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1.
Our Earth and The Solar System
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What are known as stars?
Ans. The celestial bodies which have their own light and heat are known
as stars. They are made up of hot gases. For example sun.
(b) The sun is a star, why?
Ans. The sun is a star because it is a huge ball of burning gases and it
emits light and has its own heat.
(c) From where do the planets get light and heat?
Ans. The planets do not have their own heat and light. They shine merely
by the reflection of the sun.
(d) What is known as constellation?
Ans. A group of stars with a certain shape or pattern is known as
constellation, as Saptrishi Mandal.
(e) How is a galaxy formed?
Ans. Millions of stars form a cluster and this duster of stars form a
galaxy.
(f) What is astronomy?
Ans. The scientific study of the celestial bodies is called astronomy.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) What is solar system? Name the planets of the solar system.
Ans. The solar system consists of the sun, the nine planets, their
satellites, comets, asteroids and meteors. The sun is the head and in
the centre of the solar system. The nine planets of the solar system
in order of their distances from the sun are Mercury, Venus, Earth,
Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Naptune and Pluto.
(b) What do you know about the universe?
Ans. The sun, the moon and various objects seen during night in the sky
are known as celestial bodies. All these celestial bodies together
with planets constitute the universe. The planets which revolves
round the sun do not have their own heat or light. They only reflect
the light received from the sun, as earth.
(c) Explain two motions of the earth.
Ans. Our earth is called a unique planet. It revolves round the sun and
completes its one rotation in 365 days and 6 hours. This is called
Annual Motion of the earth. The earth rotates on its axis as well. It
completes this rotation in 24 hours. This is called the Daily Motion
of the earth. This rotation causes day and night.
(d) Why do we consider the earth a unique planet?
Ans. the earth is considered a unique planet of the solar system because it
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is the only planet so far known to have life, atmosphere vegetation
and living beings. The presence of water and air on the earth is the
main source of life here.
(e) What are phases of the moon? How much time does the moon
take in completing these phases?
Ans. Changing of shapes of the moon is called the phase of the moon.
There are different phases of the moon but new moon on
Amavasya and full moon on Purnima are the most common
phases of the moon. The moon takes 29 days and 12 hours in
completing the different phases. This is also called as the waning
and waxing of the moon.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) What is known as motion of the earth? What is its consequence?
Ans. The earth revolves round the sun. It completes its one rotation in
365 days and 6 hours. This rotation is known as the Annual Motion
of the earth or revolution. On account of this revolution, the seasons
change on the earth.
(b) How long does the earth take in one complete rotation on its
axis? What is the consequence of this motion?
Ans. The earth takes 24 hours in one complete rotation on its axis. This
movement is called the Daily Motion of the earth or rotation.
Rotation of the earth on its axis causes day and night.
(c) Which is the satellite of the earth? Explain its features.
Ans. The moon is the only one satellite of the earth. It revolves round the
earth in 27 days and 8 hours. It shines by the reflecting light of the
sun. It does not have air and water, so there is no life on the moon. It
also spins on its axis in 27 days and 8 hours. Due to the equal
duration of rotation and revolution of the moon around the earth,
We only see one side of the moon on the earth. The moon is famous
for its different phases.
4. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words :
Ans. (a) Small or far off celestial bodies are seen with the help of
telescope. (telescope / bioscope)
(b) The size of the universe is very big. (small / big)
(c) North direction is located with the help of pole star during night.
(pole star / shining stars)
(d) The sun is the head of the solar family. (sun / earth)
(e) Asterodis turn into meteors after breaking away. (meteor / comets)
(f) Due to the presence of water, the earth is called a blue planet. (blue
planet / unique planet)
(g) The moon is 3,84,400 km away from the earth. (3,84,400/ 2,00,000)
(h) Neil Armstrong and Edwin Aldrin reached the moon for the first
time. (Neil Armstrong, Edwin Aldrin / Yuri Gagarin, Tarashkova)
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5.
Give one word for each :
Ans. (a) The celestial body which has its own light and heat.
Sun
(b) Celestial body revolving round the planets.
Satellites
(c) Satellite of the earth.
Moon
(d) Cluster of millions of stars.
Galaxy
(e) The scientific study of celestial bodies.
Astronomy
(f) The force due to which all planets revolve around the sun.
Force of gravity
(g) Full moon is sighted on the earth on this day.
Purnima
(h) Rising and falling of water of the oceans which is caused by the
attraction of the moon and sun.
Tide
2.
Latitudes and Longitudes
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What is the north end of the earth's axis called?
Ans. The north end of the earth's axis is called North Pole.
(b) Where is the South Pole situated?
Ans. The South Pole is situated in the Southern Hemisphere.
(c) What divides the earth into North Hemisphere and South
Hemisphere?
Ans. The equator divides the earth into two equal halves the Northern
Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere.
(d) How many lines of latitude are there?
Ans. The latitude of a place is measured as an angle and is measured in
degrees. So except equator, there are total 180° parallels drawn on
the earth.
(e) How much time does a longitude take to cross the sun?
Ans. The earth rotates from west to east through 360° in about 24 hours.
There is a difference of 4 minutes in covering 1° longitude, since the
sun takes 4 minutes in crossing each longitude.
(f) Which meridian determines the standard time of India?
Ans. The standard meridian determines the standard time of India.
(g) What is Greenwich Line?
Ans. The imaginary line which divides the globe of the earth into
Western Hemisphere and Eastern Hemisphere is called Prime
Meridian. This meridian passes through Greenwich in London
(Royal observatory), therefore it is called Greenwich Line. On the
basis of this, time in all countries is determined.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) What is meant by the lines of latitude?
Ans. A set of imaginary lines can be drawn between the two poles,
parallel to the equator. These lines are called the lines of latitudes or
parallels.
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(b) What do you mean by Meridians?
Ans. A set of imaginary lines can be drawn by joining the North Pole and
South Pole. These lines, running in the north south direction, are
called the lines of Longitude or Meridians.
(c) What do you understand by standard time?
Ans. In every country a more or less central meridian or the meridian of
its most important city is selected as a standard meridian. The local
time of this meridian is taken as the standard time for the whole
country.
(d) What is the importance of International Date Line?
Ans. International Date Line is an internationally agreed time change
line drawn approximately along the 180° meridian but deviating to
both W and E to avoid land areas in the Pacific Ocean.
(e) Explain the reason why we are able to listen the running
commentary of the cricket match started at 10 o'clock in
England at 3:30 afternoon in India.
Ans. The difference of time between Indian Standard Time (IST) and
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) is 5 hours and 30 minutes. Our
Standard time is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of England's
Greenwich Mean Time. That's why we are able to listen the running
commentary of the cricket match started at 10 o'clock in England at
3:30 afternoon in India.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) What heat zones are found on the earth?
Ans. The Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn are two heat
zones found on the earth. The Tropic of cancer is the parallel of
23½° N in the Northern Hemisphere. It passes through our country.
The Tropic of capricorn is parallel of 23½° S in the Southern
Hemisphere. All places located between the Tropic of cancer and
the Tropic of Capricorn receive the maximum amount of heat and
the region is called Torrid Zone. India is located in Torrid Zone.
(b) Explain the link between meridians and time.
Ans. There is a close relationship between the lines of longitude and
time. The sun rises in the east and sets in the west. So the time is
different at all places on the earth. The earth rotates from west to
east through 360° in about 24 hours. There is a difference of 4
minutes in covering 1° longitude, since the sun takes 4 minutes in
crossing each longitude. During its rotation the earth covers 15°
longitude each hour. The word 'meridians' actually means midday.
At Greenwich line when the sun in vertically overhead, it is 12
o'clock. When we go eastwards from Greenwich line, the time
increases, while on going to west, it decreases.
(c) Why do the sunrise and sunset not happen at all places on the
earth at the same time?
Ans. The day begins with the sun rise and ends with the sunset. The place
east of a given longitude will have the sunrise first. At 12 noon
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(midday) the sun is vertically overhead at a given longitude through
out the world. But it can not be vertically overhead at two different
longitude at the same time. When the sun goes eastwards from
Greenwich line, the time increases and it becomes day and the time
decreases while on going to west and it becomes night.
4. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Equator
0° latitude
2. Tropic of Cancer
23½° North latitude
3. Tropic of Capricorn
23½° South latitude
4. Greenwich Line
0° Longitude
5. India's standard meridian
82½° last meridian
6. Bangladesh's standard meridian
90° East meridian
7. Pakistan's standard meridian
75° East meridian
8. International Date line
180° Longitude
3.
Day and Seasons
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) How much time does the earth take in rotation?
Ans. The earth takes 24 hours to complete one rotation.
(b) What is daily motion of the earth?
Ans. The earth is inclined on its axis at an angle of 23½° and makes one
complete rotation in 24 hours.
(c) In what direction does the earth rotate on its axis?
Ans. The earth rotates on its axis from west to east.
(d) How are days and nights caused on the earth?
Ans. Due to the spherical shape of the earth, only half of it gets light from
the sun at a time. The portion that receives sunlight experiences day
time while the dark portion has night time.
(e) In how many days does the earth complete its revolution?
Ans. The earth completes its revolution in 365 days and 6 hours.
(f) What is leap year?
Ans. The earth completes its revolution in 365 days and 6 hours. After
every fourth year, The February mouth has 29 days and the year has
366 days instead of 365 days. Such a year is called a leap year.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Explain the movement of rotation of the earth.
Ans. The earth spins on its axis like a top. The spinning of the earth on its
axis is called rotation. The earth is inclined on its axis at an angle of
23½° and makes one complete rotation in 24 hours. Thus rotation is
called the Daily Motion of the earth.
(b) What is meant by revolution of the earth?
Ans. The earth, while rotating around axis, also revolves around the sun.
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The movement of the earth around the sun in a fixed elliptical is
called Revolution or Annual Motion of the earth. The earth takes
about 365 days and 6 hours to complete one revolution around the
sun.
(c) What is summer solstice?
Ans. On 21st of June the sunrays fall vertically on the Tropic of Cancer,
as the North Pole remains inclined towards the sun and South Pole
is away from it. There is summer season in the Northern
Hemisphere and winter seasons in the Southern Hemisphere. This
position of the earth is called as summer solstice.
(d) When does winter solstice happen? What is its effect on the
Northern Hemisphere?
Ans. Winter solstice happens on 22nd of December when the North Pole
remains inclined away from the sun and the South Pole remains
inclined towards the sun. As such the sunrays fall vertically on the
Tropic of Capricorn. At that time Northern Hemisphere
experiences winter season. The day becomes shortest and the night
longest in this Hemisphere.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Explain diagrammatically the causing of the seasons.
Ans. The changes of season is caused mainly by the revolution of the
earth around the sun. During the revolution the earth passes through
four important position, each at an interval of three months. These
conditions cause the Cycle of Seasons. Usually a year is divided
into summer, autumn, spring and winter. The diagram given below
shows the different position of the earth during its revolution
around the sun.
Autumn in the
Southern
Hemisphere
Summer in the
Northern
Hemisphere
Summer in the 21 March (1)
Northern
Hemisphere
Sun
21 June (2)
Summer in the
Northern
Hemisphere
Winter in the
Northern
Hemisphere
22 December (4)
23 September (3) Autumn in the
Northern
Hemisphere
Spring in the
Northern
Hemisphere
Winter in the
Southern
Hemisphere
Four Position of the Earth and Seasons
On 21st of June, the sunrays fall vertically on the Tropic of Cancer
as the North Pole remains inclined towards the sun and the South
Pole is away from it. There is summer season in the Northern
Hemisphere and winter season in the Southern Hemisphere. In the
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same way on 22nd December, the Tropic of Capricorn receives
direct rays of the sun as the South Pole tilts towards it and the rays of
the sun falls here vertically. So here is summer season with longer
days and shorter nights.
After summer solstice, the earth moves gradually and reaches the
position of Autumnal Equinox on 23rd September. On 21st March
and 23rd September, direct sunrays fall on the equator. At this position
neither the Poles are tilted towards the sun. So the whole earth
experiences equal days and nights. The atmosphere is neither too hot
or too cold. The period in the Northern Hemisphere is called autumn
season and in the Southern Hemisphere, it is called spring season.
(b) Why is february of 29 days every four year ?
Ans. The earth takes about 365 days and 6 hours to complete one
revolution around the sun. This time is called a year. For
convenience, we count only 365 days in a year and the balance of 6
hours is added every fourth year, which is called a leap year. Thus in
every four year, February has 29 days and the extra day in February
is called a leap day.
(c) Explain the revolution of the earth.
Ans. The earth, while rotating around axis, also revolves around the sun.
The movement of the earth around the sun is a fixed elliptical orbit
is called Revolution. Throughout its orbit, the earth is inclined in
the same direction and going around the sun to cover 66,56,06,100
km. path with a wonderful speed of 1,12,653 km. per hour. The
earth takes about 365 days and 6 hours to complete one revolution
around the sun. For convenience, we count 365 days in a year and 6
hours are added to every fourth year, which is called a leap year.
The axis of the earth is tilted at the angle of 66½° one side direction.
Because of this tile the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern
Hemisphere lean towards and away from the sun in turn. These
changes in the position of the earth with reference to the sun cause
the changes in the seasons.
4. Tick (3) the correct alternative :
Ans.
(a) The earth spins on its axis and completes one rotation in :
3
(i) 24 hours
(ii) 40 hours
(iii) 72 hours
(iv) 12 hours
(b) The main source of light on the earth is :
(i) electricity
(ii) petrol
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(iii) moon
(iv) sun
(c) The effect of the earth's revolution is :
(i) happening of day and night
(ii) change of seasons
3
(iii) raining
(iv) none of these
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(d) The sunrays fall vertically on the Tropic of cancer on :
(i) 21st March
(ii) 22nd December
3
(iii) 21 st June
(iv) 23rd September
5. Match the columns :
Ans.
Column A
Column B
1. The part of the earth facing
this is days.
the sun is lit by the sun and
2. The part of the earth away from
and that is night.
the sun which is in darkness
3. The earth on its axis
is inclined on 23½° angle.
4. The axis of the earth is inclined
an angle of 66½°
on the plane of its orbit at
5. In both the Hemispheres, on
the days and nights become
23rd September
equal.
6. On 21st June in Northern
the days are longest and
Hemisphere
nights are shortest.
7. The seasons in both the Hemispheres are opposite.
8. The Christmas in Northern
is celebrated in winter.
Hemisphere
4.
Main Realms of the Earth
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What are the realms of the earth?
Ans. The life zone on the earth's surface is known as Biosphere.
Biosphere is dependent on Lithosphere, Hydrosphere at
Atmosphere. These are known as the realms of the earth.
(b) List the continents of the earth.
Ans. These are seven continents on the earth North America, South
America, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia and Antarctica.
(c) Name the oceans of the earth.
Ans. There are five major oceans on the earth. In the decreasing order of
size, they are the Pacific ocean, the Atlantic ocean, the Indian
ocean, the Southern Arctic ocean and the Northern Arctic ocean.
(d) What is the ratio of land and water on the earth?
Ans. The ratio of land and water on earth is about 71 percent of the earth's
surface is covered with water and 29 percent by land masses.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Why is the earth called watery planet?
Ans. The surface of the earth is made up of land and water. About 71
percent of earth's surface is covered with water and 29 percent by
land masses. Due to the presence of abundant water on the earth, it
is also called watery planet.
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(b) Why is Oxygen called life air?
Ans. Our atmosphere is a mixture of gases. Oxygen is vital for human
beings and animals while carbon dioxide is important for the plants.
Therefore oxygen is called life air.
(c) What do you know about Antarctica continent?
Ans. Antarctica is the southmost continent. South Pole lies in the centre
of this continent. Antarctica till now in a strange continent with no
permanent settlement. It is known as white continent because it is
permanently covered with thick sheet of snow and ice. Therefore
there is no suitable conditions for human beings.
(d) What is the significance of oceans for us?
Ans. Oceans have very important place on the earth. They have 97
percent of the total water on the earth. Coastal lines of the oceans
are helpful in developing ports. International trade is carried
through ships from these ports. Aquatic animals found is seas are
the part of food human beings. They also have an important place in
forming a huge weather machine.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) What is atmosphere? Explain its importance for us.
Ans. The blanket of gases and air surrounding the earth on all sides is
called atmosphere and it shields us from the sun and contains the air
we breathe. Without it, life would not exist. It extends upto about
1600 km from the earth's surface. The air which surrounds the earth
does not have the same density everywhere. Atmosphere is more
dense near the earth's surface and above the surface it becomes
thinner. Atmosphere is a mixture of many gases. Oxygen is the life
giving gase for human beings and animals, carbondioxide is
essential for plants. The dust particles and water vapour keeps the
earth's surface warm during the night and they help information of
clouds which are a big source of water on earth.
(b) What is meant by biosphere?
Ans. The narrow contact zone of land, water and air consisting of living
organisms is called biosphere. The biosphere consists of main
elements human beings, animals, plants and micro-organisms.
These four elements are interdependent. There is a continuous
interaction between these elements. The biosphere is of great
significance to us.
(c) Explain the interdependence of the earth's realms.
Ans. The life zone on the earth's surface is known as biosphere.
Biosphere depends on Lithosphere, Hydrosphere and Atmosphere.
These are known as the realms of the earth. These realms are
interdependent on each other. Lithosphere is a solid cover of the
earth's surface. It is rocky and hard in nature. The lithosphere
provides us minerals, salts, rocks and fertile soil for agriculture. It is
the basis of the life of macro and micro organisms. About 71 percent
of the earth's surface is under the water. The major water bodies like
seas, oceans, lakes, ponds etc, constitute Hydrosphere. Air is also
necessary for the life of living beings. The blanket of air and gases
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surrounding the earth on all sides is called atmosphere. Atmosphere is
a mixture of different gases like oxygen, carbondioxide and nitrogen
etc. Oxygen is vital for living beings while carbondioxide is important
for plants. Life is possible where all these realms come into contact.
This contact zone consisting life is called biosphere. Thus we can say
that the four elements of the biosphere are interdependent.
(d) In what sense, the earth is considered a unique planet?
Ans. Air, water and land are found on the earth. Air and water make life
possible on the earth. Our earth is the only planet known to have
life. There are no symptoms of life on other planets of the solar
system. The earth as such provides a suitable environment which is
favourable for the origin and sustenance of all types of life human
life, plant life and animal life. The earth also has a unique
distinction of being at a reasonable distance from the sun. Due to
this, the earth has become a unique planet of the solar system.
4. Tick (3) the correct statement :
Ans. (a) The earth is a unique planet of the solar system.
3
(b) Oxygen is the largest constituent of the atmosphere.
5
(c) Nitrogen is 78.1 percent in the atmosphere.
3
(d) Asia is the largest continent.
3
(e) Antarctica is the smallest continent.
5
(f) 70 percent of the earth's surface is covered with water.
5
(g) Atmosphere extends upto 1600 km.
3
(h) The realms of the earth are distinct and separate from one another. 5
(i) Deforestation has caused pollution.
5
(j) We have on duty towards the earth's realms.
3
5. Fill in the blanks with suitable word :
Ans. (a) Landmass occupies 29 percent of the earth's surface. (50, 29, 40)
(b) In the beginning, the living beings originated in water. (air, water,
land)
(c) Australia is the smallest continent. (Asia, Australia, Europe)
(d) The largest and the deepest ocean is Pacific. (Indian, Pacific,
Atlantic)
(e) Atmosphere serves as a blanket on the earth. (blanket, polluter)
(f) It is difficult to breather on high mountains. (easy, difficult)
6. Give one word for each of the following :
Ans. (a) Gaseous blanket surrounding the earth.
Atmosphere
(b) A huge mass, which rises above the general level of
the surrounding area.
mountain
(c) The large interconnecting water bodies.
oceans
(d) The outer crust of the earth composed of rocks and
minerals.
Lithosphere
(e) The place of the sea where the ships harbour and load
and unload cargo.
Port
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5.
Globes and Maps
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What is a globe?
Ans. A globe is an exact and the simplest man made model that represent
the spherical earth.
(b) What are the difficulties in using a globe?
Ans. The difficulties to use a globe are that we can not draw the details on
it, we can not carry it everywhere and it does not represent the
whole earth at the same time.
(c) How can the motion of the earth be shown?
Ans. The globe is mounted on its axis at the same inclined angle of 23½°
at which the earth is located in the space. Rotation of the earth can
be represented by rotating the globe on its axis.
(d) Who was Ptolemy?
Ans. Ptolemy was a Greek geographer who wrote a book called
Geographia.
(e) What is the use of Mariner's Compass?
Ans. Mariner's compass is known as magnetic compass which is helpful
in finding the North direction in the most efficient way.
(f) What is scale?
Ans. The scale is the ratio between the distance of two points on the map
and their corresponding distance on the ground.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) What is the difference between a map and a globe?
Ans. The difference between a globe and a map is that globe is a model of
spherical earth while map is drawn on a paper. The globe represents
the earth as a whole with few details while maps besides the whole
earth can also represent a small part or a local area such as villages,
towns and cities.
(b) What is a map? What is Cartography?
Ans. A map is a representation of the spherical earth on a flat surface
drawn to scale. The science of map making is called Cartography.
(c) Explain the technique used by Eskimos for map making.
Ans. The technique used by Eskimos for making maps was that they
would cut dark coloured hide of animals to represent oceans then
stitch it on light coloured hide.
(d) How are directions shown is maps?
Ans. The top of the maps where the title is written, is always to the North
and the lower part of the map is South direction. The right hand side
is the East and the left hand side is the West. The earth has two
Poles. These fixed points are taken as North and South points.
When we draw a line from North to South Pole, then the right side
of this line is East and the left side of this line is West.
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3.
Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) "Map is an essential and important tool for the study of
geography. " Explain the statement.
Ans. Map is a useful and important tool for the study of geography. The
study of geography can be made simple and interesting through it.
Map can show various features. For example – land-forms, heights,
depths, roads, railway-lines, human settlements, etc. Various kinds
of informations are given through words, symbols and colours. The
maps are also needed for understanding distribution of resources,
patterns of their utilization and for making development plans. It is
easy to carry maps from one place to another. A map generally
contains a lot of details which can be contained in large book.
(b) What are conventional Symbols? What is the use of them?
Ans. many features of the map are shown on the map with the help of
small signs and symbols. They are known as conventional symbols.
An understanding of these symbols is essential for map reading. In
maps blue colour is used to show watery portion, green colour to
show vegetation, brown colour for mountains and yellow colour for
plains. But it is difficult to show rivers, temples, roads and wells etc
on the map, because of lack of space. To show these things
conventional symbols are used. These symbols are internationally
recognised.
(c) What is the contribution of computers in map making?
Ans. Modern age is the age of computers. Now maps can be drawn by it.
Clear and accurate maps can be made through computers. For this
CAD software is used. The quality of maps has really improved
with the advent of new techniques.
(d) Explain different types of maps.
Ans. Maps are of several types but can be classified into two main
categories-General purpose maps and Thematic maps.
General purpose maps are not made for any specific purpose in
mind. They may show all types of features such as roads, cities,
towns, villages, physical features and political boundaries.
Thematic maps are made to show specific features in detail. They
are often known by the theme they highlight. Some of them may
further be classified as physical maps, political maps, cadastral
maps and Topographic map.
4. Tick (3) the correct alternative :
Ans.
(a) The science of map making is called :
(i) drawing
(ii) cartography
3
(iii) survey
(iv) sketch
(b) Cartographer 'Ptolemy' belonged to:
(i) China
(ii) India
(iii) Egypt
(iv) Greek
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(c) In maps, the distance is shown by:
(i) scale
(ii) directions
3
(iii) conventional
(iv) colour
(d) magnetic compass was invented in :
(i) India
(ii) Egypt
(iii) England
(iv) China
(e) The drawing showing a play ground is called :
(i) map
(ii) thematic map
(iii) plan
(iv) none
3
6.
3
India-Our Country
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) Which ocean has been named after the name of India?
Ans. Indian ocean has been named after the name of India.
(b) What is the name of the mountain lying to the North of India?
Ans. The name of the mountain lying to the North of India is Himalayas.
(c) What is the area of India?
Ans. India covers an area of 3.28 million sq. km. It is the seventh largest
country in the world.
(d) What is the southernmost point of the whole India?
Ans. Indira Point in the Andaman and Nicobar island is the
Southernmost point for the whole country.
(e) How many states and union territories are there in India?
Ans. There are 28 states and 7 union Territories in India.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Name one unique feature of the landmass of India.
Ans. India is the seventh largest country in the world. It accounts for
about 2.4 percent of the world's total geographical area. Because of
the great longitudinal extent, the sun rises or sets almost two hours
earlier at the eastern most part of India than the western most part.
(b) How does India have a favourable location?
Ans. The Tropic of Cancer 20° 30° passes through the middle of the
country and divides it roughly into two equal parts. The South India
is in the Tropical Zone and Northern half or North India is in subTropical Zone. The location gives India a distinct geographical
advantage of being favourably situated on the world's high way of
trade and commerce.
(c) Who are the immediate neighbours of India?
Ans. The immediate neighbours of India are Pakistan, Afghanistan,
China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar (Burma).
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(d) What are the main physical divisions of India?
Ans. The main five physical divisions of India are– The Northern
Mountains, The North Indian Plains, The Peninsular Plateau and
The Indian Desert, The Coastal Plains and The Islands.
(e) Which islands are a part of union of India?
Ans. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the Lakshadweep Island are
a part of union of India.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) State the chief features of the Himalayas.
Ans. Himalayas lie in the North of India. These are three parallel ranges
named the Himadri, the greater Himalaya and the Shivaliks,
running a length of 2500 km, in an arc shape. Himalaya has great
heights, conical peaks, steep slopes, deep valleys, gorges, glaciers
and thick forests. Most of the peaks remain covered with snow and
ice almost throughout the year. The greater Himalaya has the
world's highest peaks such as Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and
K2.
(b) State the reason why the plains of the North are a boon for
India?
Ans. Rivers of the Northern India originate. India is equally fortunate in
having one of the most extensive flat, low-lying and fertile plains of
the world to the south of the Himalaya. It is made up of alluvium
carried down and deposited by many rivers. The Indus river, The
Ganga river and the Brahmaputra river have made these plains a
boon for India. These plains are famous for excellent climate,
farming, transport, industry and commerce 45 percent of India's
population lives in these plains.
(c) What do you know about the Deccan Plateau? What is its
importance?
Ans. Deccan Plateau extends from the Vindhyas in the North of the
Southern tip of Peninsula. It is surrounded by the Arabian sea on the
West, the Bay of Bengal on the East and the Indian ocean on the
South. Therefore it is also called peninsular Plateau. This region is
rich in minerals and forests. 80 percent of the minerals are dug out
of this region. Many of the rivers here have formed Deltas. These
Ghats are the centres of salt making and fishing. Here, the rice,
rubber, coconut and banana are grown in abundance.
4. Tick (3) the correct alternative :
Ans.
(a) What is the rank of India in the world in respect of geographical area?
(i) first
(ii) second
(iii) fifth
(iv) seventh
3
(b) How many percent population of the total population of the world
lives in India?
(i) 10%
(ii) 16%
3
(iii) 15%
(iv) 20%
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(c) Which are the neighbouring countries to the North of India?
(i) Nepal, China
3
(ii) Afghanistan, Pakistan
(iii) Bangladesh, Myanmar
(iii) Sri Lanka, Maldives
5. Match the columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. The Tropic Passing through the
Tropic of Cancer
middle of India
2. Neighbouring country of India
Myanmar
3. Highest peak of the Himalayas
K-2
in India
4. Brahmaputra
River
5. The Thar Desert
Desert of India
6. Port Blair
Andaman Nicobar
7. New Delhi
India
8. Raipur
Chhattisgarh
9. Ranchi
Jharkhand
10. Sikkim
Gangtok
7.
Continents and Oceans
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What gives the earth a unique position?
Ans. The presence of land, water and air on the earth gives it a unique
position in the solar system.
(b) Describe the shape of the earth.
Ans. Earth has a spherical shape but not a perfect sphere. It bulges at the
equator and is flat at the poles. Thus the equatorial diameter is more
than its polar diameter.
(c) What are the two main divisions of the earth?
Ans. Two main divisions of the earth as a whole are the continents and
oceans.
(d) What is continent?
Ans. The continents are the great land masses of the world.
(e) Define an ocean.
Ans. The large water bodies that surround the continents are called the
oceans.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Name the continents in order of their size.
Ans. The names of the continent in order of their size are Asia, Africa,
North America, South America, Antarctica, Europe and Australia.
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(b) Name the oceans in order of their size.
Ans. The oceans in order of their size are the Pacific ocean, the Atlantic
ocean, the Indian ocean, the Arctic ocean and the Antarctic ocean.
(c) In which continent does India lie? Why is this continent called
the continent of extremes?
Ans. India lies in the continent Asia, Asia is called the continent of
extremes because it has the highest temperature in the Arabian
Desert and lowest in Siberia, the highest rainfall in Mawsynram and
has many areas without rainfalls for years.
(d) What is apartheid?
Ans. Apartheid is the policy of racial segregation. Due to the practice of
this policy, Africans were considered as black racial persons and
were prohibited to take part in any sphere of life. They were not
given the equal rights as the whites.
(e) Why is Antarctica called a continent of science?
Ans. Antarctica is completely covered with snow and ice. That's why it is
inhabited and it has no resources. But it provides a great scope for
scientific study of weather. Therefore it is called Continent of
Science. Many countries including India has established their
research centres here.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Write a brief note on Asia.
Ans. Asia is the largest continent. It covers an area of 29.6% of the world.
There are 48 countries in Asia. India also lies in Asia. It has roughly
one third land area of the world and three-fifth of its population. It
has highest temperature in Arabian Desert and lowest in Siberia, the
highest rainfall in Mawsynram and has vast areas without rainfall
for years. Thick forests are found near the equator and moss and
lichen in the Tundra. The means of livelihood in most countries in
farming except Japan and Korea. Asia has a great variety of land
mass, climate, vegetation, tribes and living beings.
(b) Why is Africa called a dark continent?
Ans. Africa is the second largest continent in the world. It was
discovered in 1770 A.D. by a sailor named Captain Cook. Africa
was almost unknown to the rest of the world until the middle of the
19th Century. Very few people had the opportunity and courage to
see the interior of it as it was dangerous to there. Therefore, for a
long time the Europeans called Asia as the Dark Continent.
(c) Describe any three oceans in detail.
Ans. Pacific ocean is greater in area than all the continents put together. It
covers 33% of the world. The deepest point in the world is Marian
Trench also lies in it. It is semi circular in shape.
The second largest ocean is Atlantic ocean. It has the shape of letter
'S'. It has North America on the west and Europe on the East. It
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merges into Arctic ocean to the North.
The Indian ocean is triangular in shape. In the North it is bounded
by the continent of Asia where India is located as its head. It is also
called Half Ocean. It is bounded by Africa in the West and by
Australian island in the East.
(d) Describe the location of any three continents.
Ans. Asia is the largest continent. It is spread over an area of 29.6% of the
world. It occupies about 163 degrees of longitude. Sometimes
Europe and Asia are together known as Eurasia.
Europe is adjacent to Asia. It is covered on three sides by the
Atlantic Ocean, the mediterranean sea and the North sea on one side
it is joined with Asia. Ural mountain seperates it from Asia.
Sometimes it is called the Peninsula of Asia.
North America is the third largest continent in the world. It lies
entirely in the Northern Hemisphere and extends between 7° N and
83° N latitudes. It also lies entirely in the Western Hemisphere and
extends between 53°w and 180° w longitudes.
4. Fill in the blanks with appropriate word :
Ans. (a) Globe is the spherical model of the earth. (flat / spherical)
(b) The large and masses are continents. (continents / peninsula)
(c) Asia is the largest continent. (largest / smallest)
(d) 67 percent population of the world lives in asia. (50 percent / 67
percent)
(e) Asia's neighbouring continent is Europe. (Europe / Africa)
(f) Canberra is the capital of Australia. (Canberra / Moscow)
(g) North America, in area, is the third largest continent in the world.
(second / third)
(h) Nile is the longest river in the world. (Nile / Amazon)
(i) Sahara exists in Africa. (Africa / Australia)
(j) The largest ocean is known as pacific ocean. (pacific ocean /
atlantic ocean)
5. State 'Yes' or 'No' against the statement :
Ans. (a) The earth is flat.
(No)
(b) There are five continents in the world.
(No)
(c) Asia is spread over on area of 29.6%
(Yes)
(d) There are 48 countries in Asia.
(Yes)
(e) Europe and Asia are jointly called Eurasia.
(Yes)
(f) The capital of the U.S.A. is New York.
(Yes)
(g) Brazil is the famous country of Africa.
(No)
(h) Sahara is the largest desert in the world.
(Yes)
(i) The population of Australia is large as compared to Asia.
(No)
(j) The Indian ocean resembles the letter 'S'.
(No)
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8.
Climate, Natural Vegetation and Wild Life
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What is meant by Monsoon?
Ans. The word monsoon has been taken from the Arabic word Mausim
which means season. It is closely related with rain. Thus monsoon
season also means rainy season.
(b) In what ways the Monsoon affect India?
Ans. The crops of India depends upon rain. Early outset of monsoon
finds the land unprepared to avail the benefits of rains while
delayed rains dry up the crops. The whole life of India including
agricultural, custom, festivals revolves round the monsoon.
(c) What is the main feature of the Monsoon Climate?
Ans. The climate of India is described as Tropical Monsoon climate. In
spite of the climatic contrasts, the monsoon winds lend a climatic
unity to India. Monsoon winds gives rains and four seasons in India.
(d) Where can you find evergreen trees?
Ans. The evergreen trees found on the rainy slopes of the Western Ghats,
the hills of Assam and Meghalaya, Andaman and Nicobar islands
and in some parts of West Bengal and Orissa.
(e) Name the national bird of India.
Ans. Peacock is the national bird of India.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Name the four main seasons of India. What is their duration?
Ans. The main four seasons of India are– The cold weather season, the
hot weather season, the advancing monsoon season and the
retreating monsoon season. The cold weather season occurs from
the beginning of December to the end of February. The hot weather
season begins in March and continues till the end of May. The
advancing monsoon season begins on 21st June and lasts till the end
of September. The fourth the retreating monsoon season occurs
during October and November.
(b) Why do different kinds of forests grow in India?
Ans. India is endowed with a great variety of forests because of the
varied land forms and climate. That is why the Tropical RainForests in Andaman, The Thorn Forests in Rajasthan and the
Tropical Deciduous Forests are found in the Himalayan region
while the sundarbans are full of Mangrove trees (The Tidal forests).
(c) Name the trees which grow in the Tropical Deciduous Forests.
Where are these forests found?
Ans. The Tropical Deciduous Forests are found in the Madhaya Pradesh,
Bihar, Jharkhand, Orissa and Maharashtra. Teak and Sal are the
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most important trees of these forests. Other common trees are
shisham, mahua, sandalwood, rosewood, ebony and bamboo.
(d) Write four ways to conserve forests.
Ans. In order to protect our environment, we should take the following
steps for forest conservation–
(i) There should be an effective check on unnecessary cutting of
trees.
(ii) Cooking gas should be used as fuel instead of wood.
(iii) There should be emphasis on afforestation.
(iv) Society should be made aware of forest conservation.
(e) Why is conservation of forests and wildlife necessary?
Ans. The forest resources is exhausting as we have been destroying this
natural resource. Conservation of forests and wild life is necessary
for the maintenance of ecological balance and unpolluted
environment.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) What factors affect the climate of India?
Ans. The climatic conditions vary not only from place to place but also
from season to season. In spite of the climatic contrasts, the
monsoon winds lend a climatic unity to India. Most of the rain, in
India, is caused by monsoon winds. The crops in India depends
upon rains. Early outset of monsoon finds the land unprepared to
avail the benefits of rains while delayed rains dry up the crops. The
monsoon winds are generally irregular and unpunctual, give a
worst condition for the crops. The chief factors affecting the climate
of India are upper air currents, Himalayan mountain, relief and
oceans.
(b) Give a brief account of different kinds of forests found in India.
Ans. Plants in general are called vegetation, therefore forests are our
natural vegetation. Nature bestowed forests to our country
magnanimously. Different kinds of forests found in India are –
1. The Tropical Rain Forests – These are dense and thick forests,
found in the hot and humid areas with a short dry season. They have
enough rainfall and remain evergreen throughout the year. These
are mainly found in Andaman and Nicobar, Assam, Meghalaya,
Orissa and West Begnal.
2. The Tropical Deciduous Forests – These forests are found in the
area where the average annual rainfall ranges from 100 cm to 200
cm. These are also called Monsoon Forests. These forests are
found in Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Orissa and
Maharastra.
3. The Thorn Forests – These forests are found in the area where the
annual rainfall is less than 80 cm. The trees mainly found here are
shrubs and bushes. Babul and Kikar are the main trees. These are
mainly found in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujrat and Madhya
Pradesh and in the drier parts of the Deccan Plateau.
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4. The Himalayan Forests – The foot hills of the Himalayas are
covered with Tropical Deciduous Forests, and Sal in the most
important tree. Other trees found here are oaks, pines and chir trees.
5. The Tidal Forests – These forests are found in those areas which
are flooded by the high tides of the sea. They have mangrove trees
which can grow in both fresh and salt water as Sunderbans.
(c) Write a brief note on the wildlife of India.
Ans. The wild life of our country is rich and varied. India has about 8100
Known species of animals, 2500 species of fish and 1200 species of
birds. Wild life is distributed over the country according to
vegetation. Elephants, Indian lions, tigers, rhinoceros, wild ass,
flamingoes, monkey, antelopes, wild sheep, etc are found here.
Rhinoceros is a rare wild animal which can be seen in Kaziranga
Park. Indian lions can be seen in Gir forests. Our forests are full of
colourful birds like peacocks, cranes, ducks, pheasants, pigeons,
hourbills, cuckoos and many more. Elephants are found in the
forests of Kerala, Karnataka, Tamilnadu and in Assam. For the
preservation of wild life, National Parks and Sanctuaries have been
developed.
4. Tick (3) the correct alternative :
Ans.
(a) Monsoon is a word of :
(i) Hindi
(ii) Urdu
(iii) Arabic
3 (iv) English
(b) Monsoon means :
(i) winds laden with vapours
(ii) sea winds
(iii) land winds
(iv) seasons
3
(c) The duration of the rainy season in India is :
(i) From December to February
(ii) From March to May
(iii) From June to September
3
(iv) From October to November
(d) Sandalwood is the product of :
3
(i) Evergreen Forests
(ii) Deciduous Forests
(iii) Thorn Forests
(iv) Himalayan Forests
5. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Elephant
Kerala
2. Lion
Gir Forests
3. Rhinoceros
Kaziranga
4. Tiger
Sundarbans
5. Mangrove Trees
The Tidal Forests
6. Silver Fur
The Himalayan vegetation
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Unite - II History (Human and Society in the Ancient Period )
9.
Sources of History
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What is meant by prehistory?
Ans. All that is not recorded in writing is called prehistory. The period of
prehistory is much longer than the recorded history.
(b) What is archaeology?
Ans. Archaeology is a branch of knowledge that examines the physical
remains of the past and gathers evidence.
(c) What is historical period?
Ans. The period after the invention of writing is known as historical
period. It has three main stages–
(i) Ancient period
(ii) Medieval period
(iii) Modern period
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) What is meant by the sources of history?
Ans. The means that provide us the information about the ancient history
are called sources of history. These sources give us knowledge
about our past from the things man used or the surroundings in
which he lived.
(b) How do historians write history?
Ans. The historians write history with the help of evidence. Information
is extracted from the evidence through critical analysis and rational
outlook. They take the help of archaeological and literary source
materials to write history.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) What is meant by secular literature?
Ans. Poems, plays, travelogues and works on politics and science are
non-religious in nature, So they are called secular literature. The
Arthashastra of Kautilya, the Indika of Megasthenes, the works off
Kalidasa and the account of Fa-Hien and Hiuen Tsang are some of
the examples of secular literature.
(b) Write a brief note on archaeological sources of history.
Ans. Archaeology is a branch of knowledge that examines the physical
remains of the past and gathers evidence. Many physical remains
of the past are buried under the ground as tools, weapons, bones and
the caves where earlyman lived. The archaeologists provide source
material of cultural history to historians and find out the physical
remains from under the ground with the help of various scientific
methods. These scientific methods survey, exploration and
excavation. The archaeological sources are inscriptions,
monuments and other objects.
1.
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10.
Primitive Man
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What did primitive man originate on the earth?
Ans. The primitive man originated just 5 million years ago on the earth.
(b) Where did early man take birth for the first time?
Ans. According to Anthropologists, the early man take birth in Africa for
the first time.
(c) What are the main divisions of the Stone Age?
Ans. The stone age is divided into four periods– Palaeolithic, Mesolithic,
Neolithic and Chalcolithic.
(d) Man of which age invented fire?
Ans. Man of Palaeolithic Age or the old stone age invented fire.
(e) In which age the wheel was invented?
Ans. The wheel was invented in Neolithic Age.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Why is the period of stone is called the Stone Age?
Ans. Since the stones were used on a large scale by the early man, the
prehistoric age is known as the stone age. He used tools to defend
himself from the wild animals and for hunting. Initially, the tools
made of stones were crude and unpolished. The old stone age lasted
for a long time.
(b) Why did man of Palaeolithic Age lead a nomadic life?
Ans. Man of Palaeolithic Age led a nomadic life because at that time he
was very much dependent on nature. He moved from one place to
another in search of food. He lived by hunting and food gathering.
He ate raw meat along with fruits and vegetables. At night he slept
in caves or on trees. He made crude weapons of stones to defend
himself from the wild animals.
(c) What were the benefits of the discovery of fire to man?
Ans. The discovery of fire changed the life of early man. He learnt to
kindle fire by rubbing together two pieces of stones. He used fire to
protect himself from cold, wild animals and later used it to cook
food.
(d) Why is the invention of wheel called the major achievement of
the Neolithic Age?
Ans. The invention of wheel is called the major achievement of the
Neolithic Age. The wheel made the man's life easier. Man could
now travel from one place to another much faster than before. He
could easily transport heavy objects. The potter's wheel came into
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use in the Neolithic Period.
(e) What was the cremation rite of deals in the Stone Age?
Ans. In the stone age, dead bodies were either buried or burned. In South
India, the graves were marked with huge rectangular blocks of
stones. The dead were also worshipped by the early man.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) State the chief feathers of the New Stone Age.
Ans. The New Stone Age or Neolithic Age lasted between 8000 B.C. to
3500 B.C. In this age, man did a lot of progress. His tools became
better and improved. The weapons were pointed and had crescent
shaped blades. Man started to lead a sattled life most important
discoveries of this age were taming of animals, covering of body
with leaves and hides, use of tools, formation of settlements,
cultivation of crops, making pottery and emergence of religion
beliefs.
(b) Compare the life of early man of Palaeolithic and Neolithic Age.
Ans. The life of man is Palaeolithic Age was very much dependant on
nature. He was a nomad. He moved from one place to another in
search of food. He used crude stones to save himself from wild
animals and hunting. He used to cover his body only in winters to
keep himself warm. He ate raw meat, vegetables and fruits as his
food. While the life of man in Neolithic Age was better and
improved. Their tools were pointed, and had crescent shaped
blades. They started to lead a sattled life, to tame animals, to cover
their bodies with leaves and hides, to cultivate the crops and to
make pottery.
(c) Write a brief note on Chalcolithic age.
Ans. The period when early man used both stone as well as copper is
known as the Copper Stone Age or the Chalcolithic Age. This
period was very important because man began to use metal as well.
Copper was the first metal discovered by man. Chalcolithic Age is
often regarded as a transitional phases as it was soon followed by
the Bronze Age.
(d) How did the invention of wheel help man?
Ans. The invention of wheel was a very crucial achievement of the
Neolithic man. The wheel made man's life easier. There is no
definite clue available where ane when wheel was discovered or
invented. It is possible that a stone or log rolling downwards gave
this idea. Nevertheless, man could now travel from one place to
another much faster than before. He could easily transport heavy
objects. The potter's wheel came into use in the Neolithic Period.
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(e) How did man learn to cultivate crops?
Ans. Man learnt to cultivate crops in Neolithic Age. How did he come to
know about cultivation is not known. It is guessed that discarded
seeds might have sprouted and suggested the link between seed and
plant to the man. Wheat and barleys were the first cereals grown.
Thus from a food gatherer man became a food producer.
4. Tick (3) the correct alternative :
Ans.
(a) From which continent early man spread to other continents?
(i) Asia
(ii) Europe
(iii) Africa
(iv) Australia
3
(b) What was the main benefit of fire to man?
(i) caves were kindled
3
(ii) convenience in hunting
(iii) agriculture became easier
(iv) invention of wheel
(c) What is that which divides the Palaeolithic Age and Neolithic Age?
(i) invention of fire
(ii) development of agriculture
(iii) religious beliefs
3
(iv) progress
(d) Nomadic life means :
(i) to lead a settled life
(ii) wandering from one place to another
3
(iii) to cultivate
(iv) rearing of animals
5. State 'True' or 'False' against the statements :
Ans. (a) Primitive man fully depended on nature.
(True)
(b) Early man used to live in groups for fighting.
(False)
(c) The invention of fire is traced to the Neolithic Age.
(False)
(d) Early man was adept in painting.
(True)
(e) Wheel was invented in the Neolithic Age.
(True)
(f) Natural object like animal or plant was taken as totem of
the clan or family.
(True)
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11.
Early Non-Indian Civilization
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What is known as Bronze Age?
Ans. Bronze was discovered after copper. Bronze was widely used in the
making of tools and other implements used in agriculture and
carpentry, it is known as Bronze Age.
(b) What was urban revolution?
Ans. During the Bronze Age, cities, towns, writing, architecture and
other skills were developed. The development of cities gave birth to
exchange and currency was evolved for trade. This was called
urban revolution. Which gave the idea of governance.
(c) Which country is known as the Gift of Nile?
Ans. Egypt is known as the Gift of Nile.
(d) Who were called Pharaohs?
Ans. Egyptian kings were thought to be devine, incarnations of the God
'Horus'. So they were called 'Pharaohs'.
(e) Give two names of temples in Egypt.
Ans. Abu Simbel and Karnak were two temples in Egypt.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Why did early civilization emerge in river valleys?
Ans. Ancient civilization of the world emerged and evolved in river
valleys of different parts of the world. Abundant fertile land and
fodder was available in these river valleys. The rivers also supplied
ample water and easy way of transportation. So early civilization
emerged in river valleys. Therefore, they are called the Cradle of
Civilization.
(b) State the major river valley civilizations?
Ans. The major river valley civilization were: The Tigris-Eupharates
Civilization in Mesopotamia, The Nile Valley Civilization in
Egypt, The Indus Valley Civilization and the Hwang-Ho
Civilization in China.
(c) Why was the main occupation of Egyptians agriculture?
Ans. The chief occupation of Egyptians was agriculture. The Egyptians
did not depend only on the Nile. Several canals, dams and
reservoirs were also constructed for irrigation. Their chief crops
were wheat, barley and millet. Fruits and vegetables such as dates,
apples figs, onion, garlic and cucumber were grown.
(d) What was the effect of the urban revolution?
Ans. Urban revolution gave birth of the cities, towns, writing,
architecture and other skills. The development of cities gave birth to
exchange and the currency was evolved for trade. The urban
revolution gave the idea of governance. Besides it, the concept of
community, society, culture and nation also emerged.
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(e) What do you know about the pyramids of Egypt?
Ans. Pyramids were built by Pharaoh Cheops (khufu) in 2650 B.C. They
are among the seven wonders of the world. The Pyramids are the
tombs of Pharaohs, they contained mummies of the kings and other
precious things they used.
3. Answer the following question in 80 words :
(a) Given an account of the social and economic condition of the
Egyptian Civilization.
Ans. Pharaohs were supreme and was treated like God in Egyptian
society. His statue were installed in the temples and his deeds were
inscribed on the walls. His words were laws. Then came the priests.
Next came the nobles and officials and then the artisans and farmers
women were given full rights in property and even reaching the
throne. At the bottom there were slaves, who were mostly war
captives.
The economic condition of Egyptians was also very good. Their
main occupation was agriculture. Several canals, dams and
reservairs were also constructed for irrigation. Wheat, Barley and
millet were the chief crops besides fruits and vegetable. Besides
farming, the farmers reared animals, Pottery making, spining,
weaving, glass making, carpentary, metal working, poultry farming
and fishing were some other occupations, Egyptians would trade in
cotton, gold, silver and ivory on a large scale. Foreign trade was the
monopoly of the king.
(b) What were the religious beliefs of ancient Egyptians?
Ans. Religion had a special position in the life of Egyptians. They
worshipped a number of gods and goddesses, the most important
being the Sun God, Re. They worshipped other natural forces also.
The pyramids are the symbols of their belief in life after death. That
is why the mummies of kings and nobles were lavishly done up and
preserved in the Pyramids.
4. Fill in the blanks with the words given in the box :
Nile
Pyramids
Solar Calendar
Pharaohs
Ans. (a) The Pyramids are the burial chambers of the Egyptian kings.
(b) Egypt is called the gift of the Nile.
(c) The kings of Egypt were called Pharaohs.
(d) Egyptians devised the Solar Calendar.
5. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Bronze
Alloy of copper and tin
2. Egypt
Country
3. Nile
River
4. Sahara
Desert
5. Re
The Sun God
6. Pyramids
Tombs of Pharaohs
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The Mesopotamian Civilization
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) Name the rivers between whose plains the Mesopotamian
Civilization grew up.
Ans. The Mesopotamian Civilization grew up between the rivers Tigris
and Euphrates.
(b) What is mean by Mesopotamia?
Ans. The word Mesopotamia comes from the Greek word meaning 'the
land between rivers.'
(c) What is the location of Mesopotamia?
Ans. The fertile land where The Mesopotamia Civilization grew up is
now known as Iraq, Northern Syria, and Southern Turkey in West
Asia.
(d) What is Ziggurat?
Ans. Ziggurat was a temple dedicated to the god of the city was used to be
built with many high storeys. Ziggurat means the hill of paradise.
(e) Why is Hammurabi famous?
Ans. Hammurabi is famous for many reforms. His compilation of laws,
known as 'Code of Hammurabi consisting of 300 codes of law, are
inscribed on a stone slab.
2. Answer the following question in 40 words :
(a) When and where did the mesopotamian Civilization emerge?
Ans. The Mesopotamian Civilization emerged about 4000 B.C. on the
fertile plain land between the rivers Tigris and Euphrates which is
now Iraq, Northern Syria and Southern Turkey in West Asia. It
lasted till 539 B.C. These rivers brought a plentiful supply of water
and fertile soil which enabled this civilization to grow.
(b) What were the classes in the society of the Mesopotamian
Civilization?
Ans. The society of the Mesopotamia was devided into four main classes
of upper, middle and lower. At the top was king and his family. The
king was considered to be the representative of God on the earth.
The lower class consisted of slaves, mostly prisoners of war. After
the king, the priests occupied the next place of importance.
Officials of the king came next. Then came the farmers, artisans and
traders. Women were treated well.
(c) What was special about Hammurabi's code of law?
Ans. Hammurabi introduced many reforms. His compilation of laws
known as 'Code of Hammurabi' consisting of 300 codes of law, are
inscribed on a stone slab.
(d) How did the Mesopotamian Civilization come to an end?
Ans. The Mesopotamian Civilization came to an end in 539 B.C. when
Persian invaders captured Babylon and it became a part of Persian
Empire. In 331 B.C. it was absorbed in the empire of Alexander the
Great.
1.
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3.
Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Describe the social and economic condition of the people of the
Mesopotamian Civilization.
Ans. The society of the Mesopotamia was devided into four main
classes, upper, middle and lower. The king was considered to be the
representative of God and the priest was next to the king. Officials
of the king had the next place after the priest. Then came the
farmers, artisans and traders. The women were treated well. The
lower class consisted of slaves, mostly prisoners of war.
The main occupation of the Mesopotamia was the agriculture. They
had fertile land, ample water and means of irrigation. To check the
floods in the rivers The Euphrates and The Tigris, The
Mesopotamians built canals and reservoirs. Farmers grew barley,
corn, dates, fruits and vegetables. Wheat was grown by the
Mesopotamians first time. They reared animals to get help in
agriculture and in order to get milk and meat. They had flourishing
trade and commerce. They imported raw material from outside and
made goods and sold them both at home and abroad. They had trade
relations with Harappan Civilization also.
(b) Write a brief note on the religious beliefs of the Mesopotamians.
Ans. The people of the Mesopotamian civilization believed in many
gods and goddesses. Each city had its own god. They worshipped
the different forces of nature. They also believed in life after death.
The temple of the god of the city. Ziggurat was built on a very high
place. Ziggurat was considered the centre of religion and
administration. The priest sat here and observe the stars. The
Mesopotamians burried the dead with many articles. Since they
believed that the dead may need these things on their journey to the
next world.
(c) What were the major achievements of the Mesopotamian
Civilization?
Ans. The Mesopotamians were very advance in science and technology.
They built canals and reservoirs to check the floods. They knew
mathematics, geometry and astronomy. They developed a lunar
calendar of 12 months with 30 days each. It had 11 days less than
modern calendar. They also invented sexagesimal system. The
Mesopotamians contributed a lot in the field of architecture. The
Hanging Gardens created by them are one of the seven wonders of
the world. Potters wheel was first used by these people. They
established big cities having a royal palace for the ruler and a
Ziggurat built by sun-baked clay bricks. The sumerians were the
first people who developed a system of writing know as
'Cuneiform'. It was a wedge shaped script, written from left to
right with a pen of reed of bone on clay tablets.
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4.
Underline the correct answer :
Ans. (a) Hammurabi was a (king / god ).
(b) Cuneiform was a system of (painting / writing).
(c) The Mesopotamians were the first to use the (potter's wheel /
sphynx)
(d) The Mesopotamians believed in (one / many) gods.
(e) The Mesopotamians invented (decimal / sexagesimal system).
The Greek Civilization
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) Where is Greece located?
Ans. Greece is an important country in South Eastern Europe. It is
bordered by the Mediterranian Sea on the West.
(b) To which country did Alexander belong?
Ans. Alexander the great belonged to Greece.
(c) Name any four cities of Greece.
Ans. Sparta, Athens, Thebes and Corinth were the four important cities
of Greece.
(d) Who established democracy in Athens?
Ans. Pericles established democracy in Athens.
(e) Name both epics of Homer.
Ans. Two epics written by Homer are Illiad and Odyssey.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) To which age did the Greek civilization belong?
Ans. The Greek Civilization belonged to 2000 B.C. It is one of the major
Civilization of the Iron Age. Greece is actually the foundation of
Western Civilization. Many great Civilizations emerged in it in the
second millennium B.C.
(b) Who were the great mathematician of Greece? What did they
contribute?
Ans. Pythagoras, Euclid and Thales were great mathematicians of
Greece. Pythagoras gave the famous theorem of geometry.
(c) How was the social condition of the Greeks?
Ans. The social life in the cities of Greece were different from one
another. But a large number of slaves were the common features of
all the states. Society was devided among nobles, bemas and slaves.
Only the rich and nobles enjoyed the freedom, citizenship and the
right to vote. Bemas were traders, artisans and peasants. The lives
of slaves and women was pitiable.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Write a brief note on political organization and economic life of
Greece.
Ans. The Greek city states were called Polis. They were spread around a
citadel. A few rich men controlled the affairs of the state. This form
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of government is known as Oligarchy. Under the rules of Pericles,
the glory of Athens reached its greatest height. The government of
Greece was based on military power and it was compulsory for
every youth to take part in military training and to serve army. Later
in the 5th century 'democracy' was introduced.
The main occupation of Greeks was agriculture and the crops of
wheat, olive and linseed were grown, The oil of olive and linseed
was extracted. They reared sheep, goats and pigs. The Greeks
exported olive, wheat and wool. In exchange they imported gold
and silver. Coins were used for sale and purchase of things. They
used sea and river routes for trading with foreign countries.
(b) Give an account of the contributions of the Greeks to the
present civilization.
Ans. The Greeks greatly contributed to the present civilization. It is
called the foundation of the Western Civilization. Democracy was
introduced here in the 5th century. The citizens of a particular class
were allowed to take part in governance. The Greeks used coins as
currency first time. The present Olympic games are the legacy of
the Greeks, the first time Olympic games were started in 776 B.C.
Socrates, Plato and Aristotle were great Greek philosophers. The
Two best epics of the world the Illiad and the Odyssey were written
by Homer. Herodotus was considered the father of History.
Pythagoras gave the famous theorem of geometry. Eratosthenes
calculated the circumference of the earth. Hippocratic is known as
the father of medicines. Greece produced the great warrior
Alexander the great.
4. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Aristotle
Philosopher
2. The father of history
Herodotus
3. The Parthenon
Temple
4. Alexandria
City
5. Olympus
Mountain
6. Pythagoras
Geometry
7. Athene
Goddess
8. Zeus
The chief God
9. Hippocratic
The father of medicine
10. Eratosthenes
Circumference of the earth.
The Roman Civilization
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) In which continent does Italy lie?
Ans. Italy is an important country of Europe.
(b) On which river is Rome situated?
Ans. Rome is situated on the bank of the river, Tiber.
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(c) What do you know about the Roman senate?
Ans. The Romans are regarded as the founders of republicanism. It had
two consuls – the senate and the assembly. The senate was more
powerful and could control and veto the acts of the assembly.
(d) Name two classes of the Roman society.
Ans. Roman had two social classes one of them was Patricians and
another was Plebeians.
(e) Name any two gods which were worshipped in Rome.
Ans. Jupiter as the god of rain and Mars as the god of war were
worshipped in Rome.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Why is Italy called a bridge between Asia and Europe?
Ans. Italy is an important city of Europe which played a vital role of a
bridge in assimilating the cultures of Asia and Europe. The
Mesopotamian cultural heritage reached Europe through Italy.
(b) What was the use of the colosseum?
Ans. The colosseum were grand circular arenas. In these arenas, the
fighting between men and animals were shown. This was the source
of entertainment of the Romans.
(c) What were the religious beliefs of Romans?
Ans. The Romans were polytheist. Their cheif gods were Jupiter,
Minerva, Venus, etc. They worshipped these gods for the help. As
Jupiter the god of rain would give them water for crops. Mars
would help them in war, Juno would protect the women and
Mercury as the god of messages, would carry then messages to
distant places.
(d) Give an account of the economic condition of Rome.
Ans. The people of Rome were agriculturists. Some of them used to near
animals. Weaving of cloth, pottery and carpentry were other
occupations in Rome. Foreign trade was also well developed
because of it being of the coast of the Mediterranian Sea. Rome and
Venice were great centres of trade.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Write a brief note on the social and political condition of Rome.
Ans. There were only two social classes in Rome, one of them was
Patricians and second was Plebeians. Patricians consisted of elites
and rich people. They led a luxurious life. Farmers, artisans, traders
and soldiers belonged to the second class called plebeians. They
had limited rights and they were forced to pay tax. The political
condition of Rome was very strong. Julius Caesar in the first
century B.C. was the first military general to seize political power
for a brief period. After his assassination, his adopted son Augustus
set the Roman Empire on a sound footing. Romans are regarded as
the founders of republicanism. It had two consuls– the senate and
the assembly. The senate was more powerful and could control and
veto the acts of the assembly. The senate could control the
government treasury, implementation of laws and war operations.
The Roman administration was based on laws.
(b) Give a vivid description of the major achievements of the Romans.
Ans. The major achievements of the Romans are that they are regarded
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as the founders of republicanism. Foreign trade was also well
developed. Rome and Venice were great centres of trade. The
Romans were great exponents of laws. Most of the countries of the
world owe their present legal system to the Romans. Latin, the
language of the Romans became the common language of the
educated people of Europe. Rome produced great philosophers and
writers like Lucretius, Cicero and Aurelius. The encyclopaedia of
science known as Natural History was written by Pliny the Elder.
The Romans introduced excellent architecture.
Colosseum and Pantheon are the wonderful specimens of their
architectural skills. Romans were the inventors of concrete. They
knew how to cement bricks and stone together. They laid water
supply pipes in the towns. They made efficient roads and hot–baths.
Julius Caesar introduced a new calander in 45 B.C. It was the same
calendar which is being used now.
(c) How did the Romans contribute to the world in the legal field?
Ans. The Romans were great exponents of laws. There were Civil Law,
Law of people and Natural Law. The Romans had prepared the law
of Twelve Tablets as early as 450 B.C. Most of the countries of the
world owe their present legal system to the Romans. Romans are
regarded as the founders of republicanism. It had two consuls : the
senate and the assembly. The Roman administration was based on
law. The senate could control the government treasury,
implementation of laws and war operations.
4. State 'True' of 'False' against the following statement :
Ans. (a) Italy is a prominent country of Europe.
(True)
(b) The senate in Rome did not have any right.
(False)
(c) Julius Caesar was a great writer of Rome.
(False)
(d) Jupiter was considered to be the god of rain.
(True)
(e) Cicero is known as the father of Natural Laws.
(True)
5. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Plebeians
Lower class of the Roman society
2. Minerva
God
3. Vergil
Poet
4. Pliny the Elde
Natural History
5. Aquaducts
Water pipelines
The Chinese Civilization
1.
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) Name the rivers on which the Chinese Civilization grew up.
Ans. The Chinese Civilization grew up on the banks of three rivers the
Hwang Ho, the Yangtze and the XI Jiang.
(b) Name the early dynasties of the Chinese rulers.
Ans. The Zhou (Chou) Shang and chin are the early dynasties of the
Chinese rulers.
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(c) Who was the famous ruler of the Chin dynasty?
Ans. Shi-Hwang-ti was the famous ruler of chin dynasty.
(d) Who invented the Mariner's Compass?
Ans. Chinese people invented the Mariner's compass.
(e) Who built the Great Wall of China and when?
Ans. Shi-Hwang-ti built the Great Wall of China in 218-204 B.C.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Which river is considered the Sorrow of China and why?
Ans. Hwang-Ho is called the Sorrow of China because it brings
destruction along through flood and by changing its course.
(b) Describe different classes of the Chinese Society.
Ans. The Chinese society was divided into many classes, The emperor
was on the top. Below him were the scholars and intellectuals. The
third class was of farmers, traders and artisans. Lastly, there were
soldiers and slaves.
(c) Name two philosophers of China and their contribution.
Ans. Kung-Fa-Tze or Confucius and Lao Tse were two great
philosophers of China. Confucius preached moral values,
behaviour, loyalty and strict upbringing of the children. Taoism
sought the goal of mystical experience to bring a person in harmony
with nature.
(d) What is the importance of the Great Wall of China?
Ans. The great wall of China is a marvellous example of Chinese
architects. It is 6 meter high and 2400 km long. It is considered as
one of the seven wonders of the world. Two horses can run on it side
by side.
(e) What were the main occupations of the Chinese People?
Ans. The main occupation of Chinese people was agriculture. The
Chinese were excellent carpenters and artisans. They made
excellent Chinese porcelain pottery. The wood work of China with
ivory and metal work was famous. They also traded with
Mesopotamia and Persia.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Give an account of the political condition and religious beliefs
of the early Chinese.
Ans. The Chinese civilization is devided into dynasties. The Zhou
(chou), Shang and Chin are the early dynasties. During Shang
civilization, the Chinese culture attained new heights. Later Han,
Sui, Tang and Ming dynasties ruled China in successive order.
The Chinese people worshipped their ancestors as well as other
natural forces. They believed that their ancestors transformed into
all powerful souls. They would get then victory, good crop and save
them from epidemic and famine. Consulting oracles to know about
the future was in practice. Later Budhism spread in China.
Monastries and Pagodas were built in which Buddha was
worshipped. By and by Budhhism became the popular religion of
China.
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(b) Write a brief note on the social and economic life of Chinese
Civilization.
Ans. The Chinese society was devided into many classes. The king was
on the top. Below him were the scholars and intellectuals. The third
class was of farmers, traders and artisans. Lastly, there were
soldiers and slaves. Slaves did the work of construction of roads
and houses. Education was costly, so few people could avail its
benefits.
The economic condition of the Chinese people was very strong.
Their main occupation was agriculture. Crops of wheat, rice, millet,
tea and jute were grown. China was famous for the wood work
inlaid with ivory and metal work. Excellent porcelain pottery was
made here. The Chinese had flourishing trade connections with
Mesopotamia and Persia.
(c) Give and account of the contributions of the Chinese
Civilization to the world Civilization.
Ans. The Chinese were very advance in knowledge. They were first to
develop paper. The great wall of china in the excellent example of
their architectural skill. The Chinese developed their own script,
which is written upside down look like a painting. The Chinese
people taught the people of the world to make silk and porcelain.
Their porcelain pottery in famous the over world. The invention of
paper, ink and printing helped in the expension of knowledge in the
world. They introduced banking and paper currency first of all.
They invented gun powder, Mariner's compass, Jade and
seismograph. Windmill and Sundial were also made by them. The
Chinese were the first to make appointments to the civil services
through the competitive examinations. The whole world followed
this system subsequently.
4. Fill in the blanks with appropriate word :
Ans. (a) The Chinese Civilization is also known as the Shang
Civilization. (Shang / Chin)
(b) Shi-Hwang-ti belonged to Chin dynasty. (Chin / Zhou)
(c) The place of the king was at the top. (scholars / king)
(d) The economic condition of the Chinese people was strong. (weak /
strong)
(e) Ancestors were respected and worshipped in China. (Ancestors /
Successors)
(f) Taoism was propagated by Lao Tse. (Lao Tse / Buddha)
(g) The first printing machine was developed in China. (printing /
painting)
(h) The Chinese script it written top to bottom. (top to bottom / bottom
to top)
(i) Chinese introduced banking and paper currency for the first time.
(coins / paper currency)
(j) Confucius is also known as Kung-Fa-tze. (Kung-Fa-tze / Zen)
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Iranian Civilization
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) To which Civilization was the Civilization of Iran contemporary?
Ans. The Iranian Civilization was contemporary to the Mesopotamian
Civilization.
(b) Where did the Iranian Civilization emerge?
Ans. The Iranian Civilization emerged with the Persian Civilization and
developed in Iranian Plateau.
(c) Name three periods of the history of Iran.
Ans. The Iranian Civilization can be devided into three periods. The
early Iron Age Civilization was called Archaemenid Empire,
second was the Parthian Period and the third civilization was called
Sassanid Empire.
(d) What is the holy book of Parsis?
Ans. The holy book of Parsis is 'Zend Avesta'.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Who was Cyrus? Name the empire established by him.
Ans. Cyrus became the emperor of Iran in 600 B.C. by conquering
Kabul. He established the Archaemenid Empire and expanded it to
Asia. Cyrus came to power by overthrowing Mede in 6th century
B.C. Cyrus was killed in 530 B.C.
(b) What were the classes in the Iranian society?
Ans. The Iranian society was devided into four classes. The king was
supreme, who enjoyed arbitarary powers. Then came the place of
priest who assisted the king. Then there were Courtiers and
Officials. They led comfortable and affluent life. The farmers and
slaves belonged to lower class. Farmers were under landlords. The
whole system was based on oppression.
(c) What do you know about Zoroastrianism?
Ans. The Iranians gave a new religion which is called Zoroastrianism. It
was founded by Zoroaster or Zarathustra. The ideas and teaching of
this religion are contained in a book called Zend Avesta, now the
holy book of Parsis.
(d) What did the Iranian emperors do to develop agriculture?
Ans. The economy of Iran was based on agriculture. The land was under
the ownership of landlords, elites and priests. The rulers of Iran
provided irrigation facilities through canals to develop agriculture.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Describe the political and social condition of Iran.
Ans. The Iranian Civilization can be devided into three periods. The
early Iron Age Civilization flourished in Iran from sixth century
B.C. to about seventh century A.D. The Archaemenid Empire was
established by Cyrus. The second period of this civilization was
Parthian Period. The Iranian Empire extended largely in this period
and they made Persepolis its new capital. In the third century A.D.
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the Sassanid Empire came in power upto 650 A.D. The society of Iron
was devided in four classes. The king was at the top who enjoyed
arbitrary powers. He was assisted by Mega, a priest. Then came the
place of courtiers and officials. They enjoyed comfortable life. The
farmer and slaves belonged to lower class. the farmers worked under
landlords. The whole social system was based on oppression.
(b) Write a brief note of the economic condition and religious
beliefs of the Iranian people.
Ans. The economy of Iran was based on agriculture. The land was under the
ownership of landlords, elites and priests. The iranian people earned
money through trade also. There was local as well as foreign trade. The
currency was gold and silver coins. The mains source of the state
income was trade tax, agriculture revenue and excise tax.
The religious beliefs of Iranian people were similar to the Vedic
Civilization. Their gods and religious rites were like them. The Iranians
gave a new religion called Zoroastrianism. It was founded by Zoroaster.
It is now followed by Parsis. Their holy book is called 'Zend Avesta'.
(c) Give an account of the achievements of the Iranian people.
Ans. The Art and trade were on its zenith in Iran. Gold and silver coins
were used as currency. Silk was produced through sericulture. Iran
gave the system of revenue and excise tax. Grand buildings and
Palaces were built. The temple of Ahuramazda also known as the
Fire temple is a good example of architecture. The Iranians also
excelled themselves in the art of gem-cutting, metal carving, glass
moulding and in the weaving of precious clothes. Aramaic and
Pahlavi scripts were developed by them. The Iranian writers wrote
many treatises on philosophy, medicines and astrology.
4. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Cyrus
Emperor
2. Persepolis
Capital
3. Zarathustra
Founder of Zoroastrianism
4. Zend Avesta
The holy book of Parsis
5. The temple of Ahura Mazda
Fire temple
12.
Indian Civilizations
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) Where did the Harappan Civilization originate?
Ans. The Harappan Civilization was originated in the area of the Indus
valley.
(b) Name two cities of the Harappan Civilization.
Ans. Mohen-jo-Daro in the Larkana district of sind (now in Pakistan)
and Harappa is Montgomery district were two famous cities of the
Harappan Civilization.
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(c) When was the Great Public Bath used?
Ans. The Great Public Baths were the big bathing pools used by the
general Public on certain festivals.
(d) What is the name of the port situated in Gujarat?
Ans. The name of the port of situated in Gujarat is Lothal.
(e) Name the female deity of the Harappan Culture.
Ans. 'Shakti' or the mother goddess was the female deity of the Harappan
culture.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Where did we find the ruins of the Harappan Civilization?
Ans. We find the ruins of Harappan Civilization in Mohen-jo-Daro in the
Larkana district of Sind (now in Pakistan), Harappa in Montgomery
district, roper near Chandigarh, Lothal in Gujarat and Kalibangan
in Rajasthan.
(b) Describe the town planning of the Harappan Civilization.
Ans. The Indus Valley people were basically urban people. The ruins
show that the cities of this time were planned systematically. The
cities were devided into two parts. One of which was built on a
raised ground, called citadel. The other part, was big and on lower
ground. The streets were straight and they cut one another at right
angles. The cities had assembly hall, granaries and Great Public
Bath. Every house had kitchen, bathroom and latrine. Each house
had a courtyard, well and rooms. The houses were made of baked
bricks. The drainage system and sanitation arrangement was
excellent in cities.
(c) What do you know about the economic life of the people of the
Harappan Civilization?
Ans. The main occupation of the Harappan people was agriculture. They
generally cultivated wheat, rice, barley and cotton. They usually
traded with Mesopotamians. They used bullock carts and boats for
trade. The people were fully conversant with the art of spining,
weaving, pottery making and jewellery making. They used copper,
bronze, lead, tin, silver and gold but not iron.
(d) What were the religious beliefs of the Harappan people?
Ans. The Harappan people worshipped many gods, and goddesses.
'Shakti' or the Mother goddess was the female deity and male god
was 'Shiva Pashupati'. The Shiva Linga was also worshipped. Water
was considered holy and pious and was worshipped dead bodies
were burnt and buried. The worship of certain birds, trees and
animals was also prevalent in those days.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) What were the probable causes of the decline of the Harappan
Civilization?
Ans. The Harappan Civilization lasted about a thousand years. It
disappeared by about 1750 B.C. It is probable that this civilization
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might have been destroyed by regular floods. The change in climate
and in the course of rivers might have led this region to a desert.
Perhaps the Aryans attacked their cities. Historians attribute this
one of the reasons for the collapse of this civilization. It is also
possible that the earthquakes might have been responsible for the
destruction of the Harappan Civilization.
(b) Give an account of the contributions of the Harappan
Civilization to the Modern Civilization.
Ans. The contributions of the Harappan Civilization to the Modern
Civilization are as follows–
Town planning – The town planning of the Harappan Civilization
was outstanding and unparallel as such a system of town planning
was unknown to any other contemporary civilization. Many
countries in 18th century adopted this system.
Arts – The people of this age left a heritage of which we are really
very proud. They taught us the art of sculpture, painting, carving
and writing.
Science – The people of this age knew the method of house making
with bricks. They knew the science of engraving the inscriptions on
the seals. They were skilled craftmen to give colour, shape and
delicacy to the glazed pots.
Religion and Trade – Harappan people established the tradition of
idol worship. By establishing ports, they laid the foundation of
commercial relation through sea route.
4. State 'True' or 'False' against the following statements :
Ans. (a) The Harappan Civilization is also known as
the Indus Civilization.
(True)
(b) Mohen-jo-Daro is still in India.
(False)
(c) The lower part of the city was known as the citadel.
(False)
(d) The Harappan people domesticated animals also.
(True)
(e) Pashupati Shiv was worshipped during the Harappan
Civilization.
(True)
(f) The Harappan culture did not affect the life of the Indian people.
(False)
(g) The Indus Valley Civilization had well planned cities.
(True)
5. Tick (3) the correct alternatives :
Ans.
(a) Excavations for the Harappan Civilization began in :
(i) 1915 A.D.
(ii) 1919 A.D.
(iii) 1892 A.D.
(iv) 1921 A.D.
3
(b) In case of attack or flood, The Harappan people took shelter :
(i) in the Royal Place
(ii) in the battle ground
(iii) in the citadel
3 (iv) outside the town
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(c) The Great Public Bath was used :
(i) as bathroom for woman
(ii) as bathroom for men
(iii) as bathroom for the Royal Family
(iv) for public bath on festivals
(d) The Harappan people inscribed on seals :
(i) figures of deities
(ii) figures of kings
(iii) figures of warriors
(iv) figures of dancers
(e) The Harappan Civilization declined in :
(i) 1750 A.D.
(ii) 1750 B.C.
(iii) 1400 B.C.
(iv) 2600 B.C.
3
3
3
The Vedic Culture
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What is meant by the term 'Veda'?
Ans. Veda means the pious and spritual knowledge or wisdom.
(b) When did the Vedic Civilization originate in India?
Ans. Some historians have traced their origin to the nomadic people of
Central Asia. While some other historians claim their origin to the
Indus Valley people.
(c) What was the administrator of the larger kingdom called?
Ans. The administrator of larger kingdom was called Maharaj.
(d) What was the coin of the vedic age known as?
Ans. The coin of the vedic age was known as Nishka.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Name all four Vedas. Which one is the oldest?
Ans. The four Vedas are – Rig-veda, Samaveda, Yajurveda and
Atharvaveda. Rig-veda is the oldest in all of them. It is a great
collection of hymns composed by the priests between 1500 B.C.
and1000 B.C.
(b) What was known as the Vedic Region? State its extent.
Ans. The early vedic people were settled in East Punjab in the region
between the Satluj and Yamuna (north of Delhi) from Punjab the
Vedic people spread eastward into the Ganga Valley. Much later
they made their way to the south of the Vindhya Mountains. The
region where the Vedic Civilization grew and developed in known
as the Vedic Region.
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(c) What were smaller kingdoms in the Vedic period? After whose
name India was named?
Ans. During the early Vedic Period, the Aryans built only small
kingdoms like Bharata, Yadu, Puru and Patka. Our country is
named after the name of a king called Bharata.
(d) What do you understand by Sabha and Samiti?
Ans. During vedic period, two councils named the Sabha and Samiti
adviced the Raja in the matter of running the administration of the
kingdom. The Samiti was composed of all adult members of the
community while the Sabha was composed of great men of the clan.
(e) Write the names of all Varnas and Ashramas.
Ans. The society during the vedic period was divided into four varnas.
The priests (Brahmins), warriors (Kshatriyas), craftsmen, and
peasants (Vaisyas) and serf (Shudra). The four Ashramas were
Brahmacharya, Grihastha, Vanaparastha and Sanyas.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Describe the political organisation during the Vedic Civilization.
Ans. The early vedic people were war like people organised into tribes
rather than kingdoms. The kings of small kingdoms were called
Rajan and the kings of larger kingdoms Maharaj. Two counsils
called the Sabha and Samiti adviced the Raja in the matter of
running the administration of the kingdom. The post of Raja was
hereditary. The samiti held all the adult members of the community
while the sabha was composed of great men of the clan.
(b) Throw light on the social life of the Vedic Civilization.
Ans. The society during Vedic period was divided into four Varnas,
Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaisyas and Shudra. Later this system
changed into caste system.
The basic unit of the society was the family. The head of the family
was called Grihapati. The girls had a choice to select her husband
through Swayamwara. Women could take part in religious
ceremonies with their husbands. The property was devolved among
the heirs through succession.
The Aryans ate simple food as wheat, rice, pulses, fruits. Drinking
wine was considered bad. Gambling and Dices were their means of
amusement. The life was divided into four parts– Brahmacharya,
Grihastha, Vanaparastha and Sanyas.
(c) Write a brief note on the religious beliefs of the Vedic people.
Ans. The people of the early Vedic Civilization worshipped the natural
forces. Indra, Agni and Varun were the gods accepted by all. In the
later period, Yagna were performed under the royal patronage and
chanting of Mantra become essential. Purohits had special
position in religious rites. While sacrifices became important, the
ritual, become further complicated. Gradually the idea of Prajapati,
the creator, the Vishnu and Shiva, the destroyer all embodied into
one supreme God, gained importance.
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4.
Fill in the blanks with appropriate word :
Ans. (a) The Sabha was the assembly of the selected people of the
tribe. (Samiti / Sabha)
(b) The Aryans first settled in Punjab. (Uttar Pradesh / Punjab)
(c) The main occupation of the Vedic people was Agriculture.
(Agriculture / trade)
(d) Gambling was the most favourite amusement of the Aryans.
(Gambling / Dancing)
(e) Varnas transformed into Castes. (Clans / Castes)
5. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Sabha
A political institution
2. Rigveda
Religious book
3. Nishka
A coin
4. Grihapti
Head of the family
5. Saptasindhu
Plains of Punjab
13.
Indian History
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What is meant by Janapada?
Ans. Janapada were small states established by Aryans in the Northern
plains of India.
(b) Define the term 'Mahajanapada'.
Ans. Mahajanapadas were bigger states comprising many Janapadas. All
these Mahajanapadas had capitals from where the king
administered the affairs of the states.
(c) Write any four capitals of Mahajanapada.
Ans. Rajgriha, Mathura, Kashi and Koshambi were the four capitals of
these Mahajanapadas.
(d) To which ruler goes the credit of the rise of the Magadha Empire?
Ans. The credit of the rise of the kingdom of Magadha goes to its ruler
Bimbisara.
(e) Who ended the Nanda dynasty?
Ans. Chandragupta Maurya ended the Nanda dynasty.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Write the names of any eight Mahajanapadas.
Ans. Kuru, Panchala, Surasena, Matsaya, Anga, Kashi, Koshala and
Magadha were chief Mahajanapadas.
(b) Who was Ajatashatru? How did he extend the Magadha
empire?
Ans. Ajatashatru was the son of Magadha's ruler Bimbisara. He extended
the Magadha empire after conquering Koshala, Kashi and Vaishali.
1.
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(c)
Ans.
(d)
Ans.
Name any three Ganasanghas.
Vajji, Shakya and Malla were three Ganasanghas.
Describe the administration of Mahajanapadas.
During the Mahajanapadas period, the raja had a powerful position
in administration. His duty was to protect the subjects and to extend
the kingdom through war. He was assisted by the purohita and the
amatyas (ministers). The Koshadhyaksha collected the revenue and
taxes while the Senapati assisted the king in the war.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Distinguish between Mahajanapadas and Republics.
Ans. Mahajanapadas were bigger states comprising many Janapadas.
These states had their own capitals from where the king
administered the affairs of the state. The Janapadas which did not
have dynastic kings were called Republics. The executive head of
these republics was called Raja, who was chosen by the people
themselves.
(b) Describe the rise of the Magadhan empire.
Ans. The Magadhan empire became the most powerful kingdom of the
period after defeating other Mahajanapadas in war. The credit of its
rise goes to its ruler Bimbisara. After his death, his son Ajatashatru
made the empire of Magadha powerful and vast after conquering
Koshala, Kashi and Vaishali.
(c) Write a brief note on the social life of Mahajanapadas.
Ans. The people of Mahajanapadas period led a very simple life. Their
main occupation was agriculture. The main crops were wheat, rice,
barley, millet, cotton and sugar. Different arts and crafts also
flourished. Trade and commerce flourished with the invention of
silver and gold coins. The major income of state was tax.
Cultivators, traders and artisans had to pay tax. The varna system
was transformed into caste system. Many new castes were
developing. The caste system became rigid and hereditary. The
people of lower castes were looked down upon and were considerd
as achhut (untouchable).
(d) What were the reasons which led to the rise of Jainism and
Buddhism?
Ans. The varna system was transformed into caste system during this
period. The caste system was becoming rigid and was becoming
hereditary. Many new castes were also developing. The brahmins
dominated the society as the religious rites became complicated.
The people of lower castes were considered as achhut. As a protest
against these rites, superstious and evils, Buddhism and Jain
religious emerged. Both Gautam Buddha and Mahavir Swami
stressed upon good conduct, non-violence and equality.
4. State 'True' or 'False' against the following statements :
Ans. (a) There were 16 Mahajanapadas in Northern India.
(True)
(b) Gautam Buddha was born in Shakya Ganasangha.
(True)
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(c) Chandragupta Maurya owed the Credit of the rise of Magadha.
(False)
(d) Rajgriha was the Capital of Magadha.
(True)
(e) Chandragupta Maurya ended the Nanda Dynasty.
(True)
(f) The village headman was called Gramini.
(True)
(g) Big cities were called Pur.
(False)
(h) Marked coins of silver and copper were Ahatas.
(True)
(i) The guild of the craftsmen was called Mandal.
(False)
(j) Buddhism opposes rites, superstitions and social evils.
(True)
14.
The Period of Mauryas and Sungas
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) Who founded the Mauryan empire in Magadha?
Ans. Chandragupta Maurya founded the Mauryan empire in Magadha.
(b) Who was Chandragupta's teacher?
Ans. Kautilya was Chandragupta's teacher.
(c) Which Greek ruler was defeated by Chandragupta Maurya?
Ans. Alexander was the great Greek ruler, defeated by Chandragupta
Maurya.
(d) Who wrote Arthshastra?
Ans. Kautilya also known as Chanakya wrote Arthshastra.
(e) Who was Megasthenese?
Ans. Megasthenese was a Greek ambassador and the author of Indika.
2. Answer the following question in 40 words :
(a) How did Chandragupta Maurya found the Mauryan dynasty
in Magadha?
Ans. Chandragupta Maurya with the help of his teacher and chief adviser
Kautilya and with the help of a formidable force defeated the last
ruler Dhanananda in the battle field and laid the foundation of the
Mauryan dynasty in Magadha.
(b) What do you know about Chanakya?
Ans. Chanakya, a very able Brahmin, was a teacher of economics at
Taxila University. He was also known as kautilya or Vishnu Gupta.
He was the author of Arthshastra and afterwards, he became the
chief minister of Chandragupta Maurya.
(c) Why is Ashoka called great?
Ans. Ashoka is regarded as one of the most important and popular
emperor of India. He fought many fierce battles to extend his
empire. The death, destruction, bloodshed and devastation made
him a totally changed man. He adopted Buddhism and spent his
whole life in the service of mankind. He built Hospitals and
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Dharamshalas and got trees planted on both sides of the roads. He
dug wells. He gave best type of administration to his subjects as he
treated all his subjects like his own children and was always ready
to serve them. Therefore, he is known as Ashoka the great in the
history of India.
(d) Why did Ashoka adopt Buddhism. What did he do to preach
and propagate this religion?
Ans. Ashoka wanted to be Digvijay, so he fought many fierce battles but
the death, destruction, bloodshed and devastation made him a
totally changed man. He not only stopped wars but also killing of all
animals. He became a Buddhist under the guidance of his Guru,
Upagupta. After adopting Buddhism, he engraved the principles of
his Dhamma (Dharma) on rocks and pillars so that all should read
them carefully. He sent his son Mahendra and daughter Sanghmitra
to SriLanka to propagate Buddhism.
(e) Describe the social condition during Mauryan times.
Ans. The society of the Mauryan period was simple. The people led
comfortable and prosperous life. The emperors were great lovers of
their subjects. They protected the people irrespective of their faiths
and creed. The society was based on caste system. Brahmins had a
hold on the society. The people of vaishya society became very
affluent and enjoyed the similar position as Kshatriyas. During
Mauryan Age Hinduism had not yet taken its name but it continued
to prosper.
(f) Give an account of the economic condition during Mauryan
times.
Ans. Majority of people during Mauryan times were farmers. There were
also sheperds who looked after their animals and craftsmen like
carpenters, blacksmiths, weavers and potters. Traders carried their
goods to different parts of the country. They had business with
Syria, Rome and Babylon. The state regulated the trade with laws.
The government treasury depended on Tax.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) What are the causes of the decline of the Mauryan empire?
Ans. The Mauryan empire lasted more than a hundred years but within
fifty years of Ashoka's death the great Mauryan empire crumbled
into pieces. These were the following causes of Mauryan empire's
downfall–
1. Ashoka's successors were weak and inefficient, therefore they
could not manage the affairs of the vast empire.
2. Later Mauryan rulers spent a lot on the welfare of state and could
not collect taxes. It was also expensive to keep a large army.
3. The policy of Ahinsa weakened the spirit of the soldiers. Weakness
of the army invited foreign invaders.
4. Due to the absence of law of succession mutual rivalries weakened
the king's authority.
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5. The Mauryan empire was very vast. By and by central authority
weakened and the provincial governors became strong and
independent.
Due to these reasons, The Mauryan empire was led to downfall.
(b) Describe the Mauryan administration.
Ans. The Mauryan empire had an excellent administration. The king was
the highest authority. He was assisted by a Mantri Parishad. The
whole empire was divided into four provinces Magadha, Taxila,
Ujjayini and Swaranagiri. Each province was under the charge of a
prince. The administration of the district was looked after by
Sthanak and that of the villages by the village headmen, called
Gopa or Gramini. The various functions of administration were
carried out by Adhyakshas, Amatyas, Mahamatras, Pradeshakas,
Rajnkas and Yuktas.
(c) Write a brief note on the founding of the Mauryan dynasty.
Ans. Chandragupta Maurya with the help of his teacher and chief advisor
Kautilya defeated the last ruler Dhanananda of Nanda dynasty. And
thus became the undisputed ruler of Northern India in 324 B.C.
With the help of a formidable force Chandragupta Maurya laid the
foundation of vast empire which extended from Bengal in the last to
the Hindukush in the West and from the Himalayas in the North to
Mysore in the South. The founding of the Mauryan dynasty is an
important event in the history of India.
4. Match the columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Kautilya
Chanakya
2. Seleucus
General of Alexander the Great
3. Megasthenese
A Greek ambassador
4. Mahendra
Ashoka's son
5. Sanghamitra
Ashoka's daughter
6. Sudarshan
Lake
7. Taxila
Centre of education
8. Pushpamitra Sunga
Founder of Sunga dynasty
5. Fill in the blanks :
Ans. (a) The first ruler of the Mauryan dynasty was Chandragupta
Maurya.
(b) Chandragupta Maurya ended Nanda dynasty in Magadha.
(c) Chandragupta Maurya unified a vast empire.
(d) Kautilya wrote Arthshastra.
(e) Indika was authored by Megasthenese.
(f) Ashoka conquered Kalinga in 255 B.C.
(g) Ashoka the Great was a follower of Buddhism.
(h) Prince looked after the provincial administration.
(i) The society during Mauryan tiems was simple and prosperous.
(j) The national emblem of India has been taken from the Ashoka's
pillar at Sarnath.
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15.
The Megalithic Culture of South India
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) When was Iron used in India?
Ans. Iron was used in India in 1600 B.C. and Vedic people used it after
1000 B.C.
(b) How was the life of the megalithic people?
Ans. The megalithic people led a nomadic life in search of food and
hunting.
(c) Where did the Satavahana rulers establish their kingdom?
Ans. The Satavahana rulers established their kingdom between the rivers
Godavari and Krishna in Deccan.
(d) In which state did the Pandyas kingdom lie?
Ans. The Pandyas kingdom lied in Tamilnadu, the southern most part of
the country.
(e) Where was the kingdom of the Cheras?
Ans. The kingdom of cheras was around the Kerala region.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Who were Satavahanas?
Ans. Satavahanas were the rulers of Deccan. They ruled between the
rivers Godavari and Krishna with their capital at Partishthana. The
Satavahanas dynasty was founded by Simuka, Satkarni around 220
B.C.
(b) Describe about the Chola rulers.
Ans. Cholas were one of the three kingdoms of the Satavahanas. The
Cholas were around the area by the Caveri with their capital at
Kaveripattanam called Puhar. Rajraja and Rajendra chola were the
famous kings of this kingdom.
(c) How did the megalithic people bury the deads?
Ans. The megalithic people buried their deads with pottery and iron
articles. They also placed huge stones to mark the sites of burials.
(d) Give an account about the expansion of Indian Culture in
south-east Asia.
Ans. The rulers of South India established empire in the countries of
south-east Asia, therefore Indian culture spread there also. Indian
names, culture, religion and Sanskrit language became popular.
The Ramayana and Mahabharata were read extensively in these
countries. The Buddha Stupa in Java and Ankorvatt temple in
Cambodia are the symbols of Indian culture in South-east Asia.
(e) Throw light on the life of the people of South India.
Ans. Most of the people of South India lived in villages and were
farmers. They used iron implement to plough their fields. Crops of
rice. pulses, sugarcane, fruits and spices were grown. Trade and
1.
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Industry were in advance stage. Pearls, valuable stones, spices,
wood, ivory, etc. were exported to western countries.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) What was the importance of the Satavahana kingdom?
Ans. During Satavahanas kingdom, trade prospered very much. The
trade relations with South-East Asia and western countries had also
been established. They carried out muslin, cotton and spices to
Persia, Iraq, Arabia, Egypt and Rome.
The Satavahana rulers were ardent lover of art. Stupas, Veharas and
Chaityas were built at this time. The stupa of Amravati was much
larger and more beautifully decorated than the one at Sanchi. Bhoja
cave temple and chaitya hall at karle (both near Pune) are the
examples of rock architecture of that time. Most of the people had
faith in Buddhism and Jain religion at that time.
(b) Briefly state about the Cholas, Pandyas and Cheras.
Ans. Cholas, Cheras and Pandyas were the three kingdoms of the South
of the Deccan and the Satavahana. The cholas were around the area
by the Caveri with their Capital at Kaveripattanam called Puhar.
Rajraja and Rajendra chola were famous kings.
The Pandyas were in the Southernmost part (now Tamilnadu) of the
country with their capital at Madurai. Nedunjeliyana was a famous
Pandya king.
The cheras were around the Kerala region with their capital at
cochin. The cheras were also known as Keralaputras. One of the
important chera ruler was Sengutturan or the Red chera.
(c) What is meant by Sangam literature? Name two important
works of this literature.
Ans. The Pandya rulers used to hold assemblies of scholars, poets and
bards. The literature borne out of these assemblies is known as
'Sangam Literature'. Two thousand poems written in Tamil are
complied in the form of a book called Ettutogoi or commonly
known as Sangam literature. The greatest of the authors is
Tiruvalluvar who wrote Tirukkural. The pattapattu or ten long
poems is also a literary piece. The sangam literature is an important
source of the history of South India.
4. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Gautamiputra Satkarni
Satavahanas ruler
2. Pratishthana
Capital of the Satavahanas empire
3. Tirukkural
Sangam Literature
4. Pennar
River
5. Kaveripattanam
Capital of the chola empire
6. Madurai
Capital of the Pandyas
7. Nedunjeliyana
The Pandyas ruler
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8. Keralaputra
A Chera ruler
9. Sengutturan
Famous ruler of the chera dynasty
10. Arasar
The ruling class
11. Kadesiar
The other class
5. Fill in the blanks :
Ans. (a) The Satavahana kingdom was founded by Gautamiputra
Satkarni.
(b) Iron was used in 1600 B.C. in India.
(c) The Megalithic Civilization in south India began in 1100 B.C.
(d) Monuments of the heroes were called Veerakkal.
(e) The Chera rulers are also known as Keralaputras.
16.
North India after Mauryas and Sungas
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) Which foreign tribes invaded India?
Ans. The Indo–Greeks followed by Parthians, Sakas and Kushanas were
the important foreign invaders in India.
(b) Who was Menander?
Ans. Menander also known as Milind was the most powerful Indo Greek
ruler.
(c) Who was Kanishka?
Ans. Kanishka was the greatest of the Kushana king. He called himself
the Sun of Power.
(d) What kind of school of art evolved during Kanishka's reign?
Ans. The school of art evolved during Kanishka's reign was Gandhera
school of art. It had a Greek influence.
(e) Who built Gurud pillar?
Ans. Haliodorus built Gurd pillar in Basenagar.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Why was Kanishka famous?
Ans. Kanishka was the greatest of the Kushana kings. He called himself
the Sun of Power. He was a great warrior, Like Ashoka, he was also
the custodian of the religion of the Buddha. He contributed a lot in
developing literature, culture and art.
(b) What happened after the decline of Mauryas and Sungas?
Ans. After the downfall of Mauryas and Sungas, the doors of India
opened for the foreign invaders. The Indo–Greeks followed by
Parthians, Sakas and Kushanas invaded India.
(c) Give introduction of Rudradaman.
Ans. Rudradaman of ujjain was the most powerful Saka ruler. He loved
his subjects very much.
(d) How did Kanishka make Buddhism popular?
1.
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Ans. Kanishka was the follower of Buddhism. Like Ashoka, he was also
the custodian of the religion of the Buddha. He also took measures
to spread Buddhism in Tibet, Japan and Korea. He patronised the
new creed of Mahayana, as a result Buddhism developed to a great
extent.
(e) What was the extent of Kanishka's extent?
Ans. Kanishka conquered Kashmir, snatched Punjab and Mathura from
the Sakas and occupied certain portions of Magadha. Peshawar was
his capital.
3. Answer the following question in 80 words :
(a) Write a brief note on the Indo-Greek invaders.
Ans. Indo–Greeks were the first foreign invaders in India. In Indian
scriptures of this time Greeks were locally known as Yavanas. The
Indo-Greeks were the descendents of the Greek generals who ruled
over Bacteria (Balkh) and Parthia.
When the Mauryan empire declined they conquered some portions
of the Punjab and Sind. the Greek ambassador Haliodorus
described them as Kshatriyan, the warrior class to give them a place
in Hindu society.
(b) How did the Greek rule in India influence the Indian culture
and life?
Ans. The Greek rule in India influenced the India culture and life in the
following ways–
1. New vistas and roads of trade opened between the people of
India and Central Asia.
2. Indian people learned the technique of making gold coins and
their circulation from the Kushanas.
3. Indian adopted the apparel of short kurta, pyjama and long coat
of the Kushana rulers.
4. A lot of progress was made in the field of arts, science, literature
and Indian languages.
5. It led to the origin of the Gandhara school of arts.
6. Charaka and Sushruta made a contribution in the progress in the
field of medicines.
7. Panini and Patanjali contributed in the field or grammar and
yoga.
Thus many changes took place during this time in the social,
economic and cultural life of the people of India.
(c) Give an account of the Kushanas period.
Ans. The Kushanas were also a nomadic tribe, a branch of the Yeuh-cli
tribe. They left their original home the Chinese Turkistan and
defeated the Greek rulers of Afghanistan. They also defeated the
Sakas and Parthians to occupy the whole of the north-western part
of India. Kanishka was the greatest of the Kushana kings.
Puruspura (Peshawar) was their capital. Kanishka spreaded his
kingdom to Kashmir, Punjab, Mathura and some certain portions of
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Magadha. They followed the religion of Buddha. Later they
became Hindu. They marked their coins with the picture of Shiva
and Buddha.
4. Match of contents of the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Indo-Greek
Menander
2. Kushana
Kanishka
3. Parthian
Gondophernis
4. Saka
Rudradaman
5. Fill in the blanks :
Ans. (a) Haliodorus was a Greek ambassador.
(b) The Parthian invaders came from Iran.
(c) The Kushanas belonged to the Yeuh-cli tribe of China.
(d) The Capital of the Kushanas was Purushpura (Peshawar).
(e) Buddhacharita was written by Ashvagosha.
6. Tick (3) the correct alternative :
Ans.
(a) Through which pass did the invaders of Central Asia enter India?
(i) Karakoram
(ii) Neeti
(iii) Khyber-Bolan
(iv) Shipki
3
(b) To which dynasty did Rudradaman belong?
(i) The Indo-Greek
(ii) The Sakas
3
(iii) The Kushana
(iv) The Parthians
(c) Who is known as the patron of Buddhism?
(i) Kanishka
(ii) Menander
3
(iii) Rudradaman
(iv) Haliodorus
(d) Which Indian ruler defeated the Saka rulers?
(i) Ashoka
(ii) Chandragupta Maurya
(iii) Chandragupta Second
3
(iv) Samudragupta
(e) The Saka Calendar was started by :
(i) The Saka rulers
(ii) Buddha
3
(iii) The Parthians
(iv) Menander
17.
The Gupta Empire : The Golden Age
of Indian History
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) Who was the founder of the Gupta dynasty?
Ans. Maharaja Shrigupta was the founder of the Gupta dynasty.
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(b)
Ans.
(c)
Ans.
(d)
Ans.
(e)
Ans.
Who is called the Napolean of India?
Samudragupta is called the Napolean of India.
Whose son Chandragupta II?
Chandragupta II was the son of Samudragupta.
Which ruler erected the Iron Pillar at Mehrauli?
Chandragupta II is said to have erected the Iron Pillar at Mehrauli.
Name two works written by Kalidasa.
Abhigyan Shakuntalam and Vikramorvashiyan are the gems of
Sanskrit literature written by Kalidas.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Why is the Gupta period called an important event in the
Indian History?
Ans. The Gupta dynasty came into rule in the 4th century A.D. under the
Gutpa kings, India made such a progress is almost every field that is
regarded as the 'Golden Age'. The people lived a prosperous and
happy life. A great work in literature and science was done.
(b) Why is Samudragupta called the Napolean of India?
Ans. Samudragupta was a brave warrior. He fought about 100 battles and
by the dint of his strength, he defeated his enemies. Due to his
military achievements Samudragupta is called the Napolean of
India.
(c) What do you know about Chandragupta II?
Ans. Chandragupta II was the son and successor of Samudragupta. He
was a powerful ruler of gupta dynasty. After driving out the sakas in
388 A.D. from Ujjain, he took the title of Chandragupta
Vikramaditya (Sun of power). He started Vikrami Samvat
Calendar. He erected the Iron pillar at Mehrauli.
(d) Describe the religion during the Gupta period.
Ans. The Gupta kings had faith in Hinduism, therefore, under them,
Shaiva Dharma, Vaishnava Dharma and Shakta Dharma became
the religions of the common people. The Guptas, worshipped Lord
Vishnu. The 'avatara' cult also became popular. They also circulated
the coins marked with the pictures of gods and goddesses.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Why is the Gupta Age called the 'Golden age' of ancient India?
Ans. Under the Gupta kings, India made such a progress in almost every
field that is regarded as the 'Golden Age'. The administration during
this period was powerful and decentralised. The judicial system
was strict, though the punishments were mild. People lived happy,
comfortable and prosperous life. A great work in Sanskrit literature
was done during this period. Panchtantra, Mudra Rakshasam,
Amarkasha and Mrichhkatikam were some of the important
literature work of this period. Kalidasa was the famous poet of this
time. The Ajanta and Elora caves are an excellent example of the
architecture of this time. A great progress in the field of science was
also done during this period. Aryabhatta and Varahmihira were
great scientists and Mathematician of this age.
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The concept of zero and decimal system was given by the guptas.
Ayurveda, a system of medicines based on herbs and plants was
practised during this period.
In fact, Gupta period was one of the most prosperous period of
Indian history. Therefore, it is rightly called the Golden Age.
(b) Throw light on the administration system in the Gupta period.
Ans. In the Gupta empire, the king occupied a powerful and important
position. A council of ministers and other officials helped him. The
empire was divided into provinces, ruled by the governors, who
were advised and assisted by members from all districts. Districts
were further divided into villages looked after by the village
headmen. The administration was more decentralised. The judicial
system was strict, though the punishments were mild, yet there
were no crimes. There were two types of courts-civil and criminal.
Land revenues, which was the one-fourth of the produce, was the
main source of income of the state.
(c) What were causes of the downfall of the Gupta empire?
Ans. Chandragupta II was succeeded by Kumara Gupta. During his
reign, the Hunas, barbaric nomadic tribe of Central Asia, invaded
India. They were crushingly defeated by the prince Skandagupta,
but the later Gupta kings were not so strong. Ultimately, the great
empire of the Guptas came to an end.
4. State 'True' or 'False' against the following statements :
Ans. (a) The Gupta rulers were very brave and ambitious.
(True)
(b) Chandragupta– I was the first famous ruler of the Gupta dynasty.
(True)
(c) Samudragupta faught 50 wars / battles.
(False)
(d) Kalidasa was one of the Navratnas of Chandragupta II.
(True)
(e) Hieun- Tsang visited India during the Gupta period.
(False)
(f) The Gupta rulers were the followers of Jainism.
(False)
(g) Samudragupta got the Iron pillar at Mehrauli erected.
(False)
(h) The attack by Hunas was one of the causes of the downfall
of the Gupta empire.
(True)
(i) Tamralipti was an important sea-port on the west coast of India.
(False)
(j) The Gupta rulers were devotees of Vishnu.
(True)
5. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column 'A'
Column 'B'
1. Fa-Hien
Chinese scholar
2. Aryabhatta
Scientist
3. Vikramaditya
Title
4. Shrigupta
Ruler
5. Mukti
Province
6. Vaishnava
Devotee of Vishnu
7. Shaiva
Devotee of Shiva
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18.
The Period of Harshavardhana
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What was the name of the first ruler of the Vardhanas dynasty.
Ans. Prabhakarvardhana was the first ruler of the Vardhana dynasty.
(b) When did Harshvardhana ascend the throne?
Ans. Rajyavardhana was the son of Prabhakarvardhana after his death,
his younger brother Harshvardhana aseended the throne in 606
A.D.
(c) Which country did Hieun-Tsang belong to?
Ans. Hieun-Tsang belonged to China.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) How was the life of the people during Harsha's period?
Ans. During Harsha's period, the people led a comfortable and
prosperous life. The people were simple and honest. The caste
system was rigid. The main occupation was agriculture. Trade was
done via sea route and land route.
(b) Give an account of the assemblies held during Harsh's period.
Ans. Harshvardhana organised special assemblies at Kannauj and
Prayag in which Buddhist monks and scholars took part. At the end
of the assembly, he would give all his property in donation in the
fair of Magha to Brahmins every year.
(c) Who was Banabhatta?
Ans. Banabhatta was a great poet and a courtier in Harshvardhana's
reign. He wrote Harshcharita and Kadambari.
(d) Why is Harsh regarded the most generous emperor?
Ans. Harshvardhana was in practice of giving all his property to
Brahmins every year in the fair of Magha and he had to borrow
clothes from his sister Rajshri. Thus he is known as the Great
Generous king.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Describe the administration in Harsha's reign.
Ans. Besides being a skilled warrior, Harsha was also good
administrator. Headminestered his vast empire with the help of a
council of ministers. Harsha's empire was also divided into
provinces called Desh. Provinces were further divided into
Pradesh. Desh was governed by Kumaramatya while Pradesh was
governed by Ayukta. The judicial system was very strict. For some
crimes, death sentence was also awarded. Harsha looked after the
walfare of his subjects himself. Taxes were reasonable.
1.
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(b) Who was Hienu- Tsang? What light did he throw on Harsha's
reign?
Ans. Hiuen-Tsang was a chinese pilgrim, who came into India in the
period of Harshavardhana's reign. Harshvardhana held a Buddhist
council for 25 days to honour him. He wrote 'Si-yu-ki' which gives
us a detail information about Harshvardhana's kingdom. He also
tells us that the system of education was well organised in Harsha's
period. Hieun-Tsang studied in the Nalanda University for five
years.
(c) Give a brief account of the learning during Harsha's reign.
Ans. Harsha was a scholar himself. He patronised the great literati. He
himself wrote three plays in Sanskrit. Hieun-Tsang tells us that the
system of education was well organised in Harsha's period.
Elementary education was given in temples and Monasterics. The
Nalanda University, in Bihar, was most important and renowned
university during Harsha's reign. The expenditure of this university
was derived from the gifts and endowments from the kings and the
rich and from the revenue of 100 villages.
(d) Give a vivid description of the social and economic life of the
people during Harsha's period.
Ans. The social life in Harsha's reign was simple. People were simple,
honest and short tempered. The caste system was rigid Sati and
untouchability were prevalent. Travel by road was not safe. Monks
and hermits were honoured in the society. The people led a
comfortable and prosperous life. The main occupation of them was
agriculture, though trade was also flourishing through the sea route
and land route.
4. Fill in the blanks with the correct word (s) given in the brackets :
Ans. (a) Thaneshwara was situated in Kurukshetra. (Kurukshetra /
Nalanda)
(b) Harsha ascended the throne in 606 A.D. (606 / 615)
(c) Sati custom was prevalent in the society. (Sati / Balvivah)
(d) In the beginning, Harsha worshipped Shiva. (Kali / Shiva)
(e) Banabhatta was the court poet of Harshavardhaa. (Banabhatta /
Hieun-Tsang)
5. Match the contents of columns 'A' with those of column 'B' :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Harshacharita
Banabhatta
2. Chinese traveller
Hieun-Tsang
3. Thaneshwara
Birth place of Harsha
4. A sect of Buddhism
Vajrayan
5. Kannauj
Harsha's Capital
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19.
South India
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) Where did the Chalukyas found their kingdom?
Ans. The Chalukyas found their kingdom after the downfall of
Satavahanas between sixth and eighth centuries.
(b) When did Pulkeshin-II become the ruler?
Ans. Pulkeshin-II became the ruler in 620 A.D.
(c) Which religion did the Chalukyas follow?
Ans. The Chalukyas followed the Hindu religion.
(d) Where was the Pallavas kingdom?
Ans. The Pallavas kingdom was in South India.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Throw light on the art during the Chalukya dynasty.
Ans. The Chalukya dynasty was a great patron of art. The Chalukya
rulers built grand temples at Aihole, Badami and at Pattadakal. The
temples of veerupaksha and Pappanatha are beautifully decorated
with beautiful statues showing the story of Ramayana lively.
(b) What were the unique piece of architecture in Badami?
Ans. The famous Badami frescos in caves are unparalleled piece of
architecture which are influenced by Ajanta frescos.
(c) What do you know about the fame of Mahendra Varman?
Ans. Mahendra Varman was the king of Pallavas. He was defeated in the
war by Pulkeshin-II, the Chalukya king. Mahendra Varman was the
follower of Jain religion.
(d) Where did the Pallavas establish their capital?
Ans. The pallavas established their capital Kanchi near Mahabalipuram
in South India.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) What do you know about the Chalukya rulers?
Ans. After the downfall of the Satavahanas, many small kingdoms grew
up in Deccan. The Chalukyas was one of them. They ruled over
Karnatka and set up their Capital Vatapi. The Chalukya king
Pulkeshin-II defeated Harsha in 620 A.D. He ascended the throne in
608 A.D. He was the grandson of Pulkeshin-I. After his death, the
chalukya empire came to an end.
(b) Describe the social and economic conditions during the Pallava
period.
Ans. The chinese traveller, Hieun-Tsang visited Kanchi, the capital of
the Pallavas. In his Si-yu-Ki, he wrote that the people were honest
and followed Hinduism and the Buddhism. Some of them followed
Jainism also. Their king Mahendra Varman himself was a jain.
There after all the Pallava kings worshipped Shiva or Vishnu and
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believed in Hinduism. The temples were not only meant for
worship but these were the centres of cultural, spritural, social and
economic life of the society as well. All the social ceremonies were
performed in the temples. Schools were also attached to them. The
village mahasabha also held its meetings in the temples.
(c) Give a vivid description of the art and culture during the
Pallava period.
Ans. The Pallava king Narahimha Varman was fond of art and sculpture.
He built grand rock-cut temples at Trichi and Puddukotai. The
chariot shaped rock-cut temple at Mahabalipuram made him
immortal in Indian history. The Kailashanatha temple at
Kanchipuram is a beautiful example of the Pallavas architecture.
The temples were not only for worship but they are the centre of
education also.
4. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Vatapi
The Chalukya's capital
2. Manimekhlai
A literary work
3. Bharvi
Poet
4. Ratha Temples
Mahabalipuram
5. Kailashnath Temple
Kanchipuram
5. Fill in the blanks with the right word (s) given in the brackets :
Ans. (a) The most renowned ruler of the Chalukya dynasty was
Pulkeshin-II. (Pulkeshin-i / Pulkeshin-II)
(b) The Rashtrakutas ended the Chalukya dynasty. (Pallavas /
Rashtrakutas)
(c) The Chalukya frescos were decorated with the scenes from
Ramayana. (Ramayana / Mahabharatha)
(d) Hieun-Tsang, the Chinese traveller, visited the court of PulkeshinII. (Hieun-Tsang / Fa-Hein)
(e) Mahendra Varman was the follower of Jainism. (Jainism /
Hinduism)
6. Tick (3) the correct statements and cross (5) the wrong ones :
Ans.
(a) Pulkeshin-I was the contemporary with Harsha.
5
(b) Harsha routed Pulkeshin-II.
5
(c) The Chalukya dynasty came to an end in 753 A.D.
3
(d) Vatapi was centre of learning in that period.
5
(e) Followers of Buddhism came to India from Iran.
5
(f) The Pallavas were the vassals under the Satavahana rulers.
3
(g) Narasimha Varman was Mahendra Varman's son.
3
(h) Hieun-Tsang visited the Chalukya and the Pallava kingdoms. 3
(i) The rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram, were built
3
by the Pallavas.
(j) The Tamil saints were patronised by the Chalukya rulers.
5
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20.
Cultural Relations of India
with the outside world
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What is meant by 'Greater India'?
Ans. The areas of South Asia, West Asia and South East Asia formed
Greater India.
(b) Where did we get the evidence of India's contact with the
western countries?
Ans. We got the evidence of India's contact with the western countries
from the articles excavated at Harappa.
(c) Why is Java famous?
Ans. Java is famous for the dramatisation of the Ramayana and the
Mahabharata, the two epics, though a bit differently.
(d) With which countries relations were established owing to
Buddhism?
Ans. The countries relations were established owing to Buddhism were
Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Java, China, Thailand, Tibet and Malaysia.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Where did Ashoka send missionaries to preach Buddhism?
Ans. Ashoka sent missionaries to preach Buddhism to Sri Lanka, China,
Thailand, Tibet and Malaysia.
(b) What things did Romans import?
Ans. Romans imported Indian spices, fine muslin, pepper, pearls,
precious stones, gems, tortoise, shells and ivory.
(c) Whose statue was damaged by Vandals in Afghanistan?
Ans. The large statue of Lord Buddha at Bamiyan was damaged by
Vandals in Afghanistan.
(d) Name the travellers who came to India from China.
Ans. The travellers who came to India from China were-Fa-Hien, HieunTsang and Itsing.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Describe India's relations with the west.
Ans. India has trading and cultural relations with western countries. The
exchange of the social, religious, economics and cultural ideas took
place between them. With the Alexander's invasion of India in 326
B.C. India came in close contact with the Greeks. Ashoka also sent
preachers to five western countries to preach Dhamma. Indian
spices, fine muslin, pepper, pearls, precious stones, gems, tortoise,
shells and ivory were in great demand with the Romans. In return,
the Romans had to pay in gold for Indian goods. In this way, the
Roman wealth drained into India.
(b) How did India's contact expand with central Asia?
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Ans. In the process of cultural and commercial exchange, the people
broke down the natural barriers of high mountains and plateaus
between India and central Asia. The invaders coming from central
Asia adopted Indian religion and spread the Indian philosophy,
religion, culture and thoughts to central Asia. The ruler of this
region had Indian names. Their language was Sanskrit. The
preachers sent by Ashoka propagated Buddhism throughout this
area. At that time, Afghanistan was the centre of Buddhism and
Gandhar was the centre of art.
(c) Describe the expansion of Indian Civilization and Culture in
South-East Asia.
Ans. Sri Lanka is India's neighbouring country in South. Ashoka
propagated Buddhism here extensively. Along with Buddhism,
Indian culture, philosophy and life style also reached SriLanka.
Other countries of Asia such as China, Thailand, Tibet, Malaysia
were also influenced by Indian culture and civilization. Indians
taught the Chinese people the cultivation of cotton crop and
drawing the portrait of Buddha while Indians learnt the method of
the making of paper and sericulture. The relations between the
rulers of India and South East Asia were always cordial. Students of
these countries came to the centres of learning at Kashi, Nalanda,
Vikram Shila and Udantpuri. These countries adoped many Indian
tradition into their native customs.
4. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Victory of Dhamma
Ashoka
2. Angkor Vatt
A temple devoted to Vishnu
3. Borobodur
Stupa
4. Buddha Ghosha
Jataka tales
5. Bamiyan
Statue of Buddha
5. Tick (3) the correct choice and cross (5) the wrong ones :
Ans. (a) The Indian Civilization has no place among the oldest
Civilizations of the world.
5
(b) The Arabs acted as a bridge between Europe and India.
3
(c) The Harappan people had trade relations with Mesopotamia.
3
(d) The Roman wealth did not drain into India due to trade.
5
(e) Angkor Vatt in Cambodia.
3
6. Fill in the blanks :
Ans.
(a) Muslim empire was founded in India in 600 A.D.
(b) Bamiyan is situated in Afghanistan.
(c) Brahm Desh was also known as Myanmar (Burma).
(d) Itsing was a Chinese traveller.
(e) The stupa of Borobodur is in Java (Indonesia).
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21.
Major Religions of the World (Hinduism)
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What is meant by religion?
Ans. Religion is a particular system of faith and worship of a god or gods,
who has / have created the universe. The adoption of spiritual and
moral rules is also religion.
(b) What is God known as in Hinduism/
Ans. God is known as the Parama Brahma in Hinduism.
(c) What is the ultimate aim of the human life according to
Hinduism?
Ans. The ultimate aim of the human life according to Hinduism is to
achieve 'Moksha' or salvation, freedom from the agonies of births
and deaths.
(d) Which God comprise the Trinity of Gods in Hinduism?
Ans. Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva (Mahesh) comprise the Trinity of Gods
in Hinduism.
(e) Which God is considered to be the 'Vighnaharta' in Hinduism?
Ans. Ganesha is considered to be the 'Vighnaharta' in Hinduism.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Write down the names of the major world religions.
Ans. The major world religions are Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism,
Sikhism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Confucianism and
Zoroastrianism.
(b) When does soul become Paramatma according to Hinduism?
Ans. After death, the soul leaves the body and converts into Paramatma
as soon as it meets Brahma.
(c) What do you know about Lord Vishnu?
Ans. Lord Vishnu brings this world up. He takes incarnations. Ten
incarnations of Vishnu are Matsya, Kurma, Varaha, Narsimha,
Vamana, Parashurama, Rama, Krishna, Buddha and Kalki. The
tenth incarnation, kalki is yet to come.
(d) What is the significance of philosophy in Hinduism?
Ans. Philosophy plays a vital role in Hinduism. The curiosity to learn
about soul, life, death and the god is called Philosophy. Upnishdas
are those books which elaborate on the philosophy of Hinduism.
Hinduism also believes in attainment of god through complete
devotion or Bhakti.
(e) What do you understand by 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakama'?
Ans. Hinduism emphasizes on the following of the ideal of Vasudhaiva
Kutumbakama. According to it the whole world is like a family.
1.
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Therefore a person ought to behave friendly and affectionately with
all the persons of the world.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Explain the concept of Trinity of gods in Hinduism.
Ans. The Hindus believe in Trinity of gods. It had led to the worship of
several gods among the Hindus. According to it Brahma creates the
creation Vishnu brings it up and Shiva destroys it. Vishnu takes
incarnations. Shiva is worshipped through Shiva Linga.
(b) Throw light on Ashramas System prevalent among the Hindus.
Ans. Hinduism suggests an ideal way of life leading to salvation, it is
called Vernashrama Dharma. It has following four stages of 25
years.
1. Brahmacharin – After childhood, the person leads austere student
life at the home of his teacher.
2. Grihastha – After completing education, one gets married to lead a
life of householder.
3. Vanprastha – The person gives up his householder life and gains
knowledge in the company of hermits.
4. Sanyasin – Liberating soul from material things the person leaves
his hermitage and becomes a homeless vanderer.
(c) Is Hinduism a pragmatic religion? If yes, why?
Ans. Hinduism is a pragmatic and ever changing religion. It adopts new
colours with changing times according to the circumstances.
Irrespective of caste and creed, Hinduism suggests an ideal way of
life leading to Salvation, it is called Varnasharama Dharma. There
is an emphasis on moral values and spiritual life. Hinduism believe
in religion tolerance or Sarva Dharma Sambhava. Everyone who
believes in Hinduism honours the religions of others and considers
them equal. Hindus believe that the whole world in like a family.
Therefore, a person ought to behave friendly and affectionately
with all the persons of the world.
4. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Natraja
Shiva
2. Goddess of learning
Saraswati
3. Goddess of wealth
Luxmi
4. Asuramardni
Durga
5. Upanishada
Philosophy
6. Bhagvata Geeta
Yoga Marg
5. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words :
Ans. (a) All religions have a common fundamental Similarity.
(Similarity / Dissimilarty)
(b) Hinduism is a Primeval religion. (New / Primeval)
(c) Shiva's spouse is Parvati. (Parvati / Luxmi)
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(d) Kailash mountain is worshipped as the abode of Shiva and Vishnu.
(Vindhyachal / Kailash)
(e) Hinduism advocates Sarva Dharma Sambhava. (Sarva Dharma
Sambhava / Partiality)
6. Tick (3) the correct choice and cross (5) the wrong ones :
Ans. (a) All religions aim at the welfare of the people.
3
(b) Hinduism does not consider God the Parma Brahma.
5
(c) The living being enjoys the fruit of its past deeds in accordance
with Hinduism.
3
(d) Vishnu is the creater of dance and music.
5
(e) Four Ashramas are Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha.
5
(f) The Geeta is an epic.
5
(g) Hinduism progressed remarkably during the Gupta Period.
3
(h) Kabirdasa is related to Bhakti.
3
(i) Nepal is not a Hindu state.
5
(j) Hinduism is polytheistic as well.
3
Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) When and where was Mahavira Swami born?
Ans. Lord Mahavira Swami was born at Kunda Grama in the city of
Vaishali (Bihar) in 540 B.C.
(b) What are the two sects of Jainism?
Ans. The two sects of Jainism are Shvetambaras and Digambaras.
(c) When and where was Gautam Buddha born?
Ans. Gautam Buddha was born at Lumbini in nepal in 563 B.C.
(d) What was the childhood name of Gautam Buddha?
Ans. The childhood name of Gautam Buddha was Siddhartha.
(e) What are holy scriptures of Buddhism?
Ans. The holy scriptures of Buddhism are Vinaya Pitaka, Sutta Pitaka
and Abhidhamina Pitaka.
(f) Who founded Sikhism?
Ans. Sikhism was founded by Guru Nanak.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Why was Mahavira called 'Jina'?
Ans. Lord Mahavira was called Jina or conqueror. He gained the
knowledge known as Kaivalya and began to preach his philosophy.
The final aim of life is to obtain Kaivalya. Through Kaivalya one
can escape the cycle of birth and rebirth. This religion is known as
Jain after Lord Mahavira.
(b) What is meant by Buddha?
Ans. Buddha means the person who has attained true knowledge. After
attaining the enlightenment, Gautam Buddha was called Buddha.
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(c) What is the difference between the sects Hinayana and
Mahayana?
Ans. Buddhism was divided into several sects of which the most
important are– The Hinayana and The Mahayana. The followers
of Hinayana strictly observe the teachings of Buddha, while the
followers of Mahayana worships the Buddha as a God.
(d) What is the difference between the sects Digambara and
Shwetambara?
Ans. Shwetambara are those who wear the white clothes and
Digambaras are those who do not wear any cloth.
(e) What is meant by 'Tri Ratna'?
Ans. Tri Ratna means that ultimate salvation can be obtained by
following three fold path of Right belief, Right knowledge and
Right conduct.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Describe the principles of Jainism.
Ans. According to Jainism the final aim of life is to obtain Kaivalya.
Through Kaivalya one can escape the cycle of births and rebirths.
Jainism suggests the following principal to achieve Kaivalya.
1. Tri-Ratna or three Gems – Ultimate salvation can be obtained by
following three fold path of Right belief, Right knowledge and
Right conduct.
2. Panch Mahavarta – Five rules of conduct enjoin upon everyone
the duty to abstain from stealing, from destroying any life, from
lying, from unchastity and from possessing any property.
3. Anckant – According to this principle, an all–pervading uniform
soul is present in all the objects, living or non living. Therefore nonviolence is the underlying principle.
4. Syadvada– Interpreting a thing in many ways in Syadvada.
5. Non-existence of God – Jainism does not believe in God or the
authority of vedas. The Jains believe that world exists from time
immemorial and it will continue to exist infinitely.
6. Rebirth– The Jains believe in the theory of births and rebirths, the
law of Karma and the theory of Transmigration of Soul. Therefore,
a person should lead a virtuous life.
7. Moksha or salvation– The aim of life is Moksha. It can be
achieved by following the teachings of Lord Mahavira.
(b) What are the teachings of Buddhism?
Ans. According to Gautam Buddha, the sufferings of the world are due to
desire. The liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth can be
achieved through the practice of four Noble Truths–
1. There is suffering in life.
2. Suffering is caused by desire for pleasure and craving for satisfaction.
3. Suffering and rebirth cease when such desires cease leading to
enlightenment or Nirvana, a blessed state in which peace, harmony
and joy are attained.
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4. The way to Nirvana in the Eight Fold Path. It is also called the
Middle Way. The path of Nirvana can be attained through :
1. Right understanding
2. Right thoughts
3. Right speech
4. Right conduct
5. Right occupation
6. Right Effort
7. Right Recollection
8. Right Mediation
Buddhism lay emphasis on avoiding both enjoyment and self
punishment. It emphasizes non-violence, brotherhood and the
doctrine of love. It emphasizes on disciplined life and morality.
Rituals and ceremonies have no place in Buddhism.
(c) What do you know about Lord Mahavira? Who founded
Jainism?
Ans. Lord Mahavira Swami was born at Kunda Grama in the city of
Vaishali (Bihar) in 540 B.C. At the age of 30, he renounced family
life and became an ascetic. For 12 years he wandered in forests and
in the 13th year, he gained the knowledge known as Kaivalya.
According to Jainism, the founder of Jainism was Adinatha; the
first Tirthankara and Lord Mahavira was the 24th and last of their
Tirthankara. Lord Mahavira was called Jina or conqueror and this
religion later came to be known as Jainism. Lord Mahavira
breathed his last in 428 B.C. Which is called his Nirvana. Only Lord
Mahavira preached this principles of Jainism, in the Jain Religion.
(d) Give an account of the life of Gautam Buddha.
Ans. Buddhism, one of the oldest religion of the world was propounded
by Gautam Buddha. Gautam Buddha was born at Lumbini in Nepal
in 563 B.C. His father's name was Shuddhodhana and mother's
was Mayadevi. He was married with a beautiful princess
Yashodhara. His son's name was Rahul.
Seeing the sufferings in the world, he renounced the world at age of
29years. This is called the Great Renunciation. He got
enlightenment in 527 B.C. under a banyan tree later named as
Bodhgaya. Buddha delivered his first discourse at Sarnath near
Varanasi. After attaining the enlightenment, he was called
Buddha. Buddha means a person who has attained true Knowledge.
The creed propounded by him, is called Buddhism and his
followers are known as Buddhists.
(e) Write a short note on Sikhism.
Ans. Sikhism was also originated in India. It was founded by Guru
Nanak (1469-1539). Sikhs believe in a single God who is immortal
creator of the universe and who has never been incarnate in any
form, and in the equality of all human beings; Sikhism is strongly
opposed to caste division. Though many castes are now found
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among the sikhs. Sikhism has also divided into two major sects. The
holy book of Sikhs is the Guru Granth Sahib. Guru Gobind
Singh instituted the Khanda-di-Pahul, the baptism of sword and
established the Khalsa, the company of faithful. The Khalsa wear
the five K's: Kesh, Kangha, Kirpan, Kachha and Kara, Sikh men
take the last name 'Singh' and women 'Kaur'.
4. State 'True' or 'False' against the following statements :
Ans. (a) Kunda Grama is in Nepal.
(False)
(b) The first Tirthankara was Adinath.
(True)
(c) Mahavira's father was Shuddhodhana.
(False)
(d) Buddha's father was Shuddhodhana.
(True)
(e) Gautam Buddha first discourse was at Sarnath.
(True)
(f) Mahavira was the 24th and last tirhankara of Jainism.
(True)
(g) Sikhism was founded in the 15th century.
(True)
(h) Langar is not related to Sikhism.
(False)
Judaism, Christianity, Islam,
Confucianism, Zoroastrianism
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) Who is the propounder of Judaism?
Ans. Moses was the propounder of Judaism.
(b) Where was Jesus Christ born?
Ans. Jesus Christ was born at Bethelem near Jerusalem in Israel.
(c) Who founded Zoroastrianism?
Ans. Zoroastrianism was founded by prophet Zarathustra or Zoroaster
of Iran.
(d) What is the real names of Confucius?
Ans. The real name of Confucius was Kung-Fo-Tzu.
(e) What is meant by Islam?
Ans. Islam, in Arabic means Submission and peace.
2. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Explain the teachings of Judaism.
Ans. The teachings of Judaism are–
1. The God is one who loves, His people and punishes them when they
go astray.
2. God is kind and He forgives a sinner if he repents.
3. Judaism believes in humanity, justice, mercy and good conduct.
4. Men should send his prayer to God by making a difference between
right and wrong.
5. Men should pray two times a day.
6. The prayer of Jews is, "Listem 0 Israel, our Lord is Jehovah and he
is one".
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7. jews believe in Messiah and that one day Messiah will appear on the
earth and purify the Hebrews and cleanse the world of its sins and
wickedness.
(b) Describe the beliefs of the Parsis.
Ans. The beliefs of Parsis are–
1. God is one in form of Ahura Mazda. Which means light and
wisdom.
2. Ahura Mazda is personified as the good and Ahriman, the evil.
3. Man should build his character by good deeds.
4. Every good man ought to side with Ahura Mazda.
5. Man should use his discretion to differentiate between the good
deeds and bad deeds.
6. Avoiding superstitions, one must adopt religion after checking it
with knowledge and wisdom.
7. It believed in the glory of supreme universal deity.
8. It wants to spread knowledge to the ignorant.
9. According to Zoroaster man's duty is three fold :–
(i) to make a friend of an enemy.
(ii) to make a wicked man righteous.
(iii) to make an ignorant person learned.
10. One must cultivate various virtues to fight against Ahriman.
(c) Elaborate the salient features and teachings of Christianity.
Ans. The salient features and Teachings of Christianity are–
1. God is one, he is father of all of us.
2. Service of all is the true worship.
3. Man can raise himself in the eyes of God by being kind to his fellow
men whom he should serve.
4. God is kind and loving. He forgives even the sinner if he repents.
5. Idol worship and rituals are of no use.
6. Everyman should hate the sin, not the sinner.
7. Man should refrain from evils like vanity, greed and avarice, etc.
8. Treat others as you would like to be treated by others.
(d) Write a brief note on Confucianism.
Ans. The founder of Confucianism was Kung-Fo-Tzu, popularly known
as Confucius. He sought virtue as the supreme end of human life.
He emphasized on self control. The collection of his teachings is
called Analects. The main features and teachings of Confucianism
are the following :–
1. Do unto others as you wish others to do unto you.
2. He who errs and does not admit errs twice.
3. He taught rules of conduct for living in a society.
4. Confucius laid emphasis on improving the relations.
5. One should have moral values like honesty, justice, truth, duty, etc.
6. Confucious did not believe that nobilty was neccessarily hereditary.
He emphasized proper education for a young man to turn into a
gentleman even if he had a humble parentage.
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7. The central themes of Confucianism are – respect for elders and
ancestors, humility towards others, morals and social order in the
society.
(e) Write a short note on the beliefs and fundamental principles of
Islam.
Ans. The followers of Islam are called Muslims. Muslims means one
who makes peace with God and others. They believe that God is
one, but they call God many names including Allah. The words of
Allah are compiled in a book called Quran, therefore the Quran is
considered the holy book of Muslims. The first belief of Islam is
testimony (Shadadat). I bear the witness that God is one and that
Muhammad is his prophet. The second belief of Islam is the
omnipresence, beneficence and inscrutability of Allah. The third
belief is the day of judgement (Qayamat). Five fundamentals of
Islam are:– 1. Unity of God and prophethood of Muhammad 2.
Namaz 3. Alms (Zakat) 4. Roza 5. Pilgrimage to Mecca (Haj). Idol
worship, drinking of wine and gambling if forbade in Islam. The
religion stresses on equality, fraternity and peace.
3. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Old Testament
The holy book of the jews
2. Cross
Sacred to Christians
3. Mary
Mother of Jesus Christ
4. Mecca
Saudi Arabia
5. Haj
Annual pilgrimage
6. Kung-Fo-Tzu
China
4. Fill in the blanks :
Ans. (a) Judaism is a religion of Jews or Hebrews.
(b) The Jews call the God as Jehovah or Yahveh.
(c) Zoroastrianism was founded by Zarathustra of Zoroaster of Iran.
(d) Confucius was born in China in 551 B.C.
(e) Jesus Christ was crucified by the Roman emperor in 30 A.D.
(f) The Muslims pray in a mosque.
5. To which religions do the following holy books belong?
Ans.
(a) Bible
–
Christianity
(b) Zend Avesta
–
Zoroastrianism
(c) Quran
–
Islam
(d) Analects
–
Confucianism
(e) Old Testament
–
Judaism
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Unite - III Civics (Community and Its Development )
22.
Communities and their Needs
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What is the smallest unit of a community?
Ans. A person spends much of his time in the family so a family is called
the smallest unit of a community.
(b) What consists of a family?
Ans. A family consists of parents and children. The parents take care of
the health and hygiene, food and clothing and shelter of their
children. The parents develop all the civic virtues in the children.
(c) What do you mean by a community?
Ans. A group of families are said to form a community or in other words a
group of people who live close to one another and cooperate with
each other is called a community.
(d) When did communication begin among communities?
Ans. Due to the development of art and culture and the means of
transportation, communication began amongst the communities.
(e) How many villages are there in India?
Ans. There are 5,50,000 villages in India.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Why is a family called the first school of citizenship?
Ans. A child develops all the civic virtues like cooperation, discipline,
honesty, toleration, patriotism and good behaviour in the family. So
a family is called the first school of citizenship. A family, as a
nursery, develops the citizens of the future.
(b) Why is the population of the cities increasing?
Ans. Educated youth of villages leave villages to settle down in cities in
search of employment so the population of cities is increasing.
(c) What damage has caused due to the increase in population?
Ans. Population in India is increasing at an alarming pace. Because of
the population explosion the problems relating to public
conveniences, potable water, sanitation, health, residence and
education have cropped up. Increase of population is also the major
hurdle in way of economic development of our country.
(d) What damage is caused due to unemployment?
Ans. Unemployment creates tension and frustration among the youth. So
they easily indulge in crime.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Throw light on the importance of the mutual cooperation in
community.
Ans. Mutual cooperation in a community is of utmost importance. The
1.
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members of the community need the services of doctors, nurses,
teachers, electric personnels, grocers and vendors of other daily
needs of life. Undoubtedly one has to pay for the services availed
but ultimately the basic principle involved is of mutual cooperation.
(b) What are the factors which increase pollution?
Ans. The main factor which increase pollution is the increase of
population. Improper garbage management increase troble and
diseases. Improper method of disposing of the dirty water and
wastes causes and results in spreading diseases.
(c) What measures can be adopted to increase the agricultural
production?
Ans. The following measures can be adopted to increase the agricultural
production as use of good seeds and fertilizers, use of pesticides and
insecticides, use of modern agricultured implements for tilling of
soil and sowing of seeds, use of harvesters and better irrigation
facilities by the use of submersible pumps etc.
4. State 'True' and 'False' against the following statements :
Ans. (a) A person lives in a family throughout his life.
(True)
(b) People do not cooperate each other in a community.
(False)
(c) The invention of fire made the human life inconvenient.
(False)
(d) Life style reached from one place to another due to transportation
(True)
(e) India is called the country of villages.
(True)
(f) Villages are still backward due to illiteracy.
(True)
(g) Rapid increase in population is one of the hurdles
in way of economic development.
(True)
(h) Pollution is increasing due to the population increase.
(True)
5. Tick (3) the correct choice :
Ans.
(a) Which is the nursery of citizenship?
3
(i) school
(ii) family
(iii) temple
(iv) mosque
(b) Whose services are needed to a sick person?
(i) doctor's and nurses 3 (ii) friends
(iii) parents
(iv) teachers
(c) What is the main occupation of the villages?
(i) labouring
(ii) to run industry
(iii) farming
3 (iv) trading
(d) What is the major harm of the increase in population?
(i) mob increases
(ii) scarcity of houses
(iii) tension and crime
(iv) unemployment
3
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23.
Changes in Community Life
and Rural Upliftment
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) How many percent of the Indian people live in villages?
Ans. 76% of the Indian people live in villages.
(b) When was Zamindari System abolished?
Ans. Zamindari system was abolished after 1947.
(c) How is the life of the village people?
Ans. The life of the village people is very simple. The people generally
live in small houses or mud huts.
(d) When was the Community Development Programme launched?
Ans. The Community Development Programme was launched on
October 2,1952.
(e) How many villages does a block include?
Ans. A bock includes 100 villages.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Who is Gram Sewak? In what different ways the gram sewak
perform his work?
Ans. A Gram Sewak is the village-level worker properly trained for his
work. He tells the people new methods of cultivation, how to use
fertilizers and good seeds. He tells the villagers how to improve
their living condition.
(b) Name any four items which come under the Community
Development Programme.
Ans. Four items which come under the Community Development
Programme are new methods of cultivation, to open new centres for
adult education, to provide sanitation and health facilities and to
encourage small scale industries.
(c) How has electricity proved useful to the villages?
Ans. In most of the states, electricity has reached every village. Villages
are using electricity for farming, irrigation, lighting their houses
and streets, entertainment and knowledge through radio and
television.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) What are the main functions of the Community Development
Programme?
Ans. Main functions of the Community Development Programme are :–
1. To increase irrigation facilities.
2. To provide good quality seeds, manure, new implements and cattle
of good breed.
3. To encourage planting of fruit trees, flower plants and cultivation of
vegetables etc.
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To open schools, libraries and centres of adult education.
To provide sanitation and health facilities and to open dispensaries.
To educate people about new methods of farming.
To encourage small scale industries and crafts.
To construct pucca houses.
To provide entertainment and knowledge through plays, cinema,
games and sports, music and other such activities.
(b) What are the main reasons for the backwardness of the Indian
villages?
Ans. The main reasons for the backwardness of the Indian villages are 1.
Lack of irrigation facilities 2. Inadequate transport and
communication system 3. Unequal distribution of land 4. Caste
system 5. Rural indebtedness 6. Ignorance due to illiteracy and 7.
Low status of women.
4. Fill in the blanks :
Ans. (a) In order to lead a happy life one should have small family.
(Large / Small)
(b) The Gram Sewikas specially look after the health of the pregnant
women. (Gram Sewaks / Gram Sewikas)
(c) The population of each block is about 1,00,000. (1,00,000 / 10,000)
(d) Agriculture is the backbone of our rural economy. (Industry /
Agriculture)
(e) The State Government has the responsibility to implement the
Community Development Programme. (State / Central)
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
24.
1.
Local Self-Government in Rural Areas
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What is three tier Panchayat System?
Ans. Three tier Panchayat system includes Gram Panchayat at the
village level, Panchayat Samiti at the block level and Zila Parishad
at the district level.
(b) How is Gram Sabha organised?
Ans. Gram Sabha is organised by all adult men and women in a village
who have reached the age of 18.
(c) What is the minimum age of the voters to elect the members of
the village Panchayat?
Ans. The minimum age of the voters to elect the member of the village
Panchayat is 18 years.
(d) What is the term of the Pradhan of the village Panchayat?
Ans. The term of the Pradhan of the village Panchayat is 5 years.
(e) Who is the most important officer of the Panchayat Samiti?
Ans. Block development officer is the most important officer of the
Panchayat Samiti.
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2.
Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) What is meant by local self-government?
Ans. Local self-government means the governance by the local
representatives. The governance at the local level by the local
people is called local self government.
(b) What is the importance of the local self-government?
Ans. The importance of the local self-government is that local people
cooperate with the local government to solve their problems and
ensure their own development and welfare.
(c) Why did Mahatma Gandhi emphasize to implement
Panchayati Raj again?
Ans. Panchayati are formed by the local people. They know their
problems and needs better than outside people and the cooperation
of the people of that area proves fruitful since they can solve their
problems easily. Therefore, Mahatma Gandhi emphasize to
implement Panchayati Raj again.
(d) How is village Panchayat formed?
Ans. The Panchayats are found in villages. The general body of
Panchayat is called the Gram Sabha. All adult men and women who
has attained the age of 18 years is the member of gram sabha. The
members of gram sabha. The members of gram sabha elect a small
committee from among themselves to constitute the village
Panchayat. One of the member is elected as Pradhan or Sarpanch.
He is the president of Panchayat.
(e) How is Zila Parishad formed?
Ans. Zila Parishad is at the top level of the Panchayati Raj System. It
functions at district level. It is composed of the following members1. All chairpersons of Panchayat Samities 2. MPs of Lok Sabha and
Rajya Sabha representing the district 3. MLA and MLC belonging
to the area. 4. Representatives of SC and ST 5. Representatives of
women. It has a tenure of 5 years. The Zila Parishad elects a
president and a Vice President amongst its own members. It has also
a secretary and some officials who are appointed by the
government.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) What are the main functions of the village Panchayat?
Ans. The main functions of the Village Panchayat are–
1. Looking after public health and sanitation.
2. Opening of primary school.
3. Opening and maintaining maternity and child welfare centers.
4. Street lighting.
5. Constructions and maintenance of village roads.
6. Supply of potable water and maintenance of wells, tanks.
7. Buying and selling of village property and collections of rents.
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Supply of seeds and fertilizers to farmers.
Maintenance of records of birth and deaths.
Maintaining up to date accounts of income and expenditure.
Throw light on the main functions of the Panchayat Samiti.
The Panchayat Samiti functions at the block level. It arranges for
electrification of villages and irrigation of the fields in the area.
Health and sanitation facilities are also taken care of by it.
Implementation of projects for the village development,
construction of roads, poultry farming and fisheries are also
undertaken by the Panchayat Samiti. It develops small scale
industries as well.
(c) What are the important functions of the Zila Parishad?
Ans. The Zila Parishad is the apex institution of the three tier Panchayati
Raj system. Its main function is to help the village Panchayats and
the Block Samiti and to coordinate their work. It also given advice
to the government on the work of the Panchayats and the Block
Samities or Panchayat Samities. It prepares plans for the
development of the whole district. It takes steps to increase
agricultural production and to improve sanitation in the rural areas.
It constructs roads as well in villages. Zila Parishad also undertakes
the implementation of five years plans and other projects for rural
development.
4. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words :
Ans. (a) The life and problems in the cities and village of India are
different. (alike / different)
(b) The Panchayat System in India is ancient. (new / ancient)
(c) The minimum age to vote in the Village Panchayat is 18 years. (18
years / 21 years)
(d) The tenure of the Pardhan of the Village Panchayat is 5 years. (3
years / 5 years)
(e) The Zila Parishad is at the top of the Panchayati Raj System. (top /
bottom)
5. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Panchayat Samiti
Intermediate level Panchayat
2. Village Panchayat
The first tier of the Panchayat
System
3. Zila Parishad
At the apex level of the Panchayati
Raj System
4. Secretary
Officer of the Gram Panchayat
appointed by the government
5. Block Development
Government officer of the
officer
Panchayat Samiti
8.
9.
10.
(b)
Ans.
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25.
Local Self-Government In Urban Areas
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) Name the Local self-governing units in urban areas?
Ans. The local self-governing units in urban areas are Nagar Panchayat,
Municipality and Municipal Corporation.
(b) What is the population of the town where the Nagar Panchayat
is formed?
Ans. The population of the town where the Nagar Panchayat is formed in
30 thousand to 1 lakh.
(c) What is the population of the town / city where the Municipality
is established?
Ans. The population of the town / city where the municipality is
established in 1 lakh to 10 lakh.
(d) In which cities the Municipal Corporations are established?
Ans. The Municipal Corporations are established in the cities usually
with a population of 10 lakhs or more.
(e) What is the presiding officer of the Municipal Corporation
called?
Ans. The presiding officer of the Municipal Corporation is called the
chairman.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) How is a Nagar Panchayat formed?
Ans. The members of the Nagar Panchayat are elected by the voters of
the town. It has 10 to 24 members. The members of parliament of
the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, members of legislative
assembly and council belonging to that area are also included. 2 or 3
members are nominated by the state government. A chairman and a
vice chairman of the Nagar Panchayat is also elected.
(b) How is the Chairman of the Municipality elected?
Ans. The Chairman of Municipality is elected by the voters of the city for
a term of 5 years.
(c) What are the sources of income of the Municipality?
Ans. The sources of income of the Municipality are –
1. Octoroi duty on goods.
2. Tax from vendors.
3. Taxes on property.
4. Water Tax.
5. Taxes on Vehicles.
6. Income from municipal properties.
7. Financial grants and loans from the state government.
(d) How are the Councillors of the Corporations are elected?
Ans. The Councillors of the Corporations are elected by the voters of the
city. All adult persons whose names are recorded in the list of voters
have a right to vote.
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3.
Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) What functions are performed by the Nagar Panchayat?
Ans. The Nagar Panchayat performes the following functions–
1. Providing potable water and electricity.
2. Construction and maintenance of roads.
3. Undertaking health and sanitation services.
4. Construction of houses and maintenance of parks.
5. Running primary schools.
6. Opening health centres and dispensaries.
7. Maintenance of the records of births and deaths.
(b) How is a Municipality formed?
Ans. The cities with a population from 1 lakh to 10 lakh are managed by a
municipal board. It can have 25 to 55 members as per the population
of the city. The members are elected by the voters of the city for a
term of 5 years. A chairman to it is also elected. Some seats are
reserved form women, scheduled castes and scheduled tribes. The
minimum age for the membership is 21 years while the age to be
eligible to vote is 18 years. The members elect a vice-chairman
from among themselves. The meetings of the board are presided
over by the chairman, while in his absence, it is done by vice-president.
(c) What are the main functions of the Municipality?
Ans. The main function of the Municipality is to solve the local problems
of the citizens. The main functions are as follows–
1. Supply of electricity / street light and clean potable water.
2. Construction and maintenance of roads, streets and drains.
3. Sanitation and cleanliness work in the city.
4. To develop and maintain markets.
5. To run hospitals and dispensaries.
6. To open primary school.
7. Maintenance of fairs and exihibitions.
8. Maintenance of grave yards, cremation grounds and electric
crematoriums.
9. Preservation of food adulteration.
10. Maintenance of records pertaining to births and deaths.
(d) What are the main functions of the Municipal Corporation?
Ans. The general council of the Municipal Corporation usually works
through various committees which look after different important
subject matters. The main functions of the Municipal Corporation
are–
1. Construction and maintenance of roads and streets in metropolitan
cities.
2. Supplying electricity and potable water.
3. Arrangement of business centres and shops.
4. Prevention of epidemics and vaccination.
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5. Running schools.
6. Construction of bus shelters for commuters, orphanage and child
welfare centres.
7. Maintenance of grave yards, cremation grounds and electirc
crematoriums.
8. Registration of births and deaths.
4. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Town
Nagar Panchayat
2. Chairman
Municipality
3. Mayor
Municipal corporation
4. Voter
18 years
5. A candidate to the
21 years
Municipality
5. Fill in the blanks with the most suitable answer :
Ans. (a) A person who has attained the age of 18 can vote in a Municipal
election. (21, 18, 25)
(b) The state government nominates 2 to 3 members to the Nagar
Panchayat. (1, 2)
(c) A Municipality can have 25 to 55 members. (30, 55, 75)
(d) The Chairman of the Municipality is elected for a term of 5 years.
(2, 3, 5)
(e) The Mayor is elected by the Councillors. (Mayor, Pradhan)
26.
District Administration
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) How many districts are there in India?
Ans. There are around 600 districts in India.
(b) How many states and union territories are there in India?
Ans. There are 28 States and 7 Union Territories in India.
(c) What is the highest officer of the district called?
Ans. The highest officer of the district is called District Magistrate or
Collector or the Deputy Commissioner.
(d) What is the function of the Police Department?
Ans. The function of the Police Department is to deal with law and order
situation.
(e) Who are kept in the jail?
Ans. The criminals are kept in the jail.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) Write down the names of the various departments in a district
administration.
Ans. The various departments in a district administration are 1. District
1.
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Magistrate 2. Police department 3. Education department 4.
Medical department 5. Judicial administration 6. Jail department 7.
Civic amenities.
(b) What is the function of the education Department?
Ans. Education Department supervises the educational system in the
district. The highest officer of this department is the District
Inspector of Schools. Primary and Senior basic education is
supervised by the Basic Shiksha Adhikari.
(c) What is the function of the medical Department?
Ans. The medical Department in the district is dealt with by the Medical
Department. The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) is the senior most
officer of this department. This department runs family welfare
programmes and protects the health of the people.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Throw light on the functions of the district magistrate.
Ans. The District Magistrate discharges the following main functions–
1. Maintenance of law and order.
2. Maintenance of land records and collection or revenues.
3. Providing civic amenities through local self-governing units etc.
4. Planning and implementations of development programmes.
5. The District Magistrate acts as a link between the government and
the public.
(b) Write a brief note on the judicial Administration.
Ans. The judicial Administration at the district level deals with two types
of law suits the civil and criminal cases. The civil courts decide
cases pertaining to property and money matters while the criminal
courts hear criminal cases. District Judge or session Judge court has
two branches–
1. Additional District judges courts which include civil judge courts
and munsif courts in them.
2. Chief Judicial Magistrate 1st class magistrates courts which
include in them are IInd and IIIrd class magistrate courts and Nyaya
Panchayat. Besides them, there are other special courts like the Lok
Adalats, Consumer's Forums, Family Courts, Fast Track Courts,
etc.
4. Match the following columns :
Ans. Column A
Column B
1. Highest officer of the district
Collector
2. District Inspector of school
Education from 6 to 12th class
3. Superintendent of Police
Police Department
4. Basic Shiksha Adhikari
Education for primary classes
5. Munsif
Officer of the Court
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27.
Public Property and its Preservation
Exercise
Answer the following questions in 20 words :
(a) What is private property?
Ans. Property owned and used by an individual or a group of people is
private property.
(b) What is public property?
Ans. Property held in common by all members of the public is public
property.
(c) What are public utilities?
Ans. The public property which is also called the national property are
used by lakhs of people, therefore they are also called Public
Utilities or Public Utilities Services.
(d) Who has the right over the national property?
Ans. Everybody has the right to use the national property because it
belongs to the whole nation.
(e) Name the 'Act' which punishes the person who damages the
archaeological property.
Ans. The Ancient Monuments and Archaelogical Sites and Remains Act,
1958 punishes the person who damages the archaeological
property.
2. Answer the following questions in 40 words :
(a) How is public property created?
Ans. A piece of property held in common by all members of the public is
called Public Property. It may include things like schools, parks,
roads, railways, monuments, power station, etc. They belong to the
whole nation. Therefore, they are also called National Property.
(b) Why should we protect the school property?
Ans. Children make their career by taking education in a school, so it is
their duty to protect the school property i.e. school building,
furniture, plants, play ground and other items.
(c) What is our duty while travelling in a bus or train?
Ans. While travelling in a bus or a train, we should always buy the ticket.
We should never try to damage them like ripping of the seats or
breaking the windows etc.
(d) What should be taken care of by the striking people and
demonstrators?
Ans. The striking people and demonstrators should be careful not to
harm the public properties. Due to the damage to the public
property, not only the loss is caused to the nation, but it costs a lot to
the government to replace or repair it. It causes hindrance in the
progress of the nation.
1.
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(e) Why should we protect historical buildings and ancient
monuments.
Ans. Historical buildings artefacts and national monuments are our
cultural heritage. They are of utmost important to us. So, it is our
duty to maintain and preserve them.
3. Answer the following questions in 80 words :
(a) Distinguish between a private property and a public property.
Ans. The private property is owned by an individual or a group of people
and is used by him or them example house, car, furniture, scooter,
etc. While a piece of property held in common by all members of
the public is called Public Property. It may include things like
school, parks, roads, railways, monuments, power station, etc.
They belong to all people. So they are also called National Property.
(b) What can we do to protect historical monuments?
Ans. Historical buildings artefacts and national monuments are our
cultural heritage. They are of utmost importance to us. It is our duty
to maintain and preserve them. They should neither be spoiled and
disfigured nor stolen for our interest. It is our sacred duty to see that
nobody does any harm to any article of them. Any loss of them
makes us culturally poor also.
(c) How does the government protect public property?
Ans. The government takes several measures to protect the public
property. For proper maintenance of old monuments, memorials
and buildings, there is a special department called the
Archaeological Survey of India. The government and this
department undertake repairs, renovation and scientific
maintenance. The government has also passed a law called the
Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act,
1958 to punish those persons who indulge in damaging activities.
4. Fill in the blanks with suitable words :
Ans. (a) The cost of repair of the national property is paid by us. (is paid
/ is not paid)
(b) Railway station is the public property. (public / private)
(c) Tax payers pay for the burning of the state buses. (earning /
burning)
(d) Our historical monuments are our cultural heritage. (cultural /
ancient)
(e) National property belongs to the community as a whole.
(individual / community)
5. State 'True' or 'False' against the following statements :
Ans. (a) A pen, pencil, book or note-book is the private property
of every student.
(True)
(b) Parks, railway stations, trains belong to the private property. (False)
(c) Destruction to the public property means destruction to our
own property.
(True)
(d) Ancient monuments and historical buildings are the symbols
of our honour.
(True)
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