Section B
[1 Marks]
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(A) ii and iv
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(B) iii and iv
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(C) iii and i
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(D) i and iv
Explanation: The correct pairs are iii and iv. Nageshwar is located in Gujarat and Kalibanga is in Rajasthan, making this pair correctly matched based on the known locations of these Harapan sites.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Mauryas, Shakas and Guptas
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(B) Guptas, Shakas and Mauryas
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(C) Kushans, Mauryas and Guptas
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(D) Mauryas, Guptas and Shakas
Explanation: The correct sequence is 'Mauryas, shakas and guptas'. The Mauryan Empire was established first, followed by the Gupta Empire, and then the Shaka rulers. It is important to note the timeline of each dynasty, with the Mauryas reigning from approximately 322 to 185 BCE, the Guptas from around 320 to 550 CE, and the Shakas coming into prominence later.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Yashti
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(B) Anda
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(C) Chhatri
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(D) Harmika
Explanation: The harmika in the Sanchi Stupa is a square railing or fence located atop the dome (anda), symbolizing a sacred enclosure or the abode of the gods.
[1 Marks]
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(A) bodhgya
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(B) kushinagar
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(C) sarnath
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(D) lumbini
Explanation: The Buddha gave his first sermon at Sarnath, where he taught the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path after attaining enlightenment.
[1 Marks]
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(A) france
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(B) portugal
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(C) Russia
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(D) spain
Explanation: Durate Barbosa belonged to Portugal, as he was a notable figure during the Age of Exploration, during which Portugal played a significant role in maritime exploration.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Amir khusro was the prominent one from this sect.
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(B) Nath sect mostly came from artism groups.
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(C) They were the devotional people from north india .
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(D) The expressed themselves in common language.
Explanation: The statement 'Amir Khusro was the prominent one from this sect.' is not correct because Amir Khusro was primarily associated with the Sufi tradition and is not known as a prominent figure within the Nath sect, which was more related to the traditions of yoga and mysticism.
[1 Marks]
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(A) This name was derived by colin meckenzie, an antiquarian.
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(B) This name was given by krishnadeva raya to vijaynagar
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(C) This name was devoted to vithhla and virupaksha deities.
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(D) This name was derived from the local goddess named pampadev.
Explanation: This name was derived from the local goddess named pampadev. The city of Hampi, which was part of the Vijayanagara Empire, is believed to have been named after this local deity.
[1 Marks]
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(A) I-a,II-b,III-c,IV-d
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(B) I-a,II-c,III-b,IV-d
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(C) I-b,II-a,III-c,IV-d
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(D) I-d,II-c,III-b,IV-a
Explanation: The correct matches are: Polaj (Land always being cultivated), Parauti (Land fallow for three to four years), Chachhar (Land fallow a year), and Banjar (Land uncultivated for five years). Each type of land is defined by its cultivation status and duration of fallow, which corresponds to the features listed.
[1 Marks]
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(A) III, IV, I, II
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(B) III, I, IV, II
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(C) I, IV, III, II
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(D) II, IV, I, III
Explanation: The correct chronological order is III, IV, I, II. The Permanent Settlement in Bengal was introduced in 1793, followed by the First Revenue Settlement in Bombay Deccan around the early 19th century (around 1820). The Santhal Rebellion occurred in 1855-56, and the Riots in Deccan villages took place during the late 19th century, particularly from 1875 onwards.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Bahadur shah
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(B) Wajid ali shah
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(C) Birjis qudar
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(D) Shah alam
Explanation: The correct answer is Wajid Ali Shah, the Nawab of Awadh, who was a significant figure in the 1857 revolt. He was deposed and exiled by the British, who wrongly assumed he was an unpopular ruler. His leadership played a crucial role in the uprising.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Rajkumari amrit kaur
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(B) Begum aizuz rasul
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(C) Hansa mehta
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(D) Malti choudhary
Explanation: Hansa mehta
is the correct option because she advocated for justice and equality for women without seeking special reservations or separate electorates in the constituent assembly, focusing on their rightful place in society instead.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Both(A) and (R) are correct and (r) is the correct explanation of (A).
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(B) Both(A) and (R) are correct and (r) is not the correct explanation of (A).
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(C) (R) is correct and (A) is not correct
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(D) (A) is correct and (R) is not correct
Explanation: Both(A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A) because the Lahore session of the Congress in 1929 was indeed significant due to the passing of the resolution for 'poorana swaraj', which marked a pivotal moment in India's struggle for complete independence.
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The correct option is (A) Zarathustra, who is indeed from Iran (Persia). All other options are incorrect as Kungzi (Confucius) is from China, Socrates is from Greece, and Mahavira is from India.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Nageshwar
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(B) Amri
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(C) Khetri
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(D) Chanhudaro
Explanation: 'Ganeshwar Jodhpur culture' is associated with the Khetri region, known for its distinct archaeological findings related to the Harappan civilization. The other options do not correspond to this specific cultural designation.
[1 Marks]
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(A) The early vedic tradition was compiled between BCE 1000 to 1600 CE
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(B) The rigveda consists of hymns in praise of agni , indra and soma
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(C) Many vedic ideas were found in upnishads.
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(D) The rajasuya and ashvamedha yajnas were performed by kings
Explanation: The statement 'The early vedic tradition was compiled between BCE 1000 to 1600 CE' is incorrect because the early Vedic texts, including the Rigveda, were composed between approximately 1500 to 1200 BCE, not after 1000 BCE. The other statements are accurate descriptions of the Vedic tradition.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Kanpur - Tantya tope
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(B) Uttar Pradesh - Gonoo
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(C) Bihar - Kunwar singh
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(D) Madhya pardesh - Shahmal
Explanation: The correct answer is Bihar - Kunwar Singh. Kunwar Singh was a prominent leader in the 1857 revolt from Bihar, making this pair correctly matched. The other options either misattribute historical figures or locations.
[1 Marks]
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(A) II , I and IV
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(B) II , III and IV
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(C) II , III and I
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(D) II , III and I
Explanation: The correct options are II, III, and IV. Ain-i-Akbari, written by Abu'l-Fazl ibn Mubarak, details the administrative structures of the Mughal Empire. Manzil-abadi refers to the imperial households, Sipah-abadi covers the military and civil administration, and Mulk-abadi pertains to the fiscal aspects of the empire. Option I is incorrect because Ain-i-Akbari was written in Persian, not Arabic.
[1 Marks]
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(A) K.M munshi
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(B) Jawahr lal nehru
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(C) Mahatma gandhi
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(D) Rajendra prasad
Explanation: The correct answer is Jawahr lal. He proposed the design of the national flag to symbolize unity and peace, featuring three horizontal stripes of saffron, white, and green.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Antonio Monserrate
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(B) Francios bernier
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(C) Domingo paes
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(D) Peter Mundy
Explanation: Domingo Paes was a Portuguese Jesuit and missionary who traveled to India in the 16th century, making him the correct option among the listed travellers from Portugal.
Section C
[3 Marks]
Answer: Mohenjodaro exemplifies an advanced urban settlement of the Indus Valley Civilization, showcasing meticulous urban planning. The city's layout features a grid of streets aligned with precise cardinal directions, demonstrating a systematic approach to city design. Furthermore, the presence of sophisticated drainage systems and sanitary facilities indicates an advanced understanding of hygiene. Public buildings, such as the Great Bath, suggest a focus on communal activities and governance. Mohenjodaro also had residential areas marked by uniform brick houses, highlighting the importance of order and organization in urban living.
[3 Marks]
Answer: Buddhism, founded by Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha, emphasizes the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path as its core teachings. The Four Noble Truths articulate the nature of suffering (Dukkha), the origin of suffering (Samudaya), the cessation of suffering (Nirodha), and the path leading to the cessation of suffering (Magga). The Eightfold Path provides practical guidance, consisting of Right Understanding, Right Intent, Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood, Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, and Right Concentration. These teachings advocate for ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom as a means to achieve enlightenment (Nirvana), freeing individuals from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (Samsara). Buddhism encourages compassion and mindfulness, promoting a way of life that fosters harmony and understanding.
[3 Marks]
Answer: Jainism is an ancient Indian religion known for its specific teachings regarding non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), and asceticism. Central to Jain philosophy is the concept of Ahimsa, which extends to all living beings, advocating for a lifestyle that avoids harm. Jainism emphasizes the importance of truthfulness in thought, word, and action, prompting followers to lead a life of honesty and integrity. Additionally, the principle of Aparigraha encourages non-attachment to material possessions, fostering a sense of detachment from worldly desires. Jain teachings stress the significance of karma and the cycle of birth and rebirth, urging adherents to attain liberation (moksha) through right knowledge, right faith, and right conduct (the Three Jewels). The practice of meditation and self-discipline plays a crucial role in achieving spiritual purity and enlightenment.
[3 Marks]
Answer: Kabir, a pivotal figure in the Bhakti Movement, is renowned for his profound philosophical insights that transcended societal divides. He emphasized a direct personal connection with the divine, advocating for a relationship with God that bypassed rituals and dogmas prevalent in organized religions. Kabir's poetry and couplets, rich in metaphors and simplicity, conveyed deep spiritual truths, making them accessible to the masses. Additionally, he critiqued caste discrimination and religious orthodoxy, promoting unity and devotion to one God. His universal teachings resonate with the essence of the Bhakti Movement, which emphasized love, devotion, and equality, and rejected the social hierarchy that often divided communities. Thus, Kabir's influence remains a cornerstone of this spiritual renaissance that sought to democratize access to spirituality and foster communal harmony.
[3 Marks]
Answer: Revenue from land was the backbone of the Mughal Empire's economy. The empire implemented a comprehensive land revenue system, known as the zamindari system, which involved local landlords collecting taxes from peasants. This system allowed the Mughal rulers to enjoy a steady flow of income. For instance, Akbar introduced the 'Jizya,' and 'Ain-i-Dahsala' revenue calculation methods which enhanced agricultural revenue. This revenue funded the empire's military, administrative costs, and infrastructure projects, sustaining and expanding the empire. Additionally, increased agricultural productivity due to innovations and better irrigation techniques led to higher tax revenues. Examples like the flourishing trade in textiles and the export of goods, funded by agricultural surplus, showcase how land revenue was pivotal for the empire’s economic stability and growth.
[3 Marks]
Answer: In Mughal rural society, village panchayats played a crucial role in local governance and community administration. These councils, composed of respected elders and representatives, were responsible for adjudicating disputes, maintaining law and order, and collecting taxes. They acted as intermediaries between the villagers and the Mughal authorities, ensuring that the needs and grievances of the local population were communicated effectively. Additionally, panchayats oversaw agricultural practices and resource management, contributing to the overall welfare of the village. Their decisions upheld traditional customs, thereby fostering social cohesion and stability in rural areas.
[3 Marks]
Answer: The rebels of 1857, often referred to as the First War of Indian Independence, showcased a vision of unity among diverse groups against British colonial rule. They included soldiers from various backgrounds, such as Hindus and Muslims, who united under the common cause of freedom. For instance, the syncretic leadership of figures like Bahadur Shah II, who was a Mughal Emperor, symbolized the collective spirit transcending religious divides. Another example is the participation of Rani Lakshmibai, who rallied support from different communities, emphasizing a united front. The proclamation of the rebels calling for the end of British rule and the restoration of Indian sovereignty further illustrated their commitment to unity, aiming to inspire various sects to join forces for independence.
[3 Marks]
Answer: During the debates in the Constituent Assembly, several arguments were made in favor of a strong Centre. Firstly, a strong Central government was seen as necessary to maintain national unity and integrity in a diverse country like India. The framers of the Constitution worried that too much autonomy could fuel regional disparities and discontent. Secondly, a strong Centre could effectively manage and coordinate policies across states, ensuring uniformity in governance. Moreover, given the historical context of colonial rule, a powerful Centre was essential to safeguard against the threats of disintegration and communalism. Lastly, proponents argued that a centralized authority is more capable of dealing with external threats and maintaining law and order throughout the country. Thus, these arguments collectively shaped the vision of a strong Centre.
Section D
[8 Marks]
Answer: The inscriptions of the Maurya period, primarily written in Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts, were deciphered largely due to the efforts of scholars like James Prinsep in the 19th century. Prinsep's breakthrough came when he recognized that the inscriptions contained phonetic elements, leading to the identification of basic letters and their sounds. Additionally, bilingual inscriptions, such as the Edicts of Asoka, provided critical context, enabling researchers to compare known languages with the ancient scripts. This deciphering process was significant as it unveiled the rich history, governance, and philosophies of the Mauryan Empire. However, there are several limitations to epigraphy. Firstly, many inscriptions are either eroded or incomplete, which complicates interpretation and understanding. Secondly, context is often lost—many inscriptions lack accompanying historical records or archaeological evidence, making it difficult to accurately interpret their significance. Additionally, the linguistic evolution over time can alter meanings, creating challenges for modern scholars. Finally, the regional variations in script and dialect can lead to misinterpretations. Therefore, while epigraphy offers invaluable insights into ancient cultures, these limitations must be recognized to avoid overreaching conclusions.
[8 Marks]
Answer: Historians gather information about the Maurya period through various sources, including archaeological evidence, ancient texts, inscriptions, coins, and accounts from foreign travelers. The Arthashastra, attributed to Kautilya, is a crucial text that offers insights into the political and economic system of the empire. Archaeological sites, like Pataliputra, reveal urban planning and structural forms of governance. The Mauryan Empire, established by Chandragupta Maurya, had a well-developed administrative structure. The emperor was the supreme ruler and authority, supported by a council of ministers. Provinces were governed by viceroys or governors, ensuring local administration aligned with imperial policies. Below the provincial level, local officials managed cities and villages, handling taxation, justice, and law enforcement, facilitating central control. This intricate system allowed for a unified governance model while accommodating local customs. The efficiency of the Mauryan administration, characterized by a bureaucracy that included spies and bureaucratic divisions, illustrated the empire's capability in governance and law enforcement, vital for the maintenance of order and economic stability. Furthermore, the Maurya Empire's emphasis on trade and infrastructure, such as roads and waterways, further demonstrates its advanced administrative capabilities.
[8 Marks]
Answer: The sacred centre of the Vijayanagar Empire, primarily located at Hampi, served as the religious and cultural heart of the empire. At its core was the Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which showcased exquisite architecture with intricate carvings, high towers, and a bustling temple complex. The presence of numerous other temples, such as the Vittala Temple with its iconic stone chariot, reflected the religious diversity and patronage in the region. The sacred centre was not only a focal point for worship but also a site of annual festivals, drawing pilgrims and visitors from far and wide. Its strategic location facilitated trade and cultural interactions, reinforcing the empire's significance as a power hub. The artistic expressions in sculpture and architecture further demonstrated the sophisticated craftsmanship of the Vijayanagar period, highlighting an amalgam of native and Dravidian architectural styles. The sacred landscape, with its numerous water tanks and step wells, also emphasized the importance of water in religious rituals, showcasing the empire's advanced engineering. Overall, the sacred centre embodied the spiritual, cultural, and economic dimensions that defined the Vijayanagar Empire, leaving a lasting legacy in Indian history.
[8 Marks]
Answer: Mahanavmi Dibba, located in Hampi, stands as a brilliant example of Vijayanagara architecture and its intricate ritual practices. This grand platform, built during the reign of Krishna Deva Raya, embodies the grandeur of the empire. Architecturally, it features a multi-tiered structure made of stone with elaborately carved pillars, showcasing the detailed craftsmanship of the period. The Dibba served as a venue for significant events, especially during the Navaratri festival, where rituals dedicated to Goddess Durga were performed. The expansive platform allowed for large gatherings and facilitated public participation in the religious ceremonies. Additionally, the arrangement of spaces reflects a deep connection between the physical structure and spiritual practices, highlighting the significance of the rituals conducted here. The layout, including the sanctum and various adjacent structures, underlines the emphasis on creating an accessible space for devotees. The integration of water tanks for ablutions further emphasizes the importance of purity in rituals, aligned with the worship activities that took place at the site. Overall, Mahanavmi Dibba exemplifies a harmonious blend of architecture and ritual functionality, establishing it as a cultural and spiritual epicenter in the Vijayanagara Empire.
[8 Marks]
Answer: The 'Salt Satyagraha' initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930 marked a pivotal movement against the British colonial rule in India. It began with the iconic Dandi March, where Gandhi and his followers marched 240 miles to produce salt from seawater, defying the British salt laws. This act of civil disobedience resonated deeply across India, inspiring a collective response. Thousands joined the movement, leading to widespread protests and boycotts against British goods. The campaign transcended regional and class boundaries, mobilizing diverse segments of society, including peasants, urban workers, and women. For example, in areas like Gujarat and Bihar, people organized their own salt marches. The Salt Satyagraha attracted international attention, symbolizing Indian unity and resistance. Ultimately, the movement laid the foundation for the larger Quit India Movement in 1942, uniting the country against the colonial regime. Gandhi's strategy showcased the power of non-violent resistance and became a cornerstone of India’s struggle for independence, proving that collective action could challenge and dismantle oppressive systems.
[8 Marks]
Answer: The Non-cooperation Movement, launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920, marked a significant turning point in India's struggle for independence. It aimed to resist British rule through nonviolent means and encouraged Indians to withdraw from British institutions, including schools, courts, and government offices. This movement united people from various backgrounds, fostering national consciousness. For instance, the boycott of British goods led to the flourishing of indigenous industries, particularly khadi, strengthening self-reliance. Furthermore, the movement saw mass protests and demonstrations, which took many by surprise and caused anxiety within the British administration, leading to the arrest of thousands of participants. The movement reached its peak in 1921-22 with significant participation from peasants, workers, and the middle class. This broad-based resistance deeply unsettled the British Raj, showcasing the collective strength of the Indian populace. While the movement was ultimately suspended after the violence at Chauri Chaura in 1922, its impact was profound. For the first time since 1857, it exemplified a unified Indian front against colonial rule. The resulting agitation foreshadowed subsequent movements demanding independence, highlighting a shift in the power dynamics between the British rule and Indian aspirations. Therefore, the Non-cooperation Movement significantly challenged the foundations of British rule in India.