CBSE EXAMINATION PAPER-2022

Answer: After the Second World War, the US implemented the Marshall Plan, which provided substantial financial aid to rebuild war-torn European economies, fostering cooperation among European states. Additionally, the establishment of NATO created a collective security framework that united Western European nations and promoted political and military collaboration, further facilitating European integration and stability during the Cold War period.

Answer: ASEAN's 'Vision 2020' aims to establish a responsible and outward-looking region that plays a proactive role in the international community. It emphasizes the importance of resolving regional conflicts through negotiation, contributing to peace and stability. The vision builds on ASEAN's commitment to promote economic growth alongside social progress and cultural development, ensuring that member states respect sovereignty and national differences, while maintaining non-interference in domestic affairs.

Answer: The military has frequently interfered in Pakistan's politics, notably during General Zia-ul-Haq's rule from 1978 to 1988, where he imposed martial law and dismissed elected governments. Another significant example is the 1999 coup led by General Pervez Musharraf, who overthrew the elected government of Nawaz Sharif. This military intervention significantly undermined democratic institutions in Pakistan and led to a prolonged period of military dominance over civilian affairs.

Answer: Two significant reasons for the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka include the dominance of the Sinhala community in political representation, which marginalized the Tamil population, leading to feelings of disenfranchisement. Additionally, the growing militant nationalism among Tamils, fueled by the demand for a separate Tamil Eelam, arose in response to the perceived hostility and neglect of Tamil rights by the Sinhala-led government, further intensifying the conflict.

Answer: South Asia includes seven countries, of which four are: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. These nations share diverse cultures, languages, and histories, yet they collectively form a significant geopolitical space in the region. The diversity among these countries contributes to a rich tapestry of traditions and interactions, making South Asia a unique area on the global map.

Answer: Two primary causes of globalisation are advances in technology and liberalization of trade policies. Technological advancements, especially in communication and transportation, have allowed for rapid exchange of information and goods across borders. Meanwhile, trade liberalization, characterized by reduced tariffs and trade barriers, has encouraged countries to engage in international commerce. These factors foster interconnected economies and cultures, significantly shaping the global landscape.

Answer: The split of the Congress Party in 1969 occurred primarily due to ideological differences and the electoral setbacks experienced in the late 1960s. The faction led by Indira Gandhi, known as the Congress (Requisitionists), advocated for socialist policies, emphasizing a welfare agenda. In contrast, the 'syndicate' faction, referred to as Congress (Organisation), focused on traditional methods of leadership and governance. This ideological rift culminated in the party's division, highlighting the changing political landscape of India.

Answer: Jai Prakash Narayan's concept of 'Total Revolution' in 1975 called for a comprehensive transformation of society. He identified seven key revolutions needed for true change, starting with the struggle against social and economic inequalities. Narayan emphasized civil liberties and non-violence, inspired by Gandhi's principles. The movement sought to unite diverse segments of society against corruption and injustice, ultimately advocating for a grassroots political renewal. His approach was not just political but aimed at moral and societal reformation.

Answer: The first coalition government in India faced instability primarily due to fragmented political alliances and a lack of a clear majority. Formed in 1989, the National Front government was dependent on the support of various parties, including the Left and the BJP, which had divergent interests. The absence of a unified agenda led to conflicts and eventually loss of majority support. This situation was reflective of the larger trend of transient coalitions in Indian politics.

Answer: After World War II, the United States played a significant role in the integration of European states through the Marshall Plan and the establishment of NATO. The Marshall Plan, launched in 1948, provided substantial financial aid to rebuild European economies, helping to restore stability and prevent the spread of communism. In addition, the formation of NATO in 1949 created a collective security framework that fostered political and military collaboration among Western European countries, strengthening their ties and facilitating cooperation for mutual defense and economic growth.

Answer: ASEAN's 'Vision 2020' outlines its ambition to strengthen its role as a regional organization while promoting economic growth, social progress, and cultural development among member nations. Established in 1967, ASEAN has evolved to include ten countries and emphasizes peaceful conflict resolution and cooperation based on mutual respect for sovereignty. The vision encourages active engagement in international issues and strategic partnerships beyond economic cooperation, thereby enhancing regional stability and fostering a more integrated Southeast Asia. By promoting dialogue and preventing conflicts, ASEAN aims to create a harmonious and prosperous community by 2020.

Answer: In Pakistan, military interference in politics has been significant throughout its history. One notable example is the overthrow of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's government in 1999 by General Pervez Musharraf, who seized power during a critical period of conflict with India. This coup illustrated the military's justification of its role in governance as necessary for national security. Another instance is the imposition of martial law in 1977 by General Zia-ul-Haq, which led to the suspension of the constitution and political parties, further entrenching military authority in the state. Both examples highlight how the military has positioned itself as a stabilizing force, often at the expense of democratic processes.

Answer: Two significant reasons for the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka are the dominance of the Sinhala majority in political representation and the historical grievances of the Tamil minority. Following independence in 1948, political power was predominantly held by Sinhala politicians who disregarded Tamil concerns and demands. This neglect fueled feelings of alienation among Tamils, leading to the rise of militant groups like the LTTE, which sought independence for Tamils. Additionally, Sinhala nationalists believed that Sri Lanka should not provide concessions to Tamils, further exacerbating tensions and conflict.

Answer: South Asia is a region that encompasses seven countries, reflecting a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions. Among these countries, four prominent nations are India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Nepal. India, the largest country in the region, is known for its vast diversity, ranging from languages to cultures. Bangladesh, gaining independence in 1971, has a unique cultural heritage influenced by Bengali traditions. Pakistan, created alongside India in 1947, has a distinct identity rooted in Islamic history. Lastly, Nepal, a landlocked nation renowned for its mountainous terrain, offers a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences. Together, these countries significantly contribute to the geopolitical landscape of South Asia.

Answer: Globalisation is driven by various factors, among which two key causes stand out: technological advancement and economic liberalisation. Firstly, technological advancement, particularly in communication and transportation, has significantly reduced barriers to global interaction. Innovations like the internet and affordable air travel have made it easier for people, goods, and ideas to cross borders, fostering interconnectedness. Secondly, economic liberalisation refers to the policies adopted by governments to open their economies to international trade and investment. This includes reducing tariffs and restrictions, allowing businesses to operate globally. Together, these causes not only facilitate the flow of capital and goods but also lead to cultural exchanges, making globalisation an intricate and multifaceted phenomenon.

Answer: The split of the Congress Party in 1969 was primarily influenced by ideological differences and the need for political strategy. Firstly, Indira Gandhi's faction aimed to adopt a more socialist approach, distancing itself from the conservative policies of the 'syndicate' faction. This ideological divide manifested in disagreements over economic policies. Secondly, the growing discontent among various Congress factions and the emergence of regional parties during the late 1960s diminished the Congress's hegemony. As sections of the party began to leave for alternative political platforms, the pressure for a unified leadership became critical, leading to the eventual split.

Answer: In 1975, Jai Prakash Narayan championed the idea of ‘Total Revolution’ to address the pressing socio-economic and political injustices in India. He emphasized that true revolution must encompass not just political reform but also social, economic, and moral transformations. JP called for the ‘Seven Revolutions’ to combat inequalities in wealth, race, education, governance, and health, alongside advocating for civil liberties and non-violence. His vision inspired a wide demographic to join the movement, emphasizing a united struggle against corruption and oppression. This inclusive approach not only revitalized the political landscape in Bihar but also aimed for a revolution that transcended state boundaries, fostering a collective sense of purpose among citizens seeking justice and change. Through this ideal of ‘Sampoorna Kranti’, or Total Revolution, JP sought to instill a sense of ownership and urgency among individuals to engage actively in transforming their society.

Answer: The first coalition government at the Centre in India, formed in 1989, was marked by inherent instability primarily due to the lack of a cohesive ideological foundation among the coalition partners. The National Front government was supported by both the Left and the BJP, united only by their common interest in excluding the Congress party from power. However, this fragile alliance lacked a shared agenda, leading to frequent disagreements on policy matters. Moreover, as coalition partners were primarily focused on preserving their own political interests rather than collective governance, the government struggled to maintain a majority. This scenario paved the way for a rapid loss of support, resulting in its inability to carry out long-term initiatives and ultimately leading to its fall. Thus, factional strife and the absence of a unifying vision were significant contributors to the instability of the first coalition government.

Answer: Globalisation has significantly transformed economies around the world, leading to both positive and negative consequences. Firstly, one major economic consequence is the increase in trade and investment. Countries are more interconnected than ever, allowing for the free flow of goods, services, and capital across borders. This has led to the expansion of markets and economic growth for many nations, especially emerging economies that benefit from foreign direct investment and access to global markets. Secondly, globalisation has resulted in job displacement in certain sectors. As companies strive for efficiency, they may outsource jobs to nations where labor is cheaper. This can lead to unemployment or underemployment in more developed countries, as industries move overseas for lower production costs. While globalisation creates opportunities for growth and access to various products and services, it also challenges local economies and labor forces, indicating the complexity of global interconnectedness in today’s economic landscape.

Answer: During the Emergency imposed in 1975, the Union Government committed several excesses that significantly undermined democratic values and individual freedoms. Firstly, political dissent was brutally suppressed; opposition leaders, including those from the Congress Party, were arrested without due process, leading to widespread fear. Secondly, censorship of the press was imposed, restricting any critical coverage of the government and violating the freedom of speech, essential for a healthy democracy. Thirdly, there was significant abuse of power by the government as laws were enacted that curtailed civil liberties, allowing for arbitrary detention under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA). Lastly, the government initiated forced sterilization programs aimed at population control, which were executed without consent and often met with public resistance. These excesses not only showcased an authoritarian approach but also left a profound impact on Indian politics and the public's trust in the democratic framework.

Answer: China's economic development involved several critical steps that transformed it into a global economic powerhouse. Firstly, the privatization of agriculture in 1982 marked a significant shift, allowing farmers greater control over their production, leading to remarkable increases in yields and rural incomes. Secondly, the introduction of the 'Open Door' policy in 1978 welcomed foreign investment, fostering international trade and capital influx. Thirdly, Special Economic Zones (SEZs) were established, where trade barriers were eliminated, encouraging foreign enterprises to set up and driving regional economic growth. Lastly, the focus on education and health improved the workforce's quality, ensuring that citizens were not only productive but also healthier, which further supported economic expansion. These steps collectively shifted China from a planned economy towards a market-oriented system, encouraging technological advancements and higher productivity.

Answer: The European Union (EU) has evolved into a formidable organization due to several key factors. Firstly, its economic strength is noteworthy; with a projected GDP of approximately $19.35 trillion in 2024, it is a major player in the global economy. The euro, as a common currency, enhances trade within the member states and poses a challenge to the dollar's dominance. Secondly, the EU has a robust political framework, providing a unified approach to governance and law-making among its members. Thirdly, the EU's foreign policy carries weight, as it navigates diplomatic relations effectively, exemplified by France's permanent position on the UN Security Council, which bolsters its influence. Lastly, the EU's commitment to collective security and military coordination among member states strengthens its global stance, allowing it to act collectively in international matters. This multifaceted power structure enables the EU to assert itself on the world stage, balancing economic interests with political and security needs.

Answer: After 1989, several areas of consensus have emerged among major political parties in India, reflecting a shift in political dynamics. Firstly, there is a broad agreement on new economic policies aimed at liberalization and globalization. Even traditionally left-leaning parties have acknowledged the necessity for economic reforms to enhance growth. Secondly, there is a consensus on the need for social justice, promoting affirmative actions for marginalized communities. Most parties now endorse policies that seek to empower Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and women. Thirdly, a mutual agreement has developed around federalism and the need to uphold the rights of states in a centralized political framework, recognizing the importance of a balanced distribution of power. This emerging consensus reflects the evolving political culture and aspirations of Indian society in the modern context.

Answer: After 2014, Indian politics witnessed significant transformations, notably the rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as a dominant force, achieving a historic majority in both the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections. This established a shift towards a more competitive political landscape, characterized by an implicit focus on development and welfare policies. Furthermore, the Modi government's emphasis on social welfare initiatives led to programs that particularly benefitted women, such as 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' aimed at improving female literacy and saving the girl child, and 'Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana' which included provisions for women in housing schemes, ensuring financial empowerment and security. These changes not only stabilized the party structure but also reinforced the economic position of women in society.