Search Previous Year Questions

The correct answer is 1, 2 and 4.

Key Points

• Disbanding of Zamindars' Troops: The Permanent Settlement of Bengal (introduced in 1793 by Lord Cornwallis) sought to create a class of loyal zamindars. To ensure stability and prevent rebellion, zamindars' private armies were disbanded, as the British preferred a centralized control over armed forces.
• Power of Jotedars: Within villages, the jotedars (rich peasants or landholders) held significant influence, often exceeding that of zamindars. They controlled local resources and were instrumental in managing agricultural production, making their power more effective in rural areas.
• Adhiyars and Bargadars: Adhiyars were sharecroppers who cultivated land on the condition of sharing the produce with the landowners. Bargadars (another term for sharecroppers) owned the land, while adhiyars worked on it under a sharecropping arrangement.
• Focus of the Permanent Settlement: The British introduced this system to stabilize revenue collection by fixing land revenue permanently, benefiting zamindars while often neglecting the plight of peasants.

Additional Information

• Statement 3: The East India Company did not make any specific rule to protect women's property rights under the Permanent Settlement. The focus was on revenue collection, and gender-related property laws were largely shaped by traditional customs and personal laws rather than Company regulations.
• Significance of the Permanent Settlement:
• The system created a hereditary class of zamindars who were responsible for paying a fixed amount of land revenue to the British government.
• While it ensured a stable income for the British, it led to exploitation of peasants, as zamindars often charged excessive rents.
• Over time, many zamindars lost their lands due to inability to pay fixed revenues, leading to the rise of intermediaries like jotedars.
• Impact on Agriculture:
• Peasants faced hardships as zamindars prioritized revenue collection over agricultural development.
• There was little incentive for zamindars to invest in agricultural improvements, leading to stagnation in productivity.
• Key Terminologies:
• Jotedars: Wealthy peasants or landholders who were often more powerful than zamindars in rural areas.
• Adhiyars: Sharecroppers who cultivated land under the condition of sharing a part of the produce with landowners.
• Bargadars: Landowners who allowed sharecroppers to cultivate their land in return for a share of the produce.

The correct answer is 4, 3,2, 1.

Key Points

• A. Kudi Arasu - E.V. Ramaswami Naicker: Kudi Arasu was a Tamil weekly journal founded by E.V. Ramaswami Naicker, also known as Periyar, in 1925. The journal advocated for social reform, rationalism, and the eradication of caste discrimination.
• B. Kisan Bulletin - Indulal Yagnik: The Kisan Bulletin was started by Indulal Yagnik to address agricultural and farmer-related issues. Yagnik was a prominent leader in Gujarat and known for his involvement in farmers' movements.
• C. Bombay Chronicle - Pherozeshah Mehta: The Bombay Chronicle was an English-language newspaper established by Pherozeshah Mehta in 1913. It played a vital role in India's independence movement, highlighting nationalist perspectives.
• D. Bhawani Mandir - Aurobindo Ghosh: Bhawani Mandir was a pamphlet written by Aurobindo Ghosh. It called for the establishment of a temple dedicated to Bhawani (the goddess) as a spiritual center to inspire revolutionary activities against colonial rule.

Additional Information

• E.V. Ramaswami Naicker (Periyar):
• He is regarded as the father of the Dravidian movement and was a staunch advocate of social justice and rationalism.
• Periyar's efforts were focused on abolishing caste-based inequalities and promoting gender equality in Tamil Nadu.
• Indulal Yagnik:
• He was a leader of the farmers' movement in Gujarat and a staunch advocate of rural development.
• He played a significant role in the formation of the Gujarat state and was associated with the Kheda and Bardoli Satyagraha movements.
• Pherozeshah Mehta:
• He was one of the founding members of the Indian National Congress and a renowned lawyer and statesman.
• Pherozeshah Mehta was known as the "Lion of Bombay" for his contributions to India's independence movement and civic reforms in Bombay.
• Aurobindo Ghosh:
• Aurobindo Ghosh was a prominent nationalist, philosopher, and spiritual leader.
• He contributed significantly to India's revolutionary activities and later focused on spirituality, founding the Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry.
• His writings, including Bhawani Mandir, emphasized the spiritual foundation of India's independence movement.

The correct answer is 1, 2 and 3.

Key Points

• The Ghadar Movement began in 1913 in San Francisco, United States, primarily initiated by Indian immigrants to fight against British colonial rule in India.
• Sohan Singh Bhakna was the founder and first president of the Ghadar Party, which was a key organization spearheading the movement.
• The movement derived its name from the weekly publication "Ghadar", which was circulated in multiple Indian languages such as Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu, etc., to promote revolutionary ideas.
• The Ghadarites aimed at overthrowing British rule through armed rebellion and revolutionary activities, often inspired by the events of the 1857 Revolt in India.
• The primary base of the movement was among Indian immigrants, particularly Punjabis, in North America and other regions like East Asia.

Additional Information

• About the Ghadar Movement:
• The Ghadar Party was originally established as the Pacific Coast Hindustan Association in 1913, later renamed the Ghadar Party.
• The term "Ghadar" means "rebellion" or "revolt," symbolizing their aim to incite a mass uprising in India against British rule.
• Prominent leaders of the movement included Kartar Singh Sarabha, Har Dayal, and Rashbehari Bose, in addition to Sohan Singh Bhakna.
• The Ghadarites also collaborated with other revolutionary groups and sought support from international powers, including Germany, during World War I to further their cause.
• Despite several setbacks, such as the failure of the Ghadar Conspiracy (1915) and harsh suppression by the British, the movement significantly inspired India's struggle for independence.
• Sohan Singh Bhakna:
• Sohan Singh Bhakna (1870–1968) was a prominent Indian revolutionary who played a pivotal role in founding the Ghadar Party.
• He envisioned a unified effort among Indian immigrants across the globe to liberate India from British imperialism.
• Bhakna was imprisoned multiple times during his lifetime for his revolutionary activities, and he later became associated with the Indian communist movement.
• Ghadar Weekly:
• The Ghadar newspaper was first published in November 1913, serving as the mouthpiece of the Ghadar Party.
• The publication featured articles on the atrocities committed by British colonial authorities, the need for independence, and calls for revolutionary action.
• It was printed in multiple languages, including Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu, and Bengali, to reach a broader audience among the Indian diaspora.

The correct answer is 1, 2, 3, 4.

Key Points

• Poona Sarvajanik Sabha (1870): Formed in Pune, this was one of the earliest political associations in British India aimed at creating public opinion and representing the interests of the Indian populace.
• Indian Association (1876): Founded by Surendranath Banerjee and Ananda Mohan Bose, it was established in Bengal to create a strong public opinion and promote political consciousness.
• Madras Mahajan Sabha (1884): Established in the Madras Presidency, it played a significant role in the political awakening of southern India and was one of the precursors to the Indian National Congress.
• Bombay Presidency Association (1885): Founded by prominent leaders like Pherozeshah Mehta, Badruddin Tyabji, and K.T. Telang, it worked for the political and social upliftment of the people of Bombay.

Additional Information

• Poona Sarvajanik Sabha:
• It was initially established as a public platform to represent the grievances of Indian citizens to the British government.
• It played a crucial role in the socio-political awakening of Maharashtra.
• Indian Association:
• It merged with the Indian National Congress after its formation in 1885.
• The association was instrumental in mobilizing the middle-class intelligentsia in Bengal.
• Madras Mahajan Sabha:
• It served as a forum for nationalist leaders such as G. Subramania Iyer and P. Rangaiah Naidu.
• The Sabha was one of the first political bodies to demand greater representation of Indians in the British administration.
• Bombay Presidency Association:
• It advocated for constitutional reforms and worked towards promoting political awareness.
• The association played a crucial role in the early nationalist movement in western India.

The correct answer is Early Harappan.

Key Points

• Kalibangan, located in Rajasthan, is a prominent site of the Indus Valley Civilization, and it is known for its evidence of agricultural practices.
• The discovery of a ploughed field at Kalibangan is dated to the Early Harappan period, which is around 2800–2600 BCE.
• This ploughed field at Kalibangan is considered one of the earliest examples of agricultural activity in the Indian subcontinent.
• The field shows furrow marks in a grid pattern, indicating the use of ploughs and advanced agricultural techniques.
• Archaeological evidence suggests that crops like barley and sesame were cultivated in this period at Kalibangan.

Additional Information

• Mature Harappan:
• The Mature Harappan phase (2600–1900 BCE) is marked by urbanization and the peak of the Indus Valley Civilization.
• Major features include well-planned cities such as Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa, advanced drainage systems, and standardized weights and measures.
• The focus shifted to trade, craftsmanship, and urban governance during this period rather than extensive agricultural innovations.
• Late Harappan:
• The Late Harappan phase (1900–1300 BCE) is associated with the decline of urban centers and the gradual ruralization of the civilization.
• Settlements became smaller, and the focus moved to subsistence farming and pastoralism.
• Evidence of continued use of Harappan pottery and script during this phase has been found, but urban structures and planning diminished significantly.
• Chalcolithic:
• The Chalcolithic period (Copper Age) in the Indian subcontinent overlaps with the later phases of the Indus Valley Civilization.
• This period is characterized by the use of copper tools alongside stone tools, with evidence of small settlements and the beginning of metal usage.
• While agriculture was practiced, it was not as advanced or systematic as during the Early Harappan period at Kalibangan.

The correct answer is Option 2: 3, 2, 4, 1.

Key Points

1. Dandi March (Event 3) — March 1930

• Date: March 12, 1930 – April 6, 1930.
• Context: Mahatma Gandhi started this march from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi to break the salt law, marking the beginning of the Civil Disobedience Movement.

2. Gandhi-Irwin Pact (Event 2) — March 1931

• Date: March 5, 1931.
• Context: This was a political agreement signed by Mahatma Gandhi and the Viceroy, Lord Irwin. As part of the pact, the Congress agreed to discontinue the Civil Disobedience Movement and participate in the next Round Table Conference.

3. Second Round Table Conference (Event 4) — Sept–Dec 1931

• Date: September 7, 1931 – December 1, 1931.
• Context: Following the Gandhi-Irwin Pact, Gandhi attended this conference in London as the sole representative of the Indian National Congress.

4. Muslim League Resolution for Pakistan (Event 1) — March 1940

• Date: March 24, 1940.
• Context: Also known as the Lahore Resolution, it was passed during the three-day general session of the All-India Muslim League. It formally demanded the creation of "independent states" for Muslims in the North-Western and Eastern zones of India.

The correct answer is 2.

Key Points

• Girnar: The Sudarshana Lake, an artificial reservoir in Gujarat. While the Sudarshana Lake is linked to the Girnar region, it is not directly within Girnar. The lake was originally built by the Mauryan governor Pushyagupta and later repaired during the reign of Skandagupta.
• Cholistan: The Cholistan Desert, located in Pakistan, is well-known for its terracotta models, including the model of a plough, which provides insight into the early agricultural practices of the Indus Valley Civilization.
• Mant (near Mathura): Archaeological findings from this site include the headless standing figure of Emperor Kanishka, a significant artifact from the Kushana period.
• Sannati: This site in Karnataka is famous for the discovery of Ashokan edicts, not in Odisha as mentioned in the pair. Sannati is a significant archaeological site for studying the Mauryan period.
• Out of the given pairs, two pairs are correctly matched (Cholistan and Mant), while the other two are incorrect.

Additional Information

• Girnar: While the Sudarshana Lake is linked to the Girnar region, it is not directly within Girnar. The region is also renowned for its Jain temples and its association with early Mauryan history.
• Cholistan: Known as the Great Indian Desert's extension into Pakistan, Cholistan is famous for the Derawar Fort and remnants of the Indus Valley Civilization, including terracotta artifacts such as the model of a plough.
• Mant: This site is significant for its Kushana-era archaeological discoveries, including inscriptions and sculptures, particularly those linked to Emperor Kanishka. The headless statue is a key artifact depicting his reign.
• Sannati: Located on the banks of the Bhima River in Karnataka, Sannati is renowned for the discovery of Ashokan edicts, including the only known edict with Emperor Ashoka’s name explicitly mentioned. The site also houses significant Buddhist relics.
• The question highlights the importance of archaeological sites and their historical associations, which help in understanding ancient civilizations and cultural heritage.

The correct answer is They were not allowed to use their share of revenue for the maintenance of temples..

Key Points

• The Amara-Nayaka system was a significant political innovation during the Vijayanagara Empire.
• The Nayakas, or military commanders, were granted territories called "Amara" to govern and collect taxes.
• They were allowed to retain a portion of the collected revenue to maintain a stipulated contingent of troops, including horses and elephants.
• Contrary to the incorrect option, Nayakas had the authority to use their revenue share for various purposes, including the upkeep of temples.
• Temples played a crucial role in the Vijayanagara Empire's socio-economic and political framework, and Nayakas often contributed resources for their maintenance and development.

Additional Information

• Political Innovation of the Vijayanagara Empire:
• The Vijayanagara Empire, established in 1336, was known for its administrative and military innovations.
• The Amara-Nayaka system was one such innovation, where Nayakas were appointed to manage specific territories in exchange for military service.
• This system ensured the availability of a large, decentralized military force and strengthened the empire's control over vast regions.
• Role of Nayakas:
• Nayakas were military commanders who governed their territories and collected taxes from peasants, traders, and artisans.
• They were responsible for maintaining law and order and providing military support to the central authority during times of war.
• The Nayakas retained a portion of the tax revenue to sustain their troops and administration.
• Revenue Usage:
• Nayakas used their revenue share for various purposes, including the maintenance of temples, which were vital in the socio-political life of the Vijayanagara Empire.
• Temples were centers of economic activity, cultural development, and religious patronage, often supported by Nayakas.
• Significance of Temples:
• Temples in the Vijayanagara Empire were not just religious sites but also hubs of economic and social activity.
• The Nayakas often made donations for temple construction, maintenance, and rituals, showcasing their devotion and allegiance to the empire.
• Temple patronage by Nayakas was a way of legitimizing their authority and demonstrating loyalty to the central rulers.

The correct answer is Subhadra Kumari Chauhan.

Key Points

• The poem "Khoob ladi mardani woh to Jhansi wali Rani thi" was written by Subhadra Kumari Chauhan, one of India's most celebrated poets.
• This iconic poem glorifies the bravery of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi during the First War of Indian Independence in 1857.
• Subhadra Kumari Chauhan was known for her nationalistic and inspirational poetry, which played a significant role in the Indian freedom struggle.
• The poem is part of Indian school curricula and is widely recited to evoke patriotism and respect for Indian history.
• Subhadra Kumari Chauhan was the first woman Satyagrahi to be arrested during the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1923.

Additional Information

• Mahadevi Varma
• Mahadevi Varma was a prominent Hindi poet and a major figure in the Chhayavaad movement (Neo-Romanticism) of Hindi literature.
• She is known for her works like "Yama," which won the Jnanpith Award in 1982.
• She contributed significantly to Hindi prose and poetry, focusing on women's issues and human suffering.
• Amrita Pritam
• Amrita Pritam was a celebrated Punjabi and Hindi writer, best known for her novel "Pinjar" and her poem "Ajj Aakhaan Waris Shah Nu."
• She was the first woman to receive the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1956.
• Her works often addressed themes of love, partition, and feminism.
• Balamani Amma
• Balamani Amma was a renowned Indian poet who wrote in the Malayalam language.
• She was known as the "Grandmother of Malayalam literature."
• Her major works include "Amma," "Muthassi," and "Sopanam."
• She received numerous awards, including the Saraswati Samman and the Padma Bhushan.
• Rani Lakshmibai
• The poem is centered on the legendary figure of Rani Lakshmibai, the Queen of Jhansi, who was a key leader in the 1857 Indian Rebellion.
• She is remembered for her courage, leadership, and sacrifice in fighting against British colonial rule.
• Her story continues to inspire generations and is an integral part of India's historical narrative.

The correct answer is 4) Neither 1 nor 2.

Key Points

• Ellora is not exclusively associated with Buddhism. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases rock-cut caves belonging to three major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
• The site contains 34 caves, of which 12 are Buddhist, 17 are Hindu, and 5 are Jain, reflecting religious harmony and cultural fusion during the 6^th to 9^th centuries CE.
• The Kailasa temple (Cave 16) at Ellora is a monolithic rock-cut temple carved out of a single basalt rock, and it is not built using dressed stone or kiln-fired bricks.
• The Kailasa temple is a masterpiece of ancient Indian architecture, attributed to the Rashtrakuta king Krishna I (8^th century CE). It symbolizes Mount Kailasa, the abode of Lord Shiva.
• The temple was created using the "cut-from-top" method, where artisans started carving from the top of the rock and worked their way downward.

Additional Information

• Statement 1:
• Ellora's caves are not exclusively associated with Buddhism. While Ajanta caves (a nearby site) are predominantly Buddhist, Ellora represents the coexistence of three religions.
• The Buddhist caves (Caves 1-12) include monasteries and chaityas, showcasing the Mahayana Buddhist traditions.
• Hindu caves (Caves 13-29) display intricate carvings of Hindu deities, including the famous Kailasa temple.
• The Jain caves (Caves 30-34) highlight Jain philosophy and simplicity, with beautiful carvings of Tirthankaras.
• Statement 2:
• The Kailasa temple is a monolithic structure carved entirely from a single rock, without the use of bricks or dressed stones.
• It is considered one of the largest monolithic structures in the world, showcasing advanced engineering and architectural skills of ancient India.
• The temple features intricate carvings, sculptures, and architectural elements, such as gopuras, pillars, and courtyards.
• Main Theme:
• Ellora Caves are a testament to India's rich cultural heritage and architectural excellence. They demonstrate artistic collaboration and religious harmony during ancient times.
• The site continues to be a significant tourist attraction and a symbol of India's diverse spiritual traditions.