Limitations of using average income for

ECONOMICS comparison:

DEVELOPMENT a. Average income does not tell us the

distribution of income among the people.
Question 1. Define the term National Income?
b. It do not tell us about the health, education,
Answer: National income is defined as the total living standard etc.
value of all final goods and services produced
with a country plus net income from transactions Example: In terms of development, we can take
like (export and import) with other countries. the example of India, where the metro towns are
full of high-rise buildings and shopping malls
Question 2. Define GDP. while some villages have not yet been provided
with a basic necessity like electricity.
Answer: GDP or Gross Domestic Product is the
total value of all final goods and services Question 6. “Money cannot buy all the goods
produced during a particular year in a country. and services that one needs to live well” Do
you agree with this statement? Justify your
Question 3. What is Human Development answer with any three suitable arguments.
Index?
Answer: Yes, I agree with the statement that
Answer: Human Development Index is an index money cannot buy all the goods and services one
of achievements in terms of Education, Health needs to live well because
and Income released by United nation
development programme. This index determines Money cannot buy pollution free and clean
the quality of life. environment.

Three Marks Questions It cannot protect us from infectious diseases and

guarantee good health for us.
Question 4: Mention any four characteristics
of Development. Money cannot ensure equal treatment, freedom,
security, equal opportunity to learn, good and safe
i) Development is linked with the desire to working conditions etc.
improve the present condition.
Question 7: What do you mean by public
ii) Development involves thinking about the ways facilities ? Why are they important?
in which we can work towards achieving our
desired goals. Answer: Public facilities are the facilities
provided by the government either free of cost or
iii) There can be different development goals for at very low price for the welfare of the people
different persons. like schools , health centres, public transport etc.
iv) Development for one may not be development The importance of these facilities are:
for others.
1. Low-cost Education helps in the improvement
Question5 . Why do we use averages? Are of human resource in terms of working skills.
there any limitations to their use? Illustrate
with your own examples related to 2. It provides hospitals, Vaccine programmes to
development. maintain health of the citizens.

Answer: We use average to compare the 3. It is the duty of the government to ensure law
economic development of different countries. and order and provide security in order to
Average income is total income of the country maintain peace in the country.
divided by total population.
4. Government opens PDS shops or ration shops
through which it supplies basic food items like
1
rice, wheat, pulses, etc at very low price so poor the World Bank on the following basis:
people can survive.
a. World Bank uses PCI as a criterion for
5. Other facilities like road, irrigation projects, comparing the countries whereas UNDP uses
drinking water supplies in urban areas etc also PCI, health status and educational levels for the
help in the development of the country. comparison.
Question 8 : “What may be the development b. The criteria used by the World Bank does not
for one may be the destruction for the other.” give us a real picture of development as it is
Explain the statement with appropriate given by the UNDP.
examples.
Q.10 Apart from Income What may be the other
Ans : It is true to say that what may be the goal you will look for? Explain Why? (Write by
development for one may be the destruction for yourself)
the other. For example, Q.11 Explain why the construction of a factory
a. Construction of dam could be a development might not be considered "sustainable
goal for the industrialist, but it would displace the development."
local people, and their livelihood may get Answer: While a factory may boost economic
disrupted. growth, it could lead to air and water pollution,
depletion of natural resources, and disruption of local
b. If there is slum near the high-rise buildings ecosystems, which negatively impacts future
then the people of that high rise building will generations. Sustainable development focuses on
have the developmental goal to remove the slum long-term environmental preservation along with
from that locality which will be a conflicting goal economic progress.
as it would displace the slum people.
Q. 12 Imagine you are a policymaker. How
Question : 9 What is the main criteria used by
would you address the issue of uneven
the World Bank in classifying different
development in different regions of your
countries? What are the limitations of this
country? Propose two specific policies.
criteria, if any? In what respects is the criteria
Answer: One policy could be investing in rural
used by the UNDP for measuring development
infrastructure like roads and electricity to ensure
different from the one used by the World
access to basic services. Another could be
Bank? OR
providing subsidies for education and healthcare
Compare and contrast the criteria used by the in underdeveloped regions to improve human
World Bank and the UNDP to measure capital.
development. Which method gives a better
picture of overall development and why? SECTORS OF INDIAN ECONOMY

Ans : The main criterion used by the World Bank 1. Explain the three sectors of the Indian economy
in classifying different countries is per capita with examples.
income.
Answer:
Limitations of using average income for The Indian economy is classified into three sectors
comparison: based on the type of activities performed:
a. Average income does not tell us the
distribution of income among the people. 1. Primary Sector:
o This sector involves activities where
b. It is just a material criterion for the natural resources are directly used for
comparison. production.
o Example: Agriculture, fishing,
The criteria used by the UNDP for measuring forestry, mining.
development is different from the one used by 2. Secondary Sector:
2
 o This sector involves transforming raw o As more people move to cities, the
materials into finished products. It demand for services such as transport,
includes all manufacturing and communication, retail, and personal
industrial activities. services has increased, contributing to
o Example: Textile factories, steel the growth of the tertiary sector.
plants, bakeries, and construction.
3. Tertiary Sector (Service Sector):
o This sector provides services rather
than goods. It includes activities that 3. Differentiate between organized and
support both primary and secondary unorganized sectors of the economy. Provide
sectors, as well as direct services to examples of each.
consumers.
o Example: Banking, education, health, Answer:
insurance, trade, and transportation.
1. Organized Sector:
o It includes enterprises or workplaces
2. Why has the share of the tertiary sector where employment terms are regular,
increased in India? Mention the factors and workers enjoy security, fixed
responsible for its growth. OR wages, and benefits like health
insurance and pensions.
Which sector has emerged as the largest o Examples: Government jobs,
producing sector in the Indian economy in the last corporate offices, and factories
decade? Give reasons. following labor laws.
o Workers here are protected by various
Answer: laws such as the Minimum Wages
The share of the tertiary sector in India has increased Act, Factories Act, etc.
due to the following factors: 2. Unorganized Sector:
o It consists of small and scattered units
1. Increase in Demand for Services: where employment terms are not
o As incomes rise, people demand more fixed. Workers may receive low
services like education, healthcare, wages and have no security, benefits,
tourism, and entertainment. This leads or social security provisions.
to growth in the service sector. o Examples: Street vendors, small
2. Development of Primary and Secondary shops, daily wage laborers, and
Sectors: agricultural laborers.
o The development of the primary and o This sector lacks proper regulations,
secondary sectors has created a and workers often face exploitation in
demand for services such as terms of wages and working
transportation, banking, and trade, conditions.
boosting the tertiary sector.
3. Globalization and IT Revolution:
o Globalization has increased demand
for IT services and outsourcing jobs 4. Explain the role of the public sector and the
from countries like the USA and private sector in the economy. Why is it important
Europe, leading to growth in the IT to have both?
and communication sectors.
4. Government Initiatives: Answer:
o The government’s focus on improving Public Sector:
infrastructure, tourism, and providing
better public services has contributed • The public sector refers to government-owned
to the expansion of the tertiary sector. entities that aim to provide essential services
5. Urbanization:
3
 to citizens. These enterprises often focus on of modern technology, and small
social welfare rather than profit. landholdings.
• Example: Railways, public hospitals, and 2. Dependence on Monsoons:
electricity boards. o Indian agriculture heavily depends on
• The government invests in infrastructure, the monsoon season, making it
health, and education, ensuring that basic vulnerable to droughts and irregular
services are accessible to all, especially the rainfall.
underprivileged. 3. Fragmented Landholdings:
o Land is divided into small plots,
Private Sector: making large-scale farming
inefficient.
• The private sector consists of businesses 4. Inadequate Infrastructure:
owned by individuals or companies that focus o Lack of proper storage facilities, cold
on making profits. chains, and market linkages results in
• Example: Private banks, IT companies, and a high level of wastage, particularly in
retail businesses. perishable products.
• The private sector is crucial for innovation, 5. Low Income for Farmers:
competition, and economic growth. It often o Many farmers face low and unstable
leads in sectors such as manufacturing, retail, income due to fluctuating prices of
and technology. crops and high input costs.

Importance of Both: Q.6 Workers are exploited in the unorganized

sector. Do you agree with this view? Give reasons
• Having both public and private sectors in support of your answer.
ensures balanced development. The public Answer: It is a fact that the workers are exploited in
sector provides essential services and the unorganized sector due to the following reasons:
regulates sectors while the private sector 1.The unorganized sector consists of small and
promotes efficiency, innovation, and scattered units which are largely outside the control
competition.
of the government.
5. How does the primary sector contribute to the 2.There are rules and regulations but generally these
Indian economy? What challenges does it face? are not followed by the employers.
3.Workers are employed on an irregular basis. They
Answer: are low paid and there is no provision for overtime,
Contribution of the Primary Sector: paid leave, holidays, leave due to sickness and other
facilities e.g., provident funds.
• The primary sector, especially agriculture, is
4.Jobs are not secured. They can be asked to leave
the backbone of the Indian economy. It
provides employment for a large portion of without any reason at the sweet will of the employer.
the population (about 50%) and is a source of Generally, when there is less work due to any reason,
raw materials for industries like textiles and some workers are asked to leave.
food processing. 5.Workers in this sector face social discrimination too
• Agriculture also plays a key role in ensuring because most of them belong to Scheduled Castes,
food security and contributes to exports like
Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes.
tea, coffee, and spices.
Q.7 How do we create more employment in the
Challenges: agricultural sector?
Answer: More employment can be created in the
1. Low Productivity: Agricultural sector if the government takes the
o Agricultural productivity in India is following steps.
low due to outdated techniques, lack

4
 1. Loans could be given to farmers to dig wells o Collateral may not be required but can
to irrigate their land. exploit borrowers due to lack of
2. Seeds and fertilizers could be subsidized. regulation.
3. Dams can be built to irrigate dry areas. o Harsh methods may be adopted by
4. Transport facilities could be increased. moneylender for repayment of loan.
5. Storage facilities could be provided.
6. Industries and other service-related For small-scale industries, the formal sector is
companies could be relocated in rural areas more beneficial because:
so that the underemployed people of the
agricultural sector could find work. • It offers loans at lower interest rates, making
7. More schools could be started to educate the repayment easier.
rural population to help them become • The regulated nature of the formal sector
employable, as underemployment is ensures transparency and fairness in loan
prevalent among farmers. agreements.
Q.8 What is called the ‘final goods? • RBI oversight prevents exploitation, making
it a more secure option for borrowers.
Answer -The goods that reach the consumer is called
the final goods. For example, the value of the biscuits
In contrast, the informal sector may burden small
at Rs. 20/- per packet includes the price of wheat,
industries with high-interest loans, pushing them into
grinding charges, manufacturing charges,
debt traps.
transportation, storage charges and selling charges.
So only the value of the final goods (biscuits) should
be considered for evaluation.
Q.9. How do we get total production of a sector 2. Consider Salim’s situation where credit helped
for a particular year? him make a profit, while Swapna fell into a debt
Answer: The value of final goods and services trap. Reflect on the factors that contributed to
produced in each sector during a particular year their different outcomes. What role does the
provides the total production for that year. It is also availability of formal credit play in such cases?
called GDP.
OR
MONEY AND CREDITS
“Credit sometimes pushes the borrowers into a
1. Analyze the difference between the formal and situation from which recovery is very painful.”
informal sectors of credit. Which one is more Support the statement with examples.
beneficial for small-scale industries, and why?
Answer: The different outcomes for Salim and
Answer: The formal sector of credit includes banks Swapna can be attributed to several factors:
and cooperative societies, whereas the informal
sector consists of moneylenders, traders, friends, and • Salim's Credit Situation:
relatives. o He received credit under favorable
conditions, which allowed him to hire
• Formal Sector: workers and buy raw materials.
o Supervised by the Reserve Bank of o He used the credit productively,
India (RBI). generating profit from a bulk shoe
o Provides loans at lower interest rates. order.
o Requires proper documentation and o His ability to repay the loan on time
collateral. ensured a positive credit experience.
• Informal Sector: • Swapna's Debt Trap:
o Not regulated by any authority. o Swapna borrowed from a
o Charges high-interest rates. moneylender (likely informal sector)
at a high-interest rate.

5
 o Her crop failed due to pest attacks, stability and fairness in the financial system. Its
leading to a loss instead of profit. functions include:
o The inability to repay her loan pushed
her into a debt trap, with rising interest 1. Regulation of Banks:
and the eventual sale of her land. o The RBI supervises all banking
operations, ensuring that banks follow
Role of Formal Credit: guidelines regarding interest rates,
lending practices, and documentation
• If Swapna had access to formal sector credit requirements.
(banks or cooperative societies), she would 2. Issuance of Currency:
have faced lower interest rates and better o The RBI controls the issuance of
repayment terms. currency in India and ensures that
• Formal credit sources offer more support banks maintain adequate cash reserves
during times of difficulty, reducing the to meet customer demands.
chances of falling into a debt trap. 3. Monitoring Loan Distribution:
o The RBI ensures that banks provide
loans not just to profitable businesses
3. Imagine you are a farmer who has taken a loan but also to sectors like small farmers,
from a moneylender but suffered a crop failure. small-scale industries, and self-help
What are the possible steps you can take to avoid groups.
falling into a debt trap? Mention any 3 steps. 4. Liquidity Control:
o The RBI ensures banks maintain a
Answer: To avoid falling into a debt trap after a crop minimum cash reserve, preventing
failure, a farmer can take the following steps: excessive lending and keeping
liquidity in check to stabilize the
1. Seeking Assistance from Formal Credit economy.
Institutions: 5. Consumer Protection:
o Approach banks or cooperative o The RBI monitors interest rates and
societies for refinancing the loan at lending terms to prevent the
lower interest rates. exploitation of borrowers, especially
2. Reschedule or Extend Loan Tenure: in rural and underprivileged sectors.
o Negotiate with the moneylender to
extend the loan repayment period or 6. What do you mean by collateral? Analyze its
reduce the interest rate. This can role in credit transactions with example.
provide more time to recover from the
loss. Answer:
3. Seek Government Aid or Crop Insurance:
o Apply for government schemes or • Collateral:
agricultural insurance programs that o Definition: Collateral is an asset
offer compensation for crop failures. T owned by the borrower, such as
property, vehicles, or deposits, which
4. Why do you think that the share of formal is used as security for a loan.
sector credit is higher for the richer households o Role in Credit: It serves as a
compared to the poor households? (Answer by guarantee for the lender. If the
yourselves) borrower fails to repay the loan, the
lender has the right to seize the
5. Explain the role of the Reserve Bank of India collateral to recover the loan amount.
(RBI) in the formal credit sector. o Examples: Land, buildings, vehicles,
livestock, or any valuable asset.
Answer: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) plays a o Use in Credit: Required by formal
crucial role in the formal credit sector by ensuring institutions (banks, cooperative

6
 societies) for higher-value loans to 8. Consider you are a rural borrower in India.
ensure security. Why might you prefer taking a loan from a formal
source such as a bank rather than from an
informal source like a moneylender? Provide at
least three reasons.
7. Assess the importance of Self-Help Groups
(SHGs) in providing credit in rural areas, Answer:
especially to poor women.
As a rural borrower in India, there are several reasons
Answer: why I would prefer taking a loan from a formal
source such as a bank rather than from an informal
Self Help Groups (SHGs) play a crucial role in source like a moneylender:
providing credit in rural areas, particularly to poor
women, through the following ways: 1. Lower Interest Rates:
o Banks provide loans at much lower
1. Organized Credit System: interest rates compared to
o SHGs organize rural poor, especially moneylenders.
women, into small groups where they o This makes repayment easier and
pool savings and lend to each other. prevents excessive financial burden.
o This organized system allows women 2. Transparency and Security:
to access credit without going through o The formal sector, including banks,
formal banks. follows strict regulations supervised
2. No Collateral Loans: by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
o SHGs provide loans without collateral, o This ensures transparency in loan
making credit accessible to women. agreements, interest rates, and
o This system empowers poor women repayment terms.
by making credit available on simpler 3. Legal Documentation and Collateral
terms. Security:
3. Reasonable Interest Rates: o Although banks require proper
o Unlike informal moneylenders who documentation and collateral for large
charge exorbitant interest rates, SHGs loans, they provide clear and legal
provide loans at reasonable rates. terms.
o This makes SHGs a safe and o In contrast, informal lenders may not
affordable credit source. follow legal procedures and can
4. Empowerment and Income Generation: exploit the borrower with unfair
o Through SHGs, women can borrow to practices if they fail to repay.
start small businesses, thereby
generating income. In summary, formal sources like banks offer better
o Improves their social status and terms in terms of interest rates, transparency, and
contributes to the overall well-being. legal security, making them a safer and more reliable
5. Platform for Social Issues: option for borrowing.
o SHGs act as a platform for women to
discuss and address social issues such 9. How can the formal sectors loan be made
as education, health, and domestic beneficial for poor farmers and workers? Suggest
violence, further contributing to their five measures. (CBSE 2016)
empowerment. Ans. Formal sectors loans can be made beneficial for
poor farmers and workers in the following ways: - 1.
In conclusion, SHGs are essential in rural areas as It should be simple, fast and timely.
they provide easy access to credit, empower women, 2. Process of providing loans should be made easier.
and encourage economic and social development. 3. Create awareness to farmers and workers about
formal sector loans.

7
4. More bank branches should be opened in rural information technology, manufacturing, and
areas. services.
5. The benefits of loans should be extended to poor
farmers and small-scale industries. • Technology Transfer: Globalization has
10. “Deposits with the banks are beneficial to the facilitated the transfer of technology and
depositors as well as nation.” Examine the innovation from developed countries to India.
statement. (CBSE 2016) • Consumer Choices: Indian consumers now
Ans. Benefits to the depositors have access to a wide variety of goods and
1. Bank accepts the deposits and pay interest to the services, both domestic and foreign.
depositor.
2. People’s money is safe with the bank. • Income Inequality: However, globalization
3. People can withdraw the money they require. has also widened the gap between the rich and
Benefits to the nation poor, as benefits are not evenly distributed.
1. Bank use major portion of the deposits to extend
loans.
2. There is huge demand for loans for various Question 2 Discuss the factors that have enabled
economic activities. globalization.
3. Banks mediate between those who have surplus
funds and those who are in need of these funds. Factors that Have Enabled Globalisation:
11. Why is cheap and affordable credit important 1. Technology
for the country’s development? Explain any three
reasons. (CBSE 2018) • Improvements in Transportation:
Ans. Cheap and affordable credit is important for the o Advancements in transportation
country’s development because. technologies, such as faster ships,
1. When money is borrowed at a high rate of interest trains, and airplanes, have reduced the
then borrowers fall into a debt trap. In this case credit cost and time.
pushes the borrower into a situation from which o Example: Container shipping has
recovery is very painful. reduced delays and lowered
2. Formal sectors charge lower rates of interest. transportation costs.
3. This would lead to higher incomes and many • Information and Communication
people could then borrow cheaply for a variety of Technology (ICT):
needs. o The rapid development of
Question 1: What is globalization? How has it communication technologies, such as
impacted the Indian economy? the internet, mobile phones, and
Answer: satellite communication, has allowed
businesses and people across different
Globalization refers to the process of rapid countries to communicate instantly
integration and interconnection between countries and at a minimal cost.
through the exchange of goods, services, information,
and people. It involves opening up economies to 2. Liberalisation of Trade and Investment Policies
foreign trade and investment, leading to the removal
of barriers such as tariffs and quotas. • Trade Barriers Removed:
In India, globalization has had a significant impact: o Governments have increasingly
removed trade barriers, such as
• Economic Growth: It has boosted economic import duties and quotas, this is
growth through increased trade and known as trade liberalisation,
investment opportunities. • Encouraging Foreign Investments:
o Countries allowing foreign
• Employment: It has created job
investment brings in capital,
opportunities, especially in sectors like
technology, and expertise, linking
economies across the globe.
8
 o Example: MNCs like Google, Toyota, • Lower Prices for Consumers: Consumers
and Samsung benefit from foreign trade as it allows access
to a variety of goods and services, often at
3. Role of Multinational Corporations (MNCs) competitive prices.
• Specialization: It encourages countries to
• Global Production Networks:
specialize in the production of goods where
o Establishing production units in
they have a comparative advantage,
different countries to lower the cost.
improving efficiency.
• Bringing Investments and Technology:
o MNCs bring in huge investments and • Technology and Knowledge Transfer: Trade
advanced technologies to host allows the exchange of ideas, technology, and
countries. innovations between countries, benefiting the
economy.
4. Movement of People

• Labour Migration:
o Globalisation has facilitated the GEOGRAPHY
movement of people across borders,
mainly for employment and RESOURCE AND DEVELOPMENT
education.
• Cultural Exchange: Q.1 Why is resource planning important? What
o Globalization has enabled the are the three stages of resource planning in India?
movement of cultures, languages, and
lifestyles. Answer: Resource planning is important because:
o Example: Indian movies being
watched globally. 1. Conservation: It ensures the sustainable use
and conservation of resources, preventing
Conclusion their over-exploitation.
2. Equitable Distribution: It helps in the fair
These factors have brought the world closer, distribution of resources across different
promoting economic growth, cultural exchange, and regions, balancing regional inequalities.
technological innovations. 3. Future Needs: It addresses the needs of
present and future generations by preventing
resource depletion.
Question 3: What are the effects of foreign trade
on the Indian economy? Three stages of resource planning in India are:

Answer: 1. Identification and Inventory of Resources:

Surveying and mapping resources across
Foreign trade has multiple effects on the Indian
different regions of the country.
economy:
2. Planning for Resource Development:
• Expansion of Markets: It helps Indian Formulating plans for the sustainable
producers access markets beyond domestic utilization and development of resources
boundaries, thus increasing sales and profits. while considering technology, institutions,
and human skills.
• Increase in Competition: Foreign trade 3. Matching Resource Development Plans
introduces competition for Indian producers with National Development Plans:
from global players, which forces Indian Integrating resource development with
companies to improve the quality of their national-level economic and environmental
products. goals.

9
 Answer: Land is considered an important resource
because it provides the base for agriculture,
Q.2 What is sustainable development and Agenda habitation, and various economic activities. It also
21? (3 marks) supports natural ecosystems and biodiversity.

Answer: Sustainable Development: It refers to a Different uses (land utilization) include:

development approach that meets the needs of the
present without compromising the ability of future 1. Agricultural Land: Used for growing crops,
generations to meet their own needs. It emphasizes horticulture, and other agricultural activities.
the balanced use of resources to avoid depletion. 2. Forest Land: Covered by forests, used for
timber, fuelwood, and maintaining
Agenda 21: Agenda 21 is a global action plan biodiversity.
adopted at the Earth Summit (Rio de Janeiro, 1992) 3. Grazing Land: Used for feeding livestock.
aimed at promoting sustainable development 4. Non-Agricultural Land: Used for
worldwide. It focuses on fighting environmental construction of buildings, industries,
damage, poverty, and overpopulation through infrastructure like roads and railways.
comprehensive, globally coordinated efforts. 5. Barren and Uncultivable Land: Land that
cannot be used for agricultural purposes.

Q.3 Explain the consequences of resource over-

exploitation on humans and the environment. Q.5 What are the reasons behind land
degradation? Explain various measures to
Answer: improve it.

1. Environmental Degradation: Over- Answer: Reasons for land degradation:

exploitation leads to the depletion of natural
resources such as forests, water, and minerals, 1. Deforestation: Large-scale removal of forests
causing loss of biodiversity and for agriculture or urbanization leads to soil
environmental damage. erosion.
2. Soil Erosion and Desertification: Overuse of 2. Overgrazing: Excessive grazing by livestock
agricultural land results in soil erosion, leads to the destruction of grasslands and soil
desertification, and reduced agricultural degradation.
productivity. 3. Over-irrigation: Leads to waterlogging and
3. Water Scarcity: Excessive water extraction salinization of soil, especially in dry areas.
lowers groundwater levels, leading to water 4. Mining Activities: Open-cast mining and
scarcity, impacting human populations and improper land use result in loss of topsoil and
ecosystems. land degradation.
4. Health Issues: Pollution caused by industrial 5. Industrial Pollution: Dumping industrial
over-exploitation of resources affects air and waste on land causes contamination and loss
water quality, leading to serious health of soil fertility.
problems for humans, including respiratory
diseases and waterborne illnesses. Measures to improve land degradation:
5. Economic Disparities: Over-exploitation can
lead to unequal distribution of resources, 1. Afforestation: Planting more trees and
worsening poverty and economic inequalities. reforestation programs help in stabilizing the
soil.
2. Control Overgrazing: Managing grazing
practices by rotational grazing methods to
Q.4 Why is land considered an important protect grasslands.
resource? Write its different uses (land 3. Terracing: Construction of terraces on slopes
utilization). prevents soil erosion in hilly areas.
10
 4. Check Dams: Building check dams to 5. Industrial Pollution: Discharge of industrial
prevent surface runoff and enhance waste and chemicals contaminates the soil.
groundwater recharge.
5. Organic Farming: Using organic manure Measures to improve soil degradation:
instead of chemical fertilizers and pesticides
to improve soil health. 1. Afforestation: Planting trees to bind the soil
and prevent erosion.
2. Contour Plowing: Plowing along the
contours in hilly areas to reduce runoff and
Q.6 What are the types of soil? Explain each erosion.
briefly. 3. Organic Farming: Using natural fertilizers
and crop rotation to restore soil fertility.
Answer: 4. Check Dams and Terraces: Reducing soil
erosion and promoting groundwater recharge.
1. Alluvial Soil: Found in river valleys, it is 5. Cover Cropping: Planting cover crops to
highly fertile and suitable for growing crops protect soil from wind and water erosion.
like rice, wheat, and sugarcane. It has two
types: Khadar (newer alluvium, more fertile)
and Bangar (older alluvium).
2. Black Soil: Found in the Deccan Plateau, it is Q.8 Differentiate between Khadar and Bangar
rich in clay and good for cotton cultivation. It soil.
retains moisture and is also called Regur soil.
3. Red and Yellow Soil: Found in areas of low Answer:
rainfall, it is rich in iron and is suitable for
growing pulses, coarse grains, and oilseeds. 1. Khadar Soil:
4. Laterite Soil: Found in high rainfall areas, it o Newer alluvial soil deposited by rivers
is poor in nutrients but good for tea and coffee during floods.
cultivation after adding fertilizers. o It is more fertile and found near the
5. Desert Soil: Found in arid regions, it is sandy riverbanks.
and low in moisture. It requires proper o Light in color and texture, it supports
irrigation for farming. crops like rice and sugarcane.
6. Mountain Soil: Found in hilly regions, it is 2. Bangar Soil:
rich in organic matter and suitable for o Older alluvial soil deposited away
horticulture and plantation crops. from the riverbeds.
o Less fertile than Khadar due to its age
and leaching of nutrients.
o Darker and more clayey in texture,
Q.7 What are the reasons behind soil suitable for crops like wheat.
degradation? Explain various measures to
improve it. Competency-Based Question 1:

Answer: Reasons for soil degradation: Q1. A farmer in a hilly region faces severe soil
erosion due to heavy rains during the monsoon
1. Deforestation: Loss of vegetation cover season. Which conservation technique would you
exposes soil to erosion. recommend to prevent soil erosion, and why?
2. Over-irrigation: Leads to waterlogging and Explain how this technique works.
salinity in the soil.
3. Excessive Use of Fertilizers and Pesticides: Answer: I would recommend terracing to prevent
Causes soil pollution and reduces fertility. soil erosion in hilly regions.
4. Overgrazing: Livestock tramples the soil,
reducing its fertility and causing erosion.

11
 • Terracing involves creating step-like flat Ans: International union for conservation of nature
surfaces on the slopes, which slows down the and natural resources. (IUCN)
flow of water during heavy rains.
• This technique helps in reducing soil erosion Q.3. Name any three movements which were
by minimizing the speed of water runoff and launched by local communities for the protection
allowing it to percolate into the soil. of forests or wildlife.
• It also helps in trapping soil and nutrients that Ans. i. Chipko Movement ii. Beej Bachao Andolan
would otherwise be washed away. Thus, it iii. Bhairo Dakav Sonchuri
conserves the soil, retains moisture, and
makes the land suitable for farming. SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS
Q1. Write three methods to conserve ecosystem?
Ans.
Competency-Based Question 2:
1. Afforestation should be encouraged.
Q2. India has varied types of soil across its different 2. Aware should be spread among people about the
regions, each suitable for specific crops. Suppose you importance of natural vegetation and wildlife.
are an agricultural advisor. A farmer wants to
cultivate cotton in the Deccan Plateau region. What 3.Using non-conventional sources of energy: For
type of soil is most suitable for cotton, and why? example, Solar, Wind and tidal energy.
Q2. Explain methods of forest conservation adopted
Answer: The most suitable soil for cultivating cotton by government after independence.
in the Deccan Plateau region is Black Soil, also
known as Regur Soil. Ans:
1. Broadcasting Awareness program for people to
• Reason: Black soil is rich in clay, which preserve forest.
retains moisture well. This is beneficial for
cotton, a crop that requires adequate moisture 2. Government established national Parks biosphere
during its growth. reserves and wildlife sanctuaries.
• The soil is also rich in nutrients like calcium
3. The central government announced several
carbonate, magnesium, potash, and lime,
projects for protecting specific animals such as
which are essential for cotton growth.
project tigers.
• Furthermore, the soil's ability to expand when
wet and contract when dry makes it suitable
for deep-rooted crops like cotton.
3. What is the Classification of forests on an
FOREST AND WILDLIFE RESOURCES administrative basis and explain them.

VERY SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS Ans.

Q.1.What is biodiversity? Why is Biodiversity i. Reserved Forest: Regarded most restricted and
important? valuable forest. Local people are prohibited.

Ans: Biodiversity variety of all living things, plants, These forests enjoy judicial protection. More than
animals and microorganisms living on the earth that half of the total forest land has been declared.
are dependent on one another. reserved forests.
i. Co-existence in life forms ii. Resource ii. Protected Forests: Sometimes the local
availability iii. Ecological balance community has got the right to do activities like
Q.2. Which international organization has hunting and grazing because they sustain their
classified existing plants and animal species of the livelihood wholly or partially from forest resources or
world? products. Almost one-third of the total forest area is
protected forest, as declared by the Forest
12
Department. Reserved and protected forests are also (ii) Celebrating Van Mahotsav at community and
referred to as permanent forests. school level.
iii. Unclassed Forest: These are other forests and
wastelands belonging to both government and private
individuals and communities. Q.2 Mention any four major threats to the
population of tigers? Explain the efforts made by
the government to protect them.
Q4. “Forest plays a key role in the ecological Ans.
system” highlight the value of Forest in our life.
(i) Poaching for trade
Ans:
(ii) Shrinking habitat
1. Forest plays a key role in the ecological system as
these are the primary producers on which all other (iii) Project Depletion of prey base species
living beings depend. (iv) Growing human population
2. They support diverse flora and fauna which are (v) The trade of tiger skins and the use of their bones
part of our life. in transitional medicines, especially in
3. They provide us with fruits, flowers, medicine, the Asian countries left the tiger population on the
wood etc. verge of extinction.
5. What is NFP? Efforts made by the government to protect them
Ans. National Forest Policy – to ensure are as under:
environmental stability and maintenance of (i) Tiger, one of the well-publicised wildlife
ecological balance including atmospheric equilibrium campaigns in the world, was launched in 1973.
which are vital for sustenance of all life forms,
human, animal and plant. It also stated that the forest (ii) There are 42 tiger reserves in India covering an
area far lower than the desired 33 percent of area of 37,761 sq km.
geographical area. (iii) Tiger conservation had been viewed not only as
LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS an effort to save an endangered species,

Q. 1 The greatest damage inflicted on Indian but with equal importance as a means of preserving
forests was due to the extension of agriculture. bio types of sizeable magnitude.
Explain. Suggest two ways to increase the area (iv) Some of the tiger reserves of India are Corbett
under forests. National Park in Uttarakhand, Sunderbans
Ans. National Park in West Bengal etc.
•The expansion of agriculture started during the Q.3 “Human Activities affected the depletion of
colonial period. flora and fauna” Explain.
•Between 1951 and 1980, according to the Forest Ans.
Survey of India, over 26,200 km of forest areas was
converted into agricultural lands all over India. I. Overutilization of forests
II. Colonial Plantation
•Substantial parts of the tribal belts, especially in the III. Submerged forest due to multipurpose river
north-eastern and central India, have been deforested projects
or degraded by Shifting Cultivation (jhum), a type of IV. Grazing and fuel wood collection
‘slash and burn’ agricultural method. V. Deforestation for agricultural purposes.
Suggestions: VI. Shifting cultivation is still practiced in
substantial parts of tribal belts.
(i) Planting more trees VII. Mining activities have also resulted in
deforestation.
13
VIII. Environmental pollution and forest fires have 1. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA):
also led to the depletion of forest. Conduct thorough EIAs before any
IX. Overpopulation development project to assess the potential
harm to ecosystems and biodiversity.
Competency-Based Question 1:
Approval should only be granted when
environmental damage can be minimized.
Q: The expansion of agriculture has led to
2. Buffer Zones: Establish buffer zones around
deforestation in many parts of India, especially
sensitive ecological areas like forests and
during the colonial period. Imagine you are a
wildlife reserves. These zones should be free
policymaker tasked with balancing agricultural needs
from industrial activities, and only eco-
and forest conservation in modern India. What
friendly developments should be allowed.
strategies would you implement to prevent further
3. Community Involvement: Involve local
deforestation while supporting agriculture?
communities, especially indigenous groups, in
decision-making processes. Their traditional
Answer: To balance agricultural expansion with
knowledge can help protect ecosystems while
forest conservation, the following strategies could be
promoting sustainable livelihoods.
implemented:
4. Restoration Programs: After development
activities, implement habitat restoration
1. Sustainable Farming Practices: Encourage
programs to rehabilitate the area, ensuring the
the use of sustainable agricultural practices
reintroduction of native plant species and
such as organic farming and crop rotation to
wildlife.
improve soil health without expanding
5. Green Infrastructure: Prioritize green
farmland into forested areas.
infrastructure projects, such as renewable
2. Reforestation and Afforestation: Launch
energy sources (solar, wind) and eco-friendly
large-scale reforestation programs, such as
construction materials, to reduce reliance on
community-driven tree planting initiatives
projects that harm natural ecosystems.
(e.g., Van Mahotsav), to restore degraded
forest areas while promoting agricultural
development.
3. Use of Technology: Employ satellite imagery
Competency-Based Question 3:
and GIS technology to monitor land use,
prevent illegal deforestation, and promote
efficient land-use planning. Q: Tigers in India face various threats, including
4. Policy Support: Implement policies, such as poaching, shrinking habitats, and depletion of prey
providing financial incentives for maintaining species. If you were part of a wildlife conservation
forest cover or using less land-intensive team, what specific measures would you take to
farming methods. protect tiger populations and maintain ecological
balance?

Answer: To protect tiger populations and maintain

ecological balance, the following measures could be
Competency-Based Question 2:
taken:
Q: Human activities such as shifting cultivation,
1. Strengthen Anti-Poaching Laws:
mining, and construction of multipurpose river
a. Implement stricter anti-poaching laws
projects have led to the depletion of flora and fauna
and penalties.
in India. Based on this information, propose a
b. Deploy more forest guards and equip
sustainable model for future development projects
them with modern surveillance tools
that minimize environmental damage.
such as drones and GPS to monitor
tiger habitats.
Answer: A sustainable model for future development
2. Expand Protected Areas:
projects should include the following:

14
 a. Increase the size of protected areas 4. Plantation Farming: A form of commercial
such as tiger reserves and national farming where a single crop is grown on a
parks. large scale for the market. Crops such as tea,
b. Ensure that these areas are connected coffee, rubber, and sugarcane are grown on
through wildlife corridors to allow plantations. It requires good management and
safe movement of tigers and other capital investment.
animals.
3. Prey Species Management: Focus on
conserving and increasing prey species in
tiger habitats. Q.2. Differentiate between:
4. Community Engagement: Work closely
with local communities to reduce human- (i) Intensive Subsistence and Commercial
wildlife conflict. This could include offering Farming
alternative livelihoods to people who depend
on forest resources or compensating them for • Intensive Subsistence Farming: Focuses on
livestock losses. growing food mainly for family consumption,
5. Conservation Awareness: Launch awareness using small landholdings, and relying on
campaigns to educate the public on the manual labor. Fertilizers and traditional tools
importance of tiger conservation and how are used to maximize production. Rice, wheat,
preserving tigers helps maintain a balanced and maize are common crops.
ecosystem. • Commercial Farming: Produces crops
primarily for sale in the market. It uses large
By implementing these strategies, we can ensure the areas of land, heavy machinery, and advanced
survival of tigers and protect biodiversity in India. technology. The goal is profit, and crops like
cotton, sugarcane, and wheat are grown.
AGRICULTURE
(ii) Intensive Subsistence and Primitive
Q.1. Briefly explain the different types of farming. Subsistence Farming

Answer: Farming in India is classified into different • Intensive Subsistence Farming: Uses
types based on the methods and resources used: advanced techniques and more labor to
maximize output from small plots of land. It
1. Primitive Subsistence Farming: This is the is practiced in densely populated areas and
oldest form of farming. Farmers use simple aims to produce enough food for the family
tools and family labor to grow food crops and some surplus for sale.
mainly for their own consumption. It relies on • Primitive Subsistence Farming: Involves
monsoon, natural fertility of the soil, and low productivity and traditional methods. It is
environmental conditions. Shifting cultivation mainly for self-sustenance, using basic tools
and slash-and-burn methods are part of this. like hoes and plows. Shifting cultivation and
2. Intensive Subsistence Farming: Common in slash-and-burn are common methods, and
densely populated regions, it involves crops include tubers and millets.
growing crops on small plots of land. Farmers
use more labor and fertilizer to increase
productivity. The output is mainly for local
consumption, with rice being a common crop Q.3. Briefly describe the cropping
in this method. pattern/cropping seasons.
3. Commercial Farming: This type of farming
is focused on producing crops for sale in the Answer: India has three major cropping seasons:
market. It involves large areas of land,
mechanized tools, and significant capital 1. Kharif: This season lasts from June to
investment. Crops like sugarcane, cotton, and September, depending on the arrival of the
wheat are typically grown under this system. monsoon. Crops grown during this period
15
 include rice, maize, jowar, bajra, cotton, and (viii) Jute: Requires high temperature, heavy rainfall,
groundnut. Harvesting occurs in autumn. and humid climate. Major regions: West Bengal,
2. Rabi: Rabi season spans from October to Bihar, Assam, and Odisha.
March. Crops are sown in winter and
harvested in spring. Common crops include
wheat, barley, mustard, and peas.
3. Zaid: This is a short season between the Rabi Q.5. What are the technological and institutional
and Kharif seasons, from March to June. It reforms taken by the government to improve the
includes crops like watermelon, cucumber, lives of medium and small farmers?
and muskmelon, which require warm weather.
Answer: To improve the condition of farmers,
Each cropping season is influenced by climate, especially small and medium farmers, the
rainfall, and the availability of water for irrigation. government has implemented several technological
and institutional reforms:

1. Land Reforms: Measures like the abolition

Q.4. Write the requirements for the growth of the of the Zamindari system, consolidation of
following crops with their region of growth: landholdings, and providing ownership rights
to tenants were introduced.
(i) Rice: Requires high temperature (above 25°C), 2. Green Revolution: The introduction of high-
high humidity, and rainfall over 100 cm. Major yielding varieties (HYVs) of seeds, use of
regions: West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, and Tamil chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and better
Nadu. irrigation facilities helped boost productivity.
3. Subsidies: The government provides
(ii) Wheat: Requires a cool growing season and subsidies on fertilizers, seeds, and agricultural
bright sunshine at harvest. Rainfall of 50-75 cm is equipment to reduce costs for farmers.
ideal. Major regions: Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, 4. Kisan Credit Card (KCC): It provides easy
and Madhya Pradesh. access to affordable credit to farmers for crop
cultivation and personal needs.
(iii) Maize: Requires a temperature of 21°C to 27°C 5. Minimum Support Price (MSP): The
and moderate rainfall. Major regions: Karnataka, government declares a minimum price for
Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Andhra Pradesh. certain crops to ensure that farmers get a fair
price for their produce, preventing
(iv) Sugarcane: Requires hot and humid climate with exploitation by middlemen.
temperature ranging between 21°C and 27°C and 6. Irrigation Schemes: Large-scale irrigation
rainfall of 75-100 cm. Major regions: Uttar Pradesh, projects like dams and canals have been
Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. constructed to improve water supply for
agriculture.
Tea: Requires a cool climate, well-distributed rainfall 7. Crop Insurance: Schemes like the Pradhan
(150-300 cm), and frequent showers. Major regions: Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana provide insurance
Assam, West Bengal (Darjeeling), Tamil Nadu, and against crop failure due to natural disasters,
Kerala. pests, or diseases.

(vi) Coffee: Requires a warm and humid climate with

rainfall of 100-200 cm. Major regions: Karnataka,
Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. Q.6. What are the impacts of globalization on
Indian farmers?
(vii) Cotton: Requires high temperature, light
rainfall, 210 frost-free days, and bright sunshine. Answer: Globalization has had both positive and
Major regions: Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Madhya negative impacts on Indian farmers:
Pradesh.

16
 1. Access to New Markets: Farmers can now • The ocean waters contain vast quantities of
sell their produce in international markets, minerals like common salt, magnesium, and
potentially earning higher profits, especially various salts, while the ocean beds are rich in
for cash crops like cotton, coffee, and tea. manganese nodules.
2. Adoption of Advanced Technology:
Exposure to global agricultural technologies
and practices has led to the modernization of
farming techniques, increasing productivity. 2. Question: Describe the importance of ferrous
3. Increased Competition: Indian farmers face minerals in industrial development.
competition from international players. Large-
scale foreign farms with advanced Answer: Ferrous minerals are crucial to industrial
technologies sometimes outcompete small development as they form the backbone of many
Indian farmers, affecting their incomes. industries:
4. Price Fluctuations: Global market price
fluctuations, especially in commodities like • Iron ore, which constitutes a large part of
cotton and sugarcane, can make incomes ferrous minerals, is essential for steel
unpredictable for Indian farmers. production, which supports industries such as
5. Shifts in Crop Patterns: Global demand construction, automobiles, shipbuilding, and
influences what farmers grow. More emphasis machinery.
on cash crops has shifted attention away from • Manganese is another vital ferrous mineral
traditional food crops, sometimes resulting in used in steel manufacturing. It is essential for
food insecurity. producing alloys like ferro-manganese and for
6. Corporate Farming: The entry of manufacturing products such as bleaching
multinational companies into Indian powder and paints.
agriculture has sometimes benefitted farmers • The abundance of ferrous minerals in India
through contract farming, but it also raises provides a strong foundation for its industrial
concerns about loss of independence and sector, supporting a wide range of
exploitation. manufacturing processes.
• The mining and export of ferrous minerals
MINERALS AND ENERGY RESOURCE like iron ore significantly contribute to India’s
economy, with important reserves found in
1. Question: Explain the different modes of Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka,
occurrence of minerals. and Goa.

Answer: Minerals occur in different forms

depending on the type of rocks and processes
involved in their formation: 3. Question: Discuss the significance of non-
conventional energy sources in India.
• In igneous and metamorphic rocks,
minerals occur in cracks, crevices, faults, or Answer: Non-conventional energy sources are
joints. Smaller occurrences are called veins, becoming increasingly important in India due to
while larger ones are called lodes. several reasons:
• In sedimentary rocks, minerals are found in
beds or layers, which form as a result of • Sustainability: Fossil fuels like coal, oil, and
deposition, accumulation, and concentration gas are depleting, and there is a need for
in horizontal strata. renewable energy sources such as solar, wind,
• Some minerals are formed due to the tidal, and biomass to meet future demands.
decomposition of surface rocks. As soluble • Environmental impact: Renewable energy
constituents are removed, ores accumulate in sources have minimal environmental impacts
the residual mass of weathered material. compared to fossil fuels, which contribute to
• Alluvial deposits of minerals can be found in pollution and climate change.
sands of valley floors and at the base of hills.
17
 • Energy security: Non-conventional energy Answer: Conservation of mineral resources is crucial
sources help reduce dependence on imported for both the environment and the economy:
fossil fuels, promoting energy security for the
country. • Sustainable development: By conserving
• Solar energy: India, being a tropical country, minerals, we ensure that future generations
has a vast potential for solar energy, and can benefit from these resources, leading to
technologies like photovoltaic cells can long-term economic sustainability.
convert sunlight directly into electricity. • Environmental protection: Reduced
• Wind energy: India is a "wind superpower," extraction of minerals helps in preserving
with large wind farms in Tamil Nadu, ecosystems, reducing land degradation, and
Gujarat, and Rajasthan. preventing pollution of air and water bodies.
• Harnessing non-conventional energy • Energy efficiency: Using minerals more
resources will help in reducing carbon efficiently and recycling them minimizes the
emissions and creating a sustainable energy need for new mining operations, which helps
future. in reducing the environmental impact.
• Economic benefits: Conserving minerals
reduces the cost associated with extraction
and processing, leading to lower production
4. Question: Explain the environmental issues costs and increased profitability for industries.
caused by coal mining. • Resource availability: Since mineral deposits
are finite and non-renewable, conserving
Answer: Coal mining creates several environmental them ensures that they are available for
problems: essential industrial processes in the future.

• Land degradation: Mining operations cause The following are the three methods of
deforestation and destruction of ecosystems, conserving minerals. • Minerals have to be
leading to a loss of biodiversity and disruption used in a planned and sustainable manner.
of habitats.
• Air pollution: The release of coal dust and Improved technologies should be evolved to
harmful gases like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen make use of low-grade ores at low costs.
oxides during mining and burning of coal
leads to air pollution, affecting human health Recycling metals, using scrap metals and
and contributing to global warming. other substitutes would help in the
• Water pollution: Mining operations can conservation of minerals.
result in the contamination of nearby water
bodies with toxic chemicals, which can harm Using better mining methods will also help to
aquatic life and pollute drinking water reduce wastage.
sources.
• Solid waste: Coal mining generates large
amounts of solid waste, which can lead to
land pollution if not managed properly. 6. Question: Describe the various uses of natural
• Greenhouse gases: The burning of coal gas and its significance as an energy source.
releases large amounts of carbon dioxide, a
greenhouse gas that contributes to global Answer: Natural gas is a vital and clean source of
warming and climate change. energy with several applications:

• Energy source: It is used for heating,

electricity generation, and as fuel in domestic,
5. Question: How does the conservation of mineral industrial, and commercial sectors.
resources benefit the environment and economy? • Industrial raw material: Natural gas is a key
Highlight any three measures to conserve them. raw material in the petrochemical industry,

18
 used to produce chemicals, fertilizers, and o Nuclear energy provides a significant
plastics. amount of electricity without emitting
• Power generation: It is widely used in power greenhouse gases, making it a clean
plants for generating electricity, offering an energy source.
alternative to coal and reducing carbon o It is highly efficient and can produce
emissions. large amounts of energy from small
• Transportation: Compressed Natural Gas amounts of fuel.
(CNG) is used as a clean and efficient fuel for o It reduces dependence on fossil fuels,
vehicles, contributing to lower air pollution promoting energy security.
compared to gasoline or diesel. • Challenges:
• Environmental benefits: Being a cleaner o There is a risk of nuclear accidents,
fossil fuel, natural gas emits fewer pollutants which can have catastrophic
and greenhouse gases, making it a preferred environmental and human health
choice for sustainable energy use. consequences.
o Disposal of radioactive waste is a
major challenge due to its long-lasting
harmful effects.
7. Question: What are the advantages of o Setting up nuclear power plants is
hydroelectric power, and how is it generated? capital-intensive and requires
advanced technology.
Answer: Hydroelectric power has several o Public opposition and safety concerns
advantages: make it difficult to expand nuclear
energy infrastructure.
• Renewable energy: It is generated using
water, a renewable resource, making it a Q.9 How is energy a basic requirement for the
sustainable energy option. economic development of the country? Explain
• Low operational costs: Once a hydroelectric with examples.
power plant is set up, the cost of running it is
low, as it primarily relies on the natural flow ANS - Reasons:
of water. • Energy is the basic requirement for economic
• Clean energy: Hydroelectric power does not development.
produce air pollution or greenhouse gas • Every sector of national economy—agriculture,
emissions, making it an environmentally industry, transport and commerce need greater energy
friendly energy source. inputs.
• Reliable source: Hydroelectric power is • In the domestic sector also, energy demand, in the
reliable and can be adjusted to meet form of electricity, is growing because of increasing
fluctuating electricity demands. use of electric gadgets and appliances.
• Generation process: Hydroelectric power is • The economic development plans implemented
generated by converting the kinetic energy of since independence necessarily required increasing
flowing or falling water into electrical energy amounts of energy.
using turbines and generators. Because of all this, per capita consumption of energy
is continuously increasing.
Q.10 Why is solar energy called the energy of the
future? Give reasons.
8. Question: What are the benefits and challenges
of nuclear energy in India? India lies in the tropical and sub-tropical zones.
Therefore, there is an abundance and
Answer: Nuclear energy offers several benefits but inexhaustible supply of solar energy. The solar
also poses challenges: energy is also called the energy of future.
because:
• Benefits: (1) It is a renewable source of energy.
(2) It is pollution-free and leaves no residue.
19
(3) It is a universal source of energy and has huge 2. “Agriculture and industry are not exclusive of
potential. each other but move hand in hand.” Give
(4) It is comparatively easy and cheaper to be arguments in favour of this statement.
installed.
(5) It is being successfully used in cooking, water- Answer: Agriculture and industry are closely
heating, space heating, water interdependent and support each other in various
desalination, crop-drying, etc. ways. For example, in agro-based industries,
(6) It is mainly used in agricultural as well as agriculture provides the raw materials necessary for
domestic sectors. industry. Industries like cotton textiles, sugar, and
edible oil rely on agricultural products as their
primary inputs.
Q.11 Why is mining activity often called a “Killer
Industry”. Give three reasons.
Conversely, industries support agriculture by
Ans. a) High risk involved b) Due to poisonous providing essential products such as irrigation pumps,
fumes, mines are vulnerable to workers for fertilizers, pesticides, and machinery that help
pulmonary diseases. c) Risk of collapsing mines improve agricultural productivity. This reciprocal
roofs, and fires in coal mines. d) Water sources get relationship ensures that both sectors grow together,
contaminated. enhancing the overall economy. The manufacturing
sector, through the production of agricultural
MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES equipment and tools, modernizes farming practices,
making agriculture more efficient and productive.
Question 1: Explain how manufacturing
industries contribute to reducing regional
disparities and eradicating unemployment and
poverty in India. Question 3: Identify and explain the factors that
govern the location of industries and discuss how
Answer: Manufacturing industries play a crucial role agglomeration economies benefit industries.
in reducing regional disparities by establishing
industries in tribal and backward areas. By setting up Answer: The location of industries is influenced by
factories in these regions, they provide job several key factors, including:
opportunities, improve infrastructure, and enhance
the local economy. This helps bridge the 1. Raw Materials: Proximity to raw materials
development gap between more developed urban reduces transportation costs and ensures a
areas and rural or tribal regions. steady supply.
2. Source of Energy: Industries require energy
Additionally, manufacturing industries help in to operate, so being close to reliable energy
eradicating unemployment and poverty by offering sources is essential.
jobs in both the secondary (industrial) and tertiary 3. Water Supply: Many industries need water
(services) sectors. These jobs reduce the heavy for processing, making a nearby water source
dependence on agriculture as the primary source of important.
income, providing diverse employment opportunities. 4. Capital and Finance: Availability of capital
As more people gain employment, poverty levels and financial support is necessary for setting
decrease, contributing to overall economic up and expanding industries.
development. 5. Market Demand: Industries are often located
near large markets to minimize distribution
costs and ensure a steady demand for their
products.
Question 2: Discuss how agriculture and industry 6. Skilled Labor: A workforce with the
are interdependent, providing examples of how necessary skills is vital for operating
one supports the other. OR machinery and maintaining production.
7. Transport and Communication: Good
transportation links and communication
20
 networks are essential for raw material Answer: The shift of sugar industries from northern
sourcing and distribution of finished goods. India (Uttar Pradesh and Bihar) to southern states like
Maharashtra and Karnataka is due to several factors:
Agglomeration economies occur when industries
cluster together in urban centers. This clustering • Higher Yield: The southern states have a
allows them to share resources like transportation higher per hectare yield of sugarcane due to
infrastructure, skilled labor, and financial services, favorable climatic and soil conditions,
leading to cost savings and efficiency improvements. especially the black soil.
By operating in proximity to each other, industries • Higher Sucrose Content: The sugarcane
benefit from reduced production costs and access to a grown in southern India has a higher sucrose
larger market, enhancing overall productivity. content, allowing more sugar to be extracted
from less sugarcane.
• Modern Technology: The sugar mills in the
southern states use newer and more efficient
4. Explain the factors that led to the concentration machinery, increasing productivity and
of the cotton textile industry in Maharashtra and reducing wastage.
Gujarat. • Longer Crushing Season: In the southern
states, the crushing season for sugarcane is
Answer: The cotton textile industry in India is longer compared to the north, allowing for a
primarily concentrated in Maharashtra and Gujarat more extended period of sugar production.
due to several favorable factors: • Successful Cooperative Model: The
cooperative sugar mills in southern states are
• Raw Material Availability: These states are managed efficiently, ensuring better
among the major cotton-growing regions, productivity and profitability.
providing an abundant supply of raw cotton.
• Climate: The humid climate of Maharashtra 6. How do industries contribute to environmental
and Gujarat is ideal for spinning cotton degradation, and what are the possible measures
threads, which reduces breakage during the to control it?
production process.
• Port Facilities: Both states have access to Answer: Industries contribute to environmental
ports, which is crucial for exporting cotton degradation in the following ways:
textiles and importing machinery and
technology. • Air Pollution: The emission of gases such as
• Skilled Labor: The availability of a skilled carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon
labor force, familiar with traditional textile monoxide from industrial chimneys lead to air
production, supported the industry's growth. pollution, global warming, and the
• Infrastructure: Well-established transport greenhouse effect.
systems, like railways and roads, help in the • Water Pollution: The discharge of toxic
efficient movement of raw materials and chemicals and waste into water bodies by
finished goods. industries like chemical, paper, and leather
• Market and Capital: Being close to factories leads to water pollution, harming
commercial centers like Mumbai, these states aquatic life.
provide access to capital markets and • Noise Pollution: The high intensity of noise
consumer bases, which further enhances the from industrial machinery, drilling, and sirens
industry’s development. causes irritation, hearing impairments, and
health issues among nearby residents.
5. Discuss the reasons for the shift of sugar • Land Degradation: Mining activities for raw
industries from northern India to southern states materials cause deforestation, soil erosion,
like Maharashtra and Karnataka. and loss of biodiversity, leading to land
degradation.

Measures to Control Environmental Pollution:

21
 • Careful Industrial Planning: Industries • Irregular Power Supply: The unreliable
should be located away from residential areas supply of electricity and power shortages
and designed to minimize environmental disrupt continuous steel production,
impact. increasing operational costs.
• Alternative Energy: Using non-conventional • Raw Material Constraints: The raw
energy sources like solar and wind can reduce materials required for steel production, like
reliance on fossil fuels, minimizing air iron ore, are available only in certain regions,
pollution. which limits the industry's geographical
• Waste Management: Proper treatment of spread.
industrial waste before disposal and adoption • Poor Infrastructure: Inefficient transport
of landfilling methods for solid waste can and communication infrastructure make it
reduce water and land pollution. difficult to move raw materials and finished
• Use of Modern Equipment: Implementing products efficiently, increasing logistics costs.
modern technology that filters and separates
harmful substances can reduce air and water 8. Explain the role of agro-based and mineral-
pollution from industrial waste. based industries in the Indian economy.

8. Why is the iron and steel industry calling Answer: Agro-based and mineral-based industries
the basic or key industry? What are the play a vital role in the Indian economy in the
challenges faced by the iron and steel following ways:
industry in India?
Answer: The iron and steel industry called the • Agro-based Industries:
basic or key industry because o Employment: These industries
provide employment to millions,
(i) All the other industries- heavy, particularly in rural areas, reducing the
medium and light, depend on it for dependency on agriculture alone for
their machinery. livelihoods.
(ii) Steel is needed to manufacture a o Value Addition: Agro-based
variety of engineering goods. industries add value to agricultural
(iii) Steel is needed for construction products by converting them into
material, defence and medical finished goods like textiles, sugar, and
equipments. edible oil, increasing the income of
(iv) Steel is needed for telephone, farmers.
scientific equipment and a variety o Linkages with Agriculture: These
of consumer goods. industries promote agricultural growth
(v) Production and consumption of by creating demand for raw materials
steel is often regarded as the index like cotton, jute, and sugarcane,
of a country’s development. leading to better agricultural practices
The iron and steel industry in India faces several and productivity.
challenges: • Mineral-based Industries:
o Infrastructure Development:
• High Production Costs: The cost of Industries like iron and steel and
producing steel is high due to expensive raw cement are critical for infrastructure
materials and energy requirements. development, including the
• Limited Availability of Coking Coal: construction of buildings, roads, and
Coking coal, an essential ingredient for steel bridges.
production, is in limited supply within India, o Basic Industries: Mineral-based
making the industry dependent on imports. industries provide raw materials to
• Low Labor Productivity: Labor productivity other sectors, helping in the
in Indian steel plants is lower compared to development of machine tools,
global standards, leading to inefficiencies in construction equipment, and
production. automobiles.
22
 o Foreign Exchange: These industries ii)Helps in the export of goods and brings in
contribute significantly to exports, Valuable foreign exchange.
especially in sectors like iron, steel,
and aluminum, earning valuable iii) It helps in making a country prosperous as
foreign exchange for the country. industries transform raw materials into a
o Technological Advancement: The white variety of furnished goods.
mineral-based industries support
technological advancements by iv)It helps in modernization of agriculture
providing raw materials for which forms the backbone of India’s
electronics, machinery, and economy.
transportation, driving industrial
growth. v) Manufacturing sector contributes to
industrial development which further helps in
Question:9 What factors contribute to the the eradication of poverty and unemployment.
concentration of the jute industry along the
Hooghly River in West Bengal? What are the Q. 11 Discuss the role of NTPC in paving the way
major problems faced by the jute industry in to control environmental degradation.
India?
Ans. National Thermal Power Corporation has a
Answer: The jute industry is concentrated along the proactive approach for preserving the natural
Hooghly River due to favorable factors such as: environment and resources like water, oil, gas and
fuels. This is achieved through the following
• Availability of raw jute from West Bengal. methods:
• Easy access to coal from nearby Raniganj i. Optimum utilization of equipment, adopting the
coalfields for energy. latest techniques and upgrading existing equipment.
• Availability of water from the Hooghly River
for washing and processing jute. ii. Minimizing waste generation by maximizing ash
• A warm and humid climate is suitable for jute utilization.
production. iii. Providing green belts for nurturing ecological
• Good transport facilities and the presence of balances and encouraging afforestation.
Kolkata as a financial and market hub.
iv. Reducing environmental pollution through ash
The jute industry in India faces several problems: pond management, ash water recycling system and
liquid waste management.
• Main jute-producing areas went to
v. Ecological monitoring reviews and online database
Bangladesh after Partition.
management for all its power stations.
• High production costs.
• Declining demand for jute in the international
market.
HISTORY
• Tough competition from synthetic fibers.
NATIONALISM IN EUROPE
Q. 10 Explain the importance of the
manufacturing sector in the economic 1. What do you understand by the term “Nation
development of a country. state?
Ans: - When the majority of the country’s citizens
Ans. Manufacturing industries are considered came to develop a sense of common identity and
the breakdown of economic development for shared history, is called the nation state.
the following reasons:
2. What is the meaning of nationalism? Explain
i)It provides employment to a large number of
Ans: - Nationalism is the feeling of love, oneness and
people by providing them with jobs in
common identity towards own country and its people.
secondary and tertiary sectors.
23
It emerges when people share the same historical, Transport and communication systems were
political and cultural backgrounds. improved.
3. What are the steps taken by French He made Uniform laws for all.
revolutionaries to create a sense of collective
belonging among the citizens of France? He introduced standardized weights, measures, and a
common national currency.
Ans: - Steps taken by French revolutionaries to create
a sense of collective belonging among the citizens of 6. What were the reaction of local population to
France are: - the French rule in conquered area? Explain.

The ideas of la patrie (the fatherland) and le citoyen Ans: - Initially, the rule of the Napoleon Bonaparte
(the citizen). was liked by the local people because of the reforms
taken by him but later they started disliking him
A new French flag was chosen. because he
An elected National Assembly was formed. Increased the taxes.
New hymns were composed, and oaths were taken. Imposed censorship on media and news paper.
Uniform laws for all citizens were introduced. And also started forcing people to join into the
French armies.
Internal customs duties and dues were abolished.
7. Define the idea of liberal nationalism. What
A uniform system of weights and measures was were the demands of liberals?
adopted.
Ans: - The term ‘liberalism’ means “free”. The term
Regional dialects were discouraged and French, liberals usually refer to newly emerged middle-class
became the common language. people during 18th and 19th century.
4. Explain the provisions of Napoleonic code? The demands of liberals were: -
Ans: - Following were the provisions of Napoleonic In political and Social sphere, Liberalism
code Stood for: -: -
Abolition of privileges based on birth. Freedom for the individual and equality of all before
the law.
Equality before the law
government by consent.
Secured the right to property.
A constitution and representative government
Abolition of serfdom
through parliament.
Formation of Secular State
The end of autocracy/ monarchy and privilege-based
Gave women inheritance rights. society.

5. What were the Administrative Reforms taken The secured right over private property.
by the Napoleon Bonaparte?
In terms of Economic sphere, Liberalism Stood
Ans: - The Administrative Reforms taken by the for: -
Napoleon Bonaparte: -
The freedom of markets
He abolished the feudal system.
The abolition of state-imposed restrictions on the
Restriction on trade was removed. movement of goods and capital.
Common currency for trade.

24
Promotion of trade by State/ Govt. Merit should be the basis of the social position of a
person.
8. How were the aristocrats of Europe United? The middle class gave a platform to the people who
were fighting against the increasing taxes and food
Ans: - Socially and politically, a landed aristocracy shortage.
was the dominant class so they were :-
They spread the new ideas of liberalism among the
United by a common way of life common people using pamphlets, newspapers etc.
Their families were often connected by ties of 11. Give An account of German unification OR
marriage. How Germany got unified?
They owned estates in the countryside and also town- Ans: - The German regions were under the control of
houses. Austria, Denmark, France and Prussia.
They spoke French for purposes of diplomacy and in In the year 1861, Prussian king Kaiser William took
high society. the leadership and appointed otto von Bismarck as
prime minister and give him the responsibility to
They had a common goal to preserved the Monarchy.
unify the nation.
9. Write the provisions of the Treaty of Vienna.
Prussia fought and won the three wars over seven
Ans: -The provisions were: - years – with Austria, Denmark and France.

The Bourbon dynasty was restored to power Finally, On 18 January 1871, Kaiser William I was
(Restoration of Monarchy). proclaimed as the king of new German Empire.

France lost the territories it had annexed under 12. Write About Frankfurt parliament.
Napoleon.
Ans: - In the German regions, a large number of
A series of states were set up on the boundaries of political associations (members were middle-class)
France to prevent French expansion. came together in the city of Frankfurt and decided to
vote for an all-German National Assembly. They
Austria was given control of northern Italy. drafted a constitution for a German nation to be
headed by a monarchy subject to a parliament.
German confederation of 39 states were left However, the attempt was failed due to strong
untouched. opposition of monarchs and lower support base of
Russia was given part of Poland while Prussia was common people. This assembly is known as
given a portion of Saxony. Frankfurt parliament.

The kingdom of the Netherlands was set up in the 13. Why were the years of 1830’s of great
north and Genoa was added to Piedmont in the south. hardship in Europe? Explain five reasons.
The decade of 1830 brought great economic hardship
10. Which was the main group behind the
or crisis in Europe due to the following reasons:
revolution in Europe? Explain their role in the
revolution. (i) There was an enormous increase in population all
Ans: -The main groups behind the revolution were over Europe.
newly emerged middle-class people. (ii) Migration of rural people to the cities created
This group was against the monarchy. problems.

They demanded abolition of privileges based on (iii) Small scale producers faced stiff competition
birth. from large producers.

25
(iv) These products imported from rural areas were Ans: - Culture played an important role in creating
obviously cheaper than the town-made products. the idea of the nation in the following ways: -
(v) Due to high demand for foods, the price of food Art and poetry, stories and music helped to express
grain increased. and shape nationalist feelings.
14. Explain about the Italian unification. Or What Their idea was to express the feeling of nationalism
was the role of CM Cavour, Garibaldi in the with help from Art, music, Folk lore, Folk tale etc.
unification of Italy?
It criticized the glorification of reason and science
Ans: - Italy was divided into seven states and all the and focused instead on emotions, intuition and
states were ruled by different dynasties. mystical feelings.
To make Italy as a nation state Giuseppe Mazzini, The emphasis on vernacular language and the
King Victor Emmanuel II, Chief Minister Cavour and collection of local folklore was used to carry the
Giuseppe Garibaldi played a very important role. modern nationalist message to large audiences who
were mostly illiterates.
During the 1830s, Giuseppe Mazzini tried to unify
Italian region with the help of secret society. Some examples are,
Later on, King Victor Emmanuel II, the ruler of Re-Discovery of German culture among the common
Sardinia Piedmont, took the responsibility to unify people with the help of - das volk.
the kingdom.
Polish people were united against Russia to protect
He appointed Chief Minister Cavour, who unified a their mother tongue.
major part of Italy through a tactful diplomacy and
war while Giuseppe Garibaldi took the control of 17. Briefly explain the difficulties to bring
South Italy with the help of a large number of armed Nationalism and making nation states in
volunteers. Europe.

Finally, in 1861 Victor Emmanuel II was proclaimed Ans: - There were many difficulties, some of them
king of united Italy. were: -

15. Explain the process of British Unification. / Absence of ‘nation-states

Explain strange case of British unification.
People with same culture and language were divided
Ans: - Earlier Britain Were divide into different into kingdoms like Germany and Italy
ethnic groups like 1. English 2. Welsh
Eastern and Central Europe were under autocratic
3. Irish. 4. Scottish. monarchies within the territories of which diverse
people lived.
Formation of British nation states was the result of
long-drawn-out process. They did not see themselves as sharing a collective
identity or a common culture.
English nation steadily grew in wealth, importance
and power. It was able to extend its influence over spoke different languages and belonged to different
the other nation. The Act of Union (1707) signed ethnic groups.
between England and Scotland, and forcible
incorporation of Ireland in 1801 resulted into the NATIONALISM IN INDIA
formation of the United Kingdom of Great Britain. 1. What was the impact of first world war on
16. How the culture played an important role in Indians?
creating the idea of Nationalism in Europe? or Ans: -
What do you mean by romanticism? How it i. To meet defence Expenditure, customs
brought the feeling of nationalism? duties and income tax were raised.

26
 ii. The demands for war supplies led to Ans: - The incident took place on 13 April
the sharp rise in prices of essential 1919 at Amritsar when General o Dyer
goods, which badly affected the ordered to open fire on the people, gathered to
common people. celebrate Baisakhi festival. Many people were
iii. Forcible recruitment of Indians in killed.
Army. 5. What was Rowlett Act? How the people of
iv. Deaths of Indian Army. India reacted against it?
v. Indian industries flourish because of Ans: - It was an act passed in 1919 to
breaking of supply chain from Britain. suppress the political activities in India. The
act allowed the executive to detain the
2. Describe the three successful movement led political Prisoner for 2 years without fair trial.
by Mahatma Gandhi in his early years in The Rowlatt Act of 1919 was opposed in the
India. following manner: -
Ans: - i. Rallies were organised in various
i. Indigo Movement (1916): - The cities.
British planters forced the farmers to ii. Workers went on strike.
cultivate indigo on 3/20th of the total iii. Shops were closed down.
land. Peasants did not want to grow iv. The infamous Jallianwala Bagh
because. massacre also took place because of
a. The planters forced the peasants to the opposition of Rowlatt Act
sell indigo at a low price. 6. Briefly explain the Khilafat issue? Or
b. Cultivation of indigo led to explain the opportunity used by Mahatma
decrease in soil fertility. Gandhi to bring Hindu and Muslim
So, in 1916, under the leadership of together against British Govt.
Mahatma Gandhi, they launched the Ans: - The First World War had ended with
indigo movement in Champaran, the defeat of Ottoman Turkey. Rumours were
Bihar. It was the first successful spared that the Khalifa post will be abolished
movement of Gandhi in India. So to defend the Khalifa, a Khilafat
ii. Kheda Satyagraha (1917): - It was the Committee was formed in Bombay in March
movement launched by Mahatma 1919 under the leadership of Ali brothers
Gandhi against the unfair demand of (Muhammad Ali and Shaukat Ali). Mahatma
taxes, even after crop failure. Gandhi Gandhi also saw the issue as an opportunity to
asked the peasants to refuse to pay bring people together and united mass action.
taxes. 7. How was the NCM organised in town and
iii. Ahmedabad cotton Mill strike (1918):- cities?
The movement was launched by Ans: - The movement started with middle-
Gandhi in the support of the demand class participation in the cities.
made by cotton mill workers, Which Thousands of students left government-
was 35% hike in Wages and a better controlled schools and colleges, headmasters
working condition. This was also a and teachers resigned.
successful movement. Lawyers gave up their legal practice.
The council elections were boycotted.
Foreign goods were boycotted, liquor shops
3. Explain the idea of Satyagraha. picketed, and foreign cloth burnt in huge
Ans: - The idea of ‘Satyagraha’ emphasized bonfires.
the power of truth and the need to search for 8. Write the limitations of NCM in the cities.
truth. It suggested that if the cause was true, if Or Why did the NCM gradually slowdown
the struggle was against injustice, then in the cities?
physical force was not necessary to fight the Ans: - The Non-cooperation Movement
oppressor. gradually slowed down in cities for a variety
4. Discuss the infamous incident of of reasons:
Jallianwala Bagh.
27
i. Expensive khadi cloth: - Khadi cloth was
more expensive than mill cloth. Poor • They believed that Gandhi Raj was
people could not afford to buy it. coming, and everyone would be given
ii. Absence of Alternative Indian land in their own village.
institutions:- Alternative Indian
institutions were not there which could be 11. Why did the peasants of Awadh revolted
used in place of the British ones So during NCM? What was their demand and
students and teachers began trickling back how did they saw the NCM?
to government schools and lawyers joined Ans: - The peasants of Awadh revolted
back work in government courts. because:-
iii. People were tired of the long year’s i. Talukdars and landlords
movement. demanded high rents and a
iv. The economic condition of people was variety of other taxes from the
started deteriorating. peasants.
ii. Peasants had to do begar and
work at the landlords’ farms
9. Explain the Role of Alluri Sitharaman without any payment.
Raju In Andhra Pradesh during Non- iii. Tenants had no security of
cooperation movement. tenure over the leased land.
Ans: - In the Gudem Hills of Andhra Pradesh For the peasant of Awadh the NCM
a militant guerrilla movement spread in the was a movement against high rent and
early 1920s led by Alluri Sitaram Raju. He landlords. They demanded reduction of
claimed that he had a variety of special revenue, abolition of begar, and social boycott
powers. of oppressive landlords.
His role in inspiring the rebels with i. The movement was led by Baba
Gandhiji’s ideas was as- Ramchandra.
• He talked of the greatness of ii. As the movement spread in 1921, the
Mahatma Gandhi and houses of talukdars and merchants
• Praised Non-Cooperation Movement, were attacked, bazaars were looted,
said he was inspired by it. and grain hoards were taken over.
• Persuaded people to wear khadi and iii. Nai – dhobi bandhs were organized by
give up drinking. panchayats.
10. “The plantation workers in Assam had 12. Explain any three reasons for the
their own understanding of mahatma lukewarm response of some Muslim
Gandhi and the notion of organizations to the Civil Disobedience
Swaraj/Independence.” Support the Movement.
statement. Ans: - Three reasons for lukewarm response
Ans: - of some Muslim organizations to Civil
Disobedience Movement were:
• Under the Inland Emigration Act of i. After the decline of Non-cooperation-
1859 plantation workers were not Khilafat movement, a large section of
permitted to leave the Tea Gardens Muslims felt alienated from the
without permission. Indian National Congress.
• So, for plantation workers in Assam, ii. The association of Congress with
freedom meant the right to move Hindu religious nationalist groups like
freely in and out. the Hindu Mahasabha made the
Muslims suspicious of Congress
• When they heard of the Non- motives.
Cooperation Movement thousands of iii. The frequent communal clashes
workers defied the authorities, left the deepened the distance between the
plantations and headed home. two communities.

28
 iv. Difference over the question of Ans: - In following ways, Cultural processes
representation in the future assemblies helped in creating a sense of collective
were also a cause of a lukewarm belonging:-
response. i. Use of figures or images to attach the
13. How did the Salt March become an Identity of nation visually. Like the
effective tool of resistance against image of Bharat Mata
colonialism? Explain. ii. Nationalists started recording and
Ans: - Mahatma Gandhi found in salt a using folklores and tales to give a true
powerful symbol that could unite the nation picture of traditional culture that had
because Salt was one of the most essential been corrupted and damaged by
food items consumed by the rich and poor outside forces.
alike. iii. Restoration of a sense of pride by
On 31st January 1930 he sent an telling stories of Nation’s rich pasts
ultimatum to Viceroy Irwin stating eleven iv. Carrying the tricolour flag and holding
demands, one of which was the demand to it aloft during marches became a
abolish Salt Tax. He had threatened to launch symbol of defiance and promoted a
a civil disobedience campaign. sense of collective belonging.
Mahatma Gandhi started his famous Salt v. Indians began looking into the past to
March with his 78 trusted volunteers. rediscover the glorious developments
He walked over 240 miles, from Sabarmati to in ancient times in the field of art,
the Gujarati coastal town of Dandi. science, mathematics, religion and
It took 24 days to reach Dandi. During the culture, etc.
march Mahatma Gandhi made aware people 16. Explain any four features of the Civil
about the meaning of Swaraj. Disobedience Movement.
On 6th April, he reached Dandi and violated Ans: - Features of Civil Disobedience
the salt law by manufacturing it. This marked Movement:
the beginning of the Civil Disobedience
Movement. i. People were now asked not only to
14. Describe the main features of ‘Poona Pact’. refuse cooperation with the British but
Or Briefly explain about Poona pact. also to break colonial laws.
Ans: - The Poona Pact: ii. Foreign clothes were boycotted and
(i) In 1930, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar people were asked to picket liquor
demanded separate electorates for shops.
Dalits in the Second Round Table iii. Peasants were asked not to pay
Conference organised in London. revenue and chaukidari taxes.
(ii) When British accepted this demand iv. Students, lawyers and village officials
(Known as Communal Award), were asked not to attend English
Gandhiji started a fast into death. He medium schools, colleges, courts and
believed that separate electorates for offices.
Dalits would slow down the process of 17. How did different social groups participate
their integration into society. in the Civil Disobedience Movement?
(iii) Later, Ambedkar and Gandhi came to Explain with examples.
an agreement, known as Poona pact Ans: -
1932. (i) Rich peasants: -Being producers of
(iv) The Poona pact gave the depressed commercial crops, they were hard hit by
classes (later to be known as Schedule trade-depression and falling prices.
castes) reserved seats in provincial and a. For them the fight for Swaraj was a
central legislative councils. struggle against high revenues.
b. They were not interested in the lowering
15. How did cultural processes help in creating of the revenue demand from small
a sense of collective belongingness in India? peasants.
Explain.
29
 (ii)Small farmers/ poor peasants: - for European conquest. The spread of diseases like
smallpox was more deadly than military weapons in
a. They wanted unpaid rent to be remitted. decimating native populations.
b. They joined the radical movements led by
the socialists and communists. 3. What role did the Indian subcontinent play in
pre-modern global trade?
(iii) Traders/Merchants/Industrialists: -
a. They reacted against colonial policies that Answer:
restricted business activities.
The Indian subcontinent was central to the bustling
b. They wanted protection against imports of
trade networks across the Indian Ocean before
foreign goods and a rupee-sterling foreign
European explorers found new sea routes to Asia and
exchange ratio that would discourage
America. Goods, people, and knowledge crossed the
imports.
Indian Ocean, and India played a crucial role in this
c. They refused to sell or buy imported
trade. Its textiles and spices were in high demand,
goods.
and the subcontinent was an important hub for
(iv) Workers: - Their demand was a better
connecting Asia with other parts of the world.
working condition and a fair wage for
work
18. The Civil Disobedience Movement was
different from the Non-Cooperation 4. How did the introduction of American crops
Movement”. Support the statement with influence European societies?
examples. (Write yourself)
Answer:
THE MAKING OF A GLOBAL WORLD
The introduction of American crops, particularly the
1. What were the Silk Routes, and how did they potato, had a significant impact on European
contribute to global trade and cultural exchange? societies. Crops brought by European colonists from
the Americas helped improve the diet of Europe's
Answer: poor, leading to better health and longer life
The Silk Routes were a network of trade routes that expectancy. For instance, in Ireland, the poor became
connected Asia with Europe and northern Africa, heavily reliant on potatoes. However, when a disease
existing since before the Christian Era and thriving destroyed the potato crop in the mid-1840s, it caused
until the 15th century. These routes were vital for the a devastating famine, leading to the death of
trade of goods such as Chinese silk, Indian textiles, hundreds of thousands.
spices, and Chinese pottery. In return, precious PRINT CULTURE AND MODERN WORLD
metals like gold and silver flowed from Europe to
Asia. The Silk Routes also facilitated cultural Three Mark Questions and Answers
exchange, spreading religious ideas like Christianity,
1. Write a short note on Indian manuscripts.
Islam, and Buddhism across different regions.
India had a rich tradition of handwritten
2. How did European colonization impact the manuscripts, created in Sanskrit, Arabic, Persian,
indigenous populations of America in the 16th and various vernacular languages. These
century? manuscripts were copied onto palm leaves or
Answer: handmade paper and often featured beautiful
illustrations. They were bound between wooden
European colonization of America, particularly by covers or sewn together for preservation. However,
the Portuguese and Spanish, drastically impacted manuscripts were expensive and fragile, requiring
indigenous populations. The Europeans carried careful handling.
germs, such as those that caused smallpox, to which
2. Give a brief description of the first form of
the indigenous people had no immunity due to their
print technology.
long isolation. These diseases spread quickly and
killed many indigenous communities, paving the way
30
The first form of print technology utilized wooden • Diverse Thinking: Print opened the
blocks that were carved with words or designs, possibility for new ideas and differing
known as relief printing. The carvings were inked, perspectives to emerge.
and then paper was pressed against the block to
transfer the image or text. Due to the thinness of the • Democratic Spirit: It promoted the spirit of
paper, printing was typically done on one side only. people’s rule, laying the groundwork for
The printed sheets were then folded and stitched to democracy.
create books. 6. Write a short note on Martin Luther.
3. “Woodblock print came to Europe after 1295.” Martin Luther was a prominent religious reformer
Give three reasons to explain the above statement. known for his Ninety-Five Theses, which he
• Paper's Introduction: Paper reached published in 1517 to critique practices of the Roman
Europe via the Silk Route in the 11th Catholic Church. His theses gained widespread
century, making printing more feasible. attention due to the print revolution, leading to a
significant division within the Church and initiating
• Marco Polo's Influence: In 1295, Marco the Protestant Reformation. Luther’s translation of
Polo returned to Italy with knowledge of the New Testament sold 5,000 copies in just a few
woodblock printing from China, spreading weeks, demonstrating the powerful impact of print on
this technology. religion.
• Early Adoption in Italy: Following Polo's 7. Write a short note on Gutenberg Printing Press.
return, Italy began producing woodblock
prints, which quickly spread throughout The Gutenberg Press was developed by Johann
Europe. Gutenberg in the 1430s and was a revolutionary
advancement in printing technology. It was based on
4. Why were printed books popular even among improvements to the olive and wine presses. By
illiterate people? 1448, Gutenberg perfected his printing system using
lead moulds for casting metal type. His most notable
• Listening Experience: Many who could not work was the printing of the Bible, producing 180
read enjoyed listening to books being read copies in three years, which significantly sped up
aloud, making literature accessible. book production compared to previous methods.
• Illustrated Stories: Printers published 8. What was the Vernacular Press Act?
popular ballads and folk tales with
illustrations, attracting interest from non- The Vernacular Press Act, enacted in 1878, aimed to
readers. curtail the freedom of the Indian-language press.
Proposed by Lord Lytton, the act sought to prevent
• Community Engagement: These stories vernacular publications from criticizing British
were shared at village gatherings and policies and imposed restrictions on the content that
taverns, enhancing their popularity among could be printed, effectively censoring dissent.
the illiterate population.
9. What is the relevance of the chapter ‘Print
• Public Readings: Writers like Bankim Culture and the Modern World’?
Chandra Chattopadhyay would read their
novels to illiterate audiences, promoting The chapter highlights the importance of print
engagement with print culture. culture as a medium of mass communication,
encompassing newspapers, journals, and books. It
5. Mention any four social values which print illustrates how print facilitated the dissemination of
culture promoted. new ideas and thoughts, shaping societal values and
• Reasoning and Rationality: Print culture fostering informed communities.
encouraged the application of reasoning and 10. “The imperial state in China was the major
rational thought. producer of printed material.” Support this
• Dialogue and Debate: It fostered a culture of statement with examples.
dialogue and debate on various issues.
31
 • Textbook Production: The imperial state • Index of Prohibited Books: The Roman
printed textbooks for the civil service Catholic Church began maintaining an Index
examinations in large quantities. of Prohibited Books from 1558 to control the
dissemination of literature that contradicted
• Merchant Utilization: Merchants relied on Church doctrine.
printed materials for gathering trade
information, demonstrating the integration of • Impact on Muslims: To counteract potential
print in daily life. conversions and maintain control, Muslims
utilized lithographic presses to print Persian
• Literary Preferences: There was a growing and Urdu translations of holy scriptures.
preference among readers for fictional
narratives, poetry, and romantic plays, • Hindu Engagement: The print culture also
reflecting a diverse literary culture. encouraged Hindus to read religious texts in
their vernacular, exemplified by the first
• Women's Contributions: Many wealthy printed edition of the Ramcharitmanas being
women began reading and publishing their published in 1810.
own works, indicating an expanding
readership and participation in literary life. 13. How did the print media affect women in
India?
11. Describe any three difficulties in copying
manuscripts. • Education Initiatives: Liberal husbands and
fathers began educating their daughters at
• Labor-Intensive Process: Copying home, with some even sending them to
manuscripts was an expensive, laborious, schools.
and time-consuming endeavor, limiting
accessibility. • Women's Writings: Many journals published
articles advocating for women’s education,
• Fragility: Manuscripts were fragile and featuring writings by women themselves that
difficult to handle, making them awkward to highlighted their experiences and needs.
transport or read.
• Syllabus for Home Education: Journals
• Changes in Text: Scribes often introduced provided a syllabus along with reading
small changes when copying manuscripts, materials, facilitating home-based schooling
which over time could lead to significant for women.
variations from the original text.
• Social Reform: Novels and articles addressed
women’s issues, such as widowhood and
Five Mark Questions and Answers education, raising awareness and respect for
women’s opinions.
12. Analyse the impact of the print revolution on
religion. • Empowerment through Stories: Literature
began to reflect women's lives and struggles,
• Spread of Irreligious Thoughts: The print fostering a greater interest in their rights and
revolution created fears about the spread of roles within society.
irreligious ideas. Authorities were concerned
that unrestricted printing could disseminate 14. What were the effects of the spread of print
rebellious thoughts. culture for the poor people in 19th century India?

• Division within the Church: In 1517, • Highlighting Class Issues: Writers like
Martin Luther published his Ninety-Five Jyotiba Phule and B.R. Ambedkar brought
Theses, challenging the practices of the attention to class discrimination, spreading
Roman Catholic Church. This sparked the awareness about social inequalities through
Protestant Reformation, leading to a print.
significant schism in Christianity. • Workers’ Voices: The print media provided
a platform for workers to share their

32
 experiences. For example, Keshibaba, a Q1. What is power sharing? Why is power sharing
Kanpur mill worker, published his writings to important in a democracy?
address caste and class exploitation. Answer:
• Establishment of Libraries: By the 1930s, • Power sharing refers to the distribution of
cotton mill workers in Bengaluru established powers and responsibilities among different
libraries to promote literacy and educate levels and organs of the government.
themselves, inspired by social reformers • It is essential in a democracy because it helps
advocating worker rights. prevent conflicts between social groups and
• Nationalism and Empowerment: The spread ensures that no single group or organ has
of print culture contributed to a growing sense complete control.
of nationalism among the poor, providing
them with literature that encouraged political Q2. What caused tensions between the Dutch-
awareness and social justice. speaking and French-speaking communities in
Belgium during the 1950s and 1960s?
15. Explain any two: Answer:
A. Martin Luther was in favour of print and spoke
out in praise of it. • The French-speaking community, though a
minority, was wealthier and more powerful.
• Ninety-Five Theses: Martin Luther’s Ninety- • The Dutch-speaking community, which
Five Theses criticized the Catholic Church benefitted from economic development later,
and encouraged debate, leading to the felt resentment towards this imbalance.
Protestant Reformation. His ideas spread
rapidly through print, allowing him to reach a Q3. Describe the ethnic composition of Sri Lanka.
broad audience. Answer:
• Impact of Print: Luther acknowledged print
as a divine gift, stating that it significantly 1. Sri Lanka is an island nation with a diverse
influenced the spread of new ideas. He population.
believed that printing facilitated intellectual 2. The two major groups are the Sinhala
discussion and reform. speakers (74%) and Tamil speakers (18%).
3. Among Tamils, there are two subgroups: 'Sri
B. The Roman Catholic Church began keeping an Lankan Tamils' (13%) and 'Indian Tamils'.
Index of Prohibited books from the mid-sixteenth 4. The Sri Lankan Tamils mostly live in the
century. north and east.
5. Sinhala people are mainly Buddhists, while
• Control of Religious Literature: The rise of Tamils are mostly Hindus or Muslims.
popular religious literature led to various 6. About 7% of the population is Christian,
interpretations of faith, which troubled the including both Tamil and Sinhala people.
Roman Catholic Church. To maintain
doctrinal authority, the Church imposed strict
Q4. What were the majoritarian measures taken
controls over publishers.
by the Sri Lankan government to establish
Sinhala supremacy?
Answer:
DEMOCRATIC POLITICS 1. In 1956, Sinhala was made the only official
language, sidelining Tamil.
POWER SHARING 2. A policy was introduced giving preference to
Sinhala speakers in university admissions and
Short Answer Questions government jobs.
3. Buddhism was given special status, making it
a state-promoted religion.

33
 These measures led to feelings of alienation 1. Horizontal Power Sharing: Power is shared
among Sri Lankan Tamils. among different organs of government
(legislature, executive, judiciary). Example:
Q5. Why did a civil war break out in Sri Lanka, India's system of checks and balances.
and what were its consequences? 2. Vertical Power Sharing: Power is shared
Answer: between different levels of government
(national, state, local). Example: The division
• The civil war in Sri Lanka began due to of powers between central and state
tensions between Tamil and Sinhalese governments in India.
communities over majoritarian policies that 3. Power Sharing Among Social Groups:
marginalized Tamils. Different social groups get representation in
Results: government. Example: Reserved seats for
SCs, STs, and OBCs in Indian legislatures.
1. Thousands of people from both communities 4. Power Sharing Among Political Parties,
were killed. Pressure Groups, and Movements:
2. Many families fled the country. Different political parties, pressure groups,
3. People lost their homes and livelihoods. and social movements share power through
4. Sri Lanka faced an economic crisis due to the elections and advocacy. Example: Coalition
prolonged conflict. governments and public movements like the
Right to Information (RTI) in India.
Q6. Differentiate between horizontal and vertical
power sharing in modern democracies. Q2. Explain one prudential and one moral reason
Answer: for power sharing with examples from India.
Answer:
Horizontal Power Vertical Power
Sharing Sharing • Prudential Reason: Power sharing reduces
conflict between social groups and brings
Power is shared among about better outcomes. Example: Reserved
Power is shared among
different organs of the constituencies for minorities in Indian
different levels of
government like the elections help maintain peace.
government like central,
legislature, executive, and Moral Reason: Power sharing reflects the
state, and local. •
judiciary.
spirit of democracy, where people have the
No checks and balances, right to participate in decisions. Example: The
Ensures a system of but each level has decentralization of power through Panchayati
checks and balances. distinct powers defined Raj in India.
by the constitution.
Promote deeper Q3. What were the main demands of Sri Lankan
Promotes the concept of Tamils, and how did they struggle for their rights?
democracy by including
democracy expansion. Answer:
all levels of governance.
Main Demands of Sri Lankan Tamils:

Long Answer Questions 1. Recognition of Tamil as an official language.

2. Regional autonomy for Tamil-majority areas.
Q1. What are the different forms of power sharing 3. Equal opportunities in education and
in modern democracies? Give an example for government jobs.
each. Struggle for Rights:
Answer:
Power sharing in democracies is done in various • They started peaceful political movements
ways: demanding these rights.
• By the 1980s, some Tamil groups demanded
an independent Tamil state (Tamil Eelam),
leading to a prolonged civil war.
34
Q4. What are the key elements of the Belgium Q.2. Why is it not easy to make changes to the
model of power sharing? power-sharing arrangement in India?
Answer:
The Belgium model was introduced after four 1. The Parliament cannot change the power-
constitutional amendments to prevent conflict sharing arrangement on its own.
between Dutch and French-speaking communities: 2. Any change must first be passed by both
Houses of Parliament with at least a two-third
1. Central Government: Equal representation majority.
for both Dutch and French-speaking 3. After that, it must be ratified by the
ministers. legislatures of at least half of the total States.
2. State Government: State governments
operate independently of the central Q.3. If the federal experiment has succeeded in
government. India, it is not merely because of clearly laid out
3. Brussels' Government: Brussels, the capital, constitutional provisions. Do you agree? Justify
has equal representation for both language your answer.
communities.
4. Community Government: A separate 1. Constitutional provisions play an important
community government is elected by each role in the success of Federalism in India, but
language group, managing cultural, they are not the only factor.
educational, and language-related issues. 2. The real success is due to the democratic
politics of the country.
Q5. How does power sharing among political 3. There is a respect for diversity and a shared
parties, pressure groups, and movements ensure desire for unity, which are key to the success
democracy? of federalism in India.
Answer:
Q.4. Distinguish between Coming Together
• Power sharing allows multiple political Federation and Holding Together Federation.
parties to participate in elections and
decision-making, ensuring power does not Coming Together Federations:
stay with one group.
• In a coalition government, multiple parties 1. Independent states come together to form a
work together to govern. bigger unit while maintaining their
• Pressure groups and movements, through sovereignty.
protests, rallies, and strikes, influence policies 2. They pool sovereignty to increase security
and advocate for the people's needs. and retain their identity.
• These methods ensure that democracy is 3. Constituent states usually have equal power
inclusive and responsive to the public's and are strong.
demands. 4. Examples: USA, Switzerland, Australia.

FEDERALISM Holding Together Federations:

Q.1. What is meant by the unitary system?
1. A large country decides to divide its power
1. Under the unitary system, there is either only between the central government and its
one level of government or the sub-units are constituent states.
subordinate to the central government. 2. The central government is often more
2. The central government has the authority to powerful than the states.
pass orders to the provincial or local 3. Examples: India, Spain, Belgium.
governments.
3. Countries that are generally small in size and Q.5. Explain the language policy of independent
less diverse tend to adopt a unitary system. India.

35
 1. The Constitution does not designate any one 1. In 1992, the Constitution was amended to
language as the national language. give more power to the third tier of
2. 22 official languages, including Hindi and government.
English, are recognized in the Constitution. 2. Regular elections to local bodies are now
3. Candidates appearing for Central Government mandatory.
positions can take examinations in any of 3. Seats are reserved for Scheduled Castes,
these languages. Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes,
4. Each state has its own official language as and women (one-third of all positions).
well. 4. A State Election Commission was created to
5. While Hindi is promoted, the Central conduct Panchayat and municipal elections.
Government cannot impose it on non-Hindi 5. State governments are required to share
speaking states. power and revenue with local government
bodies.
Q.6. What is the rationale for decentralization of
power? Why is decentralization necessary? This compilation covers key concepts of federalism
and decentralization in India and provides essential
1. India, being a vast country, cannot function insights into the structure and functioning of various
effectively through just two levels of government levels.
government.
2. States are internally diverse, necessitating GENDER RELIGION AND CASTES
another tier of government below the state
level. 1. "Gender division is not based on Biology but on
3. Decentralization allows for better handling social expectations and stereotypes." Support the
of local issues, as people at the local level statement.
have a better understanding of local problems.
4. It enables direct participation in decision- Or
making. Mention different aspects of life in which women
5. It helps build a habit of democratic are discriminated against or disadvantaged in
participation from the grassroots. India.

Q.7. How is the rural local government Answer:

constituted? How does it function?
• Gender division is mostly based on social
1. Panchayati Raj is the rural local government ideas, not on biology. Society expects women
system, with some variations across states. to take care of the house and children, while
2. Each village has a Gram Panchayat, men work outside as breadwinners.
consisting of elected members and a • Women often have fewer opportunities for
president, called Sarpanch. education. Even though girls do well in
3. The Gram Sabha includes all voters in the school, many leave their studies because
village and supervises the Gram Panchayat. families spend more on their sons' education.
4. Several Gram Panchayats are grouped • Women also work more than men, but much
together to form a Panchayat Samiti or of their work is unpaid and unrecognized.
Block. • Even though the law says men and women
5. All Panchayat Samitis in a district together should be paid equally, women often earn less
form the Zilla Parishad. than men, whether in factories, sports, or
films.
Q.8. What steps have been taken in India for • The number of girls born compared to boys is
decentralization? What are the provisions of the low. In some places, parents prefer sons and
Decentralization Amendment Act of 1992? may abort a girl child.
• Women face discrimination and violence even
at home.

36
 • When selecting candidates for elections,
parties consider the caste composition of
2. How are caste inequalities still continuing in voters to win support.
India? • Political parties often appeal to caste groups
for votes.
Answer: • Universal voting rights have encouraged caste
groups to demand a say in politics, which has
• Caste inequalities still exist in India today. brought more caste-based groups into
• Many people still marry within their own decision-making.
caste, and untouchability continues, even
though it is banned by the Constitution. 5. What were Gandhiji’s views regarding religion
• Castes that had better access to education in and politics? Explain.
the past continue to do well, while others lag
behind. Answer: Gandhiji used to say that religion can
• The upper castes are generally wealthier, never be separated from politics. What he meant
while Dalits and Adivasis are among the by religion was not any particular religion like
poorest in India. Hinduism or Islam but moral values that form the
• Although there are rich people in every caste, basis of all religions. He believed that politics
the lower castes have fewer rich people must be guided by ethics drawn from religions.
compared to the upper castes.

6. What are the consequences of the political

3. What factors have brought about a change in expression of gender division in free India?
the Indian caste system in modern times?
Answer:
Answer: The political expression of gender division has led to
The caste system has changed in modern India due to some positive changes for women in India, but
several reasons: challenges still remain.

• Economic development and urbanization have • India remains a male-dominated society, and
weakened traditional caste rules. women still lag behind men in many areas,
• More people are getting educated, and including education and jobs.
occupational mobility has increased. • Only 54% of women are literate, compared to
• Landlords no longer hold the same power in 76% of men.
villages, reducing the influence of caste. • Although laws like the Equal Wages Act
• The Indian Constitution has banned caste- mandate equal pay for equal work, women
based discrimination and created policies to often earn less than men in many fields such
undo the injustice caused by the caste system. as sports, cinema, and agriculture.
• In many parts of India, sons are preferred over
daughters, leading to a high rate of female
feticide.
4. Explain the various forms that caste can take in
politics. 7. How has caste been "politicized" in India? OR

Answer: How far is it correct to say that it is not politics

Caste plays a role in politics in many ways: that gets caste ridden but it is the caste that gets
politicised? Explain.
• Political parties try to include representatives
from different castes when forming Answer:
governments. Caste has become a part of Indian politics in several
ways:
37
 • Different caste groups try to grow by • How has the Indian Constitution ensured the
including neighboring castes and forming political participation of women?
coalitions with other castes.
• New political identities, such as "backward" Answer:
and "forward" castes, have emerged in Indian To enhance women’s political representation in India,
politics. the Constitution of India includes several
• Caste-based political groups help provisions:
disadvantaged communities demand their
share of power and resources. 1. Reservation of seats: The 73rd and 74th
• Movements and organizations often push for Constitutional Amendments (1992) mandate
an end to discrimination and seek more that at least one-third of the seats in local
dignity, access to land, and better government bodies (Panchayats and
opportunities for marginalized castes. Municipalities) must be reserved for women.
2. Women's leadership: These amendments
8. What is the impact of religion on politics? also ensure that at least one-third of the
positions of chairpersons in Panchayats and
(Alternate Question): Municipalities are reserved for women.
3. Inclusive democracy: The objective behind
• How does religion influence politics in a this provision is to empower women and
democracy like India? encourage them to actively participate in
political decision-making at the grassroots
Answer: level.
Religion plays a significant role in politics, especially
in a country like India, where people follow various These constitutional measures have given a platform
religions. The relationship between religion and to women to participate in governance and contribute
politics can have both positive and negative impacts: to social change.

1. Positive influence: Religion can inspire POLITICAL PARTIES

ethical governance, where politicians and
leaders focus on justice, compassion, and Question 1: What is a political party? Explain its
serving the public. It can also provide a sense main functions in a democratic system. OR
of unity among people of the same faith.
2. Negative influence: When religion is misused What do you understand by a political party?
in politics, it can lead to communalism—the Describe its key roles in a democratic government.
division of society based on religious identity.
Political leaders may use religious sentiments Answer:
to win votes, which can result in communal
violence, discrimination, and exclusion of A political party is an organized group of people who
minority religious groups. come together to contest elections and hold power in
the government. They share common beliefs and
In India, the Constitution promotes secularism, policies, which they promote to win public support.
meaning that the state treats all religions equally and
does not favor one over another. This ensures that The main functions of political parties are:
religion doesn’t create division or conflict in political
matters. 1. Contesting Elections: Political parties
nominate candidates to contest elections and
9. What are the constitutional provisions made for represent the party's agenda.
women’s political representation in India? 2. Forming and Running Governments:
Parties that win the majority in elections form
(Alternate Question): the government and implement policies.

38
 3. Making Policies: They propose and Discuss the different political party systems that
implement laws and policies that reflect the exist. Provide examples of countries following
party's ideology. each type of system.
4. Playing the Role of Opposition: Parties that
lose elections monitor and criticize the Answer:
policies of the ruling party to hold them
accountable. There are three main types of political party systems:
5. Shaping Public Opinion: Through debates,
media, and campaigns, parties influence 1. Single-Party System: In this system, only
public opinion on various issues. one political party is allowed to exist, and
6. Providing Access to Government other parties are banned. Example: China,
Machinery: Political parties act as a link where only the Communist Party is permitted
between the government and citizens. to govern.
2. Two-Party System: In this system, two major
parties dominate the political landscape, and
they alternate in power. Example: United
Question 2: Describe the need for political parties States, where the Democratic Party and the
in a democratic system. Republican Party dominate.
3. Multi-Party System: In this system, several
OR why are political parties necessary for the parties compete for power, and governments
functioning of a democracy? Provide reasons to are often formed through coalitions. Example:
support your answer. India were multiple national and regional
parties contest elections.
Answer:
Each system has its own advantages and challenges,
Political parties are essential for the functioning of a but multi-party systems are more representative of
democratic system for the following reasons: diverse opinions.

1. Representation of Interests: Political parties

represent different sections of society and
their interests. Question 4: What challenges do political parties
2. Facilitation of Government Formation: In face in modern democracies? Suggest ways to
democracies, parties contest elections to form reform political parties. OR
governments. Without parties, forming
governments would be chaotic. What are the major issues faced by political
3. Choice for Voters: Political parties provide parties in present-day democracies? Suggest some
voters with different choices during elections, reforms to address these issues.
each with their distinct policies and
ideologies. Answer:
4. Promotion of Political Participation: They
encourage political participation by providing Political parties face several challenges, such as:
platforms for people to express their views
and get involved in politics. 1. Lack of Internal Democracy: Party leaders
5. Link between People and Government: often make decisions without consulting party
Political parties act as a bridge between members, which limits the voices of ordinary
citizens and the government, making the members.
democratic system functional and 2. Dynastic Succession: In many parties,
accountable. leadership is passed down to family members,
reducing opportunities for others.
Question 3: Explain the different types of political 3. Money and Muscle Power: Winning
party systems. Give examples of countries that elections often requires a lot of money, which
follow each type. OR
39
 leads to corruption and the influence of 4. Example: Shiv Sena (Maharashtra), DMK
criminals in politics. (Tamil Nadu).
4. Lack of Meaningful Choice: Sometimes,
there is little ideological difference between
political parties, making it difficult for voters
to choose. Question 6: What role do political parties play in
strengthening democracy? Explain with examples.
Reforms include: OR

1. Ensuring internal elections within parties to How do political parties contribute to the
promote transparency. functioning and strengthening of democracy?
2. Implementing laws to curb the influence of Give examples to illustrate your answer.
money and muscle power.
3. Increasing public funding of political parties
to reduce dependence on wealthy donors.
4. Encouraging greater participation of women Answer:
and marginalized groups in party structures.
Political parties strengthen democracy in several
ways:

Question 5: Differentiate between national and 1. Providing Electoral Choices: Parties offer
regional political parties. Give examples of each. voters a choice between different policies and
OR leaders during elections.
2. Policy Formulation: Through their
How do national political parties differ from manifestos, parties present various approaches
regional political parties? Give examples to to governance, shaping public policy after
explain the distinction. elections.
3. Representation of Diverse Interests: Parties
Answer: represent various groups and communities,
ensuring that multiple voices are heard in the
National Political Parties: democratic process. For instance, BSP
represents Dalit interests, while DMK
1. These parties operate at a national level and champions the cause of Tamil pride.
have a presence in multiple states. 4. Holding the Government Accountable:
2. They contest elections in various parts of the Opposition parties play a crucial role in
country and often form the central criticizing and monitoring the actions of the
government. ruling party, ensuring accountability.
3. To be recognized as a national party, they 5. Political Education: Through their
must secure a minimum percentage of votes campaigns and debates, political parties
across multiple states. educate citizens about important political and
4. Example: Indian National Congress (INC), social issues, helping them make informed
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). decisions.

Regional Political Parties: By performing these functions, political parties

ensure that democracy remains vibrant and
1. These parties operate primarily in one or two responsive to people's needs.
states and represent regional interests.
2. They focus on issues specific to their region Find the Answer to below questions by reading
or state. answers of above questions.
3. Regional parties may form governments in
their states and sometimes join coalitions at Question 1: Imagine you are part of a newly
the national level. formed country and need to establish a political
40
system. Why would you choose to form political Answer:
parties? Discuss their importance in ensuring a
functioning democratic system. 1. Dignity of Individuals:
• Democracy protects the rights and freedoms
of individuals by providing everyone with a
voice in decision-making processes.
Question 2: In a country with no political parties,
how might the democratic process be affected? • Every individual’s opinion matter, and they
Evaluate the role political parties play in are allowed to express their views freely,
providing options for voters and maintaining the enhancing their self-respect and dignity.
government’s accountability. 2. Political Equality:
• Democracy ensures political equality by
granting every adult citizen the right to vote
Question 3: A country is transitioning from a one- (universal adult franchise), irrespective of
party system to a multi-party system. How will caste, religion, gender, or economic status.
this change affect governance and the people’s • Example: In India, both a wealthy
ability to participate in decision-making? Explain businessperson and a poor farmer have the
with examples. same voting power, ensuring that all citizens
are treated equally.
3. Respect for Fundamental Rights:
Question 4: Imagine you are a member of a
• Democracies protect fundamental rights,
political party facing challenges such as lack of
such as freedom of speech, right to education,
internal democracy and the influence of money
and right to equality, which enhance the
power. Propose reforms that could strengthen
dignity of individuals.
your party and improve its functioning in the
democratic process. • Example: Democratic laws in India ensure
that discrimination based on caste or gender is
illegal, promoting respect and equality.

Question 5: Suppose you are a voter in a federal

country. How would the presence of both national Question 2: Analyze the economic outcomes of
and regional political parties affect your choice democracy. How does democracy affect economic
during elections? Compare the roles of national growth, development, and the reduction of
and regional parties in addressing local and economic inequality?
national issues.
Answer:
1. Economic Growth and Development:
Question 6: A country’s democracy is under • In a democracy, economic policies are shaped
threat due to a lack of opposition and weak by consultation with different stakeholders,
political participation. In what ways can political leading to balanced growth.
parties help to strengthen democratic values and
• Governments in democratic countries strive
ensure representation of diverse interests? Use
for inclusive development that benefits all
examples to support your answer.
sections of society.
OUTCOMES OF DEMOCRACY 2. Reduction of Poverty and Inequality:
Question 1: How does democracy ensure the • Democracies work towards reducing poverty
dignity of individuals and equality among and economic inequality through welfare
citizens? Explain with suitable examples.
41
 programs like employment schemes, free • The process can sometimes be slow, as
education, and healthcare. reaching consensus requires time. Political
conflicts and disagreements among parties
• Example: In India, programs like may delay important decisions.
MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National
Rural Employment Guarantee Act) aim to • This is seen as a drawback when urgent
provide employment opportunities for the decisions are required.
poor.
3. Challenges of Economic Inequality:
Question 4: How does democracy lead to a more
• However, democracies often face challenges accountable and responsive government? Explain
in reducing economic inequality, as policies the mechanisms through which citizens hold their
may be influenced by political pressures or government accountable.
delayed decision-making.
Answer:
• Despite efforts, rich-poor gaps may persist
due to structural issues, but democratic 1. Regular Elections:
governments remain accountable to citizens to • One of the most important features of
address such issues. democracy is regular elections. In
democracies, governments must face
elections at regular intervals.
Question 3: Evaluate how democracy improves
the quality of decision-making compared to other • Citizens have the power to change the
forms of government. What are its strengths and government if they are unhappy with its
limitations? performance.

Answer: 2. Right to Information (RTI):

1. Quality Decision-Making: • RTI allows citizens to demand information

about the functioning of the government,
• In a democracy, decisions are made after promoting transparency.
consulting various stakeholders, ensuring a
wide range of perspectives are considered. • Citizens can ask questions about public
spending, policies, and government
• Deliberations in parliamentary debates and decisions, making the government
public consultations ensure that decisions are accountable.
well-thought-out.
3. Role of Media and Public Discussions:
2. Example of Democratic Decision-Making:
• Free media and public protests provide
• In India, major policies like education platforms for citizens to criticize and
reforms or health policies are discussed and question the government.
debated in parliament before
implementation, improving the quality of the • This ensures that the government is
decisions made. responsive to the needs and concerns of the
people.
3. Strengths:
4. Example:
• Democracies make informed decisions based
on people’s needs and expert opinions. • In India, large protests against certain
government policies (like the anti-corruption
• This ensures decisions are fair and inclusive, movement) have led to policy changes,
representing the interests of all sections of showcasing the responsiveness of a
society. democratic government.
4. Limitations:

42
Question 1: In what ways does democracy Question 3: How does democracy help with the
promote political equality? peaceful resolution of conflicts?
Answer: Answer:
1. Universal Adult Franchise: 1. Dialogue and Debate:
• Democracy ensures political equality by • Democracy provides a platform for dialogue,
providing every citizen with the right to vote. negotiation, and debate, allowing different
Each vote holds equal value, irrespective of groups to express their opinions and interests
the person's wealth, caste, or gender. peacefully.
2. Equal Political Opportunities: 2. Institutional Mechanisms:
• Democratic systems ensure that all citizens • Institutions like parliament, courts, and local
have equal opportunities to participate in the bodies play a crucial role in resolving
political process, from voting to contesting conflicts through discussion rather than
elections. violence.
3. Example: 3. Example:
• In India, women, lower castes, and other • In India, conflicting groups often settle
marginalized groups have equal voting rights disputes through parliamentary debates or
and can stand for elections, promoting court interventions, ensuring conflicts are
political equality. resolved in a peaceful and democratic manner.
----------------------------------------------------------------
Question 2: What are the limitations of democracy PREPARED BY
in delivering social justice?
MR. BIKRANT-PGT HISTORY
Answer:
PM SHRI KV DIPHU
1. Persistence of Social Inequalities:
THANK YOU
• Despite the ideals of equality and justice,
democracies often struggle to eliminate social
inequalities like caste, gender, and religion-
based discrimination.
2. Slow Process:
• The process of achieving social justice is
slow, as economic inequalities and social
hierarchies may continue to exist despite
democratic efforts.
3. Example:
• In India, even though untouchability is
legally abolished, caste-based
discrimination is still present in many parts
of the country, showing the limitations of
democracy in achieving complete social
justice.

43