SOLUTIONS
2024 BOARD EXAM
CBSE CLASS 12-HUMANITIES POLITICAL SCIENCE Board Paper 2024 — Set 3
2024
POLITICAL SCIENCE
CLASS 12-HUMANITIES
CBSE EXAMINATION PAPER-2024
POLITICAL SCIENCE
(Solved)
General Instructions :
Read the following instructions carefully and follow them :
- This question paper contains 38 questions. All questions are compulsory.
- This question paper is divided into 6 sections.
- Section A – questions number 1 to 3 are case based questions
- Section B – questions number 4 to 8 are very short answer
- Section C – questions number 9 to 17 are multiple choice questions
- Section D – questions number 18 to 23 are short answer
- Section E – questions number 24 to 30 are long answer type i
- Section F – questions number 31 to 38 are long answer type ii
- There is no overall choice given in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in few questions.
- Use of calculator is NOT allowed.
Section A
Question 1.
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
The 1980s also saw the rise of political organisations of the Dalits. In trade union of government employees. It took a strong position in favour of the SC, ST, OBC and minorities. It was out of this that the subsequent Dalit Shoshit Samaj Sangharsh Samiti and later the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) emerged.
(1) Choose the correct full form of BAMCEF : (A) Bahujan and Minority Communities Employees Federation (B) Bahujan and Minority Communities Employees Foundation (C) Backward and Minority Communities Employees Federation (D) Backward and Minority Communities Employees Foundation
Answer: The correct full form of BAMCEF is (C) Backward and Minority Communities Employees Federation. This organization was formed in 1978 and played a crucial role in advocating for the rights of the backward and minority communities in India.
Key Points: BAMCEF stands for Backward and Minority Communities Employees Federation; formed in 1978; important in advocating for SC, ST, OBC; influenced the rise of Dalit political organizations.
(2) In which year was the Bahujan Samaj Party formed ? (A) 1981 (B) 1984 (C) 1989 (D) 1991
Answer: The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) was formed in 1984. It emerged from the political organisations that strongly advocated for the rights of the SC, ST, OBC, and minorities during the 1980s, following the influence of the Dalit Shoshit Samaj Sangharsh Samiti. The party, under the leadership of Kanshi Ram, began as a small political group largely supported by Dalit voters and gradually evolved into a significant political force.
Key Points: BSP formation year is 1984 - Emerged from Dalit political organisations - Advocated for SC, ST, OBC rights - Leadership of Kanshi Ram - Initial support from Dalit voters
(3) Who was the founder leader of Bahujan Samaj Party ? (A) B.R. Ambedkar (B) Mayawati (C) Mulayam Singh (D) Kanshi Ram
Answer: The founder leader of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) was Kanshi Ram. He established the party in 1984, with the aim of empowering the Dalits and other marginalized communities such as the Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC). Kanshi Ram was a prominent political strategist who believed that political power was essential for achieving social equality. His leadership transformed the BSP into a significant political force, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh, and the party gained notable electoral successes in the late 1980s.
Key Points: Kanshi Ram; founder of BSP; established in 1984; aimed at Dalit empowerment; significant political strategist; success in UP elections.
(4) In which State did the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) form its first government ? (A) Punjab (B) Haryana (C) Uttar Pradesh (D) Rajasthan
Answer: The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) formed its first government in Uttar Pradesh in 1989. This marked a significant political milestone as it was the first time in independent India that a party primarily supported by Dalit voters achieved such success in the political landscape.
Key Points: BSP formed first government in 1989 - Uttar Pradesh; party primarily supported by Dalit voters; significant milestone in Indian politics
Question 2.
In the given political outline map of India (on page 19), four States have been marked as A, B, C and D. Identify these States on the basis of the information given below and write their correct names in your answer-book along with the respective serial number of the information used and the concerned alphabets given in the map as per the following format:
(1) The State where the Congress party did not secure majority in 1967 elections.
[1 Marks]
Answer: The State where the Congress party did not secure majority in the 1967 elections is Bihar. This information corresponds to serial number 6 and is marked as 'C' on the map. Other states include Punjab, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh.
Key Points: 1976 elections- Congress lost majority- key states identified- Bihar is 'C' on map
(2) The State where Congress party did not secure majority in 1967 elections but formed the government with the support of other parties.
Answer: The State where the Congress party did not secure a majority in the 1967 elections but formed the government with the support of other parties is Punjab (referring to the map marked as 'A'). This is based on the information that despite not having a majority, the Congress managed to create a coalition with other parties.
Key Points: Punjab - Congress lack of majority in 1967 - Coalition government formed
(3) The State related to Samajwadi leader, Ram Manohar Lohia.
Answer: The State related to Samajwadi leader Ram Manohar Lohia is Uttar Pradesh. The corresponding letter in the map for this State is D, which matches with serial number 6 regarding the non-Congress government installation. Thus, the answer is: D - Uttar Pradesh.
Key Points: Ram Manohar Lohia - Samajwadi leader; Uttar Pradesh - identified State; corresponds with political context of the 1967 elections.
(4) The State related to the former President of India, V.V. Giri.
Answer: The State related to the former President of India, V.V. Giri, is Andhra Pradesh. The information used corresponds to the description that V.V. Giri was associated with the state in his political career. Therefore, the answer is: State: Andhra Pradesh, Serial Number: (Use the appropriate number from the map), Alphabet: A (or the correct letter marked on the map).
Key Points: V.V. Giri's association with Andhra Pradesh-Importance of marking states-Recognition of former presidents in political history
(5) Which popular slogan was given by Lal Bahadur Shastri ?
Answer: The popular slogan given by Lal Bahadur Shastri was 'Jai Jawan Jai Kisan'. This phrase emphasized the importance of both the armed forces (Jawan) and the farmers (Kisan) for the nation's progress.
Key Points: Jai Jawan Jai Kisan-Lal Bahadur Shastri-slogan for farmers and soldiers
(6) Which decade of Indian politics has been referred to as the 'dangerous decade'?
Answer: The decade of Indian politics referred to as the 'dangerous decade' is the 1960s. During this period, India faced several unresolved issues such as poverty, inequality, and communal and regional divisions, which posed a significant threat to the stability of democracy in the country and raised concerns about the potential disintegration of the nation.
Key Points: 1960s designation as 'dangerous decade'-unresolved issues: poverty, inequality, communal and regional divisions-threat to democracy and national unity
(7) Which candidate was supported by Indira Gandhi for the post of President in 1969 ?
Answer: Indira Gandhi supported V.V. Giri as her candidate for the post of President in 1969. This was a retaliation against the nomination of her opponent N. Sanjeeva Reddy by the Syndicate.
Key Points: Indira Gandhi's rivalry with Syndicate-N. Sanjeeva Reddy nominated by the Syndicate-V.V. Giri as independent candidate-1970 Presidential election context
(8) Which State is related to the phrase 'Aya Ram, Gaya Ram'?
Answer: The State related to the phrase 'Aya Ram, Gaya Ram' is Haryana. This expression originated when Gaya Lal, an MLA from Haryana, famously changed his party allegiance three times in a short period of time, capturing the essence of frequent floor-crossing in Indian politics.
Key Points: Origin of the phrase; Gaya Lal's party changes; Context of political realignment in Haryana
Question 3.
Study the picture given below related to the Berlin Wall and answer the questions that follow:
(1) What did the Berlin Wall symbolise?
[1 Marks]
Answer: The Berlin Wall symbolised the profound division between the capitalist West and the communist East during the Cold War era. Constructed in 1961, the wall served as a physical barrier separating East Berlin, which was under communist rule, from West Berlin, a capitalist bastion. This more than 150-kilometre-long wall stood for 28 years, representing the ideological clash and tensions of the Cold War. Its eventual dismantling on November 9, 1989, marked not only the unification of Germany but also signified the weakening of communist influence in Eastern Europe and the beginning of the end for the communist bloc.
Key Points: division between capitalist and communist world-built in 1961-separated East and West Berlin- stood for 28 years-toppled in 1989-unification of Germany-end of Cold War
(2) Between which two countries was the Berlin Wall built?
[1 Marks]
Answer: The Berlin Wall was built to separate East Berlin, which was aligned with the Soviet Union and represented a communist regime, from West Berlin, which was aligned with capitalist West Germany. This division symbolized the broader ideological divide between the capitalist and communist blocs during the Cold War.
Key Points: East Berlin-West Berlin-division during the Cold War
(3) Highlight any two outcomes of breaking of the Berlin Wall.
[2 Marks]
Answer: The breaking of the Berlin Wall in 1989 had significant outcomes. Firstly, it marked the unification of Germany, ending nearly half a century of division between East and West Berlin. This unification symbolized the larger process of dismantling communist regimes in Eastern Europe. Secondly, the fall of the Berlin Wall symbolized the end of the Cold War, leading to the collapse of communist governments across Eastern Europe and significant shifts in global politics, paving the way for a more integrated Europe and the expansion of democratic governance.
Key Points: Unification of Germany - End of Cold War - Collapse of communist regimes
(4) In which year did the Second World War end ?
Answer: The Second World War ended in the year 1945. This conflict, which lasted from 1939 to 1945, resulted in significant global changes and set the stage for the division of Europe and the eventual construction of the Berlin Wall during the Cold War.
Key Points: Second World War ended in 1945-Global changes occurred after the war-Set stage for Berlin Wall's construction
(5) In which year was the Berlin Wall built ?
Answer: The Berlin Wall was built in the year 1961. It was erected to separate East Berlin from West Berlin and symbolized the division between the capitalist and communist worlds during the Cold War. The wall remained in place for 28 years until it was finally broken down on November 9, 1989, marking a significant moment in history.
Key Points: Built in 1961-separates East and West Berlin-symbolized Cold War division-standing for 28 years
(6) In which year did the Soviet Union disintegrate ?
Answer: The Soviet Union disintegrated in the year 1991. This event followed the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, which was a significant moment in the Cold War, heralding the end of communist rule in Eastern Europe. The disintegration of the Soviet Union marked the end of the Cold War and the division between the capitalist and communist worlds.
Key Points: Soviet Union disintegrated in 1991-fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989-significant end of the Cold War
(7) Name the leader who became the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union in 1985.
Answer: The leader who became the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union in 1985 is Mikhail Gorbachev. He was the last leader of the Soviet Union and is known for initiating significant reforms such as perestroika and glasnost, which aimed to modernize the Soviet political and economic system.
Key Points: Mikhail Gorbachev-1985-General Secretary-Soviet Union-perestroika-glasnost-reforms-sought to modernize
Section B
Question 4.
Highlight any two features of the Constitution of Bangladesh.
[1 Marks]
Answer: The Constitution of Bangladesh emphasizes secularism and democracy as its fundamental principles. Secularism ensures that the state remains neutral in religious matters, promoting equal treatment of all religions. Democracy establishes a framework for governance where the people elect their representatives, ensuring their participation in political processes. Both features are vital for the functioning of a just and equitable society, promoting individual rights and freedoms while fostering a pluralistic environment.
Question 5.
State any two objectives of ASEAN.
[1 Marks]
Answer: Two main objectives of ASEAN are to accelerate economic growth and to promote regional peace and stability. The organization aims to foster economic collaboration among member countries, enhancing social progress and cultural development. Additionally, ASEAN strives to maintain regional peace based on the rule of law and the principles of the United Nations Charter, ensuring a secure environment for cooperation and development in Southeast Asia.
Question 6.
Analyse any two differences between India and China which led to a military conflict in 1962.
[1 Marks]
Answer: One significant difference was territorial claims; India claimed Arunachal Pradesh, while China claimed Aksai Chin. Another difference was the annexation of Tibet by China in 1950, which removed a buffer zone between India and China, escalating tensions. The Indian government became increasingly uneasy about China's actions in Tibet, leading to distrust. These differences, fueled by contrasting national interests and perceptions, culminated in the military conflict of 1962.
Question 7.
Explain the nature of the Congress party as an ideological coalition during the freedom movement.
[1 Marks]
Answer: The Congress party during the freedom movement functioned as an ideological coalition that embraced diverse groups and beliefs. This included revolutionaries, pacifists, conservatives, radicals, and individuals from the right, left, and center. It provided a platform for various interests and political factions to unite under a common goal of independence. Despite differing ideologies, members often chose to stay within Congress to influence party direction, reflecting its character as an accommodating and inclusive political entity.
Question 8.
State any two effects of imposing national emergency.
[1 Marks]
Answer: Imposing a national emergency results in the centralization of power within the union government, effectively sidelining the federal distribution of powers. This concentration of authority allows the parliament to legislate on state matters. Additionally, during an emergency, the government gains the ability to restrict or curtail Fundamental Rights, impacting citizens' freedoms. These measures ensure swift governance but pose challenges to democracy.
Section C
Question 9.
[1 Marks]
The 'SAARC' is a major __________________ initiative by South Asian States to evolve mutual cooperation.
Explanation:
The correct answer is 'Regional' because the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) is specifically a regional initiative aimed at fostering cooperation among South Asian countries.
Question 10.
[1 Marks]
Which region of India is referred to as the 'Seven Sisters'?
Explanation: The North-East region of India is referred to as the 'Seven Sisters' because it consists of eight states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Tripura, Mizoram, and Meghalaya, which were traditionally known as the seven sisters, with Sikkim added later as the 'Brother'.
Question 11.
[1 Marks]
Who led the 'Peoples' March' to the Parliament in 1975?
Explanation: Jayaprakash Narayan (JP) led the 'Peoples' March' to the Parliament in 1975, as stated in the context. He was a prominent figure in mobilizing various opposition parties and rallying support for the movement against the government's actions during that time, marking a significant political event in Indian history.
Question 12.
Students of which two states started an agitation against the rising food prices in 1974?
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The correct answer is 'Bihar and Gujarat.' In January 1974, students in Gujarat began their protest against rising food prices and corruption, and in March 1974, students in Bihar joined the movement, addressing similar issues of food scarcity and corruption. Both states were crucial in initiating student-led agitations during this period.
Question 13.
[1 Marks]
Assertion (A) : The king, with the help of the army, retained full control over the government and restricted the expansion of democracy in Nepal.
Reason (R) : The king accepted the demand for a new democratic constitution in 2001, in the wake of a strong pro-democracy movement.
Explanation: Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false. The assertion accurately states that the king retained full control over the government and restricted democracy in Nepal, particularly after abolishing the parliament in 2002. However, Reason (R) incorrectly identifies the year of the accepted democratic constitution as 2001; it should be 1990. The king did respond to pro-democracy movements in 1990 by accepting a new constitution, but subsequently took actions to limit democracy.
Question 14.
Which one of the following movements was not started by the people of North-East to express their regional aspirations?
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The correct answer is 'Movement to form a union of North-East States'. The other options—Movement against outsiders, Movement for greater autonomy, and Movement for secession—reflect real regional aspirations and protests that arose due to socio-political issues in the North-East, such as opposition to illegal migration, demands for autonomy from Assam's impositions, and secessionist movements. In contrast, a unified movement to form a union of North-East States does not specifically express these regional aspirations.
Question 15.
[1 Marks]
Assertion (A) : The first general elections in India had to be postponed twice and were finally held from October 1951 to February 1952.
Reason (R) : It was no longer possible to argue that democratic elections could not be held in conditions of poverty or lack of education.
Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A). The context supports that while the first general elections were indeed postponed twice before being held, it also emphasizes that the shift in perspective regarding the feasibility of democratic elections in conditions of poverty and lack of education was significant. Thus, the reasons behind the postponement and the eventual holding of elections are interlinked.
Question 16.
Which one of the following statements about the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka is false?
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The statement 'LTTE was supported by the SAARC countries.' is false. The LTTE mainly fought for Tamil rights against the Sri Lankan government, and there is no evidence that SAARC countries as a collective supported them. In contrast, the other statements highlight the political dominance of the Sinhalese, the neglect of Tamil interests, and the involvement of both Sinhalese and Tamils in the conflict, which are all accurate based on the context provided.
Question 17.
UN was established with the objective to:
[1 Marks]
Explanation: The correct answer is 'prevent international conflict and facilitate cooperation among member states.' This is because the UN's primary goal, as stated in the context, was to prevent conflicts between states from escalating into war and to encourage cooperation among nations for social and economic development.
Section D
Question 18.
Highlight any two features of the Constitution of Bangladesh.
[2 Marks]
Answer: The Constitution of Bangladesh, adopted in 1972, embodies key principles reflective of the nation's aspirations. Firstly, it emphasizes secularism, underscoring the importance of a state that is neutral in matters of religion, ensuring equal treatment for all citizens irrespective of their faith. Secondly, it establishes democracy as a core feature, affirming the right of the people to choose their representatives through free and fair elections. However, the political landscape has evolved, particularly after amendments in 1975 under Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who introduced a presidential system, consolidating power within his party. These features reflect the balance between political ideology and governance.
Question 19.
State any two objectives of ASEAN.
[2 Marks]
Answer: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was established with several key objectives. Firstly, one of the primary objectives is to accelerate economic growth among the member countries. This economic development aims to foster social progress and cultural advancement across the region. Secondly, another significant objective is to promote regional peace and stability, which is founded on the principles of the United Nations Charter. This focus on peace ensures that ASEAN remains a cooperative and secure environment for its members.
Question 20.
Analyse any two differences between India and China which led to a military conflict in 1962.
[2 Marks]
Answer: The 1962 military conflict between India and China stemmed from key differences in their territorial claims and diplomatic relations. Firstly, the annexation of Tibet by China in 1950 significantly altered the geopolitical landscape. This move removed the historical buffer between the two nations, escalating tensions. Secondly, the differing perceptions regarding borders intensified the conflict. India claimed Aksai Chin as its territory, while China viewed Arunachal Pradesh as part of its own territory, leading to armed conflict. These disparities, coupled with lack of effective diplomatic engagement, culminated in the brief but intense war.
Question 21.
Explain the nature of the Congress party as an ideological coalition during the freedom movement.
[2 Marks]
Answer: The Congress party during the freedom movement functioned as an ideological coalition, incorporating a broad spectrum of political beliefs and groups. It merged various identities, including revolutionary and pacifist, conservative and radical, as well as extremist and moderate factions. This diversity allowed the Congress to serve as a platform for numerous individuals and organizations, facilitating a united front against colonial rule. Post-independence, the party began to align more closely with specific ideologies, emphasizing a socialist stance. However, during the freedom struggle, its adaptability and embrace of different viewpoints were crucial for mobilizing widespread support and advocating for independence, accommodating conflicting ideas while maintaining a cohesive movement.
Question 22.
State any two effects of imposing national emergency.
[2 Marks]
Answer: Imposing a national emergency has significant effects on the governance and rights within a country. First, it centralizes power in the hands of the union government, effectively suspending the distribution of federal powers. This allows Parliament to legislate on matters that are typically within the jurisdiction of the states. Second, it grants the government the authority to curtail or limit Fundamental Rights. This means that individual freedoms can be restricted or suspended, impacting civil liberties during the emergency period.
Question 23.
[2 Marks]
In which year was 'NITI Aayog' constituted and which organisation did it replace?
Answer: NITI Aayog, or the National Institution for Transforming India, was constituted on January 1, 2015. This organization was established to replace the Planning Commission, which had been in operation since India's independence. The creation of NITI Aayog marked a significant shift in India's approach to economic planning and governance. Unlike the Planning Commission, which focused on centralized planning, NITI Aayog promotes decentralized, collaborative, and sustainable development, aiming to foster cooperative federalism among states. The Prime Minister of India serves as its chairperson, along with other key members and stakeholders. NITI Aayog is tasked with providing both strategic direction and technical assistance to state and central governments in their policies and initiatives.
Section E
Question 24.
[4 Marks]
"Regional aspirations and their accommodation are an integral part of Indian democratic politics." Support the statement with any two suitable arguments.
Answer: Regional aspirations are essential to Indian democratic politics as they allow citizens of diverse backgrounds to engage meaningfully in the political process. Firstly, the acknowledgment of regional identities fosters inclusivity; it enables political parties to represent the specific needs and concerns of different groups, thereby enhancing representation and accountability. For instance, political movements in states like Punjab or Tamil Nadu successfully address regional issues, promoting local interests while contributing to national unity. Secondly, India's flexible constitutional framework accommodates diverse regional demands without promoting separatism. This adaptive quality differentiates India from other nations facing regional conflicts, as democracy thrives through the recognition of these aspirations, ensuring that all voices, regardless of geographical or cultural differences, are heard in policymaking. This approach not only strengthens democracy but also nurtures a sense of belonging among citizens, ensuring stability and social cohesion in the nation.
Question 25.
Describe any two factors responsible for the economic growth in Sri Lanka despite the internal conflicts.
[4 Marks]
Answer: Despite the internal conflicts, Sri Lanka has achieved significant economic growth due to two primary factors. Firstly, the country has successfully controlled its population growth, which has allowed for better resource distribution and increased per capita income. This focus on population management has played a key role in enhancing living standards. Secondly, by being one of the first developing nations to liberalize its economy, Sri Lanka attracted foreign investment, which has further stimulated economic activities, leading to improved infrastructure, production capabilities, and overall development. These initiatives have helped Sri Lanka maintain a relatively high GDP and foster human development even amidst challenges.
Question 26.
Write any two political consequences of globalization.
[4 Marks]
Answer: Globalization has profound political consequences that redefine state sovereignty and diminish the power of nation-states. Firstly, globalization leads to the erosion of state sovereignty as international organizations and transnational corporations gain influence over domestic policies. States find it harder to regulate their economies or protect their citizens from economic disparities, resulting in increasing inequality where the rich become richer, and the poor suffer. Secondly, there is a growing dependence on global governance mechanisms, which may undermine national interests. As states comply with international regulations and norms, they might prioritize global standards over local needs, generating resistance and anxiety among citizens who feel disconnected from decision-making processes. Consequently, while globalization promises more interconnectedness, it often diminishes the political agency of states, leading to a disempowerment of the democratic process at the national level.
Question 27.
How did the coalition governments prove to be a boon for democracy in India? Explain.
[4 Marks]
Answer: Coalition governments in India, which emerged prominently since 1989, have significantly contributed to the strengthening of democracy in the country. First and foremost, they represent a wider spectrum of political ideologies and interests, allowing for greater inclusiveness in governance. This multitude of parties necessitates negotiation and compromise, fostering a culture of collaboration rather than authoritarianism. The need for coalition partners to align their policies promotes a more deliberative approach to decision-making. Furthermore, coalition dynamics have compelled political leaders to maintain a continuous dialogue with diverse constituencies, enhancing representation and accountability. Another important aspect is the enhanced role of the President in selecting Prime Ministers, reflecting a shift towards a more balanced power distribution in the executive. Although some coalition governments were short-lived due to the lack of majority support, this reflects a vibrant and evolving democratic process wherein public sentiment shapes governance. Consequently, coalition politics has encouraged political stability through consensus building, mitigating the risks of majoritarianism, and empowering regional voices, thereby reinforcing the democratic framework in India.
Question 28.
In the 2014 elections, why were people in favour of a stable government at the Centre? Explain any two reasons.
[4 Marks]
Answer: In the 2014 elections, voters strongly favored a stable government at the Centre due to several significant factors. Firstly, the era of coalition politics that began in 1989 led to fragmented governments, causing inefficiency and instability. People experienced multiple governments that were either coalitions or lacked majority support, leading to dissatisfaction and a yearning for decisive leadership. Secondly, the economic challenges faced during the last Congress government created a sense of urgency for a majority government that could implement reforms swiftly. Voters believed that a single-party majority, represented by the BJP, would restore economic stability and focus on development, drawing a clear contrast to the perceived stagnation during the coalition years. Hence, the desire for stability, effective governance, and a strong economic agenda motivated support for the BJP in 2014.
Question 29.
[4 Marks]
"India has supported the restructuring of the United Nations on several grounds." Support the statement.
Answer: India’s support for the restructuring of the United Nations (UN) is anchored in several crucial arguments. Firstly, India believes that the UN should reflect the realities of the contemporary world, where emerging powers play a vital role in global governance. The current structure, particularly the Security Council, is perceived as outdated and unrepresentative, as it does not include significant developing countries. India advocates for increased representation of these nations, arguing that development must be central to the UN’s agenda. As the most populous democracy, comprising nearly one-fifth of the global population, India claims rightful consideration for permanent membership in a reformed Security Council, thus advocating for a broader approach to its composition. Furthermore, India's consistent financial contributions and active participation in peacekeeping strengthen its argument for enhanced influence within the UN. Additionally, an expanded Security Council would not only provide necessary diversity but also increase its effectiveness, especially given the rising complexities of international conflicts. Overall, India views a restructured UN as essential for promoting equitable development and fostering global cooperation, reinforcing its commitment to a more inclusive international order.
Question 30.
[4 Marks]
"Reforming the United Nations means restructuring of the Security Council." Justify the statement.
Answer: The assertion that reforming the United Nations necessitates the restructuring of the Security Council is grounded in significant critiques of its current operations. First, the Security Council is seen as unrepresentative of modern global dynamics, primarily dominated by a select group of Western powers. This leads to decisions that may not reflect the interests and values of a more diverse world. Moreover, contemporary political realities demand a Security Council that includes emerging powers and reflects a broader range of voices, including those from the Global South. The existing inequity in representation limits the Council's legitimacy and effectiveness. In 1992, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution pinpointing the need for reforms addressing these issues. In 1997, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan emphasized this need, which reflects widespread agreement on potential reforms. However, consensus on the specifics of how to implement these changes remains elusive. For instance, the call for increasing both permanent and non-permanent members of the Security Council to better represent global demographics has been a central point in discussions. Ultimately, without restructuring, the Security Council risks becoming increasingly irrelevant in addressing the complexities of international affairs in a multipolar world.
Section F
Question 31.
[6 Marks]
In what ways has the principle of 'common but differentiated responsibilities helped in addressing and overcoming the differences between the 'Global North' and 'Global South' over environmental issues? Explain.
Answer: The principle of 'common but differentiated responsibilities' emerged from the Rio Declaration of 1992 to address the disparities in environmental responsibilities between developed countries (Global North) and developing countries (Global South). It recognizes that while all nations share a common responsibility to protect the environment, their historical contributions to environmental degradation differ significantly. Developed countries, having industrialized earlier and contributed more to pollution, are recognized as having greater responsibility for mitigation efforts. This principle promotes equitable environmental governance by urging developed nations to provide technological and financial support to developing countries, thereby empowering them to implement sustainable practices. Additionally, it facilitates collaborative efforts towards global environmental issues while respecting the developmental needs of the Global South, thus helping to bridge the gap between the two regions. By ensuring that developing nations are not held to the same standards without adequate support, the principle fosters a spirit of global partnership and encourages collective action towards sustainable development, ultimately leading to a more inclusive approach to environmental conservation.
Question 32.
Explain any three programmes initiated by the Government of India to protect and conserve the environment.
[6 Marks]
Answer: The Government of India has initiated several programmes aimed at protecting and conserving the environment. Firstly, the National Auto-fuel Policy promotes cleaner fuels for vehicles, which helps reduce vehicular emissions and improves air quality. Secondly, the Energy Conservation Act, enacted in 2001, focuses on enhancing energy efficiency across various sectors, promoting sustainable energy practices. Thirdly, the Electricity Act of 2003 encourages the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, into the national grid, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and combatting climate change. These initiatives are part of India’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability and align with international agreements like the Paris Climate Agreement.
Question 33.
Explain any three security challenges faced by the newly independent countries of Asia and Africa after the Second World War.
[6 Marks]
Answer: After the Second World War, the newly-independent countries of Asia and Africa faced several significant security challenges. Firstly, many of these nations confronted the threat of military conflict with their neighbors, often due to pre-existing territorial disputes exacerbated by decolonization. Secondly, internal military conflict became prevalent, as various ethnic and political groups vied for power, leading to civil wars and instability. Lastly, the fear of former colonial powers reasserting their influence created a pervasive anxiety about imperialist interventions, which forced these nations to prioritize military readiness despite their limited resources. These challenges shaped the political landscape and security policies of emerging states, influencing their international alignments during the Cold War.
Question 34.
Explain any three components of the Indian security strategy.
[6 Marks]
Answer: India’s security strategy encompasses several vital components tailored to address both traditional and non-traditional threats. The first component focuses on strengthening military capabilities. Given its historical conflicts with Pakistan and China, India emphasizes military preparedness, having conducted nuclear tests in 1998 to bolster its defense posture. The second component relates to enhancing international norms and institutions; India, under leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, actively pursued Asian solidarity and UN involvement, underlining the importance of diplomacy in conflict resolution. Lastly, addressing internal security challenges forms a crucial part of the strategy, as India confronts various militant groups in regions like Nagaland and Punjab. This multi-faceted approach ensures a comprehensive security framework for the nation.
Question 35.
Justify the policy of Non-Alignment adopted by India, by giving any three arguments.
[6 Marks]
Answer: The policy of Non-Alignment adopted by India played a pivotal role in shaping its foreign relations during the Cold War. Firstly, the primary objective of non-alignment was to preserve India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. By not aligning with either the United States or the Soviet Union, India maintained freedom in its decision-making and avoided being entangled in global power rivalries. Secondly, non-alignment allowed India to promote its interest in peace and development, contributing to global disarmament initiatives and participating actively in UN peacekeeping missions, thereby reinforcing its global image as a peace-loving nation. Finally, adopting a non-aligned stance provided India with diplomatic space to forge relationships with other developing nations, while also advocating for their rights and interests, distinguishing itself from countries embroiled in superpower politics. Overall, non-alignment was a strategic approach that fortified India’s diplomatic position on the world stage while serving its national interests.
Question 36.
[6 Marks]
"Foreign policy of independent India has pursued the dream of a peaceful world." Support the statement with three suitable arguments.
Answer: The foreign policy of independent India has consistently aimed for a peaceful world through various significant actions. Firstly, India championed the Non-Aligned Movement, which was vital during the Cold War, allowing it to maintain autonomy and promote peaceful coexistence without aligning with the superpowers. Secondly, India actively contributed to UN peacekeeping missions, which reflects its commitment to global peace and stability. Lastly, India advocated for disarmament and supported initiatives for a New International Economic Order, emphasizing equitable rights for all nations in global affairs. These actions embody India's dedication to fostering a peaceful and just international community.
Question 37.
Describe any three major challenges faced by India at the time of independence in 1947.
[6 Marks]
Answer: At the time of independence in 1947, India faced several significant challenges. Firstly, the challenge of national unity loomed large as the country was marked by immense diversity in languages, cultures, and religions. The leaders had to forge a sense of belonging across different communities. Secondly, there was the issue of territorial integrity, especially due to the partition that led to widespread violence and displacement, creating tensions between communities. Lastly, the task of nation-building was compounded by economic challenges, as the country needed to rebuild and develop its economy following colonial exploitation, with inadequate infrastructure and resources. Addressing these challenges was crucial for shaping a sovereign and prosperous India.
Question 38.
Describe any three major difficulties that came in the way of the partition of British India in 1947.
[6 Marks]
Answer: The partition of British India in 1947 was fraught with numerous difficulties. Firstly, the urgent need for resolving the integration of princely states into the Indian Union posed a significant challenge. Many princely states were uncertain about their political future and required negotiations to ensure a smooth transition. Secondly, the internal boundaries of the new nations had to be drawn, considering the diverse linguistic and cultural aspirations of the populace. This was complicated by the presence of non-Muslim majorities in regions like Punjab and Bengal, where decisions had to be made at a micro-level, often igniting communal tensions. Lastly, the brutality of violence and displacement as a consequence of partition greatly impacted the secular fabric envisioned for India. Thousands lost their lives, which made the task of nation-building an even more daunting challenge. Each of these difficulties highlighted the complexity and contentious nature of partition, revealing the deep-seated communal rifts and aspirations that defined the period.
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