Social Studies PYQs

The correct answer is St. Petersburg and Vladivostok.

Key Points

• Trans-Siberian Railway connects St Petersburg to Vladivostok.

• The trans-Siberian railway runs on a railway line spanning a length of 11,263 km in Russia.

• It connects St Petersburg located in western Russia with Vladivostok a city in the far East of Russia.

• It crosses eight time zones and the diverse topography of Russia.

• The Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest railway in the world.

• It was built between 1891 and 1916 to connect Moscow with the Far-East city of Vladivostok.

• The Trans-Siberian Railway system is one of the longest railway lines in the world.

• It connects Moscow in the west to Vladivostok in the east.

• The railway line is over 9,000 km long and passes through several cities and towns in Russia.

• The journey from Moscow to Vladivostok takes around 7 days.

Additional Information

• St. Petersburg is connected to Moscow by a different railway line called Moscow–Saint Petersburg Railway.
• Sovetskaya is a common name for several places in Russia, but none of them are connected by the Trans-Siberian Railway system.

The correct answer is Only (C).

Key Points

• The correct answer is option 2, and the following are the key points to support it:
• Out of this 2.7%, a significant portion is not easily accessible as it is stored in glaciers, ice caps, and underground aquifers.
• The remaining freshwater is distributed unevenly across the globe, making it scarce in many regions.
• The increasing global population and climate change are putting additional pressure on the already limited freshwater resources.

The correct answer is Only (A) and (B).

Key Points

• The correct answer is option 2, which means the stratosphere is free from clouds and weather phenomena.
• Reasons why the stratosphere is ideal for flying airplanes:
• 1. The stratosphere is free from clouds, which means there is less turbulence and better visibility for pilots.
• 2. The stratosphere is free from weather phenomena, such as thunderstorms and hurricanes, which can be dangerous for airplanes.
• 3. The stratosphere has stable atmospheric conditions, which means airplanes can fly more efficiently and use less fuel.
• 4. The stratosphere has a higher altitude than the troposphere, which means airplanes can fly faster and cover more distances.

Additional Information

• The stratosphere is not free from various types of gases.
• In fact, it contains a layer of ozone gas that protects the Earth from harmful UV radiation.
• The stratosphere is not completely free from all types of weather phenomena.
• It can still experience high winds and temperature changes.

The correct answer is Only (A) and (B).

Key PointsThe question is asking about the characteristics of tropical evergreen forests.

• Option 1 states that these forests occur in regions near the equator and close to the tropics.
• This is true because tropical evergreen forests are found in areas with high temperatures and high humidity, which are typically located near the equator.
• Option 2 states that these regions are hot and receive heavy rainfall throughout the year.
• This is also true because tropical evergreen forests have a very humid climate and receive high amounts of rainfall, often over 100 inches per year.
• Option 3 states that there is a short dry season.
• This statement is not true. Tropical evergreen forests generally do not have a distinct dry season. They experience high rainfall throughout the year, leading to consistent humidity and moisture levels.
• Option 4 states that they shed their leaves for a small period of time.
• This is not true because tropical evergreen forests are characterized by their dense canopy of evergreen trees, which do not shed their leaves seasonally.
• Therefore, the correct answer is option 3, only (A) and (B) are true about tropical evergreen forests.

Additional Information

• Tropical evergreen forests are also known as rainforests.
• These forests are home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, many of which are not found anywhere else in the world.
• Deforestation and habitat destruction are major threats to tropical evergreen forests and their ecosystems.
• These forests play a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate and carbon cycle.

The correct answer is (A), (B), and (C) are correct.

Key Points

• The correct answer is option 4, i.e., (A), (B), and (C) are correct.
• Explanation:
• People move from rural to urban areas primarily for better employment opportunities, better education facilities, and better health facilities.
• -Rural areas often lack sufficient job opportunities and educational facilities, which leads people to migrate to urban areas.
• Urban areas have better healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, and specialized doctors, which attract people seeking medical treatment.
• Although better accommodation may also be a factor in people's decision to move to urban areas, it is not as significant as the other three factors mentioned above.

Additional Information

• While education and employment are the primary reasons for migration to urban areas, people may also move for other reasons such as better lifestyle, social opportunities, and access to basic amenities.
• Rural areas may also have their own unique advantages, such as lower cost of living, a closer-knit community, and a simpler lifestyle.

The correct answer is Both the statements (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).

Key Points

• The correct answer is option 2. Both statements (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
• Explanation:
• Industrialization often leads to the development and growth of towns and cities as industries provide employment opportunities, better infrastructure, and increased economic activities.
• Industries are situated where some or all the factors influencing the industrial location are easily available.
• These factors include raw materials, labor, transportation, power, and market demand.
• While it is true that industries are situated where the factors influencing the industrial location are easily available, it is not the only reason why industrialization leads to the development and growth of towns and cities.
• Other factors such as urbanization, migration, and government policies also play a significant role.

The correct answer is it helps to retain soil moisture.

Key Points

• The process of covering the bare ground between plants with a layer of organic matter, to retain soil moisture is known as mulching.
• The material used for covering is called 'Mulch.'
• Mulching is usually practiced when cultivating commercially important crops, fruit trees, vegetables, flowers, nursery saplings, etc.

Additional Information

• Mulching can also suppress the growth of weeds, reducing competition for nutrients and water.
• Overall, mulching is a simple and effective technique for improving soil health and plant growth, and it has multiple benefits for farmers and gardeners alike.

The correct answer is (A), (C) and (D).

Key Points

• The question is about identifying statements that represent social-cultural diversity in India.
• Option 1 (A) represents diversity as it mentions a person wearing traditional attire (Mekhala) to a religious place (Church).
• Option 2 (B) represents diversity as it mentions a family engaging in a profession (sanitation work) that is often stigmatized in society which is not related to diversity.
• Option 3 (C) represents diversity as it mentions a person celebrating a religious festival (Eid) that is not commonly celebrated by all communities in India.
• Option 4 (D) **represents diversity as it mentions a person visiting their hometown during a festival (**Teej) that is specific to a certain region in India.
• The correct answer is option 3, as it includes statements (A), (C), and (D) that represent social-cultural diversity in India.

Additional Information

• Celebrating religious festivals is an important aspect of social-cultural diversity in India.
• India is home to many different religious communities, each with their own unique festivals and traditions.
• Many festivals in India are celebrated regionally, and may not be widely known or celebrated in other parts of the country.

The correct answer is Local Media.

Key Points

• Option 2: Local Media - This is the correct option as Khabar Lahriya is a fortnightly newspaper that covers local news in rural areas of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
• Khabar Lahriya is a fortnightly newspaper.
• It covers local news in rural areas of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
• It is an example of local media
• It is written and produced by women journalists.

Additional Information

• State Media refers to media outlets that are controlled by the government of a state.
• National Media refers to media outlets that cover news and events at a national level.
• International Media refers to media outlets that cover news and events from around the world.

The correct answer is (A), (B) and (D).

Key Points

• The correct answer is Option 3, which includes:
• Describe all the aspects of the story:
• A balanced report should cover all relevant aspects of the story, presenting all sides of the issue and providing the necessary context.
• Be non-partial: A balanced report should not take sides or favor any particular party or perspective.
• It should present the facts objectively and let the readers form their own opinions.
• -Be free from political influence: A balanced report should not be influenced by any political agenda or bias. It should be based on accurate and verifiable information, not propaganda or misinformation.
• Option A includes describing all aspects of the story, which is correct but also includes favoring the party in power, which is not a requirement for a balanced report.
• Option B includes being non-partial, which is correct, but also includes favoring the party in power and is therefore incorrect.
• Option D includes being free from political influence, which is correct, but also includes favoring the party in power, which is not a requirement for a balanced report.

Additional Information

• A balanced report should also be well-researched, with reliable sources and evidence to support the claims made in the article.
• A balanced report should avoid sensationalism and exaggeration, presenting the facts in a clear and concise manner.
• A balanced report should be written in a neutral tone, avoiding emotional language or personal opinions.

The correct answer is the degree of interference in religious affairs.

Key Points

• The correct answer is option 1, i.e., the degree of interference in religious affairs is different in the USA and India.
• Explanation:
• The following points explain why option 1 is the correct answer:
• In the USA, the government is strictly prohibited from interfering in religious matters, and there is a clear separation of church and state.
• On the other hand, in India, the government has the power to regulate religious institutions and can interfere in their affairs if deemed necessary.
• In the USA, religious establishments are given more autonomy and are free to operate independently.
• In contrast, in India, religious institutions are subject to government regulations and control, and their autonomy is limited.
• In the USA, there is no official state religion, and all religions are recognized equally.

Additional Information

• Option 2: Autonomy given to religious establishments is already covered in the explanation of option 1.
• Option 3: Recognition of religious establishments is also different in both countries, as mentioned in point 3 of the explanation.
• Option 4: Both countries have laws that protect the rights of minorities. However, the extent of these rights and their implementation may vary.

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

Key Points

• The correct answer is option 3.
• Explanation:
• The Constitution of India recognizes the right to water as being a part of the Right to Life under Article 21. This means that every citizen has the right to access clean and safe drinking water.
• However, it is not the right of every person, whether rich or poor, to have a sufficient amount of water to fulfill his/her daily needs free of cost.
• While the government is responsible for providing basic public facilities, it is not obligated to provide them for free.

 Additional Information

• While the government is responsible for providing basic public facilities, including water supply, it is often unable to provide it to everyone due to various reasons such as lack of infrastructure, resources, and corruption. In such cases, citizens may have to rely on alternative sources of water, which may not be safe for consumption.

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

Key Points

• Explanation of the correct option:
• Statement (A) is true because before the 1980s, industries were not regulated, and they were free to pollute the environment without any restrictions.
• Statement (B) is false because Union Carbide did not spend good money to clean up the pollution caused due to gas leaks. They only paid a small amount as compensation to the victims.

Additional Information

• The Bhopal gas tragedy occurred in 1984.
• The gas leak was caused by a pesticide plant owned by Union Carbide.
• The gas leak killed thousands of people and caused long-term health effects for many more.
• The tragedy led to stricter regulations for industries in India.

The correct answer is Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain.

Key Points​

Sultana’s Dream is a feminist utopian novel written by Rokeya Hussain (also knows as Rokeya Begum) and was published in 1905 by The Indian Ladies Magazine.  

• The novel portrays a world in which women rule the world and men are subordinate beings. Women control all aspects and are aided by new technology such as flying cars and solar energy in order to help maintain their rule.
• The novel details the daily lives of these women, which consists of a two-hour workday, and goes on to display the advances made by women in a solely female-dominated society.
• The novel also explores a new religious aspect in that the religion practiced is a modern concept of love and kindness, whereby purity is the most important factor of all.

Additional Information

• Pandita Ramabai was a social reformer and writer who advocated for women's education and rights in India. She is known for her work on the plight of widows in Hindu society.
• Uma Chakravarti is a feminist historian and writer who has written extensively on gender, caste, and politics in India. She is known for her work on the history of the anti-caste movement in India.
• Ismat Chugtai was an Urdu language writer who is known for her frank and controversial portrayals of women's sexuality and relationships. She is considered a pioneering feminist writer in Urdu literature.

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

Key Poins

Additional Information

• Stereotyping and discrimination can lead to harmful actions and negative consequences.
• Violations of laws and disrespect towards others can lead to legal consequences and harm to individuals and society.
• It is important to educate oneself and others on these issues to promote a more inclusive and respectful society.

The correct answer is Fundamental Rights.

Key Points

• The correct answer is option 1, which is Fundamental Rights.
• Fundamental Rights are enshrined in the Constitution of India and are considered to be the most important rights that every citizen is entitled to.
• These rights include the right to equality, the right to freedom, the right against exploitation, the right to freedom of religion, cultural and educational rights, and the right to constitutional remedies.
• The right to constitutional remedies is particularly important in this context because it allows individuals to approach the Supreme Court directly if they feel that their fundamental rights have been violated.
• This means that if an individual feels that their fundamental rights have been abrogated, they can file a writ petition directly in the Supreme Court for the redressal of grievances.

Additional Information

• Legal Rights refer to the rights that are recognized by law and can be enforced through legal action.
• Civil Rights refer to the rights that protect individuals from discrimination based on characteristics such as race, gender, religion, etc.
• Political Rights refer to the rights that individuals have to participate in the political process, such as the right to vote and the right to run for office.

The correct answer is (A) and (D).

Key Points

• Fundamental Duties:
• The fundamental duties were incorporated in Part IV-A of our constitution through the 42^nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976.
• At present, there are eleven fundamental duties under Article 51 A of the Constitution.
• The idea of Fundamental Duties has been borrowed from the erstwhile USSR.
• Originally the duties were ten in number, later on through the 86^th Amendment Act, of 2002, the eleventh Fundamental duty was added.
• Swaran Singh Committee recommended the inclusion of Fundamental Duties in the Indian Constitution.
• Fundamental duties are non-justiciable in nature but can be enforceable.
• Fundamental Duties:

1. Abide by the Indian Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag, and the National Anthem.
2. Cherish and follow the noble ideals that inspired the national struggle for freedom
3. Uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India
4. Defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so
5. Promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all the people of India transcending religious, linguistic, and regional or sectional diversities and to renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women
6. Value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture
7. Protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, and have compassion for living creatures
8. Develop scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform
9. Safeguard public property and to abjure violence
10. Strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity so that the nation constantly rises to higher levels of endeavor and achievement
11. Provide opportunities for education to one's child between the age of six and fourteen years.

.

The correct answer is Article 39 A.

Key Points

• The correct answer is option 2, Article 39 A.
• Explanation:
• Article 39 A of the Indian Constitution provides for equal justice and free legal aid to all citizens of India.
• It places a duty upon the state to provide a lawyer to any citizen who is unable to engage one due to poor socio-economic conditions or other kinds of disability.
• This provision ensures that access to justice is not denied to anyone on the basis of their economic or social status.
• Legal aid can be provided in civil, criminal, or any other proceeding before any court or tribunal.

Additional Information

• Article 22 provides protection to a person who is arrested or detained.
• Article 21 A provides the right to education for all children between the ages of 6 and 14 years.
• Article 17 abolishes untouchability and prohibits its practice in any form.

The correct answer is not dominated by the culture of the majority community.

Key Points

• Option 1: can be protected from the various communities - This option is not correct as it does not address the issue of cultural justice and how the Constitution of India grants cultural rights to distinct groups.
• Option 2: is not dominated by the culture of the majority community.
• ​ This is the correct option as the Constitution of India grants cultural rights to distinct groups to ensure that their culture is not dominated by the culture of the majority community.
• Option 3: can be at par with that of the culture of majority communities - This option is not correct as the Constitution of India aims to provide cultural justice to distinct groups, not to make their culture equal to that of the majority community.
• Option 4: can be duly recognized by others - This option is partially correct, as the Constitution of India does aim to grant cultural rights to distinct groups to ensure that their culture is recognized by others. However, this is not the main reason for granting cultural rights. O

Additional Information

• The Constitution of India grants cultural rights to distinct groups through various provisions such as the right to conserve and promote their culture, the right to establish and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes, and the right to administer their own cultural and educational institutions.
• The aim of granting cultural rights is to ensure that distinct cultural and religious groups are able to preserve and promote their culture without any interference or domination from the majority community.

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

Key Points

• The correct option is 3) (A) is true but (B) is false.
• Explanation: - Statement (A) is true as the government in India does take various measures such as setting up committees and undertaking surveys for the marginalised groups.
• However, statement (B) is false as the measures are not taken for the purpose of making these groups recognize and appreciate the role of political parties running the government.
• The measures are taken to uplift marginalized groups and provide them with equal opportunities and rights.
• The government also aims to bring about social and economic development for these groups through various policies and schemes.