4. Change in river flow due to construction of dams, barriers, etc.
Various measures needed to mitigate them are1. Hazard mapping by demarcating areas prone to landslides and avoiding stress on those areas for
settlement
2. Construction of retention walls to avoid land from slipping
3. Increasing afforestation and vegetation cover
4. Practise measures to check soil erosion like terrace farming, contour ploughing, etc.
5. Implementing surface drainage control works to control the movement of landslide along with rain water
and spring flows.
6. Proper planning of developmental processes following sustainable methods.
3. Write a critical note on the effect of soil erosion on the environment and methods used in soil
conservation. (200 Words)
NCERT (Class VIII, Resources and Development, Chapter 2)
Answer:
Soil erosion and depletion are the major threats to soil as a resource.
Is has adverse effects on the environment like1. It affects the organic and inorganic nutrient content of the soil
2. The vegetation cover of an area is largely dependent on the soil quality.
3. The underground water percolation is also affected by soil erosion
4. The worn off soils get deposited in places thereby, blocking the natural flow of water sources and acting
as barriers by forming depositional landforms
5. Increase in water and air pollution due to suspended soil particles
Methods used in soil conservation are1. Constructing barriers like rock dams, shelter belts, etc. with rocks, stones, trees, grass, soil, etc.
2. Barren lands to be covered with green cover by afforestation, mulching, etc.
3. Implementing proper farming methods to reduce surface runoff like terrace farming, contour ploughing,
intercropping, etc.
4. Controlling animal grazing
5. Planned and sustainable methods of development and industrialization
Thus checking soil erosion is imperative for reducing its adverse effect on environment as well as checking
its degradation to conserve it as a resource.

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4. Write a critical note on river pollution in India and the measures taken by the Union government to
clean polluted rivers. (200 Words)
NCERT (Class IX, Contemporary India, Chapter 3)
Answer:
Water pollution not only pollutes water in general it has many adverse impacts on life of plants, animals,
humans health and wealth of country. Largest source of river pollution in India is untreated sewage,
agricultural runoff, and industrial effluents which makes the quality of rivers worse and makes Biological
Oxygen Demand higher in water and impacts marine plants and animals. Because of urbanisation and
industrialisation this process is being still worse to treat the effluents. Not only because of industrialised
mind-set even with conservative mind-set with name of cremations in rivers have makes polluted to the
peak.
Measures by Govt to clean rivers:
- Ganga action plan and Yamuna action plan.
- Namani Ganga.
- Under Swachh Bharat a massive cleanliness drives at banks of Sutlej River.
- Concern for sewage treatments and giving clearances to new sewage treatment plants.
- National Project on Organic Farming provides capital investment subsidy for commercial production units
for manufacturing organic fertilizers / bio-fertilizers which helps in less use of fertilizers which pollute the
rivers.
Its not only of the Govt's role to draw policies to stop all the river pollution at one go, its about bringing
awareness campaigns, short films on pollution and dramas in rural areas, strict punishment and penalties
on violations and change of behavioural mind-set of public to save our rivers for our generations in
sustainable way makes Indias dream a real.
5. How different is the flora of Western Himalayas from that of Eastern Himalayas? Explain the reasons
behind these differences. (150 Words)
India 2015; Chapter 1 (Land and the People)
Answer:
Flora of any place is the direct expression of the climate of the place which in turn depend on latitudinal
location, rainfall, insolation, soil etc. due to these floral characteristics of eastern and western Himalayas
differ; for instance1) eastern Himalayas has high rainfall which result in evergreen coniferous trees however in the western
one having the temperate deciduous e.g. - birch.
2) Also, the eastern region is having more humidity than the western one so tree leaves are generally broad
and flora variation is more visible.
3) The snow line in the western Himalayas in lower than the eastern one because of latitudinal location.
Thus alpine shrubs occur at relatively lower height.
4) Ardent (southern slopes in n-hemisphere) effect is more visible in the western most part of the
Himalayas than the eastern ones (due to alignment), moreover the eastern Himalaya is more complex
structurally and soil is highly eroded whereas western part is having karewa deposits. This results in distinct
flora variation. For e.g. flower valleys and saffron agri. of western parts.
This difference aptly represents the altitude mimics latitude concept and can only be appreciated in the
physical presence.

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6. Examine the dangers that Indias agriculture face from climate change effects. In your opinion, what
strategies need to be adopted by various stakeholders to minimise or mitigate adverse effects of climate
change? Examine. (200 Words)
Business Standard (Climate change costs)
Answer:
---The increasing average temperature of the world every year and the untimely rainfalls in the country,
have laid waste to the crops of farmers all over the country, numerous times.
---The various adverse effects include:
1. Higher temperature eventually reduces yields of desirable crops while encouraging weed and pest
proliferation.
2. Changes in precipitation patterns increase the likelihood of short-run crop failures and long-run
production declines.
3. The lesser supply of food crops during such time, leads to poverty in the farm sector, which renders the
farmers unable to buy fertilisers or afford maintenance of farming equipment, which further declines the
food production in the next farming season, leading to a vicious cycle.
4. The high temperature also affects the nutrition composition of the staple crops, worsening the health
situation in the country, with lesser nutrition per unit food grain.
---The various strategies that can be adopted are:
1. Maintaining a sufficiently large buffer stock, to feed the country and stop food inflation in case of crop
failure. As this is already done, the shortcoming lies in its manner of storage, where food becomes rotten in
the storage houses. This should be prevented.
2. Providing adequate irrigation facilities in rain fed areas of country, to provide alternate source of water
in case of drought situation.
3. Investing in R&D to generate more drought resistant varieties of vegetables and other crops, and selling
them at an affordable price to farmers.
4. Diversifying crop production to adjust to changing temperature and precipitation patterns
5. Adopting water and soil moisture conservation measures that minimize the impact of potential seasonal
water shortages
---Such measures can help in making the agricultural sector more immune to the rapid seasonal changes
and also reduce the subsidy burden on the govt subsequently.
7. According to the UNs Food and Agriculture Organisation, the world on average has just 60 more years
of growing crops. This is because of degradation of soil health around the world. Critically examine the
importance of soil to humans, causes of their degradation and urgent measures needed to revive their
health. (200 Words)
The Hindu (Treating soil like dirt is a fatal mistake)
Answer:
[1]
---Soil is the most crucial component of human life, as it provides food and decomposes biological waste
into nutrients for new plant life. Every raw material in the form of ore, required to build the concrete giants
and other machines, are obtained from the soil bed and below.

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---But since long back, humans have indulged in various practices, which have led to the degradation of
quality of soil. These activities include:
1. Unregulated disposal of plastic waste. A large pile of plastic waste at a place poisons the land and
renders the surrounding area too as unfit for plantation.
2. Excessive use of chemical fertilisers/ pesticides degrades the quality of soil and decreases its fertility with
time.
3. Excessive deforestation and overgrazing also makes the soil prone to erosion through soil and wind
agents, which erode the upper fertile layer of the soil.
4. Shifting cultivation without long enough fallow period, also leads to degradation of a large part of land,
as the burnt fodder renders the land infertile for a long time.
5. Population explosion and poverty puts more burden on the nations land, and uneducated farmers use
chemicals in bulk to increase fertility, which harm the soil in long run.
---Measures of soil conservation:
1. Educating the farmers is vital for increasing the yield and fertility of the soil, regarding the type of crops
which can be grown in a given climate and use of organic fertilisers, which are both economic and lesser
harmful to the soil.
2. Strict actions to be taken against reckless felling of trees.
3. Contour ploughing is another measure to conserve our land. By this method, the fields are ploughed,
harrowed and sown along the natural contour.
4. Practice of crop rotation should be encouraged, with which the nutrients of soil are maintained by itself
by the farming process.
---The govt should promote such strategies expeditiously, so as to protect the interest of the future
generations, because on the day when all land lays waste, we will realise that we cannot eat money.
[2]
UN's FAO report shown that world on average has just 60more years for growing crops. The main reason
behind it is degradation of soil health. Soil is important in sustenance of life on earth. Since,
1.It is required to produce food via plants, trees,
2.continuation of food chain and,
3.balance of cycles (Ex: water, nitrogen, carbon dioxide) etc. little attention has been paid on it.
Soil is degrading due to several reasons like:
1.Excessive tilling: tillage is common agriculture practice to plant and grow crops and leads to loosen the
soil layers,
2.Excessive seepage: improper drainage leads to water logging, there by leaches out important nutrients
from soil,
3.Excessive and unnecessary usage of fertilizers
4.Flash floods, winds and deforestation
5.Monopoly of single crops like rice, wheat and absence of crop rotation etc..
To revive soil health, following measures can be applied:
1.Measurement of soil health and corrective usage of bio fertilizers,
2.Crop rotation including soil forming plantations,
3.Avoidance of soil tillage, it is possible with latest developments (ex: some Australians developed crops
with zero tillage in alps),
4.Increased research and following employment of aeroponics, hydroponics and zero tillage techniques

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etc.
Treatment of soil should be changed from dirt to divine, then only food and life security exists.
8. China has more than 26,000 large dams, more than the rest of the world combined. Recently concerns
have been expressed about the ecological cost of these dams, especially in the Tibet region. Critically
examine the issue. (200 Words)
The New York Times (The Price of Damming Tibets Rivers)
Answer:
[1]
While generation of power through hydro-projects is a non-polluting, renewable and long term way of
meeting large scales energy demand. However it comes with some additional cost to ecology, environment
and mankind. Chinese streak of developing large number of dams especially in vulnerable areas like Tibet
will inadvertently depict it.
- Chinese government plans to build large number of dams on rivers of Tibet including Salween and
Brahmaputra. The objective is to generate energy and also diversion of river water for industries outside
Tibet.
- This will impact not only the natural flow of the river but the flora and fauna dependent on the river. The
dams will restrict fish migration, availability of water downstream on which large number of people and
wildlife depends.
- Building of dams at such great height, especially a region which is prone to earthquake poses an ecological
risk of floods also.
- Most importantly building dams will stop flow of silt and other minerals required for soil building in flood
plains where agriculture is practised, and diversion will restrict water availability. Such a big food crisis inmaking along with human crisis. Also it will lead to large scale displacement of people.
Chinese government should neither compromise with interest of Tibet people nor go for any unsustainable
way of generating energy. If it wants to explore Hydro-power it should promote small scale plants which
will be ecologically, environmentally and human friendly. This way balanced and long term sustainable
energy projects can be initiated.
[Comments]
Want to add a point:
The Tibet region directly and indirectly influences the climate of the subcontinent via the numerous rivers
and glaciers originating there. Alterations with this geographically critical area would have direct effects on
weather patterns of the subcontinent like disturbance in Monsoons, thereby putting in jeopardy, the
economy and climate of a number of countries in the region.
[2]
Environment has become the subject in all areas of development due to rising climates, melting polar caps,
floods, and disturbances in agricultural yields. Humans witnessing unprecedented natural and manmade
calamities and Building heavy infrastructure in ecologically sensitive regions is a major reason among them.
Chinese constructing dams all over the country can have multifaceted impact on ecosystems and
biospheres.

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1. Dams are obstructing the continuous flow of sediments, fishs movement, and silt causing changes in
geomorphological processes and also deserting the low-lying areas or flooding due to sudden release of
water.
2. Heavy construction causing tectonic disturbances in the regions causing damage.
3. Dams in forests, hills disturbing the flora and fauna of the region and the further causing vulnerability to
endangered and exotic species.
4. International conflicts or concerns like dam construction over Tsangpo River between China and India.
5. Loss of livelihood to indigenous and aboriginals in some areas due to construction activity and land
acquisition.
6. Change in distribution of water, fish will hamper the natural ecosystems and may impact the food chains
and diversity of the habitats.
Construction of dams must be for the welfare of the people with its advantages outweighing disadvantages
and not vice versa. It is the word 'Infrastructure' becoming derogatory in the name of just economic growth
without regard to the ecosystem which is life blood for human sustenance and there is an urgent need to
see it through sustainable aspects.

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