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33 UP (M) - 2301-English Model Answer
33 UP (M) - 2301-English Model Answer
MODEL ANSWER
UPPSC-GENERAL STUDIES
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SECTION – A
Approach:
* Start writing introduction/answer by describing the Indus Valley Civilization.
* Discuss the extent of IVC in Uttar Pradesh.
* Write a suitable conclusion.
Answer: The Indus Valley Civilization
(IVC), also known as the Harappan Civilization,
was one of the most advanced and earliest
civilizations of the ancient world. It flourished Hulas
in the northwestern regions of the Indian Mandi
Sonauli
subcontinent, including parts of modern-day Alamgirpur
Pakistan and India, from approximately 2600
BCE to 1500 BCE.
2. Discuss about the ancient republic states that were present in Uttar Pradesh.
(Answer in 125 words) 8
Approach:
* Give a brief introduction of ancient republic states of Uttar Pradesh.
* Explain different republics of Uttar Pradesh during ancient period.
* Conclude in brief by mentioning their impact on culture and tradition of Uttar Pradesh and working etc.
Answer: Uttar Pradesh, located in the northern part of India, witnessed developments in political systems from the
Rigvedic era. One interesting feature of this system is that it includes ancient traces of republic forms of governance like
the institutions of Sabha, Samiti, and Vidath, mentioned in the Rigvedic texts. During the Mahajanapada, these republic
states flourished competing with several monarchial states. Uttar Pradesh was home to several republic states, which were
independent and self-governing.
3. Describe the rise of Buddhism and identify major Buddhist sites with respect to Uttar Pradesh.
(Answer in 125 words) 8
Approach:
* Start your answer by mentioning the rise of Buddhism in Uttar Pradesh.
* Discuss the major sites of Uttar Pradesh which are associated with Buddhism.
* Write a suitable conclusion.
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4. Describe the emergence of Awadh as a regional power during the post Mughal Era.
(Answer in 125 words) 8
Approach:
* Give a brief introduction to the conditions of Awadh during the post Mughal era.
* Illustrate the rise of Awadh as a regional power.
* Explain the factors that favored its rise.
Answer: Awadh, also known as Oudh, emerged as a significant regional power during the post-Mughal era in India.
The Mughal Empire had been in decline and various smaller states began to assert their independence and power. Awadh
was one such state that rose to prominence.
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Approach:
* Briefly describe Kushinagar and its valuable past.
* Discuss the significance of the region as a pilgrimage site.
* Summarise the answer highlighting the current development in the region.
Answer: Kushinagar is a town and a historical place located in northeastern Uttar Pradesh. The present Kushinagar is
identified with Kusavati (in the pre-Buddha period) and Kushinara (in the post-Buddha period).
Approach:
* Give a brief description of Purvanchal region of Uttar Pradesh.
* Mention various folk dances of the region.
* Summarise the answer highlighting the significance of folk dances.
Answer: The state of Uttar Pradesh has a rich tradition of performing arts including music and dance from ancient
times. The state is considered as the land where a major part of Bharat Muni’s Natyashastra was compiled. Purvanchal,
a geographical region in eastern Uttar Pradesh, is among the most ancient and culturally rich regions of India. It enjoys a
rich heritage and culture including folk songs and folk dances.
7. Discuss ‘Adopt a heritage scheme’. Identify the heritage sites in Uttar Pradesh under this scheme.
(Answer in 125 words) 8
Approach:
* Briefly explain what is ‘Adopt a heritage scheme’?
* Mention the heritage sites in UP under the scheme.
* Discuss the objectives and challenges associated with the scheme.
* Summarise the answer giving suggestions to overcome the challenges.
Answer: The ‘Adopt a Heritage: Apni Dharohar, Apni Pehchaan’ scheme is an initiative of the Ministry of Tourism
in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the Archaeological Survey of India. The government of Uttar Pradesh
adopted the scheme for developing tourism amenities at Heritage Monuments and Archaeological sites spread across the
state to make them tourist friendly.
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Suggestions:
m The monument which does not attract many visitors and does not have cultural/religious sensitivity can serve as a
place for increasing local engagement.
m Conservation activities must be ensured to be carried out by professionals only.
m Industrial houses can support the meaningful conservation of heritage buildings such as use of equipment that
releases less noxious gases that corrode marble buildings.
Adopting a Heritage is a well-conceived initiative and by leveraging Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), this would
help in providing the basic amenities. Monument mitras can help citizens understand why monuments matter by earmarking
CSR funds for research and development.
8. ‘The revolt of 1857 broke the socio-religious boundaries in Uttar Pradesh.’ Explain.
(Answer in 125 words) 8
Approach:
* Start writing answer with a general introduction of the revolt of 1857.
* Discuss how this movement breaks the socio-religious boundaries.
* Substantiate your points with examples.
* Give a brief conclusion.
Answer: The Revolt of 1857, also known as the Indian Mutiny or the First War of Indian Independence, was a
significant event in the history of India. It broke out in Meerut in May 1857 and quickly spread to other parts of the country,
including Uttar Pradesh, which was then known as the United Provinces of Agra and Oudh.
One of the major consequences of the revolt was that it broke the socio-religious boundaries that existed in Uttar
Pradesh. The revolt was led by sepoys, or Indian soldiers, who were mostly Hindus and Muslims. They were joined by
people from all walks of life, including peasants, artisans, and traders breaking down traditional caste and class boundaries.
9. Briefly discuss the land revenue system of Uttar Pradesh under the British administration.
(Answer in 125 words) 8
Approach:
* Briefly introduce the land revenue systems of Uttar Pradesh during the British rule.
* Discuss the pros and cons of these systems.
* Conclude with critical analysis of these systems.
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10. Write a note on women’s participation from Uttar Pradesh in Indian Freedom Struggle.
(Answer in 125 words) 8
Approach:
* Give a general introduction to women’s participation from U.P.
* Discuss some women freedom fighters from U.P.
* Conclude concisely.
Answer: During the Indian independence movement, women from Uttar Pradesh played a critical role in mobilizing
the masses. They participated in rallies, marches, and protests against British rule. Prominent leaders like Sarojini Naidu,
Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit, and Sucheta Kriplani were from Uttar Pradesh and were at the forefront of the movement. They
inspired and encouraged other women to join the struggle for independence.
Here are some notable women from Uttar Pradesh who played an active role in the Indian freedom struggle:
m Rani Laxmi Bai: She was the Queen of Jhansi. She led the revolt of 1857 in Jhansi and Gwalior. She was a fierce
warrior and got martyred at the age of only 31. The British general Huge Rose called her ‘Man among the Mutineers’.
m Jhalkari Bai: She played a significant role in the revolt of 1857 by leading the Durgadal of Rani Laxmibai. She
risked her own life to save the queen from being captured by the British.
m Begum Hazrat Mahal: She took charge of the rebellion and led her troops to fight against the British. Though the
rebellion was not successful, her contribution to the freedom struggle was significant.
m Sarojini Naidu: She was known as the “Nightingale of India”, a poetess. Her poems inspired many Indians to join
the freedom struggle. She was also the first Indian woman to become president of the Indian National Congress
m Sucheta Kriplani: She was a prominent freedom fighter, a social activist and the first woman Chief Minister of Uttar
Pradesh. Sucheta Kriplani actively participated in the Quit India Movement in 1942 for which she was imprisoned.
m Kamala Nehru: She was the wife of Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister. She played an active role in
the Indian independence movement.
m Bimla Rani: She was a freedom fighter who participated in the Quit India movement in 1942. She was arrested and
imprisoned for two years for her role in the movement.
m Durgavati Devi (Durga Bhabhi): Durga Bhabhi’s real name was Durgavati Devi. She was born on 7 October 1907
in Shahzadpur village of Kaushambi district of Uttar Pradesh. She was married to Bhagvati Charan Vohra, a famous
revolutionary bomb expert. She was a major ally of the freedom fighters. After the death of Lala Lajpat Rai, Bhagat
Singh planned to kill Saunders.
Thus, it could be seen that women freedom fighters of Uttar Pradesh shouldered critical responsibilities of India’s
struggle for freedom. They held public meetings, organized picketing of shops selling foreign alcohol and articles, sold
Khadi and actively participated in National Movements. They bravely faced the baton of the police and went to jail.
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11. Discuss the agricultural practices and settlement patterns in the Gangetic plains during the Vedic period.
(Answer in 200 words) 12
Approach:
* Give a general introduction to the gangetic plains of vedic time.
* Discuss agricultural methods practiced during the Vedic period.
* Conclude concisely.
Answer: The Gangetic Plain during the Vedic period (1500-600 BC) was an important center of agricultural activity
and human settlement. Vedic literature provides a detailed account of the agricultural practices and settlement patterns
prevalent during that time. The Gangetic Plain was endowed with fertile alluvial soil, abundant water resources, and favorable
climatic conditions, which made it an ideal location for agriculture and settlements.
Agricultural Practices:
m The Rig Vedic Aryans were pastoral people, but when they got permanently settled in North India, they began to
practice agriculture.
m Shifting agriculture was practiced and fire was used to burn down forest cover and the patch of land thus cleared,
was then sown.
m The main crop grown was yava or barley, besides the main crop, wheat, cotton and oilseeds were also grown.
m The Rig Vedic people used wooden ploughs (phala, langala, and ‘sira’).
m The Vedic god Indra is also described as Urvarajit (winner of fertile fields), and there are also references to Kshetrapati
(guardian deity of agricultural fields).
m With the knowledge and use of iron during the later Vedic period, they were able to clean forests and bring more
lands under cultivation.
m The earliest literary references to the use of iron in the Indian sub-continent are found in the Yajuraveda.
Settlement Practices:
m The early Vedic Aryans lived in the area known as sapta-sindhu, meaning area of seven rivers. This area largely
covered the northwestern part of India up to the river Yamuna. Gradually moving eastward, they came to occupy
eastern U.P. (Kosala) and north Bihar (Videha) during the Later Vedic period.
m The settlement pattern in the Gangetic Plain during the Vedic period was primarily rural. The Vedic people lived in
small villages or settlements called Grama.
m These settlements were usually located near a source of water, such as a river or a stream. The Vedic people also
built fortified cities or towns called pura, which served as administrative centers.
The development of agriculture and the use of iron in the latter Vedic era led to more organized settlements as we see
from the traces of different cities in the Gangetic area. These cities were working as trade nodes and were established on
popular trade paths.
12. ‘The Ashokan pillars are the best examples of Mauryan architecture available today.’ Write a note on the
Ashokan Pillar in Sarnath and its significance.
(Answer in 200 words) 12
Approach:
* Briefly explain the Mauryan architecture.
* Mention the features of Ashokan Pillars found in Uttar Pradesh.
* Describe the Ashokan Pillar of Sarnath.
* Summarise the answer by mentioning the significance of Ashokan pillar of Sarnath.
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13. How did the teachings of Tulsidas help in reducing the social evils of their time in Uttar Pradesh?
(Answer in 200 words) 12
Approach:
* Discuss in brief the life of Tulsidas.
* Mention the works of Tulsidas.
* Discuss his teachings along with related social subjects.
* Summarise the answer mentioning the significance of his teachings.
Answer: Goswami Tulsidas was born in Rajpur village in the Banda district in 1523 AD. He was a contemporary of
Akbar and the Mewar king Pratap. He was the most prominent saint poet of the Saguna Bhakti sect. He composed the
Ramcharitamanas, praising and describing the life of Rama, an incarnation of Vishnu.
Works of Tulsidas:
The works of Tulsidas, like Ramcharitmanas, are majorly about Sri Ram, except for Krishna Gitavali and Parvati
Mangal. His major long works include Dohavali, Kavitta Ramayana, Gitavali, Vinay patrika, and Krishnavali. His shorter
works include Hanuman Bahuk, Janki Mangal and Parvati Mangal, etc.
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14. Write a note on the various types of crafts found in Uttar Pradesh along with those which received Geographical
Indication tags.
(Answer in 200 words) 12
Approach:
* Briefly explain the position of various crafts of Uttar Pradesh.
* Mention those crafts which received GI tags in Uttar Pradesh.
* Discuss government initiatives.
* Summarise the answer highlighting the significance of craft.
Answer: Uttar Pradesh is known for its ancient and diverse crafts. These were majorly seen in the ancient and medieval
period when artisans organised themselves into guilds known as Shreni during the Gupta period. The present contribution
of handicrafts to the state’s economy is significant. Handicraft exports from Uttar Pradesh contribute 44% to the total
handicraft exports from the country.
15. What were the objectives and result of the ‘EKA Movement’? Give a brief note on Oudh Rent (Amendment)
Act 1921.
(Answer in 200 words) 12
Approach:
* Describe the timeline and aim of the Eka movement.
* Mention the reasons, methods used and major events that took place during ‘EKA movement’.
* Conclude with the outcomes of the movement along with its significance.
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Methods used:
m Religious symbols: A hole, which represented the river Ganga was dug in the ground and filled with water, a priest
was brought in to preside over, and the assembled peasants vowed that they would pay only recorded rent but pay
it on time,
m They will not leave when ejected,
m Refusal to perform forced labor,
m The peasant would give no help to criminals,
m Peasants would abide by the decisions of the panchayat.
But soon this movement found its own grassroot leader in Madari Pasi, who was not satisfied with the principle of
non-violence of Congress and Khilafat leaders, consequently, severe repression followed which bought an end to the Eka
Movement by March 1922.
16. ‘Mughal architecture is a perfect synthesis of Hindu, Islamic and Central Asian culture.’ In the light of this
statement, give a brief account of the UNESCO acclaimed world heritage sites in Uttar Pradesh.
(Answer in 200 words) 12
Approach:
* Write a brief introduction about Mughal architecture.
* Mention the key features of Mughal architecture.
* Discuss in detail the UNESCO world heritage sites of Uttar Pradesh.
Answer: The Mughal emperors, who ruled over India from the 16th to the 19th centuries, were great patrons of art and
architecture. The architecture under them marked a striking revival of Islamic architecture in northern India. Under their
patronage, Persian, Indian, and various provincial styles were fused to produce works of unusual quality and refinement.
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Taj Mahal:
m The Taj Mahal is an iconic Mughal mausoleum located in Agra.
m It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz. The construction of the Taj Mahal was
completed within a period of 17 years from 1631 to 1648 AD.
m The Taj Mahal is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture and is renowned for its white marble
facade, intricate carvings, and geometric patterns.
m It was inscribed on the list of World Heritage Sites in 1983.
Agra Fort:
m It is a massive historical fort built out of red sandstone in the city of Agra.
m It was built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century and served as the residence of the Mughal emperors for several
generations. The Agra Fort is a remarkable example of Mughal military architecture and features several palaces,
mosques, and audience halls.
m It was inscribed on the list of World Heritage Sites in 1983.
Fatehpur Sikri:
m It is a city, which is bounded on three sides by a wall 6 km long, fortified by towers, and pierced by nine gates,
includes a number of impressive edifices of secular and religious nature that exhibit a fusion of prolific and versatile
Indo-Islamic styles.
m It was the first planned city of the Mughals to be marked by magnificent administrative, residential, and religious
buildings comprised of palaces, public buildings, mosques, and living areas for the court, the army, the servants of
the king and an entire city.
m It is known as the “city of victory”, it was made the capital by the Mughal emperor Akbar. Among the most famous
structures of the city are the Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza, the Tomb of Salim Chisti, and the Panch Mahal.
Mughal architecture is a unique blend of various architectural styles and cultural traditions, that reflect the richness and
diversity of Indian culture. The UNESCO-acclaimed world heritage sites in Uttar Pradesh are some of the finest examples
of Mughal architecture, and they serve as a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of the Mughal dynasty.
17. Varanasi is not just a city of Uttar Pradesh but also carries the cultural identity of India. Discuss.
(Answer in 200 words) 12
Approach:
* Give a brief introduction of Varanasi.
* Historical significance- show how Varanasi is related to the cultural identity of India.
* Tales related to the city.
* Conclude suitably.
Answer: Varanasi is a city in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Situated on the banks of the river Ganga, it is a sacred city
that sits at the Centre of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain thought.
During the ancient period, the kingdom of Kashi was in the region around its capital Varanasi, bounded by the Varuna
rivers in the north and the Asi River in the south which gave Varanasi its name.
Varanasi is a place of learning, a Centre for literature and the arts. It is believed to be one of the oldest continuously
inhabited cities in the world. Right through its existence, Varanasi has flourished, all whilst retaining its unique identity.
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Religious Significance:
m The Land of Kashi is the ultimate pilgrimage for Hindus from ages. It is believed that one who is graced to die at
Varanasi gets salvation. Vaishnavism and Shaivism have co-existed harmoniously in Varanasi.
Literary Significance:
m Varanasi is also associated with the promotion of spiritualism, mysticism, Sanskrit, yoga, and the Hindi language
as well as honored authors such as the ever-famous novelist Prem Chand and Tulsi Das, the famous saint-poet who
wrote Ram Charit Manas.
Cultural Significance:
m Aptly called the cultural capital of India, Varanasi has provided the right platform for all cultural activities to flourish.
Many exponents of dance and music have come from Varanasi. Ravi Shankar, the internationally renowned Sitar
maestro and Ustad Bismillah Khan, (the famous Shehnai player) are all sons of the blessed city or have lived here
for a major part of their lives.
Mythological Significance:
m Varanasi is the city of Lord Shiva, and the place where he and the goddess Parvati founded the universe. It is believed
to be the site where Lord Rama did penance, after his victory over the demon-king Ravana, and may also have been
a battlefield in the Mahabharata, where the god Krishna set fire to an imposter Krishna.
m If the boon of life starts at Dashashwamedh Ghat then it ends at Manikarnika. A unique combination of life and
death and the desire for salvation attract the pilgrims.
The paradox of Varanasi is highlighted as it is a lively city, with something or other happening somewhere or the other
at all hours. There is also a deep sense of peace, serenity, and spirituality all around.
18. Describe the modern architecture in Uttar Pradesh that developed under the Nawabs of Awadh and the British.
(Answer in 200 words) 12
Approach:
* Give a general introduction to the architectural development in Uttar Pradesh.
* Discuss in detail the architecture built under Nawabs of Awadh and British with examples.
* Conclude concisely.
Answer: The modern architecture in Uttar Pradesh that developed under the Nawabs of Awadh, and the British is a
fascinating blend of Indo-Islamic and European styles, reflecting the unique cultural and historical influences of the region.
19. Give an account of the contribution of the revolutionaries of Uttar Pradesh in the Indian freedom struggle?
Write a brief note on at least two of them.
(Answer in 200 words) 12
Approach:
* Give a general introduction about revolutionaries’ activity in Uttar Pradesh.
* Discuss the contribution of revolutionaries in Indian freedom struggle.
* Explain in detail the role of two revolutionaries from Uttar Pradesh.
Answer:
Uttar Pradesh played a significant role in India’s freedom struggle, with several revolutionaries emerging from the state.
These revolutionaries were driven by a strong sense of patriotism and were prepared to give their lives to secure India’s
independence. They had put in endless efforts to end British rule and motivated a generation of Indians to join the fight for
freedom.
Contribution of revolutionaries:
m Spreading patriotism: The two newspapers of Kanpur, ‘Pratap’ and ‘Prabhu’ were holistically engaged in
publishing the ideals of nationalism.
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20. Discuss the key features of the “Uttar Pradesh tourism policy 2022”. Analyse the challenges faced by the state
in implementing the policy.
(Answer in 200 words) 12
Approach:
* Give a general introduction about the tourism potential of Uttar Pradesh.
* Explain key targets and objectives of the tourism policy.
* Discuss the challenges faced by Uttar Pradesh in implementing the policy.
* Write a concise conclusion.
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