MAINS ANSWER WRITING TEST 1

Duration: 3 Hours Total Marks: 250 (10x10+15x10) Instructions 1) Kindly submit the answers in the PDF format on assignments@iqraias.com 2) There are 20 questions. All questions are compulsory. 3) The number of marks carried by a question/part is printed against it. 4) Answers to questions no. 1 to 10 should be in 150 words, whereas answers to questions

no. 11 to 20 should be in 250 words. 5) Answer the Question within word limit as marked against question. 6) Handwriting should be legible so the evaluator has ease to evaluate it.

Q.1) Town Planning is one of the unique features of Indus valley civilization? What lessons can be taken from it in today’s time for the conceptualization of Smart Cities and sustainable urbanization? (150 words) APPROACH: ✓ Brief introduction about town planning in Indus valley civilisation. ✓ Explain its relevance to modern world urbanization. ANSWER: Town Planning in Indus valley civilization : • Indus Valley Civilization or Harappan civilization was the first urbanisation took place in Indian History. • The unique features of town planning of Harappans were : • Harappans maintained the underground Drainage system. As, the drainage was connected to each and every house. • The houses were perfectly planed and constructed in grid pattern. • Most of the houses in Harappan civilization were two storeyed. • At the end of the city we found a citadel where people hide during wars. • Great Bath was one of the unique features in Harappan civilization. It was used as public bathroom. Here are some lessons that can be taken from it:

DOMESTIC ARCHITECTURE: Houses with proper ventilation, wells were unearthed. This type of planning can be adopted in domestic architecture of modern houses. COMMUNITY ARCHITECTURE: The great bath of Mohenjo-Daro unearthed, signifies the planned structure. The community architecture signifies citadel. DRAINAGE SYSTEM: Proper and efficient architecture in terms of drainage was observed. Each house was connected to a main drain leading to eminent drainage. PLANNING OF ROADS: The roads of this civilisation were made at 90 degrees. At the end of the roads, chambers were constructed, so that wind blows the garbage automatically and gets collected in it. All these marvellous attributes to the society has been given by the engineers of that era. They showed immense capabilities of engineering accuracy; the reflections of which we can see in present day urbanization. Q.2) Differentiate between mural and miniature paintings and their significance (150 words) APPROACH: ✓ Give a brief introduction. ✓ Body should contain the precise content as to how mural is different from miniature

paintings. ✓ Conclude with the significance. ANSWER: Paintings are one of the most delicate forms of art giving expression to human thoughts and feelings through the media of line and colour. Indian paintings are broadly classified into mural and miniature paintings.

MURALS MINIATURE PAINTINGS

✓ Mural paintings are large work on the walls of solid structures. For instance, Ajanta cave murals and Kailashnath temple in Ellora.

✓ History of Mural paintings starts in ancient times (from 2nd century BC).

✓ A technique called fresco which is executed on wet plaster.

✓ Colours were obtained from natural materials like terracotta chalk, red orchre and yellow ochre mixed with animal fat.

✓ Murals are painted on already dried surfaces.

✓ Themes : Buddhism, Jainism

✓ Miniature paintings, on the other hand, are executed on a very small scale and are generally done on perishable material such as cloth, paper, leaves, etc.

✓ Evolution of Miniature started in the medieval time. Palas (in 11th century AD) were the initiator of Miniature, but it reached its zenith during Mughals.

✓ After mixing colors in water with binding medium applied on drawing.

✓ Colors were handmade obtained from mineral, vegetables, precious stones etc.

✓ Themes : Panchatantra etc

SIGNIFICANCE: The miniature paintings showed the areas to which people belongs to their social and political systems and many other factors. These paintings are the classic example of detailing and technique with great detailing. Margin of error is almost absent here due to limitation to the size. Through their paintings, royal life of kings were depicted and striking landscapes in India were also shown These mural and miniature paintings gave us a priceless look of the diversity of our culture during different periods. Hence understanding of paintings helps researchers and archaeologist to understand the society, cultural beliefs, political environment that could have been there in earlier times and provides an opportunity to understand the current issues in a more efficient way. Q.3) Buddhism and Jainism converge and diverge on many aspects and beliefs. Comment (150 Words) APPROACH: ✓ Start the answer by briefly mentioning the origin of both religions. ✓ Discuss the similarities and differences between Buddhism and Jainism. ✓ Conclude Suitably. ANSWER: There is much that is common between Jainism and Buddhism. Not only were there marked similarities in the careers of the founders of these two schools of philosophy, both of them were contemporary and originated in and around North India. Both possess a common background of Aryan culture. Strangely enough, despite their strong regional orientation, both have accommodated many popular beliefs and superstitions.

Similarities Between Jainism and Buddhism

1. Both Believed in faith and Karma. 2. Both non-theistic religions 3. Both had common background of Aryan Culture 4. Both Founded by Kshatriyas of North India.

5. Both were against Vedas and Vedic culture as well as against Brahmanism and also

opposed animal sacrifice 6. Both preached Satya, Ahimsa, Brahmacharya and detachment from material comforts. 7. Both appealed to the socially down-trodden, the Vaishyas who were economically

powerful, but were not granted corresponding social status, and the Sudras who were obviously oppressed.

Differences between Jainism and Buddhism

Jainism Buddhism

Believed in soul. Did not believe in soul.

Prominence was give to lay followers.

Prominence was given to Sangha and monks

Emphasised on extreme Ahimsa

Liberal feelings and practical behaviours

Extreme methods of attaining salvation.

Middle path: moderate method of attaining salvation

Mainly confined to India Spread rapidly to foreign lands

More liberal towards women Not very liberal towards women

Buddhism and Jainism are sometimes referred to as children of a common parent and have a lot in common. However, W.W. Hunter writes "Jainism is as much independent from other sects, especially from Buddhism as can be expected, from any other sect. Q.4) Gupta period is noted for its achievements in arts, architecture, sciences, religion and philosophy, though status of women deteriorated and declined. Comment (150 words) APPROACH: ✓ Introduce with writing about the Gupta empire and its expanse. ✓ Discuss the achievements of the Gupta empire in the fields of art, architecture, sciences,

religion, and philosophy. ✓ Discuss social issues that emerged in this period. ✓ Conclude suitably. ANSWER:

The Gupta Empire stretched across northern, central and parts of southern India between 320 and 550 CE. The period is noted for its achievements in the arts, architecture, sciences, religion, and philosophy. ❖ Governance: They ruled over an extensive empire with their capital at Pataliputra and

maintained unity and integrity of india. o The Gupta age witnessed political unification of India after long period of more than

500 years after the decline of Mauryans. o The efficiency of their martial system was well known. The large kingdom was divided

into smaller pradesha (provinces). ❖ Economy: Gupta age was full of economic prosperity. According to Chinese traveller Fa-hien

Magadh, the power centre of Gupta empire was full of cities and its rich people. o In ancient India, the Guptas issued the largest number of gold coins which were called

‘dinaras’ in their inscriptions. o Gold and silver coins were issued in great numbers which is a general indicator of the

health of the economy. o Trade and commerce flourished both within the country and outside. Silk, cotton,

spices, medicine, priceless gemstones, pearl, precious metal and steel were exported by sea.

❖ Religion: They were devout Vaishnava themselves, yet that did not prevent them from being tolerant towards the believers of Buddhism and Jainism.

❖ Literature: Poet and playwright Kalidasa created such epics as Abhijnanasakuntalam, Malavikagnimitram, Raghuvansha and Kumarsambhaba. Harishena composed Allahabad Prasasti, Sudraka wrote Mricchakatika, Vishakhadatta created Mudrarakshasa and Vishnusharma penned Panchatantra.

❖ Science and Technology: Varahamihira wrote Brihatsamhita and also contributed to the fields of astronomy and astrology. Genius mathematician and astronomer Aryabhata wrote Surya Siddhanta which covered several aspects of geometry, trigonometry and cosmology. Shanku devoted himself to creating texts about Geography.

❖ Architecture: The Gupta age craftsmen distinguished themselves by their work in iron and bronze. For example, iron pillar found at Mehrauli in Delhi manufactured in the 4th century AD has not gathered any rust over the subsequent fifteen centuries which is a great tribute to the technological skill of the craftsmen. o The finest examples of painting, sculpture and architecture of the period can be found

in Ajanta, Ellora, Sarnath, Mathura, Anuradhapura and Sigiriya. Social degradation during the period However, it should be noted that the Gupta age did not witness progress in social development, for example the number of chandalas (untouchables) increased and their condition worsened

during the Gupta age. The first example of the sati occurred during the Gupta period in 510 AD etc. The Gupta age began a period of overall prosperity and growth that continued for the next two and half centuries which came to be known as a Golden Age in India's history. However, the golden character of Gupta age can be accepted only in degrees not in absolute terms. Q.6) Buddhism played an important role in spreading Indian culture across the globe in ancient times. Elaborate. (150 words) APPROACH: ✓ Brief introduction about how Buddhism originated in India. ✓ How Buddhism helped in spreading Indian culture? ✓ Conclude well. ANSWER: Buddhism originated in India. Though Buddhism disappeared from India, yet, it had exerted great influence on the culture of India across the globe. Buddhism established an intimate contact between India and foreign countries. Many travelers have helped spread Buddhism outside India. The Buddhist monks carried the gospel of the Buddha to the foreign countries and contributed largely to the spread of Indian culture. How Buddhism helped in spreading Indian culture? ❖ Spread of Hindu faith: The foreigners who came to India were influenced by the rich culture

of India. They gave up their names and creeds and adopted Hindu names and Hindu faith. Thus in a way, Buddhism helped in spreading Indian way of living.

❖ Learning from universities: The universities were the most important centres of cultural interaction. The scholars coming from abroad often visited the library of Nalanda University. Students and teachers from such universities carried Indian culture abroad along with its knowledge and religion. The Chinese pilgrim Huien-tsang has given ample information about the universities he visited in India.

❖ Spread of literature: The Buddhist monasteries were used for education purposes. In the Buddhist monasteries the beginnings of vernacular or Prakrit literature were made which later on developed into an extensive body of literature. Buddhism promoted Indian literature through these monasteries.

❖ Spread of philosophy: Many Chinese and Indian scholars travelled through these routes in search of wisdom and propagate the philosophy of Buddhism and Hinduism. Along the route there were resting places for Monks and Missionaries, for pilgrims and merchants. Later these became famous centres of Buddhist learning. The trade route transmitted religion and philosophy, ideas and beliefs, languages and literature, and art and culture.

❖ Spread of Indian art: King Ashoka made great efforts to propagate Buddhism outside India.

He sent his son Mahendra and daughter Sanghamitra to Sri Lanka to spread the message of the Buddha. With Buddhism, Indian Art forms also reached Sri Lanka, where the themes, styles and techniques of paintings, dance, folklores and art and architecture were taken from India. The most renowned paintings of Sri Lanka are found in the cave-shelter monasteries at Sigiriya. Figures painted in the cave are in the Amaravati style of India.

The transmission of Indian culture to distant parts of Central Asia, China, Japan, and especially Southeast Asia is certainly one of the greatest achievements of Indian history. One can find some magnificent temples like Pagan in Burma, Angkor in Cambodia, Borobudur in Java which are the evidence of influence of Buddhism. Q.7) Mention the salient features of the political structure of Vijayanagar Empire. Also evaluate the accounts of foreign travelers about the Vijayanagar Empire. (150 words) APPROACH: ✓ Give a brief introduction. ✓ Write about the political structure of Vijayanagar empire. ✓ Give foreign accounts and conclude well.

ANSWER:

Vijayanagar empire which lasted for more than two hundred years in the Deccan had a well-

organised administrative system.

The ruler was a benevolent despot. He was the head of the state and was regarded as the God’s

representative on earth. The king was the supreme authority in civil, military and judicial

matters. The king, however, was assisted and guided by a council of ministers. He was an

enlightened and benevolent ruler.

• The king enjoyed absolute authority in executive, judicial & legislative matters.

• The succession to the throne was hereditary.

• Administrative units divided as: Mandalams, Nadus, Sthalas and finally into Gramas.

• Mandaleshwar or Nayaka was the governor of Mandalam.

• He had considerable autonomy- had right to issue coins of small denominations & right to

impose new tax or remit old one.

• Sources of income: land revenue, tributes, and gifts from vassals and feudal chiefs, customs

at ports, & taxes on various professions.

• The army consisted of cavalry, infantry, artillery and elephants.

• Nayankar System – The top-grade officers of the army were known as Nayaks/Poligars.

• They were granted land in lieu of their services which were called Amaram.

• Manyams were tax free lands.

• A body of 12 functionaries known as Ayangars, conducted village affairs.

The accounts of foreign travellers:

Ibn Bututa (1333-1347 A.D.) — Moroccan traveller, who visited India during the reign of

Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq. And came to Vijayanagar during the reign of Harihar I.

Nicolo Conti (1420-1421 A.D.) — Venetian traveller, who gave a comprehensive account of the

Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagar.

Abdur Razzaq (1443-1444 A. D.) — Persian traveller, who stayed at the court of the Zamorin at

Calicut. He has given a vivid account of the Vijayanagar city, while describing the wealth and

luxurious life of the king and the nobles.

Duarte Barbosa (1500-1516 A.D.) — Portuguese traveller, who has given a valuable narrative

of the government and the people of the Vijayanagar empire.

Domingos Paes (1520-1522 A.D) — Portuguese traveller, who visited the court of Krishnadeva

Raya.

Fernao Nuniz (1534-1537 A.D) — Portuguese merchant, who wrote the history of the empire

from its earliest days to the closing years of Acchyutdeva Raya’s reign.

Q.8)The Bhoodan and Gramdan movements led by Vinoba Bhave attempted to bring about a “non-violent revolution” in India's land reforms program. Elucidate (150 words) ANSWER: The Bhoodan and Gramdan Movements Vinoba Bhave, a disciple of Mahatma Gandhi, noticed the problems faced by the landless harijans in Pochampalli, Telangana. He led the movements in an attempt to bring about a “non-

violent revolution” in India’s land reforms programme. The movements were about urging the landed classes to voluntarily surrender a part of their land to the landless giving it the name- Bhoodan Movement. It began in 1951. In response to the appeal by Vinoba Bhave, some land owning class agreed to voluntary donation of their some part of land. The Central and State governments had provided the necessary assistance to Vinoba Bhave. Later, the Bhoodan gave way to the Gramdan movement which began in 1952. The objective of the Gramdan movement was to persuade landowners and leaseholders in each village to renounce their land rights and all the lands would become the property of a village association for an egalitarian redistribution and joint cultivation. Under this movement, a village was declared as Gramdan when at least 75% of its residents with 51% of the land signified their approval in writing for Gramdan. The first village to come under Gramdan was Magroth, Haripur, Uttar Pradesh. Successes of the Movement:

• The movement was the first post independence movement that sought to bring social transformation through a movement and not through government legislation.

• It created a moral ambience that put pressure on the big landlords.

• It also stimulated the political activity among the peasants and landless, providing a fertile ground for political propaganda to organize peasants.

Drawbacks:

• The land donated was mostly those which were unfertile or under litigation as a result although large areas of land was collected but little was distributed among the landless.

• Gramdan movement was started in villages where class differentiation had not emerged, there was little difference in landholdings ownership, mainly in tribal areas.

• But it was not successful in areas where there was disparity in landholdings.

• Further, the movement failed to realize its revolutionary potential. Result:

• The movements received widespread political patronage.

• The movements reached their peak around 1969.

• Several state governments passed laws aimed at Gramdan and Bhoodan.

• But after 1969 Gramdan and Bhoodan lost its importance due to the shift from being a purely voluntary movement to a government supported programme.

• In 1967, after the withdrawal of Vinoba Bhave from the movement, it lost its mass base. Q.9) Krishnadeva Raya, the King of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar himself but was also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss. (150 words)

APPROACH: ✓ Brief introduction. ✓ Literary contributions of Krishnadeva Raya. ✓ Conclude well. ANSWER: Krishnadeva Raya is considered to be one of the greatest Indian kings and his rule is often regarded as golden period in history of South India. He was not only a great ruler but also had much to contribute to literature and culture. Literary contributions of Krishnadeva Raya:

• He wrote Amuktamalyadam, a literary work in Telugu language which is considered one of the Panchakavyas of Telugu literature. He was conferred with the title Andhrabhoja for this.

• He wrote other important or notable literature such asMadalasa Charitra, Ushaparinayam, Jambavatiparinayam, Sakalakathasaram in Telugu language.

• Patronization of poets and literary scholars

• He patronised AllasaniPeddana, who wrote Manucharitram in Telugu language which was in form of Prabandha. He was thus called as ‘father of Prabandha‘.

• He was responsible for developing and nurturing Carnatic musical tradition by providing shelter to musicians such as VyasaRaya, who was the propagator of Haridasa movement in Karnataka.

• He encouraged classical dance forms such like Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, which reached its height during the reign of Krishnadeva Raya.

Thus, Krishnadeva Raya’s rule can be considered as the watershed moment in South Indian literature history, which was able to emerge from the shadows of Sanskrit tradition and reach its current form.

Q.10) Battle of Normandy resulted in the Allied liberation of Western Europe from Nazi Germany’s control. Elucidate (150 words) ANSWER: The Battle of Normandy, codenamed Operation Overlord, lasted from June 1944 to August 1944 and began with what was known as D-Day. D-Day, also known as the Normandy landings, occurred on June 6, 1944, in World War II. The Allied forces of Great Britain, the United States, Canada, and France attacked Germany forces by invading Normandy in northern France. The Battle of Normandy would result in the Allied liberation of Western Europe from Nazi Germany’s control.

Before D-Day, the Allies mislead Germany about the intended invasion target by carrying out a large-scale deception campaign. General Dwight Eisenhower was appointed commander of Operation Overlord. In the time leading up the invasion, the Allies carried out their deception operation to make the Germans think that the main invasion would occur at Pas-de-Calais. The Allies used fraudulent radio transmissions, fake equipment, and a ghost army stationed in England across from Pas-de-Calais. By the end of August 1994, the Allied troops had worked their way to the Seine River and liberated France. Germany had been successfully removed from northwestern France, concluding the Battle of Normandy. The D-Day invasion was the largest seaborne invasion in history and was the turning point for the Allies again the Nazis. The invasion had no only a psychological blow to the Nazis but also prevented Germany from sending troops to build a front against the Soviets. The following spring, the Allies formally accepted the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany on May 8, 1945. Q.11) The ultimate aim of Asoka’s Dhamma was to create a harmonious atmosphere in the state, where all people irrespective of their religious and cultural diversities, lived in peace and harmony with each other. Comment (250 words) APPROACH: ✓ Introduction. ✓ Discuss in points, how the policy of Dhamma was meant to reduce various conflicts. ✓ Conclusion– mention that Ashoka’s Dhamma was an answer to the socio-political needs of

the contemporaneous situation. ANSWER: The Dhamma of Ashoka was the initial and the most primitive model of code of conduct enshrined in various rock edicts and pillars and posted among the common people across the ruling/influential territory of Mauryan period. Hardly these instruction were found engraved in any temple or caves, which shows that these were neutral , unbiased and can be preached and followed by everyone irrespective of cast and religion of the people. The language used to convey the principals of Dhamma was a suggestive one like what should be done by the people in particular and a society in general for maintaining peace and tranquillity in the state. Ashoka's Dhamma: 1. Ashoka embraced Buddhism and introduced Dhamma, a prakrit form of Sanskrit word Dharma, has no equivalent meaning in English language. It was neither a new religion and philosophy. It was a way of life and conduct which was derived from tenets of various Sanatana

creeds. 2. Ashoka, after Kalinga war, regarded himself as a father figure and promoted harmonious relationship between people and principle of ahimsa( non-violence) 3. His fourteen major rock edicts, pillar edicts and several minor rock edicts speak of his reign and philosophies. e.g. In the 1st Major Rock Edict, he prohibited animal sacrifices, 2nd Major Rock Edict covers medical and welfare services. 4. Dhamma helped Ashoka in maintaining unity in his empire. Ashoka, after his conversion to Buddhist creed, ruled a peaceful, prosperous, secular and powerful empire. His Dhamma played a pivotal role in unifying the empire without much military use, and provided it with a just administration. Q.12) Explain how the foundations of the modern world were laid by the American and French Revolutions (250 words) APPROACH: ✓ Give a brief introduction ✓ In the first part of the body elaborate on the influence of each of the events. ✓ In the second part mention the ideas that emerged from the French Revolution ✓ Conclude by stating how ideas established by these two events shaped the modern

democratic world. ANSWER: The American Revolution, conventionally dated 1776-1783, and the French Revolution that followed it beginning in 1789 has traditionally been regarded as the “founding” events of political modernity as they laid the principle of the Modern world. Impact of the American Revolution:

• It established that people are born with rights and that the government is empowered by the people. Its constitution is the first document that tells the government what it can’t do, not telling the people what they can do.

• The idea of republicanism was adopted once more and the ideas of the enlightenment were put into action.

• To fight for democracy has become the rallying cry of all the remaining colonies of the world. Newly independent countries have embraced the ideology of “no representation without taxation”, given by the American revolutionaries.

• Its success immediately inspired anti-monarchical, democratic, or independence movements not only in France, but also in the Netherlands, Belgium, Geneva, Ireland, and the French sugar island of Saint Domingue (modern Haiti)

• The British Empire had imposed various restrictions on the colonial economies including limiting trade, settlement, and manufacturing. The Revolution opened new markets and new trade relationships.

• Political and social life changed drastically after the revolution. Society became less

deferential and more egalitarian, less aristocratic and more meritocratic. • The Revolution’s most important long-term economic consequence was the end of

mercantilism. Impact of the French Revolution:

• Ideologies of liberty, equality, and fraternity are inspired by the French revolution, where all citizens promised individual freedoms, equality in status, and brotherhood.

• The French Revolution inspired movements against colonialism in colonies around the world, while movements for democracy and self-rule rose in the whole of Europe.

• The wars with France weakened the European colonial powers like Spain and Portugal and their colonies in South and Central America declared themselves as independent republics

• Ending the arbitrary royal rule, the revolution paved the way for rule by law under a constitutional order.

Thus, the many modern ideals which today’s democracies take for granted are laid down by the American and French revolutions. Indian constitution is too incorporated in the preamble, the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity. Q.13) “What began as a fight for religion ended as a war for Independence” Examine the statement in the light of Revolt of 1857. (250 words) ANSWER: What begins for a fight for religion in March 1857 very soon transformed into a war of independence because there was not the slightest doubt that rebels wanted to get rid of the alien government & restore the old order of which kind of Delhi the rightful representative. It was a mass revolt because at many places like the Awadh region, Jagdispur & parts of Central India, the mutiny of sappy followed by a popular uprising. It commented that what being as sappy mutiny ended up as a mass revolt. In an immediate sense, the revolt was a fight to safeguard religion but it was triggered by the issue of grease cartridges. The revolt failed in overthrowing British Rule. The rebels were suppressed by the British but at the same time, it must be emphasized that this revolt was not a complete failure. This revolt shocked the foundation of British Rule & forced the British government to imitate several changes in the politico-admin military, economic & cultural activities. Through the government India Act 1858, the rule of East India Company brought to an end & direct British Rule commenced in India. The Queen’s proclamation read by Governor-General Lord Canning at Allahabad at 1st November 1858 marked as a fundamental shift in the character of British Rule because it emphasized that no territorial expansion would be carried out in India, no discrimination was carried out in the appointment of state, and no interference would make in personal life people.

Battalion raised along caste & regional lines so that one could be used against others in an emergency. A very cautious & conservative approach adopted by the British in India in 1858 liberal & program references has abounded conservative elements like Radhakant Dev. The policy of direct plunder of Indian resources was dropped. Hereafter Indians exploited discretely by using the instrument of Euro financial capital & home charges. The outlook of the Native system was also changed because the native ruler played important role in the suppression of the revolt. The policy of subordination isolation got replaced by the policy of the subordinate union after 1858. British had realized that native rulers were not their enemies & their support would be crucial in the continuation of British Rule in India. Q.14) Discuss the objectives of Home rule Movement and its major contributions to the freedom struggle of India. Why did the movement fade out by 1919? Explain. (250 words) APPROACH: ✓ Give a brief introduction ✓ Write about the main objectives and contributions of the movement. ✓ Conclude well with how it faded away. ANSWER: Annie Besant and Bal gangadhar tilak has started home rule movement in April 1916 with the objective to have a home rule that is self government like the colonies of ,during the period of first world war. With world war,INC has decided to support British with expectation of more freedom after the war. In order make a clear opinion that self government if the expectation of Indians and to promote this among people as well as Britishers,home rule movement was started by besant and tilak separately,after their efforts to involve INC was failed initially.Gradually it has spread throughout India and many nationalists have joined. OBJECTIVES of home rule movement includes:

• to bring people together on common political opinion

• to persuade Britishers to bring in self government in India

• to educate people about the role of democracy,self government etc

• Through pamphlets,libraries,news papers,processions,public meetings etc the movement has made efforts in this direction.

CONTRIBUTIONS of home rule movement:

• It helped to bring in unity across all sections of society

• it helped in mass movement when Gandhi arrived

• It made Britishers to bring in laws related to Indian's participation in decision making

• It gradually brought together extremists and moderates through the lucknow session.

• It helped in new class of youth to the national struggle like Nehuru

• In all together home rule movement turned out to be a good incentive for leaders as well as people to initiate and participate in the movement.

But the movement has FADED OUT BY early 1918,due to:

• moderates have moved away from the movement with the announcement of Montague Chelmsford reforms

• with tilak moving abroad, and arrest of Annie Besant, movement has arrived a great downfall

• war time laws like defence of India rules were made stringent which even prevented people from attending to meetings, processions etc

• Though the movement has come to a halt, immediately it helped mass participation regardless of various diversities in the non cooperation movement.

Q.15) Destruction is necessary for Emergence. Examine the statement in the light of events from 18th century to Modern World. (250 words) ANSWER: Approach

o This is an analytical question in which keyword “Destruction” and “Emergence” in the first statement in following dimension and the example can be used in the last 18 century till present.

o Destruction of feudalism and emergence of middle class o Emergence of capitalism o Destruction of idea of ascribed status to achieved status o Emergence of socialism and welfarism o Constitutional democracy o Feminism and women empowerment

Explanation The Enlightenment – the great ‘Age of Reason’ – is defined as the period of rigorous scientific, political and philosophical discourse that characterised European society during the ‘long’ 18th century. This was a period of huge change in thought and reason, which was ‘decisive in the making of modernity’. Centuries of custom and tradition were brushed aside in favour of exploration, individualism, tolerance and scientific endeavour, which, in tandem with developments in industry and politics, witnessed the emergence of the ‘modern world’.

Public debates about what qualified as the best forms of government were heavily influenced by enlightened ideals, most notably thinkers’ notions of egalitarian freedom and the ‘social contract’.

By the end of the 18th century most European nations harboured movements calling for political reform, inspired by radical enlightened ideals which advocated clean breaks from tyranny, monarchy and absolutism.

Though grounded in a sense of outrage at social and economic injustice, the political revolutions of both America (1765 to 1783) and France (1789 to 1799) can thus be fairly judged to have been driven by enlightened political dogma, which criticised despotic monarchies as acutely incompatible with the ideals of democracy, equality under the rule of law and the rights to property ownership. These new movements for political reform argued in favour of protecting certain inalienable natural rights that some enlightened thinkers believed were innate in all men (though rarely in women as well): in the freedom of speech and protection from arbitrary arrest, for example, later enshrined in the American Constitution. Evidence of the Enlightenment thus remains with us today: in our notions of free speech, our secular yet religiously tolerant societies, in science, the arts and literature: all legacies of a profound movement for change that transformed the nature of society forever. Despite social, political, economic forms initiated centuries back, it was not uniformly achieved. Still the world is divided in developed west and under-developed and developing east. Women are still marginalized in developing countries like south Asia. But what we have achieved so far is still appreciative, but the battle need to be fought till what we desired to achieve. Q.16) Discuss the major limitations of the religious and social reform movements of modern India. (250 Words) ANSWER: The reform movements of the early 19th-century suffered from many weaknesses and limitations. • The reform movements could not give rise to a mass consciousness. The modern ideals

preached by the reformers could not percolate down to the masses. At the most, these movements were individual or organizational efforts and their impact remained restricted to educated elite only.

• The movements were basically urban phenomena - their base remained in the urban areas

and the activities of the reformers too were confined to it. The reformist spirit appealed only to a small elite group. They could produce little impact on the rural folk. o Socially, they were mostly Hindus, and though caste was not a major criterion for

membership, most of them belonged to the three higher castes, Brahman, Kayastha, and Baidya. The Brahmo movement was almost exclusively patronized by these three groups.

o The language of the reform, pioneered by Rammohun Roy, was highly Sanskritised which remained incomprehensible to the uneducated peasants and artisans.

o Similarly in western India, the members of the Prarthana Samaj were the English educated Chitpavan and Saraswat Brahmans, some Gujarati merchants and a few members of the Parsi community.

o In Madras Presidency, English education made much slower progress and caste domination of the Brahmans remained unshaken for quite a long time. Hence the reform ideas took longer to appear in this region.

o The general high caste character of the reform movements of the early nineteenth century explains to a large extent the relative silence on the caste question.

The reform movements in the latter half of the 19th century tried to overcome some of the above limitations but they too suffered from many weaknesses and negatives: • Some of the reform movements were associated with religious revivalism. This led to the

growth of orthodoxy and fundamentalism in religion. It had also strengthened the association of religion with politics which had many negative implications in the subsequent period. o Arya Samaj movement in North India, with its emphasis on the revival of Vedic Hindu

religion, started a reconversion drive known as the Shuddhi movement to convert those sections of lower castes who had taken up other religions such as Christianity, Islam etc., back to Hinduism. It also started a cow protection movement.

o The Aligarh Movement under the leadership of Sir Sayyed Ahmad Khan initially focussed upon the spread of English education among the Muslims. Later on, the movement began to preach loyalty among the Muslims towards the British Crown and refrained them from participating in the national movement along with the Indian National Congress.

o Many lower caste movements such as the Satya Shodhak Samaj under Jyotiba Phule, Aruvippuram temple entry movement, and SNDP movement under Sri Narayana Guru laid the foundations for backward class movement of pre and post-independence India. However, these movements had a negative fall out too. They ensured that caste remained an important aspect of the society as well as in the political discourse, preventing the dilution of caste ideology.

Q.17) Non – Cooperation and the Khilafat movement represented a new stage in the growth of the National Movement. Analyse (250 Words) ANSWER: Mahatma Gandhi promised to Indians that if Non-Corporation Movement was fully implemented throughout nation, then Swaraj would be ushered within an year. Unfortunately this dream could not materialize but NCM set new stage and prepared Indians for the future movements. NCM and Khilafat Agitation brought in the following elements which was never seen before in Independence struggle: • Ensured Hindu-Muslim unity: The people from all religions put forth united front. • Class movement to Mass movement: Mass movement which saw active participation from

peasants, mill workers etc. made this movement national in character opposed to previous elite movements.

• Struggle-Truce-Struggle (STS) policy of Gandhiji. • It asserted political leaders of full support from people of all sphere i.e. lawyers, students,

housewives etc. • Surrendering titles, resigning government posts, boycotting foreign goods were the

highlights. • Except for madras, all India gave full support and faith to the movement. It was no longer a

regional movement and highlighted single objective of Swaraj. • Boycott of foreign clothes, patronizing khaki and charkha gave Indians reason to be proud of

historical and cultural heritage. • Drastic decrease in imports and British govt. revenue exposed economic vulnerability of

British, which all national leaders exploited till India attained independence. • Congress emerged as a strong political party, from being just a pressure group. It was

perceived as the voice of Indians at large. • These mass movements shake the inherently condescending British Empire to treat Indians

on equal footing. Round table conferences were a result of that. • People started taking pride in their Indian Identity and promoted Swadeshi. Thus the movement acted as a litmus test to further movement and trailer for the movements that ensued the coming years. It might have been a failure but it taught great lessons for the future movements, gave an idea of the strength of the masses to Indian leadership and the British Government.

Q.18) Agri food systems need a transformative change for better production, nutrition, environment and life. Discuss (250 Words) ANSWER: There is an urgent need for reorientation of the long-term direction of agri-food systems to not only enhance farm incomes but also ensure better access to safe and nutritious foods. The Agri-food system: Significance and challenges it faces

• The agri-food systems are the most important part of the Indian economy. • India produces sufficient food, feed and fibre to sustain about 18% of the world’s

population (as of 2020). Agriculture contributes about 16.5% to India’s GDP and employs 42.3% of the workforce (2019-20).

• A sustainable agri-food system is one in which a variety of sufficient, nutritious and safe foods are made available at an affordable price to everyone, and nobody goes hungry or suffers from any form of malnutrition.

• However, the country’s agri-food systems are facing new and unprecedented challenges, especially related to economic and ecological sustainability, nutrition and the adoption of new agricultural technologies.

• The edifice of India’s biosecurity remains vulnerable to disasters and extreme events. Reorienting agri-food systems:

• There is an urgent need for reorientation of the long-term direction of agri-food systems to not only enhance farm incomes but also ensure better access to safe and nutritious foods.

• Additionally, the agri-food systems need to be reoriented to minimise cost on the environment and the climate.

• This need is recognised by the theme of World Food Day 2021: ‘Our actions are our future. Better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life’.

• FAO’s support for the transformation of agri-food systems is rooted in agro-ecology. • The more diverse an agricultural system, the greater its ability to adapt to shocks. • Different combinations of integrated crop-livestock-forestry-fishery systems can help

farmers produce a variety of products in the same area, at the same time or in rotation. Food systems can help combat environmental degradation or climate change. Sustainable agri-food systems can deliver food security and nutrition for all, without compromising the economic, social and environmental bases. Q.19) Critically examine the compulsions which prompted India to play a decisive role in the emergence of Bangladesh. (250 Words) ANSWER: The Bangladesh Liberation war ignited after the 1970 Pakistani election, in which the East Pakistani Awami League secured a simple majority in the lower house of the Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament of Pakistan). Leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, refused to

yield the premiership of Pakistan to Mujibur, President Yahya Khan called the military, dominated by West Pakistanis, to suppress dissent in East Pakistan. The contribution of Indian government and the citizens of India is a vital part of the history of the Independence war of Bangladesh. Without mentioning the contribution of India, the history of Bangladesh is incomplete. Various factors which prompted India to play a decisive role are given below:-

• The Pakistan army conducted a widespread genocide against the Bengali population of East Pakistan, aimed in particular at the minority Hindu population.

• West Pakistan had always given step brotherly treatment to East Bengal. It was always busy in suppressing the liberal elements in Bangladesh. The Indian government repeatedly appealed to the international community, but failing to elicit any response Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on 27 March 1971 expressed full support of her government for the independence struggle of the people of East Pakistan.

• Under Sheikh Mujib-ur-Rehman the muktivahini emerged to demand for the freedom of Bangladesh. It had popular support but Pakistan tried to suppress it violently and brutally. General Tikka Khan earned the nickname ‘Butcher of Bengal’ due to the widespread atrocities he committed.

• The suppression of minorities in East Bengal became extreme during 1971 leading to massive inflow of refugees into India. This complicated the situation immensely and necessitated India’s reaction.

• Some strategic compulsions also made it neccessary for India to involve in the war. Pakistan was a hostile state to India, it suited India’s strategic interests to split the country and secure an independent Bangladesh. Also this would weaken Pakistan gravely and benefit India.

• This was a cold war era. US supported Pakistan and made it difficult for India to intervene. So India signed a Treaty of Friendship with Soviet Union and went ahead. Soviet Union blocked the moves of US to intervene in the sub continent.

• India’s war in Bangladesh would have served little purpose without a conventional, disciplined military force to secure a decisive victory. India’s strategic involvement in this war helped India for long time.

Q.20) The women’s questions arose in modern India as a part of the 19th century social reform movement. What were the major issues and debates concerning women in that period? (250 Words) ANSWER: Women’s movement is an important variant of social movement in the sense that it aims to bring changes in the institutional arrangements, values, customs and beliefs in the society that have subjugated women over the years. By nineteenth century there were several evil social practices like Sati, child marriage, ban on widow remarriage, polygamy etc. which were a matter of debate.

During the British rule the spread of English education and Western liberal ideology among Indians and spread of Christianity and missionary activities, resulted in a number of movements for social change and religious reform in the nineteenth century. The initiatives came largely from male reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Ishwarchandra Vidyasagar. M.G.Ranade, R.G.BHandarkar etc. The new urban elite, drawn mostly from the upper castes, imbibed the enlightenment philosophy of individualism and humanism. They perceived barbaric traditional practices against women as a civilizational lapse and as recognizable social evils. The issues that were taken up by them were Sati, ill treatment of widows, ban on widow remarriage, polygyny, child marriage and denial of property rights to women and the need to educate women. A number of organizations notably the Brahmo Samaj, Arya Samaj, Theosophical Society, Prathana Samaj were set up. Women were in the forefront of all the main items on the agenda of the social reform movement. For reformers, women’s emancipation was a prerequisite to national regeneration and an index of national achievement in the connected discourse of civilization, progress, modernity, and nationalism. One strand in the movement concentrated on legislative remedy. A series of campaigns resulted in the abolition of sati in 1829 and the enabling of widow remarriage in 1856. Another strand was concerned with creating the female counterpart of the new male elite, “New Women”, who would share the sensibilities of the men in the family and be able to sustain their new class roles. The chief instrument was formal education but the issue became inextricably linked with the gender segregation and seclusion (purdah) practiced by the upper castes and classes and, by extension, with a reworking of public-private gender roles. The social reform movement saw the emergence of women’s organizations and institutions. However, the movement was led by men and originated in metropolitan cities. Despite being labelled as a middle class reform movements, these socio religious movements of the 19th century opened the doors for feminist movement in India.