SECTION – A
(Objective Type Questions)
1. Which of the following sums up the importance of home architecture within the framework of the Indus Valley Civilisation the best?
(a) The Lower Town at Rakhigari provides examples of residential buildings.
(b) Houses had courtyard at the back of houses.
(c) The rooms were the centre of activities such as cooking and weaving.
(d) There were no windows on the walls along the ground level
Ans. (d) There were no windows on the walls along the ground level
2. Which one of the following texts contains the teachings of Mahavira or Jaina Philosophy ?
(a) Mahavamsa
(b) Uttaradhyayana Sutta
(c) Dipavamsa
(d) Sutta Pitaka
Ans. (b) Uttaradhyayana Sutta
3. Two statements are given in the question below as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read the statements and choose the appropriate option.
Assertion (A): To ascertain whether there were social or economic divides among people, archaeologists employ certain techniques.
Reason (R): These includes studying burials, querns, pottery, needles, flesh-rubbers etc.
(a) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(b) Both (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
(c) (A) is correct, but (R) is not correct.
(d) (R) is correct, but (A) is not correct.
Ans. (b) Both (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
4. Consider the following statements regarding the enlightenment of Lord Buddha and choose the correct option.
(I) He was the son of a chief of the Sakya clan
(II) After attaining enlightenment, he came to be known as the Mahavira.
(III) The world is transient and constantly changing.
(a) Statement (I) only
(b) Statements (I) and (III) only
(c) Statements (II) and (III) only
(d) Statement (II) only
Ans. (b) Statements (I) and (III) only
5. Match the column (I) with column (II) regarding important terms during Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavira and choose the correct option
(a) (A)-(I), (B)-(II), (C)-(III), (D)-(IV)
(b) (A)-(I), (B)-(III), (C)-(IV), (D)-(I)
(c) (A)-(IV), (B)-(III), (C)-(II), (D)-(I)
(d) (A)-(II), (B)-(IV), (C)-(I), (D)-(III)
Ans. (c) (A)-(IV), (B)-(III), (C)-(II), (D)-(I)
6. ldentify the foreign travellers who visited India during medieval period with the help of following of information:
(I) He was a French doctor, political philosopher and historian
(II) He was closely associated with the Mughal Court.
(III) He travelled to several parts of India.
(a) Ibn Battuta
(b) Abdur Razzaq
(c) Al-Biruni
(d) Francois Bernier
Ans. (d) Francois Bernier
7. ldentify which of the following options refers to the material from which the tools of the Indus Valley Civilisation were made?
(a) Iron
(b) Copper
(c) Terracotta
(d) Steatite
Ans. (b) Copper
8. Which of the following descriptions of the Vijayanagara Empire is accurate?
(a) It was founded by three brothers.
(b) The rulers were called Rajas.
(c) Five dynasties ruled over Vijayanagara
(d) The most powerful ruler of Vijayanagara empire was Krishnadeva Raya.
Ans. (d) The most powerful ruler of Vijayanagara empire was Krishnadeva Raya.
9. Which of the following statements is incorrect about Ain-i-Akbari?
(a) It is a most important chronicle.
(b) It is authorised by Akbar’s court historian Abul Fazl
(c) The Ain is made up of four books (daftars).
(d) It contains a collection of Akbar’s ‘auspicious sayings’
Ans. (c) The Ain is made up of four books (daftars).
10. Imagine you are analysing a historical document from the Vijayanagar Empire.
Which of the following temples sculpted the scene from Ramayana on its inner walls?
(a) Hazara Rama temple
(b) Lotus Mahal
(c) Mahanavamidibba
(d) Virupaksha
Ans. (a) Hazara Rama temple
11. Match the column (I) with column (II) regarding the major teachers of the Chishti Silsila and choose the correct option:
Options
(a) (A)-(III), (B)-(I), (C)-(II), (D)-(IV)
(b) (A)-(II), (B)-(III), (C)-(IV), (D)-(I)
(c) (A)-(IV), (B)-(III), (C)-(II), (D)-(I)
(d) (A)-(II), (B)-(IV), (C)-(I), (D)-(III)
Ans. (a) (A)-(III), (B)-(I), (C)-(II), (D)-(IV)
12. Which of the following developments significantly represent the Mughal administrative system during the 16th-18th centuries?
(a) It had at its apex a military cum bureaucratic apparatus.
(b) It was responsible for looking after the criminal affairs of the state.
(c) All the officers were paid in cash.
(d) The officers were permanently settled at a single place.
Ans. (a) It had at its apex a military cum bureaucratic apparatus.
13. How did thej atiPanchayats held significant influence and authority within their respective communities? Choose the best suitable option from the following.
(a) By playing a crucial role in arbitrating civil disputes among individuals belonging to the different castes.
(b) By collecting taxes from the villagers on behalf of the central government.
(c) By organising large public gatherings for all castes, ensuring equality among them.
(d) By appointing government officials to oversee the economic activities of the village.
Ans. (a) By playing a crucial role in arbitrating civil disputes among individuals belonging to the different castes.
14. What was the insight of hunting expeditions in the Mughal political ideology during 16th – 17th centuries?
Choose the best suitable option from the following.
(a) External forces used to enter the forest in a number of ways.
(b) Elephants were required by the State for its army.
(c) Kings used to travel across the extensive territories of its empire.
(d) King was able to personally attend to the grievances of people of different regions.
Ans. (d) King was able to personally attend to the grievances of people of different regions.
15. Compare and contrast the impacts of the Ryotwari Settlement and Permanent Settlement. Choose the best suitable option from the following
(a) Both settlements did not involve middlemen.
(b) In permanent settlement, taluqdars were the owners of land whereas ryotwari settlement, the farmers were the owners of the land.
(c) The permanent settlement benefitted the rich zamindar while the ryotwari settlement increased the rights of the farmers.
(d) In both system, the government got tax from those who cultivated lands with their own hands.
Ans. (c) The permanent settlement benefitted the rich zamindar while the ryotwari settlement increased the rights of the farmers.
16. Why did the British annex Awadh in 1856? Choose the best suitable option from the following.
(a) Due to the area’s rich minerals and resources
(b) Because of the region’s bad administration and inadequate governance.
(c) Because of the false impression that Wajid Ali Shah was unpopular.
(d) Britishers wanted to sell the region of Awadh.
Ans. (b) Because of the region’s bad administration and inadequate governance.
17. Which of the following represents the correct chronological order of events related to Revolt of 1857 in India?
(I) British forces entered Lucknow residence.
(II) Rani Jhansi killed in battle.
(III) Mutiny started in Meerut.
(IV) Delhi garrisons revolt.
Options:
(a) (I), (IV), (III), (II)
(b) (II), (I), (IV), (III)
(c) (IV), (II), (III), (I)
(d) (III), (IV), (I), (II)
Ans. (d) (III), (IV), (I), (II)
18. Which one of the following was the Gandhi’s main reason to choose charkha as a symbol of nationalism?
(a) It represents a community of humans that would not glorify technology or machines.
(b) It leads to concentration of wealth in the hands of few.
(c) It is a machinery used for the service of the rich in their own cottages
(d) It would provide the poor with supplementary income to make them self-reliant.
Ans. (a) It represents a community of humans that would not glorify technology or machines.
19. Complete the following with the correct option regarding the leaders and their fight for independence of their countries.
Garibaldi:ltaly: George Washington:
(a) India
(b) America
(c) Vietnam
(d) South Africa
Ans. (b) America
20. ldentify the ruler of India in the 1850s from the given options using the provided information.
(I) He was the last Mughal ruler in lndia.
(II) He gave legitimacy to the rebels of 1857 against the British.
Options:
(a) Nana Sahib
(b) Kunwar Singh
(c) Bahadur Shah Zafar
(d) Shah Alam
Ans. (c) Bahadur Shah Zafar
21. Which incident transpired in 1946 after the Cabinet Mission negotiations failed?
(a) The Congress accepted the federal system proposed by the British.
(b) The League called for “Direct Action Day” leading to widespread riots.
(c) The British immediately announced the partition of India.
(d) Lord Mountbatten was appointed as the first Governor-General of Pakistan.
Ans. (b) The League called for “Direct Action Day” leading to widespread riots.
SECTION-B
(Short Answer Type Questions)
22. Examine the drainage system in the Harappan cities and how it influenced the urban planning of the Lower Town.
Ans. (1) One of the key features of Harappan cities was their advanced drainage system, which highlights the importance of sanitation and urban planning.
(2) Streets and roads were laid out in a grid pattern, intersecting at right angles, which helped in organizing the flow of domestic waste water into the street drains.
(3) The layout of streets with drains came first, and houses were then built along these streets, ensuring that each house had access to the drainage system for efficient waste management.
OR
Analyse differences between the evidences found in Harappan towns with the evidences of artisan production found in Early Historic cities.
Ans. (1) Crafts persons in Early Historic Cities were organised into guilds, unlike in Harappan cities.
(2) Guilds managed raw materials, production, and sales, whereas Harappans travelled for raw materials.
(3) Early Historic cities used iron tools, while Harappan cities used copper tools.
23. Explain with examples the main features of the Mauryan administration along with the principles of Ashoka’s ‘Dhamma’
Ans. Features of Mauryan Administration
(1) Major Political Centres: The Mauryan Empire was organised around five key political centers: Pataliputra, Taxila, Ujjayni, Tosali, and Suvarngiri.
(2) Administrative Control: The central administration was most robust in regions surrounding the capital and major provincial centres.
(3) Communication: Effective communication along both river and land routes was crucial for administration and control.
(4) Military Role: The army played a significant role in ensuring the safety of the empire’s territories and facilitating movement.
(5) Military Coordination: Megasthenes noted a committee with six subcommittees dedicated to coordinating military activities.
(6) Ashoka’s Reign: Emperor Ashoka aimed to consolidate his empire through the promotion of Dhamma. (Any three points)
Principles of Asoka’s Dhamma
(1) Simplicity and Universality: Asoka’s principles of Dhamma were straightforward and broadly applicable.
(2) Well-being Assurance: Asoka believed that following these principles would enhance the well-being of people in this life and the next.
(3) Inscription of Messages: Asoka’s messages were inscribed on stones and rocks for public dissemination.
(4) Respect and Generosity: The principles included respect for elders, generosity towards Brahmins and ascetics, and kindness towards slaves and servants.
(5) Religious Tolerance: Asoka advocated for respect towards religions and traditions other than one’s own.
(6) Dhamma Mahamatta: Dhamma Mahamatta, or special officers, were chosen to propagate the Dhamma’s teachings. (Any three points)
24, “When considered in the context of the policies pursued by the British from the late 1820s, the rumors in 1857 began to make sense.” Examine the statement.
Ans. (1) The unrest of 1857 was fuelled by reforms introduced during Lord William Bentinck’s Governor-General’s leadership in the late 1820s.
(2) His administration, aiming to reform Indian society, implemented western ideas such as the abolition of sati and the introduction of new social policies.
(3) The annexation of regions like Jhansi and Satara, along with the disregard for traditional adoption practices, exacerbated discontent.
(4) Social reforms like the Widow Remarriage Act and changes to landholding customs were viewed with suspicion, as they disrupted established norms.
(5) Rumours about these changes fuelled public apprehension and distrust towards the British, contributing to the Indian Rebellion of 1857. (Any three points)
OR
The conquest of Awadh led to the dissolution of the entire social hierarchy by uprooting not just the Nawab but also the local taluqdars. Examine the statement.
Ans. (1) The Nawab of Awadh, Wajid Ali Shah, remained loyal to the British East India Company, but Lord Dalhousie’s imperial ambitions led to Awadh’s annexation on February 13, 1856, under the pretext of maladministration.
(2) The Nawab was pensioned off, leaving many courtiers, officials, and taluqdars unemployed. Their jagirs were confiscated, and they faced immediate material losses.
(3) The British dismantled their power by disarming them, destroying their forts, and introducing the Summary Settlement, which reduced their revenue share by dealing directly with peasants.
This move aimed to increase revenue and reduce taluqdar oppression, causing a complete breakdown of Awadh’s social order.
25. Analyse the aspects that were made by the Portuguese traveller Barbosa on the Urban core of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Ans. The aspects that were made by the Portuguese traveller Barbosa on the urban core of the Vijayanagara Empire were:
(1) The 16th-century Portuguese traveller Barbosa provided personal observations on the urban core of the Vijayanagara Empire.
(2) He described the houses of ordinary people, though these structures have not survived.
(3) The houses of common people were thatched, well-built, and organised according to occupation, arranged in long streets with many open spaces.
(4) Field surveys revealed numerous shrines and small temples throughout the area, indicating a variety of cults supported by different communities.
(5) Wells, rainwater tanks, and temple tanks likely served as water sources for the common people in the town. (Any three points)
26. Describe why the battle between the hoe and plough was a long one in Santhal and Paharias of Raj Mahal Hills during 18th century.
Ans. The Paharia lifestyle was symbolised by the hoe, used for shifting cultivation, while the Santhal lifestyle was represented by the power of the plough. The conflict between the hoe and the plough was a prolonged struggle as:
(1) The Santhal arrived in Bengal around 1780.
(2) The Santhals were employed by the Zamindars to expand crops and recover land.
(3) The British invited Santhals to settle in the JangalMahal region after failing to subdue the Paharias.
(4) The Paharias continued to be unruly, opposed clearing forests, and refused to use a plough.
(5) In contrast, the Santhals were effective settlers, clearing forests and ploughing land with enthusiasm.
(6) As a result, Santhal settlements and cultivation expanded, pushing the Paharias further into the hills.
(7) The Paharias were forced into drier, more barren, and rocky areas, severely affecting their lives and impoverishing them over time. (Any three points)
27. Explain what are inscriptions, and what is their significance in historical records.
Ans. Inscriptions are writings engraved on hard surfaces such as stone, metal, or pottery. They are significant as they record the achievements, activities, or ideas of those who commissioned them, often including the exploits of kings or donations to religious institutions. Early inscriptions were typically written in Prakrit, a language used by ordinary people, while other languages like Pali, Tamil, and Sanskrit were also used in inscriptions and texts. These inscriptions serve as virtually permanent records of historical events.
SECTION –C
(Long Answer Type Questions)
28. How can we say that the Mahabharata is a good source to study the Kinfolk’s values of ancient time? Explain with examples.
Ans. The Mahabharata is a complex narrative that explores the evolution of human relationships, primarily through the conflict between two branches of the Kuru clan: the Kauravas and the Pandavas. The epic’s core story revolves around their struggle for power and territory, which ultimately leads to a devastating war. Here is a detailed breakdown of these themes:
Conflict between Kauravas and Pandavas:
(1) The Mahabharata centres on the rivalry between the Kauravas and the Pandavas, who are related as cousins within the Kuru clan. The dispute between them is deeply rooted in issues of inheritance, power, and familial pride.
(2) The Kauravas, led by Duryodhana, and the Pandavas, led by Yudhishthira, engage in a bitter struggle for control over the Kuru kingdom. This rivalry, fuelled by jealousy and ambition, eventually escalates into a full-scale war.
(3) The Mahabharata depicts the intricate dynamics of kinship, where the desire to preserve dharma (righteousness) and the quest of power cause familial ties to become strained.
Outcome of the War:
After a prolonged and destructive war, the Pandavas emerge victorious. The epic concludes with the establishment of Yudhishthira as the rightful king, symbolising the victory of dharma over adharma (unrighteousness).
Patrilineal Inheritance:
(1) The Mahabharata plays a crucial role in reinforcing the concept of patrilineal inheritance, where property and titles are passed down through the male line.
(2) Prior to the Mahabharata, there was no clear tradition of patrimony in ancient Indian society. But the epic affirms the idea that patrilineal inheritance is the proper way to pass down wealth, particularly when it comes to the king.
Inheritance Rights and the Throne:
(1) According to the patrilineal principle, after the death of a father, his sons have the right to claim their inheritance. This principle is evident in the Pandavas’ struggle to reclaim their rightful share of the kingdom after their father, Pandu, passes away.
(2) In the context of royalty, this claim to inheritance extends to the throne itself. The Pandavas’ fight for the throne is not just a personal vendetta but a broader assertion of their right to rule according to the laws of patrilineal succession.
Significance of Patrilineal Inheritance in the Epic:
(1) The Mahabharata’s emphasis on patrilineal inheritance underscores the importance of lineage and the continuation of the family name through male heirs. This concept becomes a central theme in the epic, influencing the actions and motivations of the characters.
(2) The enforcement of patrilineal inheritance through the narrative of the Mahabharata reflects broader societal values of the time, shaping the way inheritance and succession were viewed in ancient India.
OR
How was the Mahabharata compiled in the 20th century? Explain with examples.
Ans. In 1919, a significant scholarly project to compile a critical edition of the Mahabharata was initiated under the leadership of V.S. Sukthankar, a renowned scholar. The project aimed to create a definitive version of the ancient text by examining and compiling various existing manuscripts.
(1) To take on this enormous endeavor, a group of several dozen scholars was brought together.
(2) The scholars brought diverse expertise in Sanskrit and ancient Indian texts to the project, allowing for a comprehensive approach to the compilation.
(3) The group gathered a large number of Sanskrit Mahabharata manuscripts from various parts of India.
(4) These manuscripts were written in a variety of scripts, reflecting the diverse linguistic and cultural traditions in which the Mahabharata had been preserved.
(5) The scholars meticulously compared the verses from each manuscript, analysing similarities and differences. The verses that appeared common across the majority of the versions were selected for inclusion in the critical edition.
(6) The selected common verses were compiled into a critical edition, which was published in multiple volumes. The final compilation spanned over 13,000 pages, making it one of the most extensive scholarly works on the Mahabharata.
(7) The project, though originally planned to be shorter, took a total of 47 years to complete due to its complexity and the scale of the work involved. The critical edition became a monumental academic achievement, providing a more standardised and reliable version of the Mahabharata.
(8) The project revealed that there were several common elements in the Sanskrit versions of the Mahabharata, which were found consistently across different regions of the Indian subcontinent. This indicated a shared cultural and textual heritage.
29. Francois Bernier’s observations of Mughal India reflect a comparative analysis with contemporary Europe’. Justify the statement.
Ans. (1) François Bernier, a French physician and traveler, provided a detailed account of Mughal India in his work Travels in the Mughal Empire.
(2) Unlike his predecessor Ibn Battuta, who marveled at the novelty of different cultures, Bernier engaged in a critical comparative analysis between India and Europe, particularly France.
(3) His observations were marked by a consistent theme of juxtaposition, where he portrayed India as a “degenerate” counterpart to a more advanced and superior Europe.
(4) Bernier’s approach to his travels was influenced by the intellectual currents of his time, which often prioritised European civilisation as the benchmark for progress and enlightenment.
(5) He meticulously compared the Mughal administration, social practices, and economic conditions to those of contemporary Europe, emphasizing what he perceived as shortcomings in Indian society.
(6) For instance, Bernier critiqued the political instability and corruption within the Mughal Empire and viewed these aspects as reflective of a broader cultural decline.
(7) His binary framework categorised India as the antithesis of Europe, where the former was viewed as lacking in rational governance and social cohesion.
(8) This representation of India was not merely an academic exercise; it had significant implications for how policymakers and the European intelligentsia perceived the subcontinent.
OR
‘Bernier expressed critical views on the land ownership system of the Mughals. Justify the statement.
Ans. Bernier stated that there was no private property during Mughal India.
(1) He believed in the virtues of private property. He viewed crown ownership of land as harmful to both the state and the people. According to him, the Mughal emperors owned all the land.
(2) This had disastrous consequences for the state and society. Due to crown ownership, landholders could not pass their property to their children. This discouraged longterm investment in the maintenance and expansion of agricultural production. The result was the uniform decline of agriculture.
(3) The French philosopher Montesquieu used Bernier’s account to develop the idea of oriental despotism, suggesting that rulers in Asia had absolute authority over their subjects, who were kept in subjugation and poverty because the land was believed to belong to the king.
(4) According to this view, only the emperor and his nobles lived comfortably, while everyone else barely survived.
(5) Karl Marx later developed this concept into the Asiatic mode of production.
(6) Marx argued that, in India and other Asian countries before colonialism, the state appropriated the surplus.
(7) This led to the formation of numerous autonomous and internally egalitarian village communities.
(8) The imperial court oversaw these communities, respecting their autonomy as long as the flow of surplus remained uninterrupted, resulting in a stagnant system
30. How did the arrival of Mahatma Gandhi expand the Indian National Movement’s base? Explain.
Ans. The coming of Mahatma Gandhi broadened the base of the national movement of India in the following ways:
(1) Attract common men: Under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, the national movement evolved beyond a platform for intellectuals and professionals, attracting participation from thousands of farmers, labourers, and artisans.
(2) Simple life style: Gandhi’s approach to leadership made him relatable to the masses, especially with his adoption of a simple lifestyle. He dressed like a poor farmer or worker, which resonated with the common people, reflecting his commitment to living like an ordinary man.
(3) Use of spinning wheel: One of the most symbolic actions of Gandhiji was his dedication to the spinning wheel. He actively spun cotton himself and encouraged others to do the same. This act was not just symbolic of self-reliance but also aimed to bridge the divide between mental and physical labour, which had long been separated by the traditional caste system. By advocating for spinning, Gandhi sought to elevate manual labour and create a sense of equality among people
(4) Concern towards farmers: Gandhi’s compassion for the plight of farmers and the poor was evident in his efforts to alleviate their suffering. His commitment to improving their condition helped him gain widespread popularity. In many parts of India, rumours of Gandhi’s miraculous abilities further boosted his reputation, making him a household name. This widespread admiration motivated many people to join the struggle for freedom wholeheartedly.
(5) Many branches of Congress: Under his leadership, branches of the Indian National Congress were established across various cities. Gandhiji also founded panchayats and Praja Mandals to instil nationalist sentiments among local rulers, encouraging them to embrace the freedom struggle.
(6) Use of mother tongue: He believed that the message of nationalism should be spread in the people’s mother tongue, rather than in English, making it more accessible to the masses.
(7) Hindu-Muslim unity: Gandhi also emphasised the importance of Hindu Muslim unity as a fundamental pillar for the national movement. His efforts to promote unity across communities helped to create a broad base of support for India’s fight for independence.
(8) Gandhi Personality: Ultimately, Gandhiji’s magnetic personality drew leaders from different regions and sections of society into the freedom movement. He stressed that the nation’s societal ills needed to be addressed in order to achieve true freedom, underscoring the interconnectedness of social reform and the independence movement.
OR
Explain the significance of Mahatma Gandhi’s statement during the Dandi March in 1930, particularly focusing on the themes of non-violence, civil disobedience, and the role of leadership in a mass movement.
Ans. Mahatma Gandhi’s statement during the Dandi March on April 5, 1930, encapsulated the fundamental principles of non-violence, civil disobedience, and the role of leadership in mass movements. The Dandi March was a pivotal moment in the Indian independence struggle, where Gandhi and his followers set out to defy the oppressive British salt tax by producing salt from seawater. In his speech, Gandhi emphasised the power of non-violence, asserting that their peaceful approach could compel the British government to reconsider its oppressive policies. He noted that the government refrained from arresting them not out of goodwill but perhaps out of fear of the moral implications of suppressing a non-violent movement. By highlighting the power of peace and the shame associated with violent repression, Gandhi reinforced the belief that non-violence is a potent weapon against injustice.
Gandhi’s declaration to break the salt tax law symbolised civil disobedience, a central tenet of his philosophy. This act was not merely about salt but was a powerful statement against British rule, igniting a sense of collective consciousness among Indians. He believed that when an entire nation rises in protest, the absence of leaders does not diminish the movement; rather, it amplifies the collective spirit of resistance. His assertion that the movement could persist without him or other leaders reflects a revolutionary shift in the nature of leadership, emphasizing collective action over individual heroism.
Ultimately, Gandhi’s message during the Dandi March highlighted the transformative potential of non-violent resistance and collective action in the fight for justice. This moment not only galvanized the Indian population against colonial rule but also set a precedent for future civil rights movements around the world, showcasing the enduring power of peaceful protest in the quest for social change.
SECTION –D
(Source Based Questions)
31, Read the following source and answer the questions that follow:
Cash or Kind?
Let him (the amil-guzar) not make it a practice of taking only in cash but also in kind. The latter is effected in several ways. First, kankut: in the Hindi language kan signifies grain, and kut, estimates if any doubts arise, the crops should be cut and estimated in three lots, the good., the middling. and the inferior, and the hesitation removed. Often, too, the land taken by appraisement, gives a sufficiently accurate return. Secondly. batai, also called bhaoli, the crops are reaped and stacked and divided by agreement in the presence of the parties. But in this case several intelligent inspectors are required: otherwise, the evil minded and false are given to deception. Thirdly, khet-batai, when they divide the fields after they are sown. Fourthly. Long batai, after cutting the grain, they form it in heaps and divide it among themselves, and each takes his share home and turns it to profit.
(A) How the meaning of cash can be explained in land revenue system according to the source?
Ans. In the context of the land revenue system cash refers to the monetary payment collected from landowners or farmers for the revenue owed to the state.
(B) What role does Amil-Guzar play in land revenue collection as mentioned in passage?
Ans. The role of Amil Guzar was to assess the land revenue and then to collect revenue from the peasants in cash or kind.
(C) What insights can be gained from the mentioned system of lang batai?
Ans. (1) The procedure known as lang batai was used to create grain heaps following cutting.
(2) They split these heaps among themselves, and each person took his or her share home and made a profit.
32. Read the source given below and answer the questions that follow:
Capturing elephants for the army
The Arthashastra lays down minute details of administrative and military organisation. This is what it says about how to capture elephants:
Guards of elephant forests, assisted by those who rear elephants, those who enchain the legs of elephants, those who guard the boundaries, those who live in forests, as well as by those who nurse elephants, shall, with the help of five or seven female elephants to help in tethering wild ones, trace the whereabouts of herds of elephants by following the course of urine and dung left by elephants.
According to Greek sources, the Mauryan ruler had a standing army of 600,000 foot soldiers, 30,000 cavalry and 9,000 elephants. Some historians consider these accounts to be exaggerated.
(A) Who is the author of Arthashastra?
Ans. Kautilya or Chanakya is the author of Arthashastra
(B) How were the elephants traced in the forests as per the source?
Ans. (1) Elephants are traced in the forests by following the course of urine and dung scattered in the forests.
(2) This can be traced with the help of 5 or 7 female elephants
(C) Why did the Mauryan emperors capture the elephants?
Ans. Elephants were captured to raise the military strength of elephant by the Maurya rulers.
33. Read the following source and answer the questions that follow:
The British element is gone, but they have left the mischief behind
Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel said: It is no use saying that we ask for separate electorates, because it is good for us. We have heard it long enough. We have heard it for years, and as me one free country where there are separate electorates? If so, I shall be prepared to accept it. But in this unfortunate country if this separate electorate is going to be persisted in, even after the division of the country. woe betide the country: it is not worth living in. Therefore, I say.it is not for my good alone, it is for your own good that l says it, forget the past One day. we may be united The British element is gone but they have left the mischief behind. We do not want to perpetuate that mischief. (Hear, hear). When the British introduced this element they had not expected that they will have to go so soon. They wanted it for their easy administration. That is all right. But they have left the legacy behind. Are we to get out of it or not?
(A) What does Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel mean by separate electorates according to the passage?
Ans. It was a part of political framework in which minorities could be elected and have meaningful voice in the administration.
(B) What was Sardar Patel intentions when he insist on unity of the country?
Ans. Patel was against separate electorate because he felt that in this way minorities will always remain minority.
(C) How does separate electorate considered a mischief by the British by freedom fighters?
Ans. (1) The British saw separate electorates as a bad idea since they created the basis for dividing the various populations.
(2) It endangered the unity of the nation.
SECTION –E
(Map Based Questions)
34. (A). On the given political map of India, locate and label the following with appropriate symbols:
(i) Lothal, a mature Harappan site
(II) Vajji, a mahajanpada
(III) Goa, a territory under Akbar
OR
Vaishali, an important kingdom and town.
(B) On the given map, two places have been marked as (I) and (II) which ore the centres of Revolt of 1857. Identify them and write their names.
Ans.
(B) (I) Kanpur
(II) Calcutta
