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Teachers recommend solving Kerala Syllabus Plus Two Sociology Previous Year Question Papers and Answers Pdf March 2023 to improve time management during exams.

Kerala Plus Two Sociology Previous Year Question Paper March 2023

Answer any 9 questions from 1 to 10. Each carries 1 score. (9 × 1 = 9)

Question 1.
According to Malthusian Theory of Population growth, population rises in ____.
(a) Arithmetic progression
(b) Geometric progression
(c) Homogenous progression
(d) None of these
Answer:
(b) Geometric progression

Question 2.
The family in which mother has the authority and dominance is known as _______.
(a) Patrilineal
(b) Patriarchal
(c) Matriarchal
(d) Matrilocal
Answer:
(c) Matriarchal

Question 3.
Name the Anthropologist who pointed out the social importance of market.
(a) Karl Marx
(b) Adam Smith
(c) M.N. Srinivas
(d) Alfred Cell
Answer:
(d) Alfred Cell

Question 4.
____ refers to the way in which individuals may become cut off from the full involvement in the wider society.
(a) Untouchability
(b) Exploitation
(c) Social exclusion
(d) Social stratification
Answer:
(c) Social exclusion

Question 5.
Which Articles of Indian Constitution protect the rights of minorities?
(a) Article 29 & 30
(b) Article 30 & 31
(c) Article 27 & 28
(d) Article 25 & 26
Answer:
(a) Article 29 & 30

Question 6.
The concept ‘Westernisation’ was introduced by
(a) M.N. Srinvas
(b) D.P. Mukherji
(c) A.R. Desai
(d) G.S. Ghurye
Answer:
(a) M.N. Srinvas

Question 7.
Which among the following is a Basic value of Indian democracy?
(a) Law
(b) Custom
(c) Social Justice
(d) Tradition
Answer:
(c) Social Justice

Question 8.
Identify the item which is not a feature of dominant caste.
(a) Numerical strength
(b) Economic power
(c) Religious power
(d) Political influence
Answer:
(c) Religious power

Question 9.
The mixing of the global culture with local culture is known as ______.
(a) Glocalisation
(b) Digital divide
(c) Homogenous culture
(d) Corporate culture
Answer:
(a) Glocalisation

Question 10.
Who started the newspaper Sambad – Kaumudi?
(a) Sree Narayana Guru
(b) Raja Rammohan Roy
(c) E.V. Ramaswami Naickar
Answer:
(b) Raja Rammohan Roy

Answer all questions from 11 to 15. Each carries 2 scores. (5 × 2 = 10)

Question 11.
Define Social map and give one example.
Answer:
A social map is a visual representation of social connections and networks that helps locate individuals and groups in relation to one another. Eg:- social group related language, race, caste etc.

Question 12.
Name any two port cities that emerged during the colonial period in India.
Answer:
(i) Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay) – It was a major port city and economic hub for the British East India Company, serving as a gateway for trade with Europe and other parts of the world.

(ii) Chennai (formerly known as Madras) – It was an important port city for the British East India Company and played a key role in trade with Europe and other parts of the world.

(iii) Kolkata (formerly known as Calcutta) – It was a significant port city for the British East India Company and served as the capital of British India until 1911.

Question 13.
What is meant by Outsourcing?
Answer:
Outsourcing is a business practice where companies contract external service providers to handle specific tasks or services that would typically be carried out by their permanent workers. Companies may choose to outsource to reduce costs, increase efficiency, or access specialized expertise.

Question 14.
What is Social movement?
Answer:
Asocial movement is a long and continuous social effort and action by people who share common goals or interests. It is an organized effort based on ideologies, leadership, and collective action aimed at bringing about social change. Social movements can take many form’s, such as protests, demonstrations, boycotts, and advocacy campaigns.

Question 15.
Write any two dimensions of untouchability.
Answer:
Untouchability is a social practice with several dimensions, including exclusion, humiliation, subordination, and exploitation. Exclusion- refers to the social isolation of individuals or groups deemed “untouchable” by the dominant caste system.

Humiliation- involves the degradation and dehumanization of these individuals, often through physical and verbal abuse. Subordination involves the systematic denial of rights and opportunities, leading to a lack of agency and social mobility. Exploitation- refers to the economic and labor exploitation of “untouchable” individuals, who are often forced into menial and low-paying jobs.

Answer any 3 questions from 16 to 19. Each carries 4 scores.

Question 16.
What is the difference between Common sense knowledge and Sociological imagination?
Answer:
Common sense knowledge refers to the everyday understanding and beliefs that people have about the world based on their personal experiences and observations. It is often rooted in naturalistic or individualistic explanations and is partial, may be biased and is not scientifically based. It s based on individual experiences and observations.

Sociological imagination is a concept introduced by sociologist C. Wright Mills, which refers to the ability to connect individual experiences with larger social structures and processes. It involves seeing the links between personal troubles and social issues, and recognizing that personal problems are often connected to larger societal problems. It involves an understanding of broader social structures and patterns that may not be immediately visible to individuals.

Question 17.
Differentiate between commoditisation and consumption.
Answer:
Commoditization refers to the process by which things that were earlier not traded in the market become commodities. It is a feature of capitalist society, where goods and services are produced for the purpose of exchange value and profit. Eg:- bottled water, labor or skills, sale of kidney etc

Consumption on the other hand, refers to the final use of goods and services by consumers. It is the act of acquiring, using, and disposing of goods and services by individuals or groups. Consumption can be influenced by cultural, social, and economic factors. Eg:- consumption of luxury goods like designer clothing or high-end cars can be seen as a way to convert socio-economic status into status symbols.

Question 18.
Explain the following:
(a) Industrialisation
(b) Deindustrialisation
Answer:
(a) Industrialization is a process that involved the emergence of machine production, where traditional handcrafting and manual labor were replaced by machines that used inanimate power resources like steam or electricity. It led to the development of factory-based mass production, where goods were produced in large quantities by specialized workers using machinery. This led to increased efficiency, higher productivity, and lower production costs, which allowed for the production of goods on a larger scale and at a lower cost.

(b) Deindustrialization refers to the decline of traditional Indian handicraft industries like cotton and silk manufacturers during the early British rule. As a result of deindustrialization, there was a decline , of old urban centers that were traditionally associated with manufacturing, as workers and industries moved to other areas. Deindustrialization had significant social and economic impacts in India, as it led to the loss of jobs and livelihoods for many people, particularly those in the’ manufacturing sector.

Question 19.
List out the features of organised sector.
Answer:
The organized sector refers to those sectors of the economy where employment relationships are governed by labor laws, and workers enjoy a higher degree of protection and benefits compared to those in the informal sector. Some of the key features of the organized sector include:

1. Ten or more people/workers employed throughout the year.
2. The organization must be registered with the government to ensure wages for employees are in compliance with labor laws.
3. Employees receive benefits such as pensions, insurance, and other social. security benefits.
4. Employment security is provided, and workers have formal contracts.
5. The organization is organized and often has trade unions to represent workers’ interests in negotiating wages and working conditions.

These features differentiate the organized sector from the informal sector, where workers often do not enjoy these benefits and may have more precarious working arrangements. The organized sector is an important part of the economy, providing stable employment opportunities and contributing to economic growth and development.

Answer any 3 questions from 20 to 23. Each carries 5 scores.(3 × 5 = 15)

Question 20.
Analyse the reasons for the declining sex ratio in Indian society.
Answer:
The declining sex ratio in Indian society is a matter of concern as it reflects the declining number of females in comparison to males. Some of the reasons for this decline are:

Health factors : Girls in India face health challenges due to poor nutrition, lack of access to healthcare, and a higher susceptibility to diseases. These factors can lead to higher mortality rates among girls, which can contribute to a decline in the sex ratio.

Maternal mortality : Maternal mortality is a significant problem in India, with many women dying due to complications during childbirth. This can have an impact oh the sex ratio as women who die during childbirth may have been carrying female foetuses.

Lack of education and awareness : Education and awareness play a crucial role in empowering women and ensuring their wellbeing. In India, many girls do not have access to education, which’ can lead to a lack of awareness about their rights and health issues.

Differential treatment of girls : In many parts of India, girls are treated differently from boys and may face discrimination and neglect. This can lead to a lower value being placed on the lives of girs and contribute to the declining sex ratio.

Female infanticide : In some parts of India, female.infanticide still occurs, where female babies are killed soon after birth. This is often due to cultural beliefs that favour male children overfemale children. .

Sex-specific abortions : With the advent of medical technology, sex-specific abortions have become more prevalent in India. Some families may choose to abort female foetuses, leading to a decline in the sex ratio. Overall, the declining sex ratio in Indian society is a complex issue that is influenced by various social, cultural, and economic factors. Addressing these factors will require a multi-faceted approach that involves education, awareness-raising, and policies

Question 21.
Explain the powers and responsibilities of Panchayats.
Answer:
Panchayats are local self-government bodies in India, which are entrusted with a range of powers and responsibilities. Here are some of the key responsibilities and powers of panchayats:

1. Prepare plans and schemes for economic development: One of the primary functions of panchayats is to prepare plans and schemes for the economic development of their respective areas. This includes identifying and promoting industries, encoura’ging entrepreneurship, and providing employment opportunities.

2. Promote schemes for enhancing social justice: Panchayats also have a responsibility to promote schemes and programs that aim to enhance social justice, including measures for the welfare of disadvantaged groups, such as women, Dalits, and other marginalized communities.

3. Collect levy, taxes, tolls, fees etc.: Panchayats have the power to collect various types of taxes, tolls, fees, and levies from the residents of their respective areas. This includes property taxes, entertainment taxes, and other taxes related to the services provided by the panchayat.

4. Devolution of government responsibilities: Panchayats are an important means of decentralizing government responsibilities and bringing governance closer to the people. They are empowered to undertake various functions and activities that were previously the responsibility of higher levels of government.

5. Maintenance of burial grounds: One of the key responsibilities of panchayats is to ensure the proper maintenance of burial grounds and cremation grounds in their respective areas. This includes providing facilities for cremation, burial, and other funeral rites.

6. Recording statistics of birth and death: Panchayats are also responsible for maintaining records of births and deaths in their respective areas. This information is used for a variety of purposes, including
planning and development activities.

7. Child welfare and maternity center establishment: Panchayats have a responsibility to promote the welfare of children and mothers in their respective areas. This includes the establishment of child welfare and maternity centers, which provide essential services such as immunization, health check-ups, and nutritional support.

8. Promotion of agricultural activities: Panchayats are alsfo responsible for promoting agricultural activities in their respective areas. This includes providing farmers with access to credit, promoting crop diversification, and providing technical assistance and support for agricultural practices. Overall, panchayats play a crucial role in promoting local development, promoting social justice, and ensuring effective governance at the grassroots level.

Question 22.
Why globalisation is a threat to the indigenous craft, literary traditions and knowledge systems?
Answer:
Globalization, which refers to the increased interconnectedness of the world’s economies, cultures, and societies, has had both positive and negative impacts on various aspects of human life. One of the negative impacts of globalization is the threat it poses to indigenous craft, literary traditions, and knowledge systems. In this regard, there are several reasons why globalization is seen as a threat to these aspects of traditional cultures.

Firstly, the decline of cotton industries and mills has had a significant impact on the livelihoods of weavers and other workers involved in textile production. Due to the increased competition from power looms and changing consumer tastes, many traditional weavers and artisans have been forced to abandon their craft and seek alternative means of income. This has led to a decline in the traditional skills and knowledge required for textile production, which may be lost forever if not adequately preserved.

Secondly, many traditional artisans and workers do not have access to the necessary technology to keep up with the demands of a globalized market. They lack the resources to invest in modern equipment,’which makes their production slower and less efficient than that of their global counterparts. As a result, they struggle to compete with more modernized industries and markets.

Thirdly, multinational companies taking patents on the use of traditional medicinal and agricultural products, such as tulsi, turmeric, and basmati rice, threatens the survival of indigenous knowledge systems. These companies often exploit the traditional knowledge of local communities, and extract profit from it without adequately compensating the communities that have generated this knowledge. This undermines the sustainability of traditional practices and erodes the cultural heritage of local communities.

Finally, the lack of protection for traditional knowledge systems means that indigenous communities are at risk of losing their unique cultural heritage. Traditional knowledge in medicine, agriculture, and other fields is often passed down from generation to generation through oral traditions, but the globalization * of these industries means that these traditions are often ignored in favor of more “modern” approaches. This has led to a loss of cultural diversity, which is an essential aspect of human heritage.

In conclusion, the threat posed by globalization to indigenous craft, literary traditions, and knowledge systems is a significant concern that needs to be addressed. We should strive to protect and preserve traditional knowledge and practices, to ensure that they continue to play a vital role in our world. This can be achieved through the recognition and protection of traditional knowledge, investing in traditional industries, and promoting cultural exchange and collaboration.

Question 23.
Match the following:

A	B
Jharkhand Movement	Adidharma Movement
Dalit Movement	Mc Carthy & Zald
Chipko Movement	SNDP Movement
Resource Mobilisation	Theory Unquiet Woods
Redemptive Social Movement	Birsa Munda

Answer:

A	B
Jharkhand Movement	Birsa Munda
Dalit Movement	Adidharma Movement
Chipko Movement	Unquiet woods
Resource Mobilisation	McCarthy 8 Zaid
Redemptive Social Movement	SNDP movement

Answer any 3 questions from 24 to 27. Each carries 6 scores. (3 × 6 = 18)

Question 24.
(a) Write any two features of Marketisation.
(b) Analyse the impact of liberalisation and marketisation in Indian economy.
Answer:
a) Marketisation is a process that involves the use of market or market-based mechanisms to address social, political, or economic problems. It has been adopted by many.governments around the world as a way of achieving greater efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and responsiveness in the delivery of public goods and services.

Marketisation involves the deregulation of industries and sectors that were previously regulated by the government. This means that businesses are given greater freedom to operate in the market, with fewer restrictions and regulations. Deregulation is seen as a way of promoting competition, reducing barriers to entry, and increasing consumer choice. Secondly, marketisation involves the privatization of public goods and services, such as healthcare, education, and transportation. Privatization is seen as a way of improving efficiency, reducing costs, and increasing innovation. However, it can also lead to inequality, as those who cannot afford to pay for private services are left with inferior public services.

Thirdly, marketisation involves the removal of government control over wages and prices. This means that wages and prices are determined by market forces, such as supply and demand. The idea is that this will lead to greater efficiency and productivity in the market. However, this can also lead to inequality, as those with bargaining power (such as employers) may be able to set wages and prices that are unfair to workers and consumers.

While these policies can lead to greater efficiency and innovation, they can also lead to market failures and inequality. As such, it is important for governments to carefully consider the impact of marketisation on society and to take steps to mitigate any negative effects.

(b)The liberalization and marketization policies had a significant impact on the country’s economy. Here are some of the positive and negative effects of these policies:

Positive Impacts:
1. Stimulated Economic Growth: Liberalization and marketization opened up India’s economy to the world, leading to an increase in foreign investment and trade. This influx of capital helped to stimulate economic growth, leading to an increase in GDP and per capita income.

2. Opening of Indian Markets to Foreign Companies: Liberalization and marketization allowed foreign companies to invest in India and operate freely, which led to an increase in competition and efficiency in the market. This led to a wider choice of products for consumers and better quality goods at lower prices.

3. Foreign Investment: Liberalization and marketization policies created an environment conducive to foreign investment. The increased foreign investment helped to modernize India’s infrastructure and technology, boosting economic growth and creating jobs.

Negative Impacts:
1. Indian Farmers Facing Competition: The liberalization and marketization policies exposed Indian farmers to global competition. The competition resulted in a reduction in the support price and subsidies to agriculture, making it difficult for Indian farmers to compete with foreign farmers. This led to a decline in the income of farmers and a rise in rural indebtedness.

2. Reduction of Support Price and Subsidies to Agriculture: The reduction of support price and subsidies to agriculture led to a decrease in government support for farmers. This has made it difficult for farmers to invest in modern equipment and technology, leading to a decline in agricultural productivity.

3. Loss of Employment: Liberalization and marketization led to the closure of many state-owned enterprises, resulting in job losses. Moreover, the increase in foreign investment has led to a shift in production from labor-intensive to capital-intensive industries, leading tb a decrease in employment opportunities.

4. Growth of Unorganised Sector: Liberalization and marketization have led to the growth of the unorganised sector. This sector comprises small and informal enterprises, which are not regulated by the government. These enterprises provide low wages and poor working conditions to workers, leading to a rise in income inequality.

Question 25.
Critically evaluate the struggles for women’s equality and rights in India.
Answer:
The struggle for women’s equality and rights in India has been a long and arduous one. Historically, the inequality faced by women in India has been based on social, rather than biological factors. Women have been subjected to discrimination and marginalization in various aspects of life, including education, employment, and political representation.

Political Power and Positions:
Only a small percentage of women are found in political power and positions in India. Despite constitutional guarantees of equal political rights, women face several obstacles to their participation in politics, including patriarchal attitudes, lack of education, and social norms that restrict their mobility.

Role of Reformers:
Raja Ram Mohan Roy was against the practice of Sati, and worked to bring about a change in that practice.
MG Ranade co-founded the ‘Widow Marriage Association’ which promoted marriage for Hindu widows and acted as native compradors for the colonial government’s project of passing a law permitting such marriages.
Jyotiba Phule worked for the eradication of untouchability and the caste system and also for educating women and oppressed caste people.

Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was an Indian musli reformer who worked for reforms in Islam. Tarabai Shinde wrote the ‘Stree Purusha Tualana’, a critique of caste and patriarchy, and is often considered he first modern Indian feminist text. Begum Rokeya Shekhawat Hossain wrote the ‘Sultana’s Dream’, a feminist science fiction novella set in Ladyland ruled by women. Rokeya wrote reversing the roles of men and women in which women were the
dominant sex and the men were subordinate and confined to the mandana (the male equivalent of the zenana).

Role of Nationalist Movement:
During the nationalist movement, women’s participation was limited to non-violent protests, organizing public meetings and leading marches. Despite their contribution, women were often relegated to the background, and their efforts were not recognized.

Actions Against Social Evils:
Efforts to address social evils like sati, dowry, and child marriage gained momentum in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Organized campaigns by reformers, social organizations, and nationalist leaders contributed to the passing of laws that abolished these practices.

Organized Efforts in Modern Era:
In the modern era, there has been a concerted effort to address geftder inequality in India. There have been several initiatives, both by the government and civil society, to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment. These include campaigns for girls’ education, reservation for women in local bodies, and economic empowerment through schemes like the Self Help Group.

In conclusion, the struggle for women’s equality and rights in India has been a long and complex one, with significant challenges remaining. While there have been important achievements, such as the abolition of social evils like sati and dowry, women continue to face significant challenges, including limited political representation, discrimination, and violence. It is essential to continue the work of earlier reformers and social organizations and to adopt a.multi-pronged approach that includes legal reform, education, economic empowerment, and social transformation, to address these challenges and create a more equal and just society.

Question 26.
(a) What is Sansrkitisation?
(b) Explain the main criticisms levelled against Sanskritisation.
Answer:
(a) Sanskritisation is a sociological process that refers to the adoption of upper-caste ‘ Hindu customs, practices, and rituals by lower-caste or non-Hindu communities in India. The term was first coined by Indian sociologist M.N. Srinivas in the 1950s. The process of Sanskritisation typically involves the adoption of certain upper- caste Hindu practices such as vegetarianism, caste purity, and religious rituals. It often results in changes to one’s social status and can lead to the upward mobility of certain groups.

(b) Sanskritisation has been a subject of criticism since its inception. One of the main criticisms levelled against it is the exaggeration of social mobility. Sanskritisation is often touted as a means of upward mobility for lower-caste communities. However, this claim has been challenged on several fronts. Critics argue that the adoption of. upper-caste practices does not necessarily lead to social mobility, but rather reinforces existing caste hierarchies. They argue that the promotion of Sanskritisation as a means of social mobility is an exaggeration of its effects.

Another major criticism of Sanskritisation is the acceptance of upper-caste as superior and lower-caste as inferior. By adopting upper-caste practices, lower caste communities may internalize the belief thatupper-caste practices are superior to their own. This can lead to the perpetuation of caste-based discrimination and exclusion. Sanskritisation has also been criticized for justifying model inequality and exclusion. By promoting the adoption of upper-caste practices, it reinforces the idea that certain castes are superior and others inferior. This can lead to the exclusion of lower-caste communities from social, economic, and political opportunities.

The adoption of upper-caste rites and rituals is another point of criticism for Sanskritisation. Critics argue that these practices are inherently discriminatory and reinforce caste-based hierarchies. For example, upper-caste practices often involve the exclusion of lower-caste individuals from certain religious rituals and ceremonies.

Dowry is another issue associated with Sanskritisation. Dowry is a practice that is often associated with upper-caste  communities in India. The adoption of this practice by lower-caste communities as part of the Sanskritisation process can lead to the perpetuation of dowry-related violence and exploitation.

Caste discrimination is another criticism of Sanskritisation. fBy promoting the adoption of upper-caste practices, it can reinforce caste-based discrimination and exclusion. This can have a negative impact on the social, economic, and political , opportunities available to lower-caste communities.

Finally, Sanskritisation has been criticized for the erosion of Dalit cultural identity. Dalit communities have their own distinct cultural practices and traditions, which are Often suppressed or disregarded in the Sanskritisation process. This can lead to the erasure of Dalit cultural identity and the loss of cultural diversity in India.

In conclusion, Sanskritisation has been subject to several criticisms, including the exaggeration of social mobility, the acceptance of upper-caste as superior and lower-caste as inferior, the justification of model inequality and exclusion, the adoption of upper-caste rites and rituals, dowry, caste discrimination, and the erosion of Dalit cultural identity. While Sanskritisation may have some positive effects, it is important to acknowledge and address these criticisms in order to promote a more equitable and just society.

Question 27.
Explain the impact of globalisation on Indian print media.
Answer:
Globalisation has had a significant impact on the Indian print media industry, particularly in terms of its growth and reach. Here are some of the ways in which globalisation has affected Indian print media:

1. Growth of Indian language newspapers: The increase in the number of literate people who migrated to cities due to globalisation led to a rise in the demand for newspapers in Indian languages. This resulted in the growth of Indian language newspapers, which catered to the needs of local readers.
2. Need for local news: With the rise of globalisation, there was an increasing need for local news coverage. Indian newspapers started to focus more on local news, which was of greater relevance to readers than national or international news.
3. Use of advanced printing technologies: With the introduction of advanced printing technologies, Indian newspapers were able to produce high-quality newspapers at a faster rate and a lower cost. This led to an increase in the number of newspapers, particularly in regional and local editions.
4. Increase in circulation of regional and local editions of papers: As a result of the use of advanced printing technologies, regional and local editions of newspapers became more viable, leading to an increase in their circulation.
5. Satisfying the taste of different sections of people: With the growth of the Indian economy, the tastes and preferences of different sections of people started to evolve. Indian newspapers started to cater to the needs of’ different sections of society, such as the aged and youth, by publishing content that was relevant to them.
6. Use of survey and research to increase circulation: Indian newspapers started to use survey and research techniques to increase circulation. They conducted surveys to understand the preferences of their readers and tailored their content accordingly. This helped to increase the popularity and readership of newspapers.

In conclusion, globalisation has had a significant impact on the Indian print media . industry. It has led to the growth of Indian language newspapers, an increase in local news coverage, the use of advanced printing technologies, an increase in the circulation of regional and local editions of newspapers, the catering to the needs of different sectiQns of society, and the use of survey and research to increase circulation. These changes have helped to make Indian print media more diverse, relevant, and accessible to a wider audience.

Answer any 2 questions from 28 to 30. Each carries 8 scores.

Question 28.
(a) What is Tribal communities?
(b) Classify and explain the tribal communities on the basis of permanent and acquired traits.
Answer:
(a) Tribal communities are often referred to as indigenous peoples or aborigines, indicating their long-standing presence in a particular region. They are known for their unique customs, languages, and beliefs, which are often transmitted orally from one generation to the next. Unlike many mainstream religions, tribal communities typically do not have written texts that serve as the basis for their religious practices. ,
Tribal communities often do not have state or political forms that resemble those of mainstream societies. They typically have simpler forms of governance, which are often based on the principles of consensus and decision-making through community discussion. This is different from the more formal structures of government found in most modern societies.

Tribal communities also often do not have sharp class divisions, as their social and economic systems are typically ba6ed on reciprocity, sharing, and mutual support. They often have a simple way of life, which is closely tied to their environment and natural resources. This can include subsistence farming, hunting, fishing, and gathering.

(b) It is important to note that tribal communities are diverse and complex, and their permanent traits may vary widely depending on the specific community in question. However, some common traits that are often associated with tribal communities include their religion, language; physical characteristics, and ecological habitat.

Religion:
Many tribal communities have unique religious beliefs and practices that are distinct from mainstream religions. They often worship nature and the spirits that are believed to inhabit the natural world. Many tribal religions are animistic, meaning they believe that all things, including animals, plants, and rocks, have a spiritual essence.

Language:
Tribal communities often have their own distinct languages, which are different from the languages spoken by the dominant culture in their region. These languages are often tied to the community’s cultural identity and heritage, and are passed down orally from generation to generation* In many cases, tribal languages are endangered due to the influence of mainstream languages and the loss of younger generations’ interest in learning their ancestral tanguages.

Physical characteristics:
Tribal communities may have physical characteristics that are distinct from the dominant culture in their region. For example, some tribal communities in India, such as the Adivasis, are known for their darker skin and distinct facial features. However, it is important to note that physical characteristics are not a reliable indicator of a person’s tribal identity, as they can vary widely even within the same community.

Ecological habitat:
Tribal communities often have a strong connection to their ecological habitat, which is tied to their traditional ways of life. Many tribal communities have lived in the same region for generations and have developed intricate knowledge of their local ecosystems, which they use to sustain their livelihoods. The loss of their traditional habitats due to, factors such as deforestation, mining, and dam building can have devastating impacts on tribal communities. Tribal communities have acquired certain traits over time that are influenced by their interactions with the mainstream society, such as their modes of living and their extent of incorporation into the Hindu society.

Modes of living:
Tribal fcommunities have traditionally lived in close proximity to nature and have developed unique ways of sustaining themselves through hunting, gathering, fishing, and agriculture. However, with the advent of modernization and industrialization, many tribal communities have been forced to’adapt to new modes of living, such as wage labor, urban migration, and small-scale entre – preneurship. The impact of modernization on tribal communities has been both positive and negative, with some communities benefiting from increased access to education and healthcare, while others experiencing displacement, loss of land and resources, and cultural erosion.

Incorporation into the Hindu society:
The extent to which tribal communities have been incorporated into the Hindu society varies widely. Some tribes, such as the Bhils and Gonds, have been integrated into the Hindu fold through the process of Sanskritization, whereby they adopt Hindu practices and beliefs while retaining some of their own customs and traditions. Other tribes, such as the Jarawas of,the Andaman Islands,.have remained relatively isolated from mainstream society and have resisted assimilation into Hindu culture. In some cases, the Hinduization of tribal communities has led to the loss of their distinct cultural identity, while in others it has resulted in a unique syncretism of Hindu and tribal traditions.

In conclusion, the modes of living and extent of incorporation into the Hindu society are acquired traits of tribal communities that have been shaped by their interactions with mainstream society over time. The impact of these traits oh tribal communities is complex and varied, with some communities experiencing positive outcomes while others are facing challenges such as loss of land, resources, and cultural erosion.

Question 29.
(a) Define Green revolution.
(b) Evaluate the Social consequences of Green revolution in Indian society.
Answer:
(a) The Green Revolution refers to a period of increased agricultural productivity in the mid-20th century, primarily in developing countries. It involved the introduction of high-yielding crop varieties, increased use of fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation,and improved farming practices.

The term “Green Revolution” was coined by William Gaud in 1968 to describe the significant increase in crop production that occurred in India and other parts of the world during this time. The Green Revolution is often credited with increasing food production and alleviating hunger and poverty in many developing countries, although it has also been criticized for its negative environmental and social impacts.

(b) The Green Revolution in India was a period of agricultural transformation that began in the 1960s and was aimed at increasing agricultural productivity through the use of modern agricultural techniques, including the use of high-yielding seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation. The Green Revolution had significant social consequences in Indian society.

One of the positive outcomes of the Green Revolution was the increase in agricultural productivity. The use of high-yielding seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation helped to increase crop yields and improve food security. As a result, India became  selfsufficient in food grains, which was a significant achievement for the country.

However, the benefits of the Green Revolution were not evenly distributed across Indian society. The Green Revolution mainly benefited medium and large agricultural farmers who had the resources to invest in modern agricultural techniques. Small farmers, who could not afford to invest in these techniques, were left behind and continued to struggle with low yields and poverty.

The Green Revolution also led to an increase in,rural inequalities. As medium and large farmers became more productive, they were able to generate more income and accumulate more wealth, while small farmers were left behind. This led to an increase in inequality within rural communities. The Green Revolution also had negative consequences for service castes, who were displaced from their traditional occupations. The new agricultural techniques required fewer laborers, and as a result, many service castes lost their jobs and were forced to migrate to urban areas in search of work.

The Green Revolution also worsened regional inequalities. The benefits of the Green Revolution were concentrated in certain regions of the country, while other regions were left behind. This led to a widening gap between the prosperous regions and the less developed regions. In conclusion, the Green Revolution had both positive and negative social consequences in Indian society. While it led to an increase in agricultural productivity and self-sufficiency in food grains, it also led to an increase in rural inequalities, the displacement of service castes, and worsening of regional inequalities. It is important to recognize these consequences when evaluating the impact of the Green Revolution and to work towards addressing the inequalities that it created.

Question 30.
(a) Define and explain the features of Civil society.
Answer:
(a) Civil society refers to a community of individuals and organizations formed around shared values and interests, and it operates independently of the government or the market. Civil society organizations (CSOs) include non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community-based organizations (CBOs), advocacy groups, professional associations, and faith-based organizations, among others.

The key features of civil society are:
1. Voluntary Associations and Organizations : Civil society is composed of voluntary associations and organizations that are formed by individuals to pursue common interests and goals. These organizations are usually based on cultural, social, or other non-commercial and non-state collective pursuits.

2. Independent from the State: Civil society organizations are independent of the government and not controlled by the state. They operate autonomously and have the freedom to pursue their goals without state interference.

3. Non-profit Motive: Civil society organizations are driven by a sense of public service, rather than by profit motives. They work for the public good and do not seek to make a profit from their activities.

4. Pluralistic: Civil society is pluralistic, diverse, and inclusive. It encompasses a range of organizations and individuals with different values, interests, and ideologies.

5. Participatory: Civil society is participatory and democratic. It encourages active engagement, debate, and dialogue among its members, and promotes civic engagement and participation in decision making processes.

6. Public Accountability: Civil society organizations are accountable to the public and to their members. They operate transparently, with clear rules and procedures, and are subject to public scrutiny and accountability.

(b) The Right to Information Act (RTI), 2005 is a landmark legislation that empowers citizens to access information held by public authorities in India. The RTI Act is a powerful tool that helps citizens to hold
the government accountable, promotes transparency and accountability in governance, and strengthens democracy.

Here are some of the key importance of the Right to Information Act (RTI) 2005:
1. Promotes Transparency and Accountability: The RTI Act promotes transparency and accountability in governance by providing citizens with the right to access information held by public authorities. This helps to reduce corruption, increase accountability, and improve the quality of governance.

2. Empowers Citizens: The RTI Act empowers citizens by giving them the right to seek information from public authorities. This helps to ensure that citizens are informed and engaged in the democratic process, and can hold the government accountable for its actions.

3. Enhances Public Participation: The RTI Act encourages public participation in decision-making processes by providing citizens with the right to access-information and participate in public consultations. This helps to ensure that government policies are informed by the needs and priorities of citizens.

4. Reduces Corruption: The RTI Act helps to reduce corruption by increasing transparency in government operations. Citizens can use the Act to obtain information on government contracts, tenders, and other trans-actions, and to hold public officials accountable for any malpractices.

5. Strengthens Democracy: The RTI Act is a critical tool for strengthening democracy by promoting trans-parency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance. It ensures that citizens are informed and engaged in the democratic process, and helps to build a culture of transparency and accountability in government.

In conclusion, the Right to Information Act 2005 is a crucial legislation that promotes transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance. It is an important tool for promoting good governance and strengthening democracy in India.

Teachers recommend solving Kerala Syllabus Plus Two Sociology Previous Year Question Papers and Answers Pdf March 2024 to improve time management during exams.

Kerala Plus Two Sociology Previous Year Question Paper March 2024

Answer any 9 questions from 1 to 10. Each carries 1 score. (9 × 1 = 9)

Question 1.
Who called upon the media to function as the watch dog of democracy?
(a) Jawaharlal Nehru
(b) Subhash Chandra Bose
(c) B.P. Mandal
(d) Mahatma Gandhi
Answer:
Jawaharlal Nehru

Question 2.
The first modem mass media Institution began with development of _____.
(a) Radio
(b) Television
(c) Printing Press
(d) Telephone
Answer:
Printing Press

Question 3.
______ refers to the mixing of the global culture with the local culture.
(a) Westernisation
(b) Culture of consumption
(c) Glocalisation
(d) Corporate culture
Answer:
Glocahsation

Question 4.
Who among the following emphasised the glory of the Aryan period?
(a) Jyotiba Phule
(b) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
(c) Viresalingam
(d) Vidyasagar
Answer:
BaI GangadharTilak

Question 5.
Jyotiba Phule who started the first school for women at ______ .
(a) Allahabad
(b) Delhi
(c) Pune
(d) Madras
Answer:
Pune

Question 6.
Who is the chief architect of the Constitution of India?
(a) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
(b) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
(c) Dr. S. Radhakrishnan
(d) Sri Lai Bahadur Shgstri
Answer:
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar

Question 7.
The aggressive chauvinism based on religious identity is _____.
(a) Regionalism
(b) Secularism
(c) Communalism
(d) Liguism
Answer:
Communalism

Question 8.
The families that pass on property from mother to daughter is 1
(a) Families of orientation
(b) Families of Procreation
(c) Matrilineal Families
(d) Patrilineal Families
Answer:
Matrilineal FamWes

Question 9.
______ refers to the pre-conceived opinions or attitudes held by members of one group towards another.
(a) Stereotypes
(c) nileoiaioio
Answer:
Prejudices

Question 10.
_____ is the non-state and non-market part of the public domain in which individuals get together voluntarily to create institutions and organisations.
(a) Bureaucracy
(b) Constitution
(c) Government
(d) Civil Society
Answer:
Civil Society

Answer all the questions from 11 to 15 in two or three sentences each. Each carries 2 scores.

Question 11.
Describe the idea ‘Sex ratio’.
Answer:
Sex ratio is the number of females per thousand males in a given area at a specific time. It is a demographic indicator that helps in understanding the balance between males and females within a given population.

Question 12.
Clarify the term ‘Dominant Caste’ with examples.
Answer:
Dominant Caste’ is a term contributed by M.N.Srinivas. A dominant caste is a group that is big innumbers, wealthy in land and money. and holds significant political influence. Examples include Jats of Punjab, Reddys ofAndhra Pradesh, Yadavas of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, and similar influenlial caste groups.

Question 13.
What is meant by Social Exclusion?
(b) Prejudices
(c) Discrimination
(d) Social Exclusion
Answer:
Social exclusion is when certain people or groups are left out from fully taking part in society. It can happen when they are ignored or not given the same opportunities as others in the fields of education, health and social security. Social exclusion is not accidental, rather it is a result of structural features of society.

Question 14.
Explain the idea ‘Scientific Management’.
Answer:
The concept of scientific management was put forward by F.W.Tayor. The main objective of this theory is improving economic efficiency and labour productivity, It is a method where tasks are broken down into smaller, repetitive elements to increase efficiency. This theory is also known as Taylorism

Question 15.
What is meant by ‘Mass Communications’?
Answer:
Mass communication refers to the distribution of information to a large audience through various channels such as television, newspapers, films, radio, and magazines. These mediums are called mass media because they reach a wide and diverse audience.

Answer any 3 questions from 16 to 19. Each carries 4 scores. (3 × 4 = 12)

Question 16.
Explain the meaning of the concept. ‘Commodification’ with suitable examples.
Answer:
Commodification occurs mainly due to the expansion of capitalism around the world. Corn mod Wlcatxn brings previousiy non-traded goods and services into the market economy allowing them to be bought and sold. For example, jobs and skills that people have can become commodities when people start paying for those services. Other examples are bottled water, marriage bureaus, and personality development institutes. According to Marx and critics of capitalism, the process of commodification has negative social effects.

Question 17.
Find out the different aspects in the growth and expansion of mass media and communication.
Answer:
The different aspects of the growth and expansion of mass media and communication are:
(a) Economic, Political, and Cultural Influence: Mass media, like TV and newspapers, change based on money. politics, and culture. For example, ads and news stories can be ifluenced by who s paying for them and what’s happening in the world.

(b) Connection between Mass Media and Society: Mass media and society affect each other. Society shapes what’s in the media, and the media shapes how society thinks and acts.

(c) Formal Structure of Mass Communication: Mass communication, such as TV shows and news, needs a big, organized system to work.

(d) Digital Divide: Not everyone has the same access to digital things like computers and the internet. Some people have more. and some have less. This can make it hard for everyone to get the same information and opportunities.

Question 18.
What is meant by ‘Marketisation’? Discuss.
Answer:
Marketisation refers to the shift towards using market-based methods instead of government rules to address social, political, or economic issues.This includes actions like deregulation (reducing rules), privatization (selling government-owned companies), and allowing more freedom for businesses to operate.

Advocates of marketisation believe it can boost economic growth because they think private businesses are more efficient than government-run ones. For example, instead of the government directly providing a service like healthcare, it might encourage private companies to compete for customers.

This can lead to more choices for people but can also mean that those who can’t afford to pay might not get the same level of service. Marketisation is often seen as a way to promote competition and efficiency, but critics worry it can lead to inequality and prioritize profit over people’s needs.

Question 19.
Home based work is an important part of the economy, substantiate.
Answer:
Home-based work is indeed a significant component of the economy, contributing to various industries. It is when people do their jobs from their homes instead of going to a workplace. Home-based work is really important for the economy because it involves making things like lace, carpets, and bidis right from home. Usually, women and kids do this kind of work. They get materials from someone, make the products, and then that person picks them up and pays them based on how many they make.

For example, in the bidi industry, people in forest villages collect leaves and sell them to contractors. These contractors give materials to home-based workers, mostly women, who make bidis at home. The bidis are then sold to manufacturers, who put their brand labels on them and sell them to shops. During the COVID-19 pandemic, lots of people, especially in the IT sector, worked from home. Even though they were doing different jobs, both types of home-based work involve people doing their jobs from home, showing how important it is for the economy.

Answer any 3 questions from 20 to 23. Each carries 5 scores. (3 × 5 = 15)

Question 20.
List out the differertt dimensions of ‘Globalisation’.
Answer:
Globalisation is the process by which economies, societies, and cultures become increasingly interconnected and
interdependent across national boundaries. It started in 1991 when the government decided to open up the Indian economy to the global market. Before that, the government had lots of rules to protect Indian businesses. But with liberalisation, those rules were removed. Globalisation involves the exchange of goods, services, ideas, and information on a global scale, facilitated by advancements in technology, communication, and transportation.

Factors Driving Globalisation:Transnational Corporations
One big part of globalisation is the role of big companies that operate in many countries. These are called transnational corporations. They make goods or offer services in different parts of the world.

Electronic Economy:
Another thing driving globalisation is the electronic economy. With technology, money can move around the world quickly. This is good for business, but it also brings risks like cyber threats.

Dimensions of Globalisation
(a) Economic Dimension: Economic globalization involves the increasing flow of goods, services, and capital across national borders. It,leads to the creation of a global market where businesses compete and cooperate on an international scale.

(b) Political Dimension: Political globalization involves the creation and strengthening of global organizations like the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and International Monetary Fund. Countries also collaborate on global issues such as climate change, terrorism, and human rights through treaties, agreements, and summits.

(c) Cultural Dimension: Cultures blend and evolve as they interact, leading to the emergence of hybrid identities, cuisines, and art forms. Globalization enables the dissemination of media and entertainment products worldwide, shaping popular culture and tastes.

Question 21.
List out the merits of sociological imagination.
Answer:
The concept of sociological imagination, as introduced byAmerican sociolostC. Wright Mills. offers a powerful tramework forunderstanding the intersection of personal experiences and broader social forces The sociological imagination offers several merits that enhance ow understancng of society and our place within it:

(a) Critical Thriking: It encourages individuale to question the taken-for-granted assumptions about society and examine the underlying structures that shape social phenomena.

(b) Understanding Social Context: It helps individuals understand how personal experiences are influenced by broader social forces such as history ciiture. and social institutiors.

(c) Empathy and Compassion: By recognizing the interconnectedness of personal troubles and public issues, the sociological Imagination fosters empathy and compassion towards others expenences and struggles

(d) Social Change II empowers individuals to recognize their agency in contflbuting to social change by addressing systemic inequalities and advocating for social lustice.

(e) Cultural Awareness: The sociological inagInatxn omotes cultural awareness by flighlighting the diversity of human experiences and challenging elhnocentnsm and social positions, fostering self awareness and reflexivity.

(f) Self-Reflection: It encourages individuale to reflect on their own biases, privileges.

(g) Global Perspective: By emphasizing the interconnectedness of societies and the global nature of social issues, the sociological imagination promotes a global perspective on social phenomena.

(h) Personal Growth: It fosters personal growth and development by expanding individuals’ perspectives, encouraging lifelong learning, and promoting a sense of civic responsibility.

Question 22.
Differentiate between Western and Indian meaning of secularism.
Answer:
In the western context, secularism mainly means secarating religion from government. This was a big change in the western world’s history because before, religion and politics were connected. But then, religion started becoming less importent in public life, and people could choose if they wanted to be religious or not. This happened as modern ideas like science and logic became more popular.

In India, secularism is similar to the western idea, but it also includes other things. In everyday language. ‘secular” is often used tomean the opposite of “communal.” So, when e say someone or something is secular, it means they don’t show favoritism towards any religion. Instead, they treat all religions equally. For example, in India,, the government celebrates holidays for all religions, not just one.

However, there are challenges in India because the government wants to be secular but also protect minority groups. Minonties might need extra help because they might not have the same advantages as the majority group. But when the government gives them special treatment, some people think its just for votes or support. They say it’s not fair to the majority. Others argue that without this special help, the majority might force their beliefs onto minorities.

Question 23.
Match the following:
(a) The First Backward Classes Commission Dayanand Saraswati
(b) The Second Backward Classes Commission Raja Rammohan Roy
(c) The Brahmo Samaj Jyotiba Phule
(d) The Satyashodhak Samaj B.P. Mandal
(e) The Arya Samaj Kaka Kalelkar
Answer:
(a) The First Backward Classes Commission Kaka Kaiekar
(b) The Second Backward Classes Commission- B.P. Manda
(C) The Brahmo Samaj- Raja Ram Mohan Roy
(d) The Satyashodhak Samaj- Jyotiba Phule
(e) The Arya Samaj- Dayanand Saraswati

Answer any 3 questions from 24 to 27. Each carries 6 scores. (3 × 8 = 18)

Question 24.
Explain the features of National Family Planning Programme of India.
Answer:
The National Famdy Planning Programme of India started with the aim to control how fast the population grows and in what way. They wanted to make sure the population grew in a way that’s good for society. At first, the maingoal was to slow down how quickly the population was growing, They did this bytelling people about different ways they could control when they have children, like using birth control methods They also worked to make sure people knew about health issues related to population growth.

This was all happening wound 50 years ago, and since then, India has made a lot of progress in managing its population. But during a time called the National Emergency, the famay plenning program faced a big problem This was in the years 1975to 1976. During this time, normal govemment processes stopped, and the goverrcent could make special rules without needing approval from Parliament.

The government then tried to reduce the population quickly by making many people have sterilization surgeries Sterilization as a medical procedure that stops someone from being able to have children. They made a lot of poor and weak people have this Surgery, and they put a lot of pressure on government workers like teachers and office workers to bring people for sterilization. Many people didn’t like this. and there was a lot of opposition to the progran.

After the National Emergency ended, the family planning program changed.They stopped using forceful methods like making people have sterilization surgeries. Instead. they started focusing on broader goals related to society and demographics. They made new rules in 2000 as part of the National Population Policy, and in 2017, they included most of these goals in the National Health Policy. These policies set new targets for improving health and managing the population.

The history of India’s family planning program shows us that while the government can do a lot to control how fast the population grows, there are many other things that also matter. Things like money, society, and culture also play a big role in how many children people have. So, even though the government tries to manage the population, there are many factors that they can’t control completely.

Question 25.
Describe the important features of the Caste System.
Answer:
The caste system is a social structure in India that has been deeply ingrained in society for centuries. It determines a person’s social status and role based on their birth. Below are the key features of the caste system:

(a) Caste Determined by Birth:
A person’s caste is determined by the caste of their parents.
One cannotchoose their caste; it is assigned at birth
While rare, there are instances where a person may be expelled from their caste.

(b) Strict Rules about Marriage:
Marriage within one’s caste, known as endogamy, is strictly observed.
Members of a caste are expected to marry only within their own caste group.

(c) Rules about Food and Food-Sharing
Caste membership dictates what kinds of food one can eat.
There are strict guidelines about sharing food, often limiting it to members of the same caste.

(d) Hierarchy of Castes:
The caste system is structured into a hierarchy of rank and status.
Each caste occupies a specific place in the hierarchy.
While the hierarchical position of some castes may vary regionally, a hierarchy is present across all regions.

(e) Sub-Divisions within Castes
Castes are further divided into sub-castes.
Sub-castes may also have their own divisions, creating a segmental organization within the caste system.

(f) Occupational Linkage
Traditionally, castes were associated with specific occupations.
Occupations were hereditary, meaning they were passed down from generation to generation within a caste.

The caste system in India is a complex social structure that shapes every aspect of an individual’s life, from birth to occupation. Its defining features include birth-based caste assignment, strict rules about marriage and food, a hierarchical arrangement of castes, subdivision into sub-castes, and linkage with specific occupations. Despite efforts to address its inequalities, the caste system continues to influence social dynamics in India.

Question 26.
(a) Define the term‘Sanskritisation’.
(b) Critically analyse the concept ‘Sanskritisation’.
Answer:
(a) The term sanskritisation was coined by M.N. Srinivas. It may be defined as the process by which a ‘low ’caste or tribe or other group takes over the customs, ritual, beliefs, ideology and style of life of a high and, in particular, a ‘twice-born (dwija) caste’.

(b) The concept of Sanskritisation reflects a multifaceted impact on Indian society. It influences various aspects such as language, literature, ideology, music, dance, and rituals. Sanskritisation operates differently in different regions of India, depending on the dominance of Sanskritised or non-Sanskritic castes.
agricultural practices, and socioeconomic disparities. Impact of colonialism on media

Criticism of Sanskritisation arises on several fronts:

1. Overstates social mobility for lower castes, leading to only positional changes within the caste.
2. Perpetuates the idea that upper-caste practices are superior, reinforcing social inequalities.
3. Justifies inequality and the purity of certain social groups.
4. Doesn’t address structural changes needed to reduce inequality, focusing instead on individual advancement.

Question 27.
Examine the impact of the ‘British Colonialism’ on Indian Society.
Answer:
British colonialism brought modern ideas and institutions to India but also imposed limitations on freedom and self-governance.

Agrarian Structure Changes:
Before British rule, land ownership was with ruling groups, but under colonialism, zamindars gained more control and imposed heavy taxes on peasants.

Implementation of Land Revenue Systems:
British rule introduced different land revenue systems:-the zamindari system, where intermediaries extracted produce or money, and the raiyatwari system, where cultivators paid taxes directly.

Consequences of Land Revenue Systems:
The zamindari system led to exploitation, stagnation, and famines, while the raiyatwari system incentivized cultivators to invest in agriculture, leading to higher productivity and prosperity.

Legacy of Colonialism:
The impact of British land revenue administration and exploitation shaped the agrarian landscape of contemporary India, influencing land ownership patterns.

1. Indian nationalism grew in response to British colonialism.
2. The nationalist press played a crucial role in nurturing anti-colonial sentiment.
3. The colonial government imposed censorship on the nationalist press.
4. Newspapers like Kesari, Mathrubhumi, and Amrita Bazar Patrika faced consequences but continued advocating for independence.
5. Mass media under British rule included newspapers, magazines, films, and radio.
6. Radio was state-owned, limiting the expression of national views.
7. Newspapers and films were monitored by the British government.
8. Despite limited circulation, print media influenced public opinion through word of mouth.
9. The media expressed a range of opinions about India’s independence.

Answer any 2 questions from 28 to 30. Each carries 8 scores. (2 × 8 = 16)

Question 28.
(a) What are the ideals of Panchayati Raj?
(b) Briefly explain the powers and responsibilities of Panchayats.
Answer:
(a) The ideals of Panchayati Raj revolve around the concept of grassroots democracy and decentralized governance at the village level. It aims to empower local communities by ensuring democratic participation and decisionmaking.

1. Historically, village governance was influenced by caste panchayats,often representing dominant groups with conservative views.
2. Mahatma Gandhi advocated for local self-government, envisioning each village as a self-sufficient unit practicing gram swarajya.
3. The 73rd Constitutional Amendment in 1992 granted constitutional status to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).
4. This mandated the election of local self¬government bodies every five years, giving them control over local resources.
5. The 73rd and 74th amendments reserved one-third of seats for women in all elected offices of local bodies, enhancing women’s participation in decision¬making.
6. These reforms signify a commitment to grassroots democracy, decentralization, and inclusive governance in India.

(b) According to the Constitution, Panchayats should be given powers and authority to function as institutions of self government.

1. The following powers and responsibilities were delegated the Panchayats:
2. to prepare plans and schemes for economic development.
3. to promote schemes that will enhance social justice.
4. to levy, collect and appropriate taxes, duties, tolls and fees.
5. help in the devolution of governmental responsibilities, especially that of finances to local authorities.

1. Social welfare responsibilities of the Panchayats include the maintenance of burning and burial grounds.

2. Recording statistics of births and deaths, establishment of child welfare and maternity centres, control of cattle pounds, propagation of family planning and promotion of agricultural activities.

3. The development activities include the construction of roads, public buildings, wells, tanks and schools. They also promote small cottage industries and take care of minor irrigation works.

Question 29.
(a) What is meant by ‘Green Revolution’?
(b) Critically analyse the Social Consequences of the Green Revolution.
Answer:
(a) The Green Revolution, a government initiative largely funded by international agencies, aimed to modernize agriculture in India by providing high-yielding crop varieties, along with pesticides, fertilizers, and other inputs, to farmers. Its primary objective was to rapidly increase agricultural productivity to meet the growing demand for food. Focused mainly on regions with assured irrigation, such as Punjab, western U.P, coastal Andhra Pradesh, and parts of Tamil Nadu, the Green Revolution led to significant improvements in crop yields, making India self-sufficient in foodgrain production. Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, a prominent agricultural scientist, played a crucial role in championing the development and implementation of high-yielding crop varieties, particularly wheat and rice, contributing to the success of the Green Revolution.

(b) The impacts of the Green Revolution in India were multifaceted. It led to rapid social and economic transformations in certain areas, boosting agricultural productivity and making the country self-sufficient in foodgrain production. However, the benefits were unevenly distributed, primarily favoring medium and large-scale farmers while exacerbating inequalities in – rural society.

The introduction of new technology and commercialization of agriculture further marginalized small and marginal farmers, leading to increased rural-urban migration. Additionally, the Green Revolution widened regional inequalities and exacerbated exploitative labor relations in feudal agrarian structures. While the initiative initially increased employment and wages for agricultural workers, it also led to economic insecurity and a loss of traditional farming knowledge. The second phase of the Green Revolution in the 1980s saw similar trends, with increased commercialization and market dependence, exacerbating livelihood insecurity, especially in dry and semi-arid regions. Calls for a return to traditional, organic farming methods have emerged in response to the negative environmental and social impacts of modern agricultural practices.

The main issues can be concluded as follows.

1. Widening inequalities, favoring medium and large-scale farmers
2. Marginalization of small and marginal farmers, leading to increased ruralurban migration
3. Exacerbation of regional inequalities and exploitative labor relations
4. Initial increase in employment and wages for agricultural workers, followed by economic insecurity
5. Loss of traditional farming knowledge and calls for a return to organic methods.

Question 30.
What are the features of a ‘Social Movement’? Explain the important theories on Social Movements.
Answer:
Social movements are when groups of people come together to push for change in society. They work together in an organized way, sharing the same goals and ideas. These movements have tackled lots of different problems throughout history, like fighting for the rights of people who are treated unfairly or challenging old-fashioned ways of doing things. Even though they often face challenges, social movements are really important for making society better and fairer for everyone.

Here are few examples of different types of social movements which brought notable changes in society.

1. Campaigns for women’s suffrage and gender equality
2. Civil rights movements advocating for racial equality
3. LGBTQ+ rights movements fighting for equal rights and recognition
4. Environmental movements addressing climate change and conservation
5. Anti-war movements opposing military intervention and advocating for peace
6. Labor movements fighting for workers’ rights and fair wages.

Sociologists and thinkers conducted various studies about the social movements and formed certain theories in connection to them. Let’s examine some major theories here.

Relative Deprivation Theory:
Relative Deprivation Theory posits that feelings of discontent and frustration arise not solely from objective deprivation or absolute poverty, but from a perceived discrepancy between one’s expectations or aspirations and one’s actual circumstances relative to others. According to this theory, individuals or groups compare their situation with that of others and feel deprived or disadvantaged when they perceive themselves as unfairly disadvantaged or lacking in comparison. Relative deprivation can fuel social movements, protests, or collective action as individuals or groups mobilize to address perceived injustices or inequalities and strive for greater equality or recognition.

This theory highlights the subjective nature of deprivation and underscores the importance of social comparisons and perceived relative status in shaping feelings of discontent and collective action. Mancus Olson’s Theory Mancur Olsen’s theory, known as the Collective Action Theory, emphasizes the, challenges and dynamics of group behavior and collective action. Olsen argues that individuals face incentives to free-ride, meaning they benefit from the collective efforts of others without contributing themselves. This results in the “logic of collective action,” where individuals have little incentive to participate in collective action

unless they believe their contribution will make a difference or they face selective incentives that motivate them to participate. Olsen’s theory highlights the importance of overcoming coordination problem sand providing selective incentives, such as material rewards or social benefits, to mobilize individuals and overcome the collective action problem. Additionally, he emphasizes the role of group size and organization in facilitating or hindering collective action efforts.

Resource Mobilisation Theory:
Resource Mobilization Theory posits that successful social movements require the effective mobilization of resources, including financial, organizational, and human resources, to achieve their goals. Developed in response to earlier’theories focusing solely on grievances or structural factors, Resource Mobilization Theory emphasizes the strategic use of resources by movement actors to maximize their impact and effectiveness.

According to this theory, social movements must build networks, establish organizations. and mobilize support to acquire and deploy resources effectively. Furthermore, Resource Mobilization Theory highlights the role of external factors, such as political opportunities and Institutional support, in shaping the mobilization and allocation of resources for social movements.

Teachers recommend solving Kerala Syllabus Plus Two History Previous Year Question Papers and Answers Pdf Board Model Paper 2020 to improve time management during exams.

Kerala Plus Two History Board Model Paper 2020 with Answers

Answer all question from 1 to 4. (4 × 1 = 4)

Question 1.
Choose the correct answer from the given alternatives:
a) “Travels in the Mughal Empire” was written by:
i) Harihara aoslano
ii) Bukka 6013,90
iii) Adbur Razzaq
iv) Francois Bernier
Answer:
a) Francois Bernier

b) The guardian deity of Vijayanagar empire was oilssaDmroa
i) Vithala oflioraej
ii) Pampadevi ajomioeiiail
iii) Virupaksha
iv) Rama
Answer:
iii) Virupaksha

c) The officer who discovered the ruins at Hampi:
i) Colin Mackenzie
ii) Thomas Roe erooaoo” eos
iii) John Wilkins 6933918 oildsteelndatf
iv) James stuart assuslomf
Answer:
i) Colin Mackenzie

d) Who built the town Nagalpuram?
i) Krishnadeva Raya
ii) Ramaraya
iii) Kampil Devaraya
iv) Vasudeva 0100361301
Answer:
d) Krishnadeva Raya

Question 2.
Match column ‘A’ with appropriates from coloumn B.

A	B
Khalsa Panth	Lingayat
Vachanam	Alvars
Nglayira Divya Prabandham	Religious tax
Jizya	Guru Gobind Singh

Answer:

A	B
Khalsa Panth	Guw Gobind Singh
Vachanam	Lingayat
Nglayira Divya Prabandham	Jvars
Jizya	Religious tax

Question 3.
Arrange the following in chronological order:
Answer:

1. Kunchiya Revolt – 1812
2. Malabar Rebellion – 1921
3. Vaikom Satyagraha – 1924 – 25
4. Temble Entry Proclamation – 1936

Question 4.
Find the relation between the two parrts of item ‘a’ and fill in the blanks of item ‘b’ accordingly”
i) a) Head of the
Panchayat : Muqaddam

b) Accountant of
Panchayat : _____
Answer:
Patwari

ii) a) Supervisor of the
fiscal system : Diwan

b) Revenue Collector : ______
Answer:
Amil – guzar

iii) a) Ottoman : Turkey
b) Safavid : ______
Answer:
Iran

iv) a) Akbarnama : Abdul Fazl
b) Badshanama : ______
Answer:
Abdul Hamid Lahori

Question 5.
Identify the following places related to the revolt of 1857 and mark them on the outline map of Ancient India provided. (4 x 1 = 4)
a) The place which was described as the ‘Nursery of Bengal Army’.
b) The Place where Rani Lakshmi Bai led the revolt of 1857.
c) The place where Kunwar Singh led Revolt of 1857.
d) The place where Nana Sahib led the revolt of 1857.
Answer:
a) Awadh
b) Jhansi
c) Arrah
d) Kanpur

Answer all the questions from 6 to 12. Each carries 2 scores. (7 × 2 = 14)

Question 6.
Write a note on the teachings of Buddha.
Answer:
The basis of Buddhism is Four Arya (Noble) Truths with Ashtangamarga. The 4 Noble Truths Buddha taught are:
a) The world is a sorrowful place.
b) Desires are the cause of sorrow.
c) If we deny our desires, we can avoid sorrow.
d) By following the Ashtanga Marga, you can overcome sorrow. The ashtanga margas are: right word, right deed, right life, right efforts, right memory, right view, right decision and right meditation.

Question 7.
Describe the features of Mihajanapadas.
Answer:
In most Janapadas, it was monarchy. In some Mahajanapadas, there was rule by a group of people representatives. Such groups with ruling powers were ‘sanghas’ or ‘ganas’. In the gana-ruled places, the administration was done by a person chosen by the people’s representatives or by a group. They were called by the common name kings. Mahavira and Buddha belonged to such gana-nations. In some countries the entire land was owned by the king (combined ownership). Some of these countries existed for more than a thousand years. Each Mahajanapada had a capital of its own. The capital was made safe by building fortresses around it. Mahajanapadas maintained armies and alsb a number of officials.

Question 8.
Define Sulh-i-kul
Answer:
‘Sulh-i-kul’ means complete peace. The Chronicles point out that in the Mughal Empire there were Hindus, Jains, Zorashtrians, Buddhists, Muslimsand Christians. The Emperor, Akbar, was a tolerant person and he extolled the virtues of unity, peace and stability. He worked with all communities to ensure peace and justice. Thus Sulh-i-kul was an important feature of Akbar’s rule.

1. Abul Fazl points out that it was the base of an ^ enlightened rule.
2.  It helped all the religious groups to have their faith and modes of worship. But it did not allow the different groups to fight or jeopardise the security of the country.
3. Akbar made special efforts to put ‘Sulh-i-kul’ into practice. It was executed through policy.
4. Akbar stopped taking religious taxes. Non- Muslims had to pay Jizya. All these were stopped by Akbar as they were religious taxes.

Question 9.
Write any two features of Kitab
Answer:
AI-Biruni’sKitab-ul-Hind, written in Arabic, issimple and lucid. It is a voluminous text, divided into 80 chapters on subjects such as religion, philosophy, festivals, astronomy, alchemy, manners and customs, social life, weights and measures, iconography, laws and metrology. He adopted a distinctive structure in each chapter. He began the chapter with a question. Then a description was made on the basis of Sanskrit tradition. The chapter was concluded with a comparison with other cultures. Some present day scholars argued that this almost geometric structure, remarkable for its precision and predictability. It reflects his mathematical orientation.

Question 10.
Write a short note on Akbarnama.
Answer:
Abul Fazl was the writer of Akbamama. Akbar Nama is divided into three books of which the first two are chronicles. The third book is Ain- i-Akbari. The first two volumes contain the history of mankind from Adam to one celestial cycle of Akbar’s life. The second volume closes in the forty-sixth regnal years of Akbar. The objective of Akbar Nama was to provide a detailed account of Akbar’s regin. At the same time it gives a detailed picture of all aspects of Akbar’s empire – geographic, social, administrative and cultural without reference to chronology.

Question 11.
Write a short noteon Dharma Sastras.
Answer:
With the coming of the new towns and cities, social life became more complex. Then people started questioning the old faiths and rituals. To face these challenges, the Brahmins formulated a code of conduct. These code of conduct were to be rigidly observed by the common people, but only less rigidly by Brahmins. From 500 BC, these rules were published as Sanskrit books. They were known as Dharmasutras and Dharmasastras.

Question 12.
Distinguish betweenAlwars and Nayanars.
Answer:
Some of the early Bhakti Movement were led by the Alvars and Nayanars. Alvars-devotaes of vishnu, Nayana’s – devotes of Shiva. Alvars and Nayanars initiated a movement of protest against the caste system and the dominance of Brahmins. The tradition of the Alvars and Nayanars were considered important. Many claimed that their composition were an important on the vedas. For exam pie, one of the major anthologies of composition by the Alvars, the Nalayira Divya Prabandam, was known as Tamil Veda. This text was considered as significant as four vedas in Sanskrit.

Answer all three questions from 13 to 15. Each carries 3 scores. (3 × 3 = 9)

Question 13.
Analyse the features of ‘Amaranayaka’ system of the Vijayanagar empire.
Answer:
In Vijayanagara Empire there was the system of “Amara Nayaka”. This system had many of the features of the “Iqta system’ of the Delhi Sultans. Amara Nayakas were military commanders. Vijayanagara kings gave them some regions to govern. These regions were called ‘Amara’.

The governing of these regions was done by the Amaranayaks. They collected taxes of different kinds from the farriers, traders, artisans and big merchants. A big portion of the income was used for their personal needs. The other part was spent in maintaining horses and elephants. A small portion was also spent on maintaining temples and irrigation. Amaranayakas rendered military help to the kings of Vijayanagara. It was by using this military might that the kings brought the Southern Peninsula under their control.

Amaranayakas were to give the king tribute every year. They also had to visit the king and give him gifts to show their loyalty to him. To show that the king had power over them, he used to transfer amaranayakas to different places. Even then by the 17th century the amaranayakas became powerful and some of them started challenging the authority of the king. Some even established independent states. This caused the slow disintegration of Vijayanagara.

Question 14.
Describe the efforts made by Shajehan Begum and Sultan Jehan Begum to preserve Sanchi Stupa.
Answer:
Shajahan Begum and her successor Sultan Jahan Begum protected the Stupa. They spent a lot of money in the maintenance of this ancient monument. , Sultan Jahan Begum took great interest in the matters related to Sanchi. She donated money to build a museum and a guest house there. It was by staying in this guest house, John Marshal wrote volumes about Sanchi. To publish the writings of John Marshal also, Jahan Begum sanctioned money. John marshal dedicated his books to Sultan Jahan Begum. The protection and maintenance of the Sanchi ‘ monuments were possible because of the discretion and foresight of the rulers of Bhopal.

Question 15.
Who were Jotedars? How did they become more powerful in the rural areas of Bengal?
Answer:
Jotedars were a group of rich peasants who consolidated their position in the villages.
By the start of the 19th century, jotedars became owners of extensive lands. Thousands of acres of land were occupied by them. Local trade, giving money on interest, etc. were controlled by jotedars. Thus they were able to exercise control over the poor village peasants. In the lands of jotedars, share cropping was the practice. Those who did the cultivation in these lands were called ‘adhiyar’. Jotedars often took more than half of the total harvest as their share.

Answer any 4 questions from 16 to 20. Each carries 4 scores. (4 × 4 = 16)

Question 16.
Analyse the resistance movements of Pazhassi Raja and Paliathachan.
Answer:
The Pazhassi Revolt was one of the most significant revolts in South India against the British. There were two stages in the Pazhassi Revolt. The 1st stage is from 1793 to 1797. Pazhassi started his revolt by preventing the tax collection for the British. Pazhasi’s army consisted of Muslim and Nair farmers and members of Kurichi tribe. Pazhassi requested the help of Mysore to drive away the British from Wayanad. The British army was continuously defeated and in 1797, St withdrew from Wayanad, making an agreement with Pazhassi. With this the first stage ended.

The 2nd stage of the Revolt started in 1800. The reason was the move of the British to take over Wayanad. With the help of the Kurichis and Kurumbars in his army, Pazhassi withstood the attacks. Finally Wellesley defeated Pazhassi in a bitter battle. Pazhassi still continued his resistance. But an army under Thomas Harvey Bebar, a subcollector of Thalassery, defeated Pazhassi on 30 November 1805.ln the battle, Pazhassi lost his life.

Paliathacchanwasthe Prime Minister of Kochi. He had enmity with Macaulay. Veluthampi Dalawa made a secret agreement with Paliathacchan. In 1808 the combined armies of Travancore and Kochi attacked the residence of Macaulay in Kochi. The Resident escaped in a British ship. The British hit back. They attacked Kochi. Paliathacchan withdrew from the revolt by signing a treaty with the British.

Question 17.
Explain the features of Swarupams.
Answer:
Swaroopam was a political centre of the 12th century Kerala. It maintained a small army. They were called Ayirathavar, Pathinayirathavar, Padamalanayarand so on. Swaroopams had household deities. There was something called ‘ariyittuvazhcha’. The eldest member of the family became the Moopan with elaborate rituals. The elevation to this status is called ariyittuvazhcha. It was also called ‘Hiranyagarbham’. During this time the rulers took some fancy titles. Swaroopams had their own land. Their main income was from land. They also had political power over areas under their jurisdiction.

Question 18.
Explain the Dhamma Policy of Ashoka.
Answer:
Asoka tried to hold his empire together by propagating dhamma. Its Principles were simple and virtually universally applicable. Respect towards elders, generosity towards Brahmanas and those who renounced wordly life, treating slavesand servants kindly, and respect for religions and traditions other than one’s own were its main principles Special. Officers, known as the dhamma mahamatta, were appointed to spread the message of dhamma.

Question 19.
The Revolt of 1857 was particularly widespread in Awadh. Analyse the reason.
Answer:
The taking over of Awadh by the British made the local kings, talukdars, peasants and sepoys very unhappy and angry. By taking over Awadh, not only the Nawab but also many talukdars lost their jobs. The talukdars had many estates and fortresses in the villages of Awadh. They had been in control of these lands for generations. They had much power in the villages. They also used to keep small army units with them. Some even had armies numbering up to 12,000 soldiers. Even the small ones had 200 footmen.

The British refused to accept the autonomy and authority of the talukdars. Soon after they took over . Awadh, they dispersed the armies of the talukdars and destroyed their fortresses. As talukdars lost their positions, their social status was lost. The relations between them and the farmers were ruined. They helped peasants in their needs. They also gave peasants loans during festivals. Peasants also showed loyalty to talukdars. But the coming of the British spoiled all these. The taking over of Awadh by the British made the sepoys also unhappy. Many o f them were from Awadh itself. They did noMike the idea of their birthplace getting into the hands of the British.

Question 20.
Analyse the elements to the considered by historians while handling texts like Mahabharata.
Answer:
When talking about books, historians take certain aspects into consideration.

1. Their language, whether it is in Pali, Prakrit, Tamil or Sanskrit.
2. Their genre – Are they mantras or stories?
3. Their authors, their viewpoints, the ideas that prompted them to write the book.
4. Their intended readers. Writers write books keeping in view the interests of their intended readers.
5. Their time and place of publication.

Only after looking into these things, the historians assess the contents of the books and their historical importance.

Answer any 1 of the questions from 21 and 22, which carries 5 score. (1 × 5 = 5)

Question 21.
‘Partition is the culmunation point of a long history.’ Based on the statement explain the causes and events that led to the partition of the country.
Answer:
Some scholars say that the Partition was the result of the communal politics that began in India in the beginning of the 20th century. It was the separate constituencies allowed to the Muslims that caused such divisive thinking. Minto-Morley Reforms of 1909 allowed these separate constituencies. The Montague-Chelmsford Reforms expanded the concept still further. Separate constituencies helped the Muslims to elect their own representiatives. This was exploited by the politicians.

They started promoting religious thinking. Each politician, whether Hindu or Muslim, did some favours to the members of his community and thus gained acceptance among them. Their only purpose as to gain power by playing the religious card. Religious concepts began to influence politics. Enmity between religious groups grew.
Some incidents that took place in the first decades of the 20th century also increased the tension between the two communities. In the 1920s and 30s, this enmity grew.

1. Singing in front of the mosques, Save-the-Cow Movement, and the Suddhi Movement by Arya Samaj which tried to bring back coverts into other religion’s including Islam, made the Muslims unhappy.
2. The growth of some Islamic Organizations like Tabligh (Islamic Preaching) enraged Hindus.
3. Fanatics in both groups tried to organize their members with greater unity and solidarity. Opposing groups often clashed. This caused communal riots in many parts of the country.

First elections to the provincial Assemblies were conducted in 1937. Only between 10 to 12% of the population had voting rights. The Congress won big victories. In 5 provinces, it had simple majority. In two provinces it had the highest number of seats. Thus Congress was able to form ministries in 7 out of 11 provinces. In two provinces there was coalition government.

1. In the Muslim Constituencies, the performance of the Congress was bad.
2. The performance of the Muslim League was very bad. It got only a small portion of the Muslim votes polled.

In the North-West Frontier Province, it did not get even a single seat. In Punjab there were 84 Reservation seats. The League got only 2 out of these. In Sindh there were 33 Reservation seats. The League got 3. Provincial elections were again held in 1946. The League’s success in the election was spectacular. The cabinet mission visited India and submitted its report. There is a disagreement between the league and the congress overthis.

Partition soon became inevitable. Most Congress leaders were against it. But they had to finally agree to it They knew that although it was undesirable it was inevitable. There were only two people who vehemently opposed partition – Gandhi and Frontier Gandhi (Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan).

Question 22.
Describe the life style of the Paharias and their relations with outsiders.
Answer:
In official documents, people who inhabited the highlands are called pahariyas. The journal of Buchanan gives some interesting accounts of the Pahariyas.

1. Pahariyas lived on the Rajmahal hills. For their livelihood they depended on the forest. They got their food from the forest. They also did shifting cultivation. They cleared small tracts in the forest and dug the ground with their hoes, planting pulses and com. After using the tracts for some time they left them fallow to restore their fertility and moved to another place.

2. For food, the Pahariyas collected a kind of flowers called ‘mahua’ from forests. They also collected cocoons of silkworms and resin for sale. They collected wood to make charcoal. They grazed ’ their animals in the grasslands of the forests. Thus they did many things connected with the forest.

3. They lived in huts made among tamarind groves. They rested in the shade of trees. They considered the entire area their own. Their being and life depended on these forests.

Answer any 2 questions from 23 to 26. Each carries 8 scores. (2 × 8 = 16)

Question 23.
The most unique features of Harappan civilization was the development of urban centres. Based on this statement examine the main features of the town planning of Mohenjadaro.
Areas to be considered
• The Citadel
• Great Bath
• Domestic Architecture
• Drainage System
Answer:
The greatest site of Harappan civilization is Mohenjo Daro. This was discovered after Harappa. It is from Mohenjo Daro that evidences of town planning, dwellings and seals of the Harappan civilization were discovered. This bigcity is situated in the Larkana District of Sindh on the shore of River Sindhu. The meaning of Mohenjo Daro is The Mound of the Dead”. The excavations done here brought to light the rem ains of a well planned city. This city was divided into two parts-The Citadel and the Lower Town.

The Citadel: Citadel is a small manmade plafform. It is located on the western side of the city. Citadel is the highest part of the city. There are t reasons for the unusual height of the citadel. First of all it is built on a higher ground. Secondly its buildings are constructed on the bricks made of earth. The citadel is protected by building walls around it. There are many big buildings in the citadel. They have been used vanous special purposes. The main buildings of the citadel are The Warehouse, and the Great Bath.

The Great Bath: The most important structure in the citadel of Mohenjo Daro is the Great Bath. It is in rectangular shape. The pond is in the yard which is surrounded by corridors on all four sides. To get into the pond there are steps on the northern and southern sides. The bottom of the pond is made watertight using bi1icks and lime paste. This prevents the water from seeping down and making the pond dry. There are rooms on 3 sides of the pond. There was a big well in one of the rooms.

The water for the pond was brought from this well. There were provisions for filling the pond with water and to make the dirty water flow out into drains. Historians think that the Great Bath had a religious
importance. They think that this Great Bath was used for ritual baths. The Qreat Bath shows the importance the Harappans gave to cleanliness. It also shows their engineering and technical skills.

Domestic Architecture: The Lower Town was just below the citada. This was also protected by walls. People lived here. Here we can see good examples of domestic architecture. The houses were made of bricks. The houses were ordered in the Grid System. The houses were built along both sides of the road, with adequate space between houses. The doors and windows were opened to face the central yard. It is believed that the yard was used for cooking and also weaving.

The houses did not have doors and windows that faced the street. All the houses had bathrooms. They were paved with bricks. The drainage system was excellent Houses were different in size. There were single room and double room houses. There wpre also houses with more than two storeys. To get to the top stones there were staircases.Big houses had wells. It was dug in a room in such a way that even outsiders could draw waterfrom it. Experts estimate that Mohenjo Daro had some 700 wells. Houses were built on raised platforms. The settlements were well planned. The bricks were made to certain specifications. The same kind of bricks was used in most constructions.

The drainage system: The drainage system In the Harappan cities was excellent. The drain of each house was linked to the drainage canal outside. The drainage canals were covered with bricks or sheets of rock. In some places they covered the drainage canals with limestone slabs. It was possible to clean the canals by removing the top coverings. There were manholes in the public drainage. It is believed that the drainage was madefirslandthencamethehouses. Thedrainage system shows the engineering skill of the Harappan people. It shows they had a town administration. It aise shows how much importance they gave to hygiene and health. The drainage system was not limited to big cities. Even the settlements in places like Lothal had drainages.

Question 24.
Explain the popular struggles led by Gandhiji against the British. Areas to be considered.
• Non-co-operation Movement
• Salt Satyagraha
• Quit I ndia Movement
Answer:
In January 1915, Gandhiji returned to his homeland. His first major public appearance was at the opening of the Banaras Hindu University. In 1916, Gandhiji was approached by a peasants . from Champaran, who told him about the harsh treat: mentof peasants by British indgo planters. Gandhiji was to spend much of 1917 in Champaran, seeking to obtain for the peasants had the freedom to cultivate the crops of their choice. In 1918, he was involved in two campaigns in his home state of Gujarat.

First, he intervened the labour dispute in Ahmedabad demanding better working conditions for the textile mill workers. Then he joined the peasants in Kheda in asking the state for the remission of taxes following the failure of harvest. During the great war of 1914-18 the British had insti-tuted censorship of the press and permitted detention without trial. It had been passed on the recom-mendation of a committee chaired by Sir Sidney Rowlett. So it is known as Rowlatt Act. Gandhiji called for a country wide campaign against the Rowlatt Act. The protest were particularly intense in the Punjab.

Gandhiji proceeded to the Punjab. But on the way he was detained. The situation in the province grew progressively more tense, reaching a bloody climax in Amritsar in April 1919. A British brigadier ordered his troops to open fire on a nationalist meeting. More than four hundred people were killed. This incident is known as the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. To broaden the straggle Gandhiji had joined hands with the Khilafat movement. It started to restore the caliphate a symbol of pan Islamism. The Non-Cooperation Movement was the first strong moment of Gandhi against the British. It was part of Gandhi’s concept of non-violence.

The Non-Cooperation Movement had three aims:

1. Find a solution to the Punjab problem.
2. Solve the Khilafat issue.
3. Gain swaraj.

The exhortations of Gandhiji had great effect. Students boycotted government institutions. Thousands of workers in cities and towns went on strike. Official records show that in 1921 there were 396 strikes involving 6 lakh workers. 7 lakh working days were lost. In the Non-Cooperation Movement, women and farmers took active part.

The Chauri-Chaura incident was big jolt to the Movement. Gandhi was forced to stop the Movement. Violence in Chauri-Chaura occurred when police fired at a procession of farmers. The enraged farmers attacked the Chauri-Chaura police station and burnt it. 22 policemen were killed. This shocked Gandhiji. He realized that people were not yet ready to fight using non-violence. On 22 February 1922, he decided to withdraw the Non-Cooperation Movement. He said that no provocation would justify the killing of the 22 policemen.

Gandhi planned a new way of struggle against the British. This was the Civil Disobedience Movement. He said he would start it by breaking the Salt Law. Salt Law was one of the laws that Indians hated most. Gandhi’s move to breach the salt law was a strategic one. He knew by this he could make the people fight against the government. On 12 March 1930, Gandhiji began walking from his ashram at Sabarmati towards ocean. He reached the destination three weeks later, making fistful of salt as he did and there making himself a criminal in the eyes of the law. Meanwhile, parallel salt marches were conducted in other parts of India.

Across large parts of India peasants breached the hated colonial forest laws. In some towns, factory workers went on strike shile lawyers boycotted British courts and students refuse to attend government run-education institutions. Nearly 6000 Indians in¬cluding Gandhiji were arrested. The British government continued a series of Round Table Conferences in London. The first Round Table Conference was held in 1930. Gandhiji or any prominent Congress leaders did not participate in the conference. Gandhiji was released from jail in 1931 and the following month had several meetings with the victory. This led to the Gandhi Irwin Pact, by the terms of which disobedience movements.

After the failure of Cripps Mission, Gandhiji decided to start his third phase of struggle against British rule. This is known as Quit India Movement. It started in August 1942. The immediate cause of this Move¬ment was the failure of the Cripps Mission. Gandhi demanded that the British should leave India peace¬fully and in a timely manner. Congress accepted that idea. On 8 August 1942, Congress met at Bombay and passed a resolution asking the British to quit India. The resolution made it clear that to make the British go away, a struggle would be organized un¬der Gandhi. This struggle is known as Quit India Movement. Gandhi asked the people to come into the open with the slogan ‘Do or Die’.

a) It was a popular movement. Thousands of ordi nary people came with their support. Youths were ready to quit colleges and go to jail.
b) It showed the willingness of the people to suffer for freedom and to go to any extent to achieve freedom.
c) It made the British realize that their days were numbered. It forced them to negotiate the transfer of power.
d) It brought world’s attention to the Indian struggle forfreedom.

Question 25.
Explain the features of the Imperial household and officials of the Mughal Period.
Answer:

The Mughal nobility came from different backgrounds. Members were chosen from different religious and Class and tribal groups. There were Mughals, Afghans, Turks, Persians, Indian Muslims and Rajputs in this assembly.
Iranians gaind high offices under Jahangir his politi cally influential queen, Nurjahan, was an Iranian. Aurangzeb appointed Rajputs to high position. All holders of government offices held a rank corn pnsing two numerical designations. Zat whh was an indicator of position in the imperial hierarchy and the salary of the official and Sawar which indicated the number of horsemen he was required to maintain in service.

The nobles participated in military campaigns with their armies and also served as office of the empire in the provinces. For members of the nobility, Imperial service was a way of acquiring power, wealth and highest possible reputation. If a person desred to join the imperial service, he should submit a petition to the noble. It was the noble who presented the ‘Tajwiz’ to the emperor. If the applicant was found suitable a manab was granted to him. The Mir bakshi presented all candidates for appointment or promotion. There were two other important ministers at the centre: the Diwan- i-ala and Sadar-us-Sudar. The three inisters occasionally came together as an advisory body but were independent of each other.

Nobles stationed at the court were known as Tainat – I – rakab. They were reserved force to be deputed to a province or military campaign. It was their duty to guard the emperor and his household round the dock. The Mughal rulers gave important consideration for maintaining records. All royal orders were presented in the royal court. All applications and documents were preserved by a group of palace scribes. These scribes or writers were called ‘waqianavis’. They worked under the ‘mir bakshi’. The agents of the aris tocrats and the regional authorities recorded all the processes of the royal court under the heading “News from the Exalted Courr or Akbarat.

The times and dates of the Royal Court have been recorded here. ‘Akbarat’ has all the details regarding the attendance in the Court, the assigning of jobs and titles, the diplomatic missions, the gifts received and even the enquiries the Emperor made about the health of the off icials. This information is quite valuable in the writing the life histories and activities of rulers and aris tocrats.

The Mughal postal system helped in exchanging communication. It was through the royal post that news and official documents were sent all over the country. There were runners to carry the post and to pass information to the Emperor quickly. It is reported that there were 4000 runners in the country. They carried the papers in the form of scrolls carried in bamboo boxes. They rked all the time with hardly any rest. This postal system helped the king to get information from faraway places in record time. The Mughal Empire was divided into many Provinces.

They were called subas. Provincial Administration was a miniature model of the Central administration. In the Provinces also there were Ministers and officials to help them. The head of the provincial administration was called Subadar (Provincial Governor). He was appointed by the emperor. The Subadar had to report directly to the emperor.

1. Each province was divided into districts, called sarkars. They were under officials called faujdars (commandants). There were plenty of footmen and gun-carrying soldiers in every district.
2. The sarkars were divided into parganas (sub-districts). The officials in charge of parganas were known as qanungo, chaudhuri, and quazi. Qanungo kept the revenue records. Choudhari collected the revenues. Qazi handled judicial matters.
3. Parganas were divided into villages. They were administered by gramasabhas.

The household of the rulers was called harem. Harem is a Persian word meaning a holy place. It included the ruler’s wives, concubines, close and distant relatives including mother, step-mothers, foster¬mothers, sisters, daughters, daughters-in-law, aunts, children, maid servants and slaves.

The Mughal rulers had two types of wives – begams – and aghas. Begams came from royal families. They came with a lot of dowry (mahar) by way of things, ornaments and money. They received preferential treatment in their husband’s household. They were given greater consideration by their husbands. The oth€r wives (aghas) were not from royal families.

The aghacha occupied the lowest position, in the hierarchy of females. They all received monthly allowances in cash. The aga and the aghacha could rise to the position of a begam depending on the husbandwill. 1) He should not have four wives. Love’ and motherhood played important roles in elevating such women to the status of legally wedded wives.

Besides, numerous mole and female slaves populated the Mughal household. Slaves moved between the external and internal I ife of the household as guards, servants and also as agent for women dabbling in commerce.
After Nurjahan, Mughal queens and princesses began to control significant financial resources. Shah Jahan’s daughters Jahannara and Roshnara enjoyed an annual income often equal to that of high imperial mansabdars. She also collected revenue from the port city of Surat.

Jahanara was the daughter of Shah Jahan. She was in-charge of the gardens and buildings. Shah Jahan made a new capital known as Shahjahanabad. Jahanara was the one who planned many of the buildings in the new capital. Here a two-storeyed inn with a fine sit-out and garden needs special mention. She was the one who planned the Chandni Chowk Bazar, the main centre in Shahjahanabad.

When Akbar asked Abul Fazl to write the history of his rule, he also asked his aunt Gulbadan to help. He asked her the record the memoirs of Babur’and Humayun. Akbar thought that this would help Abul Fazl in his work. Gulbadan Began accepted this challenge and wrote a book titled ‘Humyun-nama. She has written here about the fights and confrontations among the kings and princes. She has also shown how the elderly ladies of the family helped in solving such disputes.

Question 26.
Compare the perspectives of Battuta and Barnier ” based on thier descriptions on Indian Society. Ibn Battuta and Bernier wrote their travel notes with their different views. Ibn Battuta was attracted by the newness and strangeness of things. He wrote about all the things that interested and impressed him. But Bernier’s descriptions were quite different. He gave more importance to negative things. He was interested in the contrasts he found between the things in Europe, especially in his country, France, and here. He wanted to influence the rulers to take just decisions.

Bernier presented India on the model of the binary opposition. This way India was presented as directly opposite to Europe. He also presented the differences between India and Europe on a comparative scale. India was at the lowest rung of the ladder. In short Bernier felt that India was inferior and worse to the Western countries. Bernier talked about land ownership in India. There was no private ownership of land here. The land here belonged to the king.

The king divided the land among his lords. This was not good as people did not take interest in developing the land and invest in the land for long term purposes. Bernier says that there was no Middle Class in India. There were only 2 classes – the poor and the rich. The poor were the majority and they were suppressed by the ruling minority. There were too poor and too rich people, but there was no middle state. Bernier did not have a good impression about the Mughal Empire and its rulers.

The village communities were poor. They were often mistreated by the cruel landlords. Since there was no private land, people were not willing to work hard. Taxes were heavy. On the whole life in the village was unpleasant. Bernier thought that the Mughal rulers were more interested in their comfort and luxury. They werenot much worried about the welfare of the subjects. To Bernier Indian cities were Cam p Towns. But his views are contracted by modern historians. Bernier himself wrote to say that there were large scale exports from the country. Naturally from camp towns, they could not have exported a lot of things. For that they would need manufacturing cities, trade cities and port cities.

One touching description in Bernier’s writing is the description of Sati. The widow in his description was a girl of about 12. He witnessed this piteous incident in Lahore. This is what he wrote: “In Lahore, I saw a girl of 12 giving up her life in the pyre of her husband. She came to the pyre like a dead person. She was trembling with fear. She was crying piteously. I can’t, describe the pain she must have been experiencing then. With the help of an old woman, 4 Brahmins performed the rituals. That woman forced the girl to sit on the pyre. To prevent her from running away her’ hands and legs were tied. That poor girl was burnt alive.”  We must admit that Bernier was often prejudiced against the East. But his descriptions offer us valuable information about the society and its ways of life at the time of his visit to India.

Teachers recommend solving Kerala Syllabus Plus Two History Previous Year Question Papers and Answers Pdf Board Model Paper 2021 to improve time management during exams.

Kerala Plus Two History Board Model Paper 2021 with Answers

Answer the following questions from 1 to 42 upto a maximum score of 80.

Question 1.
Match column ‘A’ with appropriates from column ‘B’: (5 × 1 = 5)

A	B
Bahadur Shah	Lucknow
Nana Sahib	Barout
Kunwar Singh	Delhi
Birjis Qadr	Kanpur
Shah Mai	Arrah

Answer:

A	B
Bahadur Shah	Delhi
Nana Sahib	Kanpur
Kunwar Singh	Arrahe
Birjis Qadr	Lucknow
Shah Mai	Barout

Question 2.
Choose the correct answer from the given alternatives: (5 × 1 = 5)
i) Who founded the Mauryan empire?
a) Bimbisara
b) Ajatasatru
c) Chandragupta Maurya
d) Ashoka
Answer:
(i) Chandragupta Maurya

ii) Prayaga Prashasti was composed by:
a) Kautilya
b) Megasthenes
c) Harishena
d) Prabhavati Gupta
Answer:
(ii) Harishena

iii) The first gold coins in ancient India was issued by:
a) Kushanas
b) Mauryas
c) Vakatakas
d) Satavahanas
Answer:
(iii) Kushanas

iv) Which among the following was a provincial centre of the Mauryas?
a) Puhar
b) Mathura
c) Rajagaha
d) Suvamagiri
Answer:
(iv) Suvamagiri

v) Identify the chiefdom which rules Tamilakam.
a) Yaudheyas
b) Cholas
c) Guptas
d) Shakas
Answer:
(v) Cholas

Question 3.
Find the relation between the two parts of item (a) and fill in the blanks of item (b) accordingly. (5×1=5) ~
i) a) Mahavira : India
b) Socrates : _______
Answer:
Greece

ii) a) Buddha’s enlightenment : BodhaGaya
b) Buddha’s first Sermon : _______
Answer:

iii) a) Mahayana : Great vehicle
b) Hinayana : ________
Answer:
Samath

iv) a) Bhikkhus : Buddhism
b) Tirthankaras : ________
Answer:
Lesser vehicle

v) a) Zarathustra : Iran
b) KongZi : _________
Answer:
China

Question 4.
Arrange the following in chronological order: (5 × 1 = 5)
• GuruvayurSatyagraha
• Kundara proclamation
• Kurichiya revolt
• Temple entry proclamation
Answer:

1. Kundara Proclamation (1809)
2. Kurichiya Revolt (1812)
3. Malabar Rebellion (1921)
4. Guruvayur Satyagraha (1931-32)
5. Temple Entry Proclammation (1936)

Question 5.
Mark the following places on the outline map of ancient India provided: (5 × 1 = 5)
i) Lothal
ii) Chanhudaro
iii) Nageshwar
iv) Mohenjodaro
v) Banawali
Answer:

1. Lothal
2. Chanhudaro
3. Nageshwar
4. Mohenjodaro
5. Banawali

Questions from 6 to 19 carry 2 scores each.(14 × 2 = 28)

Question 6.
What were the strategies used by the Harappans to procure raw materials?
Answer:

• Establishing settlements in areas where raw materials are available.
• Expeditions to areas where raw materials are available.

Question 7.
Mention any two features of Harappan script.
Answer:

1. Short inscriptions
2. Signs
3. Signs in between 375 to 400
4. Signs in seals
5. Written from right to left
6. Contained the name and title of the owner.

Question 8.
Identify the features of Mahayana Buddhism.
Answer:

1. Importance in achieving nibbana
2. Buddha was regarded as a human being.
3. Idea of a saviour
4. Concept of the Bodhisatha
5. Image worship

Question 9.
Point out any two principles of Jainism.
Answer:

1. Entire world is animated
2. Ahimsa
3. Cycle of karma
4. Asceticism
5. Penance

Question 10.
Definethe terms Jama and Hasil.
Answer:

1. Jama – Amount assessed
2. Hasil – Amount collected

Question 11.
Write a note on Muqaddam.
Answer:

1. Panchayat headman
2. Chosen through the concensus of the village elders.
3. Supervised preparation of village accounts.

Question 12.
Name why two chronicles composed during the Mughal period.
Answer:
Akbar Nama, Shajahan Nama, Alamgir Nama, Badshah Nama, Babur Nama

Question 13.
Who were Jotedars?
Answer:

1. Rich peasants
2. Acquired thousands of acres of land
3. Controlled local trade as well as money lend-ing.

Question 14.
Why did the santhals fight against the British?
Answer:

1. Lost land
2. Heavy Tax
3. High rates of interest by money lenders.

Question 15.
Name any two images associated with the revolt of 1857.
Answer:
Relief of Lucknow, In Memorium, Justice, The Clemency of Canning.

Question 16.
Write any two early struggles involved by Mahatma Gandhi in India.
Answer:
Champaran Satyagraha, Kheda Satyagraha, Ahammadabad mill strike.

Question 17.
What are the features of Neythal Tinai?
Answer:

1. Coastal area
2. Fishing

Question 18.
Distinguish betwen Swarupam and Sanketam.
Answer:

• Swarupam-Autonomous region controlled by, the powerful matrilineal Joint families.
• Sanketam – Quasi autonomous territory consist¬ing several villages organized around a brahminical temple.

Question 19.
Prepare a short note on Ayyankali.
Answer:

1. Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham
2. Stood for civic rights of the lower castes.
3. Opposed caste system.
4. Kallumala agitation

Questions from 20 to 25 carry 3 scores each. (6 × 3 = 18)

Question 20.
Briefly describe the factors that led to the rise of Magadha.
Answer:
Cultivation, Iron mines, used elephants in war, Ganga and its tributaries provided cheap communication, powerful rulers, locatipn of capitals (Rajagaha and Pataliputra).

Question 21.
How did the archaeologists identify the centres of craft production in Harappa?
Answer:

1. Raw materials
2. Unfinished objects
3. Waste

Question 22.
What is Buddha Sangha? Explain its feature.
Answer:
Organisation of Buddhist monks – Monks led simple life. Women and different sections of people were admitted. All were regarded as equal. Consensus was arrived at through discussions.

Question 23.
Distinguish between’Khanqahs and Silsilas.
Answer:

1. Khanqahs – It was the centre of the social life of Sufis. It was controlled by a teaching master known as Shaikh (Arabic), Pir or Murshid (Per-sian)
2. Silsilas- It literally means a chain. It signifies a continuous link between master and discipline. Through this channel spiritual power and blessings were transmitted to devotees.

Question 24.
Elucidate how. rumours and prophecies led to the revolt of 1857.
Answer:

1. Greased gun and cartridges.
2. British had mixed the bone dust of cows and pigs into the flour that sold in the market.
3. The British rule would come to an end on the centenary of the Battle of Plassey, on 23 June 1757.

Question 25.
Prepare a short note on the Pazhassi revoit
Answer:

1. Kerala Varma Paihassi Raja
2. First phase was from 1793 to 1797
3. Mistaken revenue policy of the British.
4. The right to collect the revenue of Malabar was given to Veera Varma of Kurumbanad.
5. The second phase began in 1800.
6. The Kurichiyar and Kurum bas helped Pazhassi.
7. Kolkars
8. Pazhassi was killed in 1805.

Questions from 26 to 33 carry 4 scores each. (8 × 4 = 32)

Question 26.
Elucidate the causes that led to the decline of Harappan civikzation.
Answer:
Climatic change, Deforestation, Excessive flood. shifting/drying up of rivers, over use of landscape.

Question 27.
Explain the structure of The Stupas.
Answer:
Anda, Harmika.Yashti, Chatri, Mound, Railing

Question 28.
How did lbn Battuta describe the Indian cities?
Answer:

1. The cities in Indian subcontinent had full of opportunities for those who had the necessary drive, resources and skills.
2. The cities were densely populated and prosper¬ous cities had crowded streets and bright and colourful markets.
3. Delhi was a vast city.
4. Daulatabad was no less, and easily rivalled Delhi in size.

Question 29.
Explain how Francos Bernier Illustrated the lardoviiershbp of the Mughal India.
Answer:

1. Lack of private property in India.
2. The emperor owned all the land in the Mughal empire and this had disastrous consequences for the economy and society.
3. Landholders could not pass on this land to their children.
4. So they were averse to any long term invest-ment in the sustenance and expansion of pro-duction.
5. It had led to the uniform ruination of agriculture, excessive oppression of the peasantry and a continuous decline in the lining standard of all sections of society.
6. There is not a middle state in India.

Question 30.
What are the features of the Vijayanagara fortifications?
Answer:

1. Seven lines of forts.
2. These encircled not only the city but also its agricultural hinterland and forests.
3. Massive masonry construction.
4. No mortar or cementing agent.
5. The stone blocks were wedge shaped.
6. These were cultivated fields, gardens and houses among fort I ines.

Question 31.
Examine the capital cities of the Mughals.
Answer:
The capital cities of the Mughals frequently shifted during the 16th and 17th centuries. Babur took over the Lodi capital of Agra. In 1570s Akbar built the new capital FatehpurSikri. In 1585 capital was transferred to Lahore. In 1648 capital was shifted to Shajahanabad.

Question 32.
Briefly exaín the Quit India movement,
Answer:

1. Quit India movement began in 1942.
2. Activists organised strikes and acts of Sabotage all over them country.
3. Socialist members of the Congress were active in the underground.
4. Independent governments were proclaimed in different places.
5. It was a mass movement bringi ng into its am bit hundreds of thousands of ordinary Indians.
6. A loose three-tier confederation.

Question 33.
Elucidate the recommendations of the Cabinet Mission.
Answer:

1. India was to remain united.
2. Central government should control foreign affairs, defence and communication.
3. Provincial assembles should be grouped into three sections.
4. Basavanna – Lingayats

Questions from 34 to 38 carry 5 icores each. (5 × 5 = 25)

Question 34.
Describe the Washaiva tradition in Karnataka.
Answer:

1. Worshipped Shivalinga
2. They do not practise cremation.
3. They challenged the idea of caste and pollution.
4. They questioned the idea of caste and the pol-lution.
5. Oppsed Dharmashastras.
6. Vachanas
7. Brahmanas – Studying vedas, sacrifices
8. Kshatriyas – war, administration

Question 35.
Explain the ideal occupation of the Vamas existed in ancient India.
Answer:

1. Vaishyas-Agriculture, Cattle rearing, Trade
2. Shudras – Serving higher varhas.
3. 60 temples
4. Palaces

Question 36.
Prepare a short note on the royal centre of the Vijayanagara.
Answer:

1. Audience Hall
2. Mahanavami dibba
3. Lotus Mahal
4. Hazara Rama Tempie

Question 37.
What are the elements to be considered by the histonanswtiile analysing the text like Mahabharata?
Answer:

1. Language and Content – Mahabharata was written in Sanskrit. Content is classified into narrative and didactic.
2. Author and dates:- The original story was com-posed by Sutas. These compositions circulated orally. It was written in between 200BCE and 200 CE. Later Manusmriti was added. It is comprised of 100000 verses.
3. The search for convergence.

Question 38.
Explain the features of the Vlrupakasha temple and the Vitffiala temple found in the Sacred centre of the
Vijayanagara.
Answer:
Virupaksha was the guardian deity of the Vijayanagar empire. It was built over centuries. The earliest shrine was dated to the ninth-tenth centuries. The hall in front of the main shrine was built by Krishnadevaraya. This was decorated with delicately carved pillars. Vitthala was a form of Vishnu. This temple too has several halls and a unique shrine designed as a chariot.

Questions from 39 to 42 carry 8 scores each. (4 × 8 = 32)

Question 39.
Describe the to planning of Moheníodare.
Hint:
. Lower Toi
. Drainage System
. Domestic architecture
. Great Bath
Answer:
Mohenjodaro is divided into citadel and lower town. Citadel was higher then the lower town. Both were walled. Several buildings were built on platforms. The settlement was first planned and then implemented accordingly. Other signs of planning include bricks, which, whether sun-dried or baked, were of a stan-dard ratio, where the length, breadth and height were the same.

One of the most distinctive features of Harappan cit-ies was the carefully planned drainage system. Roads and streets were laid out along an approximate grid pattern, intersecting at right angles. The lower town at Mohenjodaro provides examples of residential buildings. Many were centered on a courtyard, with rooms on all sides. What is also in-teresting is an apparent concern for privacy.

Every house had its own bathroom. Some houses have remains of stair cases to reach a second storey or the roof. Many houses had wells. Scholars have estimated that the total number of wells in Mohenjodaro was about 700. It is on the citadel that we find evidence of structures that were probably used for special public purposes. These include a warehouse and the Great Bath. The Great Bath was a large rectangular tank in a court- yard.surrounded by a corridor on all four sides.

There were rooms on three sides, in one of which was a large well. Water from the tank flowed into a huge drain. Across a lane to the north lay a smaller build¬ing with 8 bathrooms, four on each side of a corridor, with drains from each bathroom connecting to a drain that ran along the corridor. The uniqueness of the structure, as well as the context in which it was found has led scholars to suggest that it was meant for some kind of a special ritual bath. Mohenjodaro is the most well known Harappan site.

Question 40.
Prepare an essay on the Mauryan empire. Areas to be considered.
. Sources
. Administration
. Ashoka’s Dhamma
Answer:
Chandragupta Maurya was the founder of the Maurya empire. Historians have used a variety of sources. They are the fol lowi ng.

1. Archaeological finds (Sculpture)
2. Arthashastra composed by Kautilya.
3. Account of Megastenes
4. Buddhist, Jaina, Puranicand Sanskrit literature.
5. Inscriptions of Asoka.

These were five major political centres in the Mauryan empire – the capital Pataliputra and the provincial centres of Taxila, Ujjaini, Tosali and Suvarnagiri, all mentioned in Asokan inscriptions. The regions in-cluded within the empire were just too diverse.

It is likely that administrative control was strongest in areas around the capital and the provincial centres. These centres were carefully chosen, both Taxila and Ujjayini being situated on important longdistance trade routes, while Suvarnagiri was possibly important for tapping the gold mines of Karnataka. Communication along both land and riverine routes was vital for the existence of the empire.

Megasthenes mentions a committee with six sub¬committees for coordinating military activity. Of these, one looked after the navy, the second managed trans¬port and provisions, the third was responsible for foot soldiers, the fourth for horses, the fifth for chariots and the sixth for elephants. The activities of the sec¬ond sub committee were rather varied: arranging for bullock carts to carry equipments, procuring food for soldiers and fodder for animals, and recruiting ser¬vants and artisans to look after soldiers.

Asoka also tried to hold his empire together by propa-gating Dhamma. According to Asoka, Dhamma would ensure the well being of people in this world and the next. Special officers, known as Dhamma mahamatta, were appointed to spread the message of dhamma. It was the first ruler who inscribed his messages to his subjects and officials on stone surfaces. He used the inscriptions to proclaim what he understood to be Dhamma. This included respect towards elders, generosity towards Brahmanas, and those who renounced worldly life, treating slaves and servants kindly, and respect for religions and traditins other than one’s own.

Question 41.
Explain how Al-Blrunis Accounts helped to understand meceval Indian society.
Hints:
. Early life
. Kltab.d-1-llnd
. Caste System
Answer:
Al-Biruni was born in 973, in Khwarizm in present day Uzbekistan. Khwarizm was an important centre of learning. He was well versed in several languages. Syrian, Arabic, Persian, Hebrew and Sanskrit. In 1017, when Sultan Mahmud invaded Khwarizm, he took several scholars and poets back to his capital, Ghazni, Al-Biruni was one of them.

It was in Ghazni that Al-Biruni developed an interest in India. Sanskrit works on astronomy, mathematics and medicine had been translated into Arabic from the eighth century onwards. He spend years in the company of Brahmana priests and scholars, learn- I ing Sanskrit, and studying religious and philosophical texts. He travelled widely in the Punjab and parts of northern India.

Al-Biruni is Kitab-ul-Hind, written in Arabic, is simple and lucid. It is a voluminous text, divided into 80 chapters on subjects such as religion and philosophy, festivals, astronomy, alchemy, manners and cus¬toms, social life, weights and measures, iconography, laws and metrology.

Generally, Al-Biruni adopted a distinctive structure in each chapter, beginning with a question, following its up with a description based on Sanskritic traditions, and concluding with a comparison with other cultures. This almost geortietric structure, remark¬able, for its precision and predictability, owed much to his mathematical orientation.

Al-Biruni, who wrote in Arabic, probably intended his work for people living along the frontiers of the subcontinent. He was familiar with translations and adaptations of Sanskrit. Pali and Prakrit texts into Arabic. These ranged from fables to works on as-tronomy and medicine. However, he was also criti-cal about the ways in which these texts were writ-ten, and clearly wanted to improve on them.

He discussed several ‘barriers’ that he felt obstructed understanding. The first amongst these was language. The second barrier he identified was the difference in religious beliefs and practices. Al-Biruni tried to explain the caste system by look-ing for paralels in other societies. He noted that in ancient Persia, four social categories were recognised: those of knights and princes; monks, fire-priests and lawyers, physicians, astronomers and other scientists; and finally, peasants and artisans.

In other words, he attempted to suggest that social divisions were not unique to India. At the same time he pointed out that within Islam all men were consid-ered equal, differing only in their observance of piety. Al-Biruni disapproved of the notion of pollution. His description of the caste system was deeply influenced by his study of normative Sanskrit texts. However, in real life the system was not quite as rigid.

Question 42.
Expalin the role of Mahatma Gandhi in the nationalist movement of India.
Areas to be considered:
. Non-Cooperation Movenent
. Salt Satyagraha
Answer:
Mahatma Gandhi made India’s national movement into a mass movement. The Non-cooperation move¬ment was the first mass movement organised by Gandhiji in India under Indian National Congress. He hoped that by coupling non-cooperation with Khilafat, India’s two major religious communities, Hindus and Muslims, could collectively bring an end to colonial rule.

As part of the Non-cooperation movement students stopped going to schools and colleges run by the government. The working class went on strike in many towns and cities. The countryside was seething with discontent too. Hill tribes in northen Andhra violated forest laws. Farmers in Awadh did not pay taxes. Peasant in Kumaun refused to carry loads for colonial officials. Peasants, workers, and others in-terpreted and acted upon the call to ‘non cooperate’ with colonial rule in ways that best suited their inter-ests, rather than conform to the dictates laid down from above.

It entailed denial, renunciation and self discipline. It was training for self rule. As a consequence of the- Non-cooperation movement the British Raj was shaken to its foundations for the first time since the Revolt of 1857. Then in February 1922, a group of peasants attacked and torched a police station in the hamlet of Chaurichaura in the United provinces. Several constables perished in the conflagration. This act of non violence prompted Gandhiji to call off the altogether. During the non cooperation movement thousands of Indians were put in jail.

Another mass movement organised by Gandhiji under the leadership pf the Congress was the Salt Satyagraha. Mahatma Gandhi announced that he would lead a march to break one of the most widely disliked laws in British India, which gave the state a monopoly in the manufacture and sale of salt. His picking on the salt monopoly was another illustration of Gandhiji’s tactical wisdom.

On 12 March 1930, Gandhiji began walking from his ashram at Sabarmati towards the ocean. He reached his destination three weeks later, making a fistful of salt as he did and thereby making himself criminal in the eyes of the law. Meanwhile, parallel salt marches were being conducted in other parts of the country.

This event brought Mahatma Gandhi to world atten-tion. It was the first nationalist activity in which women participated in large numbers. It was the salt march which forced upon the British the realisation that their Raj would not last for ever, and that they would have to devolve some power to the Indians. By the Gandhi- Irwin pact of 1931 Gandhiji called off the civil disobe¬dience movement and agreed to participate in the second round table conference. As a result all pris¬oners were released arid salt manufacture was al¬lowed along the coast.

Teachers recommend solving Kerala Syllabus Plus Two History Previous Year Question Papers and Answers Pdf Board Model Paper 2022 to improve time management during exams.

Kerala Plus Two History Board Model Paper 2022 with Answers

Part – I

A. Answer any 4 Questions from 1 to 6. Each carries 1 score. (4 × 1 = 4)

Question 1.
The place where Nana Sahib led the Revolt of 1857
a) Delhi
b) Awadh
c) Bihar
d) Kanpur
Answer:
d) Kanpur

Question 2.
The terracotta models of the polugh have been found at the Harappan site of
a) Kalibangan
b) Balakot
c) Banwali
d) Dholavira
Answer:
c) Banwali

Question 3.
The traces of canals were found at the Harappan site of
a) Shortugliai
b) Lothal
c) Chanhudaro
d) Cholistan
Answer:
a) Shortugliai

Question 4.
The remains of Millets are found from the Harappan site in
a) Rajasthan
b) Gujarat
c) Haryana
d) Punjab
Answer:
b) Gujarat

Question 5.
The leader of the Virashaiva tradition in Karnataka
a) Kabir
b) Ravidas
c) Basavanna
d) Mirabai
Answer:
c) Basavanna

Question 6.
Who among the following is associated with Sikh religion?
a) Guru Nanak
b) Sundarar
c) Appar
d) Sambandar
Answer:
a) Guru Nanak

B. Answer all questions from 7 to 10. Each carries 1 score. (4 × 1 = 4)

Question 7.
Who wrote the book’Padmavat’?
a) Malik Muhammad Jayasi
b) Shaikh Nizamudin
c) AmirKhusaru
d) Andal
Answer:
a) Malik Muhammad Jayasi

Question 8.
Which of the following is associated with Shadinama?
a) Lullabies
b) Stories
c) Wedding Songs
d) Drama
Answer:
c) Wedding Songs

Question 9.
The first European power who came to the Kerala coast
a) The Dutch
b) The Portuguese
c) The English
d) The French
Answer:
b) The Portuguese

Question 10.
The Capital of the Perumal Kindom in Kerala:
a) Kochi
b) Kannur
c) Mahodayapuram
d) Travancore
Answer:
c) Mahodayapuram

Part  -II

A. Answer any questions from 11 to 15. Each carries 2 scores. (3 × 2 = 6)

Question 11.
Write any two elements that historians consider when they analyse text like Mahabharata.
Answer:
• Language
• Content
• Author
• Date

Question 12.
Define Khud-Kashta and Pahi-Kashta.
Answer:

• Khud Kashta – Resident cultivators of villages.
• Pahi Kashta – Non-resident cultivators.

Question 13.
Examine the conditions of women in the agrarian society during the Mugal period.
Answer:
Women sowed, weeded, threshed and winnowed the harvest – gendered segregation was not possible – biases related to women’s biological functions – artisanal tasks – amongst the landed gentry, women had the right to inherit property.

Question 14.
Write any two limitations of oral history.
Answer:
Lack of concreteness and the chronology – unique¬ness of personal experience – memory of the indi¬vidual.

Question 15.
Name any two Tlnais mentioned in the Sangam Po-ems.
Answer:
• Kurinchi
• Mullai
• Palai
• Marutham
• Neithal

B. Answer any 2 questions from 16 to 18. Each carries 2 scores. (2 × 2 = 4)

Question 16.
Differentiate Vaishnavism and Shaivism.
Answer:
Vaishavism – Worship of Vishnu
Shainism – Worship of Shiva

Question 17.
Write a short note on the A in-1 Akbari.
Answer:
Abul Fazl – Completed in 1598 – 3rd book of Akbar Nama – Ain gives detailed accounts of the organisation of the court, administration and army, the sources of revenue and the physical layout of the princess of Akbar’s empire and the literary, cul¬tural and religious traditions of the people -5 books.

Question 18.
Who were the Joredars?
Answer:
While many Zamindars were facing a crisis at the end of the 18t’h century, a group of rich peasants called jotedars were consolidating their position in the villages. They controlled local trade as well as money lending. The power of jotedars was more effective than that of Zamindars. They were located in the villages. Their rise inevitably weakened Zamiondari authority.

Part – III

A. Answer any 3 questions from 19 to 23. Each carries 4 scores. (3 × 4 = 12)

Question 19.
Link column ‘A’ with ‘B’.

A	B
Paliyam Satyagraha	T.K. Madhavan
Kundara Proclamation	Rama Namby
Kurichiya Revolt	A.G. Velayudhan
Vaikom Satyagraha	Velu Thampi

Answer:

A	B
Paliyam Satyagraha	A.G. Velayudhan
Kundara Proclamation	Velu Thampi
Kurichiya Revolt	Rama Namby
Vaikom Satyagraha	T.K. Madhavan

Question 20.
Mark the following places on the outline map of an-cient India provided:
а) Lumbini
b) Samath
c) BodhGaya
d) Kusinagara
Answer:
a) Lumbini
b) Sarnath
c) Bodh Gaya
d) Kusinagara

Question 21.
Explain the features of Khanqahs and Silsilas.
Answer:

1. Khanqahs – Sufi hospices – controlled by a teaching master known as Shaikh, Pir or Murshid.
2. Silsilas – Sufi order – Literary means a chain signifying continuous link between master and disciple. It was through this channel that spiritual power and blessings were transmitted to devotees.

Question 22.
Bring out the features of the Mughal Capital cities.
Answer:

1. Delhi Agra
2. Fatehpur Sikri
3. Lahore
4. Shajahanabad

Question 23.
Why did the Santhals revolt against the British?
Rajmahal Hills – The hoe and the plough – paharias – settled agriculture expanded – In 1770s the British embarked on a brutal policy of extermination – Santhals were pouring into the area – Daipin-i-koh – Santhal settlements expanded rapidly – state levied heavy tax – money lenders – Santhal Revolt -1855¬56 – Sidhu.

B. Answer any 1 Question from 24 to 25. Carries 4 scores. (1 × 4 = 4)

Question 24.
Write short note on Brahmi and Kharosthi script.
Answer:
Most scripts used to write modern Indian languages are derived from Brahmi, the script used in most Asokan inscriptions. James Princep was able to de¬cipher Asokan Brahmi in 1838. The Kharoshti script was used in inscriptions in the north west. Here,’finds of coins of Indo-Greek kings who ruled overthe area have facilitated matters. These coins contain the names of kings written in Greek and Kharoshti scripts.With prinsep identifying the languages of the Kharoshti inscriptions as prakrit, it became possible to read longer inscriptions as well.

Question 25.
How did travellers described the condition of women and slaves in Medieval India?
Answer:
Slaves were openly sold in markets, like any other commodity, and were regularly exchanged as gifts. There was considerable differentiation among slaves. Some female salves in the service of the-sultan were experts in music and dance. Female slaves were also employed by the Sultan to keep a watch on his nobles. While some women seemed to embrace Sati cheer¬fully, others were forced to die. However, women’s lives revolved around much else besides the prac¬tice of Sati. Their labour was crucial in both agricul¬tural and non-agricultural production. It seems un¬likely that women were confined to the private spaces of their homes.

Part – IV

A. Answer any 3 questions from 26 to 29. Each carries 6 scores. (3 × 6 = 18)

Question 26.
Briefly explain the following:
a) Asoka’s Dhamma
b) Limitations of inscriptional evidences
Answer:
a) Asoka tried to hold his empire together by propa gating Dhamma, the principles of which were simple and virtually universally applicable. This would ensure the well-being of people in this world and the next. Special officers, known as the Dhamma mahamattta, were appointed to spread the message of dhamma. He used the inscriptions to proclaim what he understood to be Dhamma. This included respect towards elders, generosity towards Brahmanas and those who renounced worldly life, treating slaves and servants kindly, and respect for religions and traditions other than one’s own.

b) Technical limitations: Letters are very fainly engraved, inscriptions may be damaged or letters missing.

1. It is not always easy to be sure about the exact meaning of the words used in inscriptions.
2. Not all inscriptions have been deciphered, published and translated.
3. Many more inscriptions have not survived the ravage of time.
4. Not everything that we may consider po-litically or economically significant was neces¬sarily recorded in inscriptions.

Question 27.
Prepare short note on the following:
a) Teachings of Buddhism
b) The structure of the Stupas
Answer:
a. Sutta Pitaka – The world is transient (anicca) and constantly changing. It is also soulless . (anatta) as these is nothing permanent or eternal in it. Sorrow (dukkha) is intrinsic to human existence. It is by following the path of moderation between severe penance and self indulgence that human beings can rise above these wordly troubles. Social world is the creation of humans. Individual agency and righteous action are the means to escape from cycle of rebirth and attain nibbana.

b. Stupas are holy places. These are mounds where part of the mortal remains of Buddha or some things he used is buried. They have been made with bricks or stones. They have a lot of story value.

1. Even before the coming of Buddhism, the practice of making stupas was in existence. Later it became attached to Buddhism.
2. Since they are built over the remains of Buddha or the things he used, they are worshipped as a sign of Buddha and Buddhism.

Followers of Buddha built many stupas in different parts of India. The Buddhist Book “Asokavadana Sishta” says that Emperor Asoka sent the mortal remains of Buddha in all the important towns of his empire and ordered stupas to be built over them. By the 2nd century BC, many stupas were built. The most famous stupas are in Bharhut, Sanchi and Saranath.

Stupa is a Sanskrit word meaning a heap or mound. In the early times, stupas were in semi-circles. Later they were known as ‘anda’. Gradually, the structure of the stupas became complex. They now acquired circular and rectangular shapes. Overthe andas, they built some kind of balcony. It was called harmika which means ‘sreekovil’. It represents the abode of god. From harmika rose a flag-post, called ‘yashti’. Around this there were chhatris (umbrellas). Around ’ the mound, a stone wall was constructed separating it from the material world around. The early stupas in Sanchi and Bharhut were simple.

The gates and the fences were looking as if they were made of bamboos or wood. There were four entrance arches to the stupas. These arches were decorated with sculptures. The worshippers entered the stupa from the eastern archway and went round the mound, Later these v stupas were adorned with various sculptures and inscriptions. Such decorated stupas can be seen in Amaravati and Shahji-ki-dheri in Peshawar in Pakistan.

Question 28.
Write a brief note on the following:
a) TheMahanvami Dibba
b) The Gopurams and Mandapas
Answer:
a) Mahanavami dibba is situated in the Royal Centre of the Vijayanagara empire. It is a massive platform rising from a base about 11,000 sq.ft, to a heights of 40 ft. There is evidence to that it supported a wooden structure. The base of platform is covered with relief carvings.

Celebrations like Mahanavami are connected to Mahanavami Dibba. Mahanavami means the Great Ninth Day. This feast is known by different names in different regions. In North India it is ‘Dussehra’, in Bengal it is ‘Durga Pooja’ and in South India it is ‘Navaratri’. The Vijayanagara kings exhibited their glory and authority during this festival.

Mahanavami is celebrated with many rituala Idol worship, veneration to the royal horse, animal sacrifice etc. were part of the rituals. The celebrations are made more enjoyable through dance performances, wrestling, processions with adorned horses, elephants, chariots and soldiers. Nayakas and regional chiefs owing loyalty to the main King come with gifts for their king and his guests. All these rituals had their symbolic meanings. On the last day of the festival, a huge function was conducted in an open place. In that the King examines his army and also those of the Nayaks.On this occasion, the nayaks give tribute to the king. Along with the tribute, the nayaks also gave the king plenty of expensive gifts.

b) In the temple construction some new features appeared. The most important innovation was the construction of huge gate towers and halls. These were the symbols of royal authority. Therefore these towers were called ‘Rayagopuras’. They were very tall, like skyscrapers, and sometimes they were even bigger than the temple itself. They showed even from a far distance the presence of a temple. The Vijayanagara kings constructed halls and corridors with tall pillars. These corridors were made in such a way that they went round the main worshipping area. The halls had many pillars with inscriptions. The temples had extensive grounds on all the sides.

Question 29.
Analayse the rumours and prophesies existed during the period of the Revolt of 1857. Name any three leaders of the Revolt of 1857.
Answer:
Rumours and prophecies: Rumours and predictions did play a big role in the 1857 Revolt. The immediate cause of the Revolt was the rumour about the new cartridges for the Enfield rifles. A rumour spread that these cartridges were smeared with cow and pig fat. This news spread among the North Indian sepoys like wildfire.

The origin of this rumour was laterfound out. Captain Wright, who was the Commander of the Rifle Instruction Depot, had reported an incident. In the 3rd week of January 1857, a khalasi from a lower caste asked a Brahmin sepoy to give him some water from his container of water. The sepoy refused to give him his container saying that touch by a lower caste would pollute the water. The angered Khalasi then told him that soon he would have to use cartridges smeared with cow and pig fat and then he would lose his caste.

We don’t know the truth of this story. Another rumour quickly followed. It said that the British government was deliberately panning to destroy the Hindu and Muslim faiths. The rumour that the bones of both cows and pigs were ground and mixed with the flour sold in the market. People then refused even to touch this flour.
There was also a feeling that the British were trying to covert Hindus and Muslims into Christianity. This increased the fear and anxiety of the followers of these religions.

Role of leaders:
The revolt of 1857 broke out at Meerut. Then they rushed to Delhi and appeal to the old Mughal emperor to accept the leadership of the revolt. After that Bahahur shah took the leadership of the revolt in Delhi. In Kanpur, the revolt was led by Nana Sahib, the successor to Peshwa Baji Rao II. In Jhansi, the rani was forced by the popular pressure around her to assume the leadership of the uprising.

So was Kunwar Singh, a local zamindar in Arrah in Bihar. In Awadh, the British displaced the popular Nawab Wajid Ali Shah and annexed the state to British empire. So the people of Lucknow halied Birjisoadr, the young son of the Nawab, as their leader. Shah Mai mobilised the villagers of pargana Barout in Uttar Pradesh; Gonoo, a tribal cultivator of Singbhum ih Chotanagpur, became a rebel leader of the Kol tribals of the region.

B. Answer any 2 questions from 30 to 32. Each carries 6 scores. (2 × 6 = 12)

Question 30.
Explain the following:
a) The rules of marriage in ancient India
b) The Varna System.
Answer:

1. Brahma Marriage – In this type, the adorned bride is given in marriage to a wise, gentlemanly bridegroom.
2. Prajapatya Marriage-Here the father gives his daughter in marriage without any dowry. This is an altered version of Brahma marriage.
3. Arsha Marriage – Here the father of the girl gives his daughter to the bridegroom from whom he gets a pair of bulls or cows.
4. Daiva Marriage – Here the bridegroom is a priest.
5. Asura Marriage – Here the bridegroom gives bride price to the father of the bride for getting the girl married to him.
6. Gandharva Marriage – This is love marriage in the traditional way.
7. Rakshasa Marriage – The bride is kidnapped from her house and then she is given to the bridegroom.
8. Paisacha Marriage – This was very rare. Here the man molests the girl and since she has lost her virginity she is fdrcejl to marry the molester.

B) The Dharmasutras and Dharmasastras specify the kind of work the 4 classes have to do:

1. The Brahmins were to learn and teach Vedas, perform Yagas and give and receive alms.
2. The Kshatriyas were to fight in wars, protect people, ensure justice, learn Vedas, get Yagas done and give alms.
3. The Vaisyas were also to learn Vedas, get Yagas done and give alms. In addition, they were to practise agriculture, do trading, and keep sheep.
4. The Sudras were to do only one thing-serve the other 3 Classes.

Question 31.
Examine the importance of chronicles during the Mugal Period.
Answer:
As per the instructions from the Mughal Emperors, the palace historians kept a diary of the important happenings in the country. These are the Chronicles, t They talk about the achievements of the Mughal rulers. They also give chronologically the important ‘ events. Chronicles are an important source to study about the Mughal Capital and Mughal Empire.

1. One of the aims was to let the people know the policies of the state.
2. Another aim was to let the enemies of the country know that their efforts were bound to fail and they would be defeated.
3. A third aim was to leave the records of the Mughal rule to future generations.
   Akbar Nama, Badshah Nama, Humayun Nama, Babur Nama, Alamgir Nama etc. are some important Mughal chronicles.

Question 32.
Explain the following:
a) The Cabinet Mission
b) The Partition of India
Answer:
a) In March 1946 the British Cabinet sent a three- member mission to Delhi to examine the League’s demand and to suggest a suitable political framework for a free India. These were the recommendations:

1. Formation of an Indian Union including the BritishProvinces and the native states. India should remain one.
2. Defence, Foreign Affairs and Communication should be handled by the Centre. Other matters may be administered by the Province and native states.
3. The existing Provinces would be grouped into A, B and C. In A group there will be Provinces with Hindu majority. In the B group, there will be Provinces of Muslim majority from the North West region. In Group C, Muslim Majority Provinces of the North East, including Assam, will be included.
4. A Constitution making Committee will be made. This Committee will be elected by the Provincial Assemblies.
5. Until the Constitution is prepared, an Ad-hoc government will be formed in the Centre. It will consist of leaders of different political parties.

Partition soon became inevitable. Most Congress leaders were against it. But they had to finally agree to it They knew that although it was undesirable it was inevitable. There were only two people who vehemently opposed partition – Gandhi and Frontier Gandhi (Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan).

b) Before the naked truth of communal politics the dream of a united India was broken. As the Muslim League insisted that it would not be satisfied with anything less than a partition, partition became a reality. The British did not show any sincerity in checking the Muslim League from its extreme demands. In fact the British were encouraging the League in their demand for a separate country. The Cabinet Mission schemes failed, and things became more complex.

The thinking of the Muslim League made the unity and security of the country very complex. It did not join the Congress Government. It also exhorted for a communal riot. Against this, the Hindu Mahasabha, RSS and Akali Dal joined together and moved against the Muslim League.There was a series of communal murders of lootings in India. The North-Western parts of India were immersed in blood and the government was helpless. The indifferent attitude of the British indirectly helpect the riots. A stage was reached when both Hindus and Muslims thought Partition was the only way out.

In this tense situation, the 77-year old Gandhiji came forward to establish peace between Hindus and Muslims. He decided to give up everything to maintain his principle of Ahimsa which he cherihed all his life. He stifl believed he could change the minds of people. From the village of Noakhali in East Bengal he travefled to the villages in Bihar. He also went to Calcutta and Delhi which witnessed large scale killings and looting. He tried to prevent the Hjndus and Muslims from killing one another. He tried to give confidence to the members of the minority communities.

The worst victims of the Partition were women. Many have written about the terrible experiences many women. Many of them were raped. Many were kidnapped and sold. They were forced to live a new life with strangers in a strange Iand Somehow many of them suffered indescñbable difficulties. But some adjusted with the new situation.

The governments of India and Pakistan did not bother to realise the complexities of human relations. Both governments decided to exchange women belonging to their respective countries – the Pakistani women in India had to go to Pakistan and Indian women in Pakistan had to come to India. Following this, a countrywide search was made to locate the women abducted from both sides. Those who were found were sent back to their countries. Nobody bothered to seek the opinion of the women involved in this exchange. Thus women were denied to take decisions about their own lives.

Part – V

Answer any 2 questions from 33 to 35. Each carries 8 scores. (2 × 8 = 16)

Question 33.
Analyse.the features of the Harappan Civilization Hints:
• The Drainage System
• Domestic Architecture
• The Citadel
• Burial
Answer:
Mohenjo Daro is the most important site of the Harappan Culture. This was discovered after Harappa. It was from Mohenjo Daro that details regarding town planning, houses and seals of the Harappan Culture were got. This big city is situated in the Larkana District of Sind, on the shores of Sindhu River. The word Mohenjo Daro means the Mound of the Dead. The excavations made here brought to light the remains of a great city. The city was divided into two: The citadel and the Lower Town.

The Citadel (Fortress) is on a manmade platform. This is built on the western side of the city. This is the highest part of the city. There are two reasons for its height. Firstly, it is built on higher ground. Secondly, the buildings are put up on a platform made of earthen bricks. The fortress is protected with walls around it. Therefore it looks different from the Lower Town. In the fortress, there are tall buildings. They are public buildings. They were used for special public activities. The Warehouse and the Great Bath were the main structures in the fortress.

The Warehouse was the biggest building in Mohenjo Daro. The bottom part of the Warehouse is made of bricks. They still remain there. The upper part was built with wood. It got destroyed long ago. The Warehouse was used to store the left-over grain.

The most important structure ¡n the fortress (citadel) of Mohenjo Daro is the Great Bath. It is in rectangular shape. The pond is in the yard which is surrounded by corridors on all four sides. To get into the pond there are steps on the northern and southern sides.

The bottom of the pond is made watertight using bricks and lime paste. This prevents the water from seeping down and making the pond dry. There are rooms on 3 sides of the pond. There was a big well in one of the rooms. The water for the pond was brought from this 1I. There were provisions for filling the pond with water and to make the dirty water flow out Into drains. Historians think that the Great Bath had a religious importance. They think that this Great Bath was used for ritual baths.

The Great Bathshows the importance the Harappans gave to cleanliness. It alsoshows their engineering arid technical skills. The plight of Harappa was really bad. Although Harappa was the first site to be discovered, thieves took away all he bricks. This sad plight was noticed by Alexander Cunningham. He pointed out that a huge amount of bricks was taken away.

Thus most of the ancient buildings were lost. But Mohenjo Daro wasbetter protected. Most Harappan settlements had to parts a higher western part and a lower eastern part. The western part is called the citadel or fortress. It was protected by walls. But there are some differences in some places. In Lothal, the citadel had no walls around. But it was built very high.

The Lower Town was just belowthe citadel. This was also protected by walls. People lived here. Here we can see good examples of’domestic architecture. The houses were made of bricks. The houses were ordered in the Grid System. The houses were built along both sides of the road, with adequate space between houses. Thé doors and windows were opened to face the central yard. It is believed that the yard was used for cooking and also weaving.

The houses did not have doors and windows that faced the street. All the houses had bathrooms. They were paved with bricks. The drainage system was excellent. Houses were different in size. There were single room and double room houses. There were also houses with more than two storeys. To get to the top stories there were staircases. Big houses had wells. It was dug in a room in such a way that even outsiders could draw water from it. Experts estimate that Mohenjo Daro had some 700 wells.

Houses were built on raised platforms. The settlements were l planned. The bncks were made to certain specifications. The same kind of bricks were used in most constructions. The drainage system in the Harappan cities was excellent. The drain of each house was linked to the drainage canal outside. The drainage canals were covered with bricks or sheets of rock. In some places they covered the drainage canals with limestone slabs. It was possible to clean the canals by removing the top cdverings.

There were manholes in the public drainage. It is believed that the drainage was made first and thon came the houses. The drainage syste shows the engineering skill of the Harappan people. It shows they had a town administration. It also shows how much importance they gave to hygiene and health. The drainage system was not limited to big dtles. Even the settlements in places like Lothal had drainages.

Burials: The burial system existed in Harappa is the most important factor that helps us to find out the social differences existed in Harappa. At burials in Harappa soes the dead were generally laid in pits. Sometimes, these were differences in the way the burial pit was made. The variations can be considered as an indication of social differences.

Question 34.
Describe the travel experiences of I bn Battutaof medeival Indian Society. Areas to be considered:
a) An early globe-trotter
b) The Coconut and the paan
c) Description of Indian cities
Answer:
lbn Battuta was born in Tangier in Morocco. He belonged to one of the most respectable and educated families in Tangier. He considered experience gained through travels to be a more important source of knowledge than books. So he loved travelling, and went to far-off places, exploring new worlds and peopes.

lbnBath.a reached’Sind in 1333. He had heard about Muhammed bin Tughlaq, the Sultan of Delhi. He was attracted by the reputation of the Sultan and a gen erous patron of arts and letters. So he went to Delhi. The Sultan was impressed by his scholarship, and appointed him the qazior judge of Delhi. He remained in that position for several years. He returned to Morocco in 1347.

lbn Battuta’s book of travels called Rihia, Written in Arabic provides extremely rich and interesting de
tails about the soaal and cultural life in the fourte,century He carefully recorded his observations about
new customers, peoples, beliefs values, etc.

lbn Battuta stated that Indian cities had exciting opportunities for those who had the necessary, drive, resources and skills. They were densely populated and prosperous. Most of the cities had crowded streets and bright and colourful markets with a wide variety of goods. He described Delhi as a vast city with a great population, the largest city in India, Another big city in India was Daulatabad. The bazars re not only places of economic transactions but also the hub of social and cultural activities. Most bazars had a mosque and a temple. Some of them had spaces for public performances by dancers.

musician’s and singers. lbn Battuta found Indian ag riculture very productive because of the fertility of the soil, which allowed farmers to cultivate two crops a year. He also noted that the subcontinent was well integrated with inter-Asian network of trade and com merce. Indian goods had great demand in both West Asia and South East Asia.

The postal system in India surprised Ibn Battuta. This helped the merchants to send their goods to distant places and also to repay their debts. The postal sys tem was effiaent. From Sindh ittookonlyafewdays forgoodsto reach Delhi. The news sent by the spies would reach the Sultan in just five days. ome of the best examples of ibn Battuta’s strate gies of representation are evident in the ways n which he described the coconut and the paan, two kinds of plant produce that were completely unfamiliar to his audience.

Question 35.
Examine how Mahatma Gandhi transformed Indian National Movement into a mass movement.
Hints:
a) The Non-Cooperation Movement
b) Salt Satyagraha
c) Quit India Movement

Answer:
In January 1915, Gandhiji returned to his homeland. His first major public appearance was at the opening of the Banaras Hindu University.In 1916, Gandhiji was approached by a peasants from Champaran, who toldJiim about the harsh treatment of peasants by British indgo planters. Gandhiji was to spend much of 1917 in Champaran, seeking to obtain for the peasants had the freedom to cultivate The crops of their choice. In 1918, he was involved in two campaigns in his home state of Gujarat. First, he intervened the labour dispute in Ahmedabad demanding better working conditions for the textile mill workers. Then he joined the peasants in Kheda in asking the state for the remission of taxes following the failure of harvest.

During the great war of 1914-18 the British had instituted censorship of the press and permitted deten¬tion without trial. It had been passed on the recommendation of a committee chaired by Sir Sidney Rowlett. So it is known as Rowlatt Act.

Gandhiji called for a country wide campaign against the Rowlatt Act. The protest were particularly intense in the Punjab. Gandhiji proceeded to the Punjab. But oh the way he was detained. The situation in the province grew progressively more tense, reaching a bloody climax in Amritsar in April 1919. A British brigadier ordered his troops to open fire on a nationalist meeting. More than four hundred people were killed. This incident is known as the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre.

To broaden the straggle Gandhiji had joined hands with the Khilafat movement. It started to restore the caliphate a symbol of pan Islamism. The Non-Cooperation Movement was the first strong moment of Gandhi against the British. It was part of Gandhi’s concept of non-violence.

The Non-Cooperation Movement had three aims:
• Find a solution to the Punjab problem.
• Solve the Khilafat issue.
• Gain swaraj.

The exhortations of Gandhiji had great effect. Students boycotted government institutions. Thousands of workers in cities and towns went on strike. Official records show that in 1921 there were 396 strikes involving 6 lakh workers. 7 lakh working days were lost. In the Non-Cooperation Movement, women and farmers took active part.

The Chauri-Chaura incident was big jolt to the Movement Gandhi was forced to stop the Movement. Violence in Chauri-Chaura occurred when police fired at a procession of farmers. The enraged farmers attacked the Chauri-Chaura police station and burnt it. 22 policemen were killed. This shocked Gandhiji. He realized that people were not yet ready to fight using non-violence. On 22 February 1922, he decided to withdraw the Non-Cooperation Movement. He said that no provocation would justify the killing of the 22 policemen.

Gandhi planned a new way of struggle against the British. This was the Civil Disobedience Movement. He said he would start it by breaking the Salt Law. Salt Law was one of the laws that Indians hated most. Gandhi’s move to breach the salt law was a strategic one. He knew by this he could make the people fight against the government.

On 12 March 1930, Gandhiji began walking from his ashram at Sabarmati towards ocean. He reached the destination three weeks later, making fistful of salt as he did and there making himself a criminal in the eyes of the law. Meanwhile, parallel salt marches were conducted in other parts of India. Across large parts of India peasants breached the hated colonial forest laws. In some towns, factory workers went on strike shile lawyers boycotted British courts and students refuse to attend government run-education institutions. Nearly 6000 Indians in-cluding Gandhiji were arrested.

The British government continued a series of Round Table Conferences in London. The first Round Table Conference was held in 1930. Gandhiji or any promi-nent Congress leaders did not participate in the con-ference. Gandhiji was released from jail in 1931 and the following month had several meetings with the victory. This led to the Gandhi Irwin Pact, by the terms of which disobedience movements.

After the failure of Cripps Mission, Gandhiji decided to start his third phase of struggle against British rule. This is known as Quit India Movement. It started in August 1942. The immediate cause of this Move-ment was the failure of the Cripps Mission. Gandhi demanded that the British should leave India peace-fully and in a timely manner. Congress accepted that idea. On 8 August 1942, Congress met at Bombay and passed a resolution asking the British to quit India. The resolution made it clear that to make the British go away, a struggle would be organized un-der Gandhi. This struggle is known as Quit India Movement. Gandhi asked the people to come into the open with the slogan ‘Do or Die’.

a) It was a popular movement. Thousands of ordinary people came with their support. Youths were ready to quit colleges and go to jail.
b) It showed the willingness of the people to suffer for freedom and to go to any extent to achieve freedom.
c) it made the British realize that their days were numbered. It forced them to negotiate the transfer of power.
d) It brought world’s attention to the Indian struggle for freedom.

Teachers recommend solving Kerala Syllabus Plus Two History Previous Year Question Papers and Answers Pdf March 2021 to improve time management during exams.

Kerala Plus Two History Previous Year Question Paper March 2021

Answer the following questions from 1 to 42 upto a maximum score of 80.

Question 1.
Match column ‘A’with appropriates from column ‘B’:

A	B
Zarathustra	Tirthankara
Kong zi	Iron
Plato	Lumbini
Buddha	China
Mahavira	Greece

Answer:

A	B
Zarathustra	Iron
Kong zi	China
Plato	Greece
Buddha	Lumbini
Mahavira	Tirthankara

Question 2.
Find the relation between the two parts of item (a) and fill in the blanks of item (b) accordingly. (5 × 1 = 5)
i) a) Traces of Canal : Shortughai
b) Remains of water reservior : ______
Answer:
Dholavira

ii) a) Banawali : Haryana
b) Kalibangan : ________
Answer:
Rajagriha

iii) a) Shortughai : Lapis Lazuli
b) Khetri : ________
Answer:
Copper

iv) a) Magan : Oman
b) Dilmum : _______
Answer:
Bahrain

v) a) Terracotta models of plough : Iran
b) KongZi : _______
Answer:
Mohenjodaro

Question 3.
Choose the correct answer from the alternatives given below: (5 × 1 = 5)
i) Te earliest capital of Magadha
a) Taxila
b) Rajagriha
c) Ujjayini
d) Tosali
Answer:
(b) Rajagriha

ii) Megasthaneswas an ambassador from :
a) Greece
b) China
c) Iran
d) France
Answer:
a) Greece

iii) The title ‘devaputra’ was adopted by:
a) TheMauryas
b) The Guptas
c) TheKushanas
d) TheShakas
Answer:
c) TheKushanas

iv) ‘Prayaga Prashasti’ was composed by
a) Kautilya
b) Megasthenes
c) Asoka
d) Harishena
Answer:
d) Harishena

v) The first coins bearing the names and images of rulers were issued by:
a) Yaudheyas
b) Indo-Greeks
c) Kushanas
d) Guptas
Answer:
b) Indo-Greeks

Question 4.
Arrange the following in chronological order: (5 × 1 = 5)
• Vaikom Satyagraha
• Kundara Proclamation
• Pazhassi Revolt
• Paliyam Satyagraha
• Kurichiya Revolt
Answer:

1. Pazhassi Revolt (1793 -1805)
2. Kundara Proclamation (1809)
3. Kurichiya Revolt (1812)
4. Vaikom Satyagraha (1924 – 25)
5. Paliyam Satyagraha (1947 – 48)

Question 5.
Mark the following places on the outline map of ancient India provided: (5 × 1 = 5)
a) Delhi
b) Meerut
c) Kanpur
d) Jhansi
e) Lucknow
Answer:
a) Delhi
b) Meerut
c) Kanpur
d) Jhansi
e) Lucknow

Questions from 6 to 19 carry 2 scores each. (14 × 2 = 28)

Question 6.
Write any two features of harappan Script.
Answer:

1. Short inscriptions
2. Signs
3. Signs in between 375 to 400
4. Signs in seals
5. Written from right to left
6. Contained the name and title of the owner.

Question 7.
How can we find out the social differences in Harappa
Answer:
Burial Utilitarian and Luxury goods.

Question 8.
Mention any two places associated with the life of Buddha
Answer:
Lumbini, Sarnath, Bodhgaya, Kusinagara

Question 9.
Write a short note on Mahayana Buddhism.
Answer:

1. Importance in achieving nibbana
2. Buddha was regarded as a human being.
3. Idea of a saviour
4. Concept of the Bodhisatha
5. Image worship

Question 10.
Define ‘Khud-Kashta’ and ‘Pahi – Kashta’.
Answer:

1. khud kashta – Resident cultivators of village
2. Pahi Kashta – Non resident cultivators who come from another village

Question 11.
What is the meaning of the term ‘Jins-i Kamil’? Give an example.
Answer:
Jinsikamil – Perfect crops eg: Sugarcane, Cotton

Question 12.
Name the authors of Akbar name and Badshah Nama.
Answer:
AkbarNama-Abul Fazl Badshah Nama – Abdul Hamid Lahori

Question 13.
Who were Jotedars? Elucidate.
Answer:

1. Rich peasants
2. Acquired thousands of acres of land
3. Controlled local trade as well as money lend¬ing.

Question 14.
Why did the zamindars of Bengal default on revenue payments?
Answer:

1. High demand of the British
2. Depressed prices of agricultural products.
3. Invariable revenue regardless of the harvest.
4. Permenant settlement limited the power of the Zamindar to collect rent.

Question 15.
Mane any two leaders of the Revolt of 1857.
Answer:
Bahamshah, Nana Sahib, Kunwar Singh, Birjis Qadr, Shahmal, Rani Lekshmi bhai, Gonoo

Question 16.
Prepare a short note on the two early campaigns of Mahatma Gandhi in Gujarat.
Answer:

1. Kheda Satyagraha
2. Ahmadabad mill strike

Question 17.
Mention the names of two epics of the post Sangham Period.
Answer:

1. Chilappadikaram
2.  Manimekhala

Question 18.
What do you mean by ‘Kaccam’? Give an example.
Answer:
Code of conduct followed by the temples and Urs and Gramas during Perumal period. The major kaccam was Muzhikkulam kaccam.

Question 19.
Name any two social reformers of Kerala.
Answer:
Vaikunda Swamikal, Sree Narayana Guru, Chattampi Swamikal, Ayyankali, Vaikom Abdul Khader Maulavi, Vaghbhatananda, Mar Kuriakode Elias Chavara, VT.Bhattathirippad

Questions from 20 to 25 carry 3 scores each. (6 × 3 = 18)

Question 20.
How did the archaeologists identify the centres of craft production in Harappa?
Answer:

1. Raw materials
2. Unfinished objects
3. Waste

Question 21.
Write any three limitations of inscriptional evidences.
Answer:

1. Letters are very faintly engraved.
2. Inscriptions may be damaged or letters missing.
3. Not sure about the exact meaning of the words.
4. Not all inscriptions have been discovered.
5. Many more inscriptions have not survived the ravage of time.
6. Not everything that we may consider significant was necessarily recorded in inscripfions.
7. The content of inscriptions projects the perspec-tive of the person who commissioned them.

Question 22.
Briefly explain the structure of a stupa.
Answer:
Anda, Harmika, Yashti, Chatri, Mound, Railing

Question 23.
ExplainZiyaratand Qawwali.
Answer:

1. Ziyarat – Pilgrimage to tombs of sufi saints.
2. Qawwali – Mystical chants performed by spe¬cially trained musicians or Qawwals to evoke divine ecstasy.

Question 24.
Write a short note on the images related to the Revolt of 1857.
Answer:
Relief of LUcknow, In Memorium, Justice, The Clem- encyofCanning.

Question 25.
Prepare a short note on the Temple Entry Proclamation in Travancore.
Answer:
On 12 November 1936 Sree Chitra Tirunal Balarama Varma, the ruler of Travancore, issued the famous Temple Entry Prodammation opening all the temples of the state to all Hindus irrespective of state. Gandhiji hailed it as a miracle of modern times.

Questions from 26 to 33 carry 4 scores each. (8 × 4 = 32)

Question 26.
Point out any for causes of the decline of Harappan Civilization.
Answer:
Climatic change, Deforestation, Excessive flood, shifting/drying up of rivers, over use of landscape.

Question 27.
Examine the main ideas of Jainism.
Answer:

1. Entire world is animated
2. Ahimsa
3. Cycle of karma
4. Asceticism
5. Penance

Question 28.
Explain the views of Ibn Battuta on medieval Indian Cities.
Answer:

1. The cities in Indian subcontinent had full of opportunities for those who had the necessary drive,, resources and skills.
2. The cities were densely populated and prosper-ous cities had crowded streets and bright and colourful markets.
3. Delhi was a vast city.
4. Daulatabad was no less, and easily rivalled Delhi in size.

Question 29.
How did Francois Bernier compare the East and the West?
Answer:

1. Bernier travelled to several parts of the country.
2. He compared what he saw in India with the situ ationin Europe.
3. He dedicated his major writing to Louis XIV the King of France.
4. Bemier described what he saw in India as a bleak situation in companson to developments in Europe.
5. His assessment was not always accurate.

Question 30.
Briefly expalin aboutthe Mahanavami dibba.
Answer:

1. Mahanavami dibba is situated in the Royal oenire.
2. Massive platform.
3. Abase of about 11000 sq.ft.
4. Aheightof4oft.
5. The base of the platform is covered with relief carvings.
6. Rituals associated with the structure probably coincided with Mahanavami festival.
7. The Vijayanagar kings displayed their prestige, power and suzerainty on this occasion.

Question 31.
Examine the features of Mughal provincial administration.
Answer:

1. Provinces were known as Subas.
2. Provincial governors were known as Subadar.
3. Ministers had their corresponding subordinates diwan, bakshi and Sadr.
4. Suba was divided into Sarkars.
5. Sub districts were known as Pargana.
6. Qanungo was the keeper of revenue records.
7. Chaudhuri was in charge of revenue collection.
8. Each department maintained a large support staff.

Question 32.
Evaluate the background of Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
Answer:

1. In 1919 the British government passed the “RoWatt,4d’ that permitted detention wtthouttflal.
2. Gandhiji called for a countryside campaign against the ‘Rowlatt Act’.
3. In Punjab prominent local Congressmen wete arrested.
4. InAmritsar, in April 1919, a British brigadier or dered his troops to open fire on a nationalist meeting.
5. More than fuor hundred peop’e were killed in what is known as the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

Question 33.
List out the main rcommendations of the Cabinet Mission.
Answer:

1. A kose three-tier confederation.
2. India was to remain united.
3. CentraI government should control foreign affairs, defence and communication.
4. Provincial assembles should be grouped into three sections.

Questions from 34 to 38 carry 5 scores each. (5 × 5 = 25)

Question 34.
What are the elements to be considered by the historians while analysing texts like Mahabharata? Explain.
Answer:

1. Language and Content – Mahabharata was written in Sanskrit. Content is classified into narrative and didactic.
2. Author and dates:- The original story was composed by Sutas. These compositions circulatedorally. It was written in between 200BCE and 200 CE. Later Manusmriti was added. It is corn prised of I 00000 verses.
3. The search for convergence.

Question 35.
List out the four Varnas mentioned in the Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras. Explain their ‘ideal occupations’.
Answer:

1. Brahmanas – Studying vedas, sacrifices
2. Kshatriyas – war, administration
3. Vaishyas – Agriculture, Cattle rearing, Trade
4. Shudras – Serving higher vamas.

Question 36.
Briefly explain the Virashaiva tradition in Karnataka.
Answer:

1. Basavanna – Lingayats
2. Worshipped Shivalinga
3. They do not practise cremation.
4. They challenged the idea of caste and pollution.
5. They questioned the idea of caste and the pollution.
6. Oppsed Dharmashastras Vachanas

Question 37.
Analyse the features of the fortifications in Vijayanagara.
Answer:

1. Seven lines of forts.
2. These encircled not only the city but also its agricultural hinterland and forests.
3. Massive masonry construction.
4. No mortar or cementing agent.
5. The stone blocks were wedge shaped.
6. These were cultivated fields, gardens and houses among fort lines.

Question 38.
Examine the temple architecture of Vijayanagara with special mention to Virupaksha and vitthala temples.
Answer:
Virupaksha was the guardian deity of the Vijayanagar empire. It was built over centuries. The eariiest shrine was dated to the ninth-tenth centuries. The hall in front of the main shrine was built by Knshnadevaraya. This was decorated with delicately carved pillars. Vitthala was a form of Vishnu This temple too has several halls and a unique shrine designed as a chariot. Gopurams and Manciapas were the distinctive fea tures of the Vijayanagar temples. Hazara Rama Temple was an important temple in the Royal centre.

Questions from 39 to 42 carry 8 scores each. (4 × 8 = 32)

Question 39.
Explain the town planning system existed in Mohenjodaro.
Hints:
• Citadel
• Lower Town
• Drainage System
• Domestic architecture
Answer:
Mohenjodaro is divided into citadel and lower town. Citadel was higher then the lower town. Both were walled. Several buildings were built on platforms. The settlement was first planned and then implemented accordingly. Other signs of planning include bricks, which, whether sun-dried or baked, were of a stan dard ratio, where the length, breadth and height were the same.

One of the most distinchve features of Harappan cit ies was the carefully planned drainage system. Roads and streets were laid out along an approximate grid pattern, intersecting at right angles. The lower town at Mohenjodaro provides examples of residential buildings. Many were centered on a courtyard, with rooms on all sides. What is also In teresting is an apparent concern for privacy. Every house had its own bathroom. Some houses have remains of stair cases to reach a second storey or the roof. Many houses had wells. Scholars have estimated that the total number of wells in Mohenjodaro was about 700.

It is on the citadel that we find evidence of structures that were probably used for special public purposes. These indude a warehouse and the Great Bath. The Great Bath was a large rectangular tank in a court yard surrounded by a corridor on all four sides. There were rooms on three sides, in one of which was a large well. Water from the tank flowed Into a huge drain. Across a lane to the north lay a smaller building with 8 bathrooms, four on each side of a corridor, with drains from each bathroom connecting to a drain that ran along the corridor. The uniqueness of the structure, as well as the context in which it was found has led scholars to suggest that it was meant for some kind of a special ritual bath. Mohenjodaro is the most well known Harappan site.

Question 40.
Analyse the main features of Mauryan administrative system. Areas to be considered:
• Sources
• Five major political centres
• Military administration
• Asoka’s Dhamma
Answer:
Chandragupta Mauya was the founder of the Maurya empire. Historians have used a variety of sources. They are the following.

1. Archaeological finds (Sculpture)
2. Arthashastra composed by Kautilya.
3. Account of Megastenes
4. Buddhist, Jaina, Purariic and Sanskrit Uterature.
5. Inscriptions of Asoka.

These were five major political centres in the Mauryan empire – the capital Pataliputra and the provincial centres of Taxila, Ujjaini, Tosali and Suvamagirl, all mentioned in Asokan inscriptions. The regions in-cluded within the empire were just too diverse.

It is likely that administrative control was strongest in areas around the capital and the provincial centres. These centres were carefully chosen, both Taxila and Ujjayini being situated on important longdistance trade routes, while Suvarnagiri was possibly important for tapping the gold mines of Karnataka.

Communication along both land and riverine routes was vital for the existence of the empire. Megasthenes mentions a committee with six sub¬committees for coordinating military activity. Of these, one looked after the navy, the second managed transport and provisions, the third was responsible for foot soldiers, the fourth for horses, the fifth for chariots and the sixth for elephants. The activities of the sec-ond sub committee were rather varied: arranging for bullock carts to carry equipments, procuring food for soldiers and fodder for animals, and recruiting ser-vants and artisans to look after soldiers.

Asoka also tried to hold his empire together by propa gating Dhamma. According to Asoka, Dhamma would ensure the well being of people in this world and the next. Special officers, known as Dhamma mahamatta; were appointed to spread the message of dhamma. It was the first ruler who inscribed his messages to his subjects and officials on stone surfaces. He used the inscriptions to proclaim what he understood to be Dhamma. This included respect towards elders, generosity towards Brahmanas, and those who renounced worldly life, treating slaves and servants kindly, and respect for religions and traditins other than one’s own.

Question 41.
Evaluate the accounts of Al-Biruni regarding medieval India.
Hints:
• Early life
• The Kitab-ul-Hind
• The barriers faced by Al-Biruni
• Description of the caste system
Answer:
Al-Biruni was born in 973, in Khwarizm in present day Uzbekistan. Khwarizm was an important centre of learning. He was well versed in several languages. Syrian, Arabic, Persian, Hebrew and Sanskrit. In 1017, when Sultan Mahmud invaded Khwarizm, he took several schplars and poets back to his capital, Ghazni, Al-Biruni was one of them.

It was in Ghazni that Al-Biruni developed an interest in India. Sanskrit works on astronomy, mathematics and medicine had been translated into Arabic from the eighth century onwards. He spend years in the Maximum cpuWisfters company of Brahmana priests and scholars, learning Sanskrit, and studying religious and philosophical texts. He travelled widely in the Punjab and parts of northern India.

Al-Biruni is Kitab-ul-Hind, written in Arabic, is simple and lucid. It is a voluminous text, divided into 80 chapters on subjects such as religion and philosophy, festivals, astronomy, alchemy, manners and cus¬toms, social life, weights and measures, iconography, laws and metrology.

Generally, Al-Biruni adopted a distinctive structure in each chapter, beginning with a question, following its up with a description based on Sanskritic traditions, and concluding with a comparison with other cultures. This almost geometric structure, remarkable, for its precision and predictability, owed much to his mathematical orienfation.

Al-Biruni, who wrote in Arabic, probably intended his work for people living along the frontiers of the sub-continent, He was familiar with translations and ad-aptations of Sanskrit. Pali and Prakrit texts into Ara-bic- these ranged from fables to works on astronomy and medicine. However, he was also critical about the ways in which these texts were written, and dearly wanted to im prove on them.

He discussed several ‘barriers’ that he felt obstructed understanding. The first amongst these was lan-guage. The second barrier h(e identified was the dif-ference in religious beliefs and practices. Al-Biruni tried to explain the caste system by looking for paralels in other societies. He noted that in ancient Persia, four social categories were recognised: those of knights and princes; monks, fire-priests and lawyers, physicians, astronomers and other scientists; and finally, peasants and artisans.

In other words, he attempted to suggest that social divisions were not unique to India. At the same time he pointed out that within Islam all men were considered equal, differing only in their observance of piety. Al-Biruni disapproved of the notion of pollution. His description of the caste system was deeply influ-enced by his study of normative Sanskrit texts. How-ever, in real life the system was not quite as rigid.

Question 42.
Analyse the major struggles of Mahatma Gandhi for India’s freedom.
Hints:
• Non-Cooperation Movement
• Salt Satyagraha
• Quit India
Answer:
Mahatrpa Gandhi made India’s national movement into a mass movement. The Non-cooperation move-ment was the first mass movement organised by Gandhiji in India under Indian National Congress. He hoped that by coupling non-cooperation with Khilafat, India’s two major religious communities, Hindus and Muslims, could collectively bring an end to colonial rule.

As part of the Non-cooperation movement students stopped going to schools and colleges run by the government. The working class went on strike in many towns and cities. The countryside was seething With discontent too. Hill tribes in northen Andhra violated forest laws. Farmers in Awadh did not pay taxes. Peasant in Kumaun refused to carry loads for colonial officials. Peasants, workers, and others interpreted and acted upon the call to ‘non cooperate’ with colonial rule in ways that best suited their interests, rather than conform to the dictates laid down from above.

It entailed denial, renunciation and self discipline. It was training for self rule. As a consequence of the Non-cooperation movement the British Raj was shaken to its foundations for the first time since the Revolt of 1857. Then in February 1922, a group of peasants attacked and torched a police station in the hamlet of Chaurichaura in the United provinces. Several constables perished in the conflagration. This act of non violence prompted Gandhiji to call off the altogether. During the non cooperation movement thousands of Indians were put in jail.

Another mass movement organised by Gandhiji under the leadership of the Congress was the Salt Satyagraha. Mahatma Gandhi announced that he would lead a march to break one of the most widely disliked laws in British India, which gave the sjpte a monopoly in the manufacture and sale of salt. His picking on the salt monopoly was another illustration Of Gandhiji’s tactical wisdom.

On 12 March 1930, Gandhiji began walking from his ashram at Sabarmati towards the ocean. He reached his destination three weeks later, making a fistful of salt as he did and thereby making himself criminal in the eyes of the law. Meanwhile, parallel salt marches were being conducted in other parts of the country. This event brought Mahatma Gandhi to world attention. It was the first nationalist activity in which women participated in large numbers. It was the salt march which forced upon the British the realisation that their

Raj would not last forever, and that they would have to devolve some power to the Indians. By the Gandhi Irwin pact of 1931 Gandhiji called off the ovil disobe dience movement and agreed to participate In the second round table conference. As a result all pris oners were released and salt manufacture was allowed along the coast.

Quit India movement began in 1942. Activists organised strikes and acts of Sabotage all over them country. Socialist members of the Congress were active in the underground. lndependent governments were proclaimed in different places. It was a mass movement bringing into its ambit hundreds of thou sands of ordinary Indians.

Teachers recommend solving Kerala Syllabus Plus Two History Previous Year Question Papers and Answers Pdf March 2022 to improve time management during exams.

Kerala Plus Two History Previous Year Question Paper March 2022

Part – I

A. Answer any questions from 1 to 6. Each carries 1 score. (4 × 1 = 4)

Question 1.
The Great Bath was situated at
(a) Mohenjodaro
(b) Kalibangan
(c) Harappa
(d) Dholavira
Answer:
(a) Mohenjodaro

Question 2.
Who gave leadership for the preparation of a critical edition of the Mahabharata?
(a) B.B. Lai
(b) V.S.Sukthankar
(c) Mahashweta Devi
(d) R.D.Baneiji
Answer:
(b) V.S.Sukthankar

Question 3.
Socrates was a native of:
(a) Iran
(b) China
(c) Russia
(d) Greece
Answer:
(d) Greece

Question 4.
Identify the birth place of the Buddha.
(a) Lumbini
(b) Bodh Gaya
(c) Samath
(d) Kusinagara
Answer:
(a) Lumbini

Question 5.
Where did the Buddha make his first sermon?
(a) Sachi
(b) Amaravati
(c) Kusinagara
(d) Samath
Answer:
(d) Samath

Question 6.
Name the leader of the Virashaiva movement in Karnataka.
(a)GuruNanak
(b) Basavanna
(c) Andal
(d) Appar
Answer:
(b) Basavanna

B. Answer all questions from 7 to 10. Each carries 1 score. (4 × 1 = 4)

Question 7.
Identify the king who was referred to as ‘Piyadassi’.
a) Kanishka
b) Samudra Gupta
c) Bimbisara
d) Asoka
Answer:
d) Asoka

Question 8.
Sultan Jehan Begum was the ruler of:
a) Amaravati
b) Bhopal
c) Iran
d) Guntur
Answer:
b) Bhopal

Question 9.
The Vijayanagara empire was founded in:
a) 1300
b) 1316
c) 1326
d) 1336
Answer:
d) 1336

Question 10.
Who started the newspaper ‘Rajyasamacharam’?
a) Benjamin Bailey
b) AmosPathiri
c) Hermen Gundert
d) Rev. Mead
Answer:
c) Hermen Gundert

Part – II

A. Answer any 3 questions from 11 to 15. Each carries 2 scores.

Question 12.
Prepare a short note on AkbarNama
Answer:
Abul Fazl – 3 books – first two books are chronicles – third isAin-i- Akbari – Reign of Akbar.

Question 13.
Point out any two capital cities of the Mughals.
Answer:

1. Delhi
2. Fathepur Sikri
3. Agra
4. Lahore
5. Shajahanabad

Question 14.
Write the names of any two leaders of the Revolt of 1857.
Answer:

1. Bahadurshah
2. Jhansi Rani
3. Nana Sahib
4. Shahmal Beegum Hazrat Mahal
5. Gonoo

Question 15.
Mention the names of any two Tinais.
Answer:

1. Kurinchi
2. Mullai
3. Palai
4. Marutham
5. Neithal

B. Answer any 2 questions from 16 to 18. Each carries 2 scores. (2 × 2 = 4)

Question 16.
Prepare a short note on Ain-i-Akbari.
Answer:
Abul Fazl – completed in 1598 – 3rd book of Akbar Nama – Aim gives detailed accounts of the organisation of the court  administration and army, the sources of revenue and the physical lay out of the princess of Akbar’s empire and the literacy, cultural and religious traditions of the people – 5 books.

Question 17.
Identify any two rulers who rules the Mughal empire in between 1526 to 1707.
Answer:

1. Babur
2. Humayun
3. Akbar
4. Jahangir
5. Shahjahan
6. Aurangazeb

Question 18.
Elucidate the European powers who came to Kerala for trade.
Answer:

1. The Portuguese
2. The Dutch
3. The English
4. The French

Part – III

A. Answer any 3 questions from 19 to 23. Each carries 4 scores. (3 × 4 = 12)

Question 19.
Evaluate the causes for the decline of the Harappan Civilization.
Answer:

1. Climatic change
2. Deforestation
3. Excessive floods
4. Over use of the landscape
5. Shifting and/or drying up of rivers

Question 20.
Examine the condition of women in the agrarian society of the Mughals.
Answer:
Women sowed, weeded, threshed and winnowed the harvest – gendered segregation was not possible – biases related to women’s biological functions – artisanal tasks – amongst the landed gentry, women had the right to inherit property.

Question 21.
Mark the following places on the outline map of ancient India:
• Delhi
• Kanpur
• Jhansi
• Awadh
Answer:

1. Delhi
2. Kanpur
3. Jhansi
4. Awadh

Question 22.
Evaluate the importance of oral history in the history of India’s partition.
Answer:
Lack of concreteness and the chronology – unique¬ness of personal experiences – memory of the indi¬vidual – Urvasi Bhutalia – The other side of silence’.

Question 23.
Match Column A with appropriate items from Column B.

Column A	Column B
Velu Thampi	Savarna Jatha
Rama Namby	Kallumala agitation
Mannath	Kundara Proclamation
Padmanabhan	Kurichiya Revolt
Ayyankali

Answer:

Column A	Column B
Velu Thampi	Kundara Proclamation
Rama Namby	Kurichiya Revolt
Mannath Padmanabhan	Savarna Jatha
Ayyankali	Kallumala agitation

B. Answer any 1 question from 24 to 25. Carries 4 scores. (1 × 4 = 4)

Question 24.
How did travellers like Ibn Battuta and Francois Bernier describe the condition of women and slaves in medieval India?
Answer:
Slaves were openly sold in markets, like any other commodity, and were regularly exchanged as gifts. There was considerable differentiation among slaves. Some female salves in the service of the sultan were experts in music and dance. Female slaves were also employed by the Sultan to keep a watch on his nobles.

While some women seemed to embrace Sati cheer¬fully, others were forced to die. However, women’s lives revolved around much else besides the prac¬tice of Sati. Their labour was crucial in both agricultural and non-agricultural production. It seems un¬likely that women were confined to the private spaces of their homes.

Question 25.
Analyse the importance of Awadh during the Revolt of 1857.
Answer:
The taking over of Awadh by the British made the local kings, talukdars, peasants and sepoys very unhappy and angry. By taking over Awadh, not only the Nawab but also many talukdars lost their jobs. The talukdars had many estates and fortresses in the villages of Awadh. They had been in control of these lands for generations. They had much power in the villages. They also used to keep small army units with them. Some even had armies numbering up to 12,000 soldiers. Even the small ones had 200 footmen.

The British refused to accept the autonomy and authority of the talukdars. Soon after they took over Awadh, they dispersed the armies of the talukdars and destroyed their fortresses. The land tax system also was not liked by the talukdars. The British enforced the new tax system in 1856. This was called the Summary Settlement of 1856. This was enforced with the concept that the talukdars had no permanent ownership of the land. The British saw them as encroachers who got the ownership of the land using ail kinds cheating and even force.

The British wanted to avoid the talukdars and make settlements with the real owners of the land. They thought this would reduce exploitation of the farmers and increase the government’s income. But in reality none of these happened. The officials soon realized that the tax imposed on the fanners was much more than their capacity to pay. In short the Summary Settlement was a failure. It satisfied neither the farmers nor the talukdars.

As talukdars lost their positions, their social status was lost. The relations between them and the farmers were ruined. Before the take-over by the British there was cordiality between the talukdars and the farmers. Although the talukdars were strict, they often behaved like the guardians of peasants. They helped peasants in their needs. They also gave peasants loans during festivals.

Peasants also showed loyalty to talukdars. But the coming of the British spoiled all these. The farmers got no consideration from the British. The British charged them heavy tax and used strict methods to collect it. During crop failure, or times of trouble, or feasts, the British never helped the peasants.

The ousted talukdars wanted to get back their lost estates and power. They became the strongest enemies of the British. In places like Awadh, where the revolt was the worst, the talukdars and the farmers were in the forefront of the revolt. Many of the talukdars were loyal to the Nawab. They joined Begum Hazrat Mahal, the wife of the Nawab, in her fight against the British. Even in failure, the talukdars did not abandon the Begum.
The taking over of Awadh by the British made the sepoys also unhappy. Many o f them were from Awadh itself. They did not like the idea of their birthplace getting into the hands of the British.

The Sepoys had many problems and complaints. They had small salarjes. The places they had to stay and the food they got were not of good quality. It was also difficult to get leave. The chances of promotion were limited. They did not get any foreign service allowance for working outside India. The journeys across the seas were not liked by many, because some religions prohibited such journeys. They also were unhappy because the British did not allow many of them to wear headcovers and also beards.

Part – IV

A. Answer any 3 questions from 26 to 29. Each carries 6 scores. (3 × 6 = 18)

Question 26.
Explain the features of the stupas and its relation with Buddhism.
Answer:
Stupas are holy places. These are mounds where part of the mortal remains of Buddha or some things he used is buried. They have been made with bricks or stones. They have a lot of story value.

1. Even before the coming of Buddhism, the practice of making stupas was in existence. Later it became attached to Buddhism.
2. Since they are built over the remains of Buddha or the things he used, they are worshipped as a sign of Buddha and Buddhism.

Followers of Buddha built many stupas in different parts of India. The Buddhist Book“Asokavadana Sishta” says that Emperor Asoka sent the mortal remains of Buddha in all the important towns of his empire and ordered stupas to be built over them. By the 2nd century BC, many stupas were built. The most famous stupas are in Bharhut, Sanchi and Saranath.

Stupa is a Sanskrit word meaning a heap or mound. In the early times, stupas were in semi-circles. Later they were known as ‘anda’. Gradually, the structure of the stupas became complex. They now acquired
circular and rectangular shapes.

Over the andas, they built some kind of balcony. It was called harmika which means ‘sreekovil’. It represents the abode of god. From harmika rose a flag-post, called ‘yashti’. Around this there were chhatris (umbrellas). Around the mound, a stone wall was constructed separating it from the material world around. The early stupas in Sanchi and Bharhut were simple.

The gates and the fences were looking as if they were made of bamboos or wood. There were four entrance arches to the stupas. These arches were decorated with sculptures. The worshippers entered the stupa from the eastern archway and went round the mound, Later these stupas were adorned with various sculptures and inscriptions. Such decorated stupas can be seen in Amaravati and Shahji-ki-dheri in Peshawar in Pakistan.

Question 27.
Assess the factors that led to the emergence of Magadha.
Answer:
Fertility of soil – growth of agriculture – iron deposit – use of elephants in war – communication through river Ganga – Powerful rulers like Bimbisara, Ajathashathru and Mahapadmananda – location of capitals (Rajagaha and Pataliputra)

Question 28.
Explain the features of the buildings in the Royal centre of the Vijayanagara empire.
Answer:
The royal centre was located in the southwestern part of the subcontinent. Although designated a royal centre, it included over 60 temples. There are more distinctive structures in the area. The King’s palace is the largest. It has two impressive platforms. They were the audience hall and Mahanavami dibba. The audience hall is a high platform with slot for wooden pillars. It had a stair case going up to the second floor which rest on the pillars. So there were little free space. So it is not clear what the hall was used for.

It is a massive platform rising from a base about 11,000 sq.ft, to a heights of 40 ft. There is evidence to that it supported a wooden structure. Tfie base of platform is covered with relief carvings Celebrations like Mahanavami are connected to Mahanavami Dibba. Mahanavami means the Great Ninth Day. This feast is known by different names in different regions. In North India it is ‘Dussehra’, in Bengal it is ‘Durga Pooja’ and in South India it is ‘Navaratri’. The Vijayanagara kings exhibited their glory and authority during this festival.

Mahanavami is celebrated with many rituals. Idol worship, veneration to the royal horse, animal sacrifice etc. were part of the rituals. The celebrations are made more enjoyable through dance performances, wrestling, processions with adorned horses, elephants, chariots and soldiers. Nayakas and regional chiefs owing loyalty to the main King come with gifts for their king and his guests. All these rituals had their symbolic meanings. On the last day of the festival, a huge function was conducted in an open place. In that the King examines his army and also those of the Nayaks.On this occasion, the nayaks give tribute to the king. Along with the tribute, the nayaks also gave the king plenty of expensive gifts.

One of the most beautiful buildings in the Royal Centre is the “Lotus Mahal”. This name was given by the British travellers who came here in the 19th century. Historians are not very sure for what purpose this structure was esed. Mackenzie feels that this was a Council Chamber in which the King met his advisors. There are many temples in the Royal Centre.

One of the important temples in the Royal Centre is Hazara Rama Temple. It is believed that only the king and his family members used this temple. The important idols of the Hazara Ramaswami Temple are not yet found. But the inscriptions and sculptures on the walls are still seen there. There are scenes from the Ramayana. They have been inscribed on the inner walls of the temple. When Vijayanagara was destroyed most of the constructions there also were destroyed. Still the tradition of building palatial structures was continued by the Nayaks. Many of the buildings made by them are still standing.

Question 29.
Analyse the life of Paharias and Santhals in the Rajmahal hills.
Answer:
Rajmahal Hills – The hoe and the plough – paharias – settled agriculture expanded – In 1770s the British embarked on a brutal policy of extermination – Santhals were pouring into the area – Damin-i-koh – Santhal settlements expanded rapidly – state levied heavy tax – money lenders – Santhal Revolt -1855-56 – Sidhu.

B. Answer any 2 questions from 30 to 32. Each carries 6 scores.

Question 30.
Explain the social condition of ancient India based on four fold varna system and system of marriage.
Answer:

1. Brahmanas – Study and teach vedas, perform sacrifices, give and receive gifts.
2. Kshatriyas – warfare, protect people and administer justice, study the vedas, get sacrifices performed, and make gifts.
3. Vaishyas – Engaged in agriculture, pastoralism and trade.
4. Shudras – Serve the three higher vamas. Exogamy, endogamy, Brahma marriage, Arsha marriage, child marriage, Asura marriage, Gandharva marriage, Rakshasa marriage, Paisacha marriage, monogamy, polgamy, polyandry etc. are some of the marriages that existed in ancient India.

Question 31.
Explain the early Bhakti traditions of South India.
Answer:
The leaders of early Bhakti movement were poet saints. They challenged the orthodox brahaminical traditions. These traditions also accomodated and acknowledged women and the lower castes. Some of the early Bhakti Movement were led by the Alvars and Nayanars.

Alvars and Nayanars initiated a movement of protest against the caste system and the dominance of Brahmins. This can be proved by the fact that the bhaktas came from diverse social backgrounds. They included various groups like brahmanas, artisans, cultivators, etc. The tradition of the Alvars and Nayanars were considered important. Many claimed that their composition were an important on the vedas. For example, one of the major anthologies of composition by the Alvars, the Nalayira Divya Prabandam, was known as Tamil Veda. This text was considered as significant as four vedas in Sanskrit.

I n the 12th century, a new pious movement came up in Karnataka. A Brahmin named Basavanna (1106 – 1168) was the leader of this movement. Virashaiva Movement is also called Lingayat. In the beginning Basavanna was a believer of Jainism. He had also served as a minister under King Bijalaof Chalukya. Because of serious differences of opinion, Basavanna decided to quit Jainism and with his son-in-law he formed the Virashaiva Movement. His followers were called Virasaivas or Lingayats.

Question 32.
Evaluate the background of the partition of India.
Answer:
It is quite true that the anti-Indians in Pakistan and anti-Pakistanis in India were the product ofvthe Partition. R.M. Murphy, a famous journalist, says that there are many anti Hindus in Pakistan and anti-N Muslims in India. They consider their opposite group as cruel, fanatical and vicious. Such misconceptions were in existence even before partition.

But these beliefs were strengthened with the unfortunate happenings in 1947.The voices of hared are still heard in both countries. When there are communal problems, the anger and hatred come in the open. People mutually accuse each other, repeating the atrocities committed during the partition time. The policies of both India and Pakistan were based, to an extent, on these misconceptions.

Some historians, both in India and Pakistan, believe that the Two-Nation Theory of Mohammed Ali Jinnah had actually originated in the Middle Ages. The two- nation theory stresses that the Hindus and Muslims of Colonial India are two separate nations. They show that difference have been in existence for centuries. The Partition of 1947 was just a climax for the long-standing rivalries.

These historians stress only the rivalries. They do not see the friendship and cooperation that existed between them. Although there were differences between the two communities there was also the sharing of cultural and economic aspects.

Some scholars say that the Partition was the result of the communal politics that began in India in the beginning of the 20th century. It was the separate constituencies allowed to the Muslims that caused such divisive thinking. Minto-Morley Reforms of 1909 allowed these separate constituencies. The Montague-Chelmsford Reforms expanded the concept still further. Separate constituencies helped the Muslims to elect their own representatives.

This was exploited by the politicians. They started promoting religious thinking. Each politician, whether Hindu or Muslim, did some favours to the members of his community and thus gained acceptance among them. Their only purpose was to gain power by playing the religious card. Religious concepts began to influence politics. Enmity between religious groups grew. Some incidents that took place in the first decades of the 20th century also increased the tension between the two communities. In the 1920s and 30s, this enmity grew.

1. Singing in front of the mosques, Save-the-Cow Movement, and the Suddhi Movement by Arya Samaj which tried to bring back coverts into other religions including Islam, made the Muslims unhappy.
2. The growth of some Islamic Organizations like Tabligh (Islamic Preaching) enraged Hindus.
3. Fanatics in both groups tried to organize their members with greater unity and solidarity. Opposing groups often clashed. This caused communal riots in many parts of the country.

Part – VI

Answer any 2 questions from 33 to 35. Each carries 8 scores. (2 × 8 = 16)

Question 33.
Explain the features of the Harappanb civilization on the bassi of following hints:
Hints:
• Mohenjodaro – A planned urban centre
• Seals and script
Answer:
History has left behind a number of evidences that Harappan civilization was an urban civilization. The greatest site of Harappan civilization is Mohenjo Daro. This was discovered after Harappa. It is from Mohenjo Daro that evidences of town planning, dwellings and seals of the Harappan civilization were discovered. This big city is situated in the Larkana District of Sindh on the shore of River Sindhu. The meaning of Mohenjo Daro is ‘The Mound of the Dead”. The excavations done here brought to light the remains of a well planned city. This city was divided into two parts – The Citadel and the Lower Town.

The Citadel: Citadel is a small manmade platform. It is located on the western side of the city. Citadel is the highest part of the city. There are two reasons for the unusual height of the citadel. First of all it is built on a higher ground. Secondly its buildings are constructed on the bricks made of earth. The citadel is protected by building walls around it. There are many big buildings in the citadel. They have been used various special purposes. The main buildings of the citadel are The Warehouse, and the Great Bath.

The Warehouse : The biggest building of Mohenjo Daro is its warehouse of barn. The lower part of this building is built with bricks. It can still be seen. The upper portion of the warehouse is made of wood. With the passage of most of it is ruined. The warehouse was used to store the leftover food grains.

The Great Bath : The most important structure in the citadel of Mohenjo Daro is the Great Bath. It is in rectangular shape. The pond is in the yard which is surrounded by corridors on all four sides. To^get into the pond there are steps on the northern and southern sides. The bottom of the pond is made watertight using bricks and lime paste. This prevents the water from seeping down and making the pond dry. There are rooms on 3 sides of the pond. There was a big well in one of the rooms.

The water for the pond was brought from this well. There were provisions for filling the pond with water and to make the dirty water flow out into drains. Historians think that the Great Bath had a religious importance. They think that this Great Bath was used for ritual baths. The Great Bath shows the importance the Harappans gave to cleanliness. It also shows their engineering and technical skills.

Lower Town : Domestic Architecture: The Lower Town was just below the citadel. This was also protected by walls. People lived here. Here we can see good examples of domestic architecture. The houses were made of bricks. The houses were ordered in the Grid System. The houses were built along both sides of the road, with adequate space between houses. The doors and windows were opened to face the central yard. It is believed that the yard was used for cooking and also weaving.

The houses did not have doors and windows that faced the street. All the houses had bathrooms. They were paved with bricks. The drainage system was excellent. Houses were different in size. There were single room and double room houses. There were also houses with more than two storeys. To get to the top stories there weife staircases.

Big houses had wells. It was dug in a room in such a way that even outsiders could draw water from it. Experts estimate that Mohenjo Daro had some 700 wells. Houses were built on raised platforms. The settlements were well planned. The bricks were made to certain specifications. The same kind of bricks was used in most constructions.

The drainage system : The drainage system in the Harappan cities was excellent. The drain of each house waslinked to the drainage canal outside. The drainage canals were covered with bricks or sheets of rock. In some places they covered the drainage canals with limestone slabs. It was possible to clean the canals by removing the top coverings. There were manholes in the public drainage.

Seal and Script:
The Harappan people used seals and sealings to identify the goods that sent from one place to another. The sealings convey the identity of the sender. Most of the Harappan inscriptions are short, the longest containing about 26 signs. The Harappan script is not deciphered so far. It was evidently not alphabetical as it has just too many signs. somewhere between 375 to 400. The script was written from right to left. The Harappan writing has been found on seals, copper tools, rims of jars, copper and terracotta tablets, jewellery bone rods and an ancient signboard.

Question 34.
How did Al-Biruni describe India in his text? Explain.
Answer:
Al-Biruni was born at Khwariezm in Uzbekistan. Khwariezm was an important centre of knowledge and so he got the best education possible. He was a linguist a scholar in many languages. He knew Syriac, Arabic, Persian, Hebrew and Sanskrit. He was not familiar with Greek. But he had read the books of Plato and other Geek philosophers through Arabic translations. In 1017 Suitan Mahmud Ghazni attacked Khwarezm. He made many people prisoners and took them to Ghazni. Al-Biruni was one of them. Although he came to Ghazni as a prisoner, he began to like the place. He entered the services of Mahmud Ghazni and remained in Ghazni until he died at the age of 70.

It was in Ghazni that Al – Biruni developed an interest in India. Sanskrit work on astronomy, mathematics, and medicine, had been translated into Arabic from the eighteenth century on wards. When the Punjab became a part of the Ghaznavid empire, contact with local population helped to create an environment of mutual trust and understanding. He spent years in the company of Brahmin priests and scholars, learning Sanskrit and studying religion and philosophical texts.

Al-Biruni’s Kitab-ul-Hind, written in Arabic, is simple and lucid. It is a voluminous text, divided into 80 chap- ’ ters on subjects such as religion, philosophy, festivals, astronomy, alchemy, manners and customs, social life, weights and measures, iconography, laws and metrology. He adopted a distinctive structure in each chapter. He began the chapter with a question. Then a description was made on the basis of Sanskrit tradition. The chapter was concluded with a comparison with other cultures. Some present-day scholars argued that this almost geometric structure, re- markablefor its precision and predictability. It reflects his mathematical orientation.

Al-Biruni was conscious of the problems involved in understanding strange countries. He has mentioned three things that proved difficult:

1. The first problem was language – Sanskrit was quite different from Arabic and Persian languages.
   It was not easy to translate the concepts from one language into another.
2. The second problem was the differences in religions and rituals.
3. The third problem was the secluded people who were interested only in their things. They looked at foreigners with suspicion and were not willing to mingle with them freely.

Al-Biruni accepted the Class distinctions as put forward by Brahmins. But he did not approve of the untouchability practised by them. He said that things that were impure would always try to get back their purity and succeed. For example, the sun purifies the air. The salt in sea-water prevents it from getting polluted. Without this natural purification, life would be impossible on this earth. He argued that untouchability is against natural laws.

The ideas of Al-Biruni exercised powerful influence in the study of Sanskrit books. The rules regarding
Varna System were formulated favouring the Brahmins. In real life Varna was not so strict. For example, the antyaja (who were born outside the Varna System) were expected to work for the agriculturists and zamindars for small wages. Although they were socially suppressed, they were induded in the economic activities.

Question 35.
Analyse the role of Mahatma Gandhi in India’s freedom struggle.
Areas to be considered:
• Early struggles
• Non-Cooperation Movement
• The Salt Satyagraha
Answer:
Gandhjji’s first Satyagraha was that of Champaran in Bihar. The indigo farmers there were exploited by the European estate owners. The farmers were forced to cultivate indigo in place of other crops. Then they were forced to sell the indigo at the prices determined by the estate owners. In 1917, Gandhi went to Champaran and studied in details about the pathetic situation of the farmers there. Authorities asked Gandhi to go away from the place but he did not obey.

He continued his research. He wanted to ensure that the farmers could cultivate what they wanted and not what others wanted. Ultimately, the government appointed a Commission. The Commission approved most of the demands of the farmers. Gandhi succeeded in his first attempts at Satyagraha. In 1918, Gandhiji led two protest movements. One was in Ahmedabad and the other was in Kheda. Gandhi interfered in a dispute between the workers and the owners of a cloth mill inAhmedabad. In 1919 the workers embarked on a strike demanding fast unto death demanding increased wages to the workers and better working conditions for them. The mill owners were ready to negotiate. The wages of the workers were increased by 35%.

In Kheda Gandhi fought for the farmers. Because of a serious draught, farmers in Kheda had a serious problem as their crops were damaged. Gandhi told the farmers not to give taxes until some reductions in the taxes were made. Finally the government approved the demand of the farmers and Gandhi ended his satyagraha. The Champaran, Kheda and Ahmedabad satyagahas of Gandhi were a preparation for his entry into Indian National Movement. These activities helped him in understanding the problems of the people.

The Non Cooperation Movement was the first strong moment of Gandhi against the British. It was part of Gandhi’s concept of non-violence. In the beginning he co-operated with the British. But some developments in 1919 made Gandhi change his attitude. The Rowlett Acts, Jalian Wala Bagh tragedy, the Khilafat Movement etc. were some of them.

The Non-Cooperation Movement had three aims:

1. Find a solution to the Punjab problem.
2. Solve the Khilafat issue.
3. Gain swaraj.

The exhortations of Gandhiji had great effect. Students boycotted government institutions. Thousands of workers in cities and towns went on strike. Official’ records show that in 1921 there were 396 strikes involving 6 lakh workers. 7 lakh working days were lost. In the Non-Cooperation Movement, women and farmers took active part. Many women came out of their purdah to take part in the protests.

1. The Movement spread even to villages. The forest dwellers in Andhra Pradesh broke the forest laws. Farmers of Awadh and Bihar took part in the struggle by refusing to pay taxes. The farmers of Kumaon (Uttarakhand) refused to carry the goods of the Colonial officers.
2. Often these protests were done against the instructions of regional leaders. Instead of taking orders from higher authorities, they refused to cooperate with the Colonial administration.

The Chauri-Chaura incident was big jolt to the Movement. Gandhi was forced to stop the Movement. Violence in Chauri-Chaura occurred when police fired at a procession of farmers. The enraged farmers attacked the Chauri-Chaura police station and burnt it. 22 policemen were killed. This shocked Gandhiji. He realized that people were not yet ready to fight using non-violence. On 22 February 1922, he decided to withdraw the Non-Cooperation Movement. He said that no provocation would justify the killing of the 22 policemen.

The Non-Cooperation Movement was a significant milestone. In the biography of Mahatma Gandhi, Louis Fischer (American) says that the Non-Cooperation Movement was big turning point in the history of India and also the life of Gandhi. It combined denial, sacrifice and self-control. Fischer says it was some kind of training for Autonomy.

Teachers recommend solving Kerala Syllabus Plus Two History Previous Year Question Papers and Answers Pdf March 2023 to improve time management during exams.

Kerala Plus Two History Previous Year Question Paper March 2023

Question 1.
Match Column ‘A’ with appropriate items from Column ‘B’.

A	B
KunwarSing	Delhi
Bahadurshah-ll	Kanpur
Rani Lakshmi Bai	Arrah (Bihar)
Nana Sahib	Jhansi

Answer:

A	B
KunwarSing	Arrah (Bihar)
Bahadurshah-ll	Delhi
Rani Lakshmi Bai	Jhansi
Nana Sahib	Kanpur

Answer any 4 questions from 2 to 7. Each carries 1 score.

Question 2.
Identify, the nation of Plato.
(a) China
(b) Iran
(c) India
(d) Greece
Answer:
(d) Greece

Question 3.
Name the author of Humayun Nama.
(a) Gulbadan Begum
(b) Abul Fazl
(c) Humayn
(d) Nurjahan
Answer:
(a) Gulbadan Begum

Question 4.
Which among the following Tinai is the coastal zone?
(a) Marutham
(b) Mullai
(c) Neithal
(d) Palai
Answer:
(c) Neithal

Question 5.
Identify the founder of Modern Travancore.
(a) Marthanda Varma
(b) Saktan Thampuran
(d) VeluThampi
(e) Pazhazzi Raja
Answer:
(a) Marthanda Varma

Question 6.
Identify the land ruled by Saktan Thampuran
(a) T ravancore
(b) Kochi
(c) Kozhikode
(d) Kannur
Answer:
(b) Kochi

Question 7.
In which year Vasco da Gama reached Calicut?
(a) 1497
(b) 1600
(c) 1604
(d) 1498
Answer:
(d) 1498

Question 8.
Arrange the following in chronological order: (4 × 1 = 4)
• Vaikom Satyagraha
• Kundara Proclamation
• Guruvayur Satyagraha
• Pazhassi Revolt
Answer:
Pazhassi Revolt-(1793 – 1805)
Kundara Proclamation (1809)
Vaikom Satyagraha (1924 – 25)
Guruvayoor Satyagraha (1931 -32)

Question 9.
Mark the following places on the outline map of ancient India provided. (4 × 1 = 4)
(a) Harappa
(b) Mohenjodaro
(c) Dholavira
(d) Kalibangan
Answer:
(a) Harappa
(b) Mohenjodaro
(c) Dholavira
(d) Kalibangen

Answer any 8 questions from 10 to 18. Each carries 2 scores. (8 × 2 = 16)

Question 10.
Write any two causes for the decline of the Harappan Civilization.
Answer:
Deforestation, Climatic change, Floods, change in the course of river/drying up river, overuse of land.

Question 11.
Distinguish between Endogamy and Ex-ogamy.
Answer:
Endogamy- Marriage\Vithinthe Gotra Exogamy – Marriage outside the Gotra.

Question 12.
Mention any two elements to be considered while analysing texts like Mahabharata.
Answer:
Language, content, Author, Date

Question 13.
Name the founders of the Vijayanagara em-pire.
Answer:
Harihara, Bukka

Question 14.
Write the names of any two dynasties of Vijayanagara empire.
Answer:
Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva, Aravidu

Question 15.
Write a short note on Mahanavamidibba.
Answer:
It is a massive platform rising from a base about 11,000 sq.ft, to a heights of 40 ft. There is evidence to that it supported a wooden structure. The base of platform is covered with relief carvings. Celebrations like Mahanavami are connected to Mahanavami Dibba. Mahanavami means the Great Ninth Day. This feast is known by different names in different regions. In North India it is ‘Dussehra’, in Bengal it is ‘Durga Pooja’ and in South India it is ‘Navaratri’. The Vijayanagara kings exhibited their glory and authority during this festival.

Mahanavami is celebrated with many rituals. Idol worship, veneration to the royal horse, animal sacrifice etc. were part of the rituals. The celebrations are made more enjoyable through dance performances, wrestling, processions with adorned horses, elephants,

chariots and soldiers. Nayakas and regional chiefs owing loyalty to the main King come with gifts for their king and his guests. All these rituals had their symbolic meanings. On the last day of the festival, a huge function was conducted in an open place. In that the King examines, his army and also those of the Nayaks.On this occasion, the nayaks give tribute to the king. Along with the tribute, the nayaks also gave the king plenty of expensive gifts.

Question 16.
Bring out the names of any two capitals of the Mughals.
Answer:
Agra, Fatehpursikri, Lahore, Shajahanbad

Question 17.
List out any two suggestions of the Cabinet Mission.
Answer:
These were the recommendations:

1. Formation of an Indian Union including the British Provinces and the native states. India should remain one.
2. Defence, Foreign Affairs and Communication should be handled by the Centre. Other matters may be administered by the Province and native states.
3. The existing Provinces would be grouped into A, B and C. In A group there will be Provinces with Hindu majority. In the B group, there will be Provinces of Muslim majority from the North West region. In Group C, Muslim Majority Provinces of the North East, including Assam, will be included.
4. A Constitution making Committee will be made. This Committee will be elected by the Provincial Assemblies.
5. Until the Constitution is prepared, an Adhoc government will be formed in the Centre. It will consist of leaders of different political parties.

Partition soon became inevitable. Most Congress leaders were against it. But they had to finally agree to it. They knew that although it was undesirable it was inevitable. There were only two people who vehemently opposed partition – Gandhi and Frontier Gandhi (Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan).

Question 18.
What do you mean by Direct Action Day?
Answer:
After withdrawing its support to the Cabinet Mission plan, the Muslim Leagure decided on ‘Direct Action’ for winning its Pakistan, demand. It announced 16 August 1946 as ‘Direct Action Day’. On this day riots broke out in Calcutta, lasting several days and leaving several thousands of people dead. By March 1947 violence spread to many parts of northern India.

Answer any 2 questions from 19 to 21. Each carries 3 scores. (2 × 3 = 6)

Question 19.
List out any three limitations of inscriptional evidences.
Answer:

1. Fade letters
2. Inscriptions may be damaged or letter missing.
3. No exact meaning
4. Many inscriptions have not survived the revageoftime.
5. Out look of those who commissioned it.

Question 20.
Prepare a short note on Kabir.
Answer:
Kabir occupies a significant place among the poet saints. The verses of Kabir have been complied in three district traditions – Kabir, Bijak, Kabir Granthavali and Adi Granth Sahib. Kabir poem have survived in several languages and dialects. Some of them are composed in Sant bhasha and Ulatbansi. He used different traditions to describe the ultimate reality. These include Islam: he described the ulti¬mate reality as Allah, Khuda, Hazrat and Pir. He also good terms drawn from Vedantic traditions alakh, Nirakar, Brahman, Atman, etc. The term such as Shabda or Shunya were drawn from Yogic tradition.

Diverse and sometimes conflicting ideas are expressed in these poems. Some of his poem used Islamic ideas of monotheism and iconoclasm to attack Hindu polytheism and idol worship. Legacy of Kabir was claimed by several groups. Hagiographies within the Vaishnava tradition suggest that he was born a Hindu but was raised by a poor muslim family belonging to the community of weavers, who were relatively recent converts to Islam.

Question 21.
Write a short note in Kitab Khana.
Answer:
In Mughal India, the centre of manuscript pro¬duction was the imperial kitabkhana. Although kitebkhana can be translated as library, it was a scriptorium, that is, a place where the emperor’s collection of maniscripts was kept and new manscripts were produced.

Answer any 4 questions from 22 to 26. Each carries 4 scores. (4 × 4 = 16)

Question 22.
Explain the views of Megasthanese on the military administration of the Mauryas.
Answer:
Megasthenes says that to make the work of the army easy, there was a Committee with 6 sub-committees. Each subcommittee had the following responsibilities.

• 1 – supervised the navy.
• 2 – supervised transport and arrangements for food.
• 3 – was in charge of the footmen.
• 4 – controlled the cavalry.
• 5 – was in charge of the chariots.
• 6 – took care of the elephants.

The 2nd subcommittee had extensive duties. It had to prepare bullock carts for moving goods, ensure that the soldiers and animals got proper food, and employ servants and helpers to take care of the needs of soldiers.

Question 23.
Elucidate the structure of a stupa.
Answer:
Buddhism – semi circular mound – Anda- Harimika-Yashti-Chchetri

Question 24.
Explain the features of the Amaranayaka system of the Vijayanagara empire.
Answer:
In Vijayanagara Empire there was the system of “Amara Nayaka”. This system had many of the features of the “Iqta system’ of the Delhi Sultans. Amara Nayakas were military commanders. Vijayanagara kings gave them some regions to govern. These regions were called ‘Amara’.

The governing of these regions was done by the Amaranayaks. They collected taxes of different kinds from the famers, traders, artisans and big merchants. A big portion of the income was used for their personal needs. The other part was spent in maintaining horses and elephants. A small portion was also spent on maintaining temples and irrigation. Amaranayakas rendered military help to the kings of Vijayanagara. It was by using this military might that the kings brought the Southern Peninsula under their control.

Amaranayakas were to give the king tribute every year. They also had to visit the king and give him gifts to show their loyalty to him. To show that the king had power over them, he used to transfer amaranayakas to different places. Even then by the 17th century the amaranayakas became powerful and some of them started challenging the authority of the king. Some even established independent states. This caused the slow disintegration of Vijayanagara.

Question 25.
Who wrote Akbar Nama? Prepare a short note on it.
Answer:
Abul Fazl was the writer of Akbarnama. Abul was born and brought up in Agra. He was well- versed in Arabic, Persian, Greek Philosophy and Sufism. He was a scholarly debater and had independent thinking. He severely criticised the views of conservative ulamas. Akbar was attracted by these qualities of Abul Fazl and so he appointed him as his advisor and spokesman. Akbar’s intention was to release the nation from the control of orthodox ulamas. As a palace historian, Abul Fazl was able to formulate ideas related to the adminis¬tration. Akbar liked him very much.

Akbar Nama is divided into three books of which the first two are chronicles. The third book is Akbari. The first two volumes ! contain the history of mankind from Adam to S one celestial cycle of Akbar’s life. The second volume closes in the forty-sixth regnal years of Akbar. The objective of Akbar Nama I was to provide a detailed account of Akbar’s regin. At fhe same time it gives a detailed picture of all aspects of Akbar’s empire – geographic, social, administrative and cultural without reference to chronology.

Question 26.
Explain any two early struggles of Mahatma Gandhi.
Answer:
Champaran Satyagraha-1917- Bihar-Indigo peasents Kheda peasent satyagraha -1918 – Gujarath Ahmedabad mill strike -1918 – Gujarath

Answer any 2 questions from 27 to 29. Each carries 5 scored. (2× 5 = 10)

Question 27.
Analyse the causes for the rise of Megadha as a powerful Mahajanapada.
Answer:
Fertile land, Iron deposits, use of elephants in war, Ganges and its tributaries, powerful rulers, strategic position of capitals.

Question 28.
Explain the main teaching of Buddha.
Answer:

1. Entire world is animated
2. Ahimsa
3. Cycle of karma
4. Asceticism
5. Penance

Question 29.
Assess the main principles of Virashaiva tradition in Karnataka.
Answer:
From 9th century to the 13 century, some powerful Chola Kings ruled the country. They sup¬ported the Brahmin-Piety traditions. They made land-gifts. They built Vishnu and Siva temples. It was they who built some of the most imposing Siva temples at Chidambaram, Thanjavur and Gangaikonda Cholapuram. Some very beautiful bronze idols of Siva were also made at this period. It was the Nayanars who gave encouragement to the sculptors. The Chola Kings encouraged the Nayanars and Azhvars. There were some economic motives behind this. It was the Vellalar farmers who made the economic base for the Chola rule. Naturally the rulers wanted the support of the Vellalar farmers, who respected Azhvars and Nayanars. That is why the Chola Kings gave their full support to the Azhvars and Nayanars.

Chola kings often claimed divine support. They tried to proclaim their glory by building huge and beautiful temples. These temples were adorned with idols made of stone and metals. The tried to translate the dreams of the popular poets of the hymns into reality. The Kings also encouraged recitations of the Saiva hymns in Tamil in their temples. They also took the initiative to collect these hymns and make it into a book form (Thevaram). The Chola King named Paranthakan I, got the metallic idols of Appar, Sanbandhar and Sundarar made and they were placed in a Siva Temple. An inscription dated 945 shows this. During festivals, the idols were carried in processions.

In the 12th century, a new pious movement came up in Karnataka. A Brahmin named Basavanna (1106-1168) was the leader of this movement. Virashaiva Movement is also called Lingayat. In the beginning Basavanna was a believer of Jainism. He had also served as a minister under King Bijala of Chalukya. Because of serious differences of opinion, Basavanna decided to quit Jainism and with his son-in-law he formed the Virashaiva Movement. His followers were called Virasaivas or Lingayats.

Tantric is connected with the adoration of Devis (goddesses). Rituals of this kind were in existence in many parts of the subcontinent. Both men and women could participate in them. When these traditions were carried out, differences of Jati and Varna were ignored. In other words, there was no discrimination of gender, Varna or Jati in Tantric. The Tantric ideas greatly influenced Saivism and Buddhism. The followers of Tantric rituals ignored the authority of the Vedas. They tried to uphold their favourite God Vishnu or Siva. They were in conflict with the principles of Buddhism and Jainism.

Answer any 2 questions from 30 to 32. Each carries 8 scores. (2 × 8 = 16)

Question 30.
Explain the main features of Harappan town planning based on the following hints:
• Citadel
• Lower Town
• Great Bath
• Domestic architecture
Answer:
History has left behind a number of evidences that Harappan civilization was an urban civili zation.
The greatest site of Harappan civilization is Mohenjo Daro. This was discovered after Harappa. It is from Mohenjo Daro that evidences of town planning, dwellings and seals of the Harappan civilization were discovered. This big city is situated in the Larkana District of Sindh on the shore of River Sindhu. The meaning of Mohenjo Daro is “The Mound of the Dead”. The excavations done here brought to light the remains of a well planned city. This city was divided into two parts – The Citadel and the Lower Town.

The Citadel : Citadel is a small manmade platform. It is located on the western side of the city. Citadel is the highest part of the city. There are two reasons for the unusual height of the citadel. First of all it is built on a higher ground. Secondly its buildings are constructed on the bricks made of earth. The citadel is protected by building walls around it. There are many big buildings in the citadel. They have been used various special purposes. The main buildings of the citadel are The Warehouse, and the Great Bath.

The Warehouse : The biggest building of Mohenjo Daro is its warehouse of bam. The lower part of this building is built with bricks. It can still be seen. The upper portion of the warehouse is made of wood. With the passage of most of it is ruined. The warehouse was used to store the leftover food grains.

The Great Bath : The most important structure in the citadel of Mohenjo Daro is the Great Bath. It is in rectangular shape. The pond is in the yard which is surrounded by corridors on all four sides. To get into the pond there are steps on the northern and southern sides. The bottom of the pond is made watertight using bricks and lime paste. This prevents the water from seeping down and making the pond dry. There are rooms on 3 sides of the pond. There was a big well in one of the rooms.

The water for the pond was brought from this well. There were provisions for filling the pond with water and to make the dirty water flow out into drains. Historians think that the Great Bath had a religious importance. They think that this Great Bath was used for ritual baths. The Great Bath shows the importance the Harappans gave to cleanliness. It also shows their engineering and technical skills.

Lower Town : Domestic Architecture: The Lower Town was just below the citadel. This was also protected by walls. People lived here. ‘ Here we can see good examples of domestic architecture. The houses were made of bricks. The houses were ordered in the Grid System. The houses were built along both sides of the road, with adequate space between houses. The doors and windows were opened to face the central yard. It is believed that the yard was used for cooking and also weaving.

The houses did not have doors and windows that faced the street. All the houses had bathrooms. They were paved with bricks. The drainage system was excellent. Houses were different in size. There were single room and double room houses. There were also houses with more than two storeys. To get to the top stories there were staircases.

Big houses had wells. It was dug in a room in such a way that even outsiders could draw water from it. Experts estimate that Mohenjo Daro had some 700 wells. Houses were built on raised platforms. The settlements were well planned. The bricks were made to certain specifications. The same kind of bricks was used in most constructions.

The drainage system: The drainage system in the Harappan citiep was excellent. The drain of each house was linked to the drainage canal outside. The drainage canals were covered with bricks or sheets of rock. In some places they covered the drainage canals with limestone slabs. It was possible to clean the canals by removing the top coverings. There were manholes in the public drainage.

It is believed that the drainage was made first and then came the houses. The drainage system shows the engineering skill of the Harappan people.-It shows they had a town administration. It also shows how much importance they gave to hygiene and health. The drainage system was not limited to big cities. Even the settlements in places like Lothal had drainages.

Question 31.
Prepare an essay on the revolt of 1857 held in Awadh.
Hints:
• Importance of Awadh
• Grievances of the Talukdars
• Grievances of the Peasants
• Grievances of the Sepoys
Answer:
The taking over of Awadh by the British made I; the local kings, talukdars, peasants and sepoys very unhappy and angry. By taking over Awadh, not only the Nawab but also many talukdars lost their jobs. The talukdars had many estates and fortresses in the villages of Awadh. They had been in control of these lands for generations. They had much power in the villages. They also used to keep small army units with them. Some even had armies numbering up to 12,000 soldiers. Even the small ones had 200 footmen.

The British refused to accept the autonomy and authority of the talukdars. Soon after they took over Awadh, they dispersed the armies of the talukdars and destroyed their fortresses. The land tax system also was not liked by the talukdars. The British enforced the new tax system in 1856. This was called the Summary Settlement of 1856. This was enforced with the concept that the talukdars had no permanent ownership of the land. The British saw them as encroachers who got the ownership of the land using all kinds cheating and even force.

The British wanted to avoid the talukdars and make settlements with the real owners of the land. They thought this would reduce exploitation of the farmers and increase the government’s income. But in reality none of these happened. The officials soon realized that the tax imposed on the farmers was much more than their capacity to pay. In short the Summary Settlement was a failure. It satisfied neither the farmers nor the talukdars.

As talukdars lost their positions, their social status was lost. The relations between them and the farmers were ruined. Before the take¬over by the British there was cordiality between the talukdars and the farmers. Although the talukdars were strict, they often behaved like the guardians of peasants. They helped peasants in their needs. They also gave peasants loans during festivals. Peasants also showed loyalty to talukdars. But the coming of the British spoiled all these. The farmers got no consideration from the British. The British charged them heavy tax and used strict methods to collect it. During crop failure, or times of trouble, or feasts, the British never helped the peasants.

The ousted talukdars wanted to get back their lost estates and power. They became the strongest enemies of the British. In places like Awadh, where the revolt was the worst, the talukdars and the farmers were in the forefront of the revolt. Many of the talukdars were loyal to the Nawab. They joined Begum Hazrat Mahal, the wife of the Nawab, in her fight against the British. Even in failure, the talukdars did not abandon the Begum. The taking over of Awadh by the British made the sepoys also unhappy. Many o f.them were from Awadh itself. They did not like the idea of their birthplace getting into the hands of the British.

The Sepoys had many problems and complaints. They had small salaries. The places they had to stay and the food they got were not of good quality. It was also difficult to get leave. The chances of promotion were limited. They did not get any foreign service allowance for working outside India. The journeys across the seas were not liked by many, because some religions prohibited such journeys. They also were unhappy because the British did not allow many of them to wear headcovers and also beards.

Question 32.
Analyse the major struggles for independence held under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi. Areas to considered:
• Non-Cooperation Movement
• Salt Satyagraha
Answer:
Mahatma Gandhi made India’s national move-ment into a mass movement. The Non-coop-eration movement was the first mass move-ment organised by Gandhiji in India under In-dian National Congress. He hoped that by coupling non-cooperation with Khilafat, India’s two major religious communities, Hindus and Muslims, could collectively bring an end to colonial rule.

As part of the Non-cooperation movement students stopped going to schools and colleges run by the government. The working class went on strike in many towns and cities. The countryside was seething with discontent too. Hill tribes in northen Andhra violated forest laws. Farmers in Awadh did not pay taxes. Peasant in Kumaun refused to carry loads for colonial officials. Peasants, workers, and others interpreted and acted upon the call to ‘non cooperate’ with colonial rule in ways that best suited their interests, rather than conform to the dictates laid down from above.

It entailed denial, renunciation and self discipline. It was training for self rule. As a consequence of the Non-cooperation movement the British Raj was shaken to its foundations for the first time since the Revolt of 1857. Then in February 1922, a group of peasants attacked and torched a police station in the hamlet of Chaurichaura in the United provinces. Several constables perished in the conflagration. This act of non violence prompted Gandhiji to call off the altogether. During the non cooperation movement thousands of Indians were put in jail.

Another mass movement organised by Gandhiji under the leadership of the Congress was the Salt Satyagraha. Mahatma Gandhi announced that he would lead a march to break one of the most widely disliked laws in British India, which gave the state a monopoly in the manufacture and sale of salt. His picking on the salt monopoly was another illustration of Gandhiji’s tactical wisdom.

On 12 March 1930, Gandhiji began walking from his ashram at Sabarmati towards the ocean. He reached his destination three weeks later, making a fistful of salt as he did and thereby making himself criminal in the eyes of the law. Meanwhile, parallel salt marches were being conducted in other parts of the country.

This event brought Mahatma Gandhi to world attention. It was the first nationalist activity in which women participated in large numbers. It was the salt march which forced upon the British the realisation that their Raj would not last for ever, and that they would have to devolve some power to the Indians. By the Gandhi-lrwin pact of 1931 Gandhiji called off the civil disobedience movement and agreed to participate in the second round table conference. As a result all prisoners were released and salt manufacture was allowed along the coast.

Teachers recommend solving Kerala Syllabus Plus Two History Previous Year Question Papers and Answers Pdf March 2024 to improve time management during exams.

Kerala Plus Two History Previous Year Question Paper March 2024

Question 1.
Match column ‘A’ with appropriate items from Column ‘B’.

A	B
Rani Lakshmibai	Delhi
Kunwar Singh	Kanpur
Bahadur Shah	Jhansi
Nana Sahib	Arrah

Answer:

A	B
Rani Lakshmibai	Jhansi
Kunwar Singh	Arrah
Bahadur Shah	Delhi
Nana Sahib	Kanpur

Answer any 4 questions from 2 to 7. Each carries 1 score. (4 × 1 = 4)

Question 2.
Who was the founder of the Khalsa Panth?
a) Guru Nanak
b) GuruArjan
c) Guru Gobind Singh
d) Guru Tegh Bahadur
Answer:
c) Guru Gobind Singh

Question 3.
Identify the author of Padmavat:
a) Kabir
b) Malik Muhammad Jayasi
c) Ramananda
d) Baba Farid
Answer:
b) Malik Muhammad Jayasi

Question 4.
Who is popularly known as ‘Garib Nawaz?
a) Khwaja Muinuddin
b) Muhammad bin Tughlaq
c) Akbar
d) Shaikh Nizamuddin
Answer:
a) Khwaja Muinuddin

Question 5.
Which of the following group is connected with the Vachanas?
a) The Alvars
b) The Sikhs
c) The Nayanars
d) The Virashaivas
Answer:
d) The Virashaivas

Question 6.
The Code of Conduct associated with temples in ancient Kerala:
a) Kaccam
b) Sabhai
c) Viruti
d) Noduttal
Answer:
a) Kaccam

Question 7.
Point out the Travancore ruler who defeated the Dutch in the battle of Colachal.
a) Kunjali Marakkar
b) Sakthan Thampuran
c) Marthanda Varma
d) Tipu Sultan
Answer:
c) Marthanda Varma

Question 8.
Arrange the following in chronological order: (4 x 1 = 4)
♦ The Kurichiya Revolt
♦ The Pazhassi Revolt
♦ Temple Entry Proclamation
♦ Kundara Proclamation
Answer:

1. The Pazhassi Revolt (1793-1805)
2. Kundara Proclamation (1809)
3. The Kurichiya Revolt (1812)
4. Temple Entry Proclamation (1936)

Question 9.
Mark the following places on the outline map of ancient India provided:(4 × 1 = 4)
♦ Bodh Gaya
♦ Sarnath
♦ Sanchi
♦ Amaravati
Answer:

1. BodhGaya
2. Sarnath
3. Sanchi
4. Amaravati

Answer any 8 questions from 10 to 18. Each carries 2 scores. (8 × 2 = 16)

Question 10.
Why were Stupas built?
Answer:
Stupas are mounds where the relics of Buddha were buried. Asoka distributed the relics of Buddha to every important town and ordered to construct stupas over them.

Question 11.
Define Ziyarat and Qawwali.
Answer:

1. Ziyarat-Pilgrimage to the tomb shrine of a sufiguru.
2. Qawwali – Performance of music during Ziyarat.

Question 12.
Write a short note on Milkiyat.
Answer:
Personal land of the Zamindar. It was cultivated for the private use of Zamindars.

Question 13.
Define the terms jama and hasil.
Answer:

1. Jama-Assessed tax
2. Hasil – Collected tax

Question 14.
Who were jotedars?
Answer:
Jotedars were rich peasants in Bengal who controlled local trade and money lending.

Question 15.
Name the two hill folks who lived around the Rajmahal Hills during the early 19th century.
Answer:

1. Paharias
2. Santhals

Question 16.
Mention any two rumours connected with the Revolt of 1857.
Answer:

1.  New cartridges were greased with the fat of cow and pig.
2. The British mixed the bone dust of cows and pigs into the atta sold in the market.
3. The British is conspiring to destroy the caste and religion of the Hindus and Muslims.

Question 17.
Name any two pictures associated with the Revolt of 1857.
Answer:

1. Relief of Lucknow
2. InMemoriam
3. Justice
4. Miss wheeler
5. Rani Lakshmi Bai
6. The clemency of canning
7. Execution of Mutineers in Peshawar
8. The British Lion’s vengeance on the Bengal Tiger.

Question 18.
Name any two Tinais mentioned in the Sangam poems.
Answer:

1. Kurinchi
2. Mullai
3. Palai
4. Marutham
5. Neital

Answer any 2 questions from 19 to 21. Each carries 3 scores. (2 × 3 = 6)

Question 19.
Mention any three causes for the decline of Harappan Civilization.
Answer:

1. Deforestation
2. Climatic change
3. Excessive floods
4. Over use of the land
5. Shifting the course/ drying up of the river

Question 20.
Name any three chronicles of the Mughal period.
Answer:

1. Akbar Nama
2. Badshah Nama
3. Humayun Nama
4. AlemgirNama

Question 21.
Point out the three early local campaigns of Mahatma Gandhi.
Answer:

1. Champaran Satyagraha -1917-Bihar
2. Kheda Satyagraha-1918-Gujarath
3. Ahmedabad Mill Strike -1918 – Gujarath

Answer any 4 questions from 22 to 26. Each carries 4 scores. (4 × 4 = 16)

Question 22.
What are the limitations of inscriptional evidences?
Answer:

1. Technical limitations: letters are very faintly engraved.
2. Inscriptions may be damaged or letters missing.
3. Not sure about the exact meaning of the words used in the inscriptions.
4. Not all have been deciphered, published and translated.
5. Many have not survived the ravage of time.
6. Significance of the recorded events.
7. Project the perspective of the person who commisioned them.

Question 23.
Explain the ideal occupations of four varnas
Answer:

1. Brahmanas – Study and teach vedas, perform sacrifices and give and receive gifts.
2. Kshatriyas – Engage in warfare, protect people and administer justice, study the vedas, get sacrifices performed and give gifts.
3. Vaishyas – Engage in agriculture, pastoralism and trade
4. Shudras – Serve the three higher varnas.

Question 24.
Describe the Amara Nayaka System existed in the Vijayanagara Empire.
Answer:
In Vijayanagara Empire there was the system of “Amara Nayaka”. This system had many Of the features of the “Iqta system’ of the Delhi. Sultans. Amara Nayakas were military commanders. Vijayanagara kings gave them some regions to govern. These regions were called ‘Amara’.

The governing of these regions was done by the Amaranayaks. They collected taxes of different kinds from the famers, traders, artisans and big merchants. A big portion of the income was used for their personal needs. The other part was spent in maintaining horses and elephants. A small portion was also spent on maintaining temples and irrigation. Amaranayakas rendered military help to the kings of Vijayanagara.

It was by using this military might that the kings brought the Southern Peninsula under their control. Amaranayakas were to give the king tribute every year. They also had to visit the king and give him gifts to show their loyalty to him. To show that the king had power over them, he used to transfer amaranayakas to different places. Even then by the 17th century the amaranayakas became powerful and some of them started challenging the authority of the king. Some even established independent states. This caused the slow disintegration of Vijayanagara.

Question 25.
Why did the Taluqdars of Awadh revolt against the British?
Answer:
The governing of these regions was done by the Amaranayaks. They collected taxes of different kinds from the famers, traders, artisans and big merchants. A big portion of the income was used for their personal needs. The other part was spent in maintaining horses and elephants. A small portion was also spent on maintaining temples and irrigation. Amaranayakas rendered military help to the kings of Vijayanagara. It was by using this military might that the kings brought the Southern Peninsula under their control.

Amaranayakas were to give the king tribute every year. They also had to visit the king and give him gifts to show their loyalty to him. To show that the king had power over them, he used to transfer amaranayakas to different places. Even then by the 17th century the amaranayakas became powerful and some of them started challenging the authority of the king. Some even established independent states. This caused the slow disintegration of Vijayanagara.

Question 26.
How did the partition of India affect women?
Answer:
The British wanted to avoid the talukdars and make settlements with the real owners of the land. They thought this would reduce exploitation of the farmers and increase the government’s income. But in reality none of these happened. The officials soon realized that the tax imposed on the farmers was much more than their capacity to pay. In short the Summary Settlement was a failure. It satisfied neither the farmers nor the talukdars.

As the talukdars lost their positions, their social status was lost. The relations between them and the farmers were ruined. Before the take-over by the British, there was cordiality between the talukdars and the farmers. Although the talukdars were strict, they often behaved like the guardians of the peasants. They helped the peasants in their needs. They also gave the peasants loans during festivals. The peasants also showed loyalty to the talukdars. But the coming of the British spoiled all these. The peasants got no consideration from the British.

The British charged them heavy tax and used strict methods to collect it. During crop failure, or times of trouble, or feasts, the British never helped the peasants. The ousted talukdars wanted to get back their lost estates and power. They became the strongest enemies of the British. In places like Awadh, where the revolt was the worst, the talukdars and the farmers were in the forefront of the revolt. Many of the talukdars were loyal to the Nawab.

They joined Begum Hazrat Mahal, the wife of the Nawab, in her fight against the British. Even in failure, the talukdars did not abandon the Begum. The taking over of Awadh by the British made the sepoys also unhappy. Many o f them were from Awadh itself. They did not like the idea of their birthplace getting into the hands of the British.

Historians have analyzed the feelings of the common people during and after the Partition. Many have written about the terrible experiences of many women. The worst victims of the Partition were women. Many of them were raped. Many were kidnapped and sold. They were forced to live a new life with strangers in a strange land. Somehow many of them suffered indescribable difficulties. But some adjusted with the new situation.

The governments of India and Pakistan did not bother to realise the complexities of human relations. Both governments decided to exchange women belonging to their respective countries – the Pakistani women in India had to go to Pakistan and Indian women in Pakistan had to come to India. Following this, a countrywide search was made to locate the women abducted frofri both sides. Those who were found were sent back to their countries. Nobody bothered to seek the opinion of the women involved in this exchange. Thus women were denied to take decisions about their own lives. According to statistics, a total of 30,000 women were rescued this way – 22,000 women from India and 8000 women from Pakistan. This rescue operation lasted until 1954.

Answer any 2 questions from 27 to 29. Each carries 5 scores. (2 × 5 = 10)

Question 27.
How did the Harappan people procure raw materials for craft production?
Answer:
They collected their raW materials from the subcontinent. They used the following strategies:
i) Establishment of Settlements: They established settlements in the areas where raw materials were easily available. For example they made settlements in places like Nageswar and Balakotfrom where they could get shells. They made settlement in Shortughai (Afghanistan) where lapis lazuli were easily available. They made settlements in Lothal where carnelian and limestone were easily got.

SETTLEMENTS	RAW MATERIALS
Nageswar, Balakot	Shells
Shortughai	Lapis lazuli (Afghanistan)
Lothal	Carnelian (from Bharuch) Limestone (From South Rajasthan and North Gujarat) Copper (From the Khetri mines in Rajasthan)

Question 28.
Why did Magadha become the first among the Sixteen Mahajanapadas?
Answer:
There are many reasons that made Magadha overcome its enemies and become number one. They are the following:

1. Magadha was a fertile region. The fertile silt helped agriculture and increased production. They were able to produces surpluses.
2. There were iron ore mines close to the capital and Magadha controlled them. They could make high class weapons using iron from these mines.
3. An essential part of the Magadhan army was elephants. They were plenty in the forests of Magadha. Magadha used elephants on a large scale in battles.
4. Ganges and its tributaries helped the Magadhans to travel quickly and cheaply and this helped them a lot.
5. Rajagaha, the first capital of Magadha, and Pataliputra, the second capital, were situated in strategic places. They offered Magadha protection from outside attacks.
6. Policies of powerful rulers like Ajatasatru, Bimbisara and Mahapadma Nanda and their ministers.

Question 29.
The Mughal rule contributed very much to the cultural plurality of India. Elucidate.
Answer:
Age of cultural synthesis:- The Indian cultural tradition had synthesized with Turkish and Iranian culture. This blend can be seen in architecture, painting, language, literature, music, customs and manners. Persian influence can be seen in literature and language too. The usages and words from Arabic and Persian languages enriched various Indian languages. Many Indian texts like Ramayana and Mahabharata were translated into Persian. This synthesis, spread to other fields like dress, flood, festivals, etc.

Answer any 2 questions from 30 to 32. Each carries 8 scores. (2 × 8 = 16)

Question 30.
‘Mohenjodaro was a planned urban centre.’ Substantiate.
Hints:
♦ Citadel and lower town
♦ The Great bath
♦ Drainage system
♦ Domestic Architecture
Answer:
Mohenjo Daro is the most important site of the Harappan Culture. This was discovered after Harappa. It was from Mohenjo Daro that details regarding town planning, houses and seals of the Harappan Culture were got. This big city is situated in the Larkana District of Sind, on the shores of Sindhu River. The word Mohenjo Daro means the Mound of the Dead. The excavations made here brought to light the remains of a great city. The city was divided into two: The citadel and the Lower Town.

The Citadel (Fortress) is on a manmade platform. This is built on the western side of the city. This is the highest part of the city. There are two reasons for its height. Firstly, it is built on higher ground. Secondly, the buildings are put up on a platform made of earthen bricks. The fortress is protected with walls around it. Therefore it looks different from the Lower Town. In the fortress, there are tall buildings. They are public buildings. They were used for special public activities. The Warehouse and the Great Bath were the main structures in the fortress.

The Warehouse was the biggest building in Mohenjo Daro. The bottom part of the Warehouse is made of bricks. They still remain there. The upper part was built with wood. It got destroyed long ago. The Warehouse was used to store the left-over grain.

The most important structure in the fortress (citadel) of Mohenjo Daro is the Great Bath. It is in rectangular shape. The pond is in the yard which is surrounded by corridors on all four sides. To get into the pond there are steps on the northern and southern sides. The bottom of the pond is made watertight using bricks and lime paste. This prevents the water from seeping down and making the pond dry.

There are rooms on 3 sides of the pond. There was a big well in one of the rooms. The water for the pond was brought from this well. There were provisions for filling the pond with water and to make the dirty water flow out into drains. Historians think that the Great Bath had a religious importance. They think that this Great Bath was used for ritual baths.

The Great Bath shows the importance the Harappans gave to cleanliness. It also shows their engineering and technical skills. The plight of Harappa was really bad. Although Harappa was the first site to be discovered, thieves took away all he bricks. This sad plight was noticed by Alexander Cunningham. He pointed out that a huge amount of bricks was taken away. Thus most of the ancient buildings were lost. But Mohenjo Daro was better protected.

Most Harappan settlements had two parts – a higher western part and a lower eastern part. The western part is called the citadel or fortress. It was protected by walls. But there are some differences in some places. In Lothal, the citadel had no walls around. But it was built very high.

The Lower Town was just below the citadel. This was also protected by walls. People lived here. Here we can see good examples of domestic architecture. The houses were made of bricks. The houses were ordered in the Grid System. The houses were built along both sides of the road, with adequate space between houses. The doors and windows were opened to face the central yard. It is believed that the yard was used for cooking and also weaving.

The houses did not have doors and windows that faced the street. All the houses had bathrooms. They were paved with bricks. The drainage system was excellent. Houses were different in size. There were single room and double room houses. There were also houses with more than two storeys. To get to the top stories there were staircases.

Big houses had wells. It was dug in a room in such a way that even outsiders could draw water from it. Experts estimate that Mohenjo Daro had some 700 wells.Houses were built on raised platforms. The settlements were well planned. The bricks were made to certain specifications. The same kind of bricks were used in most constructions.

The drainage system in the Harappan cities was excellent. The drain of each house was linked to the drainage canal outside. The drainage canals were covered with bricks or sheets of rock. In some places they covered the drainage canals with limestone slabs. It was possible to clean the canals by removing the top coverings. There were manholes in the public drainage. It is believed that the drainage was made first and then came the houses. The drainage system shows the engineering skill of the Harappan people. It shows they had a town administration. It also shows how much importance they gave to hygiene and health. The drainage system was not limited to big cities. Even the settlements in places like Lothal had drainages.

Question 31.
Prepare an essay on Albiruni based on the following hints:
♦ Kitab-ul-Hind
♦ Barriers faced by Al Biruni
♦ Description of the caste system
Answer:
Al-Biruni was born at Khwariezm in Uzbekistan. Khwariezm was an important centre of knowledge and so he got the best education possible. He was a linguist – a scholar in many languages. He knew Syriac, Arabic, Persian, Hebrew and Sanskrit. He was not familiar with Greek. But he had read the books of Plato and other Geek philosophers through Arabic translations. In 1017 Sultan Mahmud Ghazni attacked Khwarezm.

He made many people prisoners and took them to Ghazni. Al-Biruni was one of them. Although he came to Ghazni as a prisoner, he began to like the place. He entered the services of Mahmud Ghazni and remained in Ghazni until he died at the age of 70. It was in Ghazni that Al- Biruni developed an interest in India. Sanskrit work on astronomy,

mathematics, and medicine, had been translated into Arabic from the eighteenth century on wards. When the Punjab became a part of the Ghaznavid empire, contact with local popu¬lation helped to create an environment of mu¬tual trust and understanding. He spent years in the company of Brahmin priests and scholars, learning Sanskrit and studying religion and philosophical texts.

Al-Biruni’s Kitab-ul-Hind, written in Arabic, is simple and lucid. It is a voluminous text, di¬vided into 80 chapters on subjects such as religion, philosophy, festivals, astronomy, al¬chemy, manners and customs, social life, weights and measures, iconography, laws and metrology. He adopted a distinctive structure in each chapter. He began the chapter with a question. Then a description was made on the basis of Sanskrit tradition. The chapter was concluded with a comparison with other cultures.

Some present-day scholars argued that this almost geometric structure, remark¬able for its precision and predictability. It re¬flects his mathematical orientation. = Al-Biruni was conscious of the problems involved in understanding strange countries. He has mentioned three things that proved difficult:

a) The first problem was language – Sanskrit was quite different from Arabic and Persian languages. It was not easy to translate the concepts from one language into another.
b) The second problem was the differences in religions and rituals.
c) The third problem was the secluded people who were interested only in their things. They looked at foreigners with suspicion and were not willing to mingle with them freely.

Al-Biruni accepted the Class distinctions as put forward by Brahmins. But he did not approve of the untouchability practised by them. He said that things that were impure would always try to get back their purity and succeed. For example, the sun purifies the air. The salt in sea-water prevents it from getting polluted. Without this natural purification, life would be impossible on this earth. He argued that untouchability is against natural laws.

The ideas of Al,-Biruni exercised powerful influence in the study of Sanskrit books. The rules regarding Varna System were formulated favouring the Brahmins. In real life Varna was not so strict. For example, the antyaja (who were born outside the Varna System) were expected to work for the agriculturists and zamindars for small wages. Although they were socially suppressed, they were included in the economic activities.

Question 32.
Analyse the following movements held under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi.
♦ Non-Cooperation Movement
♦ Salt Satyagraha
♦ Quit India Movement
Answer:
The Non-Cooperation Movement was the first strong moment of Gandhi against the British. It was part of Gandhi’s concept of non-violence. In the beginning he co-operated with the British. But some developments in 1919 made Gandhi change his attitude. The Rowlett Acts, Jalian Wala Bagh tragedy, the Khilafat Movement etc. were some of them. The Non-Cooperation Movement had three aims:

1. Find a solution to the Punjab problem.
2. Solve the Khilafat issue.
3. Gain swaraj.

The exhortations of Gandhiji had great effect. Students boycotted government institutions. Thousands of workers in cities and towns went on strike. Official records show that in 1921 there were 396 strikes involving 6 Iakh workers. 7 lakh working days were lost. In the Non-Cooperation Movement, women and farmers took active part. Many women came out of their purdah to take part in the protests.

1. The Movement spread even to villages. The forest dwellers in Andhra Pradesh broke the forest laws. Farmers of Awadh and Bihar took part in the struggle by refusing to pay taxes. The farmers of Kumaon (Uttarakhand) refused to carry the goods of the Colonial officers.
2. Often these protests were done against the instructions of regional leaders. Instead of taking orders from higher authorities, they refused to cooperate with the Colonial administration.

The Chauri-Chaura incident was big jolt to the Movement. Gandhi ‘was forced to stop the Movement. Violence in Chauri-Chaura occurred when police fired at a procession of farmers. The enraged farmers attacked the Chauri-Chaura police station and burnt it. 22 policemen were killed. This shocked Gandhiji. He realized that people were not yet ready to fight using non-violence, On 22 February 1922. he decided to withdraw the Non-Cooperation Movement. He said that no provocation would justoy The killing of the 22 policemen.

The Non-Cooperation Movement was a significant milestone. In the biography of Mahatma Gandhi, Louis Fischer (American) says that the Non-Cooperation Movement was big turning point in the history of India and also the life of Gandhi. It combined denial, sacrifice and self-control. Fischer says it was some kind of training for autonomy. The Lahore session of Indian national congress decided to start the civil disobedience movement under the leadership of Gandhi. Gandhi planned a new way of struggle against the British.

This was the Civil Disobedience Movement. He said he would start it by breaking the Salt Law. Salt Law was one of the laws that Indians hated most. This law made the making and selling of salt a government monopoly. Although each household needed salt, the government did not allow anybody to make it even for personal use. People were forced to buy salt at a high price from shops. Government also doubled the salt tax. The anger of the people increased. Gandhi knew that salt tax was more harmful to people than other taxes.

Gandhi’s move to breach the salt law was a strategic one. He knew by this he could make the people fight against the government. On 12 March 1930, Gandhiji began walking from his ashram at Sabarmati towards ocean. He reached the destination three weeks later, making fistful of salt as he did and there by making himself a criminal in the eyes of the law.

Meanwhile, parallel salt marches were conducted in other parts of India. Across large parts of India peasants breached the hated colonial forest laws. In some towns, factory workers went on strike while lawyers boycotted British courts and students refuse to attend government run-education institutions. Nearly 6000 Indians including Gandhiji were arrested.

The progress of Salt March can also be traced from another source. It is ‘Time’ an American News Magazine. In its first report ‘Time’ was doubtful whether the Salt March reach its destination. It claimed that Gandhiji sank to the ground at the end of the second day’s walking. But within a week ‘Time’ was forced to change its mind. Later they looked up on Gandhiji as a saint and statement. Salt march was notable for three reasons.

1. First, it was this event that brought Ma-hatma Gandhi to world attention. It was widely covered by the European and American press.
2. Second it was the first national activity in which women participated in large numbers.
3. Third, it was the salt march which forced up on the British the realisation that the raj would not last forever.

The British government continued a series of Round Table Conferences in London. The first Round Table Conference was held in 1930. Gandhiji or any prominent Congress leaders did not participate in the conference. Gandhiji was released from jail in 1931 and the following month had several meetings with the victory. This led to the Gandhi Irwin Pact by the terms of which Gandhiji withdrawn.

After the failure of Cripps Mission, Gandhiji decided to start his third phase of struggle against British rule. This is known as Quit India Movement. It started in August 1942. The immediate cause of this Movement was the failure of the Cripps Mission. Gandhi demanded that the British should leave India peacefully and in a timely manner.

Congress accepted that idea. On 8 August 1942, Congress met at Bombay and passed a resoluion asking the British to quit India. The resolution made it clear that to make the British go away, a struggle would be organized under Gandhi. This struggle is known as Quit India Movement. Gandhi asked the people to come into the open with the slogan ‘Do or Die’.

a) It was a popular movement. Thousands of ordinary people came with their support. Youths were ready to quit colleges and go to jail.
b) It showed the willingness of the people to suffer for freedom and to go to any extent to achieve freedom.
c) It made the British realize that their days were numbered. It forced them to negotiate the transfer of power.
d) It brought world’s attention to the Indian struggle for freedom.

Teachers recommend solving Kerala Syllabus Plus Two Geography Previous Year Question Papers and Answers Pdf Board Model Paper 2021 to improve time management during exams.

Kerala Plus Two Geography Board Model Paper 2021 with Answers.

Maximum : 60 Scores
Time : 2 Hours
Cool-ff time : 15 minutes

Answer the following questions from 1 to 39 upto a maximum score of 60. (6 × 1 = 6)

Question 1.
The concept of Human Development was introduced by
a) Dr. Mahbub-UI-Haq
b) Thomas Malthus
c) Griffith Taylor
d) Semple
Answer:
a) Dr. Mahbub-UI-Haq

Question 2.
The name of farming operation in which farmers spe-cialize in vegetables only is known as
a) Jhuming
b) Viticulture
c) Truck Farming
d) Milpa
Answer:
b) Viticulture

Question 3.
Identify the mining method to mine the mineral ore from deep below the surface.
a) Open-Cast Mining
b) In-situ Mining
c) Open Pit Mining
d) Underground Mining
Answer:
d) Underground Mining

Question 4.
Urban agglomeration received the largest number of in-migrants in India.
a) Chennai
b) Varanasi
c) Greater Mumbai
d) Patna
Answer:
c) Greater Mumbai

Question 5.
The highest literate state in India
a) Kerala
b) Maharashtra
c) Tamil Nadu
d) West Bengal
Answer:
a) Kerala

Question 6.
An example of metallic mineral is
a) Mica
b) Iron
c) Graphite
d) Limestone
Answer:
b) Iron

Questions from 7 to 14 carry 2 scores each. (8 × 2 = 16)

Question 7.
What is environmental determinism?
Answer:
Because of limited technical knowhow and primitive social conditions, the man-nature relations were, more or less, Nature determined. This human- environment relation is called by environmental determinism.

Question 8.
Mention the use of population pyramid.
Answer:
In a country the graph showing the proportional number of men and women of different ages is the population pyramid. Through this, the birth-death rates of various stages can also be seen.

Question 9.
Classify industries based on output.
Answer:
On the basis of products, industries are of two kinds:

1. Basic industries.
2. Consumer goods industries.

Question 10.
What are Quaternary activities?
Answer:
Services which need special knowledge and technical knowhow, and centred on research- development are called Quaternary Services. Examples: E-software engineers, doctors.

Question 11.
Define positive Balance of Trade.
Answer:
When in a country the export value is more than the import value, it will be called positive balance of trade.

Question 12.
Identify any two functions of an urban centre.
Answer:
Administration, transport, education, industry, mining, tourism (any 2).

Question 13.
What do you mean by life time migrant?
Answer:
When census is taken, if a person’s place of birth recorded there is different from his actual place of birth, he will be known as life time migrant.

Question 14.
Write any two local names of hamlet settlements in India.
Answer:
Panna, para, palli, nagla, dhani (any 2).

Questions from 15 to 25 cary 3 scores each. (11 × 3 = 33)

Question 15.
Answer the following:
a) Crude Birth Rate
b) Crude Death Rate
c) How Crude Birth Rate is calculated?
Answer:
a) Crude Birth Rate: In population, how many are born in 1000 people,is the Crude Birth Rate.
b) Crude Death Rate: In population, how many die in 1000 people is the Crude Death Rate.
CDR = Number of deaths/Tota’ population x 100
c) We can find the CBR by dividing the births in a certain period by the number of population and then multiplying it by 1000.
CDR = Total births/Population x 1000.

Question 16.
Write brief notes on the following:
a) Natural growth of population
b) Positive growth of population
c) Negative growth of population
Answer:
a) Natural Growth of Population : This is the difference in the births and deaths in a fixed period.
Natural Growth of Population = Births – Deaths.

b) Positive growth of population : If in a fixed period there are more births than deaths, there will be Natural Growth of Population there. If the incoming migrants are more than the outgoing migrants, there will be positive growth of population.

c) Negative growth of population : If, in a fixed period, births are less than deaths, there will be Negative growth of populatipn. If the outgoing migrants are more than the incoming migrants, then also there will be Negative growth of population.

Question 17.
List out the three basic aspects of Human Development.
Answer:

1.  The standard of living of the people in a country.
2. The opportunities before them.
3. The freedom they enjoy.

Question 18.
Write down the characteristic features of shifting cultivation.
Answer:
The trees in the forest are cut down and they are burned. The ash fertilizes the soil. A small area is cultivated. People use small, primitive tools. After some years, when the fertility of the soil is gone, the farmers move to another place and continue doing the same.

Question 19.
Name any three Trans-Continental Railways in the World.
Answer:

1. Trans-Siberian Railway
2. Australian Inter-Continental Railway
3. Trans Canadian Railway

Question 20.
Briefly explain the merits of Air transportation.
Answer:

1. The fastest means of transport.
2. Ideal for long distance travels and moving expensive goods.
3. The only way to reach places where there are no roads.
4. Today there is no place in the world which can’t be reached in 35 hours, maximum.

Question 21.
Write the branches and speech areas of Dravidian Languages.
Answer:

1. Southern Dravidian – Tamil Nadu, Karnataka,Kerala.
2. Mid-Dravidian – Andhra Pradesh, Madhya . Pradesh, Odisha, Maharashtra.
3. Northern Dravidian – Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh

Question 22.
Write the examples of ancient, medieval and modern towns in India.
Answer:

1. Ancient Cities – Varan asi, Prayag.
2. Medieval Cities – Delhi, Hyderabad
3. Modern Cities – Mumbai, Kolkata

Question 23.
Match the following :

A	B
Kharif	Wheat
Rabi	Vegetables
Zaid	Rice

Answer:

A	B
Kharif	Rice
Rabi	Wheat
Zaid	Vegetables

Question 24.
Irrigation is necessary for Indian Agriculture.’Explain.
Answer:

1. The uncertainties in the place and time of the monsoon rains, make irrigation essential.
2. A major part of the country does not get enough rain and is affected by droughts.
3. In the dry season without ensuring irrigation, cultivation is impossible.
4. For crops like paddy and sugar cane, a lot of water is needed.
5. Irrigation makes more than one crop possible in a year as with irrigation the agricultural period gets extended.
6. Seeds with high productivity need irrigation.

Question 25.
List out any three advantages of Non-conventional energy resources.
Answer:

1. Equitable distribution
2. Environmental friendly
3. Generally less expensive
4. Renewable (any three)

Questions from 26 to 35 carry 4 scores each. (10 × 4 = 40)

Question 26.
Explain the geographical factors influencing the distribufion of population.
Answer:
Geographical factors influencing the distribution of population:

1. Availability of Water: People prefer to live in places where plenty of clean water is available. Since water is needed for use at home, industry, agriculture and cattle, river basins are densely populated.
2. Landscape: People like to live in places that are flat or with slight slopes._Such places are more suitable for agriculture, making roads, build factories and residences. Places with hills and mountains have less people. People prefer plains to live.
3. Climatejn the places which are too cold, too hot, or where there is too much rainfall, the density of population will be less. It is not easy for man to live such places with harsh climatic conditions.
4. Soil: Fertile soil is essential for agriculture and related work. Soil that is fertile mixed with clay, sand and organic elements is the most suitable for agriculture.

Question 27.
Write the first two stages explained in Demographic Transition Theory.
Answer:

• First Stage in Demographic Transition theory:
  1. Birth and death rate very high.
  2. A lot of contagious diseases.
  3. Inequitable distribution of food.
  4. Increase in births made the population grow.
  5. Most of the people illiterate.
  6. Longevity very little.
  7. Technical knowhow very little.
• Second Stage in Demographic Transition theory:
  1. Although in the beginning, the birth rate is high, slowly it becomes less.’
  2. Death rate steadily decreased.
  3. Progress in the health-sanitation spheres.
  4. The different in birth-death rates increased the population.

Question 28.
Write a short note on the impacts of population change.
Answer:
A small rise in the population is good for the growing economic condition. But unlimited increases cause problems. Depletion of resources is the main problem. Decreasing population is also not good. Drastic lessening in the population will reduce the human resources of the country.

Question 29.
List out the features of Plantation Agriculture.
Answer:
Features of Plantation Agriculture

1. The main Plantation crops are tea, coffee, rubber, cocoa, coconut etc.
2. It needs large estates, high capital investment, technical management, scientific methods of agriculture, mono-crop specialty, and a large number of workers.
3. There should be good transport facilities to link the estates with factories.

Question 30.
Write down the advantages of Road transportation.
Answer:

1. Most suitable for short distances.
2. House-to-house service is possible.
3. Plays a big role in the entertainment, commerce, trade, etc. in the country.
4. Highways help in obstacle free vehicle movement.
5. Border roads help in uniting the people in the borders areas and ensure their safety and the needs of the army.

Question 31.
What are the consequences of migration? Explain any one.
Answer:
Consequences of Migration

1. Economic Consequences
2. Consequences on the population
3. Social Consequences
4. Environmental Consequences

Economic Consequences: The money sent by the migrants to their birthplace is very beneficial for the people there. The main source of income of many States is the remittance they get from the migrants abroad. This plays a big role in the foreign exchange reserves of the country. The money sent by internal migrants help in the growth of the places of their birth. Such money is used for house construction, marriage, education, agriculture, industries, etc.

Question 32.
Some of the causes of migration are given below. List them as ’Push’ and ’Puli’ factors of migration. (Poverty, Better wage profession, Earthquake, High health care facilities)
Answer:
Push Factors Pull Factors
Poverty Employment with high wages
Earthquake Better health care facilities

Question 33.
How does the Census of India classify the Indian towns on the basis of population size?
Answer:

1. Class 1 Cities: Population more than 1 lakh.
2. Class 2 Cities: 50,000 to 99,999 people
3. Class 3 Cities: 20,000 to 49,999 people
4. Class 4 Cities: 10,000 to 19,999 People
5. Class 5 Cities: 5000 to 9999 people
6. Class 6 Cities: Below 5000 people.

Note: Only if the population of a place is more than 25,000 we call it a city. Below 25,000 we call the place a town.

Question 34.
Write a short note on conservation strategies of mineral resources.
Answer:
Since solar, wind, tidal energy etc. is renewable we should use it more than the energy from traditional sources like coal, oil and natural gas. We should encourage recycling of metallic remains. We should look for substitutes for rare minerals. We also must reduce the export of strategic and rare minerals.

Question 35.
Write down the locational factors of Cotton Textile Industry.
Answer:

1. Availability of plenty of cotton, or nearness to cotton fields.
2. Favourable climate.
3. Availability of skilled labourers.
4. Possibility of importing machinery.
5. Possible for export or nearness to a port.
6. Availability of energy.

Questions from 36 to 38 carry 6 scores each. (3 × 6 = 18)

Question 36.
What is Human Development? Explain the pillars of Human Development.
Answer:
Human Development is the process which, considering various factors from healthy physical environment to social, political and economic freedom, increases the opportunities for acquiring education, health care, income empowerment etc. and deveLop opportunities for people to make their choice. The four components of human development are – Equity. ejstainabulit productivity and empowerment.
(a) Equity- Equity refers to making equal access to opportunities available to everybody. The opportunities available to people must be equal irreWedive of their gender, race, Income and in the Indian case, caste.

(b Sustainabllity- Sustainabulity means continuity in the availability of opportunities. To have sustainable human development, each generation must have the same opportunities. All environment, frianciel and human resources must be used keeping in mind the future. Mise of any of these resources will lead to fewer opportunities for future generations.

(c) Productivity. Productivity here means human labour productivity or productivity In terms of human work. Such productivity must be constantly enriched by building capabuhities in people. Ultimately, it is people who are the real weth of nations. Therefore, efforts to increase their kno4edge, or provide better heelth facilities ultimately leads to better work efficiency.

(d) Empowerment. Empowerment means to have the power to make choices. Such power comes from increasing freedom and capability. Good governance and people-oriented policies are reiired to empower people. The emprment of seeially and economically disadvantaged groups is of spea& importance.

Question 37.
Describe briefly the following human activities:
a) Nomadic Herding
b) Commercial Live-stock rearing
Answer:
a) Nomadic herding: This is an ancient means of livelihood. The nomads depend on their animals for their food, clothes, stay, and travel. They move with their animals from one place to another. Each group will have definite grazing areas. In different areas different kinds of animals are reared. It also depends on the climate. Because of definite international borders and new housing regulations, this way of living is becoming less popular. This is concentrated on three areas:

a) From the western shores of Africa to Mongolia, China.
b) The Tundra Regions of Eurasia.
c) Africa- Madagascar.

In the summer, they into the grassland on the mountains and in the cold season they return to the plains. This nomadic movement is called Trans-Humans.

b) Commercial Livestock Rearing: This is the well planned, scientific rearing of livestock and it involves huge capital investment. There will be permanent pastures. Basically it is a European way of rearing livestock. When the grass gets finished in one part of the pasture, the animals are moved to another part. The same kind of animals are reared here, mainly, sheep, cattle and goats. Their meat, fur and skins are scientifically processed and marketed. Great importance is given the breeding, high quality breed of animals, controlling diseases and animal healthcare. In New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, Uruguay, the USA, etc., Commercial Livestock Rearing is given much importance.

Question 38.
Explain the features of any two types of Rural Settlements in India.
Answer:
The rural settlements in India are mainly divided into 4:

1. Nucleated settlement (Compact Settlement)
2. Fragmented settlement (Semi Compact Settlement
3. Hamlet settlement
4. Dispersed settlement

1. Nucleated settlement (Compact Settlement): Here the houses are close to one another. In
this settlement common dwelling area, agricultural lands around, barren area, pastures, etc. are separated. The houses are in rows and the streets between the rows of houses take the shape of a square, circular or linear pattern. Often these nucleated settlements are the results of security problems. In the North Indian silt plains and North-Eastern States these types of settlements are common. In Rajasthan where
water is available, this kind of settlements can be seen.

2. Semi-Compact Settlements: In some areas of dispersed settlements, in certain areas there is a tendency for dwellings coming close to one another. When in the rural communities, one or two communities decide to live away from the centre of the village, this kind of settlement is formed. The people at the lower strata of the society, and labour class, etc. live in the margins of the village. In some parts of Rajasthan and in the Gujarat Plains, these kinds of settlements can be widely seen.

Question 39.
Identify the following Geo-information and locate them on the given outline map of India. Each carries 1 score. (7 x 1 = 7)
a) Largest out Migrant state
b) Location of first geothermal energy plant
c) Largest Bauxite producing state
d) Indira Gandhi Canal Command Area
e) National Waterway 3 (N.W.3)
f) A port at the entrance of Zuari
g) Asia’s largest slum
Answer:

a) Uttar Pradesh
b) Manikaran (Himactial Pradesh)
c) Odistia
d) Western Rajasthan
e) KoIIam-Kottappjram (Kerala)
f) Mormugao
g) Ohaavi