Social Studies PYQs

The correct answer is '30'

Key Points

• Mandatory creche facilities:
• The government has mandated that organizations with more than 30 women employees must provide creche facilities.
• This law aims to support working mothers by ensuring that they have a safe place to leave their children during work hours.
• It is part of broader efforts to improve work-life balance and promote gender equality in the workplace.

Additional Information

• Purpose of the law:
• The law is designed to help women balance their professional and personal responsibilities more effectively.
• It encourages more women to join and remain in the workforce, contributing to economic growth.

The correct answer is – (i), (ii) and (iii)

Key Points

• Poverty and famines under British rule
• The early Congress highlighted that British economic policies resulted in chronic poverty and recurring famines in India.
• Reduction of land revenue and military expenditure
• The Congress demanded lower land revenue burden on peasants.
• It opposed excessive military spending that drained Indian resources.
• Increased spending on irrigation
• More public funds for irrigation projects were demanded to reduce agrarian distress and famine vulnerability.
• Entertainment tax
• This issue was not raised by the early Congress as part of its economic critique.

Additional Information

• Early economic nationalism
• The Congress leadership relied on economic critiques like the Drain of Wealth theory.
• Key contributors included Dadabhai Naoroji and R.C. Dutt.
• Nature of early Congress demands
• Focused on administrative and fiscal reforms rather than mass agitation.
• Reflected interests of the emerging Indian middle class.

The correct answer is: (a)-(ii), (b)-(iii), (c)-(iv), (d)-(i)'

Key Points

• Lithosphere:
• The lithosphere is the outermost layer of the Earth, made up of rocks and minerals. It includes the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle.
• It is significant for its role in plate tectonics, which causes earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountains.
• Hydrosphere:
• The hydrosphere encompasses all water bodies on Earth, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
• It plays a critical role in the water cycle, supporting life, and influencing climate and weather patterns.
• Atmosphere:
• The atmosphere is the thin layer of gases surrounding the Earth, primarily composed of nitrogen and oxygen.
• It is essential for life as it provides oxygen for respiration and protects the planet from harmful solar radiation.
• Biosphere:
• The biosphere includes all living organisms on Earth, from the deepest parts of the oceans to the highest mountains.
• It interacts with the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere to support life through biogeochemical cycles.

The correct answer is 'Only (a), (b) and (c)

Key Points

• Ashoka's Dhamma:
• Ashoka's dhamma was a set of moral and ethical guidelines rather than a religious doctrine.
• It emphasized ethical behavior, social harmony, and non-violence.
• It did not involve worship of a god, aligning with option (a).
• It did not involve performance of a sacrifice, aligning with option (b).
• The ideas of dhamma were inspired by the teachings of Buddha, aligning with option (c).

Additional Information

• Influence of Buddhism:
• Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism had a significant impact on his policies and governance.
• He promoted values such as compassion, tolerance, and respect for all living beings, which were central to Buddhism.
• Edicts of Ashoka:
• Ashoka's edicts, inscribed on pillars and rocks across his empire, were used to communicate his dhamma to his subjects.
• These edicts provide valuable insights into Ashoka's philosophy and administrative measures.
• Role of Dhamma Mahamatras:
• These officers were responsible for spreading the principles of dhamma and ensuring that people adhered to them.
• They played a crucial role in promoting social welfare and ethical conduct across the empire.

The correct answer is: 'A is true but B is false.'

Key Points

• During the First World War there was a huge demand for shoes for the armies.
• This statement is correct.
• The First World War (1914–1918) created significant demand for various wartime supplies, including shoes for soldiers, as they required durable footwear for long campaigns and harsh conditions.
• This led to an increased focus on leather production to meet the military's needs, particularly in colonial India, where the British sought local production to supplement their war efforts.

Incorrect Statements

• The poor people from ordinary castes saw this as an opportunity and were ready to supply shoes for the army.
• This statement is incorrect.
• The production of leather goods, including shoes, was traditionally undertaken by marginalized communities, particularly Dalits, who were historically associated with occupations considered "impure" under the caste system.
• Members of "ordinary castes" or higher castes typically did not engage in leatherwork due to the stigma associated with handling animal hides.
• Therefore, the increased demand for shoes during the war primarily benefited traditional leatherworking communities rather than ordinary castes.

Hence, Statement A is correct, and Statement B is incorrect.

Additional Information

• Leather Industry and Caste System in Colonial India:
• The leather industry was a significant aspect of India’s colonial economy, especially during wartime, as the British relied on local production for essential supplies.
• The caste system restricted social mobility, confining certain communities, particularly Dalits, to leatherworking, which was considered a "polluted" occupation.
• Despite economic opportunities, the stigma attached to leatherwork prevented broader participation from higher or "ordinary" castes.
• Impact of War on Indian Economy:
• The First World War boosted industries like textiles, leather, and metalwork in India, but it also placed immense strain on local resources due to British demands.
• This period highlighted the potential for industrial growth but also reinforced existing social hierarchies and inequalities.

The Mughal revenue system with its own schedule of revenue rates for individual crop was called 'Zabt'

Key Points

• Zabt:
• Zabt was a system used during the Mughal era for revenue collection.
• It involved a detailed schedule of revenue rates for individual crops, ensuring a systematic approach to taxation.
• This system was implemented primarily in the northern and central parts of the Mughal Empire.
• The revenue was generally collected in cash, which helped in maintaining a standardized economic system.

Additional Information

• Zat:
• The term 'Zat' refers to the rank or personal status of a Mughal officer or noble, not related to the revenue system.
• Iqta:
• 'Iqta' was a land grant system used primarily during the Delhi Sultanate, where land was assigned to officials in lieu of salary. It is not related to the Mughal revenue system.
• Jagir:
• 'Jagir' was a type of feudal land grant given to Mughal nobles and officers, which included the right to collect revenue from the land. However, it is different from the 'Zabt' system which was more systematic and standardized.

The rocks that were formed 300 million years after the earth was formed are: located in Western Australia.

Key Points

• Formation of Rocks:
• The rocks in question are ancient geological formations that date back to approximately 300 million years after the Earth was formed.
• These rocks provide critical insights into the early history of our planet and its geological processes.
• Location in Western Australia:
• Western Australia is home to some of the oldest rocks on Earth, including those that formed around 4.4 billion years ago.
• These ancient rocks are primarily found in the Jack Hills region of Western Australia.

The correct answer is (a) - (iii), (b) - (i), (c) - (iv), (d) - (ii)

Key Points

• Discrimination:
• Discrimination involves treating people unfairly based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, or sexual orientation.
• Example: Woman not allowed to be hired since she is starting a family (a) - (iii).
• Inequality:
• Inequality refers to the unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within a society.
• Example: Differential pay for the same work (b) - (i).
• Stereotype:
• Stereotyping involves oversimplified and fixed ideas about a group of people.
• Example: Girls are good at cooking (c) - (iv).
• Prejudice:
• Prejudice is a preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience.
• Example: Villagers are superstitious (d) - (ii).

Additional Information

• Understanding the Concepts:
• It is important to distinguish between these concepts to effectively address social issues.
• Recognizing these differences helps in creating targeted policies and interventions.

The correct answer is: Only (b)

Key Points

• Coffee:
• Coffee requires a warm and humid climate, not a cool and dry climate as mentioned in option (a).
• Optimal conditions for coffee growing include temperatures between 15°C to 24°C (59°F to 75°F) and high rainfall, typically around 1500-3000 mm annually.
• Cool and dry climates are unsuitable for coffee cultivation as they can hinder the growth and development of the coffee plants.
• Tea:
• Tea indeed requires a warm climate and high rainfall, as correctly stated in option (b).
• Ideal conditions for tea cultivation include temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) and annual rainfall between 2000-3000 mm.
• High humidity and well-drained soil are also crucial for the healthy growth of tea plants.

Additional Information

• Significance of Correct Climatic Conditions:
• Understanding the required climatic conditions for different crops is crucial for effective agricultural planning and ensuring high yield and quality.
• Incorrect climatic conditions can lead to poor crop growth, susceptibility to diseases, and reduced productivity.

The correct answer is 'between 1947-48 and 1956 when they were recognised as administrative units.'

Key Points

• Erstwhile Princely States:
• Princely states were semi-autonomous regions ruled by local monarchs under the suzerainty of the British Crown until India's independence in 1947.
• After independence, princely states were given the option to join either India or Pakistan.
• Most princely states acceded to India and were integrated into the Indian Union between 1947-48.
• From 1947-48 to 1956, these states were recognized as administrative units within India.
• The States Reorganisation Act of 1956 led to the reorganization of states on a linguistic basis, effectively dissolving the administrative recognition of princely states.

Additional Information

• Post-1956 Administrative Units:
• After the States Reorganisation Act, the erstwhile princely states were merged into newly formed states and ceased to exist as separate administrative entities.
• This reorganization aimed to create states based on linguistic and cultural similarities, promoting administrative efficiency and unity.

The correct answer is - (a)-(ii), (b)-(iv), (c)-(i), (d)-(iii).

Key Points

• Barygaza (a) - Bharuch (ii):
• Barygaza, also known as Bharuch, was an ancient port city in India renowned for its trade connections with various parts of the world.
• It served as a significant trade center, facilitating the exchange of goods between the Indian subcontinent and other regions.
• Shrenis (b) - Associations of crafts persons and merchants (iv):
• Shrenis were guilds or associations of crafts persons and merchants in ancient India.
• These guilds played a crucial role in regulating trade, ensuring quality control, and providing mutual support among their members.
• Arretine ware (c) - Stamped red-glazed pottery (i):
• Arretine ware refers to a type of fine, red-glazed pottery that originated in the ancient town of Arretium (modern-day Arezzo) in Italy.
• This pottery was known for its distinctive stamped decorations and was widely traded across the Roman Empire.
• Grihapatis (d) - Independent farmers (iii):
• Grihapatis were independent farmers or householders in ancient India.
• They were responsible for managing their agricultural lands and ensuring the sustenance of their families.

The correct answer is 'Examine the written records'

Key Points

• Role of Archaeologists:
• Archaeologists play a crucial role in understanding and interpreting past human activities and cultures.
• They primarily focus on physical remains such as artifacts, structures, and biological remains.
• Other Key Activities:
• Looking for bones of animals, birds, and fish helps in understanding the diet and environment of past societies.
• Studying the remains of buildings, paintings, and sculptures provides insights into the architectural and artistic practices of ancient cultures.
• Exploring and excavating tools, weapons, pots, and pans helps to understand the daily life, technology, and trade practices of ancient populations.

Additional Information

• Interdisciplinary Nature:
• While archaeologists primarily deal with physical remains, their work often intersects with other fields such as anthropology, geology, and history.
• This interdisciplinary approach helps in creating a comprehensive understanding of past human societies.
• Technological Tools:
• Modern archaeologists use advanced technologies like ground-penetrating radar, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), and 3D modeling to enhance their research.
• These tools aid in non-invasive exploration and detailed analysis of archaeological sites.

The correct answer is '08:50 a.m. and 09:41 a.m. respectively

Key Points

• Understanding Time Zones and Longitudes:
• India follows a single time zone, Indian Standard Time (IST), which is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+5:30).
• Local time varies with longitude, with every 15 degrees of longitude representing a 1-hour difference in time.
• Calculating Local Time:
• Chennai is located near 80º East Longitude and Itanagar near 92º45' East Longitude.
• IST is based on the 82.5º East Longitude (the standard meridian of India).
• For Chennai (80º East): The longitude difference from IST (82.5º) is -2.5º. Each degree accounts for 4 minutes, so the time difference is 2.5 * 4 = 10 minutes earlier than IST. Therefore, the local time is 08:50 a.m.
• For Itanagar (92º45' East): The longitude difference from IST (82.5º) is +10.25º. Each degree accounts for 4 minutes, so the time difference is 10.25 * 4 = 41 minutes later than IST. Therefore, the local time is 09:41 a.m.

Additional Information

• Standard Time Zones:
• Most countries use standard time zones based on their longitudinal position to maintain uniformity in timekeeping.
• India, despite its wide longitudinal extent, uses a single standard time zone to avoid confusion and maintain consistency across the country.

The correct answer is '(a) and (b)'

Key Points

• Women's education in nineteenth-century colonial India:
• During the nineteenth century, societal norms and cultural beliefs heavily influenced the education of women in colonial India.
• Women were primarily taught at home for a combination of reasons, including the ability to balance education with domestic duties and societal fears about women's exposure to public spaces.
• Balancing education and domestic duties:
• Many families believed that educating women at home allowed them to learn without neglecting their household responsibilities.
• This approach ensured that women could contribute to the family's domestic needs while still receiving an education.
• Fear of corruption from public spaces:
• There was a prevalent belief that women would be corrupted or morally compromised if they frequented public places like schools.
• This fear was rooted in the desire to protect women's modesty and maintain their traditional roles within the family structure.

Additional Information

• Hiding education from relatives and friends:
• While some families might have chosen to keep women's education private, this was not a widespread reason for home-based education.
• The primary focus was on balancing domestic duties and avoiding the perceived risks of public exposure.
• Educational reforms:
• Educational reforms later in the century began to challenge these norms, advocating for women's access to formal education in schools.
• These reforms were part of broader social changes aimed at improving women's status and opportunities in society.

The correct answer is 'He did not function as a Judge and policeman.'

Key Points

• Role of Grama-Bhojaka:
• The Grama-Bhojaka was an important village headman in ancient India, often acting as the intermediary between the village and the king.
• He was responsible for collecting taxes from the villagers on behalf of the king, ensuring that the revenue system functioned smoothly.
• Generational Position:
• Typically, the position of Grama-Bhojaka was hereditary, passed down through generations within the same family.
• This continuity helped maintain stability and local governance in the village.
• Land and Labor:
• The Grama-Bhojaka often owned significant tracts of land within the village.
• He utilized slaves and hired workers to cultivate his land, ensuring a steady production of crops.

Additional Information

• Judicial and Police Functions:
• Contrary to the incorrect statement, the Grama-Bhojaka did perform judicial and policing functions within the village.
• He acted as a judge in local disputes and also took on the role of a policeman, maintaining law and order in the village.
• Significance in Local Administration:
• The Grama-Bhojaka was a crucial figure in local administration, ensuring effective governance and communication between the village and higher authorities.
• His role was integral in implementing royal directives at the village level, contributing to the overall administrative efficiency of the kingdom.

The correct answer is (A) is true but (B) is false.

Key Points

• Shri Narayan Guru:
• Shri Narayan Guru was a social reformer and spiritual leader from Kerala, India.
• He played a key role in reforming the caste system and promoting social equality.
• He was a proponent of the idea that all people, regardless of caste, are equal.
• Statement (A) :
• Statement (A) is true. Shri Narayan Guru  advocated for equality within society, especially within the rigid caste system.
• He famously stated, "One Caste, One Religion, One God for All," which underscores his commitment to social equality.
• Statement (B) :
• Statement (B) is false. Shri Narayan Guru did not specifically inspire people to have faith in all gurus.
• His primary focus was on social reform and the eradication of caste distinctions rather than promoting faith in multiple spiritual leaders.

Additional Information

• Shri Narayan Guru's Teachings:
• He established temples open to all castes, promoting inclusivity and equality in religious practices.
• He emphasized the importance of education and self-improvement as means to achieve social equality.
• Impact on Society:
• His teachings and actions significantly contributed to the upliftment of marginalized communities in Kerala.
• He inspired subsequent social reform movements and leaders in India.

The correct answer is '(a) - (ii), (b) - (iii), (c) - (i)'

Key Points

• Igneous Rocks:
• Formed from the cooling and solidification of molten magma.
• Examples include granite and basalt.
• Sedimentary Rocks:
• Formed from the deposition and compaction of sediment, often by wind and water.
• Examples include limestone, sandstone, and shale.
• Metamorphic Rocks:
• Formed from existing rocks that are changed under great heat and pressure.
• Examples include marble (from limestone) and schist (from shale).

The correct answer is 'Exosphere'

Key Points

• Exosphere:
• The exosphere is the outermost layer of the Earth's atmosphere.
• This layer has very thin air, with particles so sparse that they can travel hundreds of kilometers without colliding with one another.
• It extends from the top of the thermosphere up to 10,000 km (6,200 miles) above the Earth's surface.
• The exosphere gradually fades into the vacuum of space.

Additional Information

• Stratosphere:
• The stratosphere is the second layer of the atmosphere, just above the troposphere and below the mesosphere.
• It extends from about 10 to 50 km (6 to 31 miles) above Earth's surface.
• The stratosphere contains the ozone layer, which absorbs and scatters ultraviolet solar radiation.
• The air in the stratosphere is more dense compared to the exosphere.
• Mesosphere:
• The mesosphere is the third layer of the atmosphere, located above the stratosphere and below the thermosphere.
• It extends from about 50 to 85 km (31 to 53 miles) above the Earth.
• Temperatures decrease with altitude in this layer, and it is where most meteorites burn up upon entering the Earth's atmosphere.
• The air is still relatively thin but denser than in the exosphere.
• Thermosphere:
• The thermosphere is the fourth layer of the atmosphere, above the mesosphere and below the exosphere.
• It extends from about 85 km (53 miles) to 600 km (373 miles) above the Earth.
• Temperatures increase significantly with altitude due to the absorption of high-energy ultraviolet and X-ray radiation from the sun.
• The air is thin, but denser compared to the exosphere.

The correct answer is:  Only (a), (b) and (c)

A population pyramid with big base and skinny top shows high birth rates, high death rates in higher age groups, and a relatively large number of young population.

Key Points

• High birth rates:
• The wide base of the population pyramid indicates a high number of births, suggesting high birth rates.
• High death rates in higher age groups:
• The skinny top of the pyramid signifies that fewer people survive to older ages, indicating higher death rates in higher age groups.
• Relatively large number of young population:
• The broad base also suggests a large proportion of the population is young, showing a demographic trend towards a younger population.

Additional Information

• Large number of deaths of infants:
• This option is incorrect as a wide base indicates high birth rates, not necessarily high infant mortality. While there may be some infant deaths, the primary indicator here is the high birth rate.

The correct answer is 'Only (A) is correct'

Key Points

• Rotation of the Earth:
• Rotation refers to the movement of the Earth on its axis. The Earth completes one full rotation approximately every 24 hours, resulting in day and night cycles.
• This rotational movement is crucial for the Earth's diurnal rhythm, which affects weather patterns, ocean currents, and biological cycles.
• Earth's Axis and Orbital Plane:
• The axis of the Earth is indeed an imaginary line that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole.
• However, the angle made by the Earth's axis with its orbital plane is approximately 23.5 degrees, not 33.5 degrees as stated in sentence (B).

Additional Information

• Importance of the Earth's Tilt:
• The 23.5-degree tilt of the Earth's axis is responsible for the changing seasons. As the Earth orbits the Sun, different parts of the Earth receive varying amounts of sunlight, leading to seasonal changes.