Section B
[1 Marks]
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(A) S.N. Roy
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(B) Daya Ram Sahni
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(C) Alexander Cunningham
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(D) John Marshall
Explanation: Alexander Cunningham is the correct answer because he was appointed as the first Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India in 1861, establishing the organization and its practices for archaeological research in India.
[1 Marks]
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(A) IV-b,II- d,III-c,I- a
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(B) II-a,I- b, IV- d ,III-c
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(C) I-d, II-c III-a,IV b
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(D) I-c, IV-a,III- b,II- d
Explanation: The correct matches are: I. Manda - d. Jammu, II. Rakhigarhi - c. Haryana, III. Nageshwar - a. Gujarat, IV. Kalibangan - b. Rajasthan. Therefore, the correct option is 'd c a b'. Manda is located in Jammu, Rakhigarhi in Haryana, Nageshwar in Gujarat, and Kalibangan in Rajasthan.
[1 Marks]
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(A) II, I, III and IV
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(B) IV, I, II and III
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(C) III, IV, I and II
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(D) I, III, II and IV
Explanation: The correct chronological order is II, I, III, IV. The End of the Mauryan Empire marked the beginning of a power vacuum that eventually led to the Beginning of Gupta rule. After the Guptas, the Pallavas rose in Tamil Nadu, followed by Harshavardhana's rise as a king of Kannauj, which occurred later.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Zarathustra
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(B) Lao-Tse-tung
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(C) Aristotle
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(D) Kang zi
Explanation: Aristotle is the correct answer because he was a seminal Greek philosopher and scientist, while Kang zi, Zarathustra, and Lao-Tse-tung are associated with other cultures and philosophical traditions.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Sarnath
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(B) Bodh Gaya
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(C) Sanchi
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(D) Amravati
Explanation: The correct answer is Sarnath, as it is historically recognized as the location where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Duryodhan
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(B) ghatotkach
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(C) bheeshama
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(D) abhimanyu
Explanation: The correct answer is Ghatotkach. He is the son of Bhima and Hidimba, who belonged to the Rakshasa clan. This context directly fits the clues provided in the question.
[1 Marks]
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(A) (A) is not true but (R) is true.
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(B) (A) is true but (R) is untrue.
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(C) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
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(D) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
Explanation: Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A). The sixth century BCE marked significant socio-economic and cultural developments in India, including the emergence of early states and the rise of new religions like Buddhism and Jainism, which contribute to its classification as a major turning point in early Indian history.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Andal
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(B) Mirabai
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(C) Karraikal Ammaiyar
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(D) Muktabai
Explanation: The correct option is Karraikal Ammaiyar. She was a prominent woman saint in the early Bhakti tradition, known for her devotion to Lord Shiva and her extreme ascetic practices in her pursuit of spiritual goals.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Establishment of the Gajapati Kingdom of Orissa
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(B) Emergence of Sultanates of Bijapur
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(C) Establishment of the Sultanates of Malwa
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(D) Rise of the Chalukyas in Karnataka
Explanation: The correct answer is 'Rise of the Chalukyas in Karnataka' because the Chalukyas were earlier rulers and their rise occurred before the establishment of the Vijayanagara Empire, making this statement incorrect in the context of contemporaries.
[1 Marks]
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(A) This empire was founded by the rulers of Saluva dynasty.
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(B) This empire became powerful after the death of Krishnadeva Raya.
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(C) The battle of Talikota proved disastrous for Vijayanagara empire
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(D) Their land revenue system was taken from Mansabdari system.
Explanation: The correct statement is 'The battle of Talikota proved disastrous for Vijayanagara empire.' This event marked a significant defeat for Vijayanagara in 1565, leading to the decline of their power, while the other options either misrepresent historical facts or are incorrect.
[1 Marks]
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(A) I-c ,II-a, III-b, IV-d
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(B) I-b, II-d, III-a, IV-c
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(C) I-a, II-c, III-d, IV-b
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(D) I-d, II-b, III-c, IV-a
Explanation: The correct matches are: I-c (Nicolo de Conti - Italy), II-a (Abdur Razzak - Persia), III-b (Duarte Barbosa - Portugal), IV-d (Afanasi Nikitin - Russia). Nicolo de Conti was an Italian traveler, Abdur Razzak hailed from Persia, Duarte Barbosa was from Portugal, and Afanasi Nikitin was from Russia.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Availability of labour
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(B) Abundance of land
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(C) Mobility of peasants
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(D) Availability of tractors
Explanation: The correct answer is 'Availability of tractors'. During the Mughal era, agriculture expansion was primarily driven by factors such as the mobility of peasants, abundance of land, and availability of labor. Tractors were not available at that time, thus this option does not correlate with the historical context of agricultural expansion in the Mughal state.
[1 Marks]
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(A) I-b, II-a, III-c, IV-d
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(B) I-c, II-a, III-d, IV-b
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(C) I-b, II-a, III-d, IV-c
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(D) I-d, II-c, III-b, IV-a
Explanation: The correct options are I-d, II-b, III-c, IV-a. 'Jama' refers to the total amount of revenue assessed (d), while 'Khet Batai' describes the process where crops are cut and divided equally after harvesting (c). 'Lang Batai' involves the division of fields at the time of sowing for revenue purposes (c). Finally, 'Hasil' is the actual amount collected (a).
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The correct pair is (C) Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya – Delhi because he is renowned as one of the most famous Sufi saints in India and his dargah is located in Delhi, which is widely visited by devotees.
[1 Marks]
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(A) William Hodge
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(B) George Chinray
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(C) Augustus Cleveland
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(D) Captain C
Explanation: The correct answer is Augustus Cleveland, who is known for proposing the 'Policy of Pacification' as a strategy to manage relations with the Paharias in 1770, aiming to reduce conflict and establish better governance in the region.
[1 Marks]
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(A) II, III, I and IV
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(B) II, IV, III and I
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(C) III, IV, I and II
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(D) I, II, III, and IV
Explanation: The correct chronological order is II, IV, III, and I. The Permanent Settlement in Bengal was introduced in 1793, followed by the Ryotwari settlement in the early 19th century. The Santhal Rebellion occurred in 1855-56, and the Limitation Law was passed later, in 1859. Therefore, the sequence is II (Starting of Permanent Settlement in Bengal), IV (Ryotwari settlement in Bombay Deccan), III (Santhal Rebellion), I (Limitation Law passed by the British).
[1 Marks]
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(A) Formation of the Drafting Committee
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(B) Commencement of the Constituent Assembly
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(C) Signing of Constitution by the Constituent Assembly.
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(D) Designing of the National Flag of India
Explanation: The correct answer is 'Signing of Constitution by the Constituent Assembly'. On this date, the Constituent Assembly formally adopted the Constitution of India, marking a significant milestone in India's transition to a sovereign democratic republic.
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The correct option is (C) Lucknow – Birjis Qadr. Birjis Qadr was a key leader during the Revolt of 1857 in Lucknow, while Kunwar Singh was primarily associated with Bihar and not Kanpur, Gonoo is not widely recognized in this context, and Nana Saheb's significant activities were mainly in Kanpur, not Singhbhum.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Swaraj
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(B) Sarvodaya
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(C) Boycott
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(D) Satyagraha
Explanation: The correct answer is 'Satyagraha,' which is a term coined by Gandhiji to describe his philosophy of non-violent resistance. Satyagraha emphasizes the power of truth and the need for passive resistance against injustice without resorting to violence.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Lord Ripon
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(B) Lord William Bentinck
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(C) Lord Wellesley
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(D) Lord Mountbatten
Explanation: The correct answer is Lord William Bentinck. He was the British Governor-General of India who implemented significant social reforms, including the abolition of the Sati system and allowed the remarriage of Hindu widows, while promoting western education.
[1 Marks]
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(A) Lala Lajpat Rai
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(B) Gopal Krishna Gokhale
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(C) Bipin Chandra Pal
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(D) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
Explanation: The correct answer is Gopal Krishna Gokhale. Gandhiji was greatly influenced by Gokhale's views on the importance of understanding India's socio-political conditions, which led him to travel and learn about the people and their issues.
Section C
[3 Marks]
Answer: Archaeologists have identified centres of craft production in the Harappan age through various methods, including excavations, material analysis, and the study of site distribution. Excavations at sites like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa revealed specialized workshops for bead-making, pottery, and metallurgy. The presence of tools and raw materials, such as semi-precious stones and copper, indicates areas dedicated to craft production. Additionally, the uneven distribution of certain artifacts across the region points to hubs of specialized craftsmanship that catered to trade both locally and with distant lands.
[3 Marks]
Answer: The Harappan civilization, known for its advanced urban planning, had a remarkably sophisticated drainage system. Each city featured a grid layout with houses built on platforms to prevent flooding. The drainage system included covered drains that ran alongside streets, constructed of brick, clay, and stone, which allowed for effective wastewater management. This not only maintained hygiene but also reflected the importance placed on cleanliness in Harappan society. The presence of wells and soak pits further enhanced the drainage network, showcasing the engineering prowess of the Harappans and their ability to adapt to their environment. Such meticulous planning indicates that drainage was prioritized, reflecting a level of civic responsibility unprecedented in their time.
[3 Marks]
Answer: In Jaina philosophy, karma is viewed as a fundamental force that influences the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). Each action, whether good or bad, creates karma that binds to the soul. The nature of a person's future births, including their circumstances and experiences, is determined by the cumulative karma accumulated from past lives. Good deeds lead to favorable rebirths, while bad actions can result in suffering and inferior rebirths. The ultimate goal in Jainism is to achieve liberation (moksha) from this cycle by purifying the soul and shedding all karma through right knowledge, right faith, and right conduct. Therefore, understanding how karma shapes one's existence is crucial in Jain teachings, influencing adherents to lead a life of compassion and self-discipline.
[3 Marks]
Answer: Colin Mackenzie played a pivotal role in rediscovering the ruins of Hampi in 1800. A British surveyor and antiquarian, he was tasked with mapping the Deccan plateau and stumbled upon Hampi's extensive ruins. Recognizing their historical and archaeological significance, Mackenzie meticulously documented the site through sketches and notes. His work was instrumental in raising awareness about these remnants of the Vijayanagara Empire, leading to further studies. Mackenzie also collaborated with local historians, which provided deeper insights into the cultural context of Hampi. His efforts laid the foundation for future archaeological work and preservation of the site, making Hampi a focal point for historians and visitors alike.
[3 Marks]
Answer: During the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, women were regarded as crucial assets in agrarian societies for several reasons. Firstly, their participation in agriculture was significant; women often engaged in planting, weeding, and harvesting crops, contributing to family sustenance and economic stability. Secondly, women managed household responsibilities, including food preparation and childcare, which allowed male members to focus on labor-intensive farming tasks. Additionally, women's traditional knowledge of plants and local farming techniques enhanced agricultural productivity. Furthermore, in many societies, women were involved in trade and barter, enhancing local economies and community resilience. Thus, their holistic contributions were pivotal for agrarian societies in promoting agricultural success and household management.
[3 Marks]
Answer: In the early nineteenth century, the Santhals began settling in the periphery of the Raj Mahal hills as part of a wider migration pattern driven by agricultural expansion and socio-economic aspirations. The region provided fertile land suitable for rice cultivation, which attracted these agrarian communities. The Santhals, being skilled farmers, utilized traditional farming techniques to cultivate crops effectively. Additionally, the hills offered natural resources, such as timber and medicinal plants, which were vital for their daily lives. The Santhals settled in small, self-contained villages that maintained their cultural identity while engaging in trade with neighboring communities. Their presence significantly impacted the demographic and cultural landscape of the region, leading to increased inter-community interactions and conflicts over land-use. Furthermore, the beginning of colonial rule during this period would later introduce new challenges regarding land rights and resource management, which shaped their settlement patterns.
[3 Marks]
Answer: During the revolt of 1857, rumours played a critical role in inciting discontent and mobilizing the masses against British rule. One of the key rumours was related to the new Enfield rifle, which was said to be greased with animal fat from cows and pigs, offending both Hindu and Muslim soldiers. This sparked outrage among sepoys, leading to widespread distrust and anger. Additionally, the rumour that the British planned to convert Indians to Christianity further inflamed religious sentiments. The rapid spread of these stories through oral communication, combined with existing grievances such as economic exploitation and social injustices, created a climate ripe for rebellion. Ultimately, these rumours acted as catalysts, unifying diverse groups towards a common cause - the fight against British oppression, culminating in the revolt. Thus, the power of rumours significantly influenced public sentiment and actions during the 1857 resistance.
[3 Marks]
Answer: The British were eager to acquire Awadh for several strategic and economic reasons. Firstly, Awadh was a fertile region, essential for agriculture and revenue generation, making it lucrative for the British. Control over Awadh would enhance British tax revenue and boost trade in cash crops. Secondly, its geographical location was pivotal as it served as a gateway to northern India, facilitating further territorial expansion. Additionally, the British aimed to consolidate their control over the Indian subcontinent by integrating Awadh into their colonial rule, eliminating the independent rule of the Nawabs. The annexation of Awadh in 1856 was justified by the British under the pretext of misgovernment, which showcased their imperialistic ambition for a unified India under British dominance.
Section D
[8 Marks]
Answer: In ancient India, the concept of kingship extended beyond the Kshatriyas, who were traditionally recognized as the warrior class. Several examples illustrate how non-Kshatriyas attained kingship. One notable example is the Maurya Dynasty, founded by Chandragupta Maurya, a man of humble origins. Another instance is that of the Gupta Empire, where rulers like Chandragupta I gained power through alliances and strategic marriages, reflecting a shift from hereditary claims to ability and merit. The rise of Buddhist kings, like Ashoka, who, although a Kshatriya by birth, emphasized dharma and governance for all, illustrates that kingship was sometimes based on ethical governance rather than mere lineage. Additionally, regional states often had rulers from different backgrounds, such as the rulers of the Deccan, who were sometimes from merchant or tribal origins. This indicates that kingship was not limited to Kshatriyas but included a diverse range of leaders depending on their abilities to manage and unite their subjects. Thus, governance in ancient India was characterized by a blend of tradition, merit, and opportunity, allowing for a more inclusive approach to leadership.
[8 Marks]
Answer: In the ancient Indian subcontinent, the Brahminical idea of four Varnas categorizes society into Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras. However, there were several populations and communities that existed outside this framework. One prominent example is the tribal societies in areas like the Vindhya and Satpura ranges. These tribes, such as the Gonds and Santhals, had their own social structures, customs, and belief systems that were fundamentally different from the Varnashrama principles. They lived in relative autonomy, often adhering to their indigenous practices rather than Brahminical norms. Additionally, various local deities worshipped by these tribes illustrated a different spiritual landscape that coexisted alongside Brahmanical traditions. Furthermore, communities like the Buddhists and Jains, who emphasized egalitarian principles and challenged the caste hierarchy, also represented populations outside the Varnic system. The emergence of such groups demonstrates that the sociocultural landscape of ancient India was not homogenous and that the Brahminical model was just one of many systems present. Thus, it is critical to understand the diversity in ancient Indian society, as these populations contributed to the rich tapestry of cultural and social dynamics, illustrating that not all social groups aligned with the Brahminical order.
[8 Marks]
Answer: Bernier's observations during his travels in Mughal India provide crucial insights into the land ownership system of the time. He described how land was primarily owned by the Crown, indicating that the emperor held ultimate sovereignty over all agricultural land. In this system, the idea of private property was virtually absent; individuals did not possess land in the way we understand today. Instead, the lands were granted to different officials, including zamindars, who acted as intermediaries between the state and the peasantry. This meant that peasants worked the land under a system of temporary rights, often with the constant threat of eviction. Bernier noted that the Crown's control over land was essential for maintaining the empire's revenue through taxation. The lack of private property rights led to a fluidity in land tenure, which sometimes resulted in conflicts and instability within rural society. Overall, Bernier's accounts highlight a distinctive aspect of Mughal governance, where the state's interests in land ownership overshadowed individual rights, fostering a unique economic environment governed by state authority rather than private enterprise.
[8 Marks]
Answer: Ibn Battuta, the famous Moroccan traveler, provided extensive insights into his observations of Delhi and Daulatabad during his journeys in India. In Delhi, he was impressed by the city’s grandeur, highlighting the architectural marvels, vibrant marketplaces, and the cultural diversity that thrived within its walls. He noted the wealth of the Sultanate and the sophistication of its court, which were indicative of a flourishing civilization. However, he also remarked on the political instability and the challenges faced by the rulers. Moving on to Daulatabad, Battuta expressed mixed feelings; he admired the strategic location of the fort and its impressive defenses. However, he found the climate harsher and somewhat less hospitable than Delhi. Moreover, he critiqued the decision to shift the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad, considering it a move that caused unnecessary hardships to the populace. Battuta's accounts reflect not only geographical transitions but also the socio-political environment of 14th-century India, emphasizing the complexities involved in ruling and administering such diverse regions. His detailed observations contribute significantly to our understanding of the historical context of both cities during his time.
[8 Marks]
Answer: During the deliberations of the Constituent Assembly, various members emphasized the necessity of a strong Centre for multiple reasons. Firstly, they believed that a strong central government was crucial for maintaining national unity and integrity, particularly in a country as diverse as India, which is marked by numerous languages, religions, and cultures. Secondly, a powerful central authority was seen as essential for effective governance, especially for implementing uniform laws and policies catering to the developmental needs of all regions. Additionally, members were concerned about the potential for regional conflicts and the fragmentation of political power among states, which could jeopardize the country’s stability. They also noted the importance of having a central framework to manage economic disparities and ensure equitable distribution of resources. Furthermore, a strong Centre was viewed as vital for international relations, defense, and security, enabling India to project a unified front in global affairs. Consequently, to prevent regionalism and ensure cohesive national policies, many members argued firmly in favor of a strong Centre.
[8 Marks]
Answer: The Constituent Assembly of India, formed in 1946, played a pivotal role in framing the Indian constitution, and several key members contributed significantly to this historic process. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, as the chairman of the Drafting Committee, was instrumental in shaping the constitution’s framework, incorporating principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. His advocacy for the rights of the marginalized communities and his emphasis on social justice were foundational. Another notable figure, Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister, contributed through his vision of a secular and democratic India, particularly in articulating the goals and aspirations of a newly independent nation. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, known as the Iron Man of India, played a crucial role in unifying the princely states and emphasizing the importance of national integrity within the constitutional framework. Additionally, the contributions of other members like Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, who advocated for a secular state, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad, who later became the first President of India, were also significant in ensuring a balanced representation of diverse interests. Their collective efforts led to a democratic Constitution that reflects India’s pluralism and commitment to liberty and equality.
