SAMPLE PAPER 01

(By PadhleAkshay)

Time Allowed: 3 Hours Maximum Marks: 80

General Instructions:
1. The question paper comprises of six sections – A, B, C, D, E and F. There are 37
questions in the Question paper. All questions are compulsory.
2. Section A – From questions 1 to 20 are MCQs of 1 mark each.
3. Section B – Question no. 21 to 24 are Very Short Answer Type Questions,
carrying 2 marks each. Answer to each question should not exceed 40 words.
4. Section C contains Q.25 to Q.29 are Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 3
marks each. Answer to each question should not exceed 60 words.
5. Section D – Question no. 30 to 33 are long answer type questions, carrying 5
marks each. Answer to each question should not exceed 120 words.
6. Section-E - Questions no from 34 to 36 are case based questions with three sub
questions and are of 4 marks each. Answer to each question should not exceed
100 words.
7. Section F – Question no. 37 is map based, carrying 5 marks with two parts, 37a
from History (2 marks) and 37b from Geography (3 marks).
8. There is no overall choice in the question paper. However, an internal choice
has been provided in few questions. Only one of the choices in such questions
have to be attempted.
9. In addition to this, separate instructions are given with each section and
question, wherever necessary.
Section A - MCQs (1X20=20)

1 How was the Rowlatt Act of 1919 perceived in terms of fundamental rights and 1
civil liberties by Indians?
(a) It was viewed as a regressive legislation in favour of the majority Indians.
(b) It was considered as severely curtailing the right to personal liberty.

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 (c) It was seen as a necessary measure to prevent communal tensions.
(d) It was regarded as a safeguard for protecting British soldiers.

2 Ankur, a resident from Rajasthan, decided to install a submersible water pump 1

in his house, capable of extracting groundwater from depths of 250-300 m. This
practice of installing similar pumps is becoming increasingly popular across the
state.
Which of the following will this growing practice MOST LIKELY lead to in the
near future?
(a) decline in the groundwater quality
(b) reduced monsoon water resources
(c) increased number of waterborne diseases
(d) water scarcity resulting from excessive utilization

3 Observe the map given below showing the distribution of thermal and nuclear 1
power plants across India.

Air Quality Index (AQI) is used to measure real-time air pollution levels. A high
AQI represents poor air quality.
Accordingly, which of the following regions marked on the map is LIKELY to
experience comparatively better AQI?

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 (a) P
(b) Q
(c) R
(d) S

The following question is for Visually Impaired Students ONLY in lieu of

Question 3.

Which method of energy production is environmentally friendly and practical for

powering homes across regions in India?

(a) coal-fired power plants

(b) nuclear power plants
(c) solar power panels
(d) diesel generators

4 Rina, a 28-year-old woman from a marginalized community, is uneducated but `

adept at making traditional handicrafts. Her family toils hard to afford two
square meals everyday.
Accordingly, which development objective would be the MOST crucial for
improving Rina's and her kin's well-being?
(a) increasing access to clean energy in Rina's community
(b) reducing the impact of climate change on Rina's community
(c) creating more training opportunities for Rina and other artisans
(d) ensuring that Rina has the same rights and opportunities as men in her
community

5 'India’s green energy goals have a serious problem – the Great Indian Bustard' 1
A Wildlife Institute of India (WII) survey covering 80 km of power lines across the
Thar desert found 4 bustard (critically endangered species) deaths during a single
year due to high-transmission wires, including some connected to wind turbines.
Source: The Print
Should the installation of such power lines be reconsidered in areas where such
species are found?
(a) Yes, alternative methods of power generation should be explored to
minimise this risk.
(b) Yes, the goal of protecting biodiversity is the only goal which should be
prioritised.

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 (c) No, the benefits of power lines outweigh the negative impact on the species.
(d) No, the species is not yet extinct and currently no action needs to be taken.

6 There are two statements given below, marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). 1
Read the statements and choose the correct option.
Assertion (A): Power sharing can help to prevent conflict in society.
Reasoning (R): Power sharing ensures that different social groups are included
in decision-making processes, reducing marginalisation and fostering
inclusivity.
(a) A is true but R is false.
(b) A is false but R is true.
(c) Both A and R are true and R explains A.
(d) Both A and R are true but R does not explain A.

7 In an Indian state, communities X and Y have been engaged in a long-standing 1

conflict over issues of co-existence and resource sharing. The tensions have
intensified, leading to a demand from both communities for self-administration.
What is the BEST resolution to this conflict?
(a) collapsing the present government due to its inefficiency in governing the
state
(b) delaying the demands of self-administration and maintaining the current
power structure
(c) imposing strict regulations to control the movements and interactions of
both communities
(d) establishing a power-sharing arrangement where both communities have a
role in decision-making

8 Which of the following is a DEFINITE indicator of the successful 1

implementation of democratic governance?
(a) free economy dictated by market forces
(b) provision of basic amenities to the citizens
(c) establishment of central financial institutions
(d) establishment of institutions to protect people's rights

9 There are two statements given below, marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). 1
Read the statements and choose the correct option.
Assertion (A): Self-Help Groups are instrumental in promoting economic
democracy.

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 Reasoning (R): They contribute to a more equitable distribution of economic
power and opportunities. (a) A is true but R is false. (b) A is false but R is true.
(c) Both A and R are true and R explains A. (d) Both A and R are true but R
does not explain A.

10 The principle of subsidiarity emphasises that decisions should be made by the 1

people who are most affected by them, promoting decentralisation, efficiency,
and citizen participation in governance, with higher levels of authority
intervening only when lower level authorities are unable to address certain
issues effectively.

Source (edited): un.org

Which of the following constitutional principles/legislations is in close

alignment with the principle stated above?
(a) separation of power between the executive, legislature and judiciary
(b) division of power between the central, state and local government
(c) right of individuals to form and join political parties of their choice
(d) reservation for women in the highest law making bodies

11 Globalisation is the increasing interconnectedness of the world through the 1

flow of goods, services, capital, ideas, and people.
Which of the following examples represents globalisation?
(a) an online advertising portal for goods sold by local vendors run by the
Indian government
(b) an IKEA store in Bengaluru selling products manufactured in China
(c) a traditional Vietnamese market selling handicrafts in Hanoi
(d) a sunday market selling groceries produced locally

12 The Indian masses willingly participated in the Civil Disobedience Movement, 1

despite the challenges faced during the Non-Cooperation Movement.
Accordingly, which of the following quotes BEST reflects the outlook of the
masses?
(a) 'The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we
fall'
(b) 'An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind'

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 (c) 'Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere'
(d) 'Obedience is the key to a peaceful society'

13 Given below is the painting 'Imperial Federation - Map of the World showing 1
the extent of the British Empire in 1886'. Observe the painting and answer the
question that follows.

Source: https://exhibits.stanford.edu
Which of the following elements depicted in the painting seem conflicting when
presented together?
(a) the British soldiers and British colonies spread in both east and west
(b) the variety of animals and costumed figures depicting countries and their
people
(c) Britannia, the personification of Britain, seated on top of the world and the
words federation written at the top of the image
(d) the words 'freedom' and 'fraternity' written at the top and Atlas, depicting
human labour, holding the world upon his shoulders

Note: The following question is for Visually Impaired Candidates only in lieu of
Q. No. 13

Read the information given below about the painting - 'A map celebrating the
British Empire'.
The painting has a map that commemorates the British Empire, symbolising its
territorial holdings and influence across various regions of the world.
Given below are a few elements that have been depicted in the painting.
Identify the ones which are conflicting when presented together.
(a) the idea of freedom and imperialism
(b) the colonial nations and the colonies

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 (c) the occupations of a farmer and a soldier
(d) the British and people from different backgrounds together

14 There are two statements given below about the Print Revolution, marked as 1
Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read the statements and choose the correct
option.
Assertion (A): The distribution, application, and preservation of knowledge
were fundamentally altered with the invention of printing.
Reason (R): Printing enabled intellectuals to produce, comment on, and
evaluate texts which spread as ideas across Europe.
(a) A is true but R is false.
(b) A is false but R is true.
(c) Both A and R are true and R explains A.
(d) Both A and R are true but R does not explain A.

15 Which of the following is the PRIMARY factor which contributed to the 1

emergence of multiple political parties at the same level in India?
(a) a federal political system
(b) varied economic conditions
(c) linguistic and regional diversity
(d) low levels of literacy and political awareness

16 Which of the following policy decisions by the central government could 1

potentially serve as a trade barrier?
(a) strengthening export subsidies
(b) simplifying customs procedures
(c) implementing higher tariffs on imports
(d) promoting fairer trade practices globally

17 Given below is a cartoon created by Neelabh Banerjee, the renowned Indian 1

cartoonist, illustrator and comics artist.

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 Source: asiapacific.unwomen.org
What is the cartoon trying to depict?

(a) the sexual division of labour in India

(b) natural and unchangeable gender divisions
(c) income generating activities done by women in rural India
(d) the ability of men to contribute equally to domestic work as women

Note: The following question is for Visually Impaired Candidates only in lieu of
Q. No. 17

In a cartoon created by Neelabh Banerjee, the renowned Indian cartoonist,

illustrator, and comics artist, a woman is depicted in a rural setting, carrying
water pots on her head and a bundle of sticks in her hands. She is also holding
her child's hand. Meanwhile, a man, presumably her husband, is seen lying on a
cot. The husband is heard saying, "Oh, she? She doesn't work. She's just a
housewife."

What is the cartoon trying to depict?

(a) the sexual division of labour in India
(b) natural and unchangeable gender divisions
(c) income generating activities done by women in rural India
(d) the ability of men to contribute equally to domestic work as women

18 The table given below highlights the percentage of workers in the three sectors 1
of the economy in India. The data for the year 2023 has actual figures while the
data for 2040 is hypothetical based on the published figures of the year 2023.

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 Any of the three hypothetical scenarios could be possible in the year 2040.
Study the table carefully and answer the questions that follow.

Year Primary Secondary Tertiary

2023
44% 25% 31%
(Source: Statista)

2040
(Hypothetical Scenario: 1) 20% 45% 35%

2040
(Hypothetical Scenario: 2) 60% 20% 20%

2040
(Hypothetical Scenario: 3) 15% 40% 45%

With all other factors remaining the same, which of the following scenarios
would have the biggest impact on India's global leadership in the future?
(a) only Hypothetical Scenario 1
(b) only Hypothetical Scenario 2
(c) either Hypothetical Scenario 1 or 2
(d) either Hypothetical Scenario 1 or 3

19 Based on the information given in the table, which of the following statements 1
is LIKELY to be correct?
(a) In scenarios 1 and 2, the secondary sector will need the least workers.
(b) In scenario 2, India will become a major services-based economy.
(c) The primary sector in scenario 2 will be the highest contributor to the GDP
of the country.

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 (d) In scenarios 1 and 3, maximum employment opportunities will be created in
the secondary sector.

20 In a representative democracy, which of the following best describes the role of 1

elected representatives?
(a) They have absolute power and authority to make decisions without
consulting the public.
(b) They are accountable to the public and make decisions on behalf of their
constituents.
(c) They act as mere figureheads with no real power or influence in the
government.
(d) They serve lifetime appointments and cannot be removed from office.

Section B - VERY SHORT ANSWER QUESTION (2x4=8)

21 'Consumer Affairs raids Malda markets to check malpractices; Complaints 2

were received that soft drinks were being sold at a higher price...'
Source (edited): Millennium Post
(i) Which consumer right was being violated in the above instance of soft
drinks being sold at a higher price? (1)
(ii) Which consumer right was LIKELY invoked in response to the
complaints? (1)

22 Shruti performed a web search for 'Teacher' and found that 80% of the 2
images had women, while a search for 'Pilot' mainly showed men.
Discuss how these web search results reflect societal perceptions and the
sexual division of labour. Explain with an example.

23 Examine the possible consequences on the basic rights of party members 2

within political organisations that lack internal democracy.

OR

In a hypothetical democratic nation with a population that is religiously

homogenous, should there still be multiple political parties? Justify your

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 stance in about 40 words.

24 Assess the reasons for the concentration of the woollen textile industries 2
in the sub-tropical region in India vs their absence in the southern part of
India.

Section C - SHORT ANSWER-BASED QUESTIONS (3x5-15)

25 'A drought-induced water shortage can have far-reaching consequences, 3

affecting agricultural productivity, the availability of food resources,
industrial activities, and livelihoods, thereby significantly impacting
human well-being.'
i) What does the above statement represent about the relationship
between different resources? (2)
ii) How does such a situation represents lack of resource planning? (1)

26 Discuss the MOST LIKELY impact if India operated without a federal 3

system.
Build the answer around these points:
- regional autonomy
- effectiveness in governance
- decision-making process

27 Read the statements given below regarding Indian Railways. 3

Statement 1 (S1): Indian Railways has largely been a Public Sector

Enterprise.
Statement 2 (S2): Private players are making an entry into the Indian
Railway market.
Explain what trend do these statements - S1 and S2 - reflect in the
railways sector in India.

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28 Which sector, organised or unorganised, is preferable for employment? 3
Explain.

29 Discuss the role of newspapers in shaping public opinion and the 3

democratisation of information during the modern period.

Section D LONG ANSWER-BASED QUESTIONS (5X4=20)

30 Examine the significance and key milestones of the Civil Disobedience 5

Movement that took place in India during the struggle for independence.

OR

Read the following excerpt about the Right to Protest in India and answer
the question that follows.
The Constitution of India guarantees the fundamental right to protest,
which is derived from the broader rights of freedom of speech and
expression, and freedom to assemble peacefully. However, this right is
subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of India's sovereignty.
Violent actions during protests are in violation of citizens' fundamental
duties, emphasising that the right to protest encompasses only peaceful
demonstrations.
Source: Legal Service India

Examine the elements of Satyagraha employed during the 20th-century

Indian freedom struggle in light of their alignment with the Right to
Protest granted by the Indian constitution as mentioned in the passage.

31 A think tank has been given the task to design an outline to measure how 5
successful has democracy been in any country.
Discuss the key indicators that the think tank should consider while
designing this outline and explain why these factors are crucial in
assessing the outcomes of democracy.

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 OR

Free and fair media is one of the most important outcomes of democracy.
Comment.

32 Describe circumstances that drive individuals to seek loans from informal 5

sources of credit. (5)

OR

State the potential negative economic implications that would arise in an

economy in the absence of the concept of credit.

33 Read the information given below regarding Delhi-Dehradun Expressway 5

and answer the question that follows.

The Delhi-Dehradun Expressway is all set to open to the public by the end
of 2023. It would reduce the travel time between the two cities from 6 to 2
hours. The 210 km long expressway will start from North East Delhi and
pass through Baghpat, Shamli, Muzaffarnagar, Saharanpur and Dehradun.
The last 20km stretch will pass through the eco-sensitive zone of Raja Ji
National Park where Asia’s longest elevated wildlife corridor of six lanes
and 12 km will be constructed that includes the 340 m DatKaali tunnel.
The 340-meter-long tunnel near DatKaali temple, Dehradun will help
reduce the impact on wildlife and multiple animal passes have been
provided in the Ganeshpur-Dehradun section for avoiding animal-vehicle
collisions.
Source (edited): Livemint
Analyse the development of the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway in terms of
its impact - negative and/or positive - on economic growth, the
environment and the goal of sustainable development. (5)

OR

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 As per Britannica Dictionary, when the world is seen as a community in
which people are connected by computers, television, etc., and all depend
on one another, the world becomes a 'global village'.
Accordingly, they elaborate on the role of air transport in making the
world a 'global village'.

Section E CASE-BASED QUESTIONS ( 4X3=12)

34 Read the information about climate-smart agriculture and answer the 4

question that follows.

Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is an approach that helps guide actions to

transform agri-food systems towards green and climate-resilient
practices. CSA supports reaching internationally-agreed goals such as the
Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement on climate
change. CSA supports the Food and Agriculture Organisation Strategic
Framework 2022-2031 based on the Four Betters: better production,
better nutrition, a better environment and a better life for all, leaving no
one behind.

Source (edited): Food and Agriculture Organisation

(i) A CSA expert suggested increased production and consumption of

millets in India. Justify their stance. (1)
(ii) What is the necessity to think of CSA in India? (1)
(iii) Suggest two methods through which India can shift towards CSA. (2)

35 Read the passage given below and answer the questions followed:

Population trends and dynamics can have an enormous effect on

prospects for poverty reduction and sustainable development. Poverty is
influenced by – and influences – population dynamics, including
population growth, age structure, and rural-urban distribution. All of this
has a critical impact on a country’s development prospects and prospects
for raising living standards for the poor. Investments in better health,
including reproductive health, are essential for individual security and for
reducing mortality and morbidity (the condition of suffering from a

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 disease or medical condition), which in turn improve a country’s
productivity and development prospects.
Source: UNFPA

(i) How does investing in improved healthcare infrastructure contribute

to the reduction of preventable diseases and chronic conditions? [1]
(ii) Explain the relationship between population trends and poverty
reduction. [1]
(iii) 'Poverty is influenced by – and influences – population dynamics,
including population growth, age structure, and rural-urban distribution.'
Analyse the statement and highlight the mutual relationship between
poverty and population. [2]

36 Read the following lines from Gandhiji's addressal at the A.I.C.C. (All India
Congress Committee) in Bombay on 8-8-42 outlining his plan of action, in
Hindustani, and answer the questions that follow: "You may take it from me
that I am not going to strike a bargain with the Viceroy for ministries and
the like. I am not going to be satisfied with anything short of complete
freedom. Maybe, he will propose the abolition of the salt tax, the drink evil,
etc. But I will say, “Nothing less than freedom.” Here is a mantra, a short
one, that I give you. You may imprint it on your hearts and let every breath
of yours give expression to it. The mantra is: ‘Do or Die’. We shall either free
India or die in the attempt; we shall not live to see the perpetuation of our
slavery. Every true Congressman or woman will join the struggle with an
inflexible determination not to remain alive to see the country in bondage
and slavery. Let that be your pledge. Keep jails out of your consideration."
Source: Smithsonian Magazine

(i) Explain any one key impact that Gandhiji's rejection of "striking a
bargain with the Viceroy for ministries and the like" had on the people
participating in the freedom struggle. (1)
(ii) How did this mantra differ from earlier strategies employed in the
struggle for independence? (1)
(iii) Discuss the economic context and political climate that led to the
adoption of the 'Do or Die' mantra. (2)

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 Section F MAP SKILL-BASED QUESTION (2+3=5)

37 (a) Two places A and B have been marked on the given outline map of 4
India. Identify them and write their correct names on the lines drawn near
them.
i. The place where the Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place
ii. The 1927 Indian National Congress session was held at this place

37 b. On the same map of India, locate and label any three of the following
with suitable symbols.
i) a dam built on the river Sutlej
ii) a software technology park in Northern India
iii) southernmost port on the east coast of India
iv) a nuclear power plant in the state of Maharashtra

Note: The following question is for Visually Impaired Candidates only in

lieu of Question 37 part (a) and part (b).
(a)
i. Name the place where the Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place.

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ii. Name the place where the Indian National Congress session was held in
1927.

(b)

The following question is for Visually Impaired Candidates only in lieu of

Q. No. 37 (b)

Answer any three of the following.

i) Name the dam built on the river Sutlej.
ii) Name the place in northern India where an important software
technology park is present.
iii) Name the southernmost port on the east coast of India.
iv) Name the nuclear power plant present in the state of Maharashtra.

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 Marking Scheme

SAMPLE PAPER 01
(By PadhleAkshay)
Time Allowed: 3 Hours Maximum Marks: 80
General Instructions:
1. The question paper comprises Six Sections – A, B, C, D, E and F. There are 37 questions in
the Question paper. All questions are compulsory.
2. Section A – From questions 1 to 20 are MCQs of 1 mark each.
3. Section B – Question no. 21 to 24 are Very Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 2
marks each. Answer to each question should not exceed 40 words.
4. Section C contains Q.25 to Q.29 are Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 3 marks
each. Answer to each question should not exceed 60 words.
5. Section D – Question no. 30 to 33 are long answer type questions, carrying 5 marks each.
Answer to each question should not exceed 120 words.
6. Section-E - Questions no from 34 to 36 are case based questions with three sub
questions and are of 4 marks each. Answer to each question should not exceed 100 words.
7. Section F – Question no. 37 is map based, carrying 5 marks with two parts, 37a from
History (2 marks) and 37b from Geography (3 marks).
8. There is no overall choice in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been
provided in few questions. Only one of the choices in such questions have to be attempted.
9. In addition to this, separate instructions are given with each section and question,
wherever necessary.

Section A
Q.No Mark
. Question s
1 (b) It was considered as severely curtailing the right to personal liberty. 1
2 (d) water scarcity resulting from excessive utilization 1
3 (c) R 1
(OR)
Solar Power Panels
4 (c) creating more training opportunities for Rina and other artisans 1
5 (a) Yes, alternative methods of power generation should be explored to 1
minimise this risk.
6 1
(c) Both A and R are true and R explains A.
7 (d) establishing a power-sharing arrangement where both communities 1
have a role in decision-making

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 8 (d) establishment of institutions to protect people's rights 1
9 (c) Both A and R are true and R explains A. 1
10 (b) division of power between the central, state and local government 1
11 (b) an IKEA store in Bengaluru selling products manufactured in China 1
12 (a) 'The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every 1
time we fall'
13 1
(d) the words 'freedom' and 'fraternity' written at the top and Atlas,
depicting human labour, holding the world upon his shoulders
1
(a) the idea of freedom and imperialism
1
14 (c) Both A and R are true and R explains A.
1
15 (c) linguistic and regional diversity
1
16 (c) implementing higher tariffs on imports
1
17 (a) the sexual division of labour in India
(d) either Hypothetical Scenario 1 or 3 1
18 1
19 (d) In scenarios 1 and 3, maximum employment opportunities will be
created in the secondary sector.

20 (b) They are accountable to the public and make decisions on behalf of 1
their constituents.
Section B - VERY SHORT ANSWER QUESTION (2x4=8)
21 (i) right to be informed
(ii) right to seek redressal 1
1
22 - The over-representation of women as teachers and men as pilots reinforce 2
traditional notions of job roles. The role of teaching is considered a
caregiving job suitable for women while the role of pilot is regarded as a
physically and mentally demanding job ideal for men.
- Similarly, the job of a nurse is associated more with women and the job of
an engineer is associated with men. These trends represent social
perceptions and perpetuate sexual division of labour.

(to be assessed as a whole)

23 - Freedom of Speech and Expression - Party workers may face restrictions on

voicing their opinions, ideas, or concerns within the party structure. 2
- Right to Equality of Opportunity - Not everyone would get an equal chance
to climb up the success ladder.
- any other relevant point

(any two to be evaluated for two marks)

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 OR
Yes, because despite a religiously homogenous population, having multiple
political parties -
- helps represent diverse political perspectives
- helps in policy formation
- helps avoid authoritarianism
- provides an alternative to the voters
- any other relevant point
(award 0.5 marks for each reason)
24 - Climatic conditions - Southern India has a climate which is not favourable
for wool production. 2.0
- Lack of raw material - Sheep rearing is not widespread in southern India.
- Low demand - The demand for woollen textiles is very low in southern
India due to hot and humid temperatures.
- any other relevant point

All these requirements are met in the sub-tropical region of India hence the
woollen textile industry is concentrated in this region of India.
(to be assessed as a whole)

Section C - SHORT ANSWER-BASED QUESTIONS (3x5-15)

25 -It represents the interconnectedness and interdependence between

resources.
-Availability of food resources depends on water and a negative impact on
agriculture would affect livelihoods impacting human resource.
(to be evaluated as a whole) (2)
-The situation represents lack of water management and over reliance on
monsoons.
(to be evaluated as a whole) (1)
1. Regional autonomy
26 3
Regional governments would have little or no decision-making power.
Regional aspirations might get suppressed.
2. Effectiveness of Governance
Local issues might not receive due attention, leading to a disconnect
between grass root reality and governance.
3. Decision-making processes
The decision making process might become undemocratic and less inclusive.
It is likely to neglect regional aspirations.
- any other relevant point
(award one mark for each point)

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27 -It represents a growing trend of public-private partnership in the Indian 3
market.
-With private trains running, the service quality and the customer
experience would be enhanced.
-It would lead to diversification of choices for the Indian masses.
-It would also lead to an investment in the public infrastructure.
- But it could also lead to railways becoming unaffordable for the common
masses.
-It would also result in revenue loss for the government
(to be assessed as a whole)
It is a preference that might depend on a variety of factors -
28 People might prefer to work in the organised sector because of -
3
- job security
- social security benefits
- regular income

People might prefer to work in the unorganised sector because of -

- flexibility
- escaping paperwork
- quick employment opportunity
(Award marks for whichever sector the students chose. To be assessed as a
whole)
-It led to dissemination of information.
29 -It served as a platform for shaping public discourse.
3
-It led to increased awareness about social, political, and economic issues.
-any other relevant point
(any three to be assessed)

Section D LONG ANSWER-BASED QUESTIONS (5X4=20)

30 Key milestones Dandi March: Gandhi's 240-mile march to Dandi to produce 5

salt became a
powerful symbol of resistance and gained international attention.
Repression and Imprisonment: British authorities responded with
repression and arrests, fueling public outrage and strengthening the
movement.
Negotiations and Outcomes: The movement led to negotiations between
Congress and the British government but fell short of full independence.
Significance
Mass Participation: The movement witnessed widespread involvement from
diverse segments of society, showcasing unity and determination.

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 Boycott of British Goods: Indians boycotted British products to promote self-
reliance and protest colonial economic policies.
Spread of Nationalist Ideas: The movement raised awareness, inspired active
participation, and fostered national unity among the masses.
Legacy and Inspiration: The movement's legacy as a symbol of non-violent
resistance inspired future freedom fighters worldwide.
(to be assessed as a whole)

OR
- The elements of Satyagraha that align with the right to protest of present
times include non-violence, peaceful protests, respect for human rights, and
emphasis on dialogue and negotiation.
- These aspects promote democratic values, freedom of speech, and the right
to dissent.
- However, there are certain elements of satyagraha that may go against the
Indian constitution.
- For example, acts of civil disobedience that involve breaking laws or
disrupting public order can be seen as conflicting with the principle of
upholding the rule of law.
- Additionally, satyagraha techniques that obstruct essential services or
hinder the functioning of government machinery may be deemed
unconstitutional.
(to be assessed as a whole)
31 - Free and fair elections: this represents a healthy democratic process in
5
place
- Citizen's right to information: this is important since only after having the
right information can the citizens hold the government accountable
- Protection of minority rights: this represents a strong commitment to
democratic principles as this would enable the minority community to
participate in the decision-making processes
- Poverty: reduction in poverty over the years would indicate the successful
implementation of democracy
- Rule of law: presence of institutions like an independent judiciary helps
uphold law and ensures fairness, justice and equal treatment to citizens
- any other relevant point
(any five to be evaluated)
OR
-A democratic government needs to be an accountable, responsive and
legitimate government.
-It needs to ensure that it has enabled its citizen to participate in the
decision-making processes.
-It has to make sure that its citizens are informed and making informed
choices.
-It needs to make sure that it is accommodating varied perspectives.

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 -Media as a fourth pillar helps fulfil all these objectives of a democratic
government and hence it is one of the most important outcomes of
democracy.
(to be assessed as a whole)
32 - immediate financial requirement
- absence of collateral 5
- unavailability of documents
- informal economy and irregular income
- limited/restricted access to formal sources of credit
- any other relevant point
(any five to be assessed)
OR
- limited access to funds for starting businesses or making investments
- limited capacity of savings
- limited ability to finance education and skill development
- limited ability to purchase very high-worth items like cars, house, etc.
- limited financial flexibility and convenience
-any other relevant point
(any five to be evaluated for five marks)
33
Economic Growth 5
-reduced travel time will boost trade and tourism
-can lead to greater investment in the valley
-the construction itself is leading to the generation of employment
opportunities
Environment
-passing through an eco-sensitive zone will lead to loss of flora and fauna
-increased vehicular emissions will lead to increased pollution
Sustainable Development
- Environmental concerns have been taken into account and wildlife
corridors have been built.
-Green construction methods could solve the problem of carbon emissions
(to be evaluated as a whole)
OR
Accessibility: Air transport has significantly improved accessibility to
distant locations, making it a convenient mode of travel in cases where other
means of transportation are impractical.
- Facilitating International Trade: Supply chains have been revolutionised
by the quick movement of cargo by air, enabling companies to easily access
international markets. Now, time-sensitive shipments, high-value
commodities, and perishable goods can all be delivered quickly, which has
boosted global trade.
- Boosting Tourism: People from different countries can now explore new
destinations, experience diverse cultures, and build connections with
individuals from around the world. This exposure has led to a better

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 understanding of various traditions and customs, promoting cross-cultural
appreciation. - Advancing Business and Diplomacy: Face-to-face meetings,
conferences, and negotiations between individuals and representatives from
different nations are now more feasible, fostering collaboration and
cooperation. This has been crucial in promoting international business
ventures and resolving global issues. - Humanitarian Aid and Crisis
Response: During emergencies, natural disasters, or humanitarian crises, air
transport enables the swift delivery of relief supplies, medical assistance, and
rescue teams to affected areas. This quick response saves numerous lives and
provides vital support during times of distress. - any other relevant point
(assess any five points for one mark each)

Section E CASE-BASED QUESTIONS ( 4X3=12)

34 (i) -Millets have high nutritional value.

-They are rainfed, hardly need any irrigation facilities and hence can be 1
grown in arid and semi-arid regions.
- Millets do not require a lot of investment to flourish which can help them be
great commercial grain substitutes in poorer nations.
(any one point to be evaluated)
(ii) It is important to start planning for CSA in India because of the changing
1
climate due to global warming.
(to be evaluated as a whole)

-use of genetically-modified seeds resistant to insect damage for cropping

-shift towards organic and natural farming methods 2
-any other relevant point
(any two to be evaluated)
35 (i) Investments in better healthcare provide people with access to essential
healthcare services, such as vaccinations, prenatal care, and treatment for 1
common diseases.
- This can help to reduce the number of people who die from preventable
diseases (mortality) and who suffer from chronic conditions (morbidity).

(ii) An expanding population can exert pressure on a country's resources,

1
including food, water, and land, which can consequently result in heightened
poverty levels as individuals may face insufficient access to nourishment and
adequate housing.
(to be assessed as a whole)

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 (iii) Population growth can strain resources and infrastructure, potentially 2
increasing poverty.
- The age structure of a population affects labour markets and social support
systems, which can impact poverty levels.
- Rural-urban distribution determines access to essential services and
economic opportunities, further influencing poverty rates.
- Poverty can contribute to specific population dynamics, such as high
fertility rates and limited access to healthcare, perpetuating the cycle of
poverty.
- any other relevant point
(two points to be assessed for two marks)
(i) People joined the freedom struggle with stronger determination and
36 1
pledged not to live to see the perpetuation of India's slavery.
- any other relevant point
(any one point to be assessed for one mark)
(ii) The movement aimed at achieving complete independence without
1
accepting any concessions or partial freedoms from the British government.
Earlier strategies, such as non-violent civil disobedience and negotiation,
focused on pressing the British government to grant incremental reforms
and concessions. The 'Do or Die' approach, in contrast, signalled a departure
from the quest for piecemeal changes and instead demanded immediate and
complete freedom for India.
(to be assessed as a whole)
(iii) During the freedom struggle, the failure of the British government to
fulfil promises of granting dominion status to India after World War II left 2
Indian leaders disillusioned with incremental reforms.
- The movement was triggered by discontent among Indians due to the harsh
impacts of the war on the economy and living conditions.
- The political climate in India was tense, with growing impatience for
complete independence.
- Mahatma Gandhi, advocating non-violent civil disobedience, sought a more
decisive strategy to break the stalemate in negotiations with the British.
(assess for any two points, one each for political and economic context) (2)

Section F MAP SKILL-BASED QUESTION (2+3=5)

37 (i) Amritsar, Punjab

(ii) Madras

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Note: The following question is for Visually Impaired Candidates
only in lieu of Question 37 part (a) and part (b).
(a)
i. Name the place where the Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place.
ii. Name the place where the Indian National Congress session was
held in 1927.
(b)
The following question is for Visually Impaired Candidates only in lieu
of Q. No. 37 (b)
Answer any three of the following.
i) Bhakra Nangal Dam
ii) Noida
iii) Tuticorin
iv) Tarapur Atomic Power Plant
(award one mark each for any three correct locations)

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