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 General Studies Paper 1

Subject/Year 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 Total
Art and Culture 3 1 4 1 3 2 2 2 3 3 32
Modern History 2 3 2 2 1 3 4 2 5 3 27
Post-independence India 1 0 0 1 2 3 0 0 0 5 12
World History 0 2 0 1 0 1 1 2 5 4 16
Indian Society 7 6 6 7 10 5 5 6 4 6 61
Geography 7 8 8 8 4 6 8 8 8 12 75

1
ART & CULTURE

2
 2022

Q1. How will you explain the medieval Indian temple sculptures represent the social life of
those days? (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Write about the vivid representation showcased by the Indian temple
sculpture in brief.
● Body:
➢ Mention the characteristics of Medieval Indian Temple Sculptures that portray the
social life of those days.
➢ Add examples to substantiate your arguments.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion mentioning medieval Indian society, offering a
unique perspective on the lives and experiences of the people.
Introduction:
The medieval Indian temple sculptures offer a vivid representation of the social life during that
period, encapsulating various aspects of daily existence, cultural practices, and societal hierarchy.
These sculptures, carved intricately on temple walls, pillars, and other architectural elements,
provide a valuable insight into the lives of people from different strata of society.
Body:
The medieval Indian temple sculptures represent the social life of those days:
● Testament to the Social hierarchy of the time: At the Brihadeshwara Temple in
Thanjavur, sculptures of kings and nobles display intricate jewelry, while commoners are
shown with simpler attire, illustrating social hierarchy in medieval India.
● Architectural Styles: The varied architectural styles of temples, influenced by regional and
dynastic preferences, demonstrate the diversity of cultural expressions across medieval
India. For example: The Kailasa Temple at Ellora, Maharashtra demonstrates unique
rock-cut architecture.
● Significance of Political power: The Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, Karnataka,
contains intricate carvings of rulers and warriors, underlining the significance of political
power and martial prowess.
● Depiction of various Occupations: The Sun Temple at Konark, Odisha features scenes
of occupations like potters, blacksmiths, and weavers, illustrating the importance of these
professions in medieval India.
● Religious Syncretism: Religious syncretism in medieval India is evident in Elephanta
Caves, which display both Hindu and Buddhist themes, reflecting the blending of local
customs and beliefs.
● The Role of Women: Sculptures depicting women as dancers and musicians highlight their
involvement in cultural activities and their importance in medieval Indian society. For
example: Khajuraho Temples' sculptures of women participating in music and dance
underscore their significance in medieval India's cultural life.
● Social Reforms and Movements: Sculptures offer insights into social reforms and
movements of the time, like the Bhakti and Sufi movements. For example: Inscriptions at
Virupaksha Temple in Hampi emphasize the temple's role in promoting social reforms like
the Bhakti movement and religious harmony.
● Education and Knowledge: Sculptures of sages and scholars emphasize the importance of
education, as seen in Nalanda University's temples as centers for intellectual activity.
● Animals and Nature: Depictions of flora and fauna, like those at Sanchi Stupa,
represent biodiversity and the close relationship between humans and nature in medieval
society.

Conclusion:
Medieval Indian temple sculptures offer a visual record of social life, reflecting cultural and societal
aspects of the era. Examples from various temples showcase diverse themes and styles, revealing
the complexity and richness of medieval Indian society.

3
Q2. Discuss the main contributions of Gupta period and Chola period to Indian heritage
and culture. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the Gupta and Chola periods as influential eras in Indian history.
● Body: Discuss contributions of each period in:
➢ Art and Architecture
➢ Sculpture
➢ Literature
➢ Science (Gupta)/Music and Dance (Chola)
➢ Education (Gupta)/Governance (Chola)
● Conclusion: Conclude with the lasting impact of Gupta and Chola periods on India's
cultural heritage.
Introduction:
The Gupta and Chola periods, often considered golden ages, significantly shaped India's cultural
heritage. Their contributions spanned art, architecture, literature, and science, with enduring
legacies that continue to influence and inspire the nation today, showcasing India's rich cultural
diversity.
Body:
Listed below are the significant contributions made by each dynasty to the country's
heritage and culture:
Gupta Period (circa 320-550 CE):

1. Art and Architecture: The Guptas built iconic temples, like the Dashavatara Temple
and the Parvati Temple. They also pioneered the Nagara style of architecture,
characterized by beehive-shaped towers (Shikharas) and intricate carvings.
2. Sculpture: Gupta sculptures, known for their grace and fluidity, are exemplified by the
Sarnath Buddha and the Bala Bodhisattva.
3. Literature: Sanskrit literature flourished during this era, with Kalidasa's works
(Abhijnanasakuntalam, Meghaduta) and Vishnu Sharma's Panchatantra being prime
examples.
4. Science and Mathematics: Scholars like Aryabhata and Varahamihira made
groundbreaking advancements in astronomy, mathematics, and medicine. The concept
of zero and the decimal system were developed during this time.
5. Education: The ancient universities of Nalanda and Vikramshila emerged as centers of
learning, attracting scholars from across Asia.

Chola Period (circa 9th-13th century CE):

1. Art and Architecture: The Cholas were known for their Dravidian-style temple
architecture, exemplified by the Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur, which boasts the
world's tallest vimana. The Chola-era temples at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram
are other notable examples.
2. Sculpture: Chola bronze sculptures, including the famous Nataraja and the
Ardhanarishvara, are renowned for their beauty and craftsmanship, reflecting the mastery
of the lost-wax casting technique.
3. Literature: The Chola period witnessed a flourishing of Tamil literature, with the works of
Kamban (Ramavataram) and the compilation of the Periya Puranam by Sekkizhar.
4. Music and Dance: The Cholas patronized music and dance, evident in the inscriptions and
sculptures at their temples. The Thanjavur Brihadeshwara Temple has numerous
depictions of musicians and dancers, indicating the significance of performing arts in
Chola society.
5. Administration and Governance: The Cholas introduced an efficient system of local
self-governance, with the Ur and Sabha acting as village assemblies, providing a model
for later dynasties.

Conclusion:
The Gupta and Chola periods left significant marks on Indian heritage and culture. While the
Gupta Empire focused on education and science, the Chola Dynasty emphasized art and

4
governance. Their lasting legacies continue to influence and inspire modern India, highlighting the
country's cultural diversity and showcasing their contributions to India's heritage.

Q3. Discuss the significance of the lion and bull figures in Indian mythology, art and
architecture. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the significance of the lion and bull figures in Indian culture.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the symbolic value, mythology, and depiction of the lion figure in Indian
culture.
➢ Discuss the symbolic value, mythology, and depiction of the bull figure in Indian
culture.
➢ Highlight the extensive use of lion and bull figures in Indian art and architecture.
➢ Emphasize how their presence in Indian culture reflects deep-rooted traditions and
beliefs.
● Conclusion: Summarize the main points of the answer. Also, reiterate the significance of the
lion and bull figures in Indian culture.
Introduction:
The lion and bull figures have played an important role in Indian mythology, art, and architecture
for centuries. Both animals have a significant symbolic value and are often depicted in various
forms of art and architecture.
Body:
The Lion as a Sign of Power and Royalty in India:
● Considered as the king of the jungle and symbolizes strength, courage, and ferocity.
● Mount of Goddess Durga and Lord Vishnu in Indian mythology.
● Depicted as a symbol of power and royalty.
● For example: Ashoka pillar featuring four lions sitting back to back, symbolizing
power, courage, and confidence.

The Bull as a Symbol of Fertility and Prosperity in India:

● Considered as a symbol of fertility, abundance, and strength.
● Associated with Lord Shiva, who is often depicted riding on a bull called Nandi.
● Nandi is worshiped as the gatekeeper of Lord Shiva's abode.
● Symbolizes agriculture and prosperity.
● For example: Used for ploughing fields and became a symbol of fertility and prosperity.

Significance of the lion and bull figures in Indian mythology, art and architecture:
●
In Indian art and architecture, both the lion and bull figures have been used extensively.
●
For example, the famous Khajuraho temples feature several sculptures of lions and
bulls. The intricate carvings depict various forms of the animals, including their strength,
ferocity, and grace.
● Moreover, several forts and palaces in India feature lion and bull sculptures, which were
used to signify the power and might of the rulers.
● For example, the Red Fort in Delhi features several lion sculptures on its walls and
gateways. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur features several bull sculptures on its walls and
gateways.
Conclusion:
Both animals symbolize strength, power, and prosperity and have been used extensively in various
forms of art and architecture. Their presence in Indian culture reflects the deep-rooted traditions
and beliefs that have been passed down through generations.

5
 2021
Q1. Evaluate the nature of the Bhakti Literature and its contribution to Indian culture.
(150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the concept of Bhakti Literature in India and its significance.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the nature of Bhakti Literature, including its focus on individual devotion,
simple language, and emotional attachment to the divine.
➢ Highlight the contribution of Bhakti Literature to Indian culture, including its role
in promoting religious harmony, social equality, and cultural diversity.
➢ Provide examples of how Bhakti Literature influenced various art forms and
philosophical and spiritual traditions.
● Conclusion: Conclude by reiterating the significance of Bhakti Literature in Indian culture
and its continuing legacy.
Introduction:
Bhakti Literature is a significant part of Indian culture that emerged during the medieval period. It
refers to a collection of devotional texts written in various Indian languages by poets and saints
who advocated the path of devotion to attain the divine. The nature of Bhakti Literature is
characterized by its intense emotional appeal, simplicity, and accessibility to the masses.
Body:
Nature of Bhakti Literature:
● It emphasized the importance of individual devotion and personal experience over
external rituals and traditions.
● Its content focused on expressing devotion to a personal god, usually in the vernacular
language of the region.
● It was often written in simple and accessible language, making it popular among the
masses.
● It included poems, hymns, and narratives that conveyed a sense of intimacy and
emotional attachment to the divine.

Contribution of Bhakti Literature to Indian culture:

● Promoting Religious Harmony and Unity: Bhakti Literature emphasized the oneness of
all religions and their ultimate goal of attaining the divine. For example: The poems of
Kabir and Guru Nanak promoted religious harmony and unity.
● Facilitating the Spread of Regional Languages and Literature: Bhakti Literature used
local languages to compose devotional texts, facilitating the spread of regional languages
and literature. For example: The Bhakti movement in Tamil Nadu led to the development
of Tamil literature and language.
● Promoting Social Equality: Bhakti Literature challenged the hierarchical caste system in
India by advocating for the equality of all individuals. For example: The poems of Kabir
and Mirabai advocated for the equality of all individuals.
● Inspiring Various Art Forms: Bhakti Literature inspired various art forms such as music,
dance, and painting. For example: The bhajans and kirtans associated with the Bhakti
movement inspired classical Indian music and dance forms such as Bharatanatyam
and Kathak.
● Influencing Philosophical and Spiritual Traditions: Bhakti Literature influenced
philosophical and spiritual traditions such as Advaita Vedanta, which emphasized the
oneness of all beings. For example: The Bhakti movement influenced the development
of Sant Mat, a spiritual philosophy that emphasizes meditation and the inner journey.
Conclusion:
Bhakti Literature's nature is characterized by its intense emotional appeal, simplicity, and
accessibility. Its contribution to Indian culture is significant as it promoted religious harmony,
social equality, and cultural unity. Its influence can be seen in various aspects of Indian culture,
and it continues to inspire and influence people to this day.

6
 2020
Q1. The rock-cut architecture represents one of the most important sources of our
knowledge of early Indian art and history. Discuss. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the significance of rock-cut architecture in Indian art and
history.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the origins and evolution of rock-cut architecture in India, including the
various types of structures and their unique features.
➢ Provide examples of significant rock-cut structures, such as the Ajanta and Ellora
caves, the Kailashnath temple at Ellora, and the Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves.
Emphasize the role of rock-cut architecture in showcasing the development of
various religions and cultures in ancient India, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and
Jainism.
● Conclusion: Sum up the main points and emphasize the significance of rock-cut
architecture in preserving and promoting India's rich cultural heritage.
Introduction:
Rock-cut architecture is a significant aspect of Indian art and history, representing one of the most
important sources of our knowledge of early Indian civilization. The art of carving out temples,
shrines, and other structures from rocks dates back to ancient times and is found in various parts
of the country.
Body:
The origins of rock-cut architecture can be traced back to the 2nd century BC, during the
Mauryan Empire, when Emperor Ashoka commissioned several rock-cut edicts across India. The
art form evolved over the centuries, with each region developing its unique style and techniques.
● Promotion of Religious Harmony and Unity: Rock-cut architecture showcased religious
harmony and unity, as seen in the rock-cut temples of Ellora, which integrated Hindu,
Buddhist, and Jain religions in India.
● Facilitation of the Spread of Regional Art and Architecture: Rock-cut architecture
spread regional art and architecture by incorporating local styles and techniques. For
example, Ajanta's rock-cut caves express regional art and architecture in paintings,
sculptures, and frescoes from the 2nd century BCE to 6th century CE.
● Promotion of Social Equality: Rock-cut architecture promoted social equality by allowing
access to religious structures to people from all social classes. For instance, the rock-cut
temples of Elephanta showcased the equal participation of people from different
backgrounds in the construction and use of the temple.
● Inspiration for Various Art Forms: Rock-cut architecture inspired art forms such as
sculpture and painting. The Badami caves, built during 6th-8th centuries CE,
influenced regional art and architecture.
● Influence on Philosophical and Spiritual Traditions: Rock-cut architecture influenced
Buddhism and Jainism, emphasizing renunciation. Karla caves reflect Buddhist
philosophy of detachment and renunciation.
Conclusion:
Rock-cut architecture has not only contributed to the artistic and cultural heritage of India but
also provided valuable insights into the social and economic life of ancient India. The preservation
and promotion of these structures remain important in preserving India's rich cultural heritage for
future generations.

Q2. Indian Philosophy and tradition played a significant role in conceiving and shaping the
monuments and their art in India. Discuss. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

7
Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the role of Indian philosophy and tradition in shaping the
monuments and their art in India.
● Body: Elaborate on specific examples, architectural styles, and art forms influenced by
Indian philosophy and tradition.
● Conclusion: Summarize the significance of Indian philosophy and tradition in creating a
unique and enduring architectural legacy in India.
Introduction:
Indian philosophy and tradition have played a pivotal role in shaping the country's architectural
and artistic heritage. The rich cultural tapestry of India, with its diverse belief systems and regional
variations, has given rise to a myriad of unique styles, themes, and iconography throughout the
country's monuments and art.
Body:

● Spiritual and religious influences: Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism have contributed
to the architectural landscape, such as the Ajanta and Ellora caves, which showcase
religious art and architecture with intricate carvings and sculptures from Indian scriptures
and mythologies.
● Temple architecture: Hindu temple architecture evolved with regional styles and diverse
philosophies. The Nagara, Dravidian, and Vesara styles exemplify this evolution, as
seen in the Kailasa Temple at Ellora and the Meenakshi Amman Temple in Tamil
Nadu, featuring gopurams adorned with colorful sculptures.
● Indo-Islamic architecture: The blend of Indian and Islamic architectural styles emerged
with Islamic rulers in India. Examples include the Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb, and
the Red Fort in Delhi, where Indian motifs and craftsmanship are combined with
Islamic geometric patterns and calligraphy.
● Cave Architecture: Exploration of the influence of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain philosophies
on cave architecture, as seen in the Chaityas and Viharas in the Ajanta Caves, and the
Elephanta Caves.
● Gandhara and Mathura Schools of Art: The role of Indian philosophy in shaping the
Hellenistic Gandhara School and the indigenous Mathura School.
● Vastu Shastra: This ancient Indian architectural science emphasizes harmony with nature
and the cosmos, leading to aesthetically pleasing and functionally efficient structures, such
as the Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu.
● Iconography and symbolism: The artistic expressions in the form of intricate carvings,
frescoes etc. convey deeper meanings and stories, as seen in the Sun Temple in Konark,
Odisha, where carvings depict scenes from Indian mythology and daily life.
Conclusion:
Indian philosophy and tradition have been instrumental in shaping the country's monuments and
their art. The diverse religious, cultural, and artistic influences have led to the creation of a rich
architectural heritage that stands as a testament to India's complex history and cultural identity.

Q3. Persian literary sources of medieval India reflect the spirit of the age. Comment. (250
words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the importance of Persian literary sources in medieval
India and their role in reflecting the spirit of the age.
● Body: Discuss various aspects of Persian literature, including historical accounts, poetry,
Sufi literature, and translations, and how they captured the political, social, cultural, and
spiritual dimensions of the period.
● Conclusion: Summarize the significance of Persian literary sources in fostering cross-
cultural exchange and showcasing the diverse and syncretic nature of medieval Indian
society.
Introduction:
During medieval India, Persian literary sources emerged as vital elements in capturing the zeitgeist
of the age. With the establishment of Islamic rule in the region, Persian became the language of
governance, courtly life, and culture, leading to the development of a rich and varied body of
literature. This literature not only mirrored the political, social, and cultural realities of the period,

8
but also served as a crucial bridge, connecting the Indian and Persian cultural spheres and
fostering a unique synthesis between them.
Body:
● Historical accounts:
➢ Persian historical works, including Minhaj-i Siraj's "Tabaqat-i Nasiri," Firishta's
"Tarikh-i Firishta," and Abu'l Fazl's "Akbarnama," offer crucial insights into
medieval India's political, social, and economic landscape.
➢ These accounts detail the accomplishments of Islamic rulers, administrative
complexities, and the interactions among different regions and communities.
● Poetry:
➢ During medieval India, Persian poetry thrived with notable poets such as Amir
Khusrau, Hafiz, and Jami. Their works blended Indian elements, languages, and
cultural nuances, reflecting the era's syncretic nature.
➢ This poetry encapsulated the spirit of the time through themes of love, devotion, and
human experiences in a concise manner.
● Sufi literature:
➢ The expansion of Sufism during medieval India resulted in a vast collection of
Persian Sufi literature, offering glimpses into the era's spiritual and mystical
aspects.
➢ Texts such as Rumi's "Masnavi" and Hafez's "Divan-i-Hafez" integrated Sufi
principles and doctrines, advocating for values like love, tolerance, and
introspection.
● Translation and adaptation:
➢ Persian literary sources contributed to the preservation and dissemination of
knowledge between cultures.
➢ Numerous Sanskrit texts, including the "Mahabharata" (translated as
"Razmnama"), "Panchatantra," and assorted scientific and mathematical works,
were translated into Persian.
➢ This process enabled cross-cultural interactions and enhanced the intellectual
milieu of medieval India.
Conclusion:
Persian literary sources of medieval India played a pivotal role in capturing the essence of the era.
These sources, encompassing historical accounts, poetry, Sufi literature, and translations, depicted
the political, social, cultural, and spiritual aspects of the period. By fostering cross-cultural
exchange, they not only enriched the intellectual landscape of medieval India but also highlighted
the diverse and syncretic nature of its society. Thus, these Persian literary sources stand as a
testament to the vibrant and dynamic spirit of medieval India.

2019
Q1. Highlight the Central Asian and Greco Bactrian elements in the Gandhara art. (150
words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce Gandhara art and its unique fusion of Indian, Central
Asian, and Greco-Bactrian elements.
● Body: Discuss the various aspects of Gandhara art that showcase the Central Asian and
Greco-Bactrian influences, including Hellenistic influence, depictions of Buddha,
architectural elements, motifs and iconography, and materials and techniques.
● Conclusion: Sum up the significance of Gandhara art as an example of cultural exchange
and the blending of artistic traditions from different regions.
Introduction:
Gandhara art is known for its unique blend of Indian, Central Asian, and Greco-Bactrian elements.
This syncretic art form emerged as a result of cultural interactions during the conquests of
Alexander the Great, the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom, and the Kushan Empire.
Body:
● Hellenistic influence: Gandhara art features Greco-Bactrian elements such as realistic
human proportions, naturalistic facial expressions, and intricate drapery. For example,

9
 the standing Buddha statues from Gandhara exhibit Hellenistic drapery and lifelike facial
expressions.
● Depictions of Buddha: The anthropomorphic representation of Buddha in Gandhara art
displays Greco-Bactrian influence, evident in the Buddha's wavy hair, topknot, and facial
features. The Fasting Buddha is an example of this influence.
● Architectural elements: Gandhara's architectural features, like the use of Corinthian
capitals in Buddhist stupas and monasteries, show Central Asian and Greco-Bactrian
influence. For example, The Dharmarajika Stupa in Taxila is an example
● Motifs and iconography: Gandhara art incorporates motifs and iconography from Greco-
Bactrian and Central Asian cultures, such as mythological figures and scenes from Greek
and Central Asian mythology. For instance, the sculptures of Atlas supporting the
Buddha's throne and depictions of Hercules.
● Materials and techniques: Gandhara art utilized materials like grey schist and stucco,
reflecting the influence of Central Asian and Greco-Bactrian cultures. For instance, the
Bimaran casket, made of gold and encrusted with jewels.

Conclusion:
Gandhara art serves as a testament to the rich cultural exchanges and blending of artistic
traditions from India, Central Asia, and the Greco-Bactrian region. The unique fusion of these
elements in Gandhara art exemplifies the syncretic nature of the period and highlights the
interconnectedness of different cultures in the creation of enduring artistic expressions.

2018
Q1. Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the moment. Comment (150 words,
10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly highlight the significance of India's artistic heritage and its role in
preserving the nation's cultural essence.
● Body: Discuss the numerous threats facing Indian art heritage and explain why its
protection is vital. Mention the steps that can be undertaken to conserve and promote
Indian art heritage.
● Conclusion: Emphasize the necessity of safeguarding and fostering Indian art heritage for
future generations.
Introduction:
India's artistic heritage, reflecting its diverse cultural identity through painting, sculpture,
architecture, and performing arts, is deeply rooted in historical and social contexts. Protecting this
legacy is essential to preserving India's unique cultural essence and enabling future generations to
appreciate and learn from these art forms.
Body:
There are various challenges and threats to Indian Art Heritage. For example, neglect,
environmental factors, urbanization, theft, and vandalism, which can lead to the deterioration
or loss of invaluable cultural treasures.
The cases of stolen idols from temples in Tamil Nadu and the plunder of ancient artifacts
from archaeological sites highlight the urgency of safeguarding India's art heritage.
However, Safeguarding Indian Art Heritage is of utmost importance as:
● Preserves cultural legacy: Maintains a connection to the past and contributes to India's
unique cultural identity.
● Fosters identity and pride: Strengthens national pride and understanding of shared
cultural values and history.
● Promotes tourism and economic growth: Attracts tourists and contributes to India's
economy.
● Encourages intercultural understanding: Promotes cultural exchange and tolerance
among diverse communities.
● Inspires future generations: Ensures continuity and connection to cultural roots, fostering
the development of new art forms.

10
Various measures can be taken for safeguarding Indian art heritage:
● Strengthening legal frameworks: Enhancing existing laws and regulations, and
introducing new measures to protect art heritage from theft, trafficking, and vandalism.
● Restoration and preservation: Allocating resources to restore and maintain art heritage
sites, monuments, and artifacts, ensuring their long-lasting conservation, such as the
ongoing conservation efforts at the Sun Temple, Konark.
● Financial assistance: Providing funding and resources to support artists, artisans, and
organizations involved in preserving and promoting Indian art heritage.
● Cooperation: Encouraging collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and local
communities to collectively protect and promote Indian art heritage. For example, the ASI
(Archaeological Survey of India) partnering with private organizations like the Aga
Khan Trust for Culture to restore Humayun's Tomb in Delhi.
● Raising awareness and education: Increasing public understanding of the importance of
preserving Indian art heritage and incorporating Indian art and culture studies into
educational programs.
Conclusion:
The need for protecting Indian art heritage is undeniably pressing. It is imperative to take unified
efforts at various levels to make certain that this rich heritage is bequeathed to future generations,
enabling them to value, learn from, and be inspired by the artistic achievements of their forebears.
Recent efforts, such as the retrieval of stolen artifacts from the USA, demonstrate the importance of
international cooperation in safeguarding India's art heritage. Strengthening such collaborations,
along with implementing robust domestic strategies, will ensure the preservation and promotion of
India's artistic legacy for generations to come.

Q2. The Bhakti movement received a remarkable re-orientation with the advent of Sri
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Discuss. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Begin with a brief overview of the Bhakti movement and the role of Sri
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in transforming it, especially in Eastern India.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the introduction of "Sankirtan" and its impact on promoting spiritual unity
and fellowship.
➢ Explain how Sri Chaitanya's teachings broke down caste, gender, and social
barriers.
➢ Describe the amalgamation of various Bhakti traditions and the reconciliation of
dualistic and non-dualistic perspectives through "Achintya Bheda Abheda."
➢ Discuss the contributions of Sri Chaitanya's followers, including the Six Goswamis
of Vrindavan, in producing and enriching Bhakti literature.
● Conclusion: Summarize the significant impact of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu on the
Bhakti movement and highlight the lasting influence of his teachings on spiritual love and
devotion.

Introduction:
The Bhakti movement, which originated in South India around the 7th century, spread throughout
the Indian subcontinent, emphasizing personal spiritual experiences through love and devotion to
God. Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a 16th-century saint, brought about a remarkable
transformation in the Bhakti movement, particularly in Eastern India.
Body:

● Focus on group devotion: Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu introduced "Sankirtan," the

collective chanting of God's holy names. This practice engaged individuals from diverse
backgrounds in communal worship, fostering spiritual unity and fellowship.
● Inclusiveness: Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's teachings were based on the principle that
God's love is accessible to all, regardless of caste, gender, or social standing. This
inclusiveness attracted a large number of followers from diverse backgrounds and helped
spread the Bhakti movement across India.
● Integration of Bhakti traditions: Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu amalgamated various Bhakti
traditions, creating a harmonious blend of devotional paths and philosophies. His doctrine
of "Achintya Bheda Abheda" reconciled dualistic and non-dualistic perspectives.

11
 ● Encouragement of devotional literature: Followers of Sri Chaitanya, including the Six
Goswamis of Vrindavan, produced a wealth of devotional works such as songs, poems, and
philosophical writings. Works like "Bhakti-rasamrita-sindhu" by Rupa Goswami and
"Chaitanya Charitamrita" by Krishnadasa Kaviraja Goswami enriched the Bhakti
literature and guided devotees in their spiritual journeys.
● Emphasis on divine love: Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's teachings placed a strong
emphasis on divine love as the ultimate goal of human life, which inspired countless
individuals to pursue a life of devotion and service to God.

Conclusion:
The advent of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu significantly impacted the Bhakti movement,
emphasizing communal devotion, inclusiveness, the merging of various Bhakti traditions, and the
nurturing of devotional literature. His teachings and practices continue to influence and unite
millions of followers in their pursuit of spiritual love and devotion.

2017
Q1. How do you justify the view that the level of excellence of the Gupta numismatic art is
not at all noticeable in later times? (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Provide a brief introduction to the history of numismatics and the Gupta
Empire's significance as a "Golden Age" of Indian history.
● Body:
➢ Explain the level of excellence achieved by the Gupta numismatic art.
➢ Discuss the decline in quality seen in coins from later periods.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.
Introduction:
The Gupta Empire (4th-6th century CE) is considered the "Golden Age" of Indian history,
showcasing remarkable achievements in art, literature, and science. Numismatic art, the design
and aesthetics of coins, reached its zenith during this era, as evidenced by the intricate and
exquisite craftsmanship of Gupta coins. Unfortunately, this exceptional level of artistic
refinement was not maintained in the numismatic art of subsequent periods.
Body:
The Gupta numismatic art exhibited an extraordinary level of excellence:
● Representation of socio-political events: Gupta coins showcased dynastic successions
and important socio-political events like horse sacrifices and marriage alliances, while
earlier coins only depicted emperors in martial poses such as archers, lion-slayers, or
horse-riders.
● Portrayal of various deities: A variety of gods and goddesses, including Durga, Lakshmi,
Ganga, and Garuda, were depicted on the reverse side of the coins.
● High-quality gold and silver minting: Gupta coins were lustrous and of exceptional
quality, as they were minted in gold and silver.
Post-Gupta coins, including those of Harsha (7th century AD), the Kalachuri of Tripuri
(11th century AD), and early medieval Rajputs (9th-12th centuries AD), were repetitive and
aesthetically less appealing:
● Coins minted in lower-quality metals:
➢ Persistent internal conflicts among medieval kings weakened the treasury.
➢ As a result, coins were minted using inferior metals such as nickel, copper, and
lead.
➢ The resulting coins lacked luster and quality.
➢ Frequent coups and successions led to hastily minted and demonetized dynastic
coins, leaving little time for grand designs and unique motifs.
● Rajput coin designs focused on martial motifs: Rajput coins had designs of bull and
horseman, and South Indian coins had dynastic crests of fish (Pandya), tiger (Chola), lion
(Hoysala), etc. The reverse side usually featured a temple or goddess image, or was left
blank in the case of Western Chalukyas.

12
 ●Coins began including textual information: Since Islam prohibits idolatry, the scope for
inscribing motifs and images on Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire coins became limited.
● Uniform designs: British-India coins featured monotonous designs with textual
information on the obverse side and a portrait of the king or queen on the reverse side. After
independence, the king's portrait was replaced by the Lion Capital of Ashoka Pillar.
Conclusion:
The observations outlined above demonstrate that the Gupta numismatic art's excellence is not
evident in later times. Gold coins struck after the Gupta period are rare. Gangeyadeva, the
Kalachuri ruler, revived these by issuing the 'Seated Lakshmi Coins,' which were later replicated by
subsequent rulers in both gold and debased forms.

2016
Q1. Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives, successfully
expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate. (200 words, 12.5 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the concept of early Buddhist Stupa art and its
significance in Buddhist culture.
● Body:
➢ Discuss how early Buddhist Stupa-art depicted folk motifs and narratives, such as
Jataka tales and scenes from the Buddha's life.
➢ Explain how these motifs and narratives were used to convey Buddhist ideals.
➢ Highlight the symbolic significance of various elements of Stupa-art, such as the
lotus, the wheel, and the Bodhi tree, in conveying Buddhist ideals.
➢ Mention the role of Stupa-art in popularizing Buddhism and spreading its message
to a wider audience.
● Conclusion: Summarize the significance of early Buddhist Stupa-art in conveying
Buddhist ideals and popularizing Buddhism.

Introduction:
Early Buddhist Stupa-art was a significant form of religious art in ancient India. These monuments
were designed as the physical embodiment of Buddhist ideals and served as places of worship,
meditation, and pilgrimage. The Stupa art form is considered to be one of the earliest forms of
Indian art that aimed to communicate the teachings and beliefs of Buddhism.
Body:
The Early Buddhist Stupa-art was successful in expounding Buddhist ideals in many ways,
including:
● Depiction of Buddhist narratives and legends: Early Buddhist Stupa-art depicted a
variety of folk motifs and narratives, including Jataka tales, scenes from the life of the
Buddha, and depictions of the Buddha's teachings. These motifs and narratives were used
to convey Buddhist ideals such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the
concept of Dependent Origination.
➢ For example, the Jataka tales, which are stories of the Buddha's past lives, were
depicted in Stupa-art to illustrate the virtues of compassion, generosity, and
selflessness.
➢ Scenes from the Buddha's life, such as his birth, enlightenment, and death,
were used to emphasize the importance of renunciation, meditation, and non-
attachment.
● Representation of Buddhist motifs: Stupa-art also used various symbolic elements to
convey Buddhist ideals. For example, the lotus was often used as a symbol of purity and
enlightenment, while the wheel symbolized the Buddha's teachings and the Bodhi
tree represented the site of the Buddha's enlightenment.
● Role of Stupa-art: Stupa-art played an important role in popularizing Buddhism and
spreading its message to a wider audience. The simplicity and accessibility of its folk

13
 motifs and narratives, combined with its use of symbolic elements, made it an effective
medium for communicating Buddhist ideals to people from all walks of life.
➢ Depiction of Bodhisattvas: The Stupa-art depicted various Bodhisattvas, like
Avalokiteshwara, Manjushri, and Maitreya, who were believed to be enlightened
beings who help others attain enlightenment.
● Depiction of the Eight Great Events: The Stupa-art also depicted the Eight Great Events
in the life of Buddha, which were considered to be the most significant events in his life and
represented the key events in the development of Buddhism.
Conclusion:
The Early Buddhist Stupa-art was successful in conveying Buddhist ideals and beliefs through the
use of Buddhist narratives, motifs, and Bodhisattva depictions. The incorporation of local folk
motifs further added to the Stupa-art's significance in the local culture and tradition. The Great
Stupa at Sanchi, the Stupa at Amaravati, and the Stupa at Bharhut are some of the excellent
examples of the Early Buddhist Stupa-art in India.

Q2. Krishnadeva Raya, the king of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar
himself but was also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss. (200 words, 12.5
marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce Krishnadeva Raya and his reign in Vijayanagar.
● Body: Discuss Krishnadeva Raya's achievements as a scholar and patron of learning and
literature, with examples from his reign.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion mentioning the views of the Portuguese travelers
who visited the Vijayanagar empire during his reign.
Introduction:
The kingdom of Vijayanagar was ruled by Sri Krishnadeva Raya from 1509 to 1529. He is
considered as one of the greatest statesmen in Indian history. It is said that he is one of the
greatest rulers that medieval South India had produced. He was called by various names, some of
them being “Kannadaraya”, “Kannada Rajya Ramaramana” etc. All round development and
prosperity was witnessed in Southern India during his reign.
Body:
The reign of Sri Krishnadeva Raya in the Kingdom of Vijayanagar is said to be a glorious
chapter in the literary history of South India:
He was an eminent scholar:
● He wrote Madalasa Charita, Satyavedu Parinaya, Rasamanjari and Jambavati Kalyana.
● Much of his wealth was reserved for the promotion of scholarship.
● He was fluent in many languages and hence, his patronage was enjoyed by the poets of
Sanskrit, Telugu, Tamil and Kannada.
● He wrote Amuktamalkyada in Telugu. It is a poetic narration of the story of Goda Devi
and of her foster father Vishnuchitta. He was conferred with the title Andhrabhoja for this.
● He also wrote a Sanskrit play Jambavati Kalyana.
Also, a great patron of learning and literature and was known as Abhinava Bhoja:
● Sri Krishnadeva Raya established himself as a royal poet, an emperor-poet, a poets'
poet and a people's poet.
● Ashtadiggajas were eight great scholars in his court. They included Allasani Peddana often
described as the Andhra-kavitapitamaha. His famous work was Manucharitamu. Another
famous poet was Nandi Thimmanna, the author of Parijathapaharanamu.
● Kannada Mahabharatha, which was originally started by Kumara Vyasa was finally
completed by Kannada poet Thimmanna at the behest of Sri Krishnadeva Raya.
● Poets and Authors who were patronized during his reign are as follows:
➢ Kannada poet Mallanarya who wrote Veerasaivamrita, Bhavachintaratna etc.
➢ Chatu Vittalanatha who wrote Bhagvatha.
➢ Timmanna Kavi who wrote his eulogy Krishnaraya Bharata.
➢ Tamil poet Haridasa.
● Peddanna, a Telugu poet was personally honored by Sri Krishnadeva Raya for the former's
proficiency in Telugu and Sanskrit.

14
 ●He was also responsible for developing and nurturing Carnatic musical tradition by
providing shelter to musicians such as VyasaRaya, who was the propagator of Haridasa
movement in Karnataka.
● Classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi were also encouraged by him.
Conclusion:
Domingo Paes and Duarte Barbosa, the Portuguese travelers, visited the Vijayanagar empire during
his reign and they have mentioned in their travelogs that the King was not only a good
administrator but also an excellent scholar and a patron of art and literature.

2015
Q1. Mesolithic rock cut architecture of India not only reflects the cultural life of the times
but also a fine aesthetic sense comparable to modern painting. Critically evaluate this
comment. (200 words, 12.5 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the Mesolithic era and its significance in India's history,
highlighting the shift from a nomadic lifestyle to settled agricultural communities.
● Body:
➢ Present the concept of rock-cut architecture and its emergence during this period.
➢ Discuss the main features of Mesolithic rock-cut architecture in India.
➢ Critically evaluate the aesthetic sense of these artworks by comparing them to
contemporary painting techniques.
➢ Analyze the cultural life reflected in Mesolithic rock-cut architecture.
● Conclusion: Reiterate the importance of Mesolithic rock-cut architecture as a reflection of
cultural life and its aesthetic value.
Introduction:
The Mesolithic era, spanning from around 10,000 to 6,000 BCE, was a transformative period in
India's history, as it marked the shift from a nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyle to more settled
agricultural communities. A significant heritage from this time is the rock-cut architecture, which
sheds light on the day-to-day life, beliefs, and artistic flair of the people of that era.
Body:
The rock-cut architecture from India's Mesolithic period is typified by rock shelters and caves
embellished with paintings and carvings illustrating various facets of daily life, plant and animal
life, and rituals. Notable examples of such architectural works include the Bhimbetka rock
shelters in Madhya Pradesh and the Auditorium Cave in Tamil Nadu.

Aesthetic Sense:
● Mesolithic rock art showcases a remarkable aesthetic quality, as evidenced in the use of
colors, shapes, and compositions.
● Utilizing natural pigments like red and white ochre, the artists displayed a deep
understanding of perspective and shading principles.
● While it is difficult to directly compare Mesolithic art to modern painting, certain aspects
such as abstraction, symbolism, and attention to detail suggest a refined visual language
that remains pertinent today.
Cultural Life:
● The rock-cut architecture offers a valuable insight into the cultural life of Mesolithic India.
Depictions of hunting scenes, gatherings, and social interactions provide information on the
societal organization, economic pursuits, and the close relationship these communities had
with their natural surroundings.
● Additionally, representations of spiritual and religious beliefs, like animal worship and
nature spirits (e.g., the "dancing girl" at Bhimbetka), give us a unique understanding of
the early belief systems in the Indian subcontinent.
Stylistic elements:
● Mesolithic rock-cut architecture, while not as technically refined as modern painting,
possesses a unique aesthetic that conveys the artistic sensibilities of its creators.

15
 ● Example: The naturalistic depiction of animals in Bhimbetka, such as bison and deer,
shows a sense of movement and proportion that is aesthetically pleasing and demonstrates
the artists' observation skills.
It is crucial, however, to recognize the limitations in comparing Mesolithic rock art with
contemporary painting.
● Over the millennia, techniques, materials, and artistic objectives have undergone significant
changes, and the societal role of artists has evolved as well.
● Moreover, the preservation of rock art often proves challenging, making it hard to accurately
evaluate its complete aesthetic qualities.
Conclusion:
There is no doubt that Mesolithic rock-cut architecture in India provides a captivating snapshot of
the cultural life of that time, as well as a remarkable demonstration of artistic ability and
sensibility. While comparing this art directly with modern painting might not be entirely
appropriate, the aesthetic value and influence of these early artistic expressions on Indian art and
culture should not be downplayed. The enduring impact of these works bears witness to the
creativity and resourcefulness of the human spirit throughout history.

Q2. The ancient civilization in the Indian sub-continent differed from those of Egypt,
Mesopotamia, and Greece in that its culture and traditions have been preserved
without a breakdown to the present day. Comment. (200 words, 12.5 marks)
Answer:
Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the Indus Valley Civilization and its distinctiveness compared to
other ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece.
● Body: Discuss the factors contributing to the preservation of Indian culture and traditions.
● Conclusion: Reiterate the unique aspect of Indian civilization in maintaining its cultural
identity without significant breakdowns, unlike other ancient civilizations.
Introduction:
The ancient civilization that thrived in the Indian subcontinent, known as the Indus Valley
Civilization, stands apart from other well-known ancient civilizations like Egypt, Mesopotamia, and
Greece. A key distinction lies in the unbroken preservation of its cultural and traditional heritage
over thousands of years.
Body:
Reasons behind this extraordinary preservation and the factors that facilitated the
uninterrupted transmission of Indian culture and traditions:
● Indian subcontinent's geographical position: Natural barriers, such as the Himalayas to
the north and the Indian Ocean to the south, afforded a degree of isolation that protected
the region from the numerous invasions and cultural upheavals experienced by other
ancient civilizations.
● Long-standing religious and spiritual traditions: In contrast to the religions of ancient
Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece, which eventually declined or were supplanted by other
belief systems, Hinduism (the dominant religion in India) has persisted and adapted over
time, ensuring the conservation of its essential values, rituals, and practices.
● Ancient Indian custom of oral transmission: Ancient texts, such as the Vedas and the
Mahabharata, were orally passed down through generations before being committed to
writing. This oral tradition guaranteed the continuity of knowledge, values, and customs,
allowing them to be transmitted across millennia without substantial alterations.
● Caste system: The strict social structure and divisions of labor helped maintain the
cultural practices and beliefs of each caste through generations, contributing to the overall
preservation of Indian culture.
● India's enduring tradition of tolerance and assimilation: Each invasion that happened in
India introduced new cultural elements, which were integrated into the existing Indian
cultural fabric, thereby enriching and diversifying the culture rather than supplanting it.
Conclusion:
These factors have enabled the Indian subcontinent to maintain its unique cultural identity
without experiencing the significant breakdowns that affected other ancient civilizations like Egypt,
Mesopotamia, and Greece. The unbroken continuity of Indian culture and traditions is a testament
to the resilience and adaptability of this ancient civilization.

16
 2014
Q1. Gandhara sculpture owed as much to the Romans as to the Greeks. Explain. (150
words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the Gandhara School of Art and its unique blend of Greco-Roman
and Indian artistic elements.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the Greek influence on Gandhara art.
➢ Discuss the Roman influence on Gandhara art.
➢ Provide specific examples of Gandhara sculptures that showcase the blend of
Greco-Roman and Indian artistic elements.
● Conclusion: Conclude by acknowledging the vibrant cultural exchanges during this period.
Introduction:
The Gandhara School of Art, flourishing in the ancient region of Gandhara (now parts of Pakistan
and Afghanistan) between the 1st and 5th centuries CE, is renowned for its distinctive
amalgamation of Greco-Roman and Indian artistic elements. The Gandhara sculpture is as much
indebted to the Romans as to the Greeks.
Body:
The Greek influence on Gandhara sculptures can be traced back to Alexander the Great's
conquest and the formation of the Indo-Greek Kingdoms. This cultural exchange led to the unique
Gandhara artistic style, characterized by idealized human figures, draped garments, and
contrapposto poses.
Roman influence on Gandhara art began with the rise of the Kushan Empire and fostered cultural
exchanges via the Silk Road. Roman art significantly impacted Gandhara art through:
● Realism: Roman art emphasized authentic depictions of individuals, inspiring Gandhara
artists to craft more true-to-life and naturalistic representations of their subjects.
● Iconography: Gandhara art incorporated Roman sculptural elements, such as vine scroll
motifs, cherubs, and garlands, reflecting a fusion of artistic styles.
● Techniques: The Romans were renowned for their stone carving expertise, which influenced
Gandhara sculptors to adopt similar methods.
● Material: Gandhara artists began utilizing materials such as stucco and marble, common
in Roman art, in addition to the local schist stone.
For example, the famous "Standing Buddha" statue in the Tokyo National Museum showcases
the blend of Greco-Roman and Indian artistic elements. The Buddha's draped clothing and
wavy hair reflect Greek influence, while the realistic facial features and expression demonstrate
Roman artistic sensibilities.
Conclusion:
While the Greeks provided the groundwork for Gandhara art, the Romans contributed to its further
enrichment and diversification. This merging of artistic traditions bears witness to the vibrant
cultural exchanges that transpired during this era and the enduring legacy of these ancient
civilizations in shaping the artistic heritage of the Indian subcontinent.

Q2. To what extent has the urban planning and culture of the Indus Valley Civilization
provided inputs to the present day urbanization? Discuss. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) and its advanced urban
planning and culture.
● Body:
➢ Identify and mention the characteristics that show how urban planning and culture
of the Indus Valley Civilization provided inputs to the present day urbanization.
➢ Substantiate with appropriate examples.
● Conclusion: Conclude emphasizing on the innovative and forward-thinking nature of the
IVC, whose principles remain relevant and influential in shaping modern urban
environments.

17
Introduction:
The Indus Valley Civilization (IVC), which flourished around 2500-1900 BCE, is known for its
advanced urban planning and culture. Its cities, such as Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, displayed a
remarkable level of organization and sophistication, which have left lasting impressions on present-
day urbanization.
Body:
The urban planning and culture of the Indus Valley Civilization have provided inputs to
contemporary urbanization:
● Grid Layout: IVC cities, like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, employed grid patterns for
efficient movement and infrastructure. Modern cities worldwide, such as New York City,
and Indian cities like Chandigarh and Jaipur have also adopted grid layouts to
enhance functionality and navigation.
● Zoning: IVC cities had distinct zones for residential, commercial, and administrative
purposes. Contemporary urban planning continues to use zoning to ensure the efficient
distribution of urban functions and maintain residential safety and peace.
● Drainage and Sanitation: IVC prioritized hygiene with well-planned drainage systems,
indoor plumbing, and waste disposal. Today, cities emphasize effective waste management
and sewer systems for cleanliness and disease prevention, following the IVC's lead.
● Standardization: IVC city planning displayed a high level of standardization in
construction materials and techniques. Modern urban planning also relies on
standardization for efficient construction and infrastructure development across cities.
● Public Spaces: Indus Valley cities featured public spaces, like the Great Bath of Mohenjo-
Daro, for communal gathering and possible ritualistic functions. Contemporary urban
planning emphasizes public spaces, such as parks and community centers, to cater to
social and leisure needs.

Conclusion:
The Indus Valley Civilization's urban planning and culture have had a lasting impact on
contemporary urban development, both globally and within India. The IVC's enduring legacy in
urban planning underscores the innovative and forward-thinking nature of this ancient civilization,
whose principles remain relevant and influential in addressing the challenges of today's urban
environments.

Q3. Taxila university was one of the oldest universities of the world with which were
associated a number of renowned learned personalities of different disciplines. Its
strategic location caused its fame to flourish, but unlike Nalanda, it is not considered
as a university in the modern sense. Discuss. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce Taxila University as an ancient learning center in India.
● Body:
➢ Mention its association with renowned scholars and its strategic location
➢ Discuss the key differences between Taxila University and modern universities.
● Conclusion: Emphasize the importance of Taxila as a center of learning in ancient India,
despite its differing structure and functioning compared to modern universities.
Introduction:
Taxila University, an ancient learning center in present-day Pakistan, stands as one of the world's
earliest educational institutions. Flourishing between the 5th century BCE and 5th century CE, its
strategic location attracted scholars and students globally. While renowned for nurturing eminent
scholars, Taxila University differs from modern universities in various aspects, especially when
compared to its contemporary, Nalanda University.
Body:
Its strategic location caused its fame to flourish, but unlike Nalanda, it is not considered
as a university in the modern sense:

● Notable personalities associated with Taxila University included Kautilya (Chanakya), as

well as Charaka, a renowned physician who contributed significantly to the field of
Ayurveda.

18
 ●
Its strategic location near the crossroads of major trade routes connecting India, Persia, and
Central Asia helped Taxila attract scholars from diverse disciplines, enhancing its
reputation as a center of learning.
However, Taxila University's structure and functioning were different from modern
universities in several ways:
● Teaching methodology: Unlike modern universities that offer structured programs and
curriculums, Taxila focused on personalized teaching methods. Students would choose a
teacher and live with them as part of the Guru-Shishya (teacher-disciple) tradition, learning
directly from their chosen mentor.
● Curriculum: Taxila University offered a wide range of subjects, including religion,
philosophy, medicine, astronomy, mathematics, and statecraft, among others. However, the
curriculum was not standardized across the institution, as it depended on the expertise and
interests of individual teachers.
● Institutional structure: Modern universities are characterized by a centralized
administration, a well-defined hierarchy, and a degree-granting system. In contrast, Taxila
University was more of a decentralized collection of learning centers and individual
teachers, without a central authority or degree system.
● Religious affiliation: Unlike Nalanda, which was predominantly a Buddhist institution,
Taxila University was more secular in nature, accommodating scholars and students from
various religious backgrounds.

Conclusion:
While Nalanda University shares some similarities with modern universities, such as a structured
curriculum, an organized hierarchy, and a degree-granting system, Taxila University did not
possess these features. As a result, it is not considered a university in the modern sense. However,
Taxila's contributions to ancient Indian education and scholarship cannot be overlooked, as it was
a flourishing center of learning that nurtured many renowned scholars in different disciplines.

Q4. Sufis and medieval mystic saints failed to modify either the religious ideas and
practices or the outward structure of Hindu / Muslim societies to any appreciable
extent. Comment. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Start with a brief introduction on Sufis and medieval mystic saints and their
role in shaping the religious and social landscape of India.
● Body: Discuss the various factors that contributed to the limited impact of Sufis and
medieval mystic saints in modifying religious ideas and practices in Hindu and Muslim
societies.
● Conclusion: Conclude with a final evaluation of the role of Sufis and medieval mystic
saints in shaping the religious and social landscape of India.
Introduction:
In the rich tapestry of Indian history, Sufis and medieval mystic saints strove to bridge the gap
between Hinduism and Islam, fostering spiritual unity and interfaith dialogue. However, their
impact on the broader religious ideas, practices, and social structures within Hindu and Muslim
societies was limited.
Body:
Sufism, a mystical dimension of Islam, emphasized the pursuit of a personal connection with
the divine through love, devotion, and self-discipline. They established khanqahs (Sufi lodges) and
dargahs (shrines) across the Indian subcontinent, attracting followers from different faiths.
Similarly, medieval mystic saints, like Kabir, Guru Nanak, and Meera Bai, sought to bridge
the gap between Hinduism and Islam by promoting spiritual unity, emphasizing the oneness of
God, and rejecting religious dogmas and rituals.
Despite their efforts, Sufis and medieval mystic saints faced several challenges in
modifying the religious ideas and practices of Hindu and Muslim societies:
● Resistance from the orthodox: Orthodox resistance from both Hindu and Muslim
communities limited the reformative potential of Sufis and mystic saints, as their teachings
were perceived as a threat to traditional religious practices and social hierarchies.
● Limited social reach: Despite attracting followers from diverse backgrounds, Sufis and
mystic saints had limited social reach, as their teachings resonated primarily with specific

19
 sections of society, thereby hindering their ability to bring about widespread change in
religious ideas and practices.
● Focus on individual spirituality: Sufis and mystic saints focused on individual spiritual
experiences, which did not always translate into broad social or structural changes. While
their teachings fostered personal transformation, they fell short of instigating large-scale
societal reforms.
● Fragmentation and regionalization: Both the Sufi and Bhakti movements were
characterized by regional variations and a diversity of beliefs and practices, which made it
challenging to establish a unified or coherent impact on the religious ideas and social
structures of Hindu and Muslim societies.

Conclusion:
While Sufis and medieval mystic saints significantly impacted religious thought and promoted
interfaith harmony in India, their influence on the broader religious ideas, practices, and social
structures of Hindu and Muslim societies was limited. Their teachings faced resistance from
orthodox groups, had limited social reach, and often focused on individual spirituality, making it
challenging to bring about widespread changes in religious practices and social structures.

2013
Q1. Though not very useful from the point of view of a connected political history of South
India, the Sangam literature portrays the social and economic conditions of its time
with remarkable vividness. Comment. (200 words, 10 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce your answer by giving a brief account on Sangam Literature.
● Body:
➢ Talk about why Sangam literature doesn’t help much to dig into the political history
of India.
➢ And how it helps in understanding the social and economic condition of South
India.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.
Introduction:
The earliest available Tamil literature was given the name “Sangam Literature”. It literally means
association, here it means an association of Tamil poets that flourished in Ancient Southern India.
Tamil legends have talked about three Sangams- Madurai, Kapadapuram and Thenmadurai.
Body:
Sangam literature doesn’t help in Political history due to the following reasons:
● As poets were patronized by the ruling elites, there are exaggerations about the victories
and territorial influences of the Kings. Stories like attempts to link the Mahabharata war
and pandavas are nothing but an exaggeration.
● More focus was given to Hero-Worship rather than how they shaped relations with other
states.
● Some of the names, titles are imaginary.
● There are no archaeological evidences to corroborate certain settlements like
Kaveripattanam in Sangam poems.
● Most of the work is romantic in nature.
● A lot of work is still not translated.
The Sangam literature helps in understanding the SOCIAL conditions of South India:
● Sangam poets have mentioned four varnas: Arashar (King/nobility), Brahmanas (priests),
Viashiyar (traders), Velala (farmer).
● Unlike North India, South India did not have a stringent for fold varna system.
● Priests (Brahmanas) performed yagna before wars.
● Sangam poets have written that women were allowed to choose their partners. Love
marriages were also common. Though, the life of a widow was miserable and Sati was
practiced.
● Society was divided on the basis of clans known as “Kuti”. Inter-dining and social
interaction among Kuti groups was permitted.

20
 ● As people wore amulets to ward off evil and also to bring rain and luck.
● The burial practices varied from burial in urns to cremation rituals.
The Sangam literature helps in understanding the ECONOMIC conditions of South India:
● There were five economic zones known as tinai, (hills, drylands, jungle, plains and coast)
each of them supporting a different economic activity.
● The kings received income from trade, tributes and plunder but a regular taxation system
was not present.
● The main occupational activities were Agriculture, Gathering, Fishing, Hunting and
pastoralism. Cattle raids have been frequently mentioned in the poems.
● Items that treaders dealt in were corn, salt, textile and gold.
● Both inland and external trades were practiced, as witnessed in the poems. Silk, Cotton,
ivory, pepper and pearls formed a part of major exports.
● Women were actively involved in spinning, weaving, basket making, planting, flower selling
etc.
Conclusion:
The works of the first two Sangams except Tolkappiyam (2nd Sangam work) have been lost. Only
the work of the third Sangam survives. And, from the aforementioned points, it is evident that the
Sangam literature portrays the social and economic conditions of its time with remarkable
vividness.

Q2.
(a) Discuss the Tandava dance as recorded in the early Indian inscriptions. (100 words, 5
marks)
Answer:
Introduction:
The Tandava dance is an ancient form of Indian classical dance believed to have originated from
Lord Shiva's cosmic dance. The dance is characterized by powerful movements, quick footwork,
and a fierce expression on the face. It is also believed to represent the five elements of nature -
earth, water, fire, air, and space.
Body:
● The dance has been mentioned in early Indian inscriptions, such as the Harshacharita by
Banabhatta and the Natyashastra by Bharata Muni.
● The Natyashastra provides a detailed description of the Tandava dance and its various
elements, including the hand gestures, footwork, and facial expressions.
● The Tandava dance has several variations, including Ananda Tandava and Rudra Tandava,
which represent Lord Shiva's joyful and wrathful dances, respectively.
● The dance also has regional variations, such as the Nataraja Tandava, which is popular in
Southern India.
● The Tandava dance remains an important part of India's rich cultural heritage.
Conclusion:
With its many variations and regional adaptations, the Tandava dance remains an important part
of India's rich cultural heritage.

(b) Chola architecture represents a high watermark in the evolution of temple

architecture. Discuss. (100 words, 5 marks)
Answer:
Introduction:
The Chola dynasty, which ruled over South India (9th to the 13th century CE) is renowned for its
contributions to Indian art and architecture. The Cholas were great patrons of temple construction,
and their architectural style is considered a pinnacle in the evolution of temple architecture.
Body:
● The Chola architectural style is characterized by its intricate carvings, towering gopurams
(temple towers), and extensive use of stone in construction.

21
 ● The Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, built by the Chola king Raja Raja Chola I, is a
prime example of Chola architecture. The temple's vimana (tower) stands at 216 feet tall,
making it one of the tallest temple towers in India.
● The Chola temples were not just places of worship but also centers of learning and culture.
● They were built to house not just the deities but also the community, with areas for social
gatherings, festivals, and even economic activities.
● The temples also had libraries, schools, and hospitals.
● The Chola architectural style also incorporated elements of the earlier Pallava and Chalukya
styles, as well as influences from Southeast Asia.
● The use of granite and basalt in construction allowed for intricate carvings and durability,
which has helped many of these temples withstand the test of time.
Conclusion:
The Chola temples remain an important part of India's rich cultural heritage and continue to
inspire architects and artists alike.



22
MODERN HISTORY

22
 2022
Q1. Why did the armies of the British East India Company – mostly comprising of Indian
soldiers – win consistently against the more numerous and better equipped armies of
the Indian rulers? Give reasons. (150 words, 10 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the British East India Company and the paradox of Indian
soldiers fighting against their own rulers.
● Body:
➢ Discuss reasons for the Company's consistent victories over Indian armies,
including their superior military tactics, advanced weaponry, and ability to exploit
divisions among Indian rulers.
➢ Provide examples of significant battles, such as the Battle of Plassey to illustrate the
British East India Company's superiority.
● Conclusion: Summarize the main points and conclude with the ultimate outcome of
British conquest in India.

Introduction:
The British East India Company's conquest of India involved Indian soldiers fighting against their
own rulers. Despite being outnumbered and less equipped, the Company's armies consistently
emerged victorious in battles across the subcontinent.
Body:
The British East India Company's (EIC) consistent victories against the larger armies of
Indian rulers can be attributed to several key factors:
● Military Strategy and Organization: EIC's armies adopted modern military tactics and
effectively used combined arms, while Indian armies were less organized and hadn't
adopted modern techniques. For instance, in the Battle of Plassey, EIC troops and allies
defeated a larger Indian army through superior tactics and organization.
● Diplomacy and Espionage: EIC used diplomacy and espionage to create divisions and
mistrust among Indian rulers, weakening their opposition. During the Battle of Plassey,
the British conspired with a high-ranking officer in Siraj-ud-Daulah's army, ensuring
his non-cooperation during the battle.
● Control of Maritime Trade and Resources: EIC's dominance in maritime trade allowed
them to control vital resources, such as money, weapons, and supplies, which they
used to finance and equip their armies.
● Political Fragmentation and Lack of Unity: Indian states were politically fragmented and
engaged in rivalries, making it easier for the British to use a "divide and rule" strategy.
During the Anglo-Mysore Wars, the EIC formed alliances with the Marathas and the
Nizam of Hyderabad to counter the ambitions of Tipu Sultan and his father.
● Gradual Expansion: The British followed a policy of gradual expansion, which allowed
them to consolidate their gains before moving on to new conquests. This approach
enabled them to build a strong foundation and avoid overextending their resources.
● Technological Advantage: EIC had a technological advantage, using advanced weaponry
such as flintlock muskets and field artillery. Indian armies often relied on outdated
equipment, which disadvantaged them in battles. This was evident in the Battle of
Wandiwash,
● Role of Indian Mercenaries: EIC made extensive use of Indian mercenaries and soldiers,
who were often more loyal to their paymasters than to their native rulers. These
Indian soldiers formed the bulk of the EIC's forces, providing them with a significant
manpower advantage.
Conclusion:
Indian rulers' failure to modernize their armies and adapt to new military technologies and
strategies put them at a disadvantage against the well-organized and disciplined EIC forces. The
British exploited this edge, along with diplomatic skills and political fragmentation, to secure
multiple victories and colonize India for nearly two centuries.

23
Q2. Why was there a sudden spurt in famines in colonial India since the mid-eighteenth
century? Give reasons. (150 words, 10 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Start by providing a brief background on the occurrence of famines in
colonial India since the mid-eighteenth century. Highlight the severity of the situation and
its impact on the Indian population.
● Body: Identify and mention the possible reasons behind it.
➢ Discuss how British colonial policies, such as land revenue and taxation, played a
significant role in the occurrence of famines.
➢ Discuss how British colonial policies and the spread of commercial agriculture led
to the neglect of subsistence agriculture.
● Conclusion: Sum up by mentioning the long-lasting impact of famines on the Indian
population and the need to acknowledge and address the issue.

Introduction:
The arrival of the British colonial era in India from the mid-eighteenth century had profound
impacts on the country's social and economic fabric. One of the most disastrous consequences of
this period was the sudden and devastating increase in famines, which inflicted widespread
starvation and loss of life on the Indian population.
Body:
The sudden spurt in famines in colonial India can be attributed to several factors, which
were primarily a result of British colonial policies and their impact on the Indian economy
and society:
● Agricultural Policies: British land revenue policies, such as the Permanent Settlement
of 1793 in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa, placed a heavy tax burden on farmers, leaving them
with little incentive or resources to invest in agricultural improvements. The Ryotwari
System, implemented in Madras, Bombay, and parts of Assam, also led to high land
revenue demands and further stressed the farmers.
● Cash Crops and Commercialization: British colonial policies encouraged the cultivation
of cash crops, such as indigo, cotton, and opium, which led to a decline in food crop
cultivation and made the Indian population more susceptible to food shortages and
famines.
● Infrastructure and Irrigation: The British built extensive railway networks in India, but
the construction of irrigation canals and other agricultural infrastructure was
comparatively limited, resulting in increased vulnerability to famines.
● Economic Exploitation: The British extracted resources from India through heavy taxation
and trade imbalances, which depleted India's wealth and left the population with fewer
resources to deal with famines. The ‘drain of wealth’ theory by Dadabhai Naoroji highlights
this exploitation.
● Inadequate Famine Relief Measures: The colonial government's response to famines was
often slow and inadequate. For instance, during the Orissa famine of 1866, the colonial
government's relief measures were criticized due to prioritizing law and order over relief.
● Ecological Factors: Deforestation for agriculture and resources extraction worsened
droughts and increased vulnerability to famines. For example: Deforestation in the
Central Provinces and Berar caused ecological imbalances and more frequent
droughts.
Conclusion:
The famines had long-lasting impacts on the Indian population, leading to a loss of lives,
displacement, and economic stagnation. It is crucial to acknowledge and address the issue by
implementing policies that promote sustainable agriculture and provide adequate support to
vulnerable communities in times of crisis. Simply put, the devastating famines in colonial India
highlight the negative impact of British rule and the need for fair policies and resource
management.

24
 2021
Q1. Trace the rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements with special reference to
Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the socio-religious reform movements in India, highlighting
the significance of the Young Bengal movement and the Brahmo Samaj.
● Body: Discuss the rise and growth of the Young Bengal movement and the Brahmo Samaj,
their objectives, the prominent leaders, and their contributions to social reform and
modern education.
● Conclusion: Summarize the impact of these movements in challenging social and
religious orthodoxy and their role in shaping modern India.
Introduction:
The rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements in India can be traced back to the 19th
century when the Indian subcontinent was under British colonial rule. The socio-religious reform
movements aimed to address social evils, introduce modern education, and promote rationalism,
humanism, and a spirit of inquiry. Two such significant movements were the Young Bengal
movement and the Brahmo Samaj.
Body:
These movements played an essential role in shaping the social, religious, and educational
aspects of modern India:
● Young Bengal Movement:
➢ The Young Bengal movement, also known as the Derozians, was founded by Henry
Louis Vivian Derozio (1809-1831) in the early 19th century.
➢ The movement emerged as a response to the social and religious orthodoxy prevalent
in India during the time.
➢ The Young Bengal movement aimed to promote Western education, rationalism, and
modernity among the Indian youth.
➢ The Derozians were deeply influenced by the ideals of liberty, equality, and
fraternity.
➢ The growth of the Young Bengal movement can be attributed to its members' active
participation in social reform.
➢ They challenged social customs like caste discrimination, gender inequality, child
marriage, and the practice of Sati.
➢ The movement also contributed significantly to the spread of English education, as
many Derozians went on to establish schools and colleges to promote modern
education in Bengal.
● Brahmo Samaj:
➢ Brahmo Samaj, another prominent socio-religious reform movement, was founded
by Raja Ram Mohan Roy (1772-1833) in 1828.
➢ Roy was a visionary social reformer who aimed to reform the traditional Hindu
society by blending the best elements of Hinduism with the principles of rationalism
and humanism.
➢ The Brahmo Samaj movement aimed to purify Hinduism by eliminating
superstitions, caste discrimination, and other social evils.
➢ It also sought to promote monotheism and rationalism in religious practices.
➢ The movement emphasized the importance of education, particularly for women, as
a means to empower them and uplift their social status.
➢ The Brahmo Samaj movement grew under the leadership of other prominent
reformers such as Debendranath Tagore (1817-1905) and Keshub Chandra Sen
(1838-1884).
➢ Under Keshub Chandra Sen's leadership, the Brahmo Samaj further expanded its
reach and became a more radical and inclusive movement.
➢ Sen's advocacy for the abolition of caste distinctions, the promotion of women's
education, and his opposition to child marriage and polygamy helped establish the
Brahmo Samaj as a powerful force for social reform in India.

25
Conclusion:
The rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements like the Young Bengal movement and
Brahmo Samaj in the 19th century played a pivotal role in challenging the prevailing social and
religious orthodoxy in India. Their emphasis on rationalism, humanism, and modern education
laid the foundation for progressive change and influenced generations of reformers and thinkers in
India.

Q2. To what extent did the role of the moderates prepare a base for the wider freedom
movement? Comment. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the moderates within the Indian National Congress and their
initial goals and methods.
● Body: Discuss the various ways in which the moderates contributed to laying the
groundwork for the wider freedom movement.
● Conclusion: Summarize the significance of the moderates' role in shaping the trajectory
of the Indian freedom movement.
Introduction:
The Indian National Congress (INC), founded in 1885, initially consisted of moderate leaders who
sought constitutional reforms, civil rights, and greater representation in the legislative and
administrative processes. While their methods and demands were relatively limited compared to
the more radical leaders and ideologies that emerged later, the moderates played a crucial role in
laying the groundwork for the wider freedom movement in India.
Body:
Listed below are the multitude of approaches through which the moderates established the
groundwork for the expansive freedom movement:
● Awareness and Unity: The moderates fostered political consciousness, national unity, and
a sense of common purpose. They exposed the exploitative nature of British rule and united
people from different regions, religions, and linguistic backgrounds.
● Constitutional and Legal Means: By employing petitions, resolutions, and debates, they
prepared the Indian masses for a more organized and democratic struggle in the years to
come.
● Press and Public Opinion: Newspapers like The Hindu, The Statesman, and The Amrita
Bazar Patrika played a significant role in promoting their demands and grievances, thus
creating an environment conducive to the growth of the freedom movement.
● Demands for Reforms: Their efforts led to the introduction of Indian Councils Act of
1892, which expanded the role of Indians in the legislative process, and the Morley-Minto
Reforms of 1909, which provided for limited self-governance.
● Emergence of Mass Movements: Although they may not have directly initiated these
movements, their efforts paved the way for more radical leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak,
Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai, who adopted a more aggressive approach towards
British rule.
Conclusion:
While their methods and demands may have been moderate compared to the more radical leaders
that followed, their contributions were instrumental in shaping the trajectory of the Indian freedom
movement.

Q3. Bring out the constructive programmes of Mahatma Gandhi during Non-Cooperation
Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce Mahatma Gandhi's significance in India's struggle for
independence and his leadership in the Non-Cooperation Movement and Civil Disobedience
Movement.
● Body: Elaborate on the diverse constructive initiatives undertaken by Gandhi during both
movements, providing examples.
● Conclusion: Recap the influence of these constructive initiatives on the Indian freedom
struggle.

26
Introduction:
Mahatma Gandhi, a central figure in India's fight for independence, championed nonviolent
resistance to challenge British rule. As a leader during the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922)
and the Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-1934), he revolutionized India's freedom struggle by
engaging the masses. Alongside these movements, Gandhi initiated various constructive programs
aimed at social and economic improvement, self-sufficiency, and nation-building.
Body:
Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922):
● Swadeshi and Boycott of Foreign Goods: This fostered self-reliance, stimulated local
industries, and diminished reliance on British imports. For example, the boycott of British
textiles led to a surge in demand for Indian handlooms.
● Advancement of Khadi: By encouraging Khadi production, he created job opportunities in
rural areas.
● Hindu-Muslim Unity: For instance, he supported the Khilafat Movement, which garnered
Muslim support for the Non-Cooperation Movement.
● Education: He stressed the value of vocational training and self-reliance in education,
leading to the establishment of national schools and colleges.
Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-1934):
● Salt Satyagraha: By making salt from seawater, Gandhi symbolically defied an unjust law,
exemplifying the potency of civil disobedience.
● Village Improvement: Gandhi concentrated on rural progress and the elevation of villages
through self-sufficiency, sanitation, and economic advancement. For example, he initiated
programs to construct roads, dig wells, and improve agricultural practices.
● Prohibition of Alcohol and Drugs: Gandhi endorsed the prohibition of alcohol and drugs
to enhance social conditions and public health. He supported the establishment of
temperance societies to curb addiction.
● Women's Empowerment: He campaigned against child marriage and dowry and promoted
women's education, leading to an increase in female participation in various spheres.
Conclusion:
Mahatma Gandhi's constructive initiatives played a vital role in rallying the masses, promoting
unity, and fostering social transformation. The impact of these initiatives showcased the
effectiveness of Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolent resistance and his vision for an independent
India.

2020
Q1. Pala period is the most significant phase in the history of Buddhism in India.
Enumerate. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Begin by highlighting the Pala period as a pivotal chapter in the evolution of
Buddhism in India.
● Body:
➢ Identify and mention the key reasons for the significance of the Pala period.
➢ Substantiate your views with examples.
● Conclusion: Reiterate the significance of the Pala period in the history of Buddhism in
India.

Introduction:
The Pala period, spanning from the 8th to the 12th centuries, marks a pivotal chapter in the
evolution of Buddhism in India. This epoch is characterized by the remarkable resurgence and
growth of the religion under the auspices of the Pala dynasty, whose rulers were staunch patrons
of Buddhism.
Body:
Some of the key reasons for the significance of the Pala period are:

27
 ● Patronage of Buddhism: Pala kings, such as Dharmapala and Devapala, were devout
Buddhists and supported the religion through the establishment and maintenance of
monasteries, temples, and educational institutions.
● Development of Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism: These new schools of thought
provided fresh impetus to the religion, leading to an increased number of followers and a
deepening of Buddhist practices.
● Establishment of renowned monastic universities: The Pala kings were instrumental in
the establishment of famous monastic universities, such as Nalanda, Vikramashila, and
Odantapuri. These institutions attracted scholars and students from across the Indian
subcontinent and beyond, making them significant centers of learning, scholarship, and
cultural exchange.
● Proliferation of Buddhist art and architecture: The Pala school of art, which emerged
during this period, is known for its distinct style and fine craftsmanship.
● Spread of Buddhism beyond India: The transmission of Buddhist teachings, texts, and art
forms to these regions can be largely attributed to the patronage and support provided by
the Pala rulers.
● Preservation of Buddhist texts: Monks and scholars at institutions like Nalanda and
Vikramashila undertook the task of translating Buddhist texts from Sanskrit into other
languages, thereby ensuring the survival and dissemination of Buddhist knowledge.
Conclusion:
The Pala period was a highly significant phase in the history of Buddhism in India. The Pala
dynasty's patronage, along with the development of new schools of thought, the establishment of
renowned monastic universities, and the spread of Buddhism beyond India, all contributed to the
growth and impact of Buddhism during this time.

Q2. Evaluate the policies of Lord Curzon and their long term implications on the national
movements. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce Lord Curzon and his tenure as Viceroy of India.
● Body: Discuss key policies implemented by Lord Curzon and their impact on national
movements. Give examples.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion, summarizing the long-term implications of
Curzon's policies on the national movements and India's struggle for independence.

Introduction:
Lord Curzon served as the Viceroy of India from 1899 to 1905. During his tenure, he implemented
various policies that had a significant impact on India's political, social, and economic landscape.
Body:
Some of the key policies included:
● Education policy: The Universities Act of 1904 aimed at reforming the Indian education
system. This policy was met with resistance and fueled the national movement as Indians
saw it as an attempt to limit their intellectual growth and undermine their aspirations for
self-governance.
● Partition of Bengal in 1905: The partition had far-reaching consequences, as it galvanized
the Indian National Congress and various other groups to intensify their efforts for self-rule,
eventually leading to the reunification of Bengal in 1911.
● Curzon’s foreign policies:
➢ North-West Frontier Policy: Curzon focused on consolidating and securing the
British-occupied territories in the north-west. He kept Chitral under British control,
constructed a road connecting Peshawar and Chitral, and withdrew small British
troops from the Khyber Pass, Khur Valley, and Waziristan. These measures reduced
costs and brought peace to the region.
➢ Afghan Policy: Curzon's Afghan policy aimed to counter Russian expansion in
Central Asia and the Persian Gulf area. An agreement signed between Abdur
Rahman, the Afghan Amir, and the British provided financial aid to Afghanistan,
ensuring British influence in the region.
➢ Policy towards Persia: To secure British influence in the Persian Gulf area, Curzon
took firm measures to protect British interests from competing powers like Russia,
France, and Turkey.

28
 ➢ Relation with Tibet: Curzon's Tibet policy was driven by the fear of Russian
dominance in the region. Despite a signed trade agreement between Tibet and the
British in 1890, trade relations had ceased by the time Curzon became Viceroy.
Through his efforts, trade relations were revived, and Tibet agreed to pay a large
indemnity to the British.
● Co-operative Credit Societies Act: The 1904 act was aimed at promoting rural credit and
cooperative societies in India. However, it was also a tool for strengthening British control
over the Indian agrarian economy.
● Railway policy: Curzon undertook several railway projects aimed at improving
transportation and trade. While these projects had a positive economic impact, they were
also used to maintain British control over India's resources and exploit the colony
economically.
● Military policy: Curzon sought to modernize the Indian Army and increase the British
presence in the army hierarchy. This policy was met with discontent among Indian officers,
who were denied promotions and equal opportunities. The discrimination contributed to the
growing resentment and nationalist sentiment in the Indian armed forces.
● Archaeological Survey of India (ASI): Curzon established the ASI to protect and conserve
India's cultural heritage. While the ASI made significant contributions to the preservation of
Indian monuments and artifacts, it was also a means for the British to exert control over
India's cultural narrative.
Conclusion:
His policies in education, military, and cultural spheres heightened the Indian sense of nationalism
and desire for self-governance. In the years following Curzon's tenure, India saw an increase in
revolutionary activities and the emergence of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru,
who would go on to play crucial roles in India's struggle for independence.

Q3. Since the decade of the 1920s, the national movement acquired various ideological
strands and thereby expanded its social base. Discuss. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the decade of the 1920s in the context of the Indian national
movement.
● Body: Discuss the key ideological strands that emerged during the 1920s, their impact on
the national movement, and how they broadened the movement's social base.
● Conclusion: Summarize the significance of the 1920s in the Indian national movement.
Introduction:
The Indian national movement during the 1920s witnessed the emergence of various ideological
strands, significantly broadening its social base. This period marked the diversification of the
nationalist struggle, as different groups and leaders contributed their ideas and strategies to the
movement for independence.
Body:
The key ideological strands and their impact on the national movement in the 1920s
include:
● Gandhian ideology:
➢ Mahatma Gandhi emerged as a prominent leader during this time, advocating for
non-violent civil disobedience, known as Satyagraha, and passive resistance as a
means to challenge British rule.
➢ His campaigns, such as the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922) and the
Khilafat Movement (1919-1924), garnered support from various sections of society,
including peasants, workers, and the middle class.
➢ His emphasis on swaraj (self-rule) and the use of indigenous products
(swadeshi) resonated with the masses and attracted diverse groups to the national
movement.
● Revolutionary nationalism:
➢ Leaders like Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, and their organizations, such
as the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), advocated for armed
struggle to achieve independence.
➢ Although this approach had limited mass support, it inspired the youth and
generated a spirit of sacrifice and patriotism.

29
 ●Socialism and communism:
➢ The formation of the Communist Party of India (CPI) in 1925 and the rise of
socialist leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhas Chandra Bose helped
address socio-economic issues and attracted workers, peasants, and intellectuals
to the nationalist cause.
● Identity-based movements:
➢ The Self-Respect Movement led by E.V. Ramasamy "Periyar" in Tamil Nadu,
which focused on eradicating caste-based discrimination and promoting self-respect
among the lower castes.
➢ Similarly, the demand for separate electorates for Muslims led by the All-India
Muslim League contributed to the communalization of Indian politics.
● Regional nationalism:
➢ Various linguistic and cultural groups demanded greater representation and
autonomy within the Indian polity.
➢ This development diversified the national movement and encouraged regional
leaders to participate in the struggle for independence.
Conclusion:
The 1920s marked a critical period in the Indian national movement, as various ideological strands
emerged, significantly expanding the movement's social base. These diverse ideologies, although
sometimes contradictory, enriched the national struggle and contributed to the eventual
achievement of Indian independence.

2019
Q1. The 1857 uprising was the culmination of the recurrent, big and small local rebellions
that had occurred in the preceding hundred years of British rule. Elucidate. (150 words,
10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the 1857 uprising and its connection to the preceding local
rebellions against British rule.
● Body: Discuss the major factors and local rebellions that led to the 1857 uprising,
including:
➢ Socio-economic factors
➢ Religious and cultural factors
➢ Political factors
➢ Key local rebellions before 1857
● Conclusion: Summarize how the 1857 uprising was a culmination of the recurrent local
rebellions against British rule and its significance for the Indian national movement.

Introduction:
The 1857 uprising, also known as the First War of Indian Independence or the Sepoy Mutiny,
was a significant turning point in the Indian struggle against British rule. This large-scale rebellion
was a culmination of the numerous local rebellions that occurred in the hundred years preceding
the uprising, reflecting the growing discontent among various sections of Indian society under
colonial rule.
Body:
The major factors and local rebellions that led to the 1857 uprising include:
● Socio-economic factors:
➢ British economic policies, such as heavy taxation and land revenue systems,
impoverished the peasantry and led to widespread famines.
➢ The introduction of modern industries, railways, and telegraphs disrupted
traditional occupations, causing social unrest.
➢ These factors contributed to several local rebellions, such as the Sanyasi Rebellion
(1763-1800) and the Kol Rebellion (1831-1832).

30
 ●Religious and cultural factors:
➢ The British policy of imposing Western culture, education, and religious values
led to resentment among the Indian population, who saw these measures as an
assault on their customs and beliefs.
➢ Additionally, rumors about the use of cow and pig fat in the new Enfield rifle
cartridges angered both Hindu and Muslim soldiers, leading to the widespread
rebellion in 1857.
● Political factors:
➢ British annexation policies, such as the Doctrine of Lapse, caused discontent
among Indian princely states that were forcibly absorbed into British India.
➢ The deposition of Bahadur Shah II, the last Mughal emperor, and the annexation
of Oudh (Awadh) were significant triggers for the 1857 uprising.
● Key local rebellions before 1857: Some notable examples include the Paika Rebellion
(1817) in Odisha, the Santhal Rebellion (1855-1856) in present-day Jharkhand and Bihar,
and the Vellore Mutiny (1806) in present-day Tamil Nadu.
Conclusion:
The 1857 uprising was a culmination of the recurrent local rebellions against British rule that had
occurred in the preceding hundred years. It marked a significant turning point in India's struggle
against colonial rule, as it demonstrated the widespread discontent among various sections of
Indian society and ultimately paved the way for the emergence of the Indian national movement.

Q2. Examine the linkages between the nineteenth century’s ‘Indian Renaissance’ and the
emergence of national identity. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the 'Indian Renaissance' and its relationship to the
development of national identity in the 19th century.
● Body: Discuss the key elements of the Indian Renaissance and their connections to the
formation of national identity.
● Conclusion: Write a suitable conclusion.
Introduction:
The 'Indian Renaissance' in the 19th century was a period of social, religious, and intellectual
awakening that laid the foundation for the emergence of national identity in India. This era was
marked by the rise of reform movements, revival of Indian culture, and the development of a
modern education system, all of which contributed to the growth of Indian nationalism.
Body:
Key elements of the Indian Renaissance and their connections to the formation of national
identity include:
● Social and religious reform movements:
➢ The 19th century saw numerous movements aimed at eliminating social ills, such as
caste discrimination and harmful traditional practices.
➢ Reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Jyotirao Phule spearheaded these
movements, fostering unity among diverse groups and instilling pride in Indian
culture, which contributed to national identity formation.
● Rediscovery of Indian culture and heritage: Leaders like Swami Vivekananda and Bal
Gangadhar Tilak emphasized the importance of cultural revival in building national pride
and identity, fostering a sense of shared history among Indians.
● Development of modern education: Western-educated Indians initiated social and
political discourse, inspiring others to challenge colonial rule and aspire for self-governance.
● Influence of prominent leaders and organizations: Organizations like the Brahmo Samaj,
Arya Samaj, and the Theosophical Society facilitated social and religious reforms. Leaders
such as Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Annie Besant were instrumental in advocating for India's
cultural and intellectual revival.
Conclusion:
The connections between the Indian Renaissance and the emergence of national identity laid the
groundwork for the Indian freedom struggle, ultimately leading to India's independence.

31
Q3. Many voices had strengthened and enriched the nationalist movement during the
Gandhian phase. Elaborate. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the Gandhian phase of the nationalist movement and how it was
strengthened and enriched by various voices.
● Body: Discuss the different voices that contributed to the nationalist movement during the
Gandhian phase.
● Conclusion: Summarize the importance of diverse voices in the nationalist movement
during the Gandhian phase and their role in shaping the freedom struggle.
Introduction:
The Gandhian phase of the Indian nationalist movement, spanning from the 1920s to the 1940s,
marked a period of intensified struggle against British rule. This era was characterized by the
influence of various ideological, social, and political voices that enriched and strengthened the
movement, giving it the momentum to eventually lead to India's independence.
Body:
The different voices that contributed to the nationalist movement during the Gandhian
phase include:
● Gandhian ideology and its impact:
➢ Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolent civil disobedience (Satyagraha) and
self-reliance (swaraj) became the cornerstone of the Indian nationalist movement.
➢ His campaigns, such as the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Salt March, and
the Quit India Movement, galvanized people from diverse backgrounds to join the
struggle for freedom.
● Socialists and communists: Leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhas Chandra Bose
advocated for social and economic equality, which attracted the support of workers,
peasants, and intellectuals, adding new dimensions to the freedom struggle.
● Revolutionary nationalists: Leaders like Bhagat Singh and Chandrashekhar Azad, who
believed in armed struggle to achieve independence, inspired many young Indians to join
the cause, creating a sense of urgency and sacrifice in the movement.
● Women's participation: Women like Sarojini Naidu, Kamala Nehru, and Aruna Asaf Ali
played crucial roles in various campaigns and protests, highlighting the importance of
women's empowerment and gender equality in the freedom struggle.
● Identity-based movements: Leaders like B.R. Ambedkar championed the rights of the
Dalits, while the All India Muslim League advocated for the protection of Muslim interests.
These movements not only helped mobilize a broader section of society but also highlighted
the complexities of the Indian political landscape.
Conclusion:
The Gandhian phase of the Indian nationalist movement was marked by the convergence of diverse
voices, ideologies, and social groups that enriched and strengthened the struggle for independence.
These various perspectives played a crucial role in shaping the freedom struggle, ultimately
contributing to the achievement of India's independence from British rule.

Q4. Assess the role of British imperial power in complicating the process of transfer of
power during the 1940s. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the British imperial power's role in the process of transfer of
power during the 1940s.
● Body: Discuss the various ways in which British imperial power complicated the transfer
of power.
● Conclusion: Summarize the role of British imperial power in complicating the transfer of
power and its impact on the eventual partition of India.
Introduction:
The 1940s marked a crucial period in the Indian nationalist movement, as the demand for
independence from British rule reached its peak. However, the British imperial power played a
significant role in complicating the process of transfer of power during this period, resulting in a
turbulent and challenging transition to independence.

32
Body:
The various ways in which British imperial power complicated the transfer of power
during the 1940s include:
● Divide and rule policy: This policy exacerbated communal tensions, particularly between
Hindus and Muslims, making it difficult to negotiate a united and peaceful transfer of
power.
● Cripps Mission: The Cripps Mission failed, as both the Indian National Congress and the
All India Muslim League rejected the proposal, deepening the mistrust between the British
and Indian political leaders.
● Wavell Plan and the Simla Conference: The plan failed during the Simla Conference due
to disagreements over the interpretation of parity and representation, leading to further
delays in the transfer of power.
● Cabinet Mission Plan: The mission proposed a federal structure with a weak central
government and significant autonomy for provinces. However, it was unable to secure a
consensus, and disagreements over the plan eventually led to the outbreak of communal
violence.
● Mountbatten Plan and the partition: In 1947, Lord Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India,
proposed a plan for the partition of India into two separate dominions - India and Pakistan.
The hurried and poorly executed partition led to widespread violence, displacement, and
loss of life. The legacy of the partition continues to shape the political and social landscape
of the Indian subcontinent.
Conclusion:
The role of British imperial power in complicating the process of transfer of power during the 1940s
was significant. The divide and rule policy, failed negotiations, and eventual partition of India not
only led to a turbulent transition to independence but also left a lasting impact on the region,
shaping the course of history for both India and Pakistan.

2018
Q1. Assess the importance of the accounts of the Chinese and Arab travellers in the
reconstruction of the history of India. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the significance of Chinese and Arab travelers' accounts in
reconstructing Indian history.
● Body: Identify and mention the importance of the accounts of the Chinese and Arab
travellers in the reconstruction of the history of India.
● Conclusion: Summarize the importance of Chinese and Arab travelers' accounts in
reconstructing Indian history.

Introduction:
The accounts of Chinese and Arab travelers provide an invaluable perspective on the history of
India. These accounts offer a wealth of information about the political, social, economic, and
cultural aspects of India during various time periods. Notable travelers such as Fa-Hien (5th
century CE), Hsuan Tsang (7th century CE), and Al-Biruni (11th century CE) have left detailed
records of their observations and experiences in India.
Body:
These travelogues have played a significant role in the reconstruction of India's history:
● Different viewpoints: The accounts of Chinese and Arab travelers provide a unique
perspective on India's history. As outsiders, they were able to observe and document
various aspects of Indian society without any inherent bias or vested interest.
● Political history: Accounts of Chinese and Arab travelers, such as Hsuan Tsang (7th
century CE) and Al-Biruni (11th century CE), help historians to reconstruct the political
history of various Indian empires and kingdoms and provide insights into their
administration, foreign policy, and military strength.
● Economic history: Accounts by travelers like Ibn Battuta (14th century CE) and Ma Huan
(15th century CE) have documented the trade routes, currency systems, and marketplaces

33
 in detail, which has helped historians to better understand the economic structure and
development of India during those times.
● Social and cultural history: Their accounts describe the caste system, religious practices,
education system, and various customs and traditions in detail.
● Gaps in indigenous sources: The accounts of Chinese and Arab travelers serve as valuable
supplementary sources, filling in gaps and providing a more holistic picture.
● Evidence of cultural exchange: The accounts of Chinese and Arab travelers reveal the
extent of cultural exchange between India and other parts of the world. They document the
transmission of ideas, knowledge, and technologies across the Indian subcontinent, the
Arab world, and China.
Conclusion:
The accounts of Chinese and Arab travelers have played a crucial role in the reconstruction of the
history of India. They have not only enriched our understanding of various aspects of Indian
society but have also helped to establish a more accurate and nuanced historical narrative.

Q2. Why indentured labour was taken by the British from India to their colonies? Have
they been able to preserve their cultural identity over there? (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the topic of indentured laborers from India in British colonies.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the reasons behind the British taking indentured laborers from India to
their colonies.
➢ Explain the attempts made by indentured laborers to preserve their cultural
identity in the colonies.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.
Introduction:
The British Empire relied on indentured laborers from India to meet labor demands in their
colonies after abolishing slavery in the 19th century. Despite facing hardships, these laborers
carried their rich cultural heritage with them, making efforts to preserve their identity. Their legacy
highlights the enduring power of cultural preservation and the formation of multicultural
communities worldwide.
Body:
The British took indentured laborers from India to their colonies mainly due to the
following reasons:
● The British abolished slavery in their colonies in the 19th century, which created a huge
demand for cheap labor.
● Poverty, famine, and a lack of job opportunities made many Indians willing to seek
employment overseas.
● Most indentured laborers were from rural backgrounds, and they were familiar with
agricultural practices. This made them suitable for working on plantations in the colonies.
● The British colonial administration in India facilitated the recruitment and transportation of
indentured laborers.
As for the preservation of their cultural identity, the Indian indentured laborers made efforts to
maintain their cultural heritage in the colonies. However, the extent to which they were
successful varied depending on the region and local circumstances.
● Language: Many indentured laborers continued to speak their native languages and passed
them down to subsequent generations.
● Religion: Indentured laborers brought their religious practices with them to the colonies.
They built temples and mosques, maintained their religious festivals and rituals, and
passed on their faith to their descendants. Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism are still practiced
by descendants of indentured laborers in countries like Fiji, Trinidad and Tobago,
Mauritius, and Guyana.
● Cuisine: The fusion of Indian and local food has led to unique dishes in countries like
Trinidad and Tobago, where roti and curry are now considered national dishes.
● Arts and culture: Indian indentured laborers also brought their music, dance, and other
art forms to the colonies. Over time, these artistic expressions have evolved and merged
with local cultural elements, giving rise to new forms of art.

34
Conclusion:
While Indian indentured laborers and their descendants have made efforts to preserve their
cultural identity, the process of cultural preservation has not been uniform. Factors such as
assimilation, intermarriage, and local influences have resulted in varying degrees of cultural
preservation among the descendants of Indian indentured laborers in different regions.

2017
Q1. Clarify how mid-eighteenth century India was beset with the spectre of a fragmented
polity. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the topic of political fragmentation in mid-eighteenth century
India.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the decline of the Mughal Empire and its impact on the political landscape
of India, including the power vacuum it created.
➢ Explain the rise of regional powers and how they contributed to political
fragmentation.
➢ Describe the growing influence of European powers, particularly the British and
French East India Companies, and their role in exploiting the political
fragmentation for their own benefit.
➢ Address the issue of ineffective alliances and shifting loyalties among regional
powers and European companies, further exacerbating the fragmentation.
● Conclusion: Summarize the factors that led to the fragmented polity in mid-eighteenth
century India.
Introduction:
During the mid-eighteenth century, India experienced significant political fragmentation and
instability. This situation can be attributed to various factors, including the decline of the Mughal
Empire, the rise of regional powers, and the increasing influence of European powers.
Body:
● Decline of the Mughal Empire: Weak successors, internal power struggles, and the lack
of a centralized administration led to a steady erosion of the empire's authority. As the
Mughal Empire weakened, it was unable to maintain law and order or effectively govern its
territories, which left a power vacuum in various regions.
● Rise of regional powers: As the Mughal Empire declined, several regional powers emerged
to fill the power vacuum. These powers included the Maratha Empire in the Deccan, the
Sikhs in Punjab, the Rajputs in Rajasthan, the Nawabs of Bengal, and the Nizam of
Hyderabad, among others. These regional powers often competed with each other for control
over territory and resources, further fragmenting the political landscape of India.
● European influence: The mid-eighteenth century also saw the growing presence of
European powers, primarily the British East India Company and the French East India
Company, in India.
● Ineffective alliances and shifting loyalties: The alliances formed by regional powers and
European companies were often short-lived and based on temporary convenience. As a
result, loyalties shifted frequently, and alliances were constantly being formed and broken.
This fluidity in the political landscape further exacerbated the fragmentation and instability
of the Indian polity.
Conclusion:
This intricate interplay of factors not only fostered political instability but also paved the way for
external forces to exploit the situation for their own gain. The fragmented political landscape
eventually contributed to the colonization of India, a period that would leave lasting effects on the
nation's history, culture, and socio-economic development.

Q2. Why did the ‘Moderates’ fail to carry conviction with the nation about their proclaimed
ideology and political goals by the end of the nineteenth century? (150 words, 10
Marks)
Answer:

35
Approach:
● Introduction: Begin with a brief overview of the Moderates, their ideology, and their
struggles to gain widespread support for their political goals by the end of the nineteenth
century.
● Body: Divide the body into several subsections, each addressing a specific factor that
contributed to the Moderates' failure to carry conviction with the nation.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.
Introduction:
The 'Moderates' were a prominent faction within the Indian nationalist movement during the late
nineteenth century, advocating for political and administrative reforms within the framework of
British colonial rule. However, by the end of the nineteenth century, they struggled to gain
widespread support and conviction for their ideology and political goals among the Indian
population.
Body:
● Limited objectives: They did not demand complete independence, which made their goals
less appealing to many Indians who sought total freedom from British rule.
● Constitutional methods: The Moderates believed in constitutional methods and peaceful
agitation to achieve their goals. This approach, which included petitions, memorandums,
and speeches, was perceived as weak and ineffective by many Indians who wanted more
assertive and direct actions against the British.
● Lack of mass support: The Moderates were primarily composed of educated, urban elites
who did not have deep connections with the rural population, which constituted the
majority of India.
● Economic issues: The Moderates did not adequately address the economic hardships faced
by the Indian population under British rule, such as widespread poverty, famines, and
exploitative economic policies.
● Rise of extremism: Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat
Rai advocated for more assertive and aggressive means to achieve independence, which
resonated with many Indians disillusioned with the moderate approach.
● Fragmentation of the Congress: The division between the Moderates and Extremists
within the Indian National Congress weakened the organization and diluted the
effectiveness of the nationalist movement.
● British repression: As the nationalist movement gained momentum, the British authorities
adopted repressive measures to counter it.
Conclusion:
Their approach was seen as ineffective and out of touch with the aspirations of the majority of
Indians, who sought more radical and assertive means to achieve independence.

Q3. Examine how the decline of traditional artisanal industry in colonial India crippled the
rural economy. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:
Approach:
● Introduction: Begin with a brief overview of the decline of traditional artisanal industry in
colonial India and its impact on the rural economy.
● Body: Divide the body into several subsections, each addressing a specific aspect of how
the decline of traditional artisanal industry affected the rural economy.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.
Introduction:
The decline of traditional artisanal industry in colonial India had a significant impact on the rural
economy, crippling it in several ways. Various factors contributed to this decline, including the
introduction of British economic policies, the influx of cheap imported goods, and the loss of
patronage from local elites.
Body:
The following points examine how the decline of traditional artisanal industry affected the
rural economy:
● Loss of livelihoods: As traditional artisanal industries declined, many artisans and
craftsmen lost their primary source of income. This resulted in widespread unemployment,
impoverishment, and forced migration to urban areas.

36
 ● Deindustrialization: The decline of traditional industries and the influx of cheap imported
goods from Britain resulted in deindustrialization in rural India. Local industries could not
compete with the superior technology and cheaper prices of British goods, leading to the
closure of many small-scale industries.
● Agricultural dependency: With the decline of artisanal industries, the rural population
became increasingly dependent on agriculture for their livelihoods. This led to a surplus
labor force in the agricultural sector and contributed to the fragmentation of landholdings
and declining agricultural productivity. The increased dependency on agriculture made the
rural economy more vulnerable to climatic fluctuations, famines, and other natural
disasters.
● Erosion of self-sufficiency: The decline of traditional artisanal industries forced rural
communities to rely on imported goods, eroding their self-sufficiency and making them
more dependent on external markets.
● Loss of skills and knowledge: As traditional artisanal industries declined, the valuable
skills and knowledge of artisans and craftsmen were lost.
● Drain of wealth: As more money was spent on imported goods, less was available to invest
in local industries and infrastructure, further impeding the growth of the rural economy.
● Social consequences: Artisans, once highly respected members of society, faced a decline
in their social status as their industries dwindled. This led to the disintegration of
traditional social structures and increased social tensions within rural communities.
Conclusion:
The decline of traditional artisanal industry in colonial India had a devastating impact on the rural
economy. The colonial policies and economic practices of the British further exacerbated these
issues, leaving the rural economy crippled and vulnerable.

Q4. Highlight the importance of the new objectives that got added to the vision of Indian
Independence since the twenties of the last century. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Begin with an overview of the Indian independence movement and the
evolving objectives during the 1920s that shaped the vision of a modern, secular, and
inclusive India.
● Body: Discuss the key new objectives that were added to the vision of Indian Independence
since the 1920s.
● Conclusion: Conclude, emphasizing the enduring relevance of these objectives in guiding
India's progress and development today.

Introduction:
The Indian independence movement, a struggle against British colonial rule, witnessed significant
changes in its vision and objectives since the 1920s. These new objectives expanded the scope of
the movement, emphasizing the need for a modern, secular, and inclusive nation that would
address various social, economic, and political issues.
Body:
The new objectives that shaped the vision of Indian Independence during the 1920s
include:
● Social and Economic Justice: Aiming to address issues like poverty, inequality, and
discrimination, this objective sought to create a more equitable society by providing equal
opportunities and rights for all citizens.
● Communal Harmony: Recognizing the need for unity among diverse religious and ethnic
communities, the importance of promoting communal harmony became central to the
independence movement.
● Women's Empowerment: The vision for Indian Independence expanded to include women's
rights and gender equality, with women participating in various capacities and challenging
traditional gender roles.
● Secularism: Emphasizing secularism as a fundamental principle, the vision aimed to
ensure that India would be an inclusive and pluralistic nation, accommodating its diverse
religious and cultural traditions.

37
 ● Democratic Governance: The vision evolved to include the establishment of a democratic
system of governance, allowing citizens to participate in the decision-making process and
fostering accountability and transparency.
● Self-Reliance and Economic Independence: This objective aimed to break free from the
colonial economic system and develop a self-sufficient economy, reducing dependence on
foreign resources.
Conclusion:
The new objectives that emerged since the 1920s significantly enriched the vision of Indian
Independence, providing a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to the struggle for freedom.
These objectives helped create a foundation for the modern Indian state, which emphasizes
democracy, secularism, and social justice. Furthermore, they continue to guide India's progress
and development in the post-independence era.

Q5. The women’s questions arose in modern India as a part of the 19th-century social
reform movement. What are the major issues and debates concerning women in that
period? (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce with an overview of the 19th-century social reform movement in
India and its focus on addressing women's issues as a part of the broader push for social
progress.
● Body: Discuss the major issues and debates concerning women during the 19th century.
● Conclusion: Emphasize how the movement laid the foundation for further progress in
women's rights, which continues to be an important area of focus in modern India.

Introduction:
The 19th-century social reform movement in India marked a critical period of awakening and
transformation, during which various issues faced by women were brought to the forefront. This
movement aimed to address and rectify the social customs and practices that adversely affected
women's lives and status in society.
Body:
The major issues and debates concerning women during the 19th century were as follows:
● Sati: Reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, and others
vehemently opposed this practice, leading to the enactment of the Bengal Sati Regulation in
1829, which made sati illegal.
● Female Infanticide: Female infanticide was another critical issue during the 19th century,
where girl infants were killed shortly after birth, owing to a preference for male children.
Social reformers raised awareness about the value of female lives and campaigned against
this inhuman practice.
● Child Marriage: The prevalence of child marriages during the 19th century was a
significant concern. Reformers sought to increase the minimum age of marriage for girls,
emphasizing the importance of their education and well-being. The Age of Consent Act of
1891 and the subsequent efforts by reformers like Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar played a
vital role in raising the minimum age of marriage for girls.
● Widow Remarriage: Reformers advocated for the rights of widows to remarry and lead
fulfilling lives. The Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act of 1856, championed by reformers like
Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, was a significant step in this direction.
● Women's Education: Reformers like Savitribai Phule, Jyotirao Phule, and Sir Syed
Ahmad Khan emphasized the importance of educating women, arguing that it would
empower them and contribute to the overall development of society.
● Purdah System: The purdah system, which required women to cover their faces and
remain confined within the household, was another issue of concern during the 19th
century. Social reformers argued that the purdah system stifled women's freedom and
development, advocating for its abolition.
● Women's Legal Rights: The lack of legal rights for women in matters of inheritance,
property, and marriage was another significant issue during this period. Reformers sought
to challenge traditional laws and customs, pushing for legal reforms that would grant
women equal rights and status in society.

38
Conclusion:
This social reform movement in India played a significant role in addressing women's issues and
laying the foundation for further progress in women's rights and gender equality. The debates and
reforms initiated during this period continue to influence and shape the ongoing efforts towards
gender equality in modern India.

2016
Q1. Explain how the uprising of 1857 constitutes an important watershed in the evolution
of British policies towards colonial India. (200 words, 12.5 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the uprising of 1857 and its significance as a turning point
in British policies towards colonial India.
● Body: Discuss the key changes in British policies following the uprising.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.

Introduction:
The uprising of 1857, often referred to as the Indian Rebellion or the First War of Independence,
was a pivotal event in the history of colonial India. It marked a significant turning point in the
evolution of British policies towards the region.
Body:
This watershed event had a profound impact on the administrative, economic, social, and
cultural policies that governed the region:
● Transfer of power: In 1858, the Government of India Act was passed, which dissolved the
Company and established direct British rule under the British Crown through a Secretary
of State for India. This change in governance marked a shift from an economic-centric
approach to a more politically driven administration.
● Military reorganization: The British recognized the need to restructure the Indian military
to prevent future uprisings. They decreased the proportion of Indian soldiers in the
army, increased the number of British soldiers in key positions, and reorganized the
army units to ensure that Indian soldiers were separated by caste and region.
● Administrative changes: They implemented policies that promoted Indian representation
in local government, encouraged the recruitment of Indian civil servants, and fostered the
development of Indian legislative councils. However, these measures were limited and often
only extended to the elite and educated classes.
● Land and revenue policies: They introduced permanent settlements that fixed land
revenue rates, which provided stability to landowners and reduced the risk of
dispossession. This policy aimed to create a class of loyal landowners who would support
British rule.
● Social and cultural policies: They withdrew support for certain reformist measures, such
as the abolition of Sati and the promotion of widow remarriage, in an effort to maintain
stability and avoid offending Indian sensibilities.
● Education: The British expanded their efforts to educate the Indian population, focusing on
English language instruction and promoting Western-style education.
Conclusion:
As a watershed moment, the 1857 rebellion shaped the trajectory of British colonial policies,
leaving a lasting impact on the development of modern India and laying the foundation for the
subsequent Indian independence movement.

Q2. Discuss the role of women in the freedom struggle especially during the Gandhian
phase. (200 words, 12.5 marks)
Answer:

39
Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the role of women in the Indian freedom struggle, with a
focus on their involvement during the Gandhian phase.
● Body: Discuss the various aspects of women's participation. Substantiate your views with
examples.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.

Introduction:
Women played a vital role in the Indian freedom struggle, and their involvement became
particularly prominent during the Gandhian phase. Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence
and satyagraha (passive resistance) resonated with women across India, inspiring them to actively
participate in the struggle for independence.
Body:
Listed below are some key aspects of women's involvement during the Gandhian phase:
● Mass mobilization: Women participated in large numbers in various protests,
demonstrations, and non-cooperation activities, contributing to the mass mobilization of the
Indian population against British rule.
● Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-1934): Women were actively involved in the Civil
Disobedience Movement, which included the famous Salt March or Dandi March. They
participated in the production and distribution of contraband salt, defying the British
monopoly.
● Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922): During the Non-Cooperation Movement,
women played a crucial role in promoting swadeshi (indigenous) products and boycotting
British goods. They actively spun khadi (handwoven cloth) on charkhas (spinning wheels),
which became a symbol of self-reliance and defiance against British rule.
● Leadership roles: Women leaders like Sarojini Naidu, Aruna Asaf Ali, Kamala Nehru,
Annie Besant, and Kasturba Gandhi emerged as prominent figures during the freedom
struggle. They led protests, organized meetings, and inspired other women to join the
movement. Many women were also involved in the Indian National Congress and other
political organizations, advocating for women's rights and social reforms.
● Revolutionary activities: Some women, like Bhikaji Cama and Durga Devi Vohra,
participated in revolutionary activities and supported armed resistance against British rule.
● Social reforms and women's empowerment: Gandhi advocated for women's education,
the abolition of child marriage, and widow remarriage, emphasizing the importance of
women's participation in the struggle for both political and social emancipation.
● Quit India Movement (1942): Women played an active role in the Quit India Movement,
organizing processions, strikes, and acts of civil disobedience. They also filled leadership
positions when many male leaders were arrested, ensuring the continuity of the movement.
Conclusion:
The Gandhian phase of the Indian freedom struggle saw significant participation from women, who
made valuable contributions in various capacities. Their involvement not only strengthened the
movement but also laid the groundwork for gender equality and social reforms in post-
independence India.
Q3. Highlight the differences in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma
Gandhi in the struggle for freedom. (200 words, 12.5 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi as pivotal figures
in the Indian freedom struggle.
● Body: Discuss the key differences in their philosophies and methods.
● Conclusion: Summarize the contrasting approaches of Gandhi and Bose, and highlight the
diverse nature of the Indian freedom struggle.
Introduction:
Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi were two key leaders in the Indian struggle for
freedom. Though they shared the common goal of attaining independence from British rule, their

40
approaches to achieving this objective were markedly different, reflecting the diverse nature of the
Indian freedom movement.
Body:
Listed below are some key differences in their philosophies and methods:
● Philosophy of resistance:
➢ Mahatma Gandhi believed in non-violent resistance, employing methods like civil
disobedience, non-cooperation, and satyagraha (passive resistance) to fight against
British rule.
➢ Subhash Chandra Bose advocated for a more militant and revolutionary
approach. He believed that freedom could only be attained through a decisive armed
struggle against the British.
● Leadership style:
➢ Gandhi led the Indian National Congress (INC) and its various campaigns from the
1920s to the 1940s. His leadership style was characterized by inclusivity, dialogue,
and mass mobilization.
➢ Bose was elected president of the INC twice but eventually parted ways with the
organization due to ideological differences. He went on to form the Forward Bloc
and later the Indian National Army (INA) to pursue a more radical and revolutionary
path towards independence.
● Attitude towards the British:
➢ Mahatma Gandhi aimed to secure independence through negotiations and peaceful
demonstrations, which would compel the British to recognize the legitimate
aspirations of the Indian people.
➢ Subhash Chandra Bose believed that the British would only relinquish control of
India if forced to do so through armed resistance.
● Alliances with foreign powers:
➢ Gandhi generally avoided seeking alliances with foreign powers, believing that
India's struggle for freedom should be fought by Indians and based on the principles
of non-violence and self-reliance.
➢ Bose actively sought foreign assistance to challenge British rule in India. During
World War II, he aligned with Germany, Italy, and Japan to form the INA, which
fought alongside Japanese forces in the hope of driving the British out of India.
Conclusion:
Gandhi emphasized non-violent resistance and moral persuasion, while Bose advocated for armed
struggle and revolutionary action. The divergent philosophies and methods of these two leaders
enriched the movement, demonstrating the range of ideas and strategies that ultimately
contributed to India's independence.

2015
Q1. How difficult would have been the achievement of Indian independence without
Mahatma Gandhi? Discuss. (200 words, 12.5 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the pivotal role of Mahatma Gandhi in the Indian freedom
struggle and present the counterfactual scenario of the movement without his presence.
● Body: Discuss the potential challenges and alternative outcomes in the absence of
Gandhi's leadership.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.

Introduction:
The role of Mahatma Gandhi in the Indian freedom struggle is widely acknowledged as pivotal in
shaping the movement and ultimately achieving independence from British colonial rule. As a
charismatic leader with a unique philosophy of non-violence, he managed to unite diverse factions
and mobilize the masses. However, assessing the possible trajectory of the Indian independence
movement without his presence provides an interesting counterfactual scenario.
Body:
The potential challenges and alternative scenarios in the absence of Gandhi's leadership:

41
 ●Lack of a unifying figure: Without his presence, it is possible that the Indian National
Congress (INC) and other political organizations might have struggled to maintain cohesion
and effectively mobilize the masses.
● Absence of non-violent resistance: In the absence of Gandhi, the movement may have
leaned more heavily towards revolutionary and militant approaches, potentially leading to
increased violence and resistance from the British colonial authorities.
● Moral high ground: Without his influence, the movement could have lost some of its appeal
to the international community and struggled to gain sympathy for the cause of Indian
independence.
● Slower progress on social reforms: Gandhi played a significant role in advocating for
social reforms, including women's rights, the abolition of untouchability, and communal
harmony. Without his influence, the progress on these critical issues might have been
slower, and the movement could have been hindered by internal divisions and social
tensions.
● Negotiations with the British: The absence of Gandhi might have weakened India's
position in negotiations and delayed the achievement of independence.
● Alternative leadership: In the absence of Mahatma Gandhi, other leaders such as
Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Subhash Chandra Bose would have
assumed greater prominence in the independence movement. While these leaders were
influential in their own right, it is uncertain whether they could have achieved the same
level of mass mobilization and unity that Gandhi inspired.
Conclusion:
Without his influence, the movement might have faced significant challenges in terms of unity,
strategy, moral legitimacy, social reform progress, and negotiations with the British. These
challenges underscore the crucial role Gandhi played in India's eventual achievement of
independence, highlighting the difficulty of reaching that goal without his guidance and leadership.

Q2. Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B R Ambedkar, despite having divergent approaches and
strategies, had a common goal of amelioration of the downtrodden. Elucidate. (200
words, 12.5 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and their shared
goal of amelioration of the downtrodden.
● Body: Elucidate on their divergent approaches and strategies
➢ Gandhi's focus on individual change and moral persuasion, and
➢ Ambedkar's focus on legal and constitutional means.
● Conclusion: Sum up how their shared goal contributed to significant social and political
change in India.

Introduction:
Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, two towering figures in Indian history, played significant
roles in shaping the country's struggle for independence and the crafting of its Constitution. While
they had different approaches and strategies, their shared goal was the amelioration of the
downtrodden, particularly the upliftment of the socially oppressed classes, like the Dalits.
Body:
Mahatma Gandhi
● Mahatma Gandhi, a spiritual and political leader, sought to bring about social reform
through the use of non-violent resistance and the concept of Satyagraha, which emphasized
truth and non-violence.
● He believed in the unity of all religions and the essential oneness of humanity. His
approach to social issues was rooted in the belief that change must come from within the
individual, rather than being imposed by law or government.
● To this end, he worked towards eradicating untouchability and caste discrimination by
promoting the idea of 'Harijan' or 'children of God' to refer to Dalits.
● Gandhi's efforts led to the establishment of the Harijan Sevak Sangh, an organization that
aimed to provide social and economic upliftment to the Dalits.

42
 ● Gandhi's constructive programs, including education and economic self-sufficiency, were
aimed at improving the lives of the downtrodden and promoting harmony among different
communities.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
● Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a jurist, economist, and social reformer, was a strong advocate for the
rights of Dalits and other marginalized groups. He was born into a Dalit family and
experienced caste-based discrimination first-hand, which shaped his views on social reform.
● Ambedkar believed in achieving social justice through legal and constitutional means,
focusing on education, equality, and political representation.
● As the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, he incorporated provisions that sought to
outlaw untouchability and guarantee social, economic, and political justice for all citizens.
● He also founded the Scheduled Castes Federation (later the Republican Party of India) to
promote political empowerment for marginalized communities.
Conclusion:
Despite their divergent approaches, they sought to create a more equitable society, free from caste-
based discrimination and social inequalities. Although they sometimes disagreed on strategies and
methods, their shared goal of uplifting the oppressed classes in India ultimately contributed to
significant social and political change.

2014

Q1. The third battle of Panipat was fought in 1761. Why were so many empire-shaking
battles fought at Panipat? (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the Third Battle of Panipat and mention its significance in Indian
history, highlighting that Panipat has been the site of three major battles.
● Body: Elaborate on the reasons why so many empire-shaking battles were fought at
Panipat, including its
➢ strategic location,
➢ proximity to Delhi, and
➢ open terrain.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.

Introduction:
The Third Battle of Panipat, fought on January 14, 1761, was a significant conflict between the
Maratha Empire and the Afghan king Ahmad Shah Durrani. It marked a turning point in Indian
history, leading to the decline of the Maratha Empire and the subsequent rise of the British East
India Company. Panipat, a city in the present-day state of Haryana, India, has been the site of
three major battles in Indian history (1526, 1556, and 1761).
Body:
The reasons for so many empire-shaking battles fought at Panipat can be attributed to its:
● Strategic location: Panipat is situated on the historic Grand Trunk Road, an ancient
trade route that connects the Indian subcontinent with Central Asia. This road served as a
primary route for invasions, migrations, and trade, making it a crucial location for
controlling the movement of goods, people, and armies.
● Proximity to Delhi: Panipat is located approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) north of
Delhi, the historical seat of power for many dynasties that ruled over India. As a result,
control over Panipat was vital for any power seeking to assert dominance over the Delhi
region or protect it from external threats.
● Open terrain: The flat and open terrain of Panipat provided an ideal setting for large-
scale battles involving massive armies, cavalry, and artillery. The lack of obstructions, such
as hills or dense forests, allowed armies to deploy and maneuver effectively, making it a
preferred choice for commanders to engage in decisive battles.

43
Conclusion:
The combination of these factors made Panipat a recurrent site for empire-shaking battles in
Indian history. The battles fought at Panipat determined the course of India's political landscape,
shaping the rise and fall of empires and influencing the regional balance of power.

Q2. Examine critically the various facets of economic policies of the British in India from
mid-eighteenth century till independence. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the economic policies of the British in India from the mid-
eighteenth century till independence and their impact on India's economy and society.
● Body: Critically examine the various facets of British economic policies, including revenue
administration, trade and commerce, deindustrialization, railways, and the drain of wealth,
highlighting their consequences.
● Conclusion: Summarize the overall impact of British economic policies on India and their
role in shaping the country's economic development.

Introduction:
The economic policies of the British in India from the mid-eighteenth century till independence had
a profound impact on India's economy and society. These policies were primarily shaped by the
interests of the British Empire and aimed at fulfilling its economic and political objectives.
Body:
Listed below are various facets of economic policies of the British in India from mid-
eighteenth century till independence:
● Revenue administration:
➢ The British introduced various land revenue systems in India, such as the
Permanent Settlement, Ryotwari, and Mahalwari systems.
➢ While these systems aimed to streamline revenue collection, they often resulted
in the exploitation of farmers and the concentration of wealth among a few
landholders.
➢ High revenue demands and rigid collection methods led to famines, rural
indebtedness, and the impoverishment of the peasantry.
● Trade and commerce:
➢ British economic policies promoted the export of raw materials from India to
Britain and the import of British manufactured goods to India.
➢ This led to the transformation of India's economy from a self-sufficient, diversified
economy to a colonial economy dependent on the British.
● Deindustrialization:
➢ Indian handicrafts and small-scale industries could not compete with machine-
made British goods, leading to widespread unemployment and the decline of local
industries.
➢ This process of deindustrialization severely undermined the economic self-
sufficiency of India.
● Railways:
➢ While the railways contributed to the integration of the Indian market and
improved transportation, their primary purpose was to serve British economic
interests.
➢ Moreover, the railways were financed through Indian resources, adding to the drain
of wealth from India.
● Drain of wealth:
➢ This included the repatriation of profits by British companies, salaries and pensions
of British officials, and interest payments on loans taken for infrastructure projects
like railways.
Conclusion:
These policies resulted in the impoverishment of the Indian peasantry, deindustrialization, and a
drain of wealth, which severely hampered India's economic development. While there were some
positive outcomes, such as the development of infrastructure, these benefits were largely
outweighed by the detrimental consequences of British economic policies.

44
Q3. In what ways did the naval mutiny prove to be the last nail in the coffin of British
colonial aspirations in India? (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the Royal Indian Navy Mutiny and its significance in India's
struggle for independence.
● Body: Discuss the various factors that contributed to the naval mutiny being the last nail
in the coffin of British colonial aspirations in India.
● Conclusion: Summarize how the naval mutiny marked the end of British colonial rule in
India and accelerated the process of India's independence
Introduction:
The Royal Indian Navy Mutiny, also known as the Bombay Mutiny, occurred in February 1946 and
was a significant turning point in India's struggle for independence. The mutiny involved sailors
and officers of the Royal Indian Navy, who rose against the British authorities in protest of poor
working conditions, racial discrimination, and the ongoing struggle for Indian independence.
Body:
Listed below are various factors that contributed to the naval mutiny being the last nail in
the coffin of British colonial aspirations in India:
● Widespread support: The mutiny received extensive support from the Indian population,
political leaders, and various sections of the armed forces, including the Royal Indian Air
Force and local police.
● Impact on the British administration: It exposed the vulnerability of the British colonial
government, revealing that they could no longer rely on the loyalty of Indian armed forces to
maintain control over India.
● International pressure: The naval mutiny caught the attention of the United States and
the Soviet Union, major powers in the post-WWII era. Both countries pressured the British
government to grant India independence, as maintaining colonial rule contradicted the
values of democracy and self-determination they advocated.
● Impact on the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League: The naval mutiny
brought the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League, the two main political
parties in India, closer together in their demand for immediate independence.
● Acceleration of the transfer of power: The naval mutiny was one of the last major events
in India's struggle for independence. It convinced the British government that it was no
longer feasible to maintain control over India, and they needed to expedite the transfer of
power.
Conclusion:
The Royal Indian Navy Mutiny of 1946 proved to be the last nail in the coffin of British colonial
aspirations in India. The naval mutiny accelerated the process of India's independence, marking
the end of British colonial rule and the beginning of a new chapter in India's history.

2013
Q1. Defying the barriers of age, gender and religion, the Indian women became the torch
bearer during the struggle for freedom in India. Discuss. (200 words, 10 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the topic by highlighting the role of Indian women in the
freedom struggle, emphasizing how they transcended age, gender, and religious barriers.
● Body: Discuss how Indian women became the torch bearer during the struggle for freedom
in India. Do provide examples.
● Conclusion: Emphasize the lasting impact of their involvement on women's rights and
gender equality in post-independence India.

45
Introduction:
Indian women have played a significant role in the struggle for India's freedom, defying age, gender,
and religious barriers. Their participation was not limited to a single region or community, but
encompassed women from diverse backgrounds and social strata.
Body:
The involvement of Indian women in the freedom struggle was crucial in shaping the
course of India's history:
● Early instances of female resistance: Women like Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, Rani
Chennamma of Kittur, and Begum Hazrat Mahal led armed rebellions against the British
during the early years of resistance, showcasing immense courage and leadership skills.
● Swadeshi Movement: Women from diverse backgrounds participated in the Swadeshi
Movement (1905-1908), boycotting British goods, promoting local industries, and
encouraging national education. They actively engaged in picketing and the burning of
foreign goods to protest British policies.
● Non-cooperation Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement: Indian women played a
crucial role in the Non-cooperation Movement (1920-1922) and Civil Disobedience
Movement (1930-1934), led by Mahatma Gandhi. They joined in the boycott of British
institutions, picketing liquor shops, participating in the Salt March, and breaking the salt
laws.
● Role in the Indian National Congress: Women leaders like Sarojini Naidu, Kamala Nehru,
and Annie Besant held prominent positions in the Indian National Congress, contributing to
the formulation of policies and strategies for the independence movement.
● Revolutionary activities: Women like Bhikaji Cama, Kalpana Datta, and Pritilata
Waddedar were involved in revolutionary activities, working with underground
organizations, spreading nationalist ideas, and engaging in armed confrontations with the
British authorities.
● Quit India Movement: During the Quit India Movement (1942), women like Aruna Asaf
Ali, Usha Mehta, and Sucheta Kriplani played critical roles in organizing mass protests,
operating clandestine radio stations, and leading local resistance groups.
● Mobilizing support: Indian women also contributed to the freedom struggle by mobilizing
support among the masses, raising funds, organizing relief camps, and providing shelter to
freedom fighters.
Conclusion:
The involvement of Indian women in the freedom struggle not only paved the way for India's
independence but also laid the foundation for women's rights and gender equality in post-
independence India.

Q2. Several foreigners made India their homeland and participated in various movements.
Analyze their role in the Indian struggle for freedom. (200 words, 10 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce by mentioning that numerous foreign individuals made India their
home.
● Body: Mention their diverse roles and contributions to the struggle for freedom.
● Conclusion: Summarize the significance of the foreign individuals' contributions to India's
struggle for freedom.
Introduction:
Numerous foreign individuals, inspired by India's rich culture, history, and the struggle for
freedom, made India their home and actively participated in the independence movement. They
played crucial roles in different aspects of the struggle, from providing intellectual input to actively
participating in protests and campaigns.
Body:
Some notable foreign figures who contributed to India's freedom struggle are:
● Annie Besant:
➢ Annie Besant, an Irish-born British socialist, theosophist, and women's rights
activist, played a significant role in the Indian freedom struggle.

46
 ➢ She became involved in Indian politics and joined the Indian National Congress
(INC).
➢ Besant played a key role in launching the Home Rule League movement in 1916,
which aimed at achieving self-government for India within the British Empire.
➢ Her contributions helped create awareness about India's political aspirations and
garnered support for the independence movement.
● Sister Nivedita:
➢ Sister Nivedita was a social worker, author, and disciple of Swami Vivekananda.
➢ She dedicated her life to India's cultural and national awakening.
➢ Nivedita actively supported Indian revolutionaries like Aurobindo Ghosh and
Bagha Jatin, and was known to have provided financial and moral support to
their activities.
➢ Her writings and lectures helped create awareness about the need for India's
independence and upliftment of its people.
● A. O. Hume:
➢ Allan Octavian Hume, a British civil servant, was a prominent figure in the early
phase of the Indian freedom struggle.
➢ He is best known for his role in founding the Indian National Congress (INC) in
1885.
➢ Although Hume's vision for the INC was initially limited to facilitating
communication between the British administration and the Indian people, the
organization later evolved into a major platform for the struggle for Indian
independence.
● Mira Alfassa (The Mother):
➢ Mira Alfassa, also known as The Mother, was a French national who became a
spiritual collaborator of Sri Aurobindo.
➢ She played an essential role in spreading Aurobindo's spiritual and nationalist ideas
in India and abroad.
➢ While her primary focus was on spiritual work, her support for Indian nationalists
and their cause contributed to the broader struggle for Indian independence.
Conclusion:
They brought diverse perspectives, skills, and support to the independence movement, thereby
enriching and strengthening it. Their involvement in the freedom struggle is a testament to the
universal appeal of the Indian cause and the shared values of justice, freedom, and equality.

Q3. In many ways, Lord Dalhousie was the founder of modern India. Elaborate. (200 words,
10 marks)
Answer:
Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce Lord Dalhousie and his role as the Governor-General of
India, setting the context for his contributions to modern India.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the key reforms and policies introduced by Lord Dalhousie.
➢ Explain how these policies and reforms contributed to the development of modern
India.
● Conclusion: Summarize the impact of Lord Dalhousie's policies and reforms,
acknowledging both the positive contributions to the development of modern India and the
potential drawbacks or negative consequences.
Introduction:
James Andrew Broun-Ramsay, better known as Lord Dalhousie, was a prominent British
statesman who served as the Governor-General of India from 1848 to 1856. His tenure marked a
transformative period in Indian history, as he initiated a series of far-reaching reforms and policies
that not only expanded the territorial reach of the British Empire but also laid the groundwork for
the emergence of modern India.
Body:
Listed below are some ways in which Lord Dalhousie contributed to the shaping of modern
India:
● Doctrine of Lapse: Lord Dalhousie introduced the Doctrine of Lapse, a policy that allowed
the British East India Company to annex any princely state where the ruler died

47
 without a biological heir. This led to the expansion of British territory in India, further
consolidating their rule.
● Railway and Telegraph System: Lord Dalhousie played a pivotal role in the establishment
of the first railway line in India, which connected Bombay and Thane. He also laid the
groundwork for the telegraph system, which significantly improved communication
across the country.
● Modern Education: He was a strong proponent of modern education and encouraged the
establishment of universities in India. Under his guidance, the Universities of Calcutta,
Bombay, and Madras were founded in 1857, which helped spread modern education and
foster a new generation of Indian intellectuals.
● Public Works Department (PWD): Lord Dalhousie established the Public Works
Department, responsible for the construction and maintenance of infrastructure such
as roads, bridges, and canals.
● Postal System: He introduced a uniform postage system, which standardized postal rates
and made the postal service more efficient and accessible to the masses. This reform
facilitated better communication and helped integrate the vast Indian subcontinent.
● Administrative Reforms: Lord Dalhousie introduced several administrative reforms, such
as the appointment of Lieutenant Governors in provinces, which aimed to centralize
and streamline the administration.
Conclusion:
While Lord Dalhousie's contributions to the development of modern India cannot be denied, it is
important to note that many of his policies and reforms were driven by the interests of the British
Empire. Some of his policies, such as the Doctrine of Lapse, were deeply unpopular among Indians
and contributed to the growing discontent that eventually led to the First War of Indian
Independence in 1857.



48
POST-INDEPENDENCE
INDIA

49
 2022

Q1. The political and administrative reorganization of states and territories has been a
continuous ongoing process since the mid-nineteenth century. Discuss with examples.
(250 words, 15 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the topic of political and administrative reorganization in
India.
● Body:
➢ Explain the historical background of political and administrative reorganization in
India, citing examples of significant events and policies that shaped the process.
➢ Discuss the major phases of reorganization, including the colonial period, post-
independence period, and contemporary times.
➢ Provide examples of important policies and laws that were enacted during each
phase.
● Conclusion: Sum up by highlighting the impact of reorganization on the socio-economic
and political landscape of India.

Introduction:
The political and administrative reorganization of states and territories in India has been a
continuous process since the mid-nineteenth century, driven by factors such as linguistic and
cultural differences, historical factors, administrative efficiency, and regional aspirations.
Body:
The political and administrative reorganization of states and territories in India can be traced back
to the mid-nineteenth century. The process of political and administrative reorganization in
India can be broadly divided into three phases:
The Colonial Period:
● The British colonial government initiated several administrative reforms, such as the
introduction of the princely state system and the creation of provinces and presidencies
such as the formation of the Bengal Presidency, Bombay Presidency, and Madras
Presidency.
Post-Independence Period:
● Post-Independence Reorganization (1950s): After India gained independence in 1947, the
process of reorganizing states and territories was initiated to address linguistic, cultural,
and administrative concerns. For example: States Reorganisation Act of 1956; formation of
linguistic states like Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Karnataka.
●
Creation of Northeastern States (1960s-1970s): The reorganization in the northeastern
region led to the creation of states like Nagaland (1963), Meghalaya (1972), and Mizoram
(1987).
Contemporary Times:
● Formation of Smaller States (2000): In the year 2000, three new states were created to
improve administrative efficiency and address regional aspirations. These states were
Chhattisgarh (carved out of Madhya Pradesh), Uttarakhand (carved out of Uttar Pradesh),
and Jharkhand (carved out of Bihar).
● Telangana State Formation (2014): The demand for a separate state of Telangana had
been a longstanding issue in Andhra Pradesh. In 2014, Telangana was officially formed as
the 29th state of India, after a long political struggle and extensive negotiations.
● Reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir (2019): The reorganization of Jammu and
Kashmir in 2019 led to the bifurcation of the state into two union territories: Jammu and
Kashmir, and Ladakh. This decision was taken to address the issues of national security,
governance, and development in the region.
Several policies and laws have been enacted to facilitate the process of political and
administrative reorganization in India:
● During the colonial period, the Government of India Act of 1858 and the Indian Councils
Act of 1861 laid the foundation for administrative reforms.

50
 ● After independence, the States Reorganization Act of 1956 and the creation of union
territories marked significant milestones in the process of reorganization.
Conclusion:
The process of political and administrative reorganization has had a significant impact on the
socio-economic and political landscape of India. It has facilitated greater regional representation
and improved administrative efficiency. However, it has also led to issues such as inter-state
disputes and ethnic tensions. The creation of new states and territories has provided opportunities
for regional development and has helped in the decentralization of power.

2021
Q1. Assess the main administrative issues and socio-cultural problems in the integration
process of Indian Princely States. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the context of integrating Indian Princely States into the
newly-independent Indian Union.
● Body:
➢ Mention the complexity of addressing administrative issues and socio-cultural
problems during the process.
➢ Divide the body into two main sections: Administrative Issues and Socio-Cultural
Problems.
➢ In each section, discuss the key challenges faced during the integration process.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.

Introduction:
The integration of Indian Princely States into the newly-independent Indian Union was a complex
and challenging process. It involved addressing various administrative issues and socio-cultural
problems that arose during the unification of these diverse territories, including examples like
Jammu & Kashmir and Hyderabad.
Body:
Administrative Issues:
● Political Integration: The primary challenge was the political integration of more than 500
princely states, which were autonomous territories ruled by local rulers and protected by
the British Crown. For example, the cases of Jammu & Kashmir and Hyderabad
required extensive negotiations and, in the case of Hyderabad, a military operation
(Operation Polo) to secure their integration.
● Bureaucratic Structure: The integration process required the establishment of a uniform
bureaucratic structure across the newly-joined states. This involved merging the existing
bureaucratic systems of princely states like Travancore, Mysore, and Baroda with the
Indian administrative system, which often led to jurisdictional conflicts and issues related
to hierarchy.
● Boundary Disputes: The integration process sometimes resulted in disputes over territorial
claims and boundaries, as seen in the case of Junagadh, which required diplomatic
resolution or legal intervention.
Socio-Cultural Problems:
● Ethnic and Linguistic Diversity: The princely states were incredibly diverse in terms of
language, culture, and ethnicity. The integration process required the Indian government to
find ways to accommodate and address these differences within a unified political
framework, which sometimes led to tensions among various ethnic and linguistic groups.
● Religious Differences: The integration process required addressing religious sensitivities
and ensuring the protection of minority religious groups within a secular Indian Union. For
example, the integration of Jammu & Kashmir required special provisions to protect
the Muslim majority population in the region.
● Caste System: The integration process required the Indian government to address these
inequalities by implementing constitutional provisions that abolished untouchability and
promoted social justice.

51
 ● Economic Disparities: The integration process required the central government to
implement economic policies and developmental programs to bridge these gaps and ensure
equitable growth. States like Hyderabad and Mysore, which had relatively advanced
economies, needed to be integrated into the larger Indian economy.

Conclusion:
The integration of Indian Princely States into the Indian Union was an intricate and challenging
process, which involved addressing numerous administrative and socio-cultural issues. Diplomatic
efforts, legal interventions, and policy measures were employed to resolve these challenges and
ensure a smooth transition. Despite the complexities, the successful integration of these diverse
territories ultimately played a vital role in the creation of a unified and democratic India.

2020
(No Question asked)

2019
(No Question asked)

2018
Q1. Throw light on the significance of the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi in the present times.
(150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the relevance of Mahatma Gandhi's thoughts in the
present times, highlighting their continued impact and influence on societies worldwide.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the key aspects of Gandhi's philosophy that remain relevant today.
➢ Provide examples of how these principles can be applied to contemporary issues
and challenges faced by individuals and societies today.
● Conclusion: Summarize the importance of Gandhi's thoughts in present times and
emphasize the need to continue applying these principles to build a more peaceful, just,
and sustainable world.
Introduction:
Mahatma Gandhi's thoughts and principles remain highly significant in present times as they
continue to provide guidance and inspiration for individuals and societies across the world.
Body:
Some key aspects of Gandhi's philosophy that continue to be relevant today include:
● Non-violence (Ahimsa): The philosophy of nonviolence urges people to respond to conflicts
and injustices with peaceful means rather than through aggression or violence. It has been
a source of inspiration for many global movements advocating for social justice, equality,
and human rights.
● Truth (Satyagraha): In a world plagued by misinformation, fake news, and propaganda,
adhering to the principles of truth and honesty is more important than ever.
● Swaraj (Self-rule): His idea of Swaraj encourages people to be responsible citizens, making
decisions based on the welfare of the entire community. In the present era of globalization,
the principle of Swaraj can help communities maintain their cultural identities and
empower them to be self-reliant.
● Simplicity and minimalism: Gandhi's belief in simple living and high thinking remains
relevant in today's consumer-driven society. By embracing minimalism and reducing our
dependence on material possessions, we can lead more meaningful lives and reduce our
impact on the environment.
● Environmental sustainability: His principles remind us to respect the environment,
conserve resources, and strive for sustainable development.

52
 ● Social justice and equality: Gandhi's relentless fight against social injustices like
untouchability, caste discrimination, and gender inequality remains an inspiration for
contemporary social movements.
● Education for all: His emphasis on holistic education, focused on the development of the
mind, body, and spirit, can guide modern educational systems to foster well-rounded
individuals who contribute positively to society.
Conclusion:
His principles of nonviolence, truth, self-rule, simplicity, environmental sustainability, social
justice, and holistic education provide a roadmap for individuals and societies to address
contemporary challenges and work towards a more peaceful, just, and sustainable world.

Q2. Discuss whether formation of new states in recent times is beneficial or not for the
economy of India? (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: You can introduce by explaining the rationale behind the formation of new
states.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the potential benefits of forming new states.
➢ Examine the potential drawbacks of forming new states.
➢ Analyze specific case studies of new state formations in India, such as
Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh, to assess their economic impact.
● Conclusion: Provide a balanced perspective, emphasizing that the overall outcome
depends on factors such as governance, resource allocation, and inclusive development
policies.
Introduction:
The formation of new states in India has been a topic of debate in recent times, as it raises
questions about its impact on the country's economy. The rationale behind the formation of new
states often revolves around administrative efficiency, better governance, cultural or linguistic
identities, and economic development.
Body:
Potential benefits of forming new states:
● Enhanced focus on regional development and resource allocation: Smaller states can
focus more on regional development and allocate resources effectively based on local needs,
which may lead to better economic outcomes.
● Improved governance and service delivery: A smaller administrative area can enable the
government to provide better governance, ensuring that public services and welfare
programs are more efficiently delivered to the citizens.
● Greater political representation and empowerment for marginalized groups: New states
can provide enhanced political representation for marginalized groups, giving them a
stronger voice in governance and policy-making.
● Healthy competition among states: The formation of new states can foster healthy
competition among them, motivating them to adopt best practices and work towards faster
economic growth.
Potential drawbacks of forming new states:
● Initial administrative and infrastructural costs: The formation of new states entails
significant initial costs, including setting up new administrative structures, infrastructure,
and other requirements, which may strain the economy.
● Potential for inter-state disputes: The creation of new states might lead to disputes over
resources, borders, and other issues, which could hamper economic growth and
development.
● Possible regionalism and fragmentation of national identity: The formation of new
states based on cultural or linguistic lines can potentially fuel regionalism and weaken the
sense of national unity, affecting overall economic development.
● Short-term economic disruption: The transition period after the formation of a new state
can cause short-term disruptions in the economy, as new systems and processes are put in
place.
Case studies of new state formations in India, such as Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, and
Chhattisgarh, have shown mixed results in terms of their economic impact. While some states

53
have witnessed improvements in governance, development indicators, and economic growth, others
have faced challenges related to resource allocation and political stability.
Conclusion:
The formation of new states in India and its impact on the economy is a complex issue with both
potential benefits and drawbacks. It is essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making
decisions on the formation of new states and to adopt a long-term, holistic approach to ensure
sustainable economic development and social welfare.

2017
(No Question asked)

2016
Q1. Has the formation of linguistic states strengthened the cause of Indian unity? (200
words, 12.5 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the topic by briefly discussing the formation of linguistic states in
India and their intended purpose of accommodating the country's diverse linguistic and
cultural identities.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the positive impacts of linguistic states on Indian unity.
➢ Examine the challenges to Indian unity posed by linguistic states.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.
Introduction:
The formation of linguistic states in India has been a significant factor in the country's
administrative and political landscape since independence. The reorganization of states based on
linguistic lines aimed to accommodate the diverse cultural and linguistic identities of the Indian
population.
Body:
Positive impacts of linguistic states on Indian unity:
● Accommodating diversity: The formation of linguistic states has enabled the
accommodation of India's diverse linguistic and cultural identities, allowing different groups
to preserve and promote their unique traditions and languages while being part of the
broader Indian fabric.
● Better governance: Linguistic states have facilitated more effective governance, as it is
easier for state governments to cater to the needs of a relatively homogeneous population.
This has contributed to the overall stability and unity of the country.
● Reduced inter-community tensions: By providing linguistic communities with a political
and administrative platform, linguistic states have reduced the scope for conflicts and
tensions between different linguistic groups, fostering a sense of unity and harmony.
● Strengthened federalism: Linguistic states have reinforced India's federal structure,
ensuring a more equitable distribution of resources and powers among different regions and
communities, which has contributed to national unity.
Challenges to Indian unity posed by linguistic states:
● Rise of regionalism: In some instances, the formation of linguistic states has given rise to
regionalism and parochialism, leading to a stronger emphasis on regional identities and
potentially weakening the sense of national unity.
● Inter-state disputes: Linguistic states have sometimes led to disputes over resources,
borders, and sharing of river waters, which can create friction between neighboring states
and pose challenges to national unity.
● Political exploitation: In some cases, political parties and leaders have exploited linguistic
identities for their electoral gains, leading to the polarization of communities along linguistic
lines and posing a threat to national unity.

54
Conclusion:
The key to preserving and strengthening Indian unity lies in striking a balance between respecting
linguistic and cultural diversity and promoting a strong sense of national identity. Maintaining this
balance requires effective governance, inclusive development policies, and a focus on promoting
national integration through education and cultural exchange.

2015
Q1. It would have been difficult for the Constituent Assembly to complete its historic task of
drafting the Constitution for Independent India in just three years but its experience gained
with the Government of India Act, 1935. Discuss. (200 words, 12.5 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the Constituent Assembly's role in drafting the
Constitution for Independent India and mention the influence of the Government of India
Act, 1935, on the process.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the background and influence of the Government of India Act, 1935,
highlighting its key provisions and how it provided practical experience for the
Constituent Assembly members.
➢ Examine the contributions of the Government of India Act, 1935, to the drafting of
the Constitution.
➢ Analyze the limitations of the Government of India Act, 1935, and the modifications
made by the Constituent Assembly to create a progressive and inclusive
Constitution for Independent India.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.
Introduction:
The Constituent Assembly of India played a crucial role in drafting the Constitution for
Independent India. The assembly, consisting of members from various political, social, and cultural
backgrounds, successfully completed its historic task in just three years (1947-1949). The
experience gained by the assembly members with the Government of India Act, 1935, played a
significant role in achieving this feat.
Body:
Background and influence of the Government of India Act, 1935:
● The Government of India Act, 1935 introduced several key concepts, such as provincial
autonomy, a federal structure, and a comprehensive system of governance.
● Many of the members in the Constituent Assembly had firsthand experience with the
workings of the Government of India Act, 1935, either as legislators, administrators, or
activists. This experience provided them with a practical understanding of governance and
the challenges faced by a diverse nation like India.
Contributions of the Government of India Act, 1935, to the drafting of the Constitution:
● The structure of governance: The Act provided a blueprint for India's federal structure,
including the division of powers between the center and the provinces (later states).
● Administrative provisions: The Act served as a reference point for designing the
administrative machinery, including the roles and responsibilities of the President,
Governor, and other officials.
● Bureaucratic framework: The Act's provisions on the civil services and public
administration helped shape the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and other essential
services in the Constitution.
● Fundamental Rights: The Act's provisions on personal liberties and rights laid the
groundwork for the eventual incorporation of Fundamental Rights into the Constitution.
● Judiciary: The Act's design of the judicial system, including the Federal Court's
establishment, influenced the creation of the Supreme Court of India and the overall
judicial structure.
Limitations and modifications in the Constitution:
● Despite the influence of the Government of India Act, 1935, the assembly made several
significant modifications and departures from the Act to ensure the new Constitution was
progressive, inclusive, and suited to India's unique needs.

55
 ● Some of these changes included the adoption of a comprehensive list of Fundamental
Rights, the Directive Principles of State Policy, the abolition of separate electorates, and the
establishment of a strong central government to maintain unity and integrity.
Conclusion:
The Act provided a foundation upon which the assembly could build and adapt according to the
aspirations of the newly independent nation. However, the assembly also made significant
departures from the Act to ensure that the Constitution was progressive, inclusive, and reflective of
the values of a democratic India.

2014
(No Question asked)

2013
Q1. Write a critical note on the evolution and significance of the slogan “Jai Jawan Jai
Kisan”. (200 words, 10 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the slogan "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan" and mention the context and the
period in which it was coined.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the evolution of the slogan.
➢ Analyze the significance of the slogan.
● Conclusion: Highlight the continued relevance of the slogan in contemporary India.
Introduction:
The slogan "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan" (meaning "Hail the Soldier, Hail the Farmer") holds immense
significance in India's history and continues to resonate in the nation's consciousness. It was
coined by India's second Prime Minister, Lal Bahadur Shastri, in 1965 during a period of national
crisis. The slogan reflects the importance of soldiers and farmers in ensuring the nation's security,
self-sufficiency, and prosperity.
Body:
Evolution of the slogan:
● The slogan "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan" emerged in the mid-1960s when India faced challenges
like a war with Pakistan and a food crisis.
● Prime Minister Shastri introduced the slogan to unite the nation and address the urgent
need for stronger defense and improved agriculture, highlighting the crucial roles of soldiers
and farmers in ensuring national security and food security.
Significance of the slogan:
● Unifying force: "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan" promoted patriotism and unity during a national
crisis, emphasizing collective effort and shared responsibility for overcoming challenges.
● Emphasis on Self-reliance: The slogan inspired investments in agriculture, leading to the
Green Revolution, which transformed India's agricultural landscape, increasing productivity
and fostering self-sufficiency in food production.
● Recognition of soldiers: The slogan highlighted soldiers' and farmers' crucial roles in
India's security and prosperity, instilling pride and respect for these professions.
● Lasting impact: "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan" remains a reminder of soldiers' and farmers'
importance to India's well-being and has been adapted to address contemporary issues,
such as adding "Jai Vigyan" to emphasize science and technology's role in development.
Conclusion:
As a powerful rallying cry, it has left a lasting impact on the nation's political and social fabric and
continues to inspire generations to uphold India's spirit of resilience, unity, and progress.
Q2. Discuss the contribution of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad to pre-and post independent India.
(200 words, 10 marks)
Answer:

56
Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce Maulana Abul Kalam Azad's role as a freedom fighter,
political leader, and scholar in both pre-and post-independent India.
● Body: Discuss his contribution in pre- and post independent India.
● Conclusion: Conclude, emphasizing his impact on nation-building, unity, and inclusive
development.
Introduction:
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was a prominent Indian scholar, freedom fighter, and political leader
who played a significant role in both pre-and post-independent India. As a key figure in the Indian
National Congress (INC) and the first Minister of Education in independent India, his contributions
spanned various fields, including education, national integration, and the freedom struggle.
Body:
Contribution to Pre-Independent India:
● Freedom struggle: Maulana Azad was an active freedom fighter, advocating non-violence
and Hindu-Muslim unity. He served as INC president in 1923 and 1940-1946.
● Opposition to the Two-Nation Theory: Azad opposed Jinnah's Two-Nation Theory and
promoted a united, harmonious India for all religions and cultures.
● Journalism and literary works: As a journalist and writer, Azad founded the Urdu
newspaper Al-Hilal and authored "India Wins Freedom," contributing to Indian
nationalism and sharing his vision for a united India.
Contribution to Post-Independent India:
● Minister of Education: Maulana Azad established India's modern education system,
promoting research, creating institutions like IITs and UGC, and enhancing education
access for all.
● Promotion of Culture and heritage: Azad set up institutions like Sahitya Akademi, Lalit
Kala Akademi, and Sangeet Natak Akademi to preserve and promote India's cultural
heritage.
● National integration: Committed to unity and harmony, Azad emphasized secularism and
inclusive education, contributing to nation-building in early independent India.
Conclusion:
His leadership in the freedom struggle, commitment to national integration, and pioneering efforts
in the field of education laid the foundation for modern India and continue to inspire generations to
uphold the principles of unity, secularism, and inclusive development.

Q3. Critically discuss the objectives of Bhoodan and Gramdan movements initiated by
Acharya Vinoba Bhave and their success. (200 words, 10 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the Bhoodan and Gramdan movements, initiated by Acharya
Vinoba Bhave, as efforts to address landlessness and promote equitable land distribution
in rural India.
● Body:
➢ Write the objectives of Bhoodan and Gramdan movements.
➢ Also, do the critical assessment of its success.
● Conclusion: Conclude, emphasizing their role in raising awareness, inspiring land
reforms, and leaving a lasting impact on India's rural development discourse.
Introduction:
The Bhoodan and Gramdan movements, initiated by Acharya Vinoba Bhave in the 1950s, aimed to
address landlessness and promote equitable land distribution in rural India. Bhoodan
encouraged voluntary land donations for redistribution, while Gramdan focused on creating self-
governing communities with collective land ownership and management.
Body:
Objectives of Bhoodan and Gramdan Movements:
● Address landlessness: The primary objective of these movements was to mitigate
landlessness by persuading large landowners to voluntarily donate a portion of their land to
the landless poor.

57
 ● Promote social harmony: The movements aimed to reduce social and economic disparities
between the rich landowners and the landless poor.
● Encourage community self-governance: Gramdan, in particular, sought to establish self-
governing village communities where land was owned and managed collectively. This was
expected to strengthen local governance, empower villagers, and promote democratic values
at the grassroots level.
● Implement Gandhian principles: They were considered as an extension of Gandhi's vision
of "Gram Swaraj" or village self-rule.
Critical Assessment of Success:
● Land donations: The Bhoodan movement did achieve some success in terms of land
donations. However, the actual land redistributed among the landless poor was significantly
less than the donated land, due to various factors such as poor land records, legal disputes,
and reluctance among some landowners.
● Limited impact on landlessness: Although the movements aimed to address landlessness,
their overall impact on this issue was limited. The land acquired through Bhoodan was
often infertile, fragmented, or insufficient to sustain the landless families.
● Gramdan's mixed outcomes: The Gramdan movement had some success in certain
regions, with several villages adopting collective land ownership and self-governance.
However, it failed to gain widespread acceptance, partly due to deeply entrenched social
hierarchies and resistance from powerful landowning classes.
● Short-lived momentum: The initial enthusiasm for the Bhoodan and Gramdan movements
waned over time. As government policies, such as land ceiling laws and land reforms, were
introduced, the focus shifted away from these voluntary movements.
Conclusion:
The Bhoodan and Gramdan movements by Acharya Vinoba Bhave made progress in land
redistribution and rural self-governance but faced limited success due to challenges like
administrative issues, social structures, and landlessness scale. Nevertheless, they raised
awareness, inspired land reforms, and impacted India's rural development discourse.

Q4. Analyse the circumstances that led to Tashkent Agreement in 1966. Discuss the
highlights of the agreement. (200 words, 10 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the Tashkent Agreement as a diplomatic effort between India and
Pakistan following the 1965 Indo-Pak War to restore peace and stability in the region.
● Body:
➢ Talk about the circumstances that led to the Tashkent Agreement.
➢ Mention the highlights of the agreement.
● Conclusion: Summarize the importance of the Tashkent Agreement in restoring peace and
normalizing relations between India and Pakistan, despite not achieving a lasting
resolution for underlying issues like the Kashmir dispute.
Introduction:
The Tashkent Agreement was signed on January 10, 1966, between India and Pakistan, following
the 1965 Indo-Pak War. It aimed to restore normal diplomatic relations and promote peace in the
region.
Body:
Circumstances that led to the Tashkent Agreement:
● The 1965 Indo-Pak War: The Tashkent Agreement was primarily triggered by the 1965
Indo-Pak War, which started with border skirmishes in the Rann of Kutch and escalated
into a full-scale conflict over Jammu and Kashmir.
● International pressure: During the Cold War, the US and Soviet Union were concerned
about India-Pakistan conflict escalation, fearing regional implications and potential
involvement.
● Ceasefire and peace talks: The UN Security Council passed Resolution 211, calling for a
ceasefire between India and Pakistan. The Soviet Union, led by Premier Kosygin, mediated
peace talks, resulting in the Tashkent Conference.

58
Highlights of the Tashkent Agreement:
● Withdrawal of troops: Both India and Pakistan agreed to withdraw their respective troops
to pre-war positions by February 25, 1966. This led to a de-escalation of military tensions
along the borders.
● Restoration of diplomatic relations: The Tashkent Agreement provided for the restoration
of normal diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries, which had been
severed during the war.
● Exchange of prisoners of war: Both countries agreed to exchange prisoners of war and
return the captured territories as per the pre-war status.
● No territorial gains: Despite the large-scale conflict, neither India nor Pakistan gained any
significant territorial advantage from the war.
● Non-interference in internal affairs: Both countries agreed to respect each other's
territorial integrity and sovereignty and committed to non-interference in each other's
internal affairs.
● Peaceful settlement of disputes: The Tashkent Agreement also called for a peaceful
settlement of all outstanding disputes between India and Pakistan, including the issue of
Jammu and Kashmir, through negotiations and diplomatic channels.
Conclusion:
The Tashkent Agreement was a crucial diplomatic effort to restore peace and stability in the region
following the 1965 Indo-Pak War. Although it did not lead to a long-lasting resolution of the
underlying issues between India and Pakistan, particularly the Kashmir dispute, it played a
significant role in de-escalating military tensions and normalizing diplomatic relations between the
two nations.

Q5. Critically examine the compulsions which prompted India to play a decisive role in the
emergence of Bangladesh. (200 words, 10 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce India's role in Bangladesh's emergence in 1971 as a defining
moment in South Asian history, highlighting the interplay of humanitarian, strategic, and
geopolitical factors.
● Body: Critically examine the compulsions which prompted India to play a decisive role in
the emergence of Bangladesh.
● Conclusion: Conclude, highlighting the importance of understanding regional relations
and decision-making in times of crisis.
Introduction:
India's role in Bangladesh's emergence in 1971 highlights the complex interplay of humanitarian,
strategic, and geopolitical factors driving its decisive intervention in shaping a neighboring nation's
future.
Body:
Listed below are the factors that prompted India to play a decisive role in the emergence of
Bangladesh:
● Humanitarian crisis: The brutal crackdown by the Pakistani military in East Pakistan (now
Bangladesh) in 1971 led to a massive humanitarian crisis. Millions of refugees, primarily
Bengali-speaking Hindus, fled to India to escape persecution, placing immense strain on
India's resources and infrastructure. India's intervention was partly driven by the urgent
need to address this humanitarian catastrophe.
● Strategic interests: East Pakistan's struggle for independence provided India with an
opportunity to weaken its rival, Pakistan. A weakened and divided Pakistan would help
reduce the security threat posed by Pakistan's military, particularly on India's eastern front.
● Geopolitical considerations: India's intervention in the Bangladesh Liberation War was
also influenced by Cold War dynamics. Pakistan had the support of the United States and
China, while India sought support from the Soviet Union. By aiding Bangladesh, India
sought to counterbalance the influence of the US and China in the region and strengthen
its strategic partnership with the Soviet Union.
● Regional stability: India was concerned about the impact of the crisis in East Pakistan on
regional stability. The influx of refugees and the potential for the conflict to spill over
into India's territory could have had serious consequences for India's national security
and regional peace.

59
Conclusion:
The emergence of Bangladesh remains a significant milestone in South Asian history, illustrating
the complex dynamics that influence regional relations and decision-making in times of crisis.



60
WORLD HISTORY

61
 2022

No Question asked)

2021
Q1. “There arose a serious challenge to the Democratic State System between the two World
Wars.” Evaluate the statement. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the challenges faced by the democratic state system during
the interwar period.
● Body: Mention the key factors that contributed to the erosion of democracy.
● Conclusion: Summarize the challenges faced by the democratic state system and highlight
how these challenges ultimately led to the outbreak of World War II and significant
changes in the international order.
Introduction:
The period between the two World Wars (1919-1939) witnessed an array of challenges that shook
the foundations of the democratic state system. This interwar era, characterized by political
upheaval, economic instability, and social transformation, saw democracies struggle to maintain
their footing amid a rapidly changing global landscape.
Body:
Economic crises and the failure of democracies to address them:
● The Great Depression (1929-1933) had a devastating impact on the global economy,
leading to high unemployment, poverty, and social unrest.
● Democratic governments struggled to cope with the crisis, leading to a loss of faith in
democratic institutions and paving the way for radical ideologies.
The rise of totalitarian regimes:
● Fascism in Italy: Benito Mussolini's rise to power in 1922 marked the beginning of a
fascist regime that suppressed dissent and eroded democratic principles.
● Nazism in Germany: The economic crisis provided Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party with an
opportunity to seize power in 1933, leading to the establishment of a totalitarian regime
marked by extreme nationalism, antisemitism, and aggression.
● The Soviet Union: Joseph Stalin's consolidation of power led to the strengthening of a
totalitarian communist regime, which suppressed opposition and pursued aggressive
foreign policies.
Weaknesses in the League of Nations:
● The League of Nations, established after World War I to maintain peace and promote
diplomacy, was unable to enforce its decisions and prevent the rise of totalitarian regimes.
● The absence of the United States and the Soviet Union from the League, as well as the
failure of member nations to commit to collective security, weakened the organization's
ability to preserve the democratic state system.
Policy of appeasement:
● The policy of appeasement pursued by Western democracies, particularly France and the
United Kingdom, allowed the aggressive expansion of totalitarian regimes, further
destabilizing the democratic state system.
● The Munich Agreement of 1938, which allowed Nazi Germany to annex parts of
Czechoslovakia, is a notable example of the failure of appeasement and the weakening of
the democratic state system.
Conclusion:
The challenges faced by the democratic state system between the two World Wars were significant
and far-reaching. The failure of democracies to address economic crises, the rise of totalitarian
regimes, the weaknesses of the League of Nations, and the policy of appeasement collectively
contributed to the erosion of the democratic state system. These challenges ultimately led to the
outbreak of World War II and significant changes in the international order.

62
 2020
(No Question asked)

2019

Q1. Explain how the foundations of the modern world were laid by the American and
French Revolutions. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the American and French Revolutions as pivotal events that
shaped the modern world.
● Body: Discuss their contributions to modern political, social, and economic thought.
➢ The American Revolution (1775-1783) and its impact.
➢ The French Revolution (1789-1799) and its impact.
➢ The commonalities and differences between the two revolutions.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.
Introduction:
The American and French Revolutions stand as two of the most transformative events in world
history, fundamentally altering the political, social, and economic landscape of their time. The
revolutions, fueled by Enlightenment ideas, laid the groundwork for the modern world by
challenging traditional monarchies, advocating for individual rights, and promoting democratic
principles.
Body:
The American Revolution (1775-1783) and its impact:
● The American Revolution was heavily influenced by Enlightenment thought, with
philosophers such as John Locke, Montesquieu, and Rousseau informing the principles
of self-government, natural rights, and the social contract.
● The revolution led to the formation of a democratic government in the United States,
with the adoption of the U.S. Constitution in 1787, which established a federal system
and the protection of individual rights through the Bill of Rights.
● The U.S. Constitution incorporated the idea of separation of powers and checks and
balances, ensuring that no single branch of government could dominate and maintaining a
balance of power.
● The success of the American Revolution inspired other nations seeking independence
and self-governance, including the subsequent French Revolution.
The French Revolution (1789-1799) and its impact:
● The French Revolution marked the collapse of the French monarchy and the
traditional social order, signaling the end of absolutism and the rise of secular,
democratic governance.
● This landmark document, adopted in 1789, enshrined the principles of liberty, equality,
and fraternity, asserting the rights of individuals and the idea of popular sovereignty.
● The revolution fostered a strong sense of nationalism, emphasizing the collective will of
the people and promoting the concept of self-determination.
● The French Revolution sent shockwaves throughout Europe, inspiring further
revolutionary movements and challenging traditional monarchies, ultimately leading to
the rise of Napoleon and a period of conflict and change.
The commonalities and differences between the two revolutions:
● Both revolutions were inspired by Enlightenment ideals, emphasizing the importance of
reason, liberty, and individual rights.
● While the American Revolution focused on establishing a federal system with a limited
central government, the French Revolution initially sought a more centralized, egalitarian
system, eventually giving way to the rise of Napoleon and his empire.
● The American and French Revolutions had a profound impact on the world, inspiring
future movements for independence, democracy, and social change.

63
Conclusion:
The American and French Revolutions laid the foundations of the modern world by challenging
traditional political and social systems, embracing Enlightenment ideals, and promoting
democratic principles. Their lasting influence is evident in the political, social, and economic
structures that continue to shape our world today, serving as a testament to the transformative
power of revolutionary ideas.

2018
(No Question asked)

2017
Q1. What problems are germane to the decolonization process in the Malay Peninsula? (10
marks, 150 words)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the context of decolonization in the Malay Peninsula and
its significance in shaping the contemporary political, social, and economic landscape.
● Body: Elaborate on the key problems germane to the decolonization process.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.

Introduction:
The decolonization process in the Malay Peninsula, which led to the formation of modern-day
Malaysia and Singapore, was a complex and multifaceted affair. While the region has made
significant progress since achieving independence, several issues germane to the decolonization
process persist.
Body:
Some key problems include:
● Ethnic tensions: The decolonization process and the formation of Malaysia led to the
establishment of a political system that has, at times, favored the majority Malays, creating
ethnic tensions between various groups.
● Economic disparities: One of the legacies of colonial rule was the division of labor and
resources along ethnic lines.
● Political dominance: The United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) has been the
dominant political party in Malaysia since independence. This has led to a lack of political
competition and checks on power, which has, in turn, resulted in allegations of corruption,
cronyism, and authoritarianism.
● Territorial disputes: The decolonization process led to several territorial disputes
between Malaysia and its neighbors, including disputes over the island of Borneo with
Indonesia and the Philippines, and over the Spratly Islands with China and other countries.
● Separation of Singapore: The merger of Singapore with the Federation of Malaya to form
Malaysia in 1963 was short-lived, as ethnic tensions, economic disparities, and political
disagreements led to Singapore's expulsion in 1965.
● Religious tensions: In Malaysia, Islam is the official religion, and there have been
instances of religious tensions, particularly between the majority Muslim Malays and the
minority religious groups.
● Indigenous rights: Their rights to land, resources, and cultural preservation continue to be
a contentious issue in Malaysia.
● Historical revisionism: The decolonization process has been marked by attempts to rewrite
or reinterpret history to suit political narratives. This has led to the suppression of certain
historical events, such as the 1969 racial riots, and the glorification of others, which can
exacerbate existing tensions and divisions.
Conclusion:
The decolonization process in the Malay Peninsula has left a legacy of key issues that continue to
shape the region's development. Addressing these concerns requires concerted efforts from both
the government and civil society to foster greater inclusivity, social cohesion, and equitable

64
development for all citizens. By tackling these challenges, the region can move toward a more
stable and prosperous future.

2016
Q1. The anti-colonial struggles in West Africa were led by the new elite of Western-educated
Africans. Examine. (200 words, 12.5 marks)
Answer:
Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the context of anti-colonial struggles in West Africa and the
emergence of a new elite of Western-educated Africans as key leaders in these movements.
● Body: Discuss the various ways in which the Western-educated African elite contributed to
the anti-colonial struggles.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.
Introduction:
The anti-colonial struggles in West Africa played a pivotal role in the region's eventual
independence from European colonial powers. The emergence of a new elite, comprising Western-
educated Africans, greatly contributed to the success of these struggles.
Body:
● Emergence of the new elite: The new elite of Western-educated Africans emerged during
the late colonial period, as colonial governments introduced Western-style education to
train locals for subordinate roles in the colonial administration.
● Political leadership and formation of nationalist parties: Many Western-educated
Africans became key political leaders and founded nationalist parties to challenge colonial
rule.
● Influence of Western-educated Africans in labor movements: The Western-educated
African elite played a crucial role in organizing labor movements and strikes, which became
important tools to challenge colonial authority.
● Promotion of pan-Africanism and unity: The new elite often advocated for pan-Africanism
and unity among Africans in their fight against colonialism.
● Role in constitutional development and negotiations: Western-educated Africans
participated in constitutional development and negotiations with colonial powers, often
demanding greater autonomy and eventual self-governance.
● Use of media and education to promote nationalism: The Western-educated elite
effectively utilized media outlets like newspapers and radio broadcasts to disseminate
nationalist ideas and build popular support for their cause.
Conclusion:
The Western-educated African elite were instrumental in the success of West Africa's anti-colonial
struggles. Leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah in Ghana and Léopold Sédar Senghor in Senegal
offered crucial political leadership, mobilized labor movements, advocated for pan-Africanism,
engaged in constitutional development, and utilized media and education to promote nationalism.
Their efforts greatly impacted the eventual independence of West African countries and the
formation of post-colonial governments.

2015
Q1. Why did the industrial revolution first occur in England? Discuss the quality of life of
the people there during the industrialization. How does it compare with that in India at
present times?
Answer:
Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the context of the Industrial Revolution in England and its effects
on the quality of life during that period.
● Body: Discuss the reasons for the Industrial Revolution in England, describe the quality of
life during industrialization, and compare it with the quality of life in present-day India,
highlighting both similarities and differences.

65
 ● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.
Introduction:
The Industrial Revolution first occurred in England during the 18th century due to a combination
of factors, including natural resources, a favorable economic climate, and technological
innovations. It significantly transformed the quality of life for the people in England, with both
positive and negative consequences.
Body:
Reasons for the Industrial Revolution in England:
● Natural resources: England had abundant coal and iron ore deposits, which were crucial
for powering steam engines and producing iron for machinery and construction.
● Agricultural Revolution: The Agricultural Revolution led to increased agricultural
productivity, which freed up labor for non-agricultural industries and created a surplus of
food to support a growing urban population.
● Favorable economic climate: England's thriving trade and commerce provided the
necessary capital for investment in new industries and infrastructure. Additionally, a stable
political environment and a strong banking system facilitated economic growth.
● Technological innovations: Numerous technological advancements, such as the spinning
jenny, the power loom, and the steam engine, revolutionized production methods and
enabled the expansion of industries.
Quality of life during industrialization in England:
● Urbanization and overcrowding: The rapid growth of industries led to urbanization, with
people moving from rural areas to cities in search of jobs. This resulted in overcrowded
living conditions, poor sanitation, and increased disease.
● Labor exploitation: Long working hours, low wages, and dangerous working conditions
were common in factories, with women and children often employed in harsh conditions.
● Social stratification: The gap between the rich and the poor widened, with the wealthy
capitalist class benefiting from industrialization, while the working class struggled with
poverty and poor living conditions.
Comparison with present-day India:
● Economic growth: Similar to England during the Industrial Revolution, India has
experienced rapid economic growth in recent decades, with a burgeoning middle class and
increased urbanization.
● Urbanization challenges: Like in industrializing England, India faces challenges related to
urbanization, such as overcrowding, poor sanitation, and inadequate infrastructure.
● Labor exploitation: India has its own issues with labor exploitation, including low wages,
child labor, and informal employment without proper labor rights or social security.
● Social stratification: Inequality remains a significant issue in India, with a considerable
gap between the rich and the poor.
However, there are also differences between the two contexts:
● Regulatory framework: Present-day India has labor laws and regulations in place to
protect workers, unlike during the early years of the Industrial Revolution in England.
● Social support systems: Modern India has social support systems, such as welfare
programs and public healthcare, which did not exist during the Industrial Revolution in
England.
Conclusion:
While there are similarities between the quality of life during the Industrial Revolution in England
and present-day India, such as rapid economic growth, urbanization, and social stratification,
differences in regulatory frameworks and social support systems set the two contexts apart.

Q2. To what extent can Germany be held responsible for causing the two World Wars?
Discuss critically. (150 words, 10 marks)
Answer:
Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the context of Germany's role in the two World Wars and the need
for a nuanced analysis of responsibility.
● Body: Examine Germany's involvement in both World War I and World War II, while also
discussing other factors and countries' roles that contributed to the outbreak of each
conflict.

66
 ● Conclusion: Summarize the extent to which Germany can be held responsible for causing
the two World Wars, emphasizing that multiple factors and shared responsibility were
involved in the conflicts.
Introduction:
The two World Wars were devastating global conflicts that resulted in significant loss of life and
reshaped the political and social landscape of the 20th century. While Germany played a
prominent role in both wars, attributing sole responsibility to the nation is an oversimplification.

Body:
World War I:
● Germany's role: Germany was part of the Central Powers, along with Austria-Hungary, the
Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria. Germany's support for Austria-Hungary following the
assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand contributed to the escalation of the conflict.
● Complex causes: World War I resulted from a complex interplay of factors, including
militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism among European powers. Many nations
bear some responsibility for creating the conditions that led to the war.
● Blank cheque: Germany's decision to give Austria-Hungary a "blank cheque" of
unconditional support played a crucial role in the escalation of the conflict, but this should
not be viewed as the sole cause of the war.
World War II:
● Germany's role: Under Adolf Hitler's leadership, Nazi Germany pursued aggressive
expansionist policies, invading Poland in 1939, which triggered the declaration of war by
Britain and France.
● Treaty of Versailles: The harsh terms of the Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War I,
contributed to the rise of Hitler and the Nazi Party, as they fueled resentment and economic
hardship in Germany.
● Appeasement policy: The policy of appeasement adopted by Britain and France allowed
Hitler to pursue his aggressive expansionist policies without facing significant resistance
until it was too late.
● Other factors: The global economic depression, nationalism, and unresolved issues from
World War I also contributed to the outbreak of World War II.
Conclusion:

While Germany played a significant role in the causes of both World Wars, it is essential to
recognize that these conflicts resulted from a multitude of factors involving several nations. In
World War I, the complex interplay of militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism, coupled
with Germany's support for Austria-Hungary, contributed to the war's outbreak. In World War II,
Germany's aggressive expansionist policies under Hitler were undoubtedly a major cause, but the
Treaty of Versailles, the policy of appeasement, and other factors also played crucial roles. As such,
it is an oversimplification to hold Germany solely responsible for causing the two World Wars.

2014
Q1. What were the major political, economic and social developments in the world which
motivated the anti-colonial struggle in India? (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the anti-colonial struggle in India and its significance in
the context of global political, economic, and social developments.
● Body: Talk about the major political, economic and social developments in the world which
motivated the anti-colonial struggle in India.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.
Introduction:
The anti-colonial struggle in India represents a significant historical movement that emerged in
response to global political, economic, and social developments during the late 19th and early 20th
centuries. As India sought to break free from the shackles of British colonial rule, various forces

67
converged to shape and motivate the movement, underlining the interconnectedness between
India's quest for independence and wider global events.
Body:
Some of the factors that motivated the anti-colonial movement in India include:
● The decline of the British Empire: The 20th century witnessed the decline of British
power as a result of two World Wars, which weakened its economy and military capabilities.
● World War I and World War II: The wars brought about a shift in global power dynamics,
as new nations like the United States and the Soviet Union emerged as world leaders, both
of whom advocated for decolonization and self-determination.
● Economic exploitation: High taxes, forced cultivation of cash crops, and unfair trade
policies impoverished the Indian population and fueled discontent.
● Rise of Indian nationalism: The rise of Indian nationalism, embodied by leaders like
Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Subhas Chandra Bose, played a crucial role in
uniting the diverse Indian population against British rule.
● Influence of other anti-colonial movements: The success of anti-colonial movements in
other parts of the world, such as the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921) and the
Russian Revolution (1917), inspired Indians to seek their own freedom from colonial rule.
● Role of international organizations: The UN Charter, for example, specifically promoted
the right of peoples to self-determination and encouraged the process of decolonization.
● Exposure to liberal ideas: As Indian elites received education in Britain and other Western
countries, they were exposed to liberal ideas of democracy, freedom, and self-determination.
● Social reforms and movements: The 19th and early 20th century saw several social
reform movements in India, which aimed at removing social inequalities, caste
discrimination, and other regressive practices.
Conclusion:
The convergence of these factors not only facilitated the eventual dismantling of British rule but
also highlighted the interconnected nature of India's struggle for freedom and the broader context
of global transformation during that era.

Q2. What were the events that led to the Suez Crisis in 1956? How did it deal a final blow
to Britain’s self-image as a world power? (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Provide an overview of the Suez Crisis and its importance in the context of
Britain's decline as a world power.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the events leading to the Suez Crisis, including the nationalization of the
Suez Canal, the tripartite collusion between Britain, France, and Israel, and the
military intervention.
➢ Examine the international response to the crisis, focusing on the role of the United
States and the United Nations.
➢ Analyze the impact of the crisis on Britain's economy, politics, and international
relations.
● Conclusion: Summarize the significance of the Suez Crisis in dealing a final blow to
Britain's self-image as a world power and its implications for Britain's future role in global
politics.
Introduction:
The Suez Crisis of 1956 was a pivotal event that marked a turning point in Britain's status as a
global power. It not only exposed the limitations of British military and political influence but also
shattered the nation's self-image as a dominant force in international affairs.
Body:
● Events leading to the Suez Crisis:
➢ Nationalization of the Suez Canal: This move was motivated by Egypt's need for
funds to construct the Aswan High Dam after the withdrawal of Western financial
support.
➢ Tripartite collusion: In response to the nationalization, Britain, France, and Israel
formed a secret alliance to regain control of the canal and remove Nasser from
power. Israel invaded Egypt in October 1956, followed by British and French

68
 intervention under the pretext of separating the warring parties and protecting the
canal.
● International response to the crisis:
➢ United States: The U.S. applied financial and diplomatic pressure on Britain to
withdraw its forces.
➢ United Nations: The UN intervened and called for an immediate ceasefire,
eventually deploying the United Nations Emergency Force (UNEF) to maintain peace
and order in the region.
● Impact of the crisis on Britain:
➢ Economic consequences: The crisis led to a run on the pound, forcing the British
government to seek financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF)
and the United States.
➢ Political repercussions: The crisis exposed Britain's diminished global influence
and its reliance on U.S. support. British Prime Minister Anthony Eden faced
immense criticism and eventually resigned in January 1957.
➢ International relations: Britain's reputation was severely damaged, and its
imperialist ambitions were curtailed as the crisis highlighted the nation's inability to
act unilaterally in the face of international opposition.
Conclusion:
The Suez Crisis of 1956 was a watershed moment in the decline of Britain's self-image as a world
power. The events leading to the crisis, the international response, and the subsequent economic,
political, and diplomatic consequences highlighted Britain's diminished global influence and
dependence on the United States. The crisis served as a stark reminder of the changing global
landscape and marked the beginning of the end for Britain's role as a dominant force in
international affairs.

Q3. The New Economic Policy – 1921 of Lenin had influenced the policies adopted by India
soon after independence. Evaluate. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the New Economic Policy (NEP) of 1921 and its key features.
● Body:
➢ Briefly mention India's economic policies after independence.
➢ Discuss the similarities between the NEP and India's economic policies, such as
mixed economy, state control, and focus on industrialization.
➢ Examine the differences between the NEP and India's economic policies, such as
the role of the private sector, commitment to democracy, and the influence of
other economic models.
● Conclusion: Conclude, evaluating the extent to which the NEP influenced India's
economic policies and the factors that contributed to their adoption.

Introduction:
The New Economic Policy (NEP) of 1921 was introduced by Vladimir Lenin in the Soviet Union as a
response to the economic crisis resulting from the Russian Civil War. The policy aimed to revive the
economy through a mix of socialism and capitalism. After India gained independence in 1947, it
adopted a series of economic policies that sought to promote economic growth and self-reliance.
Body:
Similarities between the NEP and India's economic policies:
● Mixed economy: Both the NEP and India's economic policies aimed to create a mixed
economy, combining elements of socialism and capitalism.
● State control: In both cases, the state controlled key industries and infrastructure, such
as railways, energy, and heavy industries.

69
 ● Focus on industrialization: Both the NEP and India's economic policies placed a strong
emphasis on industrialization as a means of achieving economic development and self-
reliance.
Differences between the NEP and India's economic policies:
● Role of the private sector: While the NEP allowed for some private enterprise, it was
limited in scope and tightly controlled. In contrast, India's economic policies provided more
room for private sector growth and encouraged entrepreneurship.
● Commitment to democracy: India's economic policies were framed within the context of a
democratic political system, unlike the Soviet Union's authoritarian regime. This influenced
the nature of policy-making, with greater emphasis on consensus-building and addressing
the needs of diverse constituencies.
● Influence of other economic models: India's economic policies were not solely influenced
by the NEP; they also drew inspiration from other models, such as the British Fabian
socialism and the development experiences of other newly-independent countries.
Conclusion:
The NEP may have provided a framework for a mixed economy that allowed India to pursue its
goals of economic development and self-reliance. However, India's unique political, social, and
economic context played a significant role in shaping its policies, making it difficult to attribute the
influence solely to the NEP.

2013
Q1. “Latecomer” Industrial revolution in Japan involved certain factors that were markedly
different from what west had experienced. (200 words, 10 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the concept of the "latecomer" industrial revolution in
Japan.
● Body:
➢ Mention the key differences between Japan's industrialization and the Western
experience.
➢ Discuss Japan's unique historical and cultural context that contributed to its
industrialization.
➢ Analyze the role of the Meiji Restoration in shaping Japan's industrial revolution.
➢ Examine Japan's approach to industrialization, including the role of the state,
zaibatsu, and emphasis on education.
➢ Explain Japan's strategy of selective borrowing and adaptation of Western
technology and practices.
● Conclusion: Summarize the key factors that set Japan's industrial revolution apart from
the Western experience and underscore the importance of Japan's unique approach to
industrialization.

Introduction:
The "latecomer" industrial revolution in Japan refers to the rapid industrialization that occurred
during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, following the Meiji Restoration. Unlike the Western
experience, Japan's industrial revolution involved a unique set of factors that were deeply rooted in
its historical and cultural context.
Body:
● Unique historical and cultural context:
➢ Japan's geographical isolation and limited natural resources necessitated a different
approach to industrialization, focusing on maximizing available resources and
adapting foreign technology.
➢ Japan's feudal structure and strong central authority, with the emperor at its
apex, facilitated the implementation of top-down policies to drive industrialization.
● Role of the Meiji Restoration:
➢ The Meiji Restoration (1868) marked the end of the feudal shogunate and the
beginning of a period of modernization and reform. This event was a catalyst for

70
 Japan's industrial revolution, as it opened the country to foreign influences and
encouraged the adoption of Western ideas.
● Japan's approach to industrialization:
➢ Role of the state: The Japanese government played a crucial role in promoting
industrialization, investing in infrastructure, subsidizing key industries, and
establishing state-owned enterprises.
➢ Zaibatsu: Powerful Japanese conglomerates, known as zaibatsu, were instrumental
in driving industrialization, as they controlled vast resources and enjoyed strong
government support.
➢ Emphasis on education: Japan prioritized the development of human capital
through investment in education and the promotion of a skilled workforce. This
focus on education was essential for adapting and improving upon Western
technologies.
● Selective borrowing and adaptation:
➢ Japan strategically adopted and adapted Western technology and practices that
suited its unique circumstances. This approach allowed Japan to learn from the
West while maintaining its cultural identity and maximizing the efficiency of its
industrialization process.
Conclusion:
These factors enabled Japan to successfully industrialize within a relatively short period and laid
the foundation for its emergence as a global economic power in the 20th century.

Q2. Africa was chopped into states artificially created by accident of European competition.
Analyse. (200 words, 10 marks)
Answer:
Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the Scramble for Africa and its connection to European
competition and colonization.
● Body:
➢ Discuss the Berlin Conference and its role in the division of Africa.
➢ Explain the motives behind European colonization (economic interests, political
competition, cultural and religious expansion).
➢ Analyze the artificial borders created by European powers, addressing their
disregard for existing ethnic, cultural, and political divisions among African
communities.
➢ Describe the lasting impacts of these artificial borders on African nations, such as
tensions, conflicts, and difficulties in nation-building and political stability.
● Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.
Introduction:
The statement that "Africa was chopped into states artificially created by accident of European
competition" refers to the process of colonization and the subsequent division of the African
continent by European powers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This process, often
referred to as the "Scramble for Africa," saw the rapid division of the continent's territory among
European nations.
Body:
● Historical context:
➢ The Scramble for Africa occurred between 1884 and 1914 due to intense competition
among European powers seeking territory and resources.
➢ Driven by the Industrial Revolution's increased demand for raw materials and new
markets, these powers aimed to expand their influence and territories in Africa.
● The Berlin Conference (1884-1885):
➢ The Berlin Conference formalized the division of Africa among European powers to
prevent conflicts over colonization.
➢ However, the boundaries drawn showed little regard for existing ethnic, cultural,
and political divisions among African people, often due to limited knowledge and
inaccurate maps.
● Motives behind colonization:
➢ European powers colonized Africa due to economic interests, political competition,
and the spread of cultural and religious beliefs.

71
 ➢ This allowed them to exploit Africa's resources and strengthen their global influence
by competing with rivals.
● Artificial borders and lasting impacts:
➢ Dividing Africa into artificial states had lasting consequences, as European-drawn
borders often ignored existing ethnic, cultural, and political divisions.
➢ This led to tensions and conflicts among diverse groups, and hindered the
development of cohesive national identities, fostering political instability.
Conclusion:
The Scramble for Africa resulted in the creation of artificial borders that disregarded existing
ethnic, cultural, and political divisions, leading to ongoing challenges related to nation-building,
political stability, and development in Africa.

Q3. American Revolution was an economic revolt against mercantilism. Substantiate. (200
words, 10 marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Briefly introduce the American Revolution and its multifaceted nature.
● Body:
➢ Mention the economic aspect, focusing on the revolt against mercantilism.
➢ Discuss the concept of mercantilism and how British colonial policies implemented
this system.
➢ Explain the issue of taxation without representation and its connection to
mercantilist policies.
➢ Describe the economic self-interest of American colonists and their desire for free
trade.
➢ Address the economic impact of British policies on the American colonies.
● Conclusion: Acknowledge that while the revolution cannot be solely characterized as an
economic revolt, the desire for economic self-determination was a crucial factor in the
struggle for independence.
Introduction:
The American Revolution (1775-1783) was a multifaceted struggle for independence by the thirteen
American colonies against Great Britain. While it is true that economic factors, such as opposition
to mercantilism, played a significant role in the revolution, it is important to consider other
contributing factors, such as political and ideological motivations.
Body:
● Mercantilism and British colonial policies:
➢ Mercantilism was a dominant economic theory that linked a nation's wealth and
power to gold and silver accumulation.
➢ Colonies served to benefit the mother country, providing raw materials and markets
for goods.
➢ British policies like the Navigation Acts enforced mercantilism, restricting American
colonies' trade and making them reliant on Britain for imports and exports.
● Taxation without representation:
➢ A key grievance leading to the American Revolution was taxation without
representation.
➢ Acts such as the Stamp Act, Townshend Acts, and Tea Act exemplify British efforts
to raise revenue from colonies, reflecting mercantilist policies that aimed to exploit
the colonies for the mother country's benefit.
● Economic self-interest and the desire for free trade:
➢ Many colonists, especially merchants and traders, were frustrated with British
mercantilist restrictions.
➢ They sought economic self-determination and free trade, believing it would lead to
prosperity. This desire fueled the revolutionary sentiment among the colonists.
● Economic impact of British policies:
➢ British mercantilist policies and taxation measures hindered the colonies' economic
growth and caused financial hardships for colonists, contributing to discontent with
British rule and support for the independence movement.

72
Conclusion:
While the American Revolution encompassed various factors, the quest for economic self-
determination significantly contributed to the struggle for independence, demonstrating the
importance of addressing economic grievances in the pursuit of freedom and autonomy.



73
INDIAN SOCIETY

74
 2022

Q1. Explore and evaluate the impact of „Work from Home‟ on family relationships. (150
words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Write about the concept of work from home in brief.
● Body:
➢ Write down both positive and negative aspects of Work from Home.
➢ Also examine the family relations like husband-wife relations, parent-children
relation, any disproportionate impact on women and children, relations with
elderly, etc.
● Conclusion: Conclude by stating that work from home is a reality that has both positive
and negative effects on family relations. So, governments and organizations must
consciously try to reduce the negative impact while boosting the adoption of work from
home.

Introduction:
Work from Home, also known as Remote work, is a flexible working arrangement that allows an
employee to work from a remote location like home instead of in an office environment. It has
become a common feature for many offices since the COVID-19 pandemic. Working from home
influences both work and life, especially family relationships.
Body:
Impact of WFH on family relations can be seen in both positive and negative aspects.
Positive Impacts:
● Stronger Family Bonds: While working from home, a person spends more time with family
which helps in strengthening family bonds. The person also gets a chance to meet various
needs of the family without hampering work by using the flexibility to work.
● Proper Attention to Children: Work from home gives adequate time to parents for them to
spend with their children, which improves cooperation and understanding between the
parents and the children.
● Can better Take Care of Old People: While working from home the younger generation can
better take care of their old parents and provide them with the requisite attention.
● Reduced expenditure on travel and rent: The additional disposable income due to work
from home is useful for families to improve their standard of living.
● More opportunities for the women: There were challenges like transportation and night
work, those can be resolved by it. Women can become financially independent.
Negative Impacts:
● Boundaries between workspace and home get blurred: Many families in smaller homes
have found conflicts and resentment to rise in the confined spaces. The blurred boundaries
between work and family life causes the negligence of routine domestic works and family
members may also feel that the person is always “on call” (available to work), which creates
a situation of stress and tension.
● Increased burden on Women: Women are expected to bear the entire burden of the family.
This burden has increased dramatically once the entire family started being together for 24
hours for the entire week.
● Domestic Violence and Child Abuse: The physical and emotional trauma faced by women
due to husbands being confined in the house was widely captured. According to National
Commission for Women (NCW) data, it registered an increase of at least 2.5 times in
domestic violence complaints during the nationwide lockdown.
● Strained Marital Relations: Extended periods of confinement within the house raises the
likelihood of disputes between husband and wife. This accelerates the process of
separation.
● Impact on mental health: The absence of social support and professional development
opportunities usually present in a traditional office setting can be a source of frustration for
some people. It can also lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness which further hampers
family relations.

75
Conclusion:
As with any socio-economic phenomenon, the impact of WFH on family relationships is mixed.
While it has allowed families to have more time together by offering flexibility in work, it has also
brought strain and tension in family relations by disturbing the work-life balance. The government
and organizations should understand the implications of work from home and ensure that they
design policies with society‟s interest at the core by pruning the negative effects and boosting the
positive ones.

Q2. How is the growth of Tier 2 cities related to the rise of a new middle class with an
emphasis on the culture of consumption? (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define Tier-2 cities with some examples.
● Body:
 Link the tier-2 cities and the culture of consumption by linking it with factors that
aid consumption and demand among the middle class.
 Discuss how it has led to the rise of a new middle class.
● Conclusion: Conclude using broad points which focus on the areas where the middle class
spends and how it boosts the growth of Tier-2 cities.

Introduction:
As per the government, Tier 2 cities are the upcoming cities having a population size ranging
between 50,000 and 1,00,000. They include the cities of Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Coimbatore,
Jaipur, Pune, Varanasi etc.
These are cities that are experiencing growth at rates much faster than Tier-1 cities and the rise of
a new middle class.
Body:
Relationship between New Middle Class and Tier 2 Cities:
● Rise of white-collar jobs: The service sector accounts for more than 64% of jobs in tier 2
and tier 3 cities as a result of globalization and LPG reforms in India. It led to an increase in
employment opportunities along with higher salaries creating a new middle class with more
disposable income.
● Increased entrepreneurial activity: Majority of the Tier-2 Cities like Jaipur, Surat, Indore,
Calicut, etc have attracted huge investments and are start-up hubs. This leads to more
employment opportunities and also more innovation in the market which helps spur
demand.
● Social media and exposure to western consumerism: Proliferation of Internet and
increased exposure to social media has led to rising aspirations. This has boosted consumer
demand across sectors. The availability and affordability of e-commerce has made it
easier for the middle class to fulfill these aspirations.
● Better than Tier-1 cities: The moderate cost of living in Tier 2 cities encourages greater
consumption because of the affordability of a better lifestyle. The Tier-2 cities also have
greater ease of living which is reflected in the Ease of Living Index.
○ Five of the top 10 cities in the Ease of Living (EOL) index are Tier-2 cities,
namely Ahmedabad, Surat, Coimbatore, Vadodara, and Indore and Tier-2 cities
typically have 10% - 35% lower cost of living as compared to the nearest Tier-1
location
● Infrastructure development: Enhanced connectivity, attractive real estate prices, better
amenities, less crowded, etc. and a focus on improving the quality of infrastructure attracts
the middle class and investors. This leads to further boom in the tier-2 economy.
● New market: The capacity to consume along with the availability of all major consumer
brands has led to Tier-2 cities to be established as the new market. The tourism footfall has
also increased in these cities leading to increased focus on providing quality amenities and
hospitality. These further boosts middle class aspirations and thereby the growth of Tier-2
cities.
● Government Initiatives like Make in India, Stand-up India, Start-up India, MUDRA
Yojana, JAM Trinity, UDAN, etc. in tier 2 cities have brought more people into the fold of the
middle class by increasing disposable income and providing them with avenues to spend.

76
Conclusion:
Increased wages, the digital revolution, and the westernization of habits along with improvement in
infrastructure, business ecosystem, and enhanced connectivity have together contributed to the
promotion of consumption culture in the middle class. The virtuous cycle of economy observed in
Tier-2 cities is fuelled by the middle class and its aspiration to consume better.

Q3. Given the diversities among the tribal communities in India, in which specific contexts
should they be considered as a single category? (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define tribes along with some facts about tribes in India. Also, mention
about the diversities among tribes.
● Body: Mention the different contexts in which tribes can be seen as a single category.
● Conclusion: Mention that the categorization of tribes is necessary, but it should not be
done at the cost of the diversities among tribes.

Introduction:
According to Census 2011, the tribal population constitutes around 8.6% of the total population.
Though numerically small, they represent the enormous diversity of India. They are an example of
the ethnographic wealth and culture of Indian heritage.
Tribal communities in India are a diverse group, with significant differences in terms of language,
culture, and traditions. They range from patriarchal to matriarchal, monogamous to polygamous,
nature worshippers to polytheists, etc.
Examples: Todas are polyandrous, Khasis are matriarchal tribes, Santhals have mixed with
mainstream society while Jarawas are completely isolated.
Body:
But they can be considered to be a single entity on some counts:
● Social Aspects:
○ Endogamy: Tribal people do not marry outside their group. This maintains their
distinct identity.
○ Distinct identity: Most of them have a common language, community name,
territory, etc., which marks them off from the others.
○ Spatial Isolation: They live happily away from the mainstream population.
● Economic Aspects:
○ Self-sufficient: The tribes are mostly self-reliant and have a system for ensuring the
satisfaction of their needs outside the impact of the market forces.
○ Dependent on Forests: The tribal way of life is aligned with the forests. The tribes
are dependent on forests for their life and livelihood.
○ Deprivation: Tribal communities in India are generally disadvantaged compared to
the non-tribal population in terms of access to education, healthcare, and other
basic services.
● Political Aspects:
○ Distinct political organization: Tribes have a distinct organized political authority,
rather than the mainstream laws and executive authorities, that looks for their
interests and welfare.
○ Egalitarian values: There is no caste or class distinction among most tribals. The
stratification in society is mostly based on age or gender.
● Culture:
○ Worship of a Common Ancestor: The members of a tribe usually worship a
common ancestor and also “Nature” worship is common in them.
○ Distinct rituals, festivals, cuisine, etc.
● Legal:
○ Constitutional and legal provisions categorize tribes into a single category of
„Scheduled Tribes‟ (ST) notwithstanding the diversity among them.

Conclusion:
Each tribe has its own distinctive characteristics that sets it apart from the other tribes. While it is
important to recognize the diversity among tribal communities in India, for addressing issues

77
related to their overall socio-economic and political status and their relationship with the state and
other non-tribal groups, they may need to be seen as a single entity with some common features.

Q4. Analyze the salience of „sect‟ in Indian society vis-a-vis caste, region and religion. (250
words, 15 Marks)
Answer:
Approach:
● Introduction: Define sect and give an example.
● Body:
 Mention the salience of „sect‟ vis-à-vis caste.
 Mention the salience of „sect‟ vis-à-vis the region.
 Mention the salience of „sect‟ vis-à-vis religion.
 Conclusion: State that sects are a fact that would arise given the large diversity of
aspirations and needs. But too much of sectarianism would lead to more divisions within
society, so it must be checked appropriately.

Introduction:
Sects are a smaller group of faith that follows a traditional religion but with exception to certain
tenets of the traditional religion. It can also refer to religious groups that have separated
themselves from an established religion and now follow their own rules. E.g., Brahmo Samaj,
ISKCON, etc are sects within Hinduism.
Sects often arise in moments of uncertainty and they attract the marginalized sections of the
society.
Body:
Salience of „sect‟ vis-a-vis Caste:
Caste is a system of social stratification in India that influences various aspects of the life of an
individual.
● Sect as unifying factor: Several sects form just so that the caste-based discrimination is
not faced by the people. The marginalized sections of society are mostly lower castes and
are thus more attracted towards sects.
○ E.g., Buddhism and Jainism started off against the ill-effects of the caste system in
India.
● Sect as divisive factor: Even within same castes, there may be several sects that may even
be opposing in their basic features.
○ Brahmins as a caste are sub-divided into sects of Brahmins of Northern India &
Southern India.
Salience of „sect‟ vis-a-vis Region:
● Geographically selected culture: Sect reflects both the geography & culture of the region
in which it develops. It is a way of accommodating local needs and aspirations within the
mainstream religion.
○ Example: The Shaikh are a Muslim community found in the north Indian states.
They have further sub-sects like siddiqui, farooqi, usmani, abbasi.
● Political identity: Owing to rising socio-economic status, various sub-castes in India are
asserting their dominance in regional political and social sectors.
○ Example: Lingayats in Karnataka control the regional politics heavily.
Salience of „sect‟ vis-a-vis Religion:
● Adherence to norms: Both require their followers to adhere to certain ways of living.
○ Shias and Sunnis are sects within Islam and they have different mosques, festivals
and way of living too.
● Religion can be accommodative with various sects but, sect is always different & specific
to a single value & culture.
○ ISKCON is a sect that focuses on only worshiping Lord Krishna.
● Sect may become a new religion: Over a period of time, sects may become
institutionalized as separate religions.
○ For instance, Buddhism and Jainism started off as sects within Hinduism but
gradually became established as separate religions.

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 Conclusion:
Too much sectarianism may lead to increased fragmentation within society that may be harmful for
the growth of society and national integration. Thus, it must be moderated. India is a land of
diversity. Sects are one way through which diversity is enriched by keeping the local needs and
aspirations in mind within the larger umbrella of one religion.

Q5. Are tolerance, assimilation and pluralism the key elements in the making of an Indian
form of secularism? Justify your answer. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define Indian form of secularism.
● Body: List down a few points which reflect tolerance, assimilation and plurality in the way
secularism is practiced in India.
● Conclusion: Mention how all the three values are complementary and essential for India to
be able to follow its unique mode of secularism.

Introduction:
Indian Secularism is characterized by the recognition of all religions as equal, i.e “Sarva Dharma
Sambhava”. It does not envisage a strict separation of religion and state as seen in the Western
form of secularism. Secularism is an essential feature of the Indian Constitution. The term
„Secular‟ was interpreted in the S.R. Bommai case to mean religious tolerance and equal treatment
of all religious groups.
Indian society, despite being multi-religious, ethnic, linguistic, culture, is secular because of the
adoption of values such as tolerance, assimilation & pluralism by the Indian society.
Body:
Tolerance as a key element of Indian Secularism:
Tolerance allows divergent ideas, customs, beliefs, and lifestyles to flourish in society. In the
context of Indian secularism, tolerance is essential for creating a society that is inclusive and
respectful of diversity.
● Principle of „Sarva Dharma Sambhav‟: India since its ancient times laid the foundation for
tolerance towards other religions and culture.
● 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' is a phrase in Maha Upanishad, a Hindu religious text which
essentially means "the world is family".
● India has been the living example of tolerance: Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism are
religions that arose in India. India is home to most of the major religions globally. India has
always stood on the principle of „Dharma nirapekshata‟.
○ Majority of the Kings and emperors of ancient India always adhered to the principle
of tolerance. This ensured that the social and cultural diversity was not disturbed
and the society remained secular.
● Constitutional provisions: The state doesn't have a recognized religion. Fundamental
rights guaranteed by the state's constitution (Articles 25 to 28), guaranteeing that everyone
has the right to practice any religion, represent the state's tolerance of all religions.
Pluralism as a key element of Indian Secularism:
While tolerance is essential, it still showcases the lack of acceptance. With pluralism, the
differences start to be seen as complementary. By embracing pluralism, India is able to
celebrate and appreciate its diversity, while also promoting a sense of unity and shared values.
● Cultural features vary significantly among different groups but they are accepted by
each other.
○ For instance, festivals like Diwali, Christmas and Eid are celebrated with equal
fervor throughout India.
● Religions like Christianity and Islam were introduced by invaders, yet they coexisted with
the rest of the society without losing their distinctive identities.
● When multiple religious communities coexist, over time they begin to incorporate
elements of one another's art, architecture, culture, and religion.
○ For instance, Mughal art is the result of the fusion of Persian Islamic architecture
and native Indian design. The Mughal art in turn strongly influenced the Rajput
paintings of Jaipur and Amber.

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Assimilation as a key element of Indian Secularism:
Assimilation is the process whereby individuals or groups of differing ethnic heritage are absorbed
into the dominant culture of a society. Assimilation involves the incorporation of diverse groups
and cultures into a larger society.
● Unity in diversity: In India, assimilation is seen through the view that diversity is a
strength, and that by embracing different cultures and traditions, the country can become
more united and cohesive.
● „Indian culture‟: Differences in cultures blend together so seamlessly that despite
variations, there are several commonalities that lead to a general idea of an „Indian culture‟.
○ For instance, an Indian Muslim or Christian is closer to Indian Hindu than to
Christians of Europe or Muslims of West Asia.
○ The Sufi saints are revered by all Indians irrespective of their faith.
Conclusion:
The multiplicity in culture, faith and language is what makes India special. Pluralism and tolerance
are core philosophies of Indian society. Plurality of our society has come about through
assimilation of ideas over centuries. All of these values are complementary to each other and are
essential for India to be able to follow its unique model of secularism.

Q6. Elucidate the relationship between globalization and new technology in a world of scarce
resources, with special reference to India. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:
Approach:
● Introduction: Define globalization.
● Body: Mention the positive and negative aspects of relation between scarce resources and
globalization.
● Conclusion: Conclude about how technology is going to be the mainstay of the future but
the negative aspects must be controlled for a better future for all.

Introduction:
Globalization means growing interdependence and integration of economies, societies and
cultures from across the world. It is brought about by cross border trade of goods, services and
technology and flow of investment and people.
In the human world 'resource' is anything that can be used to fulfill our needs and wants. Often
some resources are abundant while others scarce in every nation.
Body:
The relations between globalization and new technology in the world of scarce resources have
varied facets. The positive aspects can be seen as follows:
● Globalization has made it possible to access scarce resources: Globalization has led to
easier access to new technologies to all the regions of the world.
o Example: Lithium is present only at certain places, but it is extracted and sent to
far away places and is being used in electronic gadgets globally. India is one of
the biggest users of electronic items.
● Globalization has made it possible for nations to move beyond one‟s resource
restrictions: The technologies of the developed countries are being transferred & used in
the developing & least developed countries.
o Example: Technology is the reason why water-scarce countries in West Asia are
able to satisfy their needs. Globalization allows for this technology to be shared
with other countries facing water-scarcity like India.
● Easier to extract maximum potential of scarce resources and reduce the demand for
certain resources: Globalization can help to increase the efficiency of resource use by
allowing countries to specialize in the production of certain resources and trade them with
other countries. This can help to reduce the overall demand for resources.
o Example: New technologies such as renewable energy sources can help to reduce
the reliance on non-renewable resources, such as fossil fuels.
● More power to consumers: Globalization has allowed for greater competitive markets
which ultimately benefits the customer with respect to improved quality of goods and
services and reduction in cost.
o Example: Internet has become the mainstay of today‟s society as it has become
cheap and India is one of the biggest internet users.

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 ● Uniform standards: Development of technology along with globalization has made it
possible to develop uniform standards that allow for greater interoperability and wider
reach of products.
o Example: Mobile phone technology has uniform standards that allows for
phones manufactured anywhere to be used anywhere globally. Similarly, solar
panels, pharmaceutical products, etc are produced in India for the world
because of uniform standards.
There are some negative aspects as well:
● Resource curse: Globalization has made scarce resources captive to the market forces. The
poorer third world nations sitting on huge resource wealth are being exploited for feeding
the extravagant life of the developed world.
o Example: African nations feed resources to the Western world. Within India,
areas in poorer States feed the resources needed to run industries based in
cities.
● Inequality widens: Most of the benefits of globalization are reaped by the rich who are the
owners of technology. The rich become richer while the poor are unable to access the new
technology or its benefits. This may also lead to conflicts. The Oxfam report highlights the
rising inequalities in the countries and within the countries.
● Environmental degradation: Increased demand for certain resources, such as water and
land, can lead to resource depletion and environmental degradation. Growing resource
scarcity can trigger zero-sum competition between countries. Various climate change
reports highlight the destruction.
● Techno-nationalism: The rise of new technologies in the globalized world is leading to
techno nationalism wherein advanced countries dominate third world countries through AI,
IoT etc.
Conclusion:
Technology will continue to play an integral role in supporting globalization. The scarcity
challenges need to be understood as an integrated whole, not as separate issues. Thus, India needs
to swiftly embrace emerging technologies and should be more ambitious in developing cutting edge
technology to escape techno-colonialism of advanced countries and to address its socio-economic
problems. India needs to adopt policies and practices that will maximize the benefits from and
reduce the negative impacts of globalization and adoption of new technologies.

2021
Q1. Examine the uniqueness of tribal knowledge systems when compared with mainstream
knowledge and cultural systems. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the meaning of the idea of tribal knowledge.
● Body: List down the points that show the uniqueness of tribal knowledge systems and
always mention how it is different from the mainstream knowledge system.
● Conclusion: Conclude with the idea of combining traditional and mainstream education
along with certain initiatives from India like TKDL.

Introduction:
Tribal knowledge systems represent inter-generational wisdom of the indigenous people
passed on to the present times through centuries of experience and learnings.
Body:
Tribal knowledge systems are unique due to following reasons:
● Nature-centered: Tribal knowledge is focused around nature as they have co-existed with
the forests and its flora and fauna. It often has a strong emphasis on the connection
between humans and nature, recognizing the interdependence of all living things.
○ For example, the Aka tribe of Arunachal Pradesh use traditional ways of hunting,
fishing and extraction of materials to ensure sustainability whereas the contractors
from mainstream communities engage in overexploitation of forest resources.

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 ●Way of acquiring knowledge: Tribal knowledge is deeply rooted in the experiences and
practices of the community while mainstream knowledge systems are based on rigorous
refining and questioning of ideas through discussions and scientific verification.‟
○ For example, the awareness among tribals of Andaman & Nicobar about a wall of
sea helped them against Tsunami in 2004.
● Way of preserving knowledge: Tribal knowledge systems are stored in oral methods like
songs and stories, while mainstream knowledge is preserved in books and recordings.
● Interdisciplinary: Tribal knowledge is highly holistic and interdisciplinary, often
encompassing a wide range of areas including agriculture, medicine, spirituality, and
governance. Mainstream knowledge focuses more on specialization.
● Role of tradition: Tribal knowledge systems promote integrated learning for the
community. In mainstream society, knowledge and traditions have bifurcated, with
traditions becoming a subject of study instead of mode of studying.
● Ways of promoting knowledge: Tribal knowledge systems are non-exclusionary and
marked by equity. Mainstreams knowledge systems are mired in barriers like cost of
education, patent protections, social exclusion etc.
Conclusion:
Tribal and mainstream societies are not mutually exclusive systems. Constant interaction and
mutual dependence have enriched both. The indigenous knowledge must not be treated as
vestige, rather it should be encouraged because the vast expanse of this traditional knowledge
is way beyond the scope of mainstream knowledge. Their knowledge can be a game-changer for
the way for India to achieve its sustainable development goals. Recent initiatives like the
Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) initiative, Indian Knowledge System (IKS) cell
under Ministry of Education, etc. are some steps towards recording and using this vast
repository of knowledge.

Q2. Examine the role of 'Gig Economy' in the process of empowerment of women in India.
(150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Give a basic definition of the gig economy which encompasses the basic
traits associated with gig economy.
● Body: As the question asks to examine, list down both the pros and cons of the gig
economy in the process of women empowerment.
● Conclusion: Conclude with the idea that the Gig economy does offer several opportunities
for women but the lack of security and scope of exploitation must be reduced by taking
appropriate measures.

Introduction:
The gig economy refers to the growing trend of short-term, flexible, and independent work
arrangements. It has the potential to play a significant role in the empowerment of women in India.
Body:
Gig economy can help in the process of empowerment of women in India in following ways:
● Balance work and family: Gig employment allows part-time work and flexible working
hours which allows women to balance their traditional family roles (homemakers and
caregiver) with employment.
○ For example, the rise of online platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart has created
opportunities for women in rural areas to earn money by selling their products
online.
● Flexibility to enter and exit: Many women in India face barriers to employment due to
cultural and societal norms. The gig economy provides women with on-demand work
allowing her to join and drop-out of work force as per her own will.
● New employment opportunities: With gig employment complemented by work-from-home
(WFH) and technology, new employment opportunities for women in tier 2 and 3 cities
have emerged where they do not need to travel much.
○ A boost in use of digital technology and increased acceptance of virtual working for
sales and distribution jobs opens up opportunities for women to enter fields where
interactions are managed through apps and phone calls.

82
 ● It has addressed the issue of safety during travel and night shifts.
● Financial independence: Gig employment helps women earn extra income, boosts her
confidence and gives decision making power, all of which are important components of
women empowerment.
● More rewarding jobs: The gig economy has helped to provide women with access to higher
paying, higher skilled work, such as consulting, design, and marketing, which can be more
lucrative than traditional employment opportunities with gender wage gap.
However, gig economy comes with its own set of constraints such as:
● Lack of security: Gig economy works purely on market principle of demand and supply.
There is a lack of certainty regarding availability of work and stability of career. The easily
replaceable low skill gig laborers are exploited by employers and there is very little
regulation.
● Lack of any benefits: Flexi-workers usually are not entitled to minimum wages,
insurances, PF, retirement plans, paid leave, maternity benefits, etc.
● Lack of wage parity: Permanent employees have a grade-pay plus benefits like travel
allowance, etc. Gig workers are paid strictly as per the amount of work.
● Upskilling at own cost: A worker needs to be skilled enough to be gainfully employed in
the gig economy. While companies routinely invest in training employees, a gig-economy
woman worker will have to upgrade her skills on her own at her own cost.
● Restricted growth: Low skill gig workers cannot move-up the organizational hierarchy and
are not considered for promotions.
● Demand-Supply Mismatch: In the middle and higher end spectrum of gig jobs, there are
already many more potential online independent workers than jobs, and this demand-
supply mismatch will only get worse over time, depressing wages especially for women.
Conclusion:
In the short term, the gig economy can be a step towards increasing female labor force
participation and women empowerment. But, in long run, predictable and formal employment with
opportunities of upskilling is required. Some labor laws and regulations along with documentation
of best practices across the globe on how different industries are using new technologies and at the
same time creating job opportunities for women would help create supportive policies.

Q3. What are the main socio-economic implications arising out of the development of IT
industries in major cities of India? (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Mention about the IT industry and the major locations in India which are
the hubs for the IT industry.
● Body: Mention both the positive and negative socio-economic implications of the IT
industries being located in the major cities of India.
● Conclusion: Mention that IT industries are necessary for India‟s growth story but it must
not be concentrated in major cities. They must be spread across Tier-2 and 3 cities as well
for growth to be inclusive.

Introduction:
Information Technology is the use of electronic equipment, especially computers, for collecting,
storing and sending out information. India is one of the key players in the field of IT. The IT
industries in India are concentrated in the major metropolitan cities of India such as
Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Noida, Pune, etc.
Body:
This isolated concentration of the IT industries in these cities have several socio-economic
implications.
Some positive implications are:
● Economic boost: Development of IT industries in major cities has led to development of
massive employment opportunities. This rise in employment led to the rise of new
middle, higher income and improved standard of living. Greater focus on
consumption has led to the development of ancillary businesses as well.
○ The IT industry contributes to about 8% of GDP.

83
 ●Gender parity: The labor force participation of women in quality jobs is comparatively
more in these cities due to development of IT industries. It has led to their financial
independence and empowerment.
● Social infrastructure: Development of IT industries have given boost to the social
infrastructure as the people working in IT industries aspire for and are willing to pay
for good quality services. This could be seen in high availability of schools, hospitals,
transport facilities, etc. in these cities.
● Migration: As these cities have become the center of knowledge economy, there is a
marked preference among the educated youth to migrate into these cities for better career
opportunities.
● Social mobility: The growth of the IT industry has provided opportunities for social
mobility, particularly for those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. Many IT
professionals have been able to move up the socio-economic ladder as a result of their
employment in the industry.
● Cultural changes: The concentration of IT industries in major cities has also led to a
marked shift towards accepting western language, rise in nuclear families, rise of
working hostels and Paying Guest services, shift in food choices and modes of
recreation. There is also a rise in cosmopolitan culture in these cities.
There are some negative implications as well. They can be seen as follows:
● Imbalanced development and economic disparity: Concentration of IT industry in a
handful of major cities has led them to develop faster than the semi urban Tier 2 and 3
cities. Moreover, there is also a huge wage gap between IT workers and other workers.
○ For example, tier 2 and 3 cities like Lucknow, Jaipur, Chandigarh, Bhubaneshwar,
Indore were developing slower than their surrounding IT based cities like Delhi,
Gurugram, Mumbai, etc.
● Brain drain: The concentration of the IT industry in major cities has led to a brain drain in
other parts of the country, as people flock to the cities in search of employment
opportunities.
● Increased cost of living: Rising real estate prices and increased competition for skilled
workers make it difficult for people from lower end jobs in the IT industry to continue to live
in these cities.
● Stressful way of living: The inevitability of a job has led to people working beyond their
capacity, creating a work-life imbalance. This leads to stress which impacts physical and
mental health and also affects family relations.
● Worsening Rural-Urban Divide: As infrastructure development is focused in these cities,
there is a lack of infrastructure in rural areas which impacts their socio-economic
development.
● Security challenges: The late-night work culture, rise in affluence have parallelly
enhanced the security challenges for the citizens and administration alike with incidents
of thefts, eve-teasing etc. on the rise.
Conclusion:
The development of IT industries has come as a boon for the country. India‟s technology services
industry can achieve USD 300-350 billion in annual revenue by 2025 if it can exploit the fast-
emerging business potential in cloud networking, artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity and other
emerging technologies. But for growth to be truly inclusive, the investment in this sector should be
evenly distributed and not centered to a few locations.

Q4. Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to
achieve them in India in detail. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define population education.
● Body: List down the main objectives of population education. List down the measures
taken up for population education.
● Conclusion: Mention how population can be a boon if population education is inculcated
in them.

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Introduction:
Population education is a form of education that aims to increase awareness and understanding
of population-related issues, such as population growth, family planning, reproductive health, and
the impact of population on the environment and development.
Body:
The main objectives of Population Education are:
● Promote responsible and informed decision-making about reproductive health: This
includes educating people about contraception, preventing unintended pregnancies, and
reducing the spread of sexually transmitted infections.
● Encourage responsible and sustainable population growth: This includes educating
people about the impact of population growth on the environment and development, and
encouraging them to consider the long-term implications of their reproductive decisions.
Controlling population can facilitate the development of a higher quality of life in the
nation.
● Foster responsible and sustainable consumption patterns: This includes educating
people about the impact of their consumption patterns on the environment and
encouraging them to adopt sustainable lifestyles.
Measures to achieve these objectives:
India was the first country to explicitly announce its Population policy in 1952. The aim of the
programme was to reduce birth rates “to stabilize the population at a level consistent with the
requirements of the national economy”.
● The government launched the National Family planning program with the aim of
controlling population growth in a socially desirable direction by reducing Total fertility
rate to 2.1 (replacement rate).
● Providing access to accurate and comprehensive information and services: This
includes ensuring that people have access to accurate and comprehensive information
about reproductive health and family planning, as well as access to services such as
contraception and reproductive health care.
● The government is also utilizing NGOs and ASHA workers to provide delivery of
contraceptives and educate people in rural and urban areas about family planning.
● Incorporating population education into the school curriculum through the
incorporation of population-related topics into existing subjects, such as biology and social
studies.
● Implementing targeted outreach and awareness campaigns: These campaigns are
designed to reach specific populations, such as adolescents or rural communities, and
includes the use of media, such as television and radio, as well as community-based events
and activities.
● Building capacity and training for educators and other stakeholders: This includes
training educators and other stakeholders, such as community leaders and health care
providers, on population-related issues and how to effectively communicate these issues to
others.
Conclusion:
India is projected to become the most populous nation soon. This huge population can become a
bane if we cannot provide them with meaningful opportunities. So, it is imperative for the policy
makers to adopt population education initiatives to devise policies and educate people about
them to ensure that this huge population remains as an asset. The steps taken by the
government has ensured that India‟s TFR comes close to 2.1, but for maintaining this gain, the
intervention of educational efforts is absolutely necessary.

Q5. What is Crypto currency? How does it affect global society? Has it been affecting
Indian society also? (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:
Approach:
● Introduction: Define cryptocurrency and mention some of its key features.
● Body: Mention the impact of cryptocurrency on global society. Mention the impact on
Indian society specifically.
● Conclusion: Mention that every technology has its pros and cons, but the positive side
must be developed further so that the cons become less and less relevant.

85
Introduction:
A cryptocurrency is a virtual currency secured by cryptography. The cryptocurrency works on
blockchain technology and is free from control of any central authority. It is designed to work
as a medium of exchange wherein individual coin ownership records are stored in a computerized
database.
Cryptocurrency is a new emerging technology which is revolutionizing the way people make
monetary transactions.
Body:
Crypto has affected global society in multiple ways, like:
● Greater integration: Currently, the world is divided in terms of different currencies. Crypto
bypasses this division and is increasingly becoming a sought-after way of transacting
globally thereby integrating the global society.
● Crypto as an investment: Cryptocurrency has emerged as a new asset class and is seen as
an alternative to gold. However, fluctuation in the value of cryptocurrency has made both
kings and beggars.
● Cheaper and safer transactions: For consumers, transferring money becomes a lot
cheaper and in certain instances, safer as well, as transactions cannot be replicated.
○ Due to the ease and speed of transaction it allows, crypto has empowered relief
efforts in Ukraine. Ukraine accepts millions of dollars in donations via digital
currencies and many Ukrainians have been drawn to cryptocurrency as a place to
invest their money as there is no strong stock market alternative.
● Government control over economy reduces, reducing the hold on the society:
Cryptocurrencies take away the sovereign power of issuing currency making economic
policy ineffective and diluting the bond between citizen and government.
● Crypto is used for funding activities that destabilize society: Crypto is used by terrorist
organization, drug cartels, money launderers, etc. which negatively impacts society at large.
Anonymity in cryptocurrency has the potential to increase crime in society.
● Rise in inequality: Cryptocurrency is acquired and used by the ones who belong to upper
strata of the society, people who are digitally illiterate are being left behind. Thus, it can
lead to a disproportionate rise in inequality.
Effect of Crypto on Indian Society
Crypto is still in a nascent phase in India, with a huge uncertainty about its future. Recently, the
government brought a Cryptocurrency Bill to create a sovereign digital currency and also to control
the proliferation of private cryptos. Following are the effects of crypto on Indian society:
● Rise of new crypto community: With the rise of cryptocurrency, a new crypto community
has emerged – that includes amateur investors, professionals and jobs have come up in the
society. Example: Multiple crypto-exchanges have come up.
● Risk averse behavior among youth: As an asset, cryptocurrency has offered huge returns
in the past, so it has become a fad among Indian youth to invest in these volatile assets,
overlooking the risk associated with it.
● Crypto as a means to transact in a cheaper way: India is the largest receiver of
remittances. People can save a lot of money spent on conversion, processing charges, etc.
● Promoting the culture of digital extortion: India became victim to ransomware attacks
like Wannacry and the ransom was collected in crypto. India is one of the biggest potential
victims of cyber scams.
● Greater divide in society: India has one of the highest digital inequalities. Those who are
not able to afford technology are devoid of such digital currency thereby ensuring that the
inequality continues.
Conclusion:
Like all technology, cryptocurrency exchanges are neither inherently good nor bad. To make use of
the revolutionary potential of the underlying technology behind cryptocurrency, while avoiding its
negative consequences, a proper regulatory framework is required. Individuals, companies and
governments who move quickly will be the ones to benefit most and will perhaps have the biggest
role in shaping this new digital reality.

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 Q6. How does Indian society maintain continuity in traditional social values? Enumerate
the changes taking place in it. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Mention how Indian society has a diverse body of traditions at its core.
● Body:
 Mention the processes like enculturation, adaptation, evolution of customs, etc
that helps maintain continuity in traditional values.
 Then mention some factors that have introduced changes in culture and then
mention the changes.
● Conclusion: Conclude stating that despite the changes, Indian society is still largely rooted
in culture and continues to flourish.

Introduction:
Indian society has a long history and a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its traditional
social values. These values are passed down from generation to generation and are maintained
through various social institutions, such as the family, religion, and community.
Body:
India has maintained continuity in traditional social values through:
● Enculturation: Cultural practices and traditions are transmitted from parents and
grandparents to children. This includes teaching children about the importance of respect,
obedience, and obedience to elders, as well as cultural practices such as rituals and
customs.
○ For instance, despite urbanization and modernization, all members of the family are
always encouraged to be together to celebrate Diwali.
● Religion: Many people in India follow traditional religions such as Hinduism, Islam and
Sikhism, which have their own set of values and beliefs that are passed down through the
generations. These religions also provide a sense of community and belonging which
reinforces the traditional values.
● Flexibility: Indian culture has been flexible in accommodating different and even diverging
viewpoints.
● Tolerance: Indian society accepted and respected various religions and ensured that there
is a peaceful co-existence of religions. In India, tolerance is found for all religions, castes,
communities, etc.
● Evolution: Indian value system has evolved with time adopting progressive elements and
abandoning regressive practices. This makes it relevant to all times, ensuring continuity.
● Continuity and Stability: The light of ancient Indian culture life is yet glowing. Many
invasions occurred, many rulers changed, many laws were passed but even today, the
traditional institutions, religion, epics, literature, philosophy, traditions, etc. are alive.
These changes are driven by a range of factors, including economic development, urbanization, and
globalization. These changes have led to the erosion of some traditional values and the emergence
of new ones. Following changes are taking place:
● Increased gender equality: Traditional Indian society often had strict gender roles, with
men and women having different roles and responsibilities. However, there has been a shift
towards greater gender equality in recent years, with more women entering the workforce
and taking on leadership roles.
○ Modern education has made progressive values like gender equality, non-
discrimination on caste lines etc. a part of the value system.
● Rise of individualism and decline in collective values: Materialism and excessive
competition have led to an increase in selfish pursuit of personal goals while the collective
well-being of society is often ignored.
● Nuclearization of family and decline of joint family as an institution.
● Increased tolerance for diversity: Traditional Indian society often had strict social
hierarchies and a strong sense of community, but there has been a shift towards greater
tolerance for diversity in recent years, with people becoming more accepting of different
cultures and ways of life.

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 ● Social media is influencing our social values: Information technology has facilitated
quick transfer of information. Social media has led to greater awareness about the
traditional Indian culture and value system.
○ But exposure to western values, detachment from family affairs due to more
attention to social media, etc. has changed the continuity in traditional social life.
Conclusion:
Although, the forces of modernization have altered the balance of Indian traditional social values.
However, the interaction between the two is dynamic. The traditional Indian values continue to
assert their significance and their role in maintaining the society as one whole community.

2020
Q1. Has caste lost its relevance in understanding the multi-cultural Indian Society?
Elaborate your answer with illustrations. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define Caste and mention how it has long been considered as a distinctive
feature of Indian society.
● Body:
 As the question asks for caste‟s relevance, both sides have to be written about.
Mention about caste has become less important in many areas.
 Then mention how it continues to be relevant in several other areas.
● Conclusion: Conclude stating that caste is a social system that is still having its place in
the society although it has changed the ways and places where it manifests.

Introduction:
Caste is a system of social stratification with associated values and ideas that legitimized and
reinforced the existing social structure in Indian society. Caste has for long been viewed as a
distinctive feature of Indian society.
Body:
But due to many factors such as the visionary Indian Constitution, modern education,
industrialisation, urbanization, etc. Indian society has started giving less consideration to „caste‟. It
can be seen in following ways:
● Achieved status is of greater importance: Class is more important today than caste.
Educational qualification, occupational position, income etc. are the bases of identification
of the individual rather than caste identity.
● Reservations have improved socio-political representation: This has changed the very
basis of caste-based discrimination.
● Caste no longer decides occupation: One can no longer deduce a person‟s caste by
looking at his occupation.
● People today want to be identified as liberal, broad-minded and cosmopolitan. This
multi-cultural society finds caste to be a backward mindset, disrespectful and violative of
the Constitution.
● Public and private establishments: Restaurants, shopping malls, regional celebrations,
local festivals, public institutions, private establishments, do not consider the caste factor.
● Inter-caste marriages: Strict codes of marriage and inheritance have been diluted due to
increased inter-caste marriages.
But caste as an entity has not become completely irrelevant even in today‟s society.
● Caste decides aspirations: Caste still plays a great role in deciding personal aspirations
and social capital. This is particularly strong in the rural areas.

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 ● Inter-caste marriages are not that common. Even matrimonial sites cater to caste-based
preferences for marriage.
● Casteization of Politics and Politicization of Caste: Politics in today‟s Indian society is
ridden by caste-based identities.
● Violence based on caste is still prevalent: Several incidents have been highlighted in the
media and rogue elements in social media have sometimes used these incidents to flare up
caste sentiments.
● Manual scavenging: Most of the occupations must have become caste-free, but Manual
scavenging, the worst surviving symbol of untouchability, is still an occupation of the
people from the so-called untouchable caste.
Conclusion:
It can be difficult to fully eliminate the influence of caste, as it is deeply ingrained in many aspects
of Indian culture and society. Caste as a dominant force may not be easily visible today in our
multicultural society, however, it still thrives in subtler ways and holds clues to the dynamics of
our society. Caste has become less relevant for the upper caste and upper class, while for the lower
castes, caste has become all too visible in both, suffering as well as getting benefits from the State.

Q2. COVID-19 pandemic accelerated class inequalities and poverty in India. Comment. (150
words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Write about the inequality in India quoting some relevant fact or data. Add a
statement that the pandemic has increased inequalities.
● Body: Mention the various dimensions in which the inequalities and poverty has increased
due to the pandemic.
● Conclusion: Conclude with some government initiatives to counter this widening
inequality and suggestions if any.

Introduction:
Inequality was alarmingly high and destabilizing social and political order in much of the world
even before the pandemic struck. According to the Oxfam‟s Report “Survival of the Richest: The
India story”, the richest 1% in India now own more than 40% of the country‟s total wealth, while
the bottom half of the population together share just 3% of wealth between 2012 and 2021.
But the Covid-19 pandemic deeply increased the existing inequalities in India and around the
world, as per the Inequality Virus Report by Oxfam International.
Body:
Impact of the Pandemic on Class Inequalities & Poverty
● Poverty would increase significantly: As per a UNDP study, severe long-term effects of the
COVID-19 pandemic could push an additional 207 million people into extreme poverty,
bringing the total to over 1 billion by 2030.
● Poor will become poorer: The World Bank estimates that this pandemic will push an
additional 88 - 115 million people into extreme poverty with the total rising to about 150
million by 2021. The new poor would be in countries already having high poverty rates.
● The lower paid workers lost jobs: As per the World Economic Forum, the rich were able
to escape the pandemic‟s worst impact; the white-collar workers isolated themselves and
worked from home. However, the lower paid blue-collar workers like migrant workers, street
vendors and daily wage earners were more marginalized as they could not earn anything
within the confines of their homes neither did they have any financial safety net.
● Increased dependence on informal sector: According to the ILO, over 400 million people
risk sliding into poverty, as they are forced to depend on informal work.
● Food insecurity: The World Bank and the FAO have said that food insecurity has spiked
post-Covid in India and almost 50% of the Indian population is vulnerable to extreme
poverty.
● Inequality in access to health care: The disadvantaged and marginalized groups, such as
those living in rural areas and slums, faced greater barriers in accessing quality care.

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 ● Gender inequality widened: The unemployment rate among women rose post-Covid. The
CMIE estimates that the labor participation rate for women shrunk to 11% for women.
Beyond income and job losses, poorer women also suffered from poor health because of the
disruption in regular health services and Anganwadi centers.
● Digital inequality: As per Annual Status of Education Report (ASER), just one-third of
the students could access online education. Even fewer students can take live online
classes.
Conclusion:
Thus, it is clear that Covid-19 has increased existing inequalities at multiple fronts. Growing
inequality undermines democracy and democratic processes. It is ultimately good neither for the
society nor the economy. In order to combat the ill effects of Covid-19, the government has
launched PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana and AtmaNirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. However, undoing the
impacts of Covid-19 will certainly not be a short-term process. There is a need for policies and
interventions that address these challenges and promote greater social and economic inclusion and
equality.

Q3. Do you agree that regionalism in India appears to be a consequence of rising cultural
assertiveness? Argue. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define regionalism. Mention some of its positive and negative aspects.
● Body: Mention how regionalism in India can be seen as a result of cultural assertiveness.
Later mention how regionalism has other aspects too.
● Conclusion:
 Conclude saying that regionalism in India can be seen as a consequence of rising
cultural assertiveness but there are other factors too leading to its rise.
 Then mention how the positives of regionalism can be extracted to the benefit of
nation building.

Introduction:
Regionalism is the expression of a common sense of identity and purpose by people within a
specific geographical region, united by its unique language, culture etc. Positive regionalism
promotes a sense of pride in connecting to one's roots and culture.
Body:
Regional identities in India have not always defined themselves in opposition to and at the expense
of the national identity but the present wave of regional movements can be seen to be a
consequence of rising cultural assertiveness because:
● Cultural differences: India is a diverse country with a multitude of cultures and languages,
and regionalism can be seen as a way for people to preserve and celebrate their unique
cultural identities.
● Historical injustices: Some regions may feel that they have been marginalized or treated
unfairly by the Union, leading to a desire for greater autonomy and self-governance.
Regionalism becomes a tool for them to mobilize the masses using their cultural symbols.
● Political parties: Political parties often use regionalism as a campaign platform in order to
appeal to voters in their respective regions. This can fuel regional identity and a sense of
loyalty to one‟s own region.
o The reservation of jobs for locals in private companies in many states like
Haryana, Karnataka, etc.
● Social media: It highlights various facets of regional culture and identity to bring together
people belonging to a region. This cultural assertiveness further leads to regionalism.
● Imposition of a conflicting ideology or aspiration: Linguistic aspirations and expression
of ethnicity have long remained a formidable basis of regionalism. Example: Imposition of
Hindi became a trigger for regional movements in Southern states.
But it is not just about cultural assertiveness, some regional movements are due to genuine issues
faced by the people of the region:
● Crisis situations: Cultural identity becomes a tool to mobilize people in situations like high
unemployment, poverty, uneven development, continuous neglect of a region, etc despite

90
 being rich in natural resources. This leads to „Son of soil‟ movements with regional identity
as its basis.
o Ill-conceived top-down approach for development or survival of one region at the
cost of the other region.
Conclusion:
Overall, it can be argued that rising cultural assertiveness is one of the main drivers of regionalism
in India, as it allows people to express and protect their unique cultural identities, and can also be
used by political parties and governments as a way to gain support and advance their own agenda.
Rising cultural assertiveness has not allowed different regions in India to develop cultural
relationships with each other and within it. But India's solidarity lies in its variety, which ought to
be safeguarded and advanced.

Q4. Is diversity and pluralism in India under threat due to globalization? Justify your
answer. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define globalization. Mention how India is one of the most diverse nations.
● Body: Mention areas where cultural diversity is at threat due to globalization. Then
mention some areas where globalization aids diversity.\
● Conclusion:
 Conclude by stating that globalization has both good and bad effects.
 Pluralism and diversity can be enhanced by using the positive aspects.

Introduction:
Globalization is the process of expanding and accelerating the movement of ideas, people, capital
and exchange of commodities (goods and services) over vast distances. India is a diverse country
and India‟s greatness lies in its unique culture. India being part of the globalized world has faced a
significant impact on its cultural diversity in both positive and negative ways.
Body:
Areas where cultural diversity is at threat due to globalization:
● Linguistic homogenisation: The influence of transnational corporations has resulted in a
central common language mainly English, which dominates regional dialects, and minority
languages.
○ This impacts the development of local languages, literature and in some cases
complete wipe-out of some local languages.
● Cultural homogenization: There is increasing „McDonaldization‟ of Indian food habits.
Global market decides what's to be produced, resulting in low incentive for diverse products
which means Loss of local artifacts, promotion of western dressing, shift from local culinary
habits etc.
○ Unmonitored access to Western culture has led to increasing misrepresentation,
stereotyping and the risk of loss of culture.
● Individualisation of relations: Community affiliation reduced due to globalization as the
person is more concerned with one‟s own interests rather than the communities.
● Nuclearization of family: Joint family system broke down due to increase in economic
migration and choice for individual space as part of globalization.
● Marriage: As an institution, marriage has become more individualized and there is a greater
acceptance for ideas like live-in relationships which exist outside the domain of traditional
marriage.
But there is a silver lining too. Globalization has aided diversity in some aspects:
● Global opportunities: English as a global language has led to opening up of job and
education opportunities throughout the world. Indians have been particularly benefited in
the services sector.
○ Globalization has aided interaction between people of different cultural backgrounds
and helped people learn about other cultures. This has contributed to the emergence
of new cultural practices and identities.
● Wider reach of Indian culture: Technology has helped preserve some of the dying artifacts,
document local languages, made some Indian dishes and artifacts globally popular and also
exposed Indians to various global arts/movies etc.

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 ○ Example: Yoga has become famous globally and today we have 21 st June as
International Yoga Day.
● Lesser importance to Caste: Globalization has led to decreased emphasis on localized
castes. Globalization has led to the rise of lower castes by making them aware of their
rights. People eat together, and increased instances of inter-caste marriages are seen in the
urban areas.
● Women empowerment: Globalization has attacked the discriminatory tendencies and
patriarchal mindset in India. It has helped in getting rid of practices derogatory to women
and has helped in the rise of women and exposure of women related issues.
Conclusion:
India is a place where there is diversity and pluralism. The highly diverse nature of our culture is
the uniting strength of India. Globalization to an extent acted as a unifying force but monitored
access would help India preserve its multi-lingual, multi-religious and multi-caste society as a
means to preserve its diversity and plurality.

Q5. Customs and traditions suppress reason leading to obscurantism. Do you agree? (250
words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Elaborate the meaning of customs and how its an important part of the way
the society lives.
● Body:
 Take a stand on whether customs and traditions suppress the reasoning ability of
the society.
 But mention a few points on the counter aspect too.
● Conclusion: Mention that customs and reason have a complex relationship, but following
customs need not mean an absence of reason.

Introduction:
Customs are a widely accepted discourse to behave or do something that is clearly defined in a
particular society, whereas traditions are about the transmission of these customs or beliefs from
generation to generation. Customs are perpetuated because they are transmitted by tradition.
Body:
Obscurantism is the practice of deliberately making something difficult to understand to stop
people from knowing. This leads to blindly following customs and traditions, which is against
human reason. Customs and traditions that discriminate against certain groups of people or that
are based on superstition or myth can even become a source of conflict.
Cases where blind following of tradition has caused exploitation
● Customs like Sati and child marriage were perpetuated for long because of obscurantism.
The tradition of animal sacrifice in ceremonies is still practiced in many religions. The
custom of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is still practised by few communities. „Honor
killings‟ in India in the name of caste.
● The evil traditions of nikah halala and triple talaq propagated for so long in India despite
the tradition being illogical and unreasonable, just because of obscurantism by the Muslim
Personal Law Board.
● "Values" are sometimes used to justify forced marriages in Afghanistan, virginity testing
in Indonesia, "honor crimes" in Iraq, and marital rape in Kyrgyzstan, thus, violating
human rights.
● Caste discrimination is perpetuated even today in some places in the name of customs
and purity.
● Religion against the Right to Equality: For instance, the Sabarimala case or Haji Ali
Dargah, where women are strictly not allowed.
● For LGBT people, the language of traditional values tends to cast homosexuality as a
moral issue, and not a rights issue.
● During Covid, social distancing was a norm to maintain public health. But some religious
leaders evoked customs and traditions to promote social gatherings. Similarly, the vaccine
hesitancy among certain communities is traced to their belief that vaccination is against
the natural will of God.

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But customs and traditions, if understood with reason and adapted as per changing times, are
aimed at maintaining social harmony and wellbeing. This can be seen as follows:
● Some customs are always relevant: Indian traditions of greeting people, etiquettes like
washing the hands and feet before entering the house, etc. are good practices that will
always remain relevant. Even the western countries are adopting these Indian traditions
post-Covid.
● Customs help maintain social bonds: Customs and traditions can provide a sense of
identity and belonging, and can help to maintain social cohesion and stability. For instance,
prostrating before parents and elders is an act of respect.
● Customs and traditions as sources of knowledge: Some customs and traditions may be
based on accumulated knowledge and experience, and may reflect insights and wisdom that
are relevant to the community or culture in which they are practiced. For example,
traditional medical practices may be based on an understanding of the properties and
uses of various herbs and other natural remedies, and may be effective in treating certain
conditions.
Conclusion:
The relationship between customs and reason is complex and multifaceted, and depends on a
variety of factors. Customs and traditions form an important part of human civilization and help
people to align themselves in closely knit bonds but they can also be sources of conflict and
tension. By their very nature, customs and traditions are supposed to evolve constantly and meet
the changing requirements of time and social contexts. Thus, there must not be any scope for
obscurantism in customs and traditions and for that, reason must be the guiding light.

Q6. How have digital initiatives in India contributed to the functioning of the education
system in the country? Elaborate your answer. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Mention about the status of education in India and how the pandemic has
accelerated the process of digital education.
● Body:
 List down and give details about the digital initiatives taken up for education in
India.
 Add a few lines on how each initiative aids to some aspect of the functioning of the
education system in India.
● Conclusion:
 Conclude stating that digital initiatives are necessary in today's world, but it must
not be seen as a replacement of the traditional system.
 Rather there must be a collaborative element between both the ways of teaching.

Introduction:
The COVID-19 global pandemic has seriously threatened the traditional structure of education
(school, college, classroom model), and online education has emerged as a new option in this
situation. The Indian education sector has witnessed gigantic changes and continues to evolve at a
steady pace.
Body:
The Government of India launched several programs as part of its digital initiatives in education
like:
● The National Mission on Education through Information and Communication
Technology (NMEICT) to leverage the potential of ICT to make the teaching and learning
process easier and more accessible for all learners.
● SWAYAM portal: An integrated platform offering online courses at the school (9th to 12th)
to Postgraduate Level.
● SWAYAM Prabha: Provides 32 high-quality educational channels through DTH round the
clock.
● The National Digital Library of India (NDL): A framework of virtual repository of learning
resources with a single-window search facility.
● E- Pathshala provides e-content for studies.
● DIKSHA platform: Provides quality e-content for school education.

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 ● PM eVIDYA, a comprehensive initiative that unifies all efforts related to digital/online/on-
air education to facilitate multimode access to education.
● The Digitally Accessible Information System (DAISY) by the National Institute of Open
Schooling (NIOS) for differently-abled students.
Advantages of Digital Initiatives in Education
● Inclusivity: Digital Initiatives help education to reach the rural and one of the remotest
areas of the country. Also, online learning allows students to work in the environment that
best suits them.
● Flexibility: Digital Initiatives provide a vast arena to learn any number of skills and
courses without the limitation of time and space. For example, E- Pathshala provides e-
content for studies, and the SWAYAM portal provides an integrated platform for online
courses.
● Address the issue of shortage of teachers: While the pupil-teacher ratio for overall school
education is 26.3 as of 2022, it is highly uneven across standards and there is a great
rural-urban divide too. Online education can be a way to address the high imbalance in the
pupil-teacher ratio.
● Multi-disciplinary approach: Due to this, a growing number of universities and higher
education schools are coming forward to offer online versions of their programs for various
levels and disciplines.
● Cost-Effective: Digital initiatives enable lesser monetary investment as compared to the
traditional model of education. With the online mode of learning, the money spent on study
materials along with commute charges is considerably less.
Disadvantages of Digital Initiatives in Education
● Digital Divide: e-Learning is a privilege for the students from middle and upper class but it
has proved to be a nuisance for students from the lower middle class and people living
below the poverty line (BPL) as they do not have access to mobiles or internet. Thereby,
digital initiatives in education also exacerbate the digital divide.
● Traditional Classroom, A Social Institution: Organizations like schools and colleges, are
social spaces, whereby a student not just learns academic knowledge but many social skills
also which are necessary for all-round development of a child.
● Commercialization of Education: Development of digital learning needs investments.
Corporate houses, technology firms and educational institutions will be working closely to
achieve the goals of e-learning which may aggravate the commercialization of education.
This risks the exclusion of students from economically weak backgrounds.
Conclusion:
Traditional forms of education have certain drawbacks which can be corrected through digital
education. But digital education must not be seen as a replacement to traditional school-based
education. Digital education promotes quality, greater understanding, innovation, critical thinking,
etc, which must be fostered. But at the same time, it has its limitations in a highly unequal society
like in India. This is where policy and government initiatives must pitch in and transform the
education landscape even more radically for a brighter future.

2019
Q1. What makes Indian society unique in sustaining its culture? Discuss. (150 words, 10
Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Mention about the cultural diversity of India.
● Body: Mention the unique ways in which Indian society is able to balance the modern way
of living and still be able to sustain its culture.
● Conclusion: Conclude stating that there has been erosion in culture over the years, but
still Indian society is largely rooted in culture and is sustaining it because of the values
deeply rooted in the society.

Introduction:
India is known for its rich cultural heritage and diversity. The country has a long history of cultural
continuity and preservation and is home to a wide variety of languages, religions, customs, and
traditions.

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Body:
India has been able to maintain its pluralistic and diverse identity because of some factors that are
uniquely Indian, like:
● A Cosmic Vision: The framework of Indian culture places human beings at the center of
the universe, as a divine creation-which celebrates Individuality and differences of opinion
in the society. This helps members of Indian society to understand each other's culture by
keeping human life and well being at the center.
● Principles of Tolerance and Respect: Indian society has been founded upon these
principles which result in mutual respect and understanding for each other. The mutual
respect offered to diverse customs and identities has ensured that multiple cultures thrive
in this great nation.
● Assimilation: Since ancient times, migrants entered India. Their cultures were peacefully
assimilated into the Indian way of life, thereby enriching and sustaining Indian culture.
Even today, Western culture has been adopted by Indians, but not blindly; it has been
Indianized.
● Sense of Harmony: Indian philosophy and culture tries to achieve an innate harmony and
order in the society.
● Family and community: The Indian society places a strong emphasis on family and
community. This helps in passing down traditions and customs from one generation to the
next.
● Continuity and Stability: The light of ancient Indian culture life is yet glowing. Many
invasions occurred, many rulers changed, many laws were passed but even today, the
traditional institutions, religion, epics, literature, philosophy, traditions, etc. are alive.
● Spirituality and religion: The various Indian philosophies have given way to a spiritual
dimension in the way of living people, which continues to extend throughout life for most
people in India. Most religions in India place a strong emphasis on tradition and preserving
cultural heritage.
● Festivals and ceremonies: India has a plethora of festivals, ceremonies and a rich literary
and artistic tradition, which help to preserve the cultural heritage and traditions.
● Flexibility: Adaptability is the process of changing according to time, place and period.
Indian society has shown fluidity and has adjusted itself with changing times.
● Government support: The Indian government has taken various steps to preserve the
cultural heritage, such as setting up national museums, archaeological sites, and cultural
centers.
Conclusion:
In recent times, Indian society has seen a surge in multiple divisive issues like communalism,
casteism, economic disparity and ethnic violence, which pose a serious challenge to the time-
tested ethos of our society. Despite this, India remains a diverse country because our peculiar
societal genius is to fashion a form of coexistence where diversity can flourish and find its place.

Q2. “Empowering women is the key to control population growth”. Discuss. (150 words, 10
Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Explain the idea of women empowerment and write a few statements about
the status of population in India.
● Body: Mention how various aspects of women empowerment can help control the growth of
population.
● Conclusion: Conclude stating that women empowerment is not only a way to control the
growth of population but also to improve the quality of the population.

Introduction:
Empowerment is the process of increasing the capacity of individuals or groups to make choices
and to transform those choices into desired actions and outcomes. Empowering women includes
providing them with access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. This allows
women to make informed decisions about their own lives, including decisions about their
reproductive health. India is the world‟s second most populous nation and the population boom
post-Independence is sought to be controlled by various means, of which, women empowerment is
seen as the most important.

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Body:
Women empowerment is an important tool to limit population growth because:
● Decision-making: Women must have a say on the size of the family instead of spouse,
partner and mothers-in-law. Even today, for the use of contraceptives, most women depend
on the wishes of the elders of the family. Women empowerment would help women to make
decisions about family size.
○ Currently, only 11.97 per cent and 8.24 per cent women are able to make decisions
themselves on their health care and family planning use, respectively.
● Financial independence: Women are needed to be financially empowered to pay for needed
family planning and health services. An economically empowered woman is free to make
decisions better for herself and her family.
● Improved social status: When the status of women advances, population growth slows,
and the quality of life improves for everyone. The lower social status of women in many
places bars them from having control over their own lives and bodies.
○ Unempowered women in most societies are relatively powerless to refuse sex or
negotiate safe sex, especially in the context of marriage. This leaves women
vulnerable to sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.
● Political empowerment: Increased participation of women in political processes would help
women raise their issues in the parliament like non-availability of contraceptives, schemes
for aiding family planning and birth control, etc.
● Educated women are more likely to have smaller families and make informed decisions
about their reproductive health.
○ As per studies, women with lower education and greater son preference have slightly
higher fertility irrespective of their social background. Low age at marriage is also a
significant factor for high fertility.
● Empowering women also leads to better maternal and child health, which can help to
reduce the number of children a woman has, as the risk of losing the child reduces.
● Other methods of population control are less effective: Forceful efforts to reduce fertility
will further worsen the decline in child sex ratio at birth. For instance, „law-based
population control policy‟ is responsible for the elimination of millions of girls and has
brought greater gender inequalities in Chinese society.
Conclusion:
Women‟s empowerment is not only important for population stabilization, but also critical for
reaping the demographic dividend. When population growth slows, governments and families can
more easily invest in opportunities for women and girls, and women can more easily invest in
opportunities for themselves and their families.

Q3. What are the challenges to our cultural practices in the name of secularism? (150
words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define secularism.
● Body: Mention points which show that the practice of secularism does negatively impact
the practice of some cultural aspects.
● Conclusion: State that despite these few flaws, secularism is an essential aspect of India
as a nation and is essential for its growth.

Introduction:
Secularism is a principle of separation of religious institutions and state. India, since
Independence, has been following a peculiar notion of secularism, whereby all religions are treated
equally and supported by the State.
However, this concept, at present, is undergoing paradigm shifts. While the judiciary is enriching
the concept of secularism by inserting Constitutional morality as a significant component of
secularism, there is a growth of misguided perceptions about secularism. The ultimate outcome of
these changes is the rise of various challenges to our diverse cultural practices.
Body:
Challenges to our cultural practices in the name of secularism

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 ● Misinterpretation of Secularism: Some people interpret secularism as a rejection of
traditional cultural practices and religious beliefs. This leads to the stigmatization of certain
cultural practices as “backward” or “primitive”.
● Secularism as „anti-religion‟: This perception discourages various religious practices like
rituals, clothing, thoughts etc. People who wear the saffron dress, who keep beard and pat
skull cap (Taqiyah) and all considered fundamentalists. Those who do not believe in good or
abandon their religious beliefs are marked as secular. This thought is leading to a slow
degradation of cultural practices.
● Restrictions on Religious practices: Certain religious practices have been banned in the
name of secularism. These restrictions can be seen as an infringement on religious freedom
and cultural practices.
○ Example: Judiciary banning bursting of crackers; ban on Jallikattu;
Consumption of certain meats as per local preference is interrupted by banning
slaughter of those animals.
● Right to Equality: Secularism has been used as the basis for furthering principles like
gender equality in religious practices. The practice of triple talaq and the ban on entry of
women in Sabarimala temple were all declared unlawful by the Supreme Court.
● Discrimination in laws: There are different civil laws for different religious communities. It
is being sought to be unified into one in the name of secularism. But this would subdue the
varieties in our cultural practices.
● Political manipulation: The concept of secularism is sometimes used for political gains.
This can lead to the suppression of certain cultural practices for the sake of electoral gains.
Conclusion:
India must always be the perfect picture of booming diversity. It is obvious that while some of the
challenges are the outcome of the misleading notion of secularism, others are due to the
exploitative and discriminatory nature of cultural practices only. The solution lies in getting all the
stakeholders like religious leaders, judges, right‟s activists, civil society groups, NGOs and
government representatives together over a common platform to discuss the challenges and to
bring unanimity for preserving the cultural practices of our country.

Q4. Do we have cultural pockets of small India all over the nation? Elaborate with
examples. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Mention about the diversity in India.
● Body:
 Pick up 3-4 aspects and show how the diversity exists not only between different
regions but within each region as well.
 Thus, we have cultural pockets all over India.
● Conclusion: Mention that these cultural pockets have helped India sustain its unity in
diversity.

India is a land of diversity. The diversity exists in every aspect – language, clothing, food, style of
living, customs, etc. But it is not that the diversity is due to distinct isolated cultures being present
throughout India. The entities with diverse cultures thrive together in different parts of India. This
can be seen as follows:
● Metropolitan cities: People from diverse cultural backgrounds live as neighbors in cities in
Multi Storey housing societies. They practice their own culture while also getting involved
with their neighbors. This leads to greater awareness, tolerance and acceptance of diverse
cultures to coexist in the cities, which makes them pockets of small India.
○ For instance, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc have people from all over the country
living in close proximity.
● Migration: Migration of people seeking employment opportunities, marriage, etc. leads to a
cultural mix making the area pockets of diverse culture which thrive together. This is
important because the majority of the migration in India is domestic.
○ Example: Arrival of migrant labor from Northern part of India has made people from
Southern states aware of their language, food habits, etc and vice-versa.

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 ● Diversity at local level: Each person may have some things in common in some aspect but
may be vastly different in others.
○ Example: In the case with dialects, even though Malayalam as a language may be
common to Kerala, there are so many local dialects that the language seems
distinct. Their coexistence and continuous interaction is a representation of mini-
India.
● Culture spread: Cuisines, clothing style, traditional healthcare methods, etc. from diverse
cultures are being used across India. Social media and e-commerce has aided this spread.
This leads to creation of mini-India throughout India.
○ Example: today, Dosa for breakfast is as ubiquitous as Naan-paratha for dinner
throughout India. Similarly, dressing styles from across India are easily available
and are being used by people from diverse cultures.
● Festivals and travel: The Ganpati Utsav and those who celebrate it, form a cultural pocket
within Mumbai for ten days. Variations in celebration of festivals like Makar Sankranti,
with the tradition of kite flying in Gujarat to Pongal in South India, shows the cultural
pockets of small India.
● Higher educational institutes like universities and colleges: Students from every corner
of the nation irrespective of their hometowns, race, caste, class or any other differences sit
and study in the same classroom and take part in extracurricular activities and college
festivals together.
Conclusion:
It is very much clear to us that India has uncountable cultural pockets all over the nation with
different sets of values and outlooks towards life enriching Indian cultural heritage and validating
the fact that India is indeed one of the Cultural Superpowers of the world. But this diversity itself is
so well mixed that there exists a small version of India in the cultural pockets throughout India.
These cultural pockets have helped India sustain its unity and acted as a glue that binds the
country together.

Q5. What are the continued challenges for women in India against time and space? (250
words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Mention a few facts about women in India and how they have faced several
challenges since time immemorial.
● Body: Mention that some of these challenges have continued and some new ones have
come up. Also mention how the challenges differ across regions too.
● Conclusion: Conclude stating that women in India need social support to give shape to
their capabilities and reach greater heights. For this, a change in society‟s mindset is
necessary.

Introduction:
Nearly one-sixth of the world‟s women live in India and they form almost half of the Indian
population. Despite this, Women in India face lots of issues and problems some of which have
continued since centuries while others are new, some of which are common for all women in India
while some may be more prevalent in particular areas.
Challenges faced by Indian women emanate from Hegemonic patriarchy, which is prevalent in
Indian society. The discrimination against women appears to be common sense to such an extent
that even women also become the supporter and perpetrator of this very notion. This is a problem
that is common for all women in India and has been so since time immemorial.
Body:
This leads to various problems like:
● Female infanticide: This can be reflected in poor child sex ratio, i.e. 919/1000 according
to census 2011.
● Girls are the worst sufferer of the vicious cycle of poverty and malnutrition. This is
augmented by a lack of education and reproductive rights.
● Lack of freedom: Women in India do not have equal access to autonomy, freedom to move
about freely outside the house, social freedom, etc compared to men.

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 ● Motherhood penalty: The primary responsibility of taking care of family and bringing up
the child is still on the women. This includes unpaid care work such as childcare, elderly
care, and household work.
● Declining female labor force participation rate (LFPR): Many women have to retreat from
the workforce due to family pressures. They face „dual burden‟ i.e., they have to perform
both family and professional responsibilities together.
○ Despite increasing levels of education and declining fertility rates, the current female
LFPR is 25.1% compared to 57.5% for male.
● Commodification of women: The women are either shown as docile homemakers or they
are shown as sex symbols trying to convince the public at large to buy the product.
Domestic violence and dowry harassment within the confines of the house are also
extensions of this phenomenon
● Pink collar jobs: The women are mostly deemed fit for “pink-collar jobs” only, such as
teachers, nurses, receptionist, babysitter, lecturer etc. which have been stereotyped for
women. This denies them opportunities in other fields
● Glass ceilings: Even when women show their potential in their fields, they face artificial
barriers like stereotypes, media-related issues, sexual harassment at the workplace,
informal boundaries, which prevent them from advancing upward in their organization into
management-level positions. This is also reflected in an increasing wage gap between men
and women.
● Lack of political participation of women: Indian Parliament currently has 14% women
representation and 19 state assemblies have less than 10%. Even though the 73rd
constitutional amendment act mandates 33% of panchayat seats to be reserved for women,
the dichotomy between representation and participation can be reflected by the prevalence
of “Sarpanch Pati”.
Way Forward
● Better implementation: Indian Society doesn‟t need better laws but better implementation
of laws already in place.
● Reservation in parliament for women must be implemented as soon as possible. The
political awareness among women must be enhanced.
● The government must empower women through Self-help groups so that they can become
financially independent.
● Affirmative action should be pursued by the government to induct more and more women
into positions of authority.
● Society has a larger responsibility to disassociate itself from the stigma attached to women‟s
sexuality.
● Gender based legislation, budgeting and enforcement can go a long way in altering the
mindset of society.
Conclusion:
Though with rise in education, modernization and urbanization, women have got respite in some of
these aspects, majority of the women in India still face these challenges. Women issue is not a
political problem but a social issue, hence it requires a cultural revolution. Initiatives like Beti
Bachao Beti Padhao is a step in the right direction. In order to improve the condition of Indian
women, society must remember the words of J.L. Nehru: “To awaken the people, it is the woman
who must be awakened. Once she is on the move, the family moves, the village moves, the nation
moves”.

Q6. Are we losing our local identity for the global identity? Discuss. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define globalization and how it has created a dichotomy of local and global
culture.
● Body: Mention aspects in which our local identity is being lost. Mention a few points which
show that global identity has in fact given a boost to our local identity.
● Conclusion: State that a strict dichotomy of global and local is not valid today and there is
a rise of glocal culture, which is a synthesis of both global and local cultures.

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Introduction:
Globalization means growing interdependence and integration of economies, societies and cultures
from across the world. It is brought about by cross border trade of goods, services and technology
and flow of investment and people.
Indian society is represented by diversity in local cultural traits like local languages, different food
choices, dressing styles, classical music, family structure, cultural values, etc. There has been a
growing sense of insecurity among the Indian masses regarding the gradual degradation or loss of
our local identity. This gradual loss of local identity is popularly attributed to globalization that
creates a global culture in which the local identity is amalgamated to bring a homogenous culture
throughout the world.
Body:
Areas where local identity is being lost for global identity:
● Linguistic homogenisation: The influence of transnational corporations has resulted in a
central common language, mainly English, which dominates regional dialects, and minority
languages. This impacts the development of local languages, literature and in some cases
complete wipe-out of some local languages.
● Cultural homogenization: There is increasing „McDonaldization‟ of Indian food habits.
Global market decides what's to be produced, resulting in low incentive for diverse products
which means loss of local artifacts, promotion of western dressing, shift from local culinary
habits etc.
● Reduced interests in one‟s own culture: Due to globalization and media hype of western
culture, awareness about one‟s own culture reduced. People are blindly copying features of
western culture and giving less importance to their own culture. Unmonitored access to
Western culture has led to increasing misrepresentation, stereotyping and the risk of loss of
culture.
○ Example: Celebrating Christian New Year but neglecting the traditional Indian
New Year (around April), festivals like halloween etc.
But in some aspects, local culture is also aided by global culture:
● Wider reach of Indian culture: Technology has helped preserve some of the dying artifacts,
document local languages, made some Indian dishes and artifacts globally popular and also
exposed Indians to various global arts/movies etc.
○ Example: Yoga has become famous globally and today we have 21st June as
International Yoga Day.
● Local festivals at global level: Some local festivals are now being revived and celebrated
across the globe by people from those cultures.
○ Example: Diya stamps issued by UNO to celebrate Diwali. Even a local religious
festival of Chhath Puja is celebrated in Silicon Valley, USA.
● Media: Social media has enabled spread of awareness about varied cultures and also
enabled the interaction between people from varied cultures.
● E-commerce: The availability of different local cultural goods across the globe has enabled
people to remain attached to their local cultural roots.
Conclusion:
Culture is an ever-evolving entity that constantly changes through the assimilation of cultures. It is
our duty to preserve our cultural identity. Despite the local identity being attacked by the global
identity, local culture has been able to maintain its identity to a significant extent. There is an
emergence of a mixture of both global and local identity which is creating a GLOCAL identity.

2018
Q1. “Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, the caste
system cannot be eradicated in India.” Comment. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define caste system. Introduce the concept of caste associations.
● Body:
 Mention how caste has penetrated different aspects apart from social and

100
 economical.
 Explain the role of caste associations in this aspect and show that caste is only
being strengthened because of it.
● Conclusion: Concluding that caste as a system would be strengthened due to caste
associations and reducing inequalities is the only way to reduce the role of caste in our
society.

Introduction:
Caste refers to a broad hierarchical institutional arrangement with which basic social factors
such as birth, marriage, food-sharing, etc. are organized into hierarchies of rank and status.
These subdivisions have traditionally been associated with occupations, and in relation to other
higher and lower castes, decide social relations.
While the expression of hierarchy has changed to a large extent in recent times, the system
itself has not changed much. For example- even though untouchability and caste-based
discrimination are prohibited under the Constitution of India, occupations such as manual
scavenging consist mostly of workers belonging to the lower castes.
Body:
In fact, in recent times, the caste system has been evolving and is assuming new identities.
This can be seen in following ways:
● Political: Unlike the old structure, various caste communities have strengthened
themselves by forming political parties based on caste identity. Example- Bahujan
Samajwadi Party, due to which caste based political mobilization has been increasing.
○ Similarly, there is a rising demand for caste-based allocation of electoral seats.
Example: Lingayats demand that they be considered as minority communities.
● Caste has gone beyond its traditional scope: Today, caste-based associations provide
scholarships, residential coaching facilities for competitive exams, support for business, etc.
This encourages people to identify more with their caste identity.
● Uneven benefits: Development policies targeting backward castes and scheduled people
have only benefited a particular section of the population. These classes have emerged as
oligarchs and have created divisions within the backward castes. These policies have
strengthened caste-based mobilization.
○ Example: Major castes like Maratha, Khap and Patidar have been demanding
reservation. Socially empowered and land-owning communities like the Jats have
also united themselves and are demanding reservation.
● Discrimination still exists: Caste-based discrimination is still widely prevalent in India,
with the lower castes facing social exclusion and violence.
● Social: Due to the effects of globalization and technological development, with more inter-
ethnic marriages, strict rules of marriage and succession have slowed. But the expression of
social exclusion and maintaining caste-based division by communities has not disappeared,
instead, it has become more subtle.
○ Example: matrimonial advertisements demand brides and grooms from particular
communities.
● Caste has grown beyond Hinduism: In fact, caste is an important factor for marriage,
death and other ceremonial rites even among Muslims and Christians. Example: For Dalits
converting to Christianity, states like Kerala have separate community names, separate
cemeteries, etc.
● Caste based social media groups: Social media has reshaped caste mobilization and caste
associations have used it to create discourse, ideate, and connect with each other, and the
world.
○ Trending caste based hashtags on Twitter, videos on YouTube, etc are ways to keep
caste consciousness alive among people.
Conclusion:
As caste identity is seen to be offering benefits, people will continue to assert them. Thus, it can be
argued that the caste system cannot be eradicated in India. However, efforts must be made to
reduce its impact on society by promoting social and economic equality and challenging caste-

101
based discrimination. It is crucial to raise public awareness of the damaging effects of the caste
system and encourage people to embrace a more inclusive and egalitarian society. As the inequality
and inequity in society reduces, the relevance of caste and caste-based associations would reduce
and they would decline.

Q2. „Despite implementation of various programmes for eradication of poverty by the

government in India, poverty is still existing.' Explain by giving reasons. (150 words, 10
Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define poverty. Give few data or facts on the status of poverty in India along
with some initiatives of the government to reduce poverty.
● Body: Mention the drawbacks of the schemes and the reasons why poverty still persists
despite these measures.
● Conclusion: Conclude stating that poverty must be understood as a multi-dimensional
problem and it must be addressed at its roots rather than superficially.

Introduction:
According to the World Bank, Poverty is pronounced deprivation in well-being and comprises many
dimensions. It includes low incomes and the inability to acquire the basic goods and services
necessary for survival with dignity.
The incidence of poverty in India fell from 55.1% in 2005-06 to 16.4% in 2019-21 because of
several government initiatives like MGNREGA, NFSA, NRLM, POSHAN Abhiyaan, Sarva Shiksha
Abhiyaan, etc. But despite these initiatives, as per Global Multidimensional Poverty Index 2022,
India has the largest number of poor people worldwide at 22.8 crore.
Body:
The main causes for persistence of poverty in India are:
● Lack of understanding of poverty: Poverty is still understood on the basis of consumption
of food items. For instance, the Tendulkar Committee said an expenditure of about Rs.
500 per capita per month is necessary to fulfill basic needs. Any person earning more than
that is above the poverty line.
○ But this understanding is far restricted than the idea of poverty as a failure to
achieve certain minimum capabilities, given by Amartya Sen. The lack of these
capabilities makes a person unable to sustain his basic needs in the society.
● Limited resources: Limited government resources when compared to population. India‟s
population has steadily increased through the years. This exerts tremendous demand on
the government while it has limited resources.
● Lack of political will: Even these resources are not used optimally due to corruption, weak
institutions, top-down approach and lack of political will for addressing poverty.
● Growing inequality: There is a large income disparity between the rich and poor in India.
While a few people have access to vast resources, the majority of the population is left
struggling to make ends meet.
● Inadequate investment in social sectors: The government has not invested enough in
social sectors like education and healthcare. The poor are thus unable to escape the trap of
poverty as all of their energy and expenses are spent on meeting basic needs.
● Structural issues: There are underlying structural issues in society such as caste and
gender discrimination that make it difficult for certain groups to escape poverty.
● Unemployment: Unemployment is another factor causing poverty in India. The ever-
increasing population has led to a higher number of job-seekers. However, there is not
enough expansion in opportunities to match this demand for jobs.
Way Forward
● Rapid economic growth and the use of technology for social sector programs have
helped make a significant dent in extreme poverty in the country.
● A more comprehensive and inclusive approach is required to eradicate poverty in India.
● Change the understanding of poverty: Indian political, policy and administrative systems
have to adjust to the new realities of the transition to a middle- income country, in which
poverty does not mean living at the edge of hunger but, rather, lack of income to take
advantage of the opportunities thrown up by a growing economy.

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 Conclusion:
To effectively tackle poverty in India, it is important to address the issues and implement policies
that promote equitable distribution of resources, invest in social sectors, and eliminate corruption
in the distribution of benefits to the poor.

Q3. How is the Indian concept of secularism different from the western model of
secularism? Discuss. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define secularism.
● Body: Mention the difference between Indian and Western models of secularism.
● Conclusion: State that Indian model of secularism is broader than the West and it is most
suitable to the Indian multicultural society.

Introduction:
Secularism is the principle that determines the relationship between the State and the religion. It
plays an important role in a diverse country like India. In India, secularism means the State views
all religions as equal i.e., it has equal affinity towards all religions.
● The term „secular‟ is enshrined in the Preamble to the Constitution of India via 42nd
Constitution Amendment Act 1976
Body:
Secularism is understood differently by different nations. The Indian concept of secularism is
different from the Western concept in the following ways:
● Level of separation between state and religion: In the West, secularism is conceived as
complete separation of state and religion. But in India secularism, the state is not separate
from religion. Rather the state sees all religions as equal.
● Level of engagement between state and religion: While the Western idea maintains strict
separation, Indian secularism believes in positive aid to religion. Thus, we have the state
supporting religious minority institutions, state passing laws to stop harmful religious
practices, etc. The State is aided in administration by religious virtues and values.
● Diversity: The Western model of secularism is not suited for India because India has a
great variety in religion unlike the West which is largely having one majority religion.
Diverse customs and practices are also promoted by the State in the Indian model.
● Inter as well as intra-religious matters: Indian concept of secularism is broader than
western concept as it covers inter-religious conflicts as well as reforming religions from
within. Example: Laws against animal sacrifices, devadasi system, etc.
Conclusion:
Thus, Indian secularism is broader than western. The state in India walks a tightrope between the
requirement of religious liberty and the demand for equality and justice. The Indian model of
secularism, over the years, has allowed a multi-religious society like ours to thrive in peace without
the development of any major differences. This speaks volumes about the success of the Indian
model of secularism.

Q4. "Women's movement in India has not addressed the issues of women of lower social
strata.” Substantiate your view. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Elaborate on women‟s movement in India.
● Body: Mention the aspects which show that women from lower social strata were not
beneficiaries of these movements as they were mere participants and not planners in these
movements.
● Conclusion: Conclude stating that women from lower social strata make up the majority of
women in India and they are also among the most vulnerable. So efforts of such women
movements must be to solve their problems.

Introduction:
The women‟s movement in India has played a crucial role in fighting for women‟s rights, gender
equality, and empowerment. Though efforts were made to uplift the status of women prior to

103
 independence, the women‟s movement in India gained prominence in the 1970s and 80s. These
movements have tried to bring the women specific issues in the public domain. Saheli,
Manushi, Stri Shakti, Stri Mukti Sangathana, Pennurimai Iyyakam etc. are some known
women‟s organizations.
Body:
However, it has been widely argued that the movement has not adequately addressed the
concerns of women belonging to lower social strata. This is because:
● Mostly women from the upper and middle class led these movements: Activists within
the movements were largely from urban, western, and middle class. They were not aware of
the lives of thousands of poor, rural, underprivileged women all over India and thus these
movements are more concerned with gender issues affecting women of similar socio-
economic backgrounds.
○ Example: Early leaders like Pandita Ramabai, Kamini Roy, Sarala Devi
Chaudhurani, etc and later leaders like Medha Patkar, Ela Bhatt, Madhu Kishwar,
etc belonged to the upper or middle class.
● Limited focus on economic issues: The feminist movement in India has primarily focused
on issues such as violence against women, representation in politics, and reproductive
rights, among others. Issues of women domestic workers, women agricultural laborers and
women manual scavengers have been largely ignored.
● This is important because women from lower social strata are mostly engaged in informal
and unorganized sectors where they face exploitative working conditions and low wages.
● Ignoring the caste aspect: The caste aspect is highly relevant for women from lower strata
as they are the ones who face its brunt. But the feminist movements in India have largely
ignored this aspect.
● Ignored additional constraints faced by Indian women from lower strata: Women from
the lower strata did not have access to education, property, etc. and they had to provide for
their family as well. The elite class activists failed to provide alternatives for them.
○ For instance, the language used by the feminist movement is mostly inaccessible to
women from lower social strata who are often illiterate.
● Some issues are given big coverage while others are ignored: Several movements have
raised the gender issues through temple entry movement, triple talaq, etc. But temple entry
movements are restricted to the specified places only, and triple talaq makes up just 4% of
divorce cases among Muslims. These are not issues that are of much concern for women in
lower strata.
○ On the other hand, sexual and domestic violence is mainly perpetrated against the
women from lower caste and poor women but this issue has not acquired center-
stage in the discourse of women movements.
○ For instance: Women‟s organizations such as Shramik Mahila Sangathana took up
the issue of rising prices of essential goods, adulteration, etc. The political parties
mobilized women to achieve their own political gains but then left the matter as it is.
Conclusion:
The women‟s movement in India has made significant strides in advancing women‟s rights and
empowerment. However, barring a few examples like Ela Bhatt‟s SEWA, these movements have not
adequately addressed the concerns of women from lower social strata. To achieve gender equality
and social justice for all women, the feminist movement in India must adopt a more inclusive and
intersectional approach that addresses the concerns of women from all social backgrounds.

Q5. "Globalization is generally said to promote cultural homogenization but cultural

specificities appear to be strengthened in the Indian Society‟ Elucidate. (250 words, 15
Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define globalization.
● Body: Mention aspects in which globalization promotes homogenization. Then counter it
saying globalization has led to strengthening of local culture in some aspects, especially in
India.
● Conclusion: Conclude stating that global and local identity do not exist as isolates today
and the glocal identity is more relevant at present.

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Introduction:
Globalization means growing interdependence and integration of economies, societies and cultures
from across the world. It is brought about by cross border trade of goods, services and technology
and flow of investment and people.
Body:
Globalization is generally associated with cultural homogenization, which refers to the loss of
cultural diversity and the dominance of Western values and lifestyles. However, in the case of
India, globalization has led to the strengthening of cultural specificities. This can be seen as
follows:
● Resurgence of traditions: Globalization has led to a renewed interest in India‟s traditional
culture and values. There is a greater awareness among people about our traditions than a
few generations back.
○ For example, the popularity of yoga, Ayurveda, and other forms of traditional
medicine has increased globally, leading to a renewed interest in India‟s ancient
knowledge systems.
● Local adaptations of global culture: While globalization has led to the spread of Western
culture in India, it has also led to the local adaptation and reinterpretation of global
cultural elements.
○ For example, Chinese fast food has become popular in India but Indian Chinese
cuisine is totally different from traditional Chinese food. Even McDonald's sells only
vegetarian and chicken products in India and not its beef products, which are
popular abroad.
● Cultural revivalism: The threat to cultural diversity from globalization is sought to be
countered by reviving one‟s culture actively. Although this may seem to be protectionist, it
is actually quite helpful for preventing our culture from vanishing.
○ The increasing focus on learning yoga, Sanskrit language, classical arts, etc and
boost to traditional arts and performers is part of this revival trend.
● More trade opportunities: Increasing demand for local handicraft products in the global
market has led to culture specialities to be preserved and enhanced.
○ For instance, textiles like Pashmina, Phulkari, etc. Brass and Bamboo handicrafts,
etc. are global favorites.
● Tourism: Due to increasing global tourism, locals are making efforts to preserve their
diversity and revive their traditions as that is what becomes the most attractive part for
tourists.
Conclusion:
Globalization has led to the strengthening of cultural specificities by promoting traditions and
other cultural elements. While there are challenges to preserving cultural diversity in the face of
globalization, India‟s rich cultural heritage and diversity are likely to continue to thrive in the
globalized world due to this revivalism.
Q6. „Communalism arises either due to power struggle or relative deprivation.‟ Argue by
giving suitable illustrations. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define communalism.
● Body: Mention points which clarify that communalism arises due to power struggle and
feeling of relative deprivation.
● Conclusion: Conclude saying that communalism is a major threat and it must be
countered by all means for Indian society to remain at peace.

Introduction:
Communalism essentially means a strong attachment to one‟s own community. It is the belief that
because a group of people follow a particular religion, they have common social, political and
economic interests. Communalism is of particular concern for Indian society given the vast
diversity of religious groups living in close proximity.
Body:
If we analyze the recent Delhi riots and many other communal riots before, the following reasons
can be identified at its core:

105
 ● Power struggle: Communalism often arises due to power struggles between different
groups.
○ In India, the rise of communalism can be traced back to the British policy of divide-
and-rule which led to creation of religion-based political parties such as the
Hindu Mahasabha and the Muslim League. The struggle for power between these
parties led to communal violence and conflict between entire communities.
● Political ambitions of leaders: The politics of opportunism is the biggest cause of
communalism driven by the middle/ upper class for secular gains and trusted by the lower
sections that identify with the cause. Communalism has flourished in India because the
communalist leaders of both Hindu and Muslim communities desire to flourish in their
political career using the religious sentiments of people.
○ For instance, although the two-nation theory idea prevailed prior to Jinnah, it was
his failure in the elections that led him to push for violent forms of communalism for
gaining mass support and achieving his political ambitions. This resulted in the
formation of Pakistan.
● Relative deprivation: The essence of communalism is essentially lack of access to secular
needs. For instance, due to educational backwardness people from a particular
community may not be represented sufficiently in the public service, industry, and trade,
etc. This lack of access to education and job leads to a feeling of relative deprivation.
o Deprivation makes it easier to influence a group to fight for limited resources.
Rather than self-introspect they blame the other community for their condition.
It causes them to support anyone who can help them marginally move above
their misery.
Conclusion:
Communalism is a major threat to the integrity of India. There is a need to initiate the process of
de-communalization of the people at all levels by explaining to people the socio-economic and
political roots of communalism, and by letting them know that what the communal leaders project
as problems are not the real problems and what they suggest as remedies are not the real
remedies.

2017
Q1. In the context of the diversity of India, can it be said that the regions form cultural
units rather than the States? Give reasons with examples for your viewpoint. (150
words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Elaborate on the cultural diversity of India.
● Body: Mention how culture does not follow the political boundaries of States using 3-4
cultural elements along with examples.
● Conclusion: Conclude saying that cultural aspects are beyond any boundaries and culture
has its own uniqueness in its region.

Introduction:
India has been a highly diverse country in terms of culture since ancient times. Post independence,
demands for reorganization of states on the basis of cultural similarity, linguistic identity and other
factors emerged from different parts of India.
Body:
Though the government reorganized various states and also formed new states, the cultural units
of India are more aligned with regions, rather than the State. This is so because:
● Political boundaries are set up based on many different considerations: The major
consideration being the feasibility of creating a State and administrative convenience.
Cultural uniformity is just one aspect and is not so focused upon since there is free
movement within India across State boundaries.
○ Example: Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have similarity in Culture but due to large
developmental gaps, they separated out. So the Andhra Pradesh region has a culture
which is common to Telangana as well despite both being two different states.

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 ●Culture is influenced by the environment: Culture is a survival tool in any environment.
This can be seen by the fact that the culture of people living by the coast would be totally
different from those living in the hinterlands or cities within a State. Also, a similar
environment across States would lead to similar culture.
○ For instance, people of Konkan and Vidarbha have totally different cultures
despite being in the State of Maharashtra. Similarly, Rice-fish cuisine has been
practiced across all coastal regions in different states.
● Culture flows as a continuum: Culture is a way of life of people and thus people living in
proximity would have similarities in culture. This similarity would not go away simply
because of any political boundary. Culture would be spread across boundaries.
○ Example: Rural males in Southern Gujarat and Maharashtra prefer to wear white
Gandhi cap, shirt and pajama, whereas in Northern Gujarat and Rajasthan, they
prefer turbans, kurta and dhoti. Also, Eastern UP is more similar to Bihar culture
than to Western UP.
● Cultural variations accumulate: As culture varies locally, the variations accumulate and
at some point, become highly distinct. This leads to different cultural regions within a State.
○ For instance, Kerala has a lot of differences in dialect, cuisine, way of life, etc across
districts, although all of them are broadly termed as Kerala culture.
● North-East as a hub of diversity: North Eastern states were formed on ethno-linguistic
lines but Culture differs within and across the state. The tribes living in proximity would
have distinct cultural practices that separates its identity from the others.
○ Even within the small state of Sikkim, we can see two broad cultural elements-
Sikkim-Buddhist culture & Nepali-Brahmin/Hindus.
Conclusion:
No state forms a single monolithic cultural unit in India. While some cultures are spread across
State boundaries, there are multiple cultural variations within the States as well.

Q2. What are the two major legal initiatives by the State since Independence addressing
discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)? (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define the concept of Scheduled Tribe.
● Body: Mention two legal (i.e., a law has been passed by Parliament) initiatives for STs
which target discrimination against STs.
● Conclusion: Conclude stating that the initiatives have flaws but is a step in the right
direction for upliftment of STs.
Introduction:
Since ancient times, Scheduled Tribes (STs) have faced cultural discrimination and socio-political
and economic exploitation. Consequently, the majority of them suffer from the problems of health,
nutrition, education and income.
The Constitution of India has several provisions to prevent discrimination against people belonging
to Scheduled Tribes and to protect their rights.
Body:
Apart from these, the Government of India has taken up many legal initiatives for preventing
discrimination against STs. The most significant ones among them are Scheduled Castes and
Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities), 2015 and Panchayat (Extension to the
Scheduled Areas), Act, 1996.
● Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 2015:-
○ The STs face peculiar atrocities like accusation of witchcraft, disrobing of women
and sexual harassment, defiling their sacred places and forest deities, imposing
social or economic boycott, abusing them through words, acts or gesture, etc.
○ The Act seeks to prevent the commission of atrocities against the members of the
Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes.
○ All offenses under the Act are cognizable and there is no provision of anticipatory
bail.
○ The act provides for Special Courts for the trial of such offenses and for the relief
and rehabilitation of the victims of such offenses and for matters connected.

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 ● Forest Rights Act, 2006:
○ The ST population lives a life that is heavily dependent on forests for a variety of
needs, including livelihood, habitation and other sociocultural needs. Their
displacement from forests disturbs all aspects of their life, yet they were
discriminated against in matters of rehabilitation and compensation.
○ FRA recognises the rights of forest-dwelling tribal communities to forest
resources.
○ They are granted ownership for land that is actually being cultivated by the family
apart from rights to Minor Forest Produce.
○ By ensuring their right to forest land, their cultural aspects are also protected.
Conclusion:
These two legal initiatives have perhaps played the greatest role in addressing the concerns and in
protecting the rights and cultures of the tribal groups in India.

Q3. The spirit of tolerance and love is not only an interesting feature of Indian society from
very early times, but it is also playing an important part at the present. Elaborate. (250
words, 15 Marks)
Answer:
Approach:
● Introduction: Introduce the idea of tolerance and its relation with the diversity present in
India.
● Body: Elaborate on how tolerance was relevant for India in the past. Then mention how it
is relevant at present for Indian society.
● Conclusion: State that tolerance and love has been at the core of Indian society since time
immemorial and will always continue to be so.

Introduction:
India is a land of tremendous diversity in geography and cultures. The vast diversity in cultures
has been a feature of Indian society since time immemorial and this feature has been
continuing till present and will continue into the future because of a common thread i.e., the
spirit of love and tolerance. Tolerance allows divergent ideas, customs, beliefs, and lifestyles to
flourish in society. In the context of Indian society, tolerance is essential for creating a society
that is inclusive and respectful of diversity.
Body:
The spirit of love and tolerance has been a key feature of Indian society since ancient times.
This can be seen as follows:
● India has always been home to diverse groups: Whether it is the Aryan migration or
various later migrations and invasions, India has always been welcoming to the incoming
groups and many of these groups settled down permanently on this beautiful land leading
to co-existence. This gradually led to a feeling of love and tolerance between the groups.
● Buddhism and Jainism were based on the premise of tolerance and love which was
absolutely essential at a time when Vedic traditions were getting too rigid. It promoted the
spirit of love and tolerance towards people from diverse backgrounds.
● The efforts of various emperors and kings ranging from Ashoka to Akbar in promoting
diverse groups to live in harmony has been instrumental in boosting the confidence among
diverse groups to live together in harmony.
● Social reforms: Gandhiji and many other social reformers strived for Hindu-Muslim
harmony, fought against social evils such as untouchability, etc and were successful
because our society was tolerant.
But it is not just the past, the spirit of love and tolerance remains more than relevant in present
times as well. This can be seen as follows:
● Cultural homogenization: Within the large Indian society, various groups get intermixed
without losing their unique characteristics. This diversity is maintained even in the face of
globalization because of the tolerance towards different cultures.
● Defeat extremist entities: Any extremist groups like ISIS, Naxals, etc can only infect a
small territory or indoctrinate only a few individuals because the society believes that the
gains from these would be limited and short-lived. Love and tolerance towards diverse views
will give larger gains.

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 ● Reflect rationally and peacefully: It is because of the spirit of love and tolerance that we
are able to contain any communal disturbances within a short time frame, despite the rise
of fake news and provocative messages over social media.
● India‟s global image: India is home to a large number of refugees and its credentials are
unblemished when it comes to taking care of people who seek shelter and help. This also
exists in our diaspora as they are the first to help Indians abroad and this was recently
seen in the Ukraine evacuation.
Conclusion:
Barring occasional incidents of violence and hatred, Indian civilization has always celebrated
plurality and promoted love & tolerance. This spirit has countered the destructive forces within
India and helped Indian society to survive, sustain and flourish. Today, religion has a big role
to play in Indian politics and thus religiosity is seen to be side-lined by communal ideas which
give greater electoral benefits.

Q4. Distinguish between religiousness/religiosity and communalism giving one example of

how the former has transformed into the latter in independent India. (250 words, 15
Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define religiosity and communalism in introduction.
● Body: Mention the difference between religiousness and communalism. Then mention how
religiousness got converted into communalism due to political aspects. Then elaborate
using one example.
● Conclusion: Conclude saying that communalism is a threat to the social fabric of India
and must be uprooted in all its forms.

Introduction:
Religiosity is the totality of religious beliefs, values, practices and rituals. Communalism essentially
means a strong attachment to one‟s own religious community and is the belief that because a
group of people follow a particular religion, they have common social, political and economic
interests.
Body:
Difference between religiousness and communalism:
● India has always been religious, but communalism came recently: Indian society has
always been spiritual and religion has been the guiding force of Indian civilization by setting
the standards for personal and social life. However, communalism came as a result of the
British Divide and Rule policy.
● The basis for communalism is politics rather than religion, whereas religiosity is all
about adherence to one‟s religion
● Religiousness is more about attaining peace and harmony within one‟s self as well as
among people. While communalism is a power struggle against other communities and is
more focused upon some deprivation which is sought to be corrected by mobilizing people.
Transformation of religiosity to communalism in free-India:
● The seeds of communalism were sown by the British through their „Divide and Rule‟
policy. These seeds bore bitter fruits in independent India because communalism had
caused great pain to the people in the form of partition and other communal riots.
● The unease and bitterness towards other communities, although not so harsh, remained in
the hearts of people. The development also became uneven among communities due to
multiple factors and this led to further resentment among communities. Any trigger to this
sentiment in the form of an act or speech would make things worse and communal riots
would ensue.
● This was experienced in the Sikh riots, Ayodhya dispute, Godhra riots as well as the
recent Delhi riots.
● In the case of Sikh riots, the frustration of landless Sikh farmers, who could not reap the
benefits from the Green Revolution, was portrayed by radical communal leaders as a result
of the deliberate actions of the Hindu majority government. The leaders like Jarnail Singh
Bhindranwale used the tenets of Sikhism and enforced them using violent means. Thus

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 religiosity (basic tenets of Sikhism) was converted to communalism as a result of political
goals of the leaders.
Conclusion:
Religiousness was always a part of the Indian way of life. It has helped us dive to spiritual depths
that no other civilization has ever delved into. This is what held so many diverse cultures together.
Today, religion has a big role to play in Indian politics and thus religiosity is seen to be side-lined
by communal ideas which give greater electoral benefits. But transformation of religiosity into
communalism for petty political gains of few creates serious obstacles to good governance,
economic development and social harmony of our country. This must be prevented at all costs.

2016
Q1. To what extent globalization has influenced the core of cultural diversity in India?
Explain. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define globalization. Elaborate on cultural diversity in India.
● Body:
➢ Mention how globalization has affected the core aspects of Indian cultural diversity
by its homogenizing tendency.
➢ Then mention how globalization has also led to more awareness about our cultural
diversity.
● Conclusion: Mention that globalization has both positive and negative effects on our
cultural diversity and it is up to us to boost our culture by using globalization as an aiding
tool rather than being subdued by it.

Introduction:
Globalization means growing interdependence and integration of economies, societies and cultures
from across the world. It is brought about by cross border trade of goods, services and technology
and flow of investment and people.
India is a culturally diverse nation. At the core of Indian culture lies few elements like family,
language, cuisine, caste and religion.
Body:
Globalization has impacted India‟s cultural diversity in both positive and negative ways:
● Reduced interests in one‟s own culture: Due to globalization and media hype of western
culture, awareness about one‟s own culture reduced. People are blindly copying features of
western culture and giving less importance to their own culture.
○ Example: Celebrating Christian New Year but neglecting the traditional Indian New
Year (around April)
● Linguistic homogenisation: English has come to dominate over regional dialects and
minority languages. This has resulted in more opportunities for Indians to freely work
across the globe. But at the same time, it has impacted the development of local languages,
literature and in some cases complete wipe-out of some local languages.
● Cultural homogenization: There is increasing „McDonaldization‟ of Indian food habits and
increasing interest in Western consumption goods. This has resulted in the loss of local
artifacts, promotion of western dressing, shift from local culinary habits etc.
● Caste: Globalization has led to decreased emphasis on localized castes. Globalization has
led to the rise of lower castes by making them aware of their rights. Caste is a less relevant
factor in raising one‟s status in the society today.
● Nuclearization of family: Community affiliation reduced due to globalization as the person
is more concerned with one‟s own interests rather than the communities. Joint family
system broke down due to increase in economic migration and choice for individual space
as part of globalization.
● Women empowerment: Globalization has attacked the discriminatory tendencies and
patriarchal mindset in India. It has helped in getting rid of practices derogatory to women
and has helped in the rise of women and exposure of women related issues.

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 ● Resurgence of traditions: Globalization has also led to a renewed interest in India‟s
traditional culture and values in recent times. There is a greater awareness among people
about our traditions than a few generations back.
○ For example, the popularity of yoga, Ayurveda, and other forms of traditional
medicine has increased globally, leading to a renewed interest in India‟s ancient
knowledge systems.
Conclusion:
Globalization has impacted the core of India culture in multiple ways. While Globalization shook
many of its traditional tenets, there is a sense of revival of traditions using the means provided by
globalization itself. This would help India preserve its multi-lingual, multi-religious and multi-caste
society while being an active part of the globalized world.

Q2. “An essential condition to eradicate poverty is to liberate the poor from the process of
deprivation.” Substantiate this statement with suitable examples. (150 words, 10
Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define poverty. Give some data or facts regarding poverty in India.
● Body: Give points on how deprivation lies at the core of poverty and how eradication of
poverty can be achieved by ending the process of deprivation.
● Conclusion: Conclude stating that ending poverty is an SDG and the measures taken by
India must be focused on building capabilities of its young population.

Introduction:
Poverty may be defined as a sustained or chronic deprivation of the resources, capabilities and
choices necessary for the enjoyment of an adequate standard of living. Poverty is not just about low
income.
Body:
Although India has been able to reduce absolute poverty among its people, a large section of India
is still trapped in the vicious cycle of deprivation. While it may be possible to provide people with
basic necessities in the short term, it is not a sustainable measure as the State does not have
infinite resources. So, the essential condition is to build capabilities so that people can provide for
themselves. For this to happen, we must rescue people from the process of deprivation.
This can be elaborated through the example of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment
Guarantee Act:
● If people remain unemployed due to lack of job opportunities, they‟d be depending on the
State for their basic needs. The government tried providing food and other basic necessities
but given the limited resources with the government and the huge population reeling under
poverty, it was understood that it is not sustainable. So instead of providing them basic
necessities, the government rolled out MGNREGA which guarantees hundred days of wage-
employment in a year to adult members of a rural household.
● Now the people work as productive labor and the income earned helps them fulfill their
basic needs.
● Similarly, Lack of education covered under Right to Education Act and Samagra Shiksha
Abhiyaan; Lack of skills covered through Skill India Mission, PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana;
Assistance for building houses under PM Awas Yojana (PMAY), etc.
Conclusion:
With such a large population and the limited resources at hand, the demographic dividend can
only be reaped if we invest in building capabilities to liberate the poor from the process of
deprivation rather than giving away the basic needs as government aid. India is a champion of the
Sustainable Development Goals and by such measures can achieve its objective under SDG 1 i.e.,
end poverty in all forms.

Q3. Why are the tribals in India referred to as „the Scheduled Tribes‟? Indicate the major
provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India for their upliftment. (150 words, 10
Marks)
Answer:

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Approach:
● Introduction: Give a brief description of the concept of Schedule Tribes.
● Body: Mention about the major provisions for STs in the Constitution of India.
● Conclusion: Conclude suitably.

Introduction:
Scheduled Tribes are those groups of tribes who are listed in the Constitution as tribes and thus
enjoy special protection. Scheduled Tribes, as a term, was introduced as part of the Government of
India Act, 1935.
No specific criteria is mentioned under the Constitution for listing any particular community as a
tribe under the Constitution. Article 342 states that the President by public notification would
specify the tribes or tribal communities to be deemed as scheduled tribes in relation to that state or
Union Territory.
Generally, the Scheduled Tribes are characterized by distinct culture, geographical isolation,
backwardness in living and primitive traits. They are vulnerable to the influence of mainstream
society. Thus, the Constitution aims to protect their identity using the means available with the
State.
Body:
Major provisions:
● Educational, Economic and Public Employment-related Safeguards
○ Article 15(4): Reservation for STs in educational institution has been provided
under Article 15(4)
○ Article 16: Reservation in posts and services and in matters of promotion has been
provided in Article 16(4), 16(4A) and 16(4B) of the Constitution.
○ Article 23 which prohibits traffic in human beings and beggars and other similar
forms of forced labor has a special significance for Scheduled Tribes.
○ Article 46: Promotion of Educational and Economic interests of Scheduled
Tribes - It provides that the State shall promote with special care the educational
and economic interests of the Scheduled Tribes and shall protect them from social
injustice and all forms of exploitation.
○ Article 335: Claims of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes to services and
posts
● Political Safeguards
○ Article 330 and 332: Reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled
Tribes in the Lok Sabha and Legislative Assemblies of the States respectively
○ Article 243D: Reservation of seats (in Panchayats)
● Agency for monitoring safeguards
○ Article 338A: National Commission for Scheduled Tribe (NCST) - It is the body
tasked to oversee the implementation of various safeguards provided to STs under
the Constitution or under any other law for time being in force and to evaluate the
working of such safeguards.
Conclusion:
These are some of the provisions for the protection and development of scheduled tribes in our
constitution. These tribes have been facing many challenges but the government of India has been
taking measures to ensure the inclusive development of scheduled tribes in the country and
promote the vision of “Sabka Sath and Sabka Vikas”.

Q4. What is the basis of regionalism? Is it that unequal distribution of benefits of

development on a regional basis eventually promotes regionalism? Substantiate your
answer. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define regionalism.
● Body: Mention some of the reasons why regionalism develops and then focus on how
unequal development is one of the major reasons that promotes regionalism.
● Conclusion: Conclude by stating that regionalism is inevitable given the unequal

112
 distribution of resources but the government can ensure equal distribution of the benefits
and reduce the development of this feeling.

Introduction:
Regionalism is the expression of a common sense of identity and purpose by people within a
specific geographical region, united by its unique language, culture etc. Regionalism promotes a
sense of pride in connecting to one's roots and culture. It has been noticed that often regional
movements have helped the art and culture of many neglected regions to flourish by increasing
their exposure through local emphasis. But on the negative side, when the love and interests of a
particular region become absolute, interests of other 'regions' are seen to be mutually incompatible,
antagonistic, and hostile.
Body:
There are multiple reasons for the sentiment of regionalism to rise among certain sections. These
maybe as follows:
● Cultural differences: India is a diverse country with a multitude of cultures and languages,
and regionalism can be seen as a way for people to preserve and celebrate their unique
cultural identities.
○ Gorkhaland is a demand among people living in Bengal who have a distinct culture
from the mainstream society there.
● Historical injustices: Some regions may feel that they have been marginalized or treated
unfairly, leading to a desire for greater autonomy and self-governance. Regionalism becomes
a tool for them to mobilize the masses using their cultural symbols.
○ The Jharkhand movement was a typical example of how historical neglect of the
needs of the people living in the region led to rise of regionalism and eventual
bifurcation of Bihar state.
● Imposition of a conflicting ideology or aspiration: Linguistic aspirations and
expression of ethnicity have long remained a formidable basis of regionalism. Example:
Imposition of Hindi became a trigger for regional movements in Southern states.
But more than these, uneven development in different parts of the country may be construed as
the prime reason for regionalism. This is manifested in the case of Telangana and is being seen
now in the case of Vidarbha and Gorkhaland. The following may be some factors behind uneven
development triggering the feeling of regionalism:
● Concentration of industries: There are certain regions in the country where industries
and factories have been concentrated. The other regions are blatantly neglected which leads
to lack of infrastructure and employment opportunities there. This leads to further
marginalization and eventually a feeling of resentment towards others. This resentment
manifests as regionalism.
● Lack of Public facilities: Public services like Educational and health facilities are not well
developed in the states like Bihar and Jharkhand. This gives rise to a sense of relative
deprivation among the people against others and leads to regionalism.
● Geographical features: Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand are regions that were
having unique geographical features which made it difficult for them to attract industries
and build infrastructure. This led to several movements, ultimately resulting in the
formation of new States.
● North East is facing regionalism as a result of years of neglect in its infrastructural
development as part of nation building.
Conclusion:
In a country as diverse as India, regionalism is inevitable if the specific needs of the varied regions
are not addressed specifically. Through regionally balanced policy making and special focus on
addressing the gaps in development, the diversity of India can be converted into an asset for
national integration rather than as a divisive factor.

2015
Q1. Describe any four cultural elements of diversity in India and rate their relative
significance in building a national identity. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

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Approach:
● Introduction: Mention about India‟s diversity and list any four major areas of diversity.
● Body:
➢ Describe the four elements of cultural diversity with some elaboration.
➢ Then, as per your view, rank these cultural elements based on their significance in
building a national identity.
● Conclusion: Mention that maintenance of diversity in itself is one of the major reasons
why India has remained united as a nation.

Introduction:
India is a land of diversity. The diversity exists in every aspect – language, clothing, food, style of
living, customs, etc.
Body:
These can be seen as follows:
● Linguistic diversity: India is one of the most linguistically diverse countries. India has 22
languages as Scheduled languages in the Constitution with over 1100 distinct dialects. The
dialects show a continuity which makes it easier for people to understand and
communicate with each other. Distinct language and its vast literature acts as a source of
pride among people.
○ But the linguistic diversity has also been a source of conflict. For instance, Goans
are divided on the basis of Maratha and Konkani languages. In Belgaum there is a
tug of war between Marathi and Kannada speaking people. Assam is confronted with
Bengali and Assamese.
● Traditions, clothing, food: India has a rich tradition of music, dance and cuisine, with
each region having its own unique style of cooking and flavour.
● Festivals: India has a plethora of festivals at local and regional levels. There are also
festivals like Diwali, Holi, Eid, etc that are celebrated throughout India.
● Religious Diversity in India: India is home to a diverse range of religious beliefs, with
Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism among the most widely
practiced religions in the country. Religious diversity in India has played a significant role in
shaping the country's social fabric and identity. The foreign religions have interacted with
regional culture and formed a unique blend that is not formed elsewhere.
○ Example: Blend of Parsi culture with indigenous culture in Maharashtra.
This diversity in cultural elements has aided India to be seen as a country that respects all
traditions and beliefs. While the language differs across regions, people do communicate with
each other by learning the other language. Protection given to one‟s linguistic identity is what
ensures that people of India remain together as a nation. Similarly, the food from the Southern
part of India is famous in the Northern part and vice-versa because of the diversity in cuisine.
Conclusion:
Thus, cultural diversity has an important role in shaping India‟s national identity that is not based
on any language or religion but instead on common hopes and aspirations. The different cultural
elements have reiterated India‟s commitment towards unity in diversity. The cultural, linguistic,
and religious diversity in India will continue to play a significant role in shaping the national
identity of the country for generations to come.
Q2. Critically examine whether growing population is the cause of poverty OR poverty is
the main cause of population increase in India. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define poverty.
● Body: Mention the relation between population and poverty and analyze both aspects i.e.,
whether poverty causes population growth or population growth causes poverty.
● Conclusion: Mention that both reinforce each other.

Introduction:
Poverty may be defined as a sustained or chronic deprivation of the resources, capabilities and
choices necessary for the enjoyment of an adequate standard of living. Poverty is not just about
low income.

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It has been realized that demographic trends are indeed important in determining the level of
poverty experienced.
Body:
Whether growing population is the cause of poverty or poverty is the main cause of population
increase in India is debatable. It can be analyzed as follows:
a) High population growth rate leads to poverty- This view was popular in the 1970s.
● Pressure on State‟s resources: High population growth leads to more pressure on the
economic resources of the State. This leads to less power with the State to alleviate people
from poverty.
● Pressure on family resources: Greater number of children makes it difficult for the
parents to provide for their nutrition, health and education. Lack of these facilities deprives
the children of capabilities and keeps them engaged in the cycle of poverty.
b) Poverty leads to increase in population:
● From the point of view of the poor, one more child means two more hands to work and
earn for the family. This makes poverty a strong cause for a growing population.
● Lack of money and proper awareness about contraceptive methods makes it difficult for
the poor to practice family planning.
● High mortality risk: Poor lifestyle and high mortality among children leads to uncertainty
among parents. They thus go for more children to ensure that at least a few survive.
Conclusion:
So, the answer to such a question depends on whether it is to be seen from the government's point
of view or the individual‟s point of view. Population growth or decline alone is not a determining
factor of poverty. It is the ability of the state to make its population skilled enough to be productive
that makes a difference. Building the capabilities would make the growth in population seem as an
asset rather than a liability on the State.

Q3. How do you explain the statistics that show that the sex ratio in Tribes in India is more
favorable to women than the sex ratio among Scheduled Castes? (150 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define sex ratio and provide data for sex ratio among SCs and STs.
● Body: Provide reasons for the sex ratio among STs being better than among SCs.
● Conclusion: Mention how the egalitarian culture among tribes is key to this scenario.

Introduction:
Sex ratio (number of females per 1,000 males) is an important parameter that reflects the status of
women in the society. India‟s sex ratio was 943 in 2011. According to Census 2011, Sex ratio
among tribes (990) is more favorable to women than sex ratio among Scheduled caste (945), despite
tribes being seen as
Body:
Some of the reasons are as follows:
● Egalitarian society vs Segmented: STs have an egalitarian social structure whereby
females are treated equally in almost all aspects. SCs on the other hand are followers of
traditional concepts of patriarchy
● SC women face discrimination: Women are discriminated against severely in the society,
so the SCs prefer not to have girl children. STs, on the other hand, have matriarchy
systems as well. So, the status of women is much higher among STs.
● Poverty: Majority of the people from SC community are the poorest lot while they are also
exposed to the inequalities of the caste system. The girls are seen as a burden while a boy
child is considered as an additional hand to earn for the family. STs have an egalitarian
system whereby the excess and deficit is shared equally among all.
● Education: Education reduces the willingness to have children and the couple then prefers
a male child. SCs are more educated than STs and they have greater access to prenatal
testing methods, leading to reduced sex ratio.
● Dowry: SCs do follow the practices like Dowry which are followed by the mainstream Hindu
society. They may even borrow money for paying dowry as dowry is seen as a status issue.
The STs follow practices like bride-price and exchange whereby the marriage of a girl does
not become a burden on the family.

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Conclusion:
Thus, Scheduled castes follow the mainstream patriarchal culture, have private property and are
well off than tribals. All this leads to discrimination against women and a lesser sex ratio among
SCs than STs.

Q4. Discuss the changes in the trends of labor migration within and outside India in the
last four decades. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define migration and how it is significant for India.
● Body: Give trends in migration within India and outside India.
● Conclusion: Conclude suitably.

Introduction:
The International Organization for Migration defines a migrant as any person who is moving or
has moved across an international border or within a state away from his/her habitual place of
residence. There are several factors which induce people to migrate, the top most of which is
employment.
Migration for employment is either in search of better employment opportunities or due to inability
to get employed in their region. According to ILO, there are over 30 million Indians overseas. As
per 2011 Census, India had 45.6 crore migrants in 2011 (38% of the population) and 99% of total
migration was internal i.e., within India itself.
Body:
Trend of migration within India
● East to West Migration: The migration from the eastern part of the country i.e., UP, Bihar,
Orissa, West Bengal or North Eastern states, etc. to western part which includes
Maharashtra, Gujarat, Delhi, Punjab or Haryana etc. is almost a regular phenomenon from
the last four decades.
○ Initially Maharashtra, Gujarat and Kolkata were the only favorite destinations; but
after the green revolution and industrial growth in Delhi, Punjab and Haryana, they
became the major destination for migrants.
● North to South migration: Now there has been a shift of wage labor migration towards
South India as there is a shortage of labor in South Indian states like Kerala which is filled
by people from Northern states like UP, Bihar, Odisha, Rajasthan, etc. The wages in
Southern India are higher and are attractive to the labor class.
● Short term or temporary migration increased at a rapid pace in the last few decades in
different areas due to agriculture after the green revolution, construction sector especially
after boost of real estate, etc.
● Females recorded a higher share of migration rate of 47.9%; 48% in rural and 47.8% in
urban areas.
Trend in Migration outside India
● Semi-skilled labor to Gulf: Gulf region attracts a significant proportion of migrants from
India especially semi-skilled and unskilled labor.
● Permanent migration to West: Migration from India to developed countries like US, UK or
Canada on a permanent basis has been increasing given the improved quality of life and
greater opportunities available to Indians abroad.
● Unskilled/semi-skilled labor has been migrating to Southeast Asian nations like
Malaysia recently.
Conclusion:
Migration is a core aspect of a globalized world. The present trends of movement inside and outside
India are due to the demographic and employment factors. These are subject to changes, and
hence the migration trends would also alter with time and situations.

Q5. Discuss the positive and negative effects of globalization on women in India. (250
words, 15 Marks)
Answer:
Approach:
● Introduction: Define globalization.

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 ● Body: Give some positive and some negative effect of globalization on women in India.
● Conclusion: Suitable conclusion.
Introduction:
Globalization means growing interdependence and integration of economies, societies and cultures
from across the world. It is brought about by cross border trade of goods, services and technology
and flow of investment and people.
Body:
Globalization has affected all sections of the society, and women in India are not an exception. The
new circumstances created by globalization affects almost all aspects of women‟s life in India. Some
of these are as follows:
Positive effects of globalization on women
● Change in value systems: Liberal values have toned down the patriarchal mindset of
Indian society. The belief that women should be homebound has changed. More women are
independent and participate in family and societal decision-making.
● More opportunities: Globalization has undermined the traditional role of women in
homemaking, farming, livestock, animal husbandry, handicrafts, handlooms etc and
resulted in a relatively better environment for women. Women are able to engage in
productive labor outside their house which helps them raise their standard of living and
boosts confidence.
● Changing role in Family, Marriage, Caste: Globalization has posed a major challenge to
the institution of patriarchy in India. As women take up jobs and achieve social mobility,
they have also begun to stand up for their rights. Nuclear families have become more
common and marrying within the same caste has become less important.
● Rise in access to education and skills: Different NGOs have come up in India which
impart literacy and vocational skills to women. These make women capable of improving
their life.
● Political participation: Increased political participation of women makes it possible for
women to raise their issues and get them resolved through their direct participation.
Negative effects of globalization on women:
● Dual burden: Balancing the traditional role of women in the household with her new found
role as a working woman in the globalized economy is the foremost challenge faced by
working women.
● Gender Wage disparity: Although globalization has provided opportunities, it has not
addressed the inequality ingrained in the society. This is manifested in wage disparity i.e.,
despite the same position and type of work, women earned less than their male
counterparts.
● Feminization of labor: Females are considered apt for certain kinds of jobs, often called
„pink-collar jobs‟. Eg. Teaching, nursing, hospitality, etc. Anything apart from these jobs
are considered taboo by families and women are not allowed to enter such jobs.
● Distant from traditions: Traditional family values are fading. Women are no longer the
carriers of traditions. Working women‟s changing attitudes have rendered traditional values
obsolete.
● Decline in mental and physical health: Overwork has harmed women‟s health. Lifestyle
illnesses are more common among women. Fertility and mental health difficulties have
increased.
● Objectification of women: The Western ideas about women are etched into the minds of
people due to globalization while the core way of living in India is totally different. This clash
leads to increased objectification of women and crimes against women.
Conclusion:
Globalization affected Indian women in both ways, but there is a greater scope to improve the
situation for women as globalization keeps on providing new opportunities and Indian women have
infinite capabilities.

Q6. Debate the issue of whether and how contemporary movements of assertion of Dalit
identity work towards annihilation of caste. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Answer:

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Approach:
● Introduction: Mention about the term Dalit and what it signifies for the people.
● Body: Mention about Dalit identity, movements associated with this identity and the
focus areas of the assertion of Dalit identity.
● Conclusion: Mention that assertion of Dalit identity would only make caste grow stronger
rather than annihilation of caste.

Introduction:
The term Dalit means oppressed. It was used as a term popularized by Dr. Ambedkar to describe
the people in the Shudra and untouchable caste in the traditional varna system. The term Dalit
has become a political identity. Dalits today use the term Dalit as they believe the term is more
than being broken and is in fact an identity born of struggle and assertion.
Body:
Recent times have witnessed the rise of various Dalit organizations and leaders. The assertion of
Dalit identity by these groups has been to further economic and political gains.
● Political awareness: Various Dalit identity movements have led to Dalit consciousness
leading to political awareness and the notion of collective identity among the diverse Dalit
communities. They make up a sizable vote bank. Hence, political parties have been trying to
woo them or Dalits themselves have set up political parties and Dalit wings within parties.
○ Self-Respect movement among Adi- Dravidas in Tamil Nadu.
● Reservation: Reservation is the only reason why caste identity is recorded and maintained
by the government. Maintenance of these caste identities has prevented the annihilation of
caste up to some extent.
● Reconstruction of identity: For some Dalit is not a caste identity. It is an all-
encompassing term which carries the aspirations of widely deprived and oppressed sections
of society.
○ Shri Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) movement in Kerala
● Misuse of identity: Today the identity has pervaded so deep, that even in case of non-
discrimination the identity is highlighted. Some incidents with a Dalit are deliberately given
a caste angle. For example, the media reports an accident as „a Dalit youth killed in a car
accident‟.
● Socio-economic conditions of the Dalit groups have remained more or less the same. This
deprivation is shown as being a result of the Dalit identity and used by leaders to mobilize
people based on that identity.
Conclusion:
Therefore, it can be argued that assertion of Dalit identity has worked less towards annihilation of
caste and more towards political assertion of the group. In order to attain annihilation of caste,
caste identities must be weakened over time and not strengthened. The political movements to gain
mileage from identity shall be discouraged and any unnecessary use of the term shall be restricted
so that it doesn‟t lead to social division leading to further strengthening of system

2014

Q1. How does patriarchy impact the position of a middle-class working woman in India?
(200 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Mention how patriarchy is ingrained in Indian society and how the middle
class are the ones who follow it fully.
● Body: Give specific instances of how patriarchy is specifically impacting working women
from the middle class.
● Conclusion: Conclude saying that women from the middle class who engage in outside
work need to be treated equally and not be shackled in the chains of patriarchy.

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 Introduction:
Patriarchy is an institutional structure with male dominant or an ideology based on the power
of men. Patriarchy is essentially a system of male domination in diverse aspects of life such as
moral authority, social privilege, decision making, control of property, political leadership etc.
Patriarchy in India varies in degree depending upon the region, community, class, caste and
religious grounds. Middle class is essentially the section of society that is aspirational towards
economic growth offered by modernity, while it tries to be grounded in the traditional notions.
Thus, the effect of patriarchy is felt most by the middle class women.
Body:
The impact of Patriarchy on the position of a middle-class working woman can be seen as
follows:
● Dual burden: Balancing the traditional role of women in household with her new found role
as a working woman is the foremost challenge faced by middle class working women.
● Marriage: Marriage is seen as fundamental to the life of a woman among the middle class.
In most cases, marriage comes as a career stopper for women as quitting work comes as a
precondition for wedding.
● Child-rearing: Childbirth is seen as an essential part of marriage and Child rearing is seen
to be the responsibility of women alone among the traditional families. This makes it
extremely difficult for women to work outside.
● Wage disparity: Despite the same position and type of work, women earned less than their
male counterparts. The provisions of maternity leave have further increased this issue as
companies either do not prefer hiring women or pay them less than others.
● Earning but no say in decision making: Women from the middle class earn money from
working outside their home but her financial contribution does not give her any say in
family decision making, since she is not considered smart enough to make decisions. This
undervaluation results in low confidence and low productivity, while depriving them of the
opportunity to showcase their talent.
○ For instance, “Glass ceiling” effect whereby Female employees are not considered for
promotions above a certain grade as the patriarchal mindset considers them
unsuitable.
● Safety concerns: Middle class working women often depend on public transport and such
other facilities to go to work. They further face sexual harassment at workplace. Lack of any
security measures for women in a patriarchal society often leads to increasing crime against
women. The fear induced among women and their families further imposes restrictions on
her potential.
● Feminization of labor: Females are considered apt for certain kinds of jobs, often called
„pink-collar jobs‟. Eg. Teaching, nursing, hospitality, etc. Anything apart from these jobs
are considered taboo by families and women are not allowed to enter such jobs.
Conclusion:
Working women face an ironical situation wherein their financial contribution to the household is
appreciated but the very act of working is frowned upon. Gender equality is also one of the 17
SDGs. The goal notwithstanding, it is our ethical responsibility to provide equal opportunity to the
neglected half of the world‟s population, and for this, patriarchy must make way for more equitable
social systems.

Q2. Why do some of the most prosperous regions of India have an adverse sex ratio for
women? Give your arguments. (200 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define sex ratio and give data about sex ratios in prosperous regions of India
compared to other regions.
● Body: Mention the reasons for the reduction in sex ratio despite increased prosperity and
education.
● Conclusion: Conclude saying that awareness for changing societal mindset is absolutely
necessary to counter this trend.

Introduction:
India‟s sex ratio (females per 1,000 males) was 943 in 2011. But this is not the picture of all of
India. According to the NITI Aayog‟s SDG 2019 Index, the sex ratio in Punjab fell from 893 to

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 886 in 2019. Haryana has performed worse than Punjab, having a sex ratio of 833. These are
states with high per capita incomes but still perform badly in the case of Sex ratio, while the
data is better in Bihar, Jharkhand and socially and economically weaker societies.
Body:
Reasons for increasing prosperity leading to adverse sex ratio can be seen as follows:
● Son-Preference: Parents still believe they will be better taken care of in their old age by
men, as men are perceived as the principal wage earners of the family.
● Educated women desire only one child: Many of the young couple‟s desire smaller
families as the educated women have greater bodily choices. But these couples prefer a
male child because the lone child would inherit their property.
● Property: The prosperous regions of India attach high value to their property. The social
norms are such that only the male child gets to inherit the property. Due to this, the
families prefer a male child.
● Social Practices: Despite banning dowry and making it a criminal offense, the dowry
system is still prevalent in India. In many cases dowry is taken even if the bride herself is
economically independent.
● Accessibility to postnatal sex selection techniques: Better income and awareness of
postnatal sex selection techniques makes it easy for couples to access such technology,
even if banned by law.
o Child sex ratio reflects the imbalance between the number of girls and boys,
indicating that the practice of sex selection (along with other factors such as
selective neglect of girls) have led to a drastic decline in the number of girls
compared to the number of boys.
Conclusion:
Changes in the society‟s mindset, better enforcement of dowry and sex-selective abortion laws
along with changes in inheritance laws would be instrumental in improving the sex ratio in the
prosperous states. Population control must not be about controlling the birth of females alone.
Although India has been successful in reducing its population growth rates near to TFR levels,
India has a long way to go to achieve a balanced sex ratio.

Q3. The life cycle of a joint family depends on economic factors rather than social values.
Discuss. (200 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Elaborate the idea of joint family.
● Body: Mention how economic considerations are key factors today in determining when
and whether the family stays joint and when it splits into a nuclear family.
● Conclusion: Mention that traditional practices are followed by a society based on its
economic capacity, hence, the lifecycle of joint family too is determined by economic factors
rather than social values.

Introduction:
The joint family is an extension of the nuclear family (parents and dependent children), and it
typically grows when children do not leave their parents‟ home at marriage but bring their
spouse to live with them.
Body:
The phases of a joint family can be explained by various socio-cultural factors. However, today
economic considerations are seen to be of greater importance in deciding the life cycle of a joint
family. This can be seen as follows:
● Migration for jobs: As globalization increased, jobs which require more individualization
were on the rise in cities. The migration of younger generations to cities for such jobs led to
the breakdown of joint families.
● Western way of life: Western way of life is highly materialistic. Such a life cannot be
sustained if a large number of dependents are to be supported. This has led to rise in
nuclear families and decline in joint family systems.
● Need for social security: During Covid pandemic, joint families were revived as people
migrated back to villages and also began focusing on dependability in case of crisis.

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 ● Expensive life in cities: With increasing cost of living in cities, there has been an increase
in the joint family system which helps in living a better life by utilizing economies-of-scale.
● Working women: Joint families reduce the burden of child-rearing making it easier for
women to engage in jobs elsewhere. In families where husband and wife are employed,
grandparents are often needed to take care of young ones as day-care services are expensive
in cities.
● Business interests: Joint families are common among the affluent sections of the Indian
society as they believe in having many members who can help run the business.
Conclusion:
The continuation of social norms and cultural practices like the joint family system depends on the
economic capacity of the family. Thus, economic factors, rather than social values, decide the life
cycle of joint family in Indian society.

Q4. Discuss the various economic and socio-cultural forces that are driving increasing
feminization of agriculture in India. (200 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
 Introduction: Mention what the term feminization of agriculture means.
 Body: Mention the major socio-economic causes for the rising number of women in the
agriculture sector.
 Conclusion: Mention that feminization of agriculture is a reality and the government must
take steps to address their concerns specifically.

Introduction:
Feminization refers to increased participation of women in agricultural activities. According to
NSSO data, more than 70% of rural women workers are engaged in agricultural work.
Body:
Some major Causes for Feminization of Indian Agriculture are:
● Male Migration: Agriculture distress has made it inevitable for men to seek alternatives,
mostly casual labor. Males are more likely to migrate and move from rural to urban areas in
search of better job opportunities, while females are primarily responsible for various roles
in agriculture.
○ As per the 2011 census, approximately 1/3rd of rural male migrated to cities in
search of employment and better economic opportunities leading to increased
participation of women in agriculture and allied activities.
● Gender wage gap: Men are paid more than women in many of the jobs. When a male can
get more by working elsewhere, the low-income work of an agricultural laborer is left for
women.
● Increased mechanization: With increased use of machines, men have moved to other
activities, while traditional physical work like harvesting are typified as women‟s work.
Women are thus more engaged as agriculture labor rather than as cultivators.
● Scope for exploitation: Given the lack of literacy and skills for agriculture among women,
they are more willing to accept low-paid irregular work and are easy to hire and fire.
● Poverty: Women often work as agricultural laborers in order to supplement the family's
income.
Conclusion:
With these factors only being strengthened, feminization of agriculture must be accepted as a
reality. Inclusive approaches in agricultural policy implementation are required to recognize the
presence and contribution of women in the sector. Recognition of land ownership, better extension
services and training programmes aimed at women, etc can address gender disparity.

Q5. How do the India debates on secularism differ from the debates in the West? (200
words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

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Approach:
● Introduction: Define secularism.
● Body: Mention the differentiating points between Indian and Western secularism.
● Conclusion: Conclude by stating that secularism in India is best suited for its needs given
the large diversity in its society.

Introduction:
Secularism is the principle that determines the relationship between the State and the religion.
It plays an important role in a diverse country like India. In India, secularism means the State
views all religions as equal i.e., it has equal affinity towards all religions. The term „secular‟ is
enshrined in the Preamble to the Constitution of India via 42nd Constitution Amendment Act,
1976.
Body:
Secularism is understood differently by different nations. The Indian debate on secularism is
different from the Western concept as the basis of secularism differs significantly. This can be
seen as follows:
● Level of separation between state and religion: In the West, secularism is conceived as
complete separation of state and religion. But in India secularism, the state is not separate
from religion. Rather the state sees all religions as equal.
● Level of engagement between state and religion: While the Western idea maintains strict
separation, Indian secularism believes in positive aid to religion. Thus, we have the state
supporting religious minority institutions, state passing laws to stop harmful religious
practices, state supporting pilgrimages of all religious groups, etc. The State in turn is aided
in administration by religious virtues and values apart from political support of the group.
● Diversity: The Western model of secularism is not suited for India because in India
difference exists in terms of religions and culture, unlike the West which is largely having
one majority religion.
● Inter as well as intra-religious matters are covered: Indian secularism is a result of
interaction between the existent diversity in the society and the secularism principles of the
West. This led to equal focus on inter-religious and intra-religious matters, unlike in the
West.
Conclusion:
Thus, Indian secularism is broader than western. The Western idea is more negative while the
Indian concept is more positive with a focus on mutual co-existence rather than separation. The
essence of the Indian model of secularism lies in forging a positive relation between the state and
religion in the social and cultural realm rather than pulling up an iron curtain between religion
and State, both of which are essential parts of every society.

2013
Q1. Discuss the various social problems which originated out of the speedy process of
urbanization in India. (200 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define urbanization.
● Body: Mention some of the problems arising due to speedy urbanization.
● Conclusion: Mention how the government has taken up some initiatives to address these
problems but more needs to be done.

Introduction:
Urbanization is the process of society‟s transformation from a predominantly rural to a
predominantly urban population. In India, over 35% of the population lives in urban areas, and
by 2030, over 50% of India‟s population is expected to live in urban areas.

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Body:
But the speedy process of urbanization has led to numerous social problems. These can be seen as
follows:
● Unplanned urbanization and lack of facilities: While urban areas continue to attract
people, there are no means to address the rising demands for basic services such as clean
water, public transportation, sewage treatment and housing. For instance, huge quantities
of garbage generated by the cities pose a serious health challenge.
○ Example: Bhalswa and Ghazipur landfills in Delhi form huge mountain like
structures which are often exposed to fire as well, causing air, water and land
pollution.
● Rising urban poverty and inequality: Rapid urbanization has led to high inequality in
cities. Proliferation of slums are a result of this inequality.
● Family structure has weakened: Increased focus on economic gains to meet the expensive
way of living in cities has led to people giving less importance to family relations.
● Women are vulnerable: Women in urban areas are vulnerable to being exploited both
physically and economically. Because women often lack education, they are engaged in low
paying informal jobs, especially as domestic maid, which involves a lot of work but meager
pay. They lack any social security and are prone to sexual harassment.
● Anonymity: Speedy urbanization has led to overcrowding which has made people
anonymous. People thus engage in crimes, drugs and alcohol as they do not fear being
noticed. Urban Crimes such as human trafficking, sexual assault, child labour etc
proliferate. Children are more vulnerable as seen in the rising case of juvenile delinquency.
Conclusion:
Urbanization is not a problem in and of itself, but unsustainable and unplanned urbanization will
inevitably cause socioeconomic problems. Although these issues cannot be completely resolved,
they must be addressed in a systematic and scientific manner. Several smart urbanization
measures like Smart Cities Mission, AMRUT etc are being taken up by the government to address
these issues. To make urbanization a more positive phenomenon, society and government should
collaborate.

Q2. “Male membership needs to be encouraged in order to make women‟s organizations

free from gender bias.” Comment. (200 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:
Approach:
● Introduction: Mention about the role of women‟s organization.
● Body: Mention the problems faced due to women only membership and how male
membership can be seen as a remedy to some of these problems.
● Conclusion: Mention that women‟s organizations must not see men as against their
interest. Male membership would only enhance the outcomes envisaged by these
organizations.
Introduction:
Women‟s organizations are key to addressing the core problems faced by women in the society as
they truly understand and develop solutions focused on women.
Radical feminists hold a deep conviction that only women can understand women‟s problems and
struggles. They believe membership should be only for women in social organizations and NGOs
created to carry forward the fight against discrimination.
Body:
However, this view is countered and male membership is sought in the women‟s organization
because:
● Perpetuation of discrimination: Women only membership may result in stifling of
opinions and creates stereotypes which fuels dissent and perpetuates discrimination.
● Gender bias: Without the support of men, legitimate movement for gender equality may
become a cult of misandry and subside into mere show without any sustainable
achievement of gender equality.
● Making men understand: Inclusion of men in such organizations would help men gain
insights into the problems faced by women. This can also help in coming up with
solutions that include the male psyche.
● Men have historically contributed: Historically, many men have significantly contributed
to the upliftment of women‟s condition. Raja Ram Mohan Roy fought for better position of

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 women in society and eradication of regressive social practices like Sati. Pandit Ishwar
Chandra Vidyasagar led the movement for women education and widow remarriage.
● Checking misuse: Laws meant to protect women interests are sometimes seen to be
misused by women against men just because of personal vendetta or some other interests.
This reduces the credibility of the purpose of these laws. Male membership can act as a
barrier to such misuse.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, both male and female have to coexist. None can flourish alone. So, including male into
women‟s organizations is necessary. A congenial atmosphere of free discussion and equitable
distribution needs to be created for removing gender-based disadvantages from society. If
encouragement of male membership to women‟s organization would make them free from gender
bias it should be allowed.

Q3. Critically examine the effect of globalization on the aged population in India. (200
words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define globalization. Mention that India has a growing aged population
along with some facts.
● Body: Mention the effects of globalization on the aged people, especially on their social
security, health and well-being and economic stability.
● Conclusion: Conclude stating that the elderly are an asset if the tools of globalization are
used properly. They must be guarded against the ill effects of globalization by increasing
social security.

Introduction:
Globalization means growing interdependence and integration of economies, societies and cultures
from across the world. It is brought about by cross border trade of goods, services and technology
and flow of investment and people.
According to the National Commission on Population, the share of the elderly in India‟s population,
close to 9% in 2011, is growing fast and may reach 18% by 2036. This shift is a result of a
combination of factors, including increased life expectancy and declining birth rates.
Body:
Globalization has played a role in these demographic changes. This can be seen as follows:
● Health: Aged citizens are the most in need of care. Globalization has led to the induction of
advanced medical technologies in India. They have decreased costs and increased
accessibility to health care for the elderly. It has doubled the average life expectancy of the
Indian population. But healthcare has become commercialized due to globalization and the
elderly find it to be unaffordable.
● Family: Globalization has led to the rise of nuclear families. The aged members are
increasingly secluded from families. They are often left at old age centers or under the care
of paid home-nurses.
● Economic impact: Globalization has increased opportunities in business whereby the
elderly are able to put to use their knowledge and experience across the globe from the
confines of one‟s house. It has increased avenues for diversification of retirement
investments but the elderly lack awareness and are risk averse.
● Impact of inflation: Globalization has also led to faster inflation whereby the elderly
population find their savings to be too little for their sustenance. The lack of social
security measures and erosion of traditional family support adds to it. This has led to
increased anxieties.
● Culture Shock: Globalization has significantly altered the way of life in India. The rapid
cultural shock that the elderly experience because of globalization has led them into a trap
of anxiety.
● Technology: Globalization has led to a rapid rise in Information Communication
Technology (ICT). Elderly are often technology averse and reluctant to embrace change.
Conclusion:
As India continues to grapple with the challenges of an aging population, it will be important to
find ways to address the negative effects of globalization while harnessing its positive impacts. If
India is to ensure a decent quality of life for the elderly in the near future, planning and providing

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for it must begin today while using the tools of globalization to help the aged population use their
skill sets to its maximum potential.

Q4. Growing feeling of regionalism is an important factor in the generation of demand for a
separate State. Discuss. (200 words, 10 Marks)
Answer:

Approach:
● Introduction: Define regionalism. Mention some of the factors that lead to the rise of
regionalism and then say that it is one of the key factors for the demand for separate
states.
● Body: Mention the reasons why regionalism develops and how a separate state is seen to
be a way to address many of these concerns.
● Conclusion: Conclude stating that regionalism as a feeling in India is inevitable given its
vast diversity, but demands for a separate state can be reduced by addressing policy issues
of the region.

Introduction:
Regionalism is the expression of a common sense of identity and purpose by people within a
specific geographical region, united by its unique language, culture etc. Regionalism promotes a
sense of pride in connecting to one's roots and culture.
Body:
A growing feeling of regionalism is an important factor in the generation of demand for a separate
state because:
● Cultural differences: India is a diverse country with a multitude of cultures and languages,
and people hold their culture as something really sacred to them. Regionalism can be seen
as a way for people to preserve and celebrate their unique cultural identities.
● Historical injustices: Some regions may feel that they have been marginalized or treated
unfairly, leading to a desire for greater autonomy and self-governance. Regionalism
becomes a tool for them to mobilize the masses using their cultural symbols.
● Geographical features: Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand are regions that were
having unique geographical features which made it difficult for them to attract industries
and build infrastructure. This led to several movements that evoked regionalism among
people, ultimately resulting in the formation of new States. Similar was the case with
Telangana.
● Lack of Public facilities: Public services like Educational and health facilities if not well
developed gives rise to a sense of relative deprivation among the people against others and
leads to regionalism. People feel that an autonomous state would focus more on providing
these facilities for themselves, and thus the demand for new States arises.
Conclusion:
In a country as diverse as India, regionalism is inevitable if the specific needs of the varied regions
are not addressed specifically. Through regionally balanced policy making and special focus on
addressing the gaps in development, the sentiments of regionalism can be controlled so that the
demand for separate states does not arise frequently.



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GEOGRAPHY

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 2022
Q1. Describe the characteristics and types of primary rocks. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Briefly define the Primary Rock.
• Body: Mention characteristics and types of Primary Rocks.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the importance of Primary Rock.

Introduction:
Primary rock, also known as igneous rock, is formed through the solidification of molten material,
such as magma or lava. It is characterized by its crystalline structure and diverse mineral
composition. Primary rocks provide valuable insights into the Earth's geological history and are
essential components of the rock cycle.
Body:
● Type of Primary Rock:
➢ Granite: A coarse-grained intrusive rock composed of quartz, feldspar, and mica,
widely used in construction.
➢ Basalt: A fine-grained extrusive rock rich in iron and magnesium, commonly found
in volcanic areas and used in road construction.
➢ Obsidian: A volcanic glass formed from rapidly cooled lava, used for decorative
purposes and as a cutting tool in ancient civilizations.
● Characteristics of primary rocks:
➢ Formation: Primary rocks are formed through the solidification and crystallization
of molten magma or lava. They are the first rocks to be formed in the Earth's crust.
➢ Mineral Composition: Primary rocks are typically composed of minerals such as
quartz, feldspar, mica, and amphibole. The specific minerals present in a primary
rock depend on the chemical composition of the original magma.
➢ Texture: Primary rocks exhibit a variety of textures, ranging from fine-grained to
coarse-grained. The texture is determined by the rate of cooling of the magma. Rapid
cooling results in fine-grained rocks, while slow cooling leads to coarse-grained
rocks.
➢ Crystal Size: Primary rocks often contain large, well-formed crystals due to the slow
cooling process. These crystals are visible to the naked eye and can provide valuable
information about the rock's formation history.
➢ Interlocking Structure: Primary rocks typically have an interlocking crystalline
structure, where individual mineral grains are tightly interconnected. This structure
enhances the rock's strength and durability.
➢ Lack of Fossils: Primary rocks are formed from molten material and do not contain
any fossils or organic remains. They are generally devoid of any evidence of past life
forms.
➢ Intrusive and Extrusive Forms: Primary rocks can exist in two main forms -
intrusive and extrusive. Intrusive rocks cool and solidify beneath the Earth's
surface, resulting in larger crystal sizes. Extrusive rocks, on the other hand, cool
rapidly at or near the Earth's surface, leading to smaller crystal sizes.
➢ Geological Significance: Primary rocks provide valuable insights into the Earth's
geological processes and history. They can help in determining the origin of
mountain ranges, volcanic activity, and the evolution of the Earth's crust.
Conclusion:
Primary rocks are an essential component of the Earth's crust, and they play a vital role in
understanding the geological history of the planet. Primary rocks can provide valuable insights into
the formation of the Earth and the processes that have shaped the planet over time.

Q2. Discuss the meaning of color-coded weather warnings for cyclone prone areas given by
India Meteorological department. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

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Approach:
• Introduction: Briefly mention the Functions of India Meteorological Department (IMD).
• Body: Discuss the color-coded warnings issued by the IMD for cyclones.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a Futuristic Approach.

Introduction:
India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues color-coded weather warnings for cyclone-prone
areas in India to alert people about the potential danger from cyclones. These color codes represent
the intensity of the cyclone and the likely impact on people and property in the affected areas.
Body:
Color-coded warnings issued by the IMD for cyclones:

● Green (All is well): This is the least severe warning and indicates that there is no
immediate danger. It is issued when a cyclone is expected to form in the coming days but is
not yet close to the affected area.
● Yellow (Be Aware): This warning is issued when a cyclone is likely to hit the affected
area in the next few days. It indicates that people should be cautious and take necessary
precautions.
● Orange/ Amber (Be Prepared): This warning is issued when a cyclone is expected to hit
the affected area in the next 24 hours. It indicates that people should take all necessary
precautions and be prepared for the worst.
● Red (Take Action): This is the most severe warning and is issued when a cyclone is
expected to hit the affected area within the next few hours. It indicates that people should
take immediate action to protect themselves and their property.
Conclusion:
The IMD also provides detailed information on the potential impact of the cyclone, such as wind
speed, rainfall, storm surge, and flooding, along with the warning. The color-coded weather
warnings issued by the IMD for cyclone-prone areas in India are an important tool to alert people
about the potential danger from cyclones and to help them take necessary precautions to protect
themselves and their property.

Q3. Discuss the natural resource potentials of „Deccan trap‟. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Write about Deccan Trap in brief.
• Body: Write about the significant natural resources found in the Deccan Trap.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the importance of Deccan Trap.

Introduction:
The Deccan Trap is a large volcanic feature located in west-central India. It has several natural
resources that are economically valuable.

129
Body:
Natural resources found in the Deccan Trap:
● Minerals: The Deccan Traps have rich deposits of minerals such as iron, manganese,
copper, and gold. These minerals are essential raw materials for various industries,
including construction, manufacturing, and electronics.
● Coal: The Deccan Traps have significant reserves of coal, which is used for power
generation and various industries.
● Oil and natural gas: National Geophysical Research Institute [NGRI] has found the reserve
presence of oil and natural gas in the Deccan region that spreads over a vast area including
part of Karnataka, Telangana and Maharashtra.
● Geothermal Energy: It is the source of many springs. The springs in places like Sativli,
Mandangad, Aravali, Anjaneri, Rajapur and others, form a cluster of hot springs found in
these rock formations
● Hydroelectric power: The Godavari and Krishna rivers originate in the Western Ghats,
have the potential to generate hydroelectric power.
● Agricultural land: The fertile soil of the Deccan Trap is ideal for agriculture, and the
region is a major producer of crops such as cotton, sugarcane, and tobacco.
● Timber and medicinal plants: The forests of the Western Ghats are rich in timber and
medicinal plants, which can be used for various purposes, including traditional medicine,
construction, and furniture-making.
Conclusion:
Deccan Traps is a region with diverse natural resources, which can contribute to the economic
development of the region and the country. It is important to ensure that the exploitation of these
resources is done in a sustainable and responsible manner to minimize their environmental impact
and preserve them for future generations.

Q4. Examine the potential of wind energy in India and explain the reasons for their limited
spatial spread. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Discuss the potential of wind energy in India.
• Body: Discuss the limited spatial spread of wind energy in India.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a Futuristic Approach.

Introduction:
India is the world’s fourth largest country in terms of total wind installations after China, the USA
and Germany. India has a manufacturing base of about 10 GW per annum. The total installed
wind capacity in India is 40.8 GW as of June 30, 2022. States like Tamil Nadu, Gujarat,

130
Karnataka, and Maharashtra were the leading markets for wind, accounting for 72.3% of the
cumulative capacity.

Body:
Reasons for the limited spatial spread of wind energy:
1. Land availability: Wind turbines require large tracts of land. Acquiring land becomes
challenging and time-consuming due to issues related to land ownership, local regulations,
and environmental concerns.
2. Transmission infrastructure: Wind energy projects require adequate transmission
infrastructure to transport the electricity from the project site to the grid. The existing
transmission infrastructure in India is often inadequate, leading to grid congestion and
curtailment of wind power generation. E.g The nation is on a clear and achievable path
towards its renewable energy target of 275 gigawatts (GW) by 2026/27.
3. Financing: The high capital costs associated with wind energy projects often make it
challenging for developers to secure financing. Lack of a supportive regulatory framework,
including feed-in-tariffs and other incentives, can discourage private investment in wind
energy.E.g India aims to achieve 60 GW of wind power by 2022, necessitating a
doubling of the current deployment rate.
4. Political and regulatory challenges: The development of wind energy projects in India is
often hindered by political and regulatory challenges, including bureaucratic delays,
corruption, and a lack of clear policy directives.
5. Environmental issues : Killing of birds by turbines or fans of wind projects. E.g The Great
Indian Bustard, an endangered bird, has been affected by wind turbines in the Kutch
region.
Conclusion:
India to overcome these limitations and promote the development of wind energy projects.
Government has implemented a national wind energy policy to encourage private investment in
wind energy, and it has initiatives to improve the transmission infrastructure in the country. India
is continuously moving towards complying with its climate change commitments under the Paris
Agreement (COP21).

Q5. What are the forces that influence ocean currents? Describe their role in the fishing
industry of the world. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
 Introduction: Write about Ocean Current in brief.
 Body:
 Mention the forces that influence ocean currents.
 Write about the impact of Ocean Current on the Fishing Industry.
 Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the importance of ocean current with a
futuristic Approach.

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Introduction:
Ocean currents are the continuous, directed movements of seawater. They play an essential role in
the earth's climate and weather patterns, as well as in the distribution of marine life.

Body:
Forces influence ocean currents:
● Wind: Wind is one of the primary forces that drive ocean currents. The direction and
intensity of the wind determine the direction and speed of the currents.
● Temperature: Differences in water temperature between different regions of the ocean
create density gradients, which drive the movement of water.
● Salinity: Variations in salinity levels also create density gradients, which affect the
movement of water.
● Earth rotation: The Coriolis effect, which is the result of the earth's rotation, causes ocean
currents to move in a clockwise direction in the northern hemisphere and a counter
clockwise direction in the southern hemisphere.
● Atmospheric pressure: Differences in air pressure can affect ocean currents by changing
the direction and intensity of the wind.
The fishing industry is heavily dependent on ocean currents as they affect the distribution
and abundance of fish stocks.
● Fish industries develop at the junction or meeting point of cold and warm currents as
there is large concentration of phytoplanktons. Examples :- Near the coast of Japan.
● Fish tend to concentrate in areas with favorable environmental conditions, such as areas
with abundant food, oxygen, and suitable temperature and salinity levels. Ocean currents
play a significant role in the distribution of these favorable conditions, which affect the
spread and abundance of fish stocks.Like Gulf Stream.
● Ocean currents maintain ecological balance by transferring water to areas of less oceanic
current and having low fish population to maintain oxygen level and fish in the deficit area.
Like N. Equatorial Current.
● Fishing boats and fleets use ocean currents to track and locate fish, which helps to
increase their catch rates.like N. Atlantic Drift.
Conclusion:
Ocean currents are driven by various forces. Ocean currents play a critical role in Earth climate
and weather patterns, as well as in the distribution of marine life. It is essential to understand and
monitor ocean currents to ensure sustainable fishing practices and the long-term health of marine
ecosystems.

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Q6. Describing the distribution of rubber producing countries, indicate the major
environmental issues faced by them. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Write about the distribution of rubber producing countries in World.
• Body: Discuss the major environmental issues faced by rubber producing countries
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a Futuristic Approach.

Introduction:
Natural rubber is a polymer of isoprene, an organic compound. Thailand is the largest producer of
rubber in the world followed by Indonesia, Vietnam, Brazil, India and China. These nations are
located in tropical regions. Their climate is warm and humid which is ideal for growing rubber
trees.

Body:
Major environmental issues faced by these country:
● Deforestation: The rubber industry has led to the conversion of large areas of natural
forests into rubber plantations. This deforestation has caused the loss of biodiversity and
habitats of many species, contributing to the decline of their populations. E.g Brazil
● Soil degradation: The cultivation of rubber trees on a large scale has led to soil
degradation, causing a decline in soil fertility and productivity. The extensive use of
pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers has also polluted soil and water resources. E.g
Venezuela.
● Water pollution: The rubber industry uses significant amounts of water for irrigation,
which can lead to the depletion of water resources and the pollution of water bodies due to
the discharge of agrochemicals. E.g Peru
● Climate change: The rubber industry contributes to climate change by releasing
greenhouse gasses, primarily through deforestation, land-use change, and the use of fossil
fuels for transportation. E.g Brazil
● Labor and human rights issues: The rubber industry is associated with labor and human
rights violations, including exploitation of workers, child labor, and land grabbing from
indigenous communities.
Conclusion:
The rubber industry is an important economic sector for several countries, but it is associated with
significant environmental issues. WWF‟s goal is to have the majority of companies that produce
and use rubber commit to sustainably and ethically produced rubber.

Q7. Mention the significance of straits and isthmus in international trade.

[250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:

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Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with strait and isthmus.
• Body: Mention the significant roles of strait and isthmus in international trade:
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the importance of Straits and isthmuses.

Introduction:
Strait and isthmus are narrow passages of water and land, respectively, which have played a
crucial role in international trade for centuries. These natural features have helped connect various
regions of the world, facilitating the movement of goods and people. Like Malacca Strait, Gibraltar
strait.
Body:
Significance role of straits and isthmus in international trade:
● Reduced Distance: Straits and isthmuses reduce the distance between regions, making
transportation of goods and people more efficient. Like the Suez Canal on the isthmus of
Suez prevents the circumvention of Africa by ship for trade between Europe and Asia.
● Ports and Harbors: Straits and isthmuses often have natural ports and harbors, providing
easy access to the sea and facilitating trade. Like Malacca Strait
● Revolutionized Shipping: Straits and isthmuses have revolutionized the shipping
industry, allowing for more efficient transportation and reducing the time and cost of
shipping goods.
● Connectivity: Straits and isthmuses connect different regions of the world, providing
access to markets, resources, and people. like the Panama Canal on isthmus connects
Atlantic and Pacific oceans.
● Bridge Between Demand and Supply: Straits and isthmuses provide a bridge between the
demand and supply of commodities, facilitating trade and economic growth.
● Environmentally Friendly Shipping: Straits and isthmuses provide environmentally
friendly shipping options, reducing the carbon footprint of transportation and promoting
sustainable trade practices.
● Tourism and International Trade: Straits and isthmuses provide opportunities for
international trade in tourism services, promoting economic growth and development.
● Marine Products: Straits and isthmuses provide good grounds for fishing and aquaculture,
promoting international trade in marine products.
● Strategic Importance: Straits and isthmuses have strategic importance, providing security
from piracy and other threats, which is essential for international trade.

Conclusion:
Straits and isthmuses play an essential role in international trade, providing access to markets,
resources, and people. They have provided opportunities for tourism and international trade in
marine products and are essential for maintaining global economic growth and development.

2021
Q1. Briefly mention the alignment of major mountain ranges of the world and explain their
impact on local weather conditions , with examples. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Briefly define the mountain ranges and its Characteristics
• Body: Mention some mountain ranges of the word and its Climate Influence on local weather
and climate.
• Conclusion: Conclude your Answer with the importance of the mountain ranges.

Introduction:
The major mountain ranges of the world are aligned along tectonic plate boundaries, where the
movement of the Earth's crust has resulted in the formation of large mountainous regions. The
alignment of these mountain ranges can have a significant impact on local weather conditions,
influencing temperature, precipitation, and wind patterns.

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Body:
Mountain Ranges and its Climatic Influence.There are several important mountain ranges around
the world that have significant climate influences on local weather and climate. Here are some
examples:
The Himalayas:
● It is located in Asia, the highest mountain range in the world.
● The Himalayas act as a barrier, preventing the movement of cold air from the north. Protect
from harsh winters.
● Influence the monsoon winds that bring rainfall to India and other surrounding countries.
The Andes:
● It is located in South America, the longest mountain range in the world.
● The Andes act as a barrier, preventing the movement of moisture from the east and
influencing the precipitation patterns in the region.
● It acts as a rain shadow zone for Atacama deserts.
● The Andes have an impact on the temperature and rainfall patterns in neighboring
countries such as Argentina, Chile, and Peru.
The Rocky Mountains:
● It is located in North America.
● The Rockies influence the movement of air masses, causing them to rise and cool, leading to
increased precipitation on the western slopes and a rain shadow effect on the eastern
slopes.
● They capture the moisturized winds from the Pacific and cause large amount of rainfall in
its windward side,
● They also give a rain-shadow effect to the deserts in Southwest North America.
The Alps:
● The Alps, located in Europe.
● It acts as a barrier, preventing the movement of cold air from the north and influencing the
precipitation patterns in the region.
● The Alps have a significant impact on the temperature and rainfall patterns in neighboring
countries such as France, Switzerland, and Italy.
● Alps influence the presence and direction of local winds like Foehn, Mistral etc.
Conclusion:
Mountain ranges play a crucial role in shaping local weather, climate patterns, impacts on
temperature, precipitation, and wind patterns, which can in turn have significant impacts on
agriculture, water resources, and other aspects of local ecosystems and human societies.
Therefore, understanding the impacts of mountain ranges on local weather and climate is
important for managing natural resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

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Q2. Differentiate the causes of landslides in the Himalayan region and western Ghat. [150
Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Briefly define landslides and causes of landslides
• Body: Mention some of the causes which are associated with the particular region.
• Conclusion: Conclude your Answer with summary of the answer.

Introduction:
A landslide is a natural disaster that occurs when a mass of earth or rock suddenly moves downhill
under the influence of gravity. It is common in many regions around the world, including the
Himalayan region and the Western Ghats of India.

Body:
Causes of landslides in the Himalayan region:
● Geological causes: The Himalayan region is a seismically active zone due to the collision
of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This collision has resulted in the formation of
steep slopes and unstable rock formations, making the region highly susceptible to
landslides. E.g Assam. Earthquakes in the region also result in landslides.
● Climatic causes: The Himalayan region experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon
season, which can saturate the soil and rock formations, leading to landslides. The region is
also prone to flash floods, which can trigger landslides by eroding the soil and destabilizing
slopes. E.g The 2013 Uttarakhand landslides were triggered by heavy rainfall and
cloudbursts, causing flash floods and landslides that killed over 5,000 people and damaged
infrastructure in the region.
● Human causes: Deforestation, mining activities, and road construction can weaken the soil
and rock formations, making the slopes more vulnerable to landslides.E.g Mining in
Uttarakhand
Causes of landslides in the Western Ghats:
● Geographical causes: The Western Ghats are characterized by steep slopes and high
rainfall, which can lead to the erosion of the soil and rock formations, causing landslides.
● Climatic causes: The region experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which
can saturate the soil and rock formations, making them more prone to landslides.

136
 ● Human causes: Human activities such as deforestation, construction of buildings and
roads, and mining can weaken the soil and rock formations, making the slopes more
vulnerable to landslides.
● In August 2021, Kerala witnessed landslides in the hilly district of Idukki due to heavy
rainfall, which caused severe damage to property and claimed several lives.
● In July 2021, the Mahad region of Maharashtra was hit by landslides triggered by heavy
rainfall, leading to the loss of several lives and damaging infrastructure in the area.
Conclusion:
Landslides are caused by a combination of geological, climatic, and human factors. The causes of
landslides in the Himalayan region and the Western Ghats are different due to their distinct
geographical and geological features.

Q3. Discuss the multi- dimension implications of uneven distribution of mineral oil in the
world. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Explaining the uneven distribution of mineral oil.
• Body: Mention some Implication that the uneven distribution of mineral oil
• Conclusion: Conclude your Answer with significant multi-dimensional implications of
mineral oil.

Introduction:
The uneven distribution of mineral oil in the world. Slightly less than half of the world's proven
reserves are located in the Middle East [including Iran but not North Africa]. Following the Middle
East are Canada and the United States, Latin America, Africa, and the region made up of Russia,
Kazakhstan, and other countries that were once part of the Soviet Union.
Body:
The uneven distribution of mineral oil around the world has various implications that affect
different dimensions, including economic, political, environmental, and social aspects.
Economic Implications:
● Dependence on oil exports: Countries with significant oil reserves tend to depend heavily
on oil exports, which can make their economies vulnerable to price fluctuations, supply
disruptions, and changes in global demand.
● Resource curse: Countries that depend solely on oil exports may experience the "resource
curse" where the abundance of natural resources can lead to corruption, economic
mismanagement, and social instability.
● Unequal distribution of wealth: The unequal distribution of oil wealth can lead to income
inequality and exacerbate social tensions within countries.
Political Implications:
● Geopolitical tensions: The control and ownership of oil reserves can be a source of
geopolitical tensions and conflicts between countries. Countries with significant oil reserves
may use oil as a tool of foreign policy, by withholding exports or using oil revenues to
support political allies or proxies, leading to power imbalances and political instability.
● Influence on international relations: The unequal distribution of oil can create power
imbalances in international relations, with countries with significant reserves of oil having
greater bargaining power than those without.
Environmental Implications:
● Environmental degradation: The extraction, production, and use of mineral oil can lead to
environmental degradation, such as air and water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and
land degradation.
● Climate change: The continued use of fossil fuels due to an uneven distribution of mineral
oil can exacerbate climate change and environmental problems, leading to long-term
environmental consequences.
Social Implications:
● Health and safety hazards: Communities living in proximity to oil extraction and
production facilities may experience health and safety hazards due to exposure to pollution,
accidents, and other risks.

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 ● Social inequality: The unequal distribution of oil wealth can exacerbate income inequality
and lead to social unrest within countries.
Conclusion:
The uneven distribution of mineral oil in the world has significant multi-dimensional implications
for the global economy, geopolitics, and the environment. As the world continues to rely heavily on
mineral oil, it is important to consider the long-term implications of this reliance and work towards
finding sustainable alternatives.

Q4. Despite India being one of the countries of Gondwanaland, its mining industry
contributes much less to its Gross Domestic Products [GDP] in percentage. Discuss.
[150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Explaining contribution of the mining sector in India GDP.
• Body: Mention reasons behind this less percentage of contribution.
• Conclusion: Significance of mining Industry with government approach.

Introduction:
India is one of the countries of the ancient supercontinent, Gondwanaland, which is known for its
rich mineral deposits. Mining sector is an important contributor to India's economy, with its
contribution to India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ranging from 2.3% to 2.9% over the last
decade.
Body:
The mining sector in India has historically contributed a relatively low percentage to the country's
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) compared to other sectors.

Reasons for low contribution:

● Modernization and technological advancements: The mining industry in India is
predominantly carried out by small-scale miners who use outdated technology and
equipment, resulting in low productivity and efficiency. The lack of modernization and
technology also hinders the exploration and extraction of minerals in the country.E.g
Jharkhand.
● Labour laws framework: The mining industry in India is subject to various regulations,
including environmental and labor laws, which can make it difficult for companies to
operate efficiently.
● Complex regulatory framework: Obtaining permits and approvals for mining activities can
be a cumbersome and time-consuming process, leading to delays and reduced productivity.
● Slow pace of land acquisition: Land acquisition in India is a complex and time-consuming
process, and the mining industry often faces challenges in acquiring land for its activities.

138
 This can lead to delays in the implementation of mining projects, resulting in lower
productivity and output.
● Lack of investment: The mining sector requires significant investment in exploration,
technology, and infrastructure, which can be a deterrent for investors. The lack of
investment also affects the value addition in the sector, leading to the export of raw
minerals without processing them, which reduces their value and contribution to India's
economy.
Conclusion:
India's mining industry has significant potential to contribute to the country's economy given its
rich mineral deposits. The government needs to address these challenges and create a conducive
environment for investment in the sector, technology upgradation, skill development, and
sustainable mining practices can help enhance the mining sector's contribution to India's GDP and
overall economic growth.
Q5. How do the melting of the Arctic ice and glaciers of an Antarctic differently affect the
weather patterns and human activities on the Earth? Explain. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Briefly write the causes of melting of Arctic Sea and Glaciers of the Antarctic.
• Body: Discuss the melting of glaciers affects human activities and weather patterns on the
earth.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with measures to conserve glaciers.

Introduction:
Melting glaciers are a significant concern for the future of our planet, and human activities are the
primary cause of this phenomenon. The melting of Arctic and Antarctic glaciers is a severe global
issue that requires immediate action to mitigate its consequences.
Consequences of Melting Arctic Ice:
➢ Affecting Sea Level and Salinity: The melting of Arctic ice will affect sea levels, salinity
levels, and current and precipitation patterns, causing significant impacts on coastal
communities and small island nations.
➢ Coastal Communities are in Danger: The rising sea level is a threat to coastal cities and
small island nations, exacerbating coastal flooding and storm surge.
➢ Food Security at Risk: Unpredictable weather patterns caused by ice loss are already
causing significant damage to crops on which global food systems depend.
➢ Methane Store is at Risk: Permafrost in the Arctic region stores large amounts of
methane, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.
➢ Biodiversity Threatened: The melting of the Arctic ice puts the region’s vibrant biodiversity
under serious threat, especially in the mid-latitude.
Consequences of Melting Antarctic Glaciers:
➢ Rising Sea Level: Antarctic ice sheets are the largest contributors to global sea-level rise,
leading to coastal erosion.
➢ Climate Change: The warming of Antarctic Circumpolar Current can aggravate the effects
of global warming.
➢ Loss of Species: Many land and sea animals rely on glaciers as their natural habitats, and
as they disappear, so does the rich ecological life they shelter.
➢ Disrupting Ocean Currents: Melting of Antarctic glaciers will lead to slowing of Atlantic
Meridional Overturning Circulation, disrupting gulf stream and impacting west wind drift.
Conclusion:
The melting of glaciers has significant implications for the weather patterns and human activities
on the Earth. Climate change is the primary driver of glacier melting, and reducing greenhouse gas
emissions is critical to mitigating its impacts. It is essential to adopt sustainable practices to
reduce the impact of melting glaciers on the environment. We should adopt measures to conserve
water resources, protect biodiversity.

Q6. Mention the global Occurrence of volcanic eruptions in 2021 and their impact on the
regional environment. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

139
Approach:
• Introduction: Briefly defining What is Volcano and their occurrence at global level.
• Body: Some of the examples of volcanic eruptions.
 Discuss the Impact of volcanic eruption on the environment.
• Conclusion: Mention significant importance of volcanic eruption.

Introduction
Volcanic eruptions are a natural phenomenon that can have significant impacts on the
environment and society. In 2021, several volcanic eruptions occurred around the world, which
had varying impacts on the regional environment.

Body:

Mount Sinabung Volcano Indonesia

Klyuchevskoy volcano Russia far eastern Kamchatka peninsula

Fournaise volcano Reunion

Mount Etna Italy

Erebus Antarctica

Significant impacts of Volcanic eruptions:

● Air Quality: Volcanic eruptions release fine particles into the air, such as ash and aerosols,
which can lead to reduced visibility, crop damage, and other environmental impacts.
● Climate: The gasses and particles released by eruptions can block sunlight, causing cooling
of the Earth's surface. This can lead to changes in weather patterns, including changes in
rainfall and temperature. Volcanic eruptions contribute to global climate change by
releasing large amounts of greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere.
● Ecosystems: Eruptions can cause physical damage to ecosystems, such as burying plants
and animals under ash and lava flows. They can also cause toxic gasses to be released into
the environment, which can kill plants and animals. Volcanic eruptions can change the
soil chemistry, making it difficult for plants to grow and affecting aquatic life also.
● Human Health: The gasses and particles released by eruptions can cause respiratory
problems, such as asthma and bronchitis. They can also cause eye irritation and skin
irritation.
Conclusion:
The occurrence of volcanic eruptions in 2021 had varying impacts that can be both short-term and
long-term and can vary depending on the size and location of the eruption on the environment and
society, there is a need for continued monitoring and preparedness for volcanic eruptions. While
volcanic eruptions can have devastating impacts, they can also provide benefits, such as creating
new land and geothermal energy resources.

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Q7. What are the environmental implications of the reclamation of water bodies into urban
land use ? Explain with examples. [150 word, 10 Marks]
Answer:
Approach:
• Introduction: Explaining the process of land reclamation and its needs
• Body: Explain land reclamation implication on environment
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with environmental implications.
Introduction:
Land reclamation is the process of creating new land from areas that were previously underwater
or otherwise unusable. This process is usually undertaken for agricultural, industrial, or
residential development purposes.
Body:
● Loss of Biodiversity: Water bodies are home to a diverse range of aquatic and semi-aquatic
species. Reclaiming these areas for urban development can result in the loss of habitats
and the displacement of wildlife. This can have significant ecological impacts and affect the
food chain and the ecosystem. Like Dal Lake in Srinagar.
● Water Quality: Reclaimed water bodies can become polluted due to urban runoff, sewage,
and other sources of contamination. This can lead to a decline in water quality, which can
have negative impacts on aquatic life and human health. Like Cooum River and Sabarmati
River in India
● Flood Control: Water bodies serve an important role in flood control by absorbing excess
water during heavy rains. Reclamation can disrupt this function and increase the risk of
flooding in urban areas. Mumbai and Bangkok.
● Climate Change: Reclaiming water bodies can contribute to climate change by reducing the
amount of carbon stored in the ecosystem. Water bodies store large amounts of carbon, and
their destruction can lead to the release of this carbon into the atmosphere. Climate
change has also been implicated in the decline of amphibians in tropical forests.
● Environmental Hazards: Disasters are created by negligence towards the natural and
social contexts of infrastructure projects. Water reclamation for urban land use in the
coastal areas may increase the incidents of earthquakes etc.
Conclusion:
The reclamation of water bodies into urban land use can have significant environmental
implications, including the loss of biodiversity, water quality degradation, increased flood risk and
climate change.

Q8. How will the melting of Himalayas glaciers have a far-reaching impact on the water
resources of India? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your Answer with a brief about the Himalayas.
• Body: Discuss the melting of Himalayan glaciers could impact the water resources.
• Conclusion: Conclude your Answer with the importance of the Himalayas.

Introduction:
The Himalayas are one of the most significant mountain ranges in the world, with an estimated
height of over 8,849 meters. The melting of glaciers in the Himalayas is a cause of concern for
India's water resources. As the source of many major rivers, including the Ganges, Brahmaputra,
and Indus, the melting of Himalayan glaciers can have far-reaching impacts on water availability,
irrigation, hydropower generation, and socio-economic development in the region.
Body:
The melting of Himalayan glaciers could impact the water resources:
● Increase in River flows: The melting of glaciers can lead to an increase in the volume and
intensity of river flows, which can cause flash floods and landslides. E.g.- Ganga-
Brahmaputra-Meghna basin, Population over 700 million people (2022).
● Impact on Monsoon: The Himalayas exerts a significant influence on seasonal shifts in the
monsoon circulation and the distribution of rainfall in India.

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● According to IPCC projections, the melting of glaciers could indicate a likely increase in
summer rainfall by 4-12% in the near term and 4-25% in the long term. The south-west
monsoon accounts for 70% of the annual rainfall in India.
● Changing monsoon patterns, including increased severity and frequency of storms, could lead
to mountain hazards that may destroy critical infrastructure.
● Impact on agriculture: The melting of Himalayan glaciers could affect the availability of water
for irrigation, which could lead to a decline in crop yields and a significant impact on the
livelihoods of farmers.
● Impact on hydropower generation: Changes in the flow of water in rivers could affect the
efficiency and reliability of hydropower plants, which could lead to power shortages and
disruptions.
Conclusion:
The Himalayas are of immense importance to the people who rely on their resources for their
livelihood. The melting of the glaciers in this region has already begun to impact us severely. It is
important to take measures to mitigate the effects of climate change on the Himalayan glaciers and
ensure the sustainable use of these resources for future generations.

2020
Q1. Discuss the geophysical characteristic of the Circum- Pacific zone. [150 Words, 10
Marks]
Answer:
Approach:
• Introduction: Write briefly about the Circum- Pacific Zone.
• Body: Mention the salient geophysical characteristics of Circum- Pacific Zone.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a Futuristic Approach.
Introduction:
The Circum-Pacific Zone, also known as the Ring of Fire, is a region surrounding the Pacific
Ocean characterized by high seismic and volcanic activity.

Body:
Characteristics of Circum- Pacific Zone:
● Formation: The Circum-Pacific zone was formed by the subduction of oceanic plates
beneath the continents and islands surrounding the Pacific Ocean, resulting in volcanic
activity and seismic activity.
● Location: The Circum-Pacific zone is a nearly continuous chain of volcanoes that
surrounds the Pacific Ocean, passing along the west coast of North and South America,
Asia, and Oceania.
● Formation of Hotspot: The formation of hotspots in the Circum-Pacific zone is facilitated
by the rising of heat from areas deep within the Earth's mantle, which causes the melting of
rock in the upper portion of the mantle. This melted rock, called magma, often pushes
through the crust to form volcanoes.
● Volcanoes and earthquakes: The Circum-Pacific zone is home to more than 75% of Earth's
volcanoes, including famous ones like Mount Fuji in Japan and Krakatau in Indonesia. It

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 also experiences around 90% of the world's earthquakes, including some of the most
powerful ones in history, due to its location along tectonic plate boundaries.
Conclusion:
Geophysical characteristics of the Circum-Pacific Zone make it a region of significant geological
activity and hazards, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis. These
characteristics are essential for ensuring the safety and resilience of the communities living in this
region.

Q2. The interlinking of rivers can provide viable solutions to the multi-dimensional inter-
related problems of droughts, floods and interrupted navigation. Critically examine.
[150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Discuss the motive of interlinking of rivers.
• Body: Discuss pros and cons of interlinking rivers.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach.

Introduction:
The interlinking of rivers aims to connect the rivers and reduce the imbalance between water-
scarce and water-surplus regions. It generates hydropower, provides irrigation facilities, and
improves the navigability of rivers.
Body:
Pros of Interlinking of Rivers:
● Improved Water Management: Interlinking of rivers aims to improve the management of
water resources in India, reducing water scarcity and ensuring better utilization of water.
Example the Ken-Betwa river interlinking project in Madhya Pradesh aims to transfer
water from the Ken river basin to the Betwa river basin, providing irrigation facilities to
farmers in the water-scarce region.
● Hydroelectric Power: Interlinking of rivers will provide an opportunity to generate
hydropower, renewable and clean sources of energy. Example the Damanganga-Pinjal
river interlinking project in Maharashtra and Gujarat aims to generate 1,775 MW of
hydropower.

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 ● Agriculture: Interlinking of rivers aims to provide irrigation facilities to farmers, leading to
increased agricultural production and better crop yields. Example the Godavari-Cauvery
river interlinking project in southern India aims to provide irrigation facilities to over 35
million hectares of land.
● Navigation: Interlinking of rivers will improve the navigability of rivers and promote inland
waterways transportation. Example the proposed National Waterway 4 will connect the
Godavari and Krishna rivers, improving transportation and promoting trade.
Cons of Interlinking of Rivers:
● Environmental Concerns: Interlinking of rivers can have adverse environmental impacts,
like loss of biodiversity, loss of wetlands, and fragmentation of river ecosystems. Example
the proposed Ken-Betwa river interlinking project may result in the submergence of around
4,000 hectares of forest land and affect the Panna Tiger Reserve.
● Cost: Interlinking of rivers is a massive project and requires significant investment. It may
also lead to cost overruns, leading to economic inefficiencies. Example the estimated cost of
the Godavari-Cauvery river interlinking project is over Rs. 60,000 crore, and it may require
significant government subsidies and funding.
● Displacement: Interlinking of rivers may lead to the displacement of people, causing social
and economic upheaval. Example the proposed Damanganga-Pinjal river interlinking
project may displace around 11,000 people from their homes and livelihoods.
● Inter-state conflicts: Interlinking of rivers may lead to inter-state conflicts over water
allocation and usage. Example the proposed Ken-Betwa river interlinking project has faced
opposition from the Uttar Pradesh government, which is concerned about the allocation of
water from the project to Madhya Pradesh.
● Tension with Neighboring Countries: The proposed interlinking of rivers may also lead to
tension with neighboring countries, particularly lower riparian states. Example the
proposed interlinking of rivers may affect the water flow of the Brahmaputra river, which
may lead to tension with China and Bangladesh.
Conclusion:
Interlinking of rivers is a complex and contentious issue. It has the potential to provide improved
water management, hydroelectric power, agriculture, and navigation, its adverse environmental
impacts, displacement, cost overruns, and inter-state conflicts.
Q3. Account for the present location of iron and steel industries away from the raw
material, by giving examples. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with discussing major location factors for the iron and steel
industries.
• Body: Discuss the present location factor of iron and steel industries away from the source of
raw material.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with Suitable factor for the iron and steel industries.

Introduction:
Major location factors for iron and steel industries include proximity to raw materials such as iron
ore and coal, access to transportation, availability of energy sources, and proximity to markets for
finished products.
Body:
Factor that affect location the of iron and steel industries away from raw material:
● Access to better infrastructure: The present location of iron and steel industries is close
to ports, roads, and railways, which makes transportation of finished products more
convenient. E.g. The Vizag steel Plant, in Andhra Pradesh, is the first port – based plant.
● Skilled labor: The shift in location is also due to the availability of skilled labor in the new
areas, which has become an essential factor in the success of the industry. E.g. Steel
Authority of India Limited (SAIL) in Rourkela.
● Market Based Location: it is generally found in countries where coal and iron ore deposits
are rare. E.g. Japan is deficient in almost all raw materials that are to be imported from
other countries.
● Government policies: Governments often provide incentives to industries that set up in
certain areas, such as tax exemptions and subsidies, which can influence their location
decisions. E.g. Tata Iron and Steel Company (TISCO) in Jamshedpur.

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Conclusion:
The location factors for iron and steel industries have evolved over time, with advancements in
transportation, globalization, availability of skilled labor, infrastructure development, and
government policies all playing critical roles in determining the location of these industries away
from the source of raw material

Q4. India has immense potential for solar energy though there are regional variations in its
development. Elaborate. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Write data related to Solar Energy.
• Body: Elaborate regional variation in India.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with Government initiative and its impact.

Introduction:
Solar energy is a major component of India's renewable energy portfolio, owing to its vast potential
with a solar energy availability of 4000 trillion KWh per year. India has committed to generating
100 GW of solar power out of 175 GW of renewable energy by 2022 under the Intended Nationally
Determined Contributions (INDCs). Currently, India has an installed solar capacity of 43 GW.
Body:
Regional variations:
● Desert areas of Rajasthan and Kutch, which have barren lands and receive high insolation,
are considered ideal for solar energy generation.
● Himalayan and north-eastern regions have a lower potential for solar energy generation
due to their low insolation levels and challenging terrain.
● Coastal states like Kerala have moderate solar energy generation potential due to the long
monsoon season compared to heartland states.
● States closer to the tropics, which receive high solar insolation, are considered hotspots.

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 ●Rooftop solar panel program has tremendous potential in urban cities and can contribute
significantly to India's solar energy goals.
Challenges to solar energy program:
● Overproduction: Leading to very low tariff rates is one such challenge, which can
discourage investment in solar energy projects.
● Poor integration: Solar energy with the grid and the acquisition of land for solar parks are
other challenges.
● Production and technological barriers, particularly the dependence on lithium imports
from China for PV cells, are another challenge that needs to be addressed.
● Rooftop solar installations issue because of poor awareness and finances.
Conclusion:
The Indian government has taken several initiatives and policies to propel the solar energy market,
including, SARAL Index, PM KUSUM Floating solar plants in Gujarat, and ISA in Haryana. Solar
energy, with its low carbon footprint, can be a potential substitute for conventional energy sources
and can help India fulfill its commitments under the INDCs and Panchamrit proposals at COP 26.

Q5. The process of desertification does not have climate boundaries. Justify with examples.
[150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Define briefly desertification.
• Body: Discuss restricted by climate boundaries and some reason.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Desertification is the process of land degradation in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid regions
caused by a combination of natural and human factors. Environmental challenges threaten the
sustainability of agriculture and livelihoods in these regions.
Body:
Desertification is not restricted by climate boundaries due to some reason.
● Climate change: Changes in temperature, rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events
due to climate change can exacerbate desertification in arid and semi-arid regions. In these
regions, droughts, prolonged dry spells, and heat waves can lead to soil degradation, loss of
vegetation, and increased desertification. Like Latin America and the Caribbean are actually
about one-fourth desert and dry lands.
● Land use changes: Overgrazing, deforestation, and improper land use can lead to soil
erosion, loss of topsoil, and desertification. These activities result in removal of vegetation
cover, which exposes the soil to wind and water erosion, leading to soil degradation and loss
of fertility.
● Water management: Over-extraction of groundwater and poor irrigation practices can also
contribute to desertification. These activities can deplete the water resources and lead to
soil salinization, which can further reduce soil fertility and lead to desertification. Punjab
and Haryana.
● Human activities: Urbanization, industrialization, and population growth can increase
pressure on natural resources, leading to overuse and depletion of these resources, which
can contribute to desertification. 50% of the population is expected to live in urban areas by
2050.
Conclusion:
The factors contributing to desertification are complex and multifaceted and require a
comprehensive approach to address. Desertification is not limited to specific climatic zones and
threatens the sustainability of agriculture and livelihoods in affected regions.

Q6. Account for the huge flooding of the millions of cities in India including the smart ones
like Hyderabad and pune. Suggest lasting remedial measures. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:

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Approach:
• Introduction: Write any Data / Report
• Body: Discuss the responsible factor for frequent urban flooding and remedial measurement.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach and public awareness.

Introduction:
The major cause of frequent urban floods is unplanned urbanization. The State of Kerala, Madhya
Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat were the most severely affected. 2021 Maharashtra
flood, widespread flooding in Mahad and Chiplun on 22 July2021 caused by exceptionally heavy
rainfall. 2022 Assam floods, heavy flooding in Assam State in May 2022.
Body:
Various factors are responsible for frequent urban flooding:
● Meteorological factors: Heavy rainfall, cyclonic storms, and thunderstorms can cause
urban flooding. As urbanization has increased, the natural drainage system has been
disrupted, which makes it difficult for excess water to flow out Like Hyderabad and pune
● Hydrological factors: The occurrence of high tides impeding the drainage in coastal cities
and overbank flow channel networks can cause urban flooding.
● Anthropogenic factors:
➢ Unplanned urbanization: The key cause of urban flooding is unplanned urbanization.
Blocking of natural drainage pathways through construction activity and encroachment on
catchment areas, riverbeds, and lake beds can cause floods.
➢ Stormwater drainage systems: The old and ill-maintained drainage system is another
factor making cities in India vulnerable to flooding. Like Banglore flood causes.
➢ Encroachments: Habitations started growing into towns and cities alongside rivers and
watercourses. As a result, the capacity of the natural drains has decreased, resulting in
flooding.
➢ Climate change: Climate change due to various anthropogenic events has led to extreme
weather events that can cause urban flooding.
➢ Poor solid waste management: Improper waste management systems, clogging of
stormwater drains because of silting, accumulation of non-biodegradable wastes and
construction debris can cause floods.
Some of the remedial measures that can be taken to address urban flooding are:
● Improving drainage infrastructure: A proper drainage system is essential to prevent
flooding. The existing drainage systems in urban areas should be improved and new
drainage systems should be built in areas that are prone to flooding. E.g. Hyderabad's
Strategic Nala Development Plan improved drainage systems
● Constructing retention ponds and reservoirs: Retention ponds and reservoirs can be
built to collect excess water during heavy rainfall. This can help prevent flooding
downstream. E.g. Tansa Lake reservoir has been effective in reducing flooding
downstream.
● Implementing green infrastructure: Green infrastructure, such as green roofs, rain
gardens, and permeable pavement, can help absorb rainwater and reduce the amount of
water that flows into the drainage system. E.g. Kolkata's East Kolkata Wetlands, a
natural wastewater treatment system, has been effective in managing stormwater and
reducing flooding.
● Enforcing land-use regulations: Land-use regulations can be implemented to prevent
development in flood-prone areas. This can help reduce the risk of flooding.
● Building flood walls and embankments: Flood walls and embankments can be built to
prevent water from entering urban areas. This can be an effective short-term measure, but
it may not be a sustainable long-term solution.
● Developing early warning systems: People prepare for floods and reduce the risk of loss of
life and property damage.E.g Chennai's Flood Early Warning System.
Conclusion:
Urban flooding requires a multi-faceted approach that involves improving infrastructure,
implementing regulations, educating the public, and developing early warning systems. Taking
these measures, urban flooding can be reduced, and the risk of loss of life and property damage
can be minimized.

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Q7. Examine the Status of forest resources of India and its resultant impact on climate
change. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Write the findings of the Forest Survey report.
• Body: Status of forest resources in India.
➢ Significant impact on climate change.
➢ Vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
• Conclusion: Conclude your Answer with the importance of Forest.

Introduction:
According to the India State of Forest Report 2019, the Indian forest cover is around 24.56% of
its total geographical area. The country has lost around 9.38 million hectares of forest cover
between 1991 and 2019.
Body:
Forests are a critical natural resource in India, providing numerous ecological, economic, and
social benefits. They are home to diverse flora and fauna, regulate local weather patterns, and
provide livelihoods to millions of people.
Status of forest resources of India as follows.
● Mangrove cover:Mangroves are a vital ecosystem that plays a crucial role in coastal
protection, carbon sequestration, and supporting biodiversity. Mangroves cover an area of
around 4,975 square km. E.g. Sundarbans delta in the Bay of Bengal being the largest
mangrove forest in the world.
● Bamboo Cover: Bamboo is a fast-growing and renewable resource in India's economy and
environment. India has the largest area under bamboo cultivation in the world, covering
around 16.2 million hectares.
● Increase in forest and tree cover: According to the India State of Forest Report 2019,
Forest and tree cover increased by 13,000 square km. The government has implemented
various afforestation and reforestation initiatives. Like the Green India Mission and the
National Agroforestry Policy.
● Total carbon stock: The total carbon stock in Indian forests is around 7,124 million
tonnes. Deforestation and degradation of forests release carbon dioxide into the
atmosphere, contributing to global warming. Preserving and increasing forest cover is
crucial for mitigating climate change.
Significant impact on climate change:
Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
● They regulate local weather patterns and prevent soil erosion, desertification, and land
degradation.
● Deforestation and forest degradation release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere,
contributing to global warming. Preserving and increasing forest cover is crucial for
mitigating climate change.
● The management of forest resources is crucial for the sustainable development of India,
and efforts must be made to conserve and enhance their contribution to mitigating climate
change.
India is quite vulnerable to effect of climate change due to:
● India is vulnerable to the effects of climate change due to its vast coastline, large
population, and reliance on agriculture.
● The country is experiencing more frequent extreme weather events, such as droughts,
floods, and heat waves.
● Melting Himalayan glaciers threaten the water supply of millions of people, while rising sea
levels pose a threat to coastal areas.
● Climate change is expected to have significant impacts on India's economy, food security,
and public health.
Conclusion:
India's forest resources play a crucial role in mitigating climate change and provide various
economic, ecological, and social benefits. Deforestation and forest degradation pose a significant
threat to the environment and exacerbate the effects of climate change.

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 2019
Q1. How do ocean currents and water masses differ in their impact on marine life and
coastal environment? Give suitable examples.[250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Write your answer with a brief about the marine ecosystem.
• Body: Significance of Ocean currents in marine ecosystem and its impacts on coastal
environment.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the importance of marine ecosystems.

Introduction:
Ocean currents are continuous streams of water that flow in specific directions and paths. They
can be cold or warm currents and exist on the ocean's surface or deep within it.
Water masses refer to distinct bodies of water characterized by their temperature, salinity, and
density. Water masses, like the North Atlantic Deep Water found in the Norwegian Sea, differ from
ocean currents as they represent large volumes of water with consistent properties rather than
continuous flowing streams.
Body:
Significant of Ocean currents in marine ecosystem:
● Nutrient Distribution: Ocean currents can transport nutrients across vast distances,
influencing the distribution and abundance of phytoplankton bases of the marine food
chain. Like The Gulf Stream is a powerful ocean current that transports warm water
from the Gulf of Mexico to the North Atlantic.
● Migration Patterns: Marine species Like sea turtles, whales, and certain fish, follow ocean
currents during their annual migrations. E.g Leatherback sea turtles are known to follow
ocean currents during their annual migration from nesting beaches in the Caribbean
to feeding grounds in the North Atlantic.
● Biodiversity: The convergence of different ocean currents can create areas of high
biodiversity, as different species are brought together in one place. E.g The mixing of warm
and cold water currents creates a nutrient-rich environment that supports a diverse
range of marine life.
● Climate change: Changes in ocean currents due to climate change can have significant
impacts on marine life, altering water temperatures, and affecting the distribution and
survival of various species.
Significant impacts on coastal environment:
● Erosion: Strong ocean currents can cause erosion along the coast, wearing away beaches
and cliffs over time. E.g The strong ocean currents along the coast of California have
caused erosion in areas such as Big Sur
● Beach nourishment: Conversely, ocean currents can also bring in sediment from offshore
areas, providing natural beach nourishment.
● Pollution transport: Ocean currents can transport pollutants, such as oil spills or plastic
debris, to coastal areas, potentially harming marine life and human health.
● Water quality: Changes in ocean currents can also affect water quality in coastal areas,
altering salinity levels and nutrient concentrations.
● Tourism and recreation: Ocean currents can influence the quality of surfing and other
recreational activities, making them more or less favorable depending on conditions.
Impact of water mass on the climate and marine life :-
1. The movement of water masses has profound effects on the marine environment.
Downwelling, the sinking of surface waters to deeper depths, can provide a source of food
for deep-sea organisms. It can lead to oxygen depletion in deep waters, creating "dead
zones" where marine life struggles to survive. The downwelling of water can contribute to
oceanic carbon storage, playing a role in the global carbon cycle and climate change.
2. The upwelling of water, the rising of deep waters to the surface, has its own set of impacts.
Upwelling stimulates the growth of phytoplankton, microscopic marine plants, which form
the basis of the marine food chain. This increased availability of phytoplankton can support
a range of marine life, from small zooplankton to large fish and marine mammals. Upwelling

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 can influence the distribution and migration patterns of various marine species, creating
areas of high biodiversity and productivity.
Conclusion:
Ocean currents and water masses are both important components of the marine environment.
Ocean currents can influence the distribution of nutrients, migration patterns, and biodiversity of
marine species.

Q2. Can the strategy of regional resource -based manufacturing help in promoting
employment in India? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Define what regional based manufacturing is.
• Body: Explain impact and how can promote employment in India.
• Conclusion: Conclude your Answer with importance of regional based manufacturing.

Introduction:
The strategy of regional resource-based manufacturing has the potential to promote employment in
India. The country's diverse resource base, leveraging regional resources for manufacturing can
create job opportunities and promote economic growth.
Body:
Regional manufacturing industries in India and role in job creation:
● Textile industry: Gujarat is one of the leading states in textile manufacturing in India,
utilizing the cotton produced in the state. The industry provides direct and indirect
employment to millions of people, making it a significant contributor to the economy.
● Auto industry: Tamil Nadu is a hub for the automobile industry, with several leading
companies having their manufacturing plants in the state. The industry provides
employment to a large number of people, including engineers, designers, and factory
workers.
● Leather industry: Uttar Pradesh is one of the leading states in leather manufacturing,
providing employment opportunities to thousands of people. The industry includes several
sub-sectors such as tanning, footwear, and leather goods.
● Tea industry and Jute industry: West Bengal is known for its tea industry, providing
employment to a large number of people. The industry includes several sub-sectors such as
tea cultivation, processing, packaging, and marketing.
● Pharmaceutical industry: Maharashtra and Himachal Pradesh are hubs for the
pharmaceutical industry, with several leading companies having their manufacturing plants
in the state. The industry provides employment to a large number of people, including
scientists, engineers, and factory workers.
● Iron Based Industries: Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Tamil Nadu are the principal
Indian producers of iron ore. The Make in India Project has also helped in boosting the
employment opportunity in various states.
● Dairy Industry: This industry prominent in Gujarat provides employment to lakh of dairy
farmers in Gujarat. Example:- Amul.
Conclusion:
The strategy of regional resource-based manufacturing can be a viable approach to promote
employment in India. By utilizing local resources, investing in infrastructure, promoting MSMEs,
and developing specialized skills, regional industries can generate job opportunities and contribute
to overall economic growth and development.

Q3. Discuss the factor for localisation of agro -based food processing industries of North –
West India? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with the importance North-Western region of India in the
Agriculture sector.
• Body: Discuss the responsible factor for localisation of the food processing industry.

150
 • Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach and Government Scheme.

Introduction:
The North-Western region of India, comprising the states of Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and parts
of Uttar Pradesh, is rich in agricultural produce. The region's agro-based food processing industries
have significant economic potential and have been a source of employment for many.
Body:
Responsible factor for localisation of food processing industry:
● Abundance of raw materials: The North-Western region is known for its fertile land and
rich agricultural produce. This abundance of raw materials makes it an ideal location for
agro-based food processing industries. Like Haryana and Punjab.
● Availability of water: The region has several rivers and canal networks, which provide a
reliable source of water for agriculture and industrial use. Like Ganga
● Climatic conditions: The North-Western region has a semi-arid climate, which is ideal for
growing crops like wheat, rice, and sugarcane. This makes it an ideal location for agro-
based food processing industries that rely on these crops as raw materials.
● Transportation network: The region has a well-developed transportation network, which
includes roads, railways, and airports. This makes it easy to transport raw materials and
finished products to different parts of the country.
● Technology Adoption: Mechanised and semi-mechanised forms of technology have been
commonly adopted in the agricultural sector of this area. Like Green revolution
● Government policies: The government has implemented several policies and incentives to
encourage the growth of agro-based food processing industries in the region. These policies
include SAMPADA Yojana, PMKSY Schemes.
Conclusion:
The growth of agro-based food processing industries in the North-Western region of India has the
potential to provide employment opportunities and contribute to the country's economic
development. With the right policies and incentives, these industries can continue to grow and
flourish in the region.

Q4. How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic
development in India? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Write about the importance of mass transport.
• Body: Discuss the Reason for the mass transport system improves connectivity.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer's importance with a futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Efficient and affordable urban mass transport is essential for the rapid economic development of
India. With the country's population rapidly increasing and urbanization on the rise, a reliable and
accessible transport system is crucial for sustainable economic growth.
Body:
Reason for mass transport system improve connectivity due to:
● Improved connectivity: An efficient urban mass transport system can improve
connectivity within cities and between cities. This can lead to increased economic activity as
people and goods can move around more easily and quickly. Like Delhi to Mumbai.
● Reduced congestion: Congestion on the roads can lead to increased travel times and costs,
which can be a significant burden for businesses. A reliable and efficient urban mass
transport system can help reduce congestion and make travel more predictable and
affordable. Example :- Metro and Vande Bharat trains etc.
● Increased productivity: An efficient urban mass transport system can help people get to
work or school more quickly and easily. This can lead to increased productivity and
economic growth Like Maharashtra.
● Boost to tourism: A well-connected and efficient urban mass transport system can help
boost tourism by making it easier for visitors to get around and explore different parts of the
city. Like Himachal Paredash

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 ●Environmental benefits: An efficient urban mass transport system can help reduce air
pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging people to use public transport
instead of private vehicles. This can lead to significant health benefits and cost savings in
the long run Like Sikkim.
Conclusion:
A well-developed urban mass transport system can be a game-changer for India's economic growth.
India moves towards becoming a global economic superpower, investing in urban mass transport
must be a priority to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth.

Q5. Assess the impact of global warming on the coral life system with examples. [150
Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with the importance of coral reefs.
• Body: Discuss impact of global warming on the coral life system.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Coral reefs are some of the most diverse and important ecosystems on the planet, providing habitat
for a quarter of all marine life. They are under threat from the effects of global warming, including
rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and increased frequency and severity of storms.
Body:
Impact of global warming on the coral life system:
● Coral Bleaching: Rising ocean temperatures cause coral bleaching, where corals expel the
symbiotic algae living in their tissues. This leads to a loss of color and can eventually result
in the death of the coral if it is bleached for prolonged periods. E.g The Great Barrier Reef
in Australia is a well-known example of a coral site that has been impacted by coral
bleaching due to rising ocean temperatures.
● Ocean Acidification: Increased levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere lead to increased
absorption of CO2 by the ocean, resulting in a decrease in pH and increased acidity. This
can weaken coral skeletons, making them more vulnerable to damage from storms and
other environmental stressors.
● Coral Mortality: Coral bleaching and other impacts of global warming can lead to
widespread coral mortality, which can have significant impacts on the entire reef ecosystem.
E.g The Caribbean has experienced widespread coral mortality due to bleaching,
disease, and other effects of climate change.
● Loss of Biodiversity: Coral reefs are home to a diverse array of marine life, and the loss of
coral reefs due to global warming can lead to a loss of biodiversity in the surrounding area.
● Economic Impacts: Coral reefs are also important for local economies, providing food and
income for millions of people around the world. The loss of coral reefs due to global warming
can have significant economic impacts on these communities.
Wayforward:
● The loss of coral reefs due to global warming can lead to a loss of biodiversity and have
significant economic impacts on communities that rely on them for food and income.
● Urgent action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect coral reefs from
the impacts of global warming.
Conclusion:
Global warming impacts on coral life are significant and complex, threatening ecosystems and
millions who rely on them. Urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, better management,
and conservation efforts offer hope for the future of these vital ecosystems.

Q6. Discuss the causes of depletion of mangroves and explain their importance in
maintaining coastal ecology. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with the importance of mangroves with Data.

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 • Body: Discuss the reason for decline in mangroves and its Significance.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Mangroves are an important part of coastal ecosystems, providing a range of ecological, economic,
and cultural benefits. Despite their importance, mangroves have been subject to significant
depletion in recent decades, with estimates suggesting that up to 50% of mangrove forests have
been lost globally.

Body:
Reason for the decline in mangroves:
● Deforestation: Mangrove depletion is deforestation, which is driven by the conversion of
mangrove forests to agriculture, aquaculture, and urbanization. Like Sundarbans, a
mangrove forest in Bangladesh.
● Climate Change: Climate change has had a significant impact on mangroves, with rising
sea levels and changes in precipitation patterns leading to the loss of coastal habitats. E.g
Climate change has also led to rising sea levels, which is causing saltwater intrusion
and killing off the mangroves.
● Pollution: Pollution, particularly from oil spills, can have a devastating impact on
mangroves, destroying habitats and affecting the health of marine life. The emergence of
shrimp farms has caused about 35% of the overall loss of mangrove forests.
● Overfishing: Overfishing can disrupt the ecological balance of mangrove ecosystems,
reducing the abundance of fish and other marine life.
Significance of mangroves:
● Shoreline stabilization: Mangroves serve as a natural buffer against coastal erosion,
helping to stabilize shorelines and prevent the loss of land to the sea.
● Biodiversity conservation: Mangroves provide habitats for a diverse range of plant and
animal species, including many that are endangered or threatened. They serve nurseries for
juvenile fish and other marine life.

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 ● Carbon sequestration: Mangroves are highly effective at storing carbon, making them
important allies in the fight against climate change. They can store up to five times more
carbon per hectare than tropical forests.
● Coastal protection: Mangroves can help to mitigate the impact of storms and natural
disasters, reducing the risk of damage to coastal communities.
● Economic benefits: Mangroves provide a range of economic benefits to local communities,
including timber and non-timber forest products, as well as fisheries and tourism.
Conclusion:
Mangroves are vital, but threatened ecosystems. Depletion caused by human activities has
significant implications for coastal ecology. Conservation, sustainable management practices, and
restoration are needed to ensure their long-term health and resilience.
Q7. What is water stress? How and why does it differ regionally in India? [250 Words, 15
Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with the importance of Water Stress with Data.
• Body: Discuss the Regional differences in water stress.
➢ Water Stress level varies from region to region.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a significant challenge and futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Water stress is a situation where the demand for water exceeds the available supply in a particular
region. It is a growing concern globally, particularly in regions where population growth,
urbanization, and climate change are putting increasing pressure on water resources. India is
among 17 countries facing extreme water stress.
Body:

Regional differences in water stress:

● Geographic location: The Himalayas and the Northeast, have abundant water resources
due to high levels of rainfall. Rajasthan and Gujarat, are naturally water-scarce.
● Population density: Areas with high population densities, the Gangetic plain and the
Deccan plateau, have greater demands for water, leading to higher levels of water stress. UP
and Bihar.
● Agricultural practices: Agriculture is the largest user of water in India, and regions with
intensive irrigation practices, such as the Indus and Ganges river basins, face significant
water stress.
● Industrialization: Rapid industrialization has led to increased demands for water in many
regions of India, particularly in areas with heavy manufacturing and mining activity. Like
Delhi and Maharashtra.
Water Stress level varies from region to region it is primary due to:
● Depleting Ground water: the main cause of water stress is the low groundwater levels. Due
to excessive groundwater pumping, the aquifers are not able to recharge, leading to a
decline in water availability. This has led to water scarcity for both domestic and
agricultural purposes.

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 ● Infrastructure: water stress is due to the lack of a proper canal network to transport water
from the sources to the city. The city depends on a few small streams for its water supply,
and in times of drought, the water availability becomes severely limited. Climate change has
also played a role in decreasing the water availability in the region.
● Varying Amount of Rainfall: Water stress is caused by a combination of factors, including
low rainfall, high evaporation rates, and the salinity of water in the region. The groundwater
in the city is heavily polluted, and the city is heavily dependent on water supply from other
regions, which are themselves facing water scarcity.
Conclusion:
Water stress is a significant challenge in India that differs regionally due to some factors. Water
stress will require a coordinated effort from governments, communities, and individuals to improve
water management practices, reduce water consumption, and ensure equitable distribution of
water resources. It is essential to implement sustainable measures to conserve water resources for
future generations.

Q8. How can the mountain ecosystem be restored from the negative impact of development
initiatives and tourism? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with a brief about the mountain ecosystem.
• Body: Discuss the major threats to mountainous ecosystems and its solution.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach and public awareness.

Introduction:
The mountain ecosystem is a crucial and sensitive part of the environment, delicate and complex,
and they are affected by human activities such as development initiatives and tourism. Some
activities can cause a wide range of negative impacts on the ecosystem, habitat destruction, soil
erosion, pollution, and the displacement of native species.
Body:
Major threats to mountainous ecosystems include:
● Climate change: Rising temperatures can cause glacial melting, altered precipitation
patterns, and changes in the timing of seasonal events.
E.g. Loss of the West Antarctic ice sheet, sea level rise would approach 10.5 meters
[34 feet].
● Deforestation: Deforestation can result in soil erosion, habitat loss, and changes in water
availability. Human–animal conflicts are common. E.g The Amazon rainforest has
suffered from deforestation, causing soil erosion, habitat loss, and human-animal
conflicts.
● Mining: Mining activities can cause habitat destruction, soil erosion, and water pollution.
E.g. Landslide in Joshimath in India.
● Infrastructure development: The construction of dams, roads, and other infrastructure
can result in habitat loss, soil erosion, and fragmentation of ecosystems.
● Agricultural practices: Unsustainable agricultural practices can lead to soil erosion,
habitat loss, and water pollution. E.g Punjab and Haryana Region in India.
● Tourism: Tourism activities can cause habitat destruction, pollution, and the displacement
of native species.
Some of the measures that can be taken:
● Conduct Environmental Impact Assessments [EIA] before starting any development or
tourism activity.
● Limit the number of tourists to reduce pressure on the ecosystem.
● Encourage sustainable tourism practices that minimize waste, conserve energy, and
reduce water consumption.
● Restore degraded areas through planting native species, reducing soil erosion, and
reducing pollution.
● Protect wildlife by reducing human-wildlife conflicts, protecting endangered species, and
preserving their natural habitats.
● Promote sustainable land use practices such as organic farming, reducing deforestation,
and reducing soil erosion.

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 ● Educate the public about the importance of the mountain ecosystem and the negative
impacts of development and tourism.
Conclusion:
Restoring the mountain ecosystem from the negative impact of development initiatives and tourism
requires a collaborative effort to protect the ecosystem's delicate balance. We can restore and
preserve the mountain ecosystem. It is essential to prioritize sustainable development practices
and promote responsible tourism to ensure that the ecosystem is protected for future generations.

2018
Q1. Define mantle plume and explain its role in plate tectonics. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: What is a mental plume?
• Body: Discuss the role of mental plume in plate tectonics.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the importance of mental plume.

Introduction:
Mantle plumes are columns of hot magma that rise from the Earth's mantle to the surface. They
are associated with volcanic activity and have a significant impact on plate tectonics, the scientific
theory that describes the movement of the Earth's lithosphere.
Body:

Role of mental plume in plate tectonics:

● Mantle plumes rise through the solid mantle before spreading out laterally in the upper
asthenosphere. The heat from the plume increases the temperature of the lower lithosphere,
the lithosphere swells and shears.
● This causes the lithospheric plate to move above the plume, creating a string of volcanoes.
● The material and energy from Earth's interior are exchanged with the surface crust through
two modes: The predominant steady-state plate tectonic regime and the punctuated
mantle overturn regime driven by plume convection.
● Regime is periodically significant in mountain building and continental breakup.
● Mantle plumes are also responsible for the formation of time-progressive volcanic chains
and flood basalts, such as the Hawaiian Island and Emperor Seamount chain and the
Deccan traps in India.
● The eruption of continental flood basalts is often associated with continental rifting and
breakup, leading to the hypothesis that mantle plumes contribute to the formation of ocean
basins.
Conclusion:
Mantle plumes play a crucial role in plate tectonics, contributing to the geological processes that
shape our planet. Their impact on plate movement and continental breakup is still being studied,
but it is clear that they are a significant factor in the Earth's geology. we can gain a deeper
understanding of the complex processes that shape the world we live in.

156
Q2. Why is the Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System [IRNSS] needed? How does it
help in navigation? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Briefly explain about IRNSS.
• Body: Significant and helpful in navigation by IRNSS.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the importance of IRNSS.

Introduction:
The Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System [IRNSS] is also known as NavIC, developed to
provide India with its own independent navigation system that is not dependent on foreign systems
like GPS. It is a sophisticated satellite-based navigation system designed to provide accurate and
reliable location information for users on the ground.
Body:
Need of the IRNSS:
● To provide India with its own independent navigation system that is not dependent on
foreign systems like GPS.
● To provide accurate and reliable navigation services for civilian and military applications
in India and the surrounding regions.
● To provide more precise location and timing information for various applications,
including transportation, agriculture, disaster management, and national security.
● To enhance the security and sovereignty of India by providing an encrypted navigation
signal for use by the military.
● To support the development of indigenous technology and expertise in the field of space
technology.
● To contribute to the overall progress and development of India's space program.
● To increase India's self-reliance in the area of space technology.
● To provide a platform for scientific and technological research and development.
Role of IRNSS in Navigation:
● IRNSS provides accurate and reliable location information for users on the ground, which
is necessary for navigation in various applications.
● It provides real-time information on location, velocity, and time, which can be used to
calculate the best route to a destination.
● IRNSS is designed to provide navigation services with an accuracy of up to 20 meters, which
is much better than the accuracy provided by GPS.
● It can provide navigation services in areas where GPS signals are weak or unavailable. The
system is highly reliable, and its signal is not subject to jamming or interference.
● IRNSS provides an encrypted navigation signal for use by the military, which is not
available on GPS.
● The system is cost-effective, and its use is not subject to any licensing fees or restrictions.
● It can help in better transportation, logistics and promote ease of doing in business.
● It has wide-ranging applications in transportation, agriculture, disaster management, and
national security.
● In April 2019, the government made IRNSS- based vehicle trackers mandatory for all
commercial vehicles in the country in accordance with the Nirbhaya case verdict.
Conclusion:
IRNSS is a critical technological development for India as it enhances the efficiency, safety, and
security of navigation-based applications. By providing accurate and reliable location information,
IRNSS contributes significantly to the progress and development of India's space program, and its
use has wide-ranging applications in transportation, agriculture, disaster management, and
national security.

157
Q3. Why is India taking keen interest in the Arctic region? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Write about the Arctic region.
• Body: Discuss India' s interest in the Arctic region.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with Importance of the Arctic region.

Introduction:
India's interest in the Arctic region is motivated by economic, strategic, scientific, and diplomatic
factors. The region's resource exploration potential, new trade routes, climate change impact,
scientific research opportunities, and diplomatic engagement make it an attractive area for India.

Body:
India‟s interest in the Arctic region:
● Resource Exploration: The Arctic is believed to hold abundant reserves of oil, gas,
minerals, and rare earth elements, and India is interested in exploring these resources to
meet its growing energy demands and reduce its dependence on foreign imports.
● Trade Routes: The melting of Arctic ice has opened up new trade routes, which are shorter
and more cost-effective than traditional routes. India sees the Arctic as a new trade corridor
that can help reduce the cost of transportation and increase trade between Asia, Europe,
and North America.
● Climate Change: The melting of Arctic ice is a major concern for India, which is vulnerable
to the impacts of climate change, such as rising sea levels and changes in monsoon
patterns.
● Scientific Research: India is interested in conducting scientific research in the Arctic
region to better understand its impact on global climate and to study the unique flora and
fauna of the region.
● Diplomacy: India is keen to play a more active role in global diplomacy, and its interest in
the Arctic is seen as a way to engage with other countries in the region and expand its
international presence.
Conclusion:
India's interest in the Arctic region is driven by a combination of economic, strategic, scientific, and
diplomatic factors. The country is taking a proactive approach to securing a foothold in the region,
and it will be interesting to see how its efforts unfold in the years to come.

Q4. “The ideal solution to depleting ground water resources in India is a water harvesting
system. “How can it be made effective in urban areas? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:

158
Approach:
• Introduction: Brief about status of water resources in India.
• Body: Discuss water harvesting system and its significance with Example.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach.

Introduction:
By 2030, the country’s water demand is projected to be twice the available supply, implying severe
water scarcity for hundreds of millions and an eventual loss of around 6% of the country’s GDP.
About 75 % of households do not have drinking water at home, 84% rural households do not have
piped water access, and 70% of India’s water is contaminated, with the country currently ranked
120 among 122 in the water quality Index.
Body:
Solutions for water harvesting in India:-
● Incentivize and Promote Water Harvesting: The government can incentivize and promote
water harvesting by providing tax rebates, subsidies, and other incentives to individuals
and organizations that implement water harvesting systems. This would encourage more
people to adopt this practice.
● E.g In 2015, the Uttar Pradesh government announced a 50% subsidy on the cost of
installing water harvesting systems in households in urban areas.
● Create Awareness: Many people are not aware of the benefits of water harvesting, which
hampers its adoption. The government can create awareness through campaigns and
advertisements on various media platforms.
E.g The Union government launched the 'Jal Shakti Abhiyan' campaign in 2019 to
raise awareness about the importance of water conservation and encourage the
adoption of water harvesting.
● Mandate Water Harvesting: Making water harvesting mandatory in urban areas would
ensure that more people adopt this practice. The government can make it a requirement for
new construction projects to have water harvesting systems installed.
E.g In 2001, the Karnataka government made it mandatory for all buildings with an
area of 1200 sq. ft or more to have water harvesting systems installed.
● Use Innovative Techniques: Innovative water harvesting techniques such as rooftop
rainwater harvesting, vertical gardens, and permeable pavements can be implemented in
urban areas to make the most of limited space. E.g In Mumbai, the Bombay High Court
made it mandatory for all new constructions to have a rainwater harvesting system
and a green cover on at least 10% of the plot area.
Conclusion:
Effective implementation of water harvesting systems in urban areas can go a long way in
conserving water and mitigating the depletion of groundwater resources. These measures can be
implemented by governments, local authorities, and individuals to ensure a sustainable future for
all.

Q.5 Defining Blue Revolution. Explain the problem and strategies for pisciculture
development in India. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Write about the Blue Revolution.
• Body: Discuss the Problems of pisciculture development and its strategies in India.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach.

Introduction:
The "Blue Revolution" refers to the sustainable and innovative development of the world's fisheries
and aquaculture sectors to meet the growing demand for seafood while protecting the health of
marine ecosystems and improving the livelihoods of fishing communities. The sector has enormous
potential to contribute to the country's food security and rural livelihoods.

159
Body:
Problems of pisciculture development in India:
● Lack of infrastructure: Primary challenges facing the development of pisciculture in India
is the lack of adequate infrastructure, including fish hatcheries, fish seed farms, fish
processing facilities, and transportation networks. This lack of infrastructure makes it
difficult for fish farmers to produce and sell their products.
● Limited access to credit: Fish farmers in India often face difficulty in accessing credit,
which limits their ability to invest in infrastructure and expand their operations. This lack
of access to credit is a major impediment to the growth of the pisciculture sector.
● Poor quality fish seed: The quality of fish seed in India is often poor, with high mortality
rates and low growth rates. This is due to a lack of proper breeding and selection
techniques, which results in low-quality fish seed.
● Water scarcity: Water scarcity is a major challenge for the pisciculture sector in India, as
fish require large quantities of water for their growth and survival. This problem is
compounded by the fact that many of India's rivers are heavily polluted, making it difficult
to maintain clean water for fish farming.
● Lack of skilled manpower: Another problem facing the development of pisciculture in India
is the shortage of skilled manpower, including aquaculture technicians, fish health
professionals, and fish processing workers. This shortage of skilled manpower makes it
difficult for fish farmers to produce high-quality fish products and compete in the global
market.
● Low profitability: Despite the potential benefits of pisciculture, many fish farmers in India
struggle to make a profit. This is due to a variety of factors, including high production costs,
low market prices, and limited market access.
● Environmental issues related to fishing, a recent WTO agreement has been proposed on
illegal and unregulated fishing.
Strategies of pisciculture development in India:
● To properly plan freshwater and brackish water aquaculture, it is necessary to strengthen
the current database, which is not sufficient for empirical policy analysis. By taking these
steps, we can ensure the sustainable growth of the brackish aquaculture sector, benefiting
both the economy and the environment.
In Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, India, a study found that the lack of reliable data
on water availability and quality hindered the development of brackish water
aquaculture. Improving data collection and analysis can lead to sustainable growth of
the industry and benefit local communities.
● Leveraging the latest information technology is also critical to improving planning and
monitoring of brackish aquaculture. Important to encourage this activity only in areas
suitable for its purpose, which can be identified through remote sensing and GIS
techniques to minimize ecological pollution and social conflicts.
● Improvements in breeding technology, disease control, feeds and nutrition, and low-
impact production systems must be made to complement traditional knowledge and
enhance efficiency. Both public and private policies should be formulated to provide
financial support, enhance skills, and educate farmers about sustainable practices.
● Financial institutions should strengthen the flow of credit to the aquaculture sector,
taking into consideration the ecology and regulatory framework governing this sector.
● The growth of the aquaculture sector, specifically brackish aquaculture, is largely driven by
exports. However, in order to maintain this growth, it is essential to address the issues
surrounding the ecological and economic sustainability of brackish aquaculture, while also
identifying its comparative advantage through multidisciplinary and regional studies.
● Legal and institutional measures must be developed to regulate aquaculture activity in
ecologically fragile zones, and these measures must be implemented and enforced by local
authorities. Enforcing quarantine measures on fish seed and feed is also essential to ensure
that imported material is not infected or unwanted.
Conclusion:
India possesses a significant portion of the world's fish diversity and stands as the second-largest
fish producer globally. In the current climate of food insecurity, the prospects of pisciculture are
immense in providing sustenance for the growing population. A sustainable and ecologically
balanced approach towards aquaculture can cater to both the environmental and socioeconomic
needs of the society.

160
Q6. What is the significance of Industrial Corridors in India? Identifying Industrial
Corridors, explain their main characteristics. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Write the importance of Industrial corridors.
• Body: Discuss the Significance and Characteristics of Industrial Corridors.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Industrial corridors are critical to India's economic development as they offer a platform for
industrial growth by providing state-of-the-art infrastructure and logistics facilities. They can
stimulate economic growth, attract investment, create employment, and improve the overall
standard of living. The identification of specific corridors for development is a step towards
increasing industrial competitiveness and creating employment opportunities.
Body:
Significance of Industrial Corridors in India:
● Promote industrialization: Industrial corridors provide an opportunity for the government
to develop new industrial clusters, which will promote industrialization and economic
growth.
● Infrastructure development: These corridors also focus on the development of modern
infrastructure facilities, such as power, water supply, and transportation, which are
essential for the growth of industries.

● Job creation: The development of industrial corridors will lead to the creation of new jobs,
both directly and indirectly, thereby reducing unemployment in the country.
● Foreign investment: The development of industrial corridors will also attract foreign
investment, which will help in the transfer of technology and knowledge, leading to the
growth of industries.
● Regional development: The development of these corridors will also promote the overall
development of the region, leading to improved living standards for the people.
Characteristics of some of the industrial corridors in India:
● Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC):
➢ Covers an overall length of 1483 km between Delhi and Mumbai

161
 ➢ Aims to create futuristic industrial cities by leveraging the high-speed, high-capacity
connectivity provided by the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor.
➢ The project is being funded by the Government of India, Japanese loans, investments
by Japanese firms, and through Japan depository receipts issued by Indian companies.
➢ The estimated cost of the project is USD 100 billion
● Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor (CBIC):
➢ Covers Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.
➢ Aims to create a high-tech industrial zone in southern India
➢ Being funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
● Bengaluru-Mumbai Economic Corridor (BMEC):
➢ Covers Maharashtra and Karnataka
➢ Aims to create a knowledge-based economy by promoting research and innovation in
these states
➢ Being developed with the help of Britain (UK)
● Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor (AKIC):
➢ Covers Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West
Bengal.
➢ Aims to provide a boost to industrial development in the eastern part of India
➢ The Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor is the backbone of this economic corridor
● East Coast Economic Corridor (ECEC):
➢ Covers West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu
➢ Aims to enhance industrial competitiveness by focusing on development of ports,
logistics, and energy infrastructure along the east coast of India
● North East Myanmar Industrial Corridor:
➢ The North East Myanmar Industrial Corridor is a project that has been launched as
part of the Tokyo Declaration for the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global
Partnership.
➢ This initiative aims to boost connectivity and development in the Northeast region,
ultimately driving economic growth and increasing prosperity in the area.
Conclusion:
The development of industrial corridors in India is crucial for the country's sustained economic
growth and overall development. They have the potential to transform the economy by creating new
industries, promoting exports, and increasing employment opportunities. The government's focus
on building industrial corridors is a positive step towards achieving these goals.

Q7. Mention core strategies for the transformation of aspirational districts in India and
explain the nature of convergence, collaboration and competition for its success. [250
Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:
Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with the Aspirational Districts Programme.
• Body: Discuss the strategies for the transformation nature of convergence, collaboration and
competition.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with Importance of the Arctic region.
Introduction:
The Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) was launched by the Government of India in 2018 in
117 districts with the aim of transforming the most backward districts of the country. The
programme focuses on five core areas, including health and nutrition, education, agriculture and
water resources, financial inclusion, and basic infrastructure.
Body:
Strategies for the transformation of aspirational districts in India:
● Convergence of central and state schemes: The programme seeks to ensure that all
central and state schemes converge at the district level to maximize their impact.
● Collaborative effort: The programme encourages collaboration among various
stakeholders, including district officials, citizens, and non-governmental organizations.
● Citizen-centric approach: The programme aims to improve the quality of life of citizens in
the aspirational districts through a people-centric approach.

162
 ● Innovation: The programme seeks to encourage innovation and the use of technology to
drive development in the aspirational districts.
● Monitoring and feedback: The programme emphasizes the importance of monitoring and
feedback mechanisms to ensure the effective implementation of schemes and programmes
in the aspirational districts.
Nature of Convergence, Collaboration and Competition:
● NITI Aayog is the anchor for the programme, while individual ministries and district
administrations have taken up responsibility to drive progress in the aspirational districts.
● A central Prabhari officer of the rank of Additional Secretary/Joint Secretary has been
nominated for each district to oversee the implementation of the programme.
● States have formed a committee under the Chief Secretary to ensure effective
implementation of the programme. Nodal officers and State level Prabhari officers have also
been appointed.
● An Empowered Committee led by the CEO of NITI Aayog has been established to ensure
convergence of schemes and address specific issues identified by the Prabhari officers.
● NITI Aayog releases delta ranking for the districts in partnership, which serves to create a
sense of competition among dynamic teams working towards the development of the
aspirational districts.
Conclusion:
The transformation of aspirational districts in India requires a multi-pronged approach that
involves convergence, collaboration, and competition among various stakeholders. The success of
the programme depends on the collective efforts of the government, civil society organizations,
private sector, and local communities. Through effective implementation of the core strategies, the
ADP has the potential to drive inclusive and sustainable development in the most disadvantaged
areas of the country.

Q8. What are the consequences of spreading „Dead Zone‟ on marine ecosystems? [150
Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:
Approach:
• Introduction: Define the Dead Zone.
• Body: Discuss the Significance of dead zones on marine ecosystems.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a significant threat to the marine ecosystem with a
futuristic approach.
Introduction:
A Dead Zone is an area of the ocean with low or no oxygen levels, where marine life cannot survive.
The main cause of Dead Zones is eutrophication, the process by which excessive nutrients, such as
nitrogen and phosphorus, enter coastal waters from agricultural and industrial sources, causing
an overgrowth of algae. When these algae die, they sink to the bottom and decompose, depleting
the oxygen in the water.
Body:
Consequences of Dead Zones on marine ecosystems:
● Loss of Marine Life: Dead Zones can cause significant losses of marine life, as oxygen-
deprived fish, crabs, and other organisms suffocate and die. These organisms are crucial to
the food chain, and their loss can have cascading effects throughout the ecosystem.
● Changes in Food Web: Dead Zones can cause changes in the marine food web, as the loss
of oxygen-loving organisms allows other, more resilient species to thrive. This can alter the
balance of the ecosystem, leading to unpredictable and potentially damaging changes.
● Economic Impacts: Dead Zones can have significant economic impacts, as they can lead to
reduced fish catches and lost revenue for fishing communities. They can also harm the
tourism industry, as people are less likely to visit areas with poor water quality.
● Climate Change: Dead Zones can contribute to climate change, as the decomposition of
organic matter in these areas releases large amounts of carbon dioxide and other
greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere.
● Human Health: Dead Zones can also pose a risk to human health, as they can lead to the
proliferation of harmful bacteria and toxins, which can contaminate seafood and pose a risk
to human health.

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Some examples of dead zones:

➢ Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone

➢ Baltic Sea Dead Zone
➢ Chesapeake Bay Dead Zone
➢ Black Sea Dead Zone
➢ Lake Erie Dead Zone
Conclusion:
The spreading of 'Dead Zones' poses a significant threat to the marine ecosystem. It can lead to a
decline in fish populations, an increase in harmful algal blooms, and a shift in the species
composition. We can take measures to reduce nutrient pollution and protect our oceans from these
growing environmental issues.

2017
Q1. How does the Juno Mission of NASA help to understand the origin and evolution of
earth? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with Juno Mission.
• Body: Discuss the Juno Mission contributed to our understanding of Earth.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the importance of Juno Mission.

Introduction:
The Juno Mission launched by NASA in 2011, aims to study Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar
system. This mission also holds immense significance in understanding the origin and evolution of
Earth, as Jupiter is believed to have formed around the same time as the Sun and the other
planets.
Body:
Juno Mission contributed to our understanding of Earth:
● Formation of the solar system: Studying Jupiter's composition, structure, and magnetic
field, we can learn more about the conditions that existed during the solar system's
formation. This can help to better understand how Earth and the other planets in our solar
system formed.
● Magnetic field: Jupiter's magnetic field is incredibly strong and complex, and studying it
can help us to better understand the Earth's own magnetic field. The Earth's magnetic field
is crucial for protecting the planet from harmful solar radiation, and understanding its
behavior is important for predicting and mitigating space weather events.
● Water content of Jupiter: One of the key objectives of the Juno Mission is to determine
how much water is present in Jupiter's atmosphere. This is important because water is a
key ingredient for life as we know it, and understanding its distribution in our solar system
can help us to better understand the likelihood of finding life on other planets.
● Composition: The heavy elements that are no longer present on Earth, but were present
during the early formation of the solar system.

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 ● Atmosphere: Jupiter's distance from the Sun prevented solar winds from blowing away its
hydrogen and helium. Consequently, Jupiter's atmosphere evolved through a mechanism
distinct from Earth's atmosphere.
Conclusion:
The Juno Mission has provided significant insights into Jupiter's composition, structure, and
magnetic field, which has helped scientists understand the formation and evolution of not only
Jupiter but also our entire solar system. The knowledge gained from this mission has contributed
to our understanding of the early stages of planetary formation, and thus, the origin and evolution
of Earth.

Q2. How does the cryosphere affect global climate? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Brief definition of the term Cryosphere.
• Body: Describe the term further and mention lined to the global climate
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the significance of the Cryosphere.

Introduction:
The cryosphere, which comprises the frozen water on the Earth's surface, plays a crucial role in
regulating the planet's climate. The impact of the cryosphere on global climate is significant and
far-reaching, affecting everything from ocean currents to precipitation patterns.
Body:
Impact of Cryosphere on Global Climate:
● Albedo: The cryosphere has a high albedo, which means it reflects a significant amount of
the sun's energy [80-90%] back into space. This reflected energy helps to cool the Earth's
surface and atmosphere, and it plays a critical role in regulating the Earth's
temperature.Like In 2019, Greenland experienced its largest-ever ice melt, resulting in
a significant decrease in its albedo.
● Sea level rise: As glaciers and ice sheets melt, they contribute to sea level rise, which can
have far-reaching impacts on global climate patterns. Sea level rise can alter ocean
currents, change precipitation patterns, and impact coastal ecosystems and
communities.Like The small island nation of Kiribati in the Pacific Ocean is
particularly vulnerable to sea level rise.

● Permafrost thawing: Permafrost is frozen soil that covers nearly a quarter of the land in
the Northern Hemisphere. As permafrost thaws, it releases large amounts of methane and
carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which can contribute to the warming of the planet.
Like In Alaska, the thawing of permafrost has caused infrastructure damage and
forced some communities to relocate.
● Ocean circulation: The melting of sea ice in the Arctic Ocean can alter ocean circulation
patterns, which can impact global climate. Changes in ocean circulation can affect the

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 distribution of heat and nutrients, which can impact weather patterns around the
world.Like changes in the North Atlantic circulation pattern can impact the Gulf
Stream, which brings warm water and mild temperatures to Europe.
Conclusion:
Changes to the cryosphere can have significant implications for the planet's climate, ecosystems,
and communities. Understanding the role of the cryosphere in global climate is essential for
mitigating the impacts of climate change and developing strategies for adaptation and resilience.

Q3. Account for variations in oceanic salinity and discuss its multidimensional effect. [250
Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Brief definition of the Oceanic salinity.
• Body: Describe the Reasons for oceanic salinity and its multi-dimensional effects and
variation.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with significance of Oceanic salinity.

Introduction:
Oceanic salinity, or the concentration of salt in seawater, varies across the world's oceans due to a
range of factors. These variations can have far-reaching impacts on ocean circulation, marine
ecosystems, and climate patterns. The average salinity of the water body of the oceans is 35 parts
per thousand.
Body:
Reasons for oceanic salinity and its multi-dimensional effects:
● Precipitation: Regions with high precipitation rates tend to have lower salinity levels
because freshwater from rain dilutes the saltwater in the ocean. On the other hand, regions
with low precipitation rates have higher salinity levels.

●
Evaporation: When seawater evaporates, it leaves behind the dissolved salts, causing the
salinity level to increase. Regions with high evaporation rates, such as the tropics, tend to
have higher salinity levels.
● River runoff: Rivers carry freshwater into the ocean, which can significantly lower the
salinity level in coastal regions.
The multi-dimensional effects of oceanic salinity variations include:
● Ocean currents: Differences in oceanic salinity levels drive the formation of ocean currents,
which are responsible for distributing heat and nutrients around the world. Changes in
ocean currents can impact climate patterns and marine ecosystems.
● Marine life: Many marine organisms are sensitive to changes in salinity levels. A significant
change in salinity can affect the distribution and abundance of marine species, which can
have ripple effects throughout the food chain.
● Water cycle: Oceanic salinity levels are closely tied to the global water cycle, which is
responsible for moving water between the oceans, land, and atmosphere. Changes in
salinity levels can affect the water cycle, leading to changes in precipitation patterns and
the availability of freshwater resources.

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Conclusion:
The multi-dimensional effects of oceanic salinity are vast, ranging from changes in ocean
circulation and climate patterns to impacts on marine biodiversity and fisheries. Understanding
the factors that contribute to variations in oceanic salinity is critical for predicting and mitigating
the impacts of climate change on the world's oceans and the communities that depend on them.

Q4. What characteristic can be assigned to monsoon climate that succeeds in feeding more
than 50 % of the world population residing in monsoon Asia? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Brief about Monsoon climate.
• Body: Describe the Characteristics of monsoon climate.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Monsoon climate is a distinct climate pattern that prevails in several regions across the world. This
climate is characterized by seasonal changes in wind patterns, which result in alternating wet and
dry seasons. The monsoon climate plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural production and
food security, particularly in monsoon Asia, where over 50% of the world's population resides.
Body:
Characteristics of monsoon climate:
● Seasonal rainfall: One of the defining features of monsoon climate is the seasonal rainfall
patterns. During the wet season, which typically lasts from June to September, monsoon
Asia experiences heavy rainfall, which can be as high as 90% of the region's annual
precipitation. This rainfall is critical for supporting agricultural production and replenishing
water resources, which are essential for food security.

➢ The monsoon climate in India is characterized by distinct seasons, which facilitate the
cultivation of various types of crops. The movement of the sun between the Tropic of
Cancer and Capricorn results in these distinct seasons.
➢ The Cool Dry Season occurs during October to February, as the North-East Monsoon
brings out blowing dry winds that result in little or no rain across the Indian
subcontinent.
➢ The Hot Dry Season is marked by a sharp rise in temperature with the sun's
northward shift to the Tropic of Cancer. However, coastal regions experience some relief
from the heat due to sea breezes.
➢ The Rainy Season is observed from mid-June to September. With the burst of the
South-west monsoon in mid-June, torrential downpours sweep across the country.
Almost all the rain for the year falls within this rainy season.
➢ The Retreating Monsoon occurs towards the end of the rainy season, as the amount
and frequency of rain decrease. The monsoon gradually retreats southwards after mid-
September until it leaves the continent altogether.

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 ● High temperature and humidity: The wet season in monsoon Asia is also characterized by
high temperatures and humidity. These conditions are ideal for the growth of crops,
particularly rice, which is a staple food in many countries in the region. The high
temperatures and humidity also create an environment conducive to the growth of tropical
fruits and vegetables.
● Rivers and deltas: The monsoon climate is also characterized by large rivers and deltas,
which provide fertile soils and ample water resources for agricultural production. The
Ganges-Brahmaputra delta, for example, is one of the most fertile agricultural regions in
the world and supports the cultivation of crops such as rice, wheat, and jute.
● Adaptation strategies: The people in monsoon Asia have developed various adaptation
strategies to cope with the seasonal changes in the monsoon climate. These strategies
include crop diversification, crop rotation, and water management techniques such as
irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and building reservoirs.
Conclusion:
The unique characteristics of monsoon climate, including seasonal rainfall patterns and ample
sunlight, have enabled the development of highly productive agricultural systems in monsoon Asia.
Understanding the factors that contribute to the success of these systems is essential for ensuring
food security and sustainable development in the region and beyond.

Q5. “In Spite of adverse environmental impact, coal mining is still inevitable for
development”. Discuss. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Write about the importance of Coal Mine and its impact.
• Body: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of coal Mining.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Coal mining has been a crucial part of global energy production for centuries, but it is not without
its drawbacks. Despite its environmental impacts, many argue that it is still necessary for
development. In this essay, we will explore both sides of this argument.
Body:

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Inevitability of Coal Mining:
● Energy Security and needs : Coal is the most abundant and widely used fossil fuel. It
provides a reliable and affordable source of energy that is essential for economic growth and
development.
● Job Creation: Coal mining provides employment opportunities for millions of people
worldwide. The industry creates jobs in mining, transportation, and other related
industries.
● Infrastructure Development: Coal mining requires the development of transportation
infrastructure such as railways, roads, and ports, which can contribute to regional
development and economic growth.
● Revenue Generation: Coal mining generates significant revenue for governments through
taxes, royalties, and other fees. This revenue can be used to fund social welfare programs,
education, and healthcare.
● Renewable energy has not been fully utilized yet.
Issues persistent with Coal Mining:
● Environmental Impacts: Coal mining has significant environmental impacts, including air
and water pollution, soil degradation, and greenhouse gas emissions. These impacts can
lead to health problems, loss of biodiversity, and climate change.
● Health Hazards: Coal mining can have adverse health effects on workers and nearby
communities. Miners are exposed to coal dust, which can cause respiratory diseases such
as black lung. Coal-fired power plants also emit toxic pollutants that can affect public
health.
● Resource Depletion: Coal is a non-renewable resource that is finite. As such, its continued
use for energy generation will lead to its eventual depletion.
● Climate Change: Coal is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, which are
responsible for climate change. The continued use of coal for energy generation is
unsustainable and will lead to further environmental degradation.
Conclusion:
Coal mining is still inevitable for development, but its negative impacts cannot be ignored. To
ensure sustainable development, it is necessary to adopt cleaner coal technologies and invest in
renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. Governments and businesses should also
focus on reducing the environmental and health impacts of coal mining and address the social and
economic concerns of affected communities. Only by balancing the benefits and costs of coal
mining can we achieve sustainable development in the long run.

Q6. Mention the advantages of the cultivation of pulses because of which the year 2016
was declared as the International year of Pulses by United Nations.[150 Words, 10
Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Write the data with respect to pulses in India.
• Body: Discuss the advantage Pulses.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the importance of pulses with a futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Pulses are an essential source of nutrition for millions of people worldwide. From 19 million ha in
1950-51 to 28 million ha in 2021,the area under pulses has grown. The production of pulses
surged by nearly 200 % during the same span. In 2016, the United Nations declared it the
International Year of Pulses to highlight their importance.
Body:
Advantages of Pulses:
● Nutritional benefits: Pulses are a rich source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
They are low in fat and have no cholesterol, making them an excellent choice for a healthy
diet.
● Soil health: Pulses are nitrogen-fixing crops, which means they help to enrich the soil
with nitrogen. This reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers, which can be harmful to the
environment.

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 ●Water conservation: Pulses require less water than other crops, making them an ideal
choice for areas with limited water resources.
● Income generation: Pulses are a valuable cash crop for farmers, providing them with a
source of income and helping to support local economies.
● Climate change mitigation: The cultivation of pulses can help to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions by improving soil health and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
● Carbon emission: Pulses have been shown to increase yields while reducing carbon
emissions. Studies have shown that planting a sequence of pulse-pulse-durum wheat every
three years yielded 13% more wheat and reduced the carbon footprint of the wheat by 34%.
This is because farmers used less fertilizer and fuel, resulting in fewer emissions.
Conclusion:
The cultivation of pulses has several advantages, including their high nutritional value, ability to
improve soil health, and contribution to sustainable agriculture. By promoting the cultivation and
consumption of pulses, we can help address issues such as malnutrition, food insecurity, and
environmental degradation. It is crucial that we continue to support the cultivation of pulses to
achieve a healthier and more sustainable future.

Q7. Petroleum refineries are not necessarily located nearer to crude oil producing areas,
particularly in many of the developing countries. Explain its implications.[250 Words,
15 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Write briefly about Petroleum.
• Body: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of Petroleum Industries.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Petroleum, a natural resource found underground, is extracted from wells and then refined into
various types of fuels using fractional distillation to separate its components. Oil refineries are
often situated far from crude oil-producing areas, particularly in developing countries.
Body:
Benefit of Refineries near oil resources:
➢ Refineries located close to crude oil sources can reduce transportation costs and ensure a
steady supply of crude oil, lowering the cost of final products and increasing profitability.
➢ Refineries need access to transportation infrastructure like pipelines, railways, and
highways to transport their products to customers. Being located near such infrastructure
can reduce transportation costs and increase efficiency.
➢ Refineries require skilled labor to operate and maintain their equipment. Being located in
an area with a skilled workforce can save on labor costs and increase efficiency.
➢ Refineries located in areas with favorable regulatory environments can benefit from lower
regulatory costs and fewer restrictions on their operations, resulting in increased
profitability and a competitive advantage over other refineries.
➢ Refineries require a range of support services such as engineering, maintenance, and repair
services. Being located in an area with a strong support services industry can save on costs
and increase efficiency.
➢ Refineries can bring significant economic benefits to the communities in which they are
located. They create jobs, increase tax revenue, stimulate local businesses, and provide new
opportunities for investment and growth.
Drawback of Refineries away from the oil resource:
➢ Increased transportation costs: Refineries located far from crude oil sources require
transportation of crude oil over long distances, resulting in higher transportation costs,
which may ultimately increase the cost of petroleum products.
➢ Dependence on imports: Countries with refineries located far from their oil sources
become increasingly dependent on imports, making them vulnerable to supply disruptions
and price volatility in the global oil market.
➢ Environmental impact: Long-distance transportation of crude oil also poses environmental
risks, such as oil spills during transportation, which can have catastrophic consequences
for ecosystems and human populations.

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 ➢ Lack of local benefits: Refining operations located far from crude oil producing areas may
not provide significant benefits to the local economy or employment opportunities.
➢ Energy security concerns: Relying on imports for petroleum products raises energy
security concerns for countries that lack adequate domestic refining capacity, making them
more vulnerable to geopolitical tensions and economic disruptions.
Conclusion:
The location of petroleum refineries in developing countries away from crude oil producing areas
can have various implications, including higher transportation costs, increased dependence on
foreign oil, and potential environmental risks associated with transporting crude oil over long
distances. Policymakers need to carefully consider these implications when planning energy
infrastructure to ensure sustainable and secure energy supply chains.

Q8. In what way can floods be converted into a sustainable source of irrigation and all –
weather inland navigation in India? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Write briefly about floods.
• Body: Discuss how it can be converted into a sustainable source of irrigation and all-weather
inland navigation in India.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Floods have been a recurring natural disaster in India, causing loss of life and property damage.
However, floods also bring with them an opportunity to harness water resources for irrigation and
inland navigation.
Body:

Converted into a sustainable source of irrigation and all-weather inland navigation in India:
Irrigation:
● Inter-basin transfer involves moving water from areas with surplus water to those facing a
shortage. India has implemented this method with projects such as the Beas-Sutlej link,
Ken-Betwa link, and Telugu Ganga Project, which have also helped in developing inland
navigation.
● Barrages and dams help store excess water during monsoons to prevent floods, which can
then be released in a regulated manner or used for power generation. The Damodar Valley

171
 Corporation is an example of this approach, which was set up in 1948 to control floods and
generate power since 1953.
● Rainwater harvesting involves collecting and storing rainwater for future use, which can
be stored in wells, tanks or through rooftop harvesting. Countries such as China,
Argentina, and Brazil practice this method to use rainwater for drinking, irrigation and to
avoid groundwater depletion.
● Irrigation is crucial in drought-prone areas, such as some southern Indian states like
Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. River interlinking projects and the use of barrages can
transfer water to these regions, ensuring continuous agricultural growth.
● Inter-linking of rivers so that excess water can be transferred to the areas with less water
availability.
● Inland Navigation: Floods can also be used to facilitate inland navigation in India. During
the monsoon season, many rivers in India experience high water levels, making them
navigable. By improving river transport infrastructure, such as building ports and
terminals, it is possible to facilitate all-weather inland navigation. This can improve
connectivity between different regions, reduce transportation costs, and increase trade and
economic growth
● Sustainability: To convert floods into a sustainable source of irrigation and inland
navigation, it is essential to consider environmental sustainability. Water diversion projects
must be designed to minimize ecological damage and prioritize the needs of local
communities. Furthermore, infrastructure development should be carried out in a way that
does not disrupt natural water flow or cause environmental degradation.
Conclusion:
The power of floods for irrigation and inland navigation can be an effective way to mitigate their
destructive impacts and promote sustainable development in India. By investing in infrastructure
such as canals and dams, we can ensure that floodwaters are efficiently and safely utilized,
benefiting farmers and communities while also improving transportation networks.

2016
Q1. Discuss the concept of air mass and explain its role in macro – climatic changes. [200
Words, 12.5 Marks]
Answer:
Approach:
• Introduction: Brief about Air Mass.
• Body: Describe the Role in macro-climatic changes.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the significance of air mass in macro climate.
Introduction:
Air mass refers to a large body of air with uniform temperature and humidity characteristics
throughout its horizontal extent. The properties of an air mass depend on its source region, which
could be either continental or maritime.
Body:
Characteristics of Air Masses:
● Temperature: Air masses can be classified based on their temperature characteristics.
Those originating from warmer regions are called tropical air masses, while those
originating from colder regions are referred to as polar air masses.
● Humidity: The moisture content of air masses determines their humidity. Maritime air
masses, originating over oceans, tend to be humid, while continental air masses, originating
over land, are relatively drier.
● Stability: Stability refers to the tendency of an air mass to resist vertical motion. Stable air
masses resist upward movement, resulting in clear skies and calmer weather conditions.
Unstable air masses, on the other hand, promote vertical motion, leading to the formation
of clouds, storms, and precipitation.
Types of Air Masses:
● Maritime Tropical (mT): These air masses form over warm oceanic regions near the
equator. They are warm, humid, and carry abundant moisture. When they move inland,
they often lead to convective storms and heavy rainfall.

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 ● Maritime Polar (mP): mP air masses originate over colder oceanic regions. They are cooler
and more humid compared to continental air masses. When they move over land, they can
bring cooler temperatures, fog, and precipitation.
● Continental Tropical (cT): cT air masses form over hot and arid regions, such as deserts.
They are dry and warm, carrying little moisture. Their movement can result in hot and dry
conditions, leading to increased temperatures and aridity in affected areas.
● Continental Polar (cP): cP air masses form over cold landmasses, such as the Arctic or
Siberia. They are cold and dry, leading to drops in temperature and potential snowfall
when they move southward.
Role of Air Masses in Macro-climatic Changes:
● Weather Systems: Air masses interact with each other, leading to the formation of weather
systems such as fronts. The collision of air masses with different temperature and humidity
characteristics can create weather fronts, including cold fronts and warm fronts. These
fronts bring about changes in temperature, wind patterns, and precipitation, influencing
macro-climatic conditions.
● Storm Development: Air masses serve as the primary source of energy for storm
development. The collision of contrasting air masses can lead to the formation of severe
storms, including thunderstorms, cyclones, and tornadoes. The movement and interaction
of air masses contribute to the frequency and intensity of such storms, impacting macro-
climatic patterns.
● Precipitation Patterns: Air masses, particularly maritime air masses, play a crucial role in
precipitation formation. When moist air masses encounter topographic barriers or converge
with other air masses, they undergo uplift, leading to cloud formation and subsequent
rainfall or snowfall. The movement of air masses over extended periods influences
precipitation patterns, including rainfall distribution and intensity.
● Climate Variability: The long-term movement and interaction of air masses contribute to
climate variability. Changes in the frequency and path of air masses can result in shifts in
temperature, precipitation, and wind patterns over years or decades.
Conclusion:
Air masses are critical elements of the Earth's atmospheric circulation, and they significantly
influence macro-climatic changes. By studying air masses' properties and trajectories, scientists
can predict and forecast changes in weather patterns, such as the onset of monsoons or cyclones.
Understanding air masses' behavior is vital to mitigating the adverse impacts of climate change and
ensuring sustainable development.

Q2. “The Himalayas are highly prone to landslides.” Discuss the causes and suggest suitable
measures of mitigation.[200 Words, 12.5 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with a brief about the Himalayas.
• Body: Significant of Causes of Landslides and its measures of mitigation in the Himalayas.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the importance of Himalayas.

Introduction:
The Himalayas is the highest mountain range in the world, and has 9 out of 10 of the world’s
highest peaks. One of the most geologically active mountain ranges in the world, it is highly prone
to landslides. Landslides occur due to various reasons and can cause significant damage to life,
property, and infrastructure.

173
Body:

Causes of Landslides in the Himalayas:

● Geological Composition: The Himalayas are geologically unstable due to tectonic plate
movements, resulting in frequent earthquakes and landslides. E.g In 2015, a massive
earthquake of magnitude 7.8 struck Nepal, causing widespread damage and loss of
life. The earthquake was caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the
Himalayan region.
● Topography: The steep terrain and high elevation of the Himalayas make them susceptible
to landslides.E.g In 2017, a massive landslide occurred in the Indian state of Himachal
Pradesh, burying two buses and killing more than 50 people. The steep terrain of the
region contributed to the severity of the landslide.
● Deforestation: The clearing of forests for agriculture and construction destabilizes the soil
and increases the risk of landslides. E.g In 2013, a landslide in Uttarakhand, India killed
over 5,000 people and destroyed homes, bridges, and roads.
● Climate Change: The melting of glaciers and changes in rainfall patterns due to climate
change contribute to landslides in the region. E.g In 2018, a massive landslide in Sikkim,
India killed at least six people and destroyed several homes.
● Excessive rainfall in monsoon also leads to landslides in the himalayas.
Measures of Mitigation:
● Early warning systems: Developing and implementing early warning systems using remote
sensing, satellite imagery, and real-time monitoring of rainfall and soil moisture levels can
provide advance warning of potential landslides, allowing for timely evacuation and rescue
operations. like the IMD department.
● Landslide zoning: Identifying and mapping high-risk landslide zones and prohibiting
human activities in those areas can help prevent landslides.
● Afforestation: Planting trees and vegetation on the slopes can help stabilize the soil,
prevent soil erosion, and reduce the risk of landslides.
● Slope stabilization: Stabilizing slopes using techniques such as terracing, retaining walls,
and drainage systems can prevent the loss of soil and rock material due to landslides.
● Building codes: Developing and enforcing building codes that consider the local geological
and hydrological conditions can ensure that new infrastructure is designed to withstand
landslides and minimize damage.
Conclusion:
Landslides are a significant natural hazard in the Himalayan region, posing a severe threat to
human lives and infrastructure. A collaborative effort between the government, communities, and
scientists is necessary to develop sustainable solutions to reduce the risk of landslides in the
region.

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Q3. The effective management of land and water resources will drastically reduce the
human miseries. Explain.[200 Words, 12.5 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Write briefly about Natural resources.
• Body: Discuss how effective land management can reduce human misery in the following
manner.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Land and water resources management play a crucial role in sustainable development, poverty
reduction, and alleviating human miseries. Effective management of these resources can contribute
to economic growth, food security, and access to clean water, mitigating the impacts of natural
disasters and climate change.
Body:
Effective land management can reduce human misery in the following manner:
● Promoting Sustainable Agriculture: Sustainable land management practices such as
afforestation, soil conservation, and terracing can stabilize the soil, reduce erosion, and
increase soil fertility. This ensures sustainable agricultural production, reduces food
insecurity, and alleviates poverty.
● Reducing Soil Erosion: Poor land management practices, such as deforestation and
overgrazing, can lead to soil erosion, landslides, and reduced productivity. Effective land
management practices such as contour farming, terracing, and afforestation can reduce soil
erosion and promote sustainable land use.
● Enhancing Biodiversity: Biodiversity loss is a major environmental issue that can lead to
ecological imbalances, reduced productivity, and the loss of ecosystem services. Effective
land management practices such as conservation agriculture, agroforestry, and ecosystem
restoration can enhance biodiversity, promote ecological balance, and ensure sustainable
development.
● Mitigating Climate Change: Climate change is a significant threat to human lives and the
environment. Effective land management practices such as afforestation, reforestation, and
conservation agriculture can help mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon and
reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
● Reducing Land Degradation: Land degradation is a major environmental issue that can
lead to soil erosion, reduced productivity, and biodiversity loss. Effective land management
practices such as conservation agriculture, soil conservation, and land restoration can
reduce land degradation, promote ecological balance, and ensure sustainable development.
● Promoting Sustainable Land Use Planning: Land use planning is essential for ensuring
sustainable development and reducing the impact of human activities on the environment.
Effective land management practices such as land use zoning, environmental impact
assessments, and stakeholder participation can promote sustainable land use planning and
ensure the efficient use of land resources.
Conclusion:
Sustainable management practices such as soil conservation, watershed management, and water
use efficiency can improve land productivity, conserve water resources, and reduce poverty. The
effective management of land and water resources requires a collaborative effort between
governments, communities, and stakeholders to ensure equitable access, conservation, and
sustainable use of these resources.

Q4. The South China Sea has assumed great geopolitical significance in the present
context. Comment. [200 Words, 12.5 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Write in brief about the south china sea.
• Body: Significant or Significance of south china sea.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the importance of the south china sea.

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Introduction:
The South China Sea has become a significant geopolitical hotspot due to its strategic location. The
region is home to more than 200 small islands, coral reefs, and atolls that are claimed by China,
Taiwan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei. The dispute over territorial claims,
freedom of navigation, and natural resources has raised tensions among regional and global
powers.
Body:

Significance of south china sea:

● Territorial Claims: The territorial claims in the South China Sea have been a long standing
issue, with several countries claiming exclusive economic zones [EEZs] and rights over the
islands and resources. China's claim over the majority of the South China Sea, marked by
the nine-dash line, has been contested by other countries and has led to tensions in the
region.
● Strategic Significance: The South China Sea's strategic location has made it a crucial sea
route for trade and energy transportation, connecting major economies such as China,
Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asian countries. The region is also home to significant
oil and natural gas reserves, fisheries, and mineral resources.
● Geopolitical significance: The conflicting territorial claims and strategic significance of the
South China Sea have led to diplomatic and military tensions between the countries
involved. The United States [US] has increased its military presence in the region,
conducting freedom of navigation operations, and providing security assistance to its allies.
China has responded by strengthening its maritime capabilities, building artificial islands,
and asserting its territorial claims.
● Environmental Concerns: The South China Sea is facing environmental challenges due to
pollution, overfishing, and coral reef destruction. These issues have threatened the region's
marine biodiversity and the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on its resources
Conclusion:
The South China Sea's geopolitical significance is due to its location as a vital trade route, its rich
natural resources, and the competing territorial claims among nations in the region. To ensure
peace, stability, and sustainable development, a diplomatic and cooperative approach is necessary
to resolve disputes and promote regional cooperation.

Q5. Major cities of India are becoming vulnerable to flood conditions. Discuss.[200 Words,
12.5 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with Data or Report.
• Body: Significant causes of flood and Impact of flood on major cities.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

Introduction:
India suffered a total loss of $3.2 billion from flooding. The country faced heavy rains and flash
floods during the monsoon season between June and September.Major cities in India are
witnessing an increase in flood-related disasters, primarily due to rapid urbanization,
encroachment of natural drainage systems, and climate change. Example:- Floods in Mumbai,
Delhi etc.

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Body:
Causes of flooding in major cities:
● Rapid Urbanization: Rapid urbanization has led to the expansion of cities into flood-prone
areas, such as wetlands, lakes, and riverbanks, disrupting the natural drainage systems
and aggravating flooding Like Patna
● Encroachment of Natural Drainage Systems: Encroachment of natural drainage systems,
such as rivers and streams, for construction and development purposes, has reduced their
carrying capacity and increased flood risk. Like Vanarash
● Poor Urban Planning: Poor urban planning and inadequate infrastructure, including
drainage systems, stormwater management, and flood protection measures, exacerbate
flood damage.
● Climate Change: Climate change has led to changes in rainfall patterns, increased
intensity of rainfall, and sea-level rise, leading to higher flood risks in coastal areas and
river deltas.
Impact of Flooding on Major Cities:
● Damage to Infrastructure: Floods cause severe damage to roads, bridges, buildings, and
other infrastructure, leading to significant economic losses.
Public Health: Floods can cause outbreaks of water-borne diseases, leading to public
health emergencies.
● Displacement of People: Floods can displace people from their homes, leading to social
and economic disruptions and exacerbating poverty.
● Environmental Degradation: Floods can cause soil erosion, sedimentation, and loss of
biodiversity, leading to long-term environmental degradation LikeNorthern Bihar

● Integrated Water Management: An integrated approach to water management, including

rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and improved wastewater management, can
reduce flooding and promote sustainable water use.
● Green Infrastructure: Developing green infrastructure, such as parks, wetlands, and green
roofs, can help absorb rainwater and reduce flood risk.
● Improved Urban Planning: Improved urban planning, including flood mapping, land-use
regulations, and resilient infrastructure design, can mitigate flood damage.

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 ● Early Warning Systems: Developing early warning systems and emergency response plans
can help reduce the loss of life and property during floods.
● Climate Adaptation Measures: Climate adaptation measures, such as sea-level rise
projections and coastal protection measures, can help reduce flood risk in coastal cities.
Conclusion:
The vulnerability of major Indian cities to floods is a significant challenge that requires immediate
attention. Strategies such as improving drainage systems, managing land-use patterns, and
implementing flood mitigation measures can reduce the impacts of flooding in urban areas. A
coordinated effort between government authorities, communities, and stakeholders is necessary to
develop sustainable solutions to address this critical issue.

Q6. Present an account of the Indus Water Treaty and examine its ecological, economic and
bilateral relation. [200 Words, 12.5 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Brief about Indus Water Treaty.
• Body: Discuss about the Ecological, Economic Implications and Bilateral Relations of Indus
Water Treaty.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the significant role of the Indus Water Treaty.

Introduction:
The Indus Water Treaty is a bilateral water-sharing agreement signed between India and Pakistan
in 1960 to share the waters of the Indus River and its tributaries. The treaty provides for the
allocation of the river waters between the two countries and regulates the construction of dams and
other water-related infrastructure on the river.
Body:

● Ecological Implications: The Indus Water Treaty has had significant ecological
implications, particularly for the downstream areas in Pakistan. The construction of dams
and barrages by India has resulted in reduced water flows downstream, leading to
degradation of ecosystems, loss of biodiversity, and reduced fish populations.
● Economic Implications: The treaty has also had significant economic implications for both
India and Pakistan. The treaty's provisions have enabled the development of hydroelectric
power projects, which have provided India with significant electricity generation capacity.
However, the treaty has also resulted in disputes over the sharing of the river waters, which
has impacted economic growth and development in the region.
● Bilateral Relations: The Indus Water Treaty has been a significant factor in the bilateral
relations between India and Pakistan. While the treaty has been successful in managing
water resources between the two countries, it has also been a source of contention and
disputes. Recent tensions between the two countries have led to concerns about the treaty's
future, which could have significant geopolitical implications in the region.

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Conclusion:
The Indus Water Treaty has played a significant role in managing the water resources of the Indus
River system and preventing conflicts between India and Pakistan. However, ecological, economic,
and bilateral relations aspects must be carefully considered to ensure sustainable development and
equitable sharing of resources.

Q7. Enumerate the problem and prospects of inland water transport in India. [200 Words,
12.5 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Brief about Inland water transport.
• Body: Discuss about the problems and prospects of inland water transport in India.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Inland water transport [IWT] is a crucial mode of transportation in India that can provide a cost-
effective, energy-efficient, and environmentally sustainable alternative to road and rail transport; it
remains underutilized at a share of 2% in India’s model mix.
Body:
Problems of Inland Water Transport in India:
● Infrastructure: The lack of adequate infrastructure, such as ports, terminals, and
navigational aids, hinders the growth of IWT in India.
● Limited connectivity: The limited connectivity of IWT with other modes of transport, such
as road and rail, makes it less competitive and reduces its potential for intermodal
transport.
● Maintenance: The inadequate maintenance of waterways, vessels, and related
infrastructure reduces the efficiency and safety of IWT.
● Inefficient regulatory framework: The complex regulatory framework, overlapping
jurisdictions, and bureaucratic hurdles hinder the development of IWT in India.
● Environmental issues like pollution, biodiversity and floods in the river system.
Prospects of Inland Water Transport in India:
● Economic benefits: IWT has the potential to provide cost-effective, energy-efficient, and
environmentally sustainable transportation for bulk cargo and passengers, particularly in
the hinterland regions.
● Employment opportunities: The growth of IWT can create employment opportunities in
the transport, logistics, and related sectors, particularly in the rural areas.
● Integration with coastal shipping: The integration of IWT with coastal shipping can
enhance connectivity, reduce congestion, and promote intermodal transport in India.
● Environmental benefits: IWT is a low-carbon mode of transport that can reduce
greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, contributing to India's sustainable
development goals.
Conclusion:
Inland water transport in India has both challenges and opportunities such as developing
infrastructure, enhancing the regulatory framework, and increasing investment, which can help
realize the sector's potential. A strategic approach that promotes sustainable development, private
sector participation, and cooperation among stakeholders is necessary to maximize the prospects of
inland water transport in India.

Q8. In what way micro- watershed development projects help in water conservation in
drought – prone and semi- arid regions of India?[200 Words, 12.5 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with Importance of Micro-watershed development Project.
• Body: Discuss the Micro-watershed development Project role in water conservation in
drought prone and semi-arid regions.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach.

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Introduction:
Micro-watershed development refers to the holistic approach of managing small-scale watersheds
to promote sustainable land and water resource management. It involves implementing
conservation measures, land use planning, and community participation for improved water
availability and soil conservation.
Body:
Micro-watershed development project role in water conservation in drought prone and semi-
arid regions:
● Soil and Water Conservation: Micro-watershed development projects focus on soil and
water conservation through measures such as contour bunding, check dams, and water
harvesting structures. This helps in reducing soil erosion and increasing water retention in
the soil.
● Rainwater Harvesting: These projects promote rainwater harvesting, which helps to
recharge groundwater levels and increase water availability during the dry season.
● Sustainable Agriculture: Micro-watershed development projects also promote sustainable
agricultural practices that conserve water and reduce water use, such as crop
diversification, organic farming, and efficient irrigation methods.
● Community Participation: These projects involve local communities in the planning and
implementation process, creating a sense of ownership and promoting sustainability.
● Livelihood Improvement: The projects provide livelihood opportunities through the
development of alternative income-generating activities such as horticulture, forestry, and
livestock rearing, which are less water-intensive.
Conclusion:
Micro-watershed development projects have proven to be effective in conserving water resources in
drought-prone and semi-arid regions of India. The projects have helped to improve soil health,
increase groundwater recharge, and provide an additional source of water for irrigation and
domestic use. The success of these projects depends on proper planning, community participation,
and sustainable management practices.

2015
Q1. Explain the factors responsible for the origin of ocean currents. How do they influence
regional climates, fishing and navigation? [200 Words, 12.5 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Brief about Ocean currents.
• Body: Discuss the factors responsible for the origin of ocean currents.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the role in shape of the Earth and resources.

Introduction:
Ocean currents are massive and continuous movements of water within the Earth's oceans. These
currents are driven by various factors, including wind, temperature, and salinity differences, and
have a significant influence on regional climates, fishing, and navigation.
Body:
Factors responsible for the origin of ocean currents:
● Surface water is driven by winds, generating surface currents that flow in specific
directions.
● The intensity and direction of these winds influence the speed and direction of ocean
currents.
● Differences in ocean water density and salinity are crucial factors in the origin of ocean
currents.
● Denser water sinks and moves as undercurrents, while lighter water moves towards denser
water as surface currents.
● The rotation of the Earth creates a Coriolis force that affects the direction of water
movement.
● The presence of bays, estuaries, and other coastal features can influence the speed and
direction of currents, leading to the formation of eddies and gyres.

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 ● The movement of water through the oceans is slowed by friction, generating currents.
● The frictional force between water layers also plays a role in the formation of ocean
currents.

Factors Affecting the Origin of Ocean Currents:

● Planetary Winds: Primary cause of ocean currents, driving surface water and generating
specific flow directions influenced by wind intensity and direction.
● Density and Salinity Differences: Variances in density and salinity create variations in
water movement. Denser water sinks, forming undercurrents, while lighter water moves as
surface currents toward denser water.
● Rotation of the Earth: Earth's rotation creates Coriolis force, impacting water movement.
Northern hemisphere currents deflect to the right, while southern hemisphere currents
deflect to the left, leading to circular current patterns.
● Coastline Shape: Coastal features such as bays and estuaries affect currents, influencing
their speed and direction and causing the formation of eddies and gyres.
● Frictional Force: Friction slows water movement, generating currents as adjacent fluid
layers move at different velocities. Frictional force between water layers also contributes to
the formation of ocean currents.
Factor that affect the regional climates, Fishing and navigation:
● Influence on Regional Climates: Ocean currents play a crucial role in shaping regional
climates. Warm currents can bring milder temperatures to coastal areas, while cold
currents can cool nearby regions. They can also affect the distribution of precipitation,
leading to variations in rainfall patterns and influencing the formation of coastal fog and
cloud cover.
● Impact on Fishing: Ocean currents significantly influence fish migration patterns and the
availability of nutrients. Upwelling zones, where cold, nutrient-rich water rises to the
surface, create favorable conditions for phytoplankton growth, supporting thriving
ecosystems and attracting fish. Fishermen often target areas influenced by upwelling for
productive fishing grounds.
● Navigation: Knowledge of ocean currents is vital for navigation, especially for mariners and
sailors. Currents can impact ship routes, travel times, and fuel consumption.
Understanding the direction and strength of ocean currents helps optimize navigation,
allowing ships to take advantage of favorable currents for faster and more efficient voyages.
Conclusion:
Ocean currents play a crucial role in shaping the Earth's climate, as well as providing important
resources for human activities such as fishing and navigation. Understanding the factors that drive
these currents is essential for predicting and managing their impacts on coastal communities and
the global environment.

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Q2. Smart cities in India cannot sustain without smart villages. Discuss this statement in
the backdrop of rural urban integration. [200 Words, 12.5 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with Data and importance of village.
• Body: Discuss the benefits and challenges of Rural-Urban integration.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

Introduction:
31% of India‟s population live in cities and generate 36% of the Nation‟s economic activity.
India's Smart Cities Mission aims to develop 100 smart cities across the country by 2022. The
success of this mission depends not only on the development of urban areas but also on the
integration of rural and urban areas. Smart cities in India cannot sustain without smart villages,
as rural-urban integration is essential for achieving sustainable development.
Body:
Need for Smart Villages: Smart villages are rural areas that use technology and innovation to
enhance their economic, social, and environmental sustainability. India's rural areas account for
more than 60% of the population and are home to a significant portion of the country's natural
resources. It is essential to invest in smart villages to ensure inclusive and sustainable
development.
Benefits of Rural-Urban Integration:
● Increased economic growth: By integrating rural areas with urban areas, it is possible to
leverage the strengths of both to drive economic growth.
● Improved access to services: Smart villages can benefit from improved access to
healthcare, education, and other services that are typically available in urban areas.
● Reduced migration: When rural areas are developed with the same level of infrastructure
and technology as urban areas, it can reduce the need for people to migrate to cities in
search of better opportunities.
● Sustainable use of natural resources: Smart villages can help to conserve natural
resources by promoting sustainable agriculture and eco-friendly practices.
● Better governance: Rural-urban integration can lead to better governance, as it enables
the sharing of knowledge and resources between urban and rural areas.
Challenges of Rural-Urban Integration:
● Infrastructure: Developing infrastructure in rural areas can be expensive and challenging
due to the lack of resources and the difficulty of reaching remote areas.
● Technology: Access to technology and internet connectivity is limited in many rural areas,
which can hinder the implementation of smart village initiatives.
● Capacity building: The lack of skills and knowledge among rural populations can be a
barrier to the implementation of smart village initiatives.
Examples of smart villages in India:
Punsari (Gujarat), Hiware Bazar (Maharashtra), Mandapathur (Tamil Nadu).
Conclusion:
The development of smart cities in India cannot sustain without the development of smart villages.
Rural-urban integration is essential for achieving sustainable development in the country. The
needs of rural areas, smart city initiatives can ensure that the benefits of urban development are
spread more widely, leading to inclusive and equitable growth across the country

Q3. What is the economic significance of the discovery of oil in the Arctic Sea and its
possible environmental consequences?[200 Words, 12.5 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with Data and importance.
• Body: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of Arctic oil reserves.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

182
Introduction:
Arctic oil can be found both on and offshore but the vast majority [an estimated 84%] is offshore.
The Arctic Sea has the potential to transform the global energy market. The economic benefits of
this discovery must be weighed against the potential environmental consequences of extracting and
transporting oil in this sensitive ecosystem.
Body:
Positive Implications:
● Increased oil supply: The Arctic region is estimated to hold significant oil reserves, and the
discovery of oil in the Arctic ocean could increase global oil supply, potentially reducing oil
prices.
● Economic growth: The development of infrastructure, connectivity and the extraction of oil
in the Arctic could create jobs and stimulate economic growth in countries with Arctic
coastlines, Like Russia, Canada, and Norway.

● Diversification of energy sources: Access to Arctic oil could reduce dependence on oil
from other regions, providing a more diverse energy mix for countries and enhancing energy
security.
Negative Implications:
● Environmental risks: The exploration and extraction of oil in the Arctic pose significant
environmental risks, including oil spills, pollution, and damage to the fragile Arctic
ecosystem. Any accidents could have severe and long-lasting impacts on marine life, birds,
and other wildlife in the area.
● Climate change: The extraction of fossil fuels, including Arctic oil, contributes to
greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. As the urgency of reducing emissions and
limiting global warming grows, exploiting Arctic oil reserves may not be a sustainable long-
term solution for energy security and economic growth.

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 ●Geopolitical tensions: Access to Arctic oil reserves could exacerbate geopolitical tensions
between Arctic countries and could lead to conflicts over oil reserves and shipping routes.
Conclusion:
The discovery of oil reserves in the Arctic Sea could have significant economic benefits, it is
essential to consider the potential environmental consequences carefully. Developing sustainable
and responsible methods for extracting and transporting oil in this region is crucial to ensure that
the economic benefits are balanced with protecting the delicate Arctic ecosystem for future
generations.
Q4. Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three megacities of the country but the air
pollution is a much more serious problem in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why
is this so?[200 Words, 12.5 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Define air pollution and impact on Cities.
• Body: Discuss the factors responsible for air pollution.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a summary of the answer with a futuristic
approach.

Introduction:
"Delhi has been consistently ranked as one of the most polluted cities in the world. In 2022, it was
listed as the 4th most polluted city in the world, according to IQAir's World Air Quality Report." Air
pollution is contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical or
biological agent.
Body:
Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata are the three most populous cities in India, and all three face
significant air pollution challenges. Delhi's air pollution problem is more severe than the other two
cities.
Significant reasons:
● Geographical Location: Delhi is situated in a landlocked area, with no nearby water
bodies, while Mumbai and Kolkata are coastal cities. This geographic location of Delhi
exacerbates the impact of pollution due to the absence of a natural outlet for pollutants.
● Vehicular Traffic: Delhi has a higher number of private vehicles compared to Mumbai and
Kolkata. The high traffic density coupled with outdated public transportation infrastructure
results in heavy traffic congestion, leading to more emissions.
● Industrialization: Delhi has a more significant number of small-scale industries and
factories, which burn fossil fuels, emitting pollutants into the air. Mumbai and Kolkata have
industrialized areas located outside the city, which reduces the impact of pollution on the
city's air.
● Agricultural Residue Burning: The practice of burning agricultural residue in the nearby
states of Delhi is another major contributor to the city's air pollution.
Example :- stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana.
Conclusion:
Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata face significant air pollution challenges, Delhi's problem is more
severe due to several factors, including its geography, weather patterns, and urbanization trends.
Delhi's air pollution problem will require a multifaceted approach that considers both short-term
and long-term solutions to improve air quality and protect public health.

Q5. India is well endowed with fresh water resources. Critically examine why it still suffers
from water scarcity. [200 Words, 12.5 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with Data or Report.
• Body: Discuss the reasons for water scarcity in India.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

184
Introduction:
India experiences an average precipitation of 1170 mm per year,or about 4000 cubic kilometers of
rain annually or about 1720 cubic meters of fresh water per person every year. India accounts for
18 % of the world population and about 4 % of the world's water resources. Despite this
abundance, the country continues to face water scarcity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions.
Body:
Reasons for water scarcity in India:
● Unequal distribution: The states of Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and the northeastern
states of India have abundant water resources, while the arid regions of Rajasthan, Gujarat,
and parts of Maharashtra face severe water scarcity.
● Increasing demand: Cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad are experiencing rapid
urbanization and population growth, leading to increased demand for water.
● Overexploitation of groundwater: The states of Punjab, Haryana, and parts of Uttar
Pradesh are known for intensive agriculture practices that rely heavily on groundwater,
leading to the depletion of aquifers.
● Unsustainable agricultural practices:- mono-cropping, fertilizers flow in the water bodies
is polluting the water resources.
● Climate change: The states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu have been
affected by prolonged droughts in recent years, leading to water scarcity.
● Poor water management: The state of Bihar has poor irrigation infrastructure and
practices, leading to inefficient use of water resources and exacerbating the problem of
water scarcity.
Conclusion:
India has abundant freshwater resources, the country's water scarcity problem is due to several
factors, including inefficient water use, population growth, rapid urbanization, climate change, and
poor water management practices. India's water scarcity challenges will require a multifaceted
approach that considers both short-term and long-term solutions to improve water management,
protect freshwater resources, and ensure water security for all.

Q6. The state of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are reaching the
limits of ecological carrying capacity due to tourism. Critically Evaluate. [200 Words,
12.5 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Write data or importance of tourism.
• Body: Discuss the Challenges of ecological carrying capacity due to tourism.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Tourism sector contributes around 5.5-6% to the country's GDP. It has become a significant
contributor to the economies of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. This
rapid growth in tourism has also put a strain on the fragile ecosystems of these states.
Body:
Challenges of ecological carrying capacity due to tourism:
Environmental Degradation:
● The increasing number of tourists in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and
Uttarakhand has led to significant environmental degradation, including deforestation, soil
erosion, and water pollution.
● Tourists often indulge in activities like littering, overuse of natural resources, and
degradation of fragile ecosystems, putting immense pressure on the region's carrying
capacity.
● The construction of hotels, resorts, and other tourist infrastructure has often led to the
destruction of natural habitats, leading to significant biodiversity loss.
● Pollution in the region leads to clogging of water bodies.
Infrastructure Strain:
● The rapid growth of tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand
has put immense strain on the region's infrastructure, leading to increased congestion,
traffic jams, and overcrowding.

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 ●It has led to increased air and noise pollution, affecting the quality of life for local
residents and tourists alike.
● The inadequate supply of basic services such as water, sanitation, and waste
management has led to further environmental degradation and public health challenges.
Social and Cultural Impacts:
● The rapid growth of tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand
has also had significant social and cultural impacts, with the influx of tourists leading to
changes in local lifestyles, values, and traditions.
● The commodification of local culture and traditions has led to cultural homogenization,
leading to the loss of cultural diversity and authenticity.
Conclusion:
The increasing pressure of tourism on the natural resources of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal
Pradesh, and Uttarakhand is a cause of concern. Challenge requires a collaborative effort between
the government, tourism industry, and local communities to adopt sustainable tourism practices
and protect the natural heritage of these states.

Q7. How far do you agree that the behavior of the Indian monsoon has been changing due
to humanizing landscape? Discuss.[200 Words, 12.5 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Write the importance of Indian Monsoon.
• Body: Discuss the change behavior of the Indian monsoon.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

Introduction:
The Indian monsoon, one of the most significant weather phenomena in South Asia, is critical for
the country's agriculture, economy, and livelihoods. With climate change and human activities the
monsoon pattern has changed.
There is increasing evidence to suggest that human activities are affecting the behavior of the
Indian monsoon:-
● Land Use Changes: Human-induced alterations in the landscape that could impact the
Indian monsoon are land-use changes. Agricultural expansion, deforestation have altered
the land surface and vegetation cover, which could impact the atmospheric moisture
balance and influence the behavior of the monsoon.
E.g The Western Ghats and Northeast India, has affected the local climate and monsoon
patterns. Deforestation in the Amazon rainforest has also been linked to changes in the
South American monsoon
● Air Pollution: The rapid industrialization and urbanization in cities like Delhi have led to
severe air pollution, with high levels of particulate matter and pollutants. This pollution can
affect the monsoon by altering cloud formation processes and reducing rainfall, as observed
in studies linking air pollution with reduced precipitation over the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
● Climate Change: Climate change, primarily driven by greenhouse gas emissions from
human activities, is also likely to influence the behavior of the Indian monsoon. Rising
temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and changing weather patterns could have
significant impacts on the timing, intensity, and duration of the monsoon.
E.g Research suggests that increased warming over the Indian Ocean and decreased
temperature gradients between land and ocean can lead to changes in the monsoon
circulation, resulting in altered rainfall patterns and prolonged dry spells.
Conclusion:
Indian monsoon is a complex weather phenomenon influenced by several natural and human
factors, there is growing evidence that human activities are changing the monsoon's behavior.
These challenges require a coordinated effort between policymakers, scientists, and local
communities to adopt sustainable land-use practices and mitigate the impacts of climate change to
protect the Indian monsoon's stability and predictability.

186
 2014
Q1. Bring out the relationship between the shrinking Himalayan glaciers and the symptoms
of climate change in the Indian sub – continent.[150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Write the importance of Himalayan glaciers.
• Body: Discuss the symptoms of climate change in the Indian subcontinent.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

Introduction:
The Himalayan glaciers are one of the most important freshwater resources in the Indian
subcontinent, and their rapid shrinking has become a cause of concern for the region. There is
growing evidence to suggest that this phenomenon is linked to the symptoms of climate change
that are becoming increasingly prevalent in the Indian subcontinent.
Body:
Symptoms of climate change in the Indian subcontinent:
● Water Scarcity:
➢ The shrinking Himalayan glaciers are contributing to water scarcity in the Indian
subcontinent.
➢ The Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus river systems rely on the Himalayan glaciers for
their water supply, and are showing signs of reduced flow and lower water levels,
leading to water shortages and conflicts.

● Changing Weather Patterns: The melting of the Himalayan glaciers is also altering the
region's weather patterns, leading to more extreme weather events like floods, landslides,
and droughts. They have significant impacts on the region's agriculture, economy, and
livelihoods.
● Melting Permafrost: The melting of the Himalayan glaciers is also contributing to the
melting of permafrost in the region. The melting of permafrost is releasing large amounts of
methane and other greenhouse gasses, further exacerbating climate change.
● Ecosystem Disruption: The shrinking Himalayan glaciers are also disrupting the region's
ecosystems. As glaciers melt, they release sediment and debris, altering the flow of rivers

187
 and affecting the habitat of several aquatic species. The loss of glaciers is also leading to the
disappearance of several alpine flora and fauna, affecting biodiversity in the region.
● Geopolitical Tensions: The shrinking Himalayan glaciers have also led to increased
geopolitical tensions in the region. Countries in the Indian subcontinent are competing for
water resources, leading to conflicts over the sharing of rivers that originate from the
Himalayan glaciers.
● Disasters like Landslides, Glacier lakes outbursts, avalanches etc.
Conclusion:
The shrinking Himalayan glaciers and the symptoms of climate change in the Indian subcontinent
are closely interlinked. This challenge requires a coordinated effort between policymakers,
scientists, and local communities to adopt sustainable practices and mitigate the impacts of
climate change to protect the region's freshwater resources and prevent adverse consequences for
the local communities.

Q2. Why did the Green Revolution in India virtually bypass the eastern region despite
fertile soil and good availability of water?[150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Brief about the green revolution.
• Body: Discuss factors that contribute to the Green Revolution.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a futuristic approach.

Introduction:
The Green Revolution, initiated in the 1960s, brought a significant transformation in the
agricultural sector in India. This revolution virtually bypassed the eastern region of India, despite
the availability of fertile soil and water resources.
Body:
Factors that led to the Green Revolution bypassing the northeastern region of India:
● Lack of Irrigation Infrastructure: One of the main reasons for the Green Revolution's
limited impact in the eastern region was the lack of adequate irrigation infrastructure. The
region had fertile soil and good availability of water, there was little investment in irrigation
systems, leading to lower yields and less efficient use of resources.
● Poor Agricultural Inputs: In the eastern region was the lack of access to quality
agricultural inputs such as high-yielding varieties of seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. This
was compounded by a lack of awareness among farmers about the benefits of using such
inputs, leading to low adoption rates.
● Fragmented Land Holdings: The eastern region also suffered from a fragmented land
holding pattern, with small and marginal farmers owning most of the land. This made it
difficult to achieve economies of scale, leading to low productivity and inadequate returns
on investment.
● Lack of Political Will: Lack of political will to invest in the eastern region's agriculture
sector was a significant contributing factor to the Green Revolution's failure to take root in
the region. Policymakers prioritized other regions with more significant political clout and
focused less on the eastern region.
● Poor infrastructure, instability in the region and connectivity issues.
Conclusion:
Despite the availability of fertile soil and water resources, the Green Revolution virtually bypassed
the eastern region of India due to several factors, including lack of infrastructure, fragmented
landholding, inadequate research and development, and policy neglect. Challenges require a
concerted effort between the government, research institutions, and local communities to develop
and implement suitable policies and programs to improve agricultural productivity and support the
development of the region.

Q3. Account for the change in the spatial pattern of the Iron and Steel industry in the
world. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer

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Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with Importance of the iron and steel industry.
• Body: Explore some of the factors that contributed to some changes.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

Introduction:
The iron and steel industry has been one of the most important and strategic industries in the
world since the Industrial Revolution. The spatial pattern of the industry has changed significantly
over time.
Body:
Reasons of change in spatial pattern in Iron industry:
● Technological Innovations: Significant factors driving the change in the spatial pattern of
the iron and steel industry has been technological innovation. The development of new
technologies and production processes, it has become possible to locate iron and steel
plants closer to raw material sources, reducing transportation costs and improving
efficiency.
● Globalization: The process of globalization has a significant impact on the iron and steel
industry's spatial pattern. The industry has become increasingly integrated globally, with
companies locating production facilities in countries with lower labor costs and fewer
environmental regulations.
● Shifts in Resource Availability: Changes in resource availability have also contributed to
the change in the iron and steel industry's spatial pattern.
Example: the decline in iron ore reserves in some regions has led to companies locating
production facilities in other regions with more abundant resources.
● Government Policies: Government policies have also played a significant role in shaping
the spatial pattern of the iron and steel industry.
Example governments may offer subsidies or tax breaks to attract iron and steel
producers to their regions, or impose environmental regulations that make certain regions
less attractive for production.
Conclusion:
The spatial pattern of the iron and steel industry in the world has changed due to various factors
such as shifting demand patterns, availability of raw materials, and advancements in technology.
The industry continues to evolve, and further changes are likely in the future.

Q4. Critically evaluate the various resources of the oceans which can be harnessed to meet
the resource crisis in the world. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Write about the resources of the oceans.
• Body: challenges and solution of the oceans resources.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

Introduction:
The oceans represent a vast source of potential resources that can be harnessed to address the
resource crisis facing the world. These resources include energy from waves, tides, and currents, as
well as minerals and biotechnology products derived from marine organisms. The sustainable
exploitation of these resources requires careful consideration of environmental impacts and
effective governance.
Body:
Resources of the oceans that can be harnessed :-
● Renewable Energy:
➢ The oceans are a significant source of renewable energy, particularly from offshore
wind and wave energy.
➢ The development of offshore wind turbines and wave energy converters has the
potential to meet a significant proportion of global energy needs.
➢ Challenges:- Like high cost of installation and the impact on marine ecosystems.
● Fishing and Aquaculture:

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 ➢ Fishing and aquaculture are essential sources of food and income for millions of
people worldwide.
➢ The oceans are home to a vast array of fish and shellfish species that can be
sustainably harvested or farmed.
➢ Challenges:- Overfishing, pollution, and climate change pose significant threats to
these resources. It is crucial to manage these resources sustainably to ensure their
long-term viability.
● Minerals:
➢ The oceans are also a potential source of minerals such as manganese, cobalt, and
nickel, which are essential for the production of high-tech devices such as
smartphones and electric vehicles.
➢ The extraction of these minerals from the ocean floor, known as deep-sea mining, is
a relatively new industry with significant environmental risks, such as habitat
destruction and the release of toxic chemicals.
● Biotechnology:
➢ The oceans are home to a vast array of unique organisms with potential applications
in biotechnology, including the development of new drugs and other products.
➢ Challenges :- The exploitation of these resources raises ethical and environmental
concerns, and there is a need for careful regulation and management to ensure their
sustainable use.
● Desalination:
➢ Freshwater resources become increasingly scarce in some parts of the world,
desalination of seawater has become a critical source of drinking water.
➢ Challenges:- Desalination is energy-intensive and can have adverse environmental
impacts.
Conclusion:
The oceans possess a wealth of resources that can be harnessed to address the resource crisis in
the world. There are significant challenges associated with their exploitation, including
environmental concerns, technical difficulties, and governance issues. A comprehensive and
sustainable approach is necessary to unlock the full potential of ocean resources while
safeguarding the health of the ocean ecosystem.

Q5. How does India see its place in the economic space of rising natural resource rich
Africa? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer
Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with India relations with Africa.
• Body: Discuss the economic space of rising natural resource-rich Africa.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.
Introduction:
India's relations with Africa have been traditionally strong, dating back to the days of India's
independence movement. With Africa's increasing importance as a strategic partner, India has
been keen to expand its presence and influence in the continent, including in the natural resource-
rich areas.
Body:
Economic space of rising natural resource-rich Africa:
Strategic partnership:
➢ India views Africa as a strategic partner and has been engaging with the continent on
multiple fronts, including economic, political, and social.
➢ India has been providing technical and financial assistance to African countries, with a
focus on infrastructure development, capacity building, and human resource development.
Natural resources:
➢ Africa is rich in natural resources, including minerals, oil, and gas. India, as a rapidly
growing economy, needs access to these resources to fuel its own growth.
➢ India has been investing in the exploration and development of natural resources in Africa.
Trade and investment:
➢ India is Africa's third-largest trading partner, and bilateral trade has been increasing
steadily.

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 ➢ India has been investing in various sectors in Africa, including agriculture, mining,
infrastructure, and energy.
Cooperation on regional and global issues:
➢ India and Africa have been cooperating on various regional and global issues, including
climate change, peace and security, and UN reforms.
➢ India has been supporting African countries in their efforts to achieve sustainable
development and has been advocating for a greater role for Africa in global governance.
People-to-people contacts:
➢ India has been promoting people-to-people contacts with Africa, including through
scholarships and training programs.
➢ This has helped in building goodwill and strengthening ties between India and Africa.
Conclusion:
India's engagement with Africa is expected to continue to deepen as it seeks to leverage the
continent's vast natural resources and explore new opportunities for economic growth and
development. Through partnerships and investments, India hopes to create a win-win situation for
both sides, while also promoting regional stability and cooperation.

Q6. Most of the unusual climatic happenings are explained as an outcome of the EL-Nino
effect. Do you agree? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with significant impacts on global weather patterns.
• Body: Discuss the unusual climatic happenings are explained as an outcome of the El-Nino
effect.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

Introduction:
El Nino is a climate phenomenon that results from the warming of sea surface temperatures in the
tropical Pacific Ocean. It can have significant impacts on global weather patterns, including
changes in rainfall and temperature extremes. Some people believe that many unusual climatic
events can be attributed to the El Niño effect.
Body:

Unusual climatic happenings are explained as an outcome of the El-Nino effect:

➢ During an El Nino event, changes in atmospheric circulation patterns can lead to changes
in global weather patterns, including changes in temperature and rainfall E.g In South
America, El Nino can cause heavy rainfall and flooding, damaging infrastructure and
crops.
➢ The El Nino effect can have a significant impact on weather patterns around the world,
including increased frequency of droughts, floods, and severe storms. E.g In the eastern
Pacific, El Nino can cause warmer ocean temperatures and changes in wind patterns,
leading to decreased upwelling of nutrients and reduced fish populations.
➢ El Nino events tend to occur irregularly, with varying frequency and intensity. Some years,
the El Nino effect may be more pronounced than others, while in other years, it may not be
present at all.
➢ Natural climate variability and human-induced climate change, can also contribute to
unusual climatic events, the El Nino effect is a recognized factor in shaping global weather
patterns. E.g In the southern United States, El Nino can cause an increased frequency
of severe storms and tornadoes.

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 ➢ El Nino effect and its impact on global climate is important for predicting and managing
weather-related risks, as well as developing strategies for adapting to a changing
climate.E.g In Southeast Asia and Australia, El Nino can cause droughts and wildfires,
leading to crop failures and water shortages.
Conclusion:
El Nino can help explain certain unusual climatic events, it is important to consider other factors,
such as natural climate variability and human-induced climate change. These factors can also play
a role in shaping weather patterns and contributing to extreme events. A comprehensive approach
that takes into account a range of factors is necessary to fully understand the complex dynamics of
Earth's climate system.

Q7. Why are the world‟s fold mountain systems located along the margins of continents?
Bring out the association between the global distribution of fold mountains and the
earthquakes and volcanoes. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Brief about fold mountains.
• Body: Discuss factors a ssociation between fold mountains, earthquakes and volcanoes
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a summary of the answer.

Introduction:
Fold mountains are formed by the folding and uplift of rock layers due to tectonic plate movements.
The collision of two continental plates, or the subduction of an oceanic plate beneath a continental
plate, can create compressional forces that cause the Earth's crust to buckle and fold, resulting in
the formation of fold mountains.
Body:
The world's fold mountain systems are located along the margins of continents due to the
following reasons:
● Plate Tectonics: Fold mountains are formed by the collision or convergence of tectonic
plates. When continental plates collide, the intense compressional forces cause the crust to
buckle, fold, and uplift, leading to the formation of mountain ranges along the plate
boundaries. E.g Himalayas.
● Subduction Zones: Subduction zones, where one tectonic plate is forced beneath another,
are common along continental margins. This process can result in the formation of volcanic
arcs and accompanying fold mountains.
● Crustal Thickening: Along continental margins, the accumulation of sedimentary layers,
coupled with the collision of plates, leads to the thickening of the continental crust. This
thickened crust is less buoyant, causing it to rise and form fold mountains.E.g The Andes.
● Compression and Uplift: The compression and uplift of rock layers occur along the
margins of continents due to the convergence of tectonic plates. These forces cause the
crust to fold and uplift, creating mountainous topography.

● Association Between Fold Mountains and Earthquakes: Fold mountains are formed as a
result of the collision of two tectonic plates. The movement and collision of these plates can
cause earthquakes, as the plates grind against each other or one plate is forced beneath the
other in a process known as subduction.
Examples: The Himalayas are located at the boundary between the Indian Plate and the
Eurasian Plate and are one of the most seismically active regions in the world.

192
 ● Association Between Fold Mountains and Volcanoes: Volcanoes are another common
feature associated with fold mountains. As tectonic plates collide, one plate is often forced
beneath the other, a process known as subduction. This can cause the mantle to melt,
creating magma that rises to the surface and forms volcanoes. The Andes Mountains.
Examples are located along the western coast of South America and are associated with the
subduction of the Nazca Plate beneath the South American Plate. This subduction has led
to the formation of a chain of volcanoes, including the active Cotopaxi and Tungurahua
volcanoes in Ecuador.
Conclusion:
The concentration of fold mountain systems along the margins of continents can be attributed to
plate tectonics, which is the theory that explains the movement of the Earth's lithosphere. The
interaction of tectonic plates can lead to the formation of mountain ranges, as well as earthquakes
and volcanoes. The study of these natural phenomena is crucial for understanding the geologic
processes that shape the Earth's surface and for developing strategies to mitigate the potential
hazards associated with earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Q8. Explain the formation of thousand of islands in Indonesian and Philippines

archipelagos. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Explain what archipelago is.
• Body: Explain the geography and physical processes in the formation of these islands of the
region.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a summary of the answer.

Introduction:
The Indonesian and Philippine archipelagos are renowned for their thousands of islands. The
formation of these islands is a result of complex geological processes that have taken place over
millions of years. Understanding the mechanisms behind the formation of these islands is crucial
for developing strategies to mitigate the potential hazards associated with natural phenomena in
these regions.
Body:
Plate Tectonics and Volcanism:
➢ The Role of Plate Tectonics : The islands of Indonesia and the Philippines are located
along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region characterized by active volcanoes and frequent
earthquakes. This region is also the site of intense plate tectonic activity, where several
tectonic plates collide and interact with each other.
➢ The Subduction Process: The islands of Indonesia and the Philippines are situated on the
boundaries of several tectonic plates, including the Eurasian Plate, the Philippine Sea Plate,
the Pacific Plate, and the Indo-Australian Plate. The interaction of these plates has created
a zone of subduction, where the denser oceanic plate is forced beneath the less dense
continental plate.

➢ Volcanic Eruptions: The subduction of the oceanic plate results in the melting of rock in
the Earth's mantle, which generates magma that rises to the surface and forms volcanoes.
Over time, repeated volcanic eruptions can result in the accumulation of volcanic material,
which can build up and eventually create new islands.

193
Sedimentation and Erosion:
➢ Role of Sedimentation: Volcanism is the formation of islands in the Indonesian and
Philippine archipelagos that is also influenced by sedimentation and erosion. Rivers that
flow into the ocean bring large amounts of sediment, which can accumulate on the ocean
floor and form shallow banks or reefs.
➢ Island Formation: The accumulation of sediment and organic material can lead to the
formation of islands. Erosion plays a role in shaping the landscape of the archipelagos, as
the forces of wind and water can erode the volcanic material and expose underlying rock
formations.
Sea Level Changes:
➢ The Impact of Sea Level Changes: Sea level changes can contribute to the formation of
islands in the Indonesian and Philippine archipelagos. During times of low sea level, areas
that are currently submerged can become exposed, creating new land masses.
➢ Rising Sea Levels: Conversely the rising sea levels can submerge areas that were once
above water, resulting in the disappearance of islands. The interplay of these various
geological processes has contributed to the formation and evolution of the Indonesian and
Philippine archipelagos, resulting in the diverse and complex island systems that exist
today.
Conclusion:
The formation of islands in the Indonesian and Philippine archipelagos is the result of several
geological processes, including plate tectonics, volcanism, sedimentation, erosion, and sea level
changes. These processes have interacted over millions of years to create the diverse and complex
island systems that exist today. Knowledge of these processes is critical for understanding the
natural phenomena associated with the islands and for developing strategies to mitigate potential
hazards.

Q9. Tropical cyclones are largely confined to the South China Sea, Bay of Bengal and Gulf
of Mexico. Why? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Brief about tropical cyclones.
• Body: Discuss the importance of geographic limitation.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with significant tropical cyclones.

Introduction:
Tropical cyclones, also known as hurricanes or typhoons, are severe weather events that can cause
devastating damage to coastal communities. These storms are largely confined to specific regions of
the world, including the South China Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Gulf of Mexico.
Body:

Important of geographic limitation:

● Warm sea surface temperature [SST]: Tropical cyclones require warm ocean waters of at
least 26.5°C to develop and strengthen. The South China Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Gulf of
Mexico have warm sea surface temperatures throughout the year, making them ideal
regions for the formation and strengthening of tropical cyclones.
● Coriolis force: The Coriolis force is a result of the Earth's rotation and causes the air to
circulate around low-pressure systems, such as tropical cyclones. The Coriolis force is

194
 stronger near the poles and weaker near the equator. The circulation of air around a low-
pressure system is weaker in the tropics, limiting the development of tropical cyclones.
● Low vertical wind shear: Vertical wind shear refers to the change in wind speed and
direction with height. High vertical wind shear can inhibit the development of tropical
cyclones. The South China Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Gulf of Mexico have relatively low
vertical wind shear, which allows tropical cyclones to develop and strengthen.
● Monsoonal winds: The monsoon winds in the Bay of Bengal and the South China Sea are
characterized by seasonal changes in direction and strength. These winds create favorable
conditions for the formation and strengthening of tropical cyclones during the summer and
fall seasons.
● Bathymetry: The shape and depth of the ocean floor can also influence the development of
tropical cyclones. The Bay of Bengal and South China Sea have shallow coastal waters,
which allow for greater mixing of the ocean water and a more favorable environment for
tropical cyclone formation.
Conclusion:
The geographic confinement of tropical cyclones to the South China Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Gulf of
Mexico is due to a combination of factors, including warm ocean temperatures, favorable
atmospheric conditions, and the specific geography of these regions. While these storms can cause
significant damage, continued research and preparedness measures can help to minimize the
impact on coastal communities.

Q10. Whereas the British planters had developed tea gardens all along the Shivaliks and
lesser Himalayas from Assam to Himachal Pradesh, in effect they did not succeed
beyond the Darjeeling area. Explain.[150 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with the history of tea cultivation.
• Body: Discuss the planters had developed tea gardens all along the Shivaliks and lesser.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

Introduction:
Tea cultivation has a long history in India, with British planters introducing the crop in the mid-
19th century. Tea gardens were established along the Shivaliks and lesser Himalayas from Assam
to Himachal Pradesh; the planters did not succeed in replicating the success of Darjeeling
elsewhere.
Body:

195
Reasons for this disparity:
● Geography:
➢ The geography of the Darjeeling region plays a crucial role in the success of tea
cultivation. The area is situated at an altitude of 2,000 to 7,000 feet above sea
level, which provides the perfect conditions for growing high-quality tea.
➢ The cool temperatures and frequent mists create a unique microclimate that is
ideal for tea plants. Shivalik and lesser Himalayas have a different geography, with
lower elevations and warmer temperatures that are less suitable for tea cultivation.
● Soil:
➢ The soil in the Darjeeling region is also conducive to tea cultivation. The area has a diverse
range of soils, including sandy loam, clay, and red soil, which are ideal for growing different
varieties of tea.
➢ The soil in the Shivaliks and lesser Himalayas is less diverse and often contains high
levels of acidity, which can be detrimental to tea plants.
● Labor:
➢ Another factor that contributed to the success of tea cultivation in Darjeeling was the
availability of skilled labor.
➢ The local population had a long history of working in the tea industry, and many were
trained in the art of tea plucking and processing.
➢ The labor force in other regions was less experienced and often had to be trained from
scratch.
● Marketing:
➢ The success of tea cultivation in Darjeeling can also be attributed to effective marketing
strategies.
➢ The British planters were able to market Darjeeling tea as a premium product, commanding
high prices in international markets.
Conclusion:
British planters established tea gardens along the Shivaliks and lesser Himalayas from Assam to
Himachal Pradesh; they were unable to replicate the success of Darjeeling. The geography, soil,
labor force, and marketing strategies of the region all played a crucial role in the success of tea
cultivation in Darjeeling. These factors provide valuable insights into the challenges and
opportunities associated with tea cultivation in other regions of the world.

2013
Q1. Bring out the causes for the formation of heat islands in the urban habitat of the
world.[100 Words, 5 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Define Urban Heat Island effect.
• Body: Enlist and describe the causes of Urban Heat Island effect
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer.

Introduction:
The Urban Heat Island [UHI] effect refers to the observable occurrence of markedly higher
temperatures in urban regions relative to adjacent rural areas, primarily as a result of human
activities. Typically, the mean temperature in urban heat islands can be 8 to 10 degrees Celsius
higher than in the surrounding rural zones.

196
Body:

Causes of Urban Heat Island effect:

● Heat-absorbing surfaces: Urban areas have a higher percentage of heat-absorbing
surfaces, such as concrete and asphalt, which absorb and retain heat during the day and
release it at night, leading to a warmer environment. E.g In downtown areas Phoenix,
Arizona, and Las Vegas, Nevada, the prevalence of concrete and asphalt results in
temperatures that can be up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit (5.6 degrees Celsius) warmer
than surrounding rural areas.
● Reduced vegetation: Urban areas have fewer trees and vegetation compared to rural areas,
which results in less shade and reduced cooling effects through evapotranspiration.E.g The
lack of trees and green spaces in urban areas like New York City's concrete jungle can
result in temperatures up to 7 degrees Fahrenheit (3.9 degrees Celsius) warmer than
surrounding suburban or rural areas.
● Human activities: The use of air conditioning, industrial activities, and transportation in
urban areas, generates heat and contributes to the overall increase in temperature. E.g Los
Angeles, California, the use of air conditioning, industrial activities, and
transportation contributes to the urban heat island effect, with downtown areas
reaching temperatures 5-10 degrees Fahrenheit (2.8-5.6 degrees Celsius) warmer than
surrounding areas.
● Urban geometry: The compact, dense, and high-rise buildings in urban areas create an
urban canyon effect that traps heat, reduces air circulation, and increases temperature. E.g
Tokyo, Japan, the compact and high-rise buildings can create an urban canyon effect
that traps heat and reduces air circulation, leading to temperatures up to 14 degrees
Fahrenheit (7.8 degrees Celsius) warmer than surrounding rural areas.
● Climate change: Urban Heat Island effect is expected to worsen with climate change due to
the rising global temperatures, which can further exacerbate the heat island effect. E.g
Phoenix, Arizona, projected to see increases in the number of days with temperatures
over 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius) due to rising global temperatures.
Conclusion:
UHI can cause various environmental and health issues and its causes include anthropogenic
heat, changes in land use, and lack of vegetation. Mitigating UHI can be achieved through
strategies such as green infrastructure and urban planning.

Q2. What do you understand about the theory of continental drift? Discuss the prominent
evidences in its Support.[100 Words, 5 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Explain the continental drift theory.
• Body: List the evidence in support of the theory.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer.

197
Introduction:
The theory of continental drift was proposed by Alfred Wegener in 1912, but it was not widely
accepted until the 1950s. Continental drift suggests that the Earth's continents were once joined
together as a single landmass called Pangaea, which began to break apart around 200 million
years ago, and have been moving away from each other since then.
Body:
Theory based on evidence:

●Fit of the continents: The coastlines of many continents fit together like puzzle pieces,
suggesting that they were once part of a larger landmass. Example:- South American and
African plate.
● Fossil evidence: Fossils of the same species have been found on opposite sides of oceans,
indicating that the continents were once connected. Example :- Gold reserves in South
America and Western Africa.
● Rock formations: Similar rock formations and mountain ranges have been found on
different continents, suggesting that they were once part of the same landmass.
● Paleoclimate evidence: The distribution of ancient glacial deposits and coal deposits
suggest that these areas were once in different climatic zones, which would only make
sense if the continents were in different locations at that time.
● Plate tectonics: The theory of plate tectonics, which explains the movement of the Earth's
crust, provides a mechanism for how the continents could have moved over time.
Conclusion:
The prominent evidence in support of the theory include the matching coastlines, similar geological
formations on opposite sides of oceans, and the distribution of fossils across different continents.

Q3. The recent cyclone on the east coast of India was called “Phailin”. How are tropical
cyclones named across the world? Elaborate.[100 Words, 5 Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Brief about how tropical cyclones can be named tropical cyclones.
• Body: Discuss tropical cyclones are named across the world.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a summary of the answer.

Introduction:

198
Tropical cyclones are named differently across the world based on a set of guidelines established by
regional meteorological agencies. The naming conventions aim to provide quick identification of
storms, assist in communication, and raise awareness among people in the affected areas.
Body:

Tropical cyclones are named across the world:

● Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea: The India Meteorological Department [IMD] names tropical
cyclones in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. They use a list of names that rotate
every few years and include names contributed by 13 countries.
● North Atlantic: The National Hurricane Center [NHC] in the United States names tropical
storms and hurricanes in the North Atlantic basin. They use a list of names that rotate
every six years, and each year, they use names starting from the next letter in the alphabet,
Like Q, U, X, Y, and Z.
● Eastern North Pacific: The Eastern North Pacific basin includes the coastal areas of North
and Central America. The naming of tropical cyclones in this basin is also done by the NHC,
using the same system as in the North Atlantic.
● Western North Pacific: The Western North Pacific basin is the most active tropical cyclone
basin in the world. The naming of tropical cyclones in this basin is done by the Japan
Meteorological Agency [JMA], using a list of names that rotate every six years.
● South West Indian Ocean: The tropical cyclones that form in the South West Indian Ocean
are named by the Regional Specialized Meteorological Center in La Réunion. They use a
list of names that rotate every four years.
Conclusion:
Different parts of the world use distinct systems for naming tropical cyclones. Some of the
commonly used methods include using alphabetical lists of names, assigning numbers, and using
names based on the year or the location of the storm. The naming systems help in efficient
tracking, forecasting, and management of tropical cyclones.

Q4. What do you understand about the phenomenon of temperature inversion in

meteorology? How does it affect the weather and habitants of the place?[100 Words, 5
Marks]
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Define the temperature inversion.
• Body: Temperature inversion can have several significant effects on weather and the

199
 environment.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with serious impacts on the environment.

Introduction:
Temperature inversion is a meteorological phenomenon where the normal decrease in temperature
with height is reversed, and the temperature increases instead of decreasing. In other words, the
air near the surface of the Earth is cooler than the air above it.
Body:

Temperature inversion can occur due to several factors such as radiation cooling, subsidence of
air, advection of warm air, and the presence of an inversion layer.
Significant effects on weather and environment:
● Air pollution: Temperature inversion can trap pollutants in the lower atmosphere and
cause smog and poor air quality, leading to respiratory problems.
● Fog: Temperature inversion can lead to the formation of fog and low clouds due to the
cooling of moist air near the surface. According to an IQAIR report Delhi will rank 4th
position in the world in 2022.
● Temperature: Temperature inversion can cause significant temperature differences in the
air at different altitudes, which can affect temperature-sensitive crops and cause damage.
● Flight Disruptions: Temperature inversion can cause turbulence and affect aircraft
operations due to the difference in temperature and pressure.
● Delay in Weather Events: Temperature inversion can delay or prevent the formation of
thunderstorms, leading to drought conditions.
Conclusion:
Temperature inversion is a complex meteorological phenomenon that can have serious impacts on
the environment and the people living in an area. Its effects can range from air pollution to extreme
weather conditions and can be challenging to predict and manage. Therefore, it is essential to
understand temperature inversion and its impacts to ensure better preparedness and management
of its effects.

Q5. Major hot deserts in the northern hemisphere are located between 20-30 degrees north
and on the western side of the continents. Why? [100 Words, 5 Marks]
Answer:

200
Approach:
• Introduction: Brief about location of hot desert.
• Body: Discuss about the various factors of geographical location.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with the formation of a hot desert.

Introduction:
Hot deserts are typically found in the subtropical regions of the world, with the majority located in
the northern hemisphere. Interestingly, they are mostly located between the latitudes of 20-30
degrees north and on the western side of the Continents.
Body:

Various factors of geographical location:

● Global Wind Patterns: The Earth's atmospheric circulation pattern, also known as the
Hadley Cell, plays a crucial role in the formation of deserts. The hot, moist air rises at the
equator and travels towards the poles, then cools and descends around 20-30 degrees
north and south of the equator, creating arid conditions in those regions. E.g Azizia, Libya.
● Rain Shadow Effect: Mountains on the western side of the continents act as barriers to
moisture-laden winds. When these winds encounter mountains, they rise, cool, and release
their moisture as rainfall. As a result, the eastern side of the mountains receives abundant
rainfall, while the western side is left relatively dry, creating desert conditions. E.g
Atacama.
● Ocean Currents: The major hot deserts are located adjacent to cold ocean currents that
have a significant influence on their climate. The cold ocean currents cool the adjacent
land, leading to stable atmospheric conditions that limit precipitation and create desert-like
conditions. E.g Humboldt Current , west Australian Current.
● Continental Drift: The location of hot deserts in the northern hemisphere is also the result
of continental drift. Millions of years ago, the continents were located differently than they
are today. The current arrangement of the continents favors the formation of hot deserts in
the areas mentioned above. E.g Gobi desert.
Conclusion:
The location of major hot deserts in the northern hemisphere is a result of complex interactions
between the atmospheric circulation patterns, ocean currents, and land configurations. This
unique combination of factors results in a specific set of climatic conditions that are conducive to
the formation and maintenance of hot deserts in these regions. Understanding these factors is
crucial for predicting and managing the impacts of desertification and global climate change.

Q6. Bring Out the causes for more frequent landslide in the Himalayas than in western
Ghat. [100 Words, 5 Marks]
Answer:

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Approach:
• Introduction: Brief about the Landslide .
• Body: Discuss about the Causes for more frequent landslides in the Himalayas than in the
Western Ghats.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a summary of the answer.
Introduction:
Landslides are a common natural phenomenon in mountainous regions, causing significant
damage to property and human lives. The Himalayas and Western Ghats are two prominent
mountain ranges in India. The Himalayas witness more frequent landslides than the Western
Ghats.
Body:
Causes for more frequent landslides in the Himalayas than in the Western Ghats:
● Geology: The Himalayas are geologically young mountains formed by the collision of the
Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. They have steep slopes, and their rocks are less stable
and prone to landslides. The Western Ghats are older mountains formed by volcanic
activity, and their slopes are gentler and more stable.
● Topography: The Himalayas have a rugged topography with deep valleys and steep
hillsides that are prone to landslides. The Western Ghats have a more gentle topography
with fewer steep slopes.
● Climate: The Himalayas experience heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which
saturates the soil and increases the likelihood of landslides. The Western Ghats receive
rainfall throughout the year, but the intensity is much lower than that in the Himalayas.
● Vegetation: The Himalayas have sparse vegetation due to the high altitude and cold
climate, which results in less soil stability and a higher risk of landslides. The Western
Ghats have dense vegetation cover, which helps to stabilize the soil and reduce the risk of
landslides.
● Human activity: Human activities such as deforestation, construction of roads, and
mining have destabilized the slopes in the Himalayas and increased the risk of landslides.
In the Western Ghats, human activity is less intense and has had a lesser impact on the
stability of the slopes.
Conclusion:
The Himalayas and Western Ghats are two prominent mountain ranges in India. Although both
regions experience landslides, the Himalayas witness more frequent landslides than the Western
Ghats. The major causes of this difference include geological factors such as the steepness of the
Himalayan slopes, tectonic activity, and heavy rainfall.

Q7. There is no formation of deltas by rivers of the western Ghat. Why?[100 Words, 5 Marks]
Answer:
Approach:
• Introduction: Brief about formation of Deltas.
• Body: Discuss about the Western Ghats no deltas due to several reasons.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a summary of the answer.
Introduction:
Deltas are landforms that occur at the mouth of rivers where they meet a body of standing water,
sea or lake. They are typically formed when the river deposits sediment as it flows into the standing
water, creating a fan-shaped pattern of land.
Body:
Western Ghats no deltas due to several reasons:
● Steep Gradient: The rivers of the western Ghats have a steep gradient, which means that
they flow rapidly and do not deposit sediment as readily as rivers with a gentler gradient.
● Short Distance: The distance between the western Ghats and the Arabian Sea is relatively
short, so the rivers do not have enough time to deposit sediment and form a delta.
● Rocky Terrain: The terrain around the rivers in the western Ghats is often rocky and hilly,
which makes it difficult for sediment to accumulate and form a delta.
● Wave Action: The Western Ghats are exposed to high wave action, which means that the
sediment deposited at the mouth of the rivers is quickly eroded by the waves. This leads to
the formation of beaches instead of deltas.

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Conclusion:
The absence of deltas in Western Ghats rivers could be due to the steep gradient of the rivers, their
relatively short length, and the fact that they often flow into estuaries rather than directly into the
sea. Other factors such as high rainfall, fast-flowing water, and steep topography may also
contribute to the lack of delta formation in this region.

Q8. Do you agree that there is a growing trend of opening new sugar mills in the southern
state of India? Discuss with justification.[100 Words, 5 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Write the findings of the Report.
• Body: Discuss the major problems and reasons for the shift of the sugar industry in North
India towards southern India.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with benefits of the sugar industry futuristic approach.

Introduction:
India is a major player in the global sugar trade and produced 33 million metric tons of sugar in
2017/2018. The country's sugar production has been steadily increasing and is expected to
surpass Brazil as the world's top sugar producer. This surplus has led to struggles for mills to pay
fair wages to workers, as seen in the 2014-2015 season and recent reports from the Indian Sugar
Mills Association.
Body:
The major problems facing the sugar industry in North India can be summarized as follows:
● Low yield of sugarcane and a short crushing season.
● Fluctuating production trends, which lead to market instability.
● High cost of production due to factors such as rising fuel and labor costs.
● Regional imbalances in distribution, with some areas facing a shortage of sugarcane and
others experiencing a surplus.
● Issues with the Fair and Remunerative Price [FRP] and State Advised Price [SAP] policies,
which have caused disputes between farmers and mill owners.
● Lack of modernization and poor management practices in some mills.
● Sugar content in northern sugarcane is less compared to southern states.
The reasons for the shift of the sugar industry towards southern India are:
● Better climatic conditions in coastal states that provide uniform temperature and irrigation
facilities throughout the year.
● Higher yields, longer crushing season, and high sucrose content due to the coastal tropical
conditions and moderating effect of the ocean.
● Proximity to ports at Chennai and Kochi that create additional opportunities for business
expansion.
● Well-developed cooperative sector, machinery, and management of industries.
● Availability of alternative business models and opportunities for diversification and value
addition in southern states.
Wayforward:
● The sugar sector needs capital, policy measures, and structural changes.
● Technological upgrades are needed in old mills to improve efficiency in Uttar Pradesh and
Bihar.
● Revenue-sharing formulas should be introduced in all states to ensure farmers receive a
share in profits.
● Exports should be encouraged when domestic production exceeds consumption.
● Mills should be allowed to produce more alcohol, a higher value product with massive
industrial demand.
● Production costs can be reduced through proper utilization of by-products and increasing
ethanol production.

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Conclusion:
While the opening of new sugar mills in southern India may lead to increased sugar production
and economic growth, it is important to consider the potential environmental impact of such
development. The government should also ensure that adequate measures are in place to
safeguard the interests of farmers and prevent the exploitation of labor in the sugar industry. While
the trend of opening new sugar mills in the southern state of India may have its benefits, it should
be carried out in a sustainable and equitable manner.

Q9. Analyze the factor for highly decentralized cotton textile industry in India.[100 Words,
5 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with data or Report.
• Body: Discuss Some of the key factors that have contributed to this decentralized nature of
the industry are discussed below.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

Introduction:
In 202, India stood as the third highest exporter of raw cotton globally, accounting for about 10.2%
of the global exports. India’s total cotton exports are estimated to be 4 million bales in 2021-22
[COCPC Report]. India has a highly decentralized cotton textile industry with a large number of
small-scale units spread across the country.
Body:
Some of the key factors that have contributed to this decentralized nature of the industry
are discussed below:
● Historical Legacy: The cotton textile industry in India has a long history, dating back to
ancient times. The industry has traditionally been decentralized, with handloom weaving
being practiced in homes and small workshops in different parts of the country.E.g The
handloom weaving industry in Varanasi.
● Availability of Raw Materials: India has a large and diverse cotton-growing region, which
provides easy access to raw materials for textile production. This has allowed small-scale
textile units to thrive in different parts of the country. E.g Cotton growing regions in India
like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Punjab provide easy access to raw materials for textile
production
● Cheap Labor: The availability of cheap labor is another significant factor for the
decentralized nature of the cotton textile industry. Labor-intensive operations like spinning,
weaving, and dyeing can be done with relatively low levels of capital investment, making it
possible for small-scale units to operate profitably. E.g The city of Tirupur in Tamil Nadu
is known for its knitwear industry and employs a large number of workers.
● Government Policies: The Indian government has implemented policies to promote small-
scale industries, including the cotton textile industry. This has led to the establishment of a
large number of small-scale units across the country. E.g Technology Upgradation Fund
Scheme (TUFS) provides subsidies and financial assistance for technology upgrades
and modernization of textile units.
● Market Dynamics: The Indian textile market is highly fragmented, with a large number of
small players catering to different segments of the market. This has created opportunities
for small-scale units to thrive in niche segments of the market. E.g The city of Surat in
Gujarat is known for its synthetic textile industry, while the city of Bhilwara in
Rajasthan is known for its production of handloom textiles.
Conclusion:
The decentralization of the cotton textile industry in India is influenced by factors such as the
availability of raw materials, the low capital investment required, and the prevalence of traditional
textile practices. Presents challenges such as lack of economies of scale and inadequate
infrastructure.

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Q10. With growing scarcity of fossil fuels, atomic energy is gaining more and more
significance in India. Discuss the availability of raw material required for the
generation of atomic energy in India and in the world.[200 Words, 10 Marks]
Answer

Approach:
• Introduction: Start your answer with the importance of fossil fuel.
• Body: Discuss about Uranium and Thorium reserves in India and world and their
Challenges.
• Conclusion: Summary of the answer with futuristic approach.

Introduction:
India currently has a total installed nuclear power capacity of 6,780 MW, which accounts for
around 2% of the country's total power generation capacity. The government has set a target to
increase this capacity to 22,480 MW by 2031, with several new nuclear power plants under
construction or planned for construction.
Body:

The increasing scarcity of fossil fuels has led to a greater reliance on nuclear energy worldwide, and
India is no exception. It is crucial to examine the availability of raw materials required for the
generation of atomic energy both in India and globally.
Uranium reserves:
● India has significant reserves of uranium, a key raw material required for the generation of
atomic energy. The country is estimated to have around 70,000 tonnes of uranium,
primarily located in the states of Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, and Meghalaya.
● The uranium reserves in India are considered to be of medium to high-grade, and efforts are
being made to increase uranium exploration and mining in the country. Australia, Canada,
and Kazakhstan have large uranium reserves and are major producers of uranium,
supplying it to countries such as the USA, France, and China.
Thorium reserves:
● India has significant reserves of thorium, another raw material used in the generation of
atomic energy. India is estimated to have around 25% of the world's thorium reserves,
primarily located in the beach sands of the southern states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and
Odisha.
● The country's vast thorium reserves offer significant potential for the development of a
thorium-based nuclear power program.

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Challenges in raw material availability:
● India has significant reserves of uranium and thorium, there are challenges associated with
the availability of these raw materials.
● Uranium mining in India faces several regulatory and environmental challenges, which have
resulted in delays and a slower pace of exploration and mining.
● India's thorium-based nuclear program is still in the research and development stage, and
there are challenges associated with the commercial-scale deployment of thorium-based
reactors.
Conclusion:
India has significant reserves of uranium, it still relies on imports to meet its requirements.
Moreover, the production of nuclear energy raises concerns regarding the safe disposal of nuclear
waste. Therefore, the development of alternative sources of energy remains a pressing need.

Q11. It is said that India has substantial reserves of shale oil and gas, which can feed the
needs of the country for a quarter century. However, tapping of the resource does not
appear to be high on agenda. Discuss critically the availability and issues involved.
[200 Words, 10 Marks].
Answer:

Approach:
• Introduction: Brief about significant reserves in India.
• Body: Discuss availability and issues involved in tapping of shale oil and gas in India.
• Conclusion: Conclude your answer with issues involved in tapping.

Introduction:
India is believed to have significant reserves of shale oil and gas, which could potentially meet the
country's energy needs for a quarter-century. Despite the potential, the tapping of these resources
does not seem to be high on the agenda.
Body:
Availability of Shale Oil and Gas in India:
● India is estimated to have significant reserves of shale oil and gas, primarily located in the
Cambay, Krishna-Godavari, and Cauvery basins. These reserves are estimated to be around
96 trillion cubic feet of gas and 6.1 billion barrels of oil.
● The extraction of shale oil and gas requires advanced drilling technologies, which are
expensive and complex to deploy. The commercial viability of shale gas and oil extraction in
India largely depends on the availability of cost-effective and efficient extraction
technologies.
● India has significant reserves of coal bed methane [CBM], which can be extracted using
similar techniques as shale gas.
● India has the fifth-largest CBM reserves in the world, with an estimated reserve of 2,700
billion cubic meters.

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Issues Involved in Tapping Shale Oil and Gas Reserves in India:
Despite having substantial reserves, tapping shale oil and gas reserves in India has been slow due
to various reasons, including regulatory issues, environmental concerns, and lack of
infrastructure:-
● The regulatory framework for shale gas extraction is not well developed, and the
environmental impact of fracking and drilling operations is not fully understood.
● This has led to concerns about potential groundwater contamination and seismic activity.
● The lack of infrastructure, including pipelines, storage facilities, and processing plants, is
a significant challenge in the development of shale gas and oil industry in India. This lack of
infrastructure has also contributed to the slow progress of CBM extraction in the country.
● The cost of shale gas and oil extraction in India is also relatively high compared to other
countries due to the lack of economies of scale, regulatory challenges, and lack of
infrastructure.
Conclusion:
India has substantial reserves of shale oil and gas, there are several challenges that need to be
addressed to effectively tap into these resources. These include environmental concerns, the high
cost of extraction, and the need for advanced technology and infrastructure. As such, a critical
evaluation of the feasibility of shale oil and gas extraction is necessary before making any decisions
on their exploitation.

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