Question 1

In which year was demonetisation of high denomination currency notes first carried out in India as a measure against unaccounted money?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question deals with the history of demonetisation in India. Demonetisation means the withdrawal of the legal tender status of certain currency notes. While many people remember the twenty sixteen demonetisation of five hundred and thousand rupee notes, there were earlier episodes as well. The first demonetisation in India took place during the last years of British rule and targeted very high denomination notes in order to curb black money and tax evasion. Given Data / Assumptions: - The subject is demonetisation of high denomination currency notes. - The country is India. - The question asks about the first year in which such demonetisation was carried out. - The options include the years 1946, 1962, 1978, 1999 and 2016. Concept / Approach: The central concept is to distinguish the first historical instance of demonetisation from later episodes. The first demonetisation occurred in January 1946, when notes of five hundred, one thousand and ten thousand rupees were withdrawn by the colonial government. Later, in 1978, another demonetisation targeted high value notes. The step in 2016 focused on widely used denominations of five hundred and one thousand. Therefore, the year 1946 must be recognised as the first demonetisation year in Indian history. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that demonetisation in 2016 was not the first such step, even though it is very well known.Step 2: Remember that in 1978 the government again demonetised high denomination notes, but this was after independence.Step 3: Trace further back and identify 1946 as the year when the colonial administration first demonetised very high value notes to tackle black money.Step 4: Compare this knowledge with the options, noting that 1946 is the earliest relevant year listed.Step 5: Select 1946 as the correct answer and treat other years as later demonetisation or unrelated events. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, you can remember a simple sequence 1946 for the first demonetisation under British rule, 1978 for a second demonetisation under the Janata government, and 2016 for the recent one under a later government. The years 1962 and 1999 are not associated with major nationwide demonetisation measures in standard exam references. This sequence makes it clear that 1946 is the first instance. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - 1978: This year saw an important demonetisation of high denomination notes, but it was the second major instance, not the first. - 1999: No nationwide demonetisation of the type described in the question took place in this year. - 1962: This year is linked more with the Sino Indian war than with currency demonetisation. - 2016: This is the most recent and famous demonetisation episode but clearly not the first in Indian history. Common Pitfalls: Because the twenty sixteen demonetisation affected the daily life of many people, students sometimes forget that earlier demonetisations also took place. Others remember the 1978 event but do not realise that an even earlier step occurred during British rule. Building a small mental time line of all three major episodes helps you avoid this confusion in exams. Final Answer: The first demonetisation of high denomination currency notes in India took place in the year 1946.

Question 2

Which of the following is regarded as the primary religious text of the Jewish community in the field of world religions?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question comes from the area of world religions and comparative religion. Many competitive exams ask you to match religious communities with their main sacred texts. The Jewish community has a foundational text that contains the first five books of their scripture and is central to their religious law and tradition. Given Data / Assumptions: - The group mentioned is the Jews or the Jewish community. - The question asks for their primary religious text. - The options list texts from several world religions Dhammapada, Torah, Tripitaka, Guru Granth Sahib and Quran. - Only one of these is the central text of Judaism. Concept / Approach: The core concept is to recall that the main sacred text of Judaism is the Torah. The Torah comprises the first five books of the Hebrew Bible Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. While the broader Hebrew Bible or Tanakh contains more books, the Torah has special central status. Other texts in the options belong to Buddhism, Sikhism and Islam, so they can be ruled out when the question is specifically about Jews. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Match each option with the religion it belongs to.Step 2: Dhammapada and Tripitaka are Buddhist texts, Guru Granth Sahib is the Sikh holy scripture and Quran is the central text of Islam.Step 3: Recognise that Torah is the name given to the foundational five books of the Hebrew Bible and is the primary text of Judaism.Step 4: Since the question clearly asks about Jews, identify Torah as the only suitable option.Step 5: Mark Torah as the correct answer and eliminate the other options as belonging to other religions. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this by recalling basic pairs such as Bible with Christians, Quran with Muslims, Guru Granth Sahib with Sikhs, Tripitaka with Buddhists and Torah with Jews. Some texts like Tanakh refer to the full Hebrew Bible, but when exams ask about the primary Jewish religious text, they nearly always expect Torah as the answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Dhammapada: A collection of sayings of the Buddha and an important Buddhist text, not Jewish. - Tripitaka: Literally meaning three baskets, it is the main collection of Buddhist scriptures. - Guru Granth Sahib: The holy scripture of Sikhism, compiled by Sikh Gurus, not connected with Judaism. - Quran: The holy book of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the word of God revealed to Prophet Muhammad. Common Pitfalls: Sometimes candidates confuse Torah with similar sounding terms or think of the word Bible instead. While Bible is widely used for Christian scriptures, Jewish tradition uses the term Torah for the central law and teaching. Remembering a simple association Jews Torah will help you avoid mixing it with scriptures of other faiths. Final Answer: The primary religious text of the Jewish community is the Torah.

Question 3

In 1917, which movement was launched by Mahatma Gandhi from Champaran in Bihar to protest the exploitation of indigo cultivators by European planters?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question returns to the early phase of Gandhis leadership in India. In 1917 he led a major movement in Champaran district of Bihar to address the suffering of indigo cultivators forced to grow indigo under oppressive conditions. This movement marked the first successful application of Satyagraha on Indian soil and helped establish Gandhi as a national leader. Given Data / Assumptions: - The year is 1917. - The place is Champaran in Bihar. - The issue involves exploitation of indigo cultivators by European planters. - The options list several movements Non Cooperation, Quit India, Swadeshi, Civil Disobedience and Champaran Satyagraha. Concept / Approach: The concept here is to match the correct movement with its time, place and issue. Champaran Satyagraha took place in 1917 and was focused on indigo peasants under the tinkathia system. Non Cooperation Movement began in 1920, Civil Disobedience Movement around 1930, Quit India Movement in 1942, and Swadeshi is associated particularly with early twentieth century protests against the partition of Bengal. So for 1917 and Champaran, the correct label is Champaran Satyagraha movement. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Note the key clues the year 1917, the place Champaran and the subject indigo cultivators.Step 2: Recall that Champaran Satyagraha in 1917 was Gandhis first major Satyagraha in India.Step 3: Recognise that Non Cooperation Movement was launched later in 1920 in response to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and Khilafat issues.Step 4: Remember that Civil Disobedience Movement began in 1930 with events like the Dandi March, and Quit India Movement in 1942 called for the British to leave India immediately.Step 5: Therefore, match the given details with Champaran Satyagraha movement and choose it as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify by organising Gandhis major campaigns chronologically Champaran Satyagraha 1917, Kheda and Ahmedabad 1918, Non Cooperation 1920 to 1922, Civil Disobedience around 1930, and Quit India in 1942. Swadeshi agitation against partition of Bengal is even earlier, beginning in 1905. Since the question is clearly set in 1917 and located at Champaran, the match with Champaran Satyagraha is straightforward. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Non Cooperation Movement: This began in 1920 and was a nationwide boycott of British institutions, not a local peasant movement in 1917. - Quit India Movement: Launched in 1942, it came much later and had the main slogan Leave India. - Swadeshi Movement: Linked to the anti partition agitation in Bengal after 1905, not to indigo cultivation in Champaran. - Civil Disobedience Movement: Started in 1930 with the Salt Satyagraha and focused on defiance of unjust laws across the country. Common Pitfalls: Some learners simply see the name Gandhi and pick one of the larger nationwide movements like Non Cooperation or Quit India, forgetting the earlier local struggles. Another pitfall is to confuse Champaran with Kheda or Bardoli because all involve peasants. Remember that Champaran is always tied to indigo and to 1917, making Champaran Satyagraha the correct match. Final Answer: In 1917, Mahatma Gandhi launched the Champaran Satyagraha movement from Champaran in Bihar to protest the exploitation of indigo cultivators.

Question 4

In which battle was Nawab Siraj ud Daulah defeated by the forces of Robert Clive of the British East India Company, opening the way for British rule in Bengal?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question is about a turning point in Indian history that allowed the British East India Company to gain political control over Bengal. Nawab Siraj ud Daulah, the last independent Nawab of Bengal, fought against British forces led by Robert Clive. His defeat in this battle laid the foundation for British dominance in eastern India and later in the whole subcontinent. Given Data / Assumptions: - The Indian ruler mentioned is Nawab Siraj ud Daulah of Bengal. - The British commander is Robert Clive of the East India Company. - The question asks in which battle Siraj ud Daulah was defeated by Clive. - The options list several battles Plassey, Buxar, Panipat, Haldighati and Wandiwash. Concept / Approach: The concept is to connect Siraj ud Daulah with the correct eighteenth century battle. Siraj ud Daulah was defeated at the Battle of Plassey in 1757. This battle took place near the village of Palashi in Bengal. The British victory resulted partly from treachery by Mir Jafar and other commanders who did not fully support the Nawab. While the Battle of Buxar involved later rulers and also strengthened British power, the direct defeat of Siraj ud Daulah by Clive happened at Plassey. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Siraj ud Daulah was Nawab of Bengal at the time of the Battle of Plassey in 1757.Step 2: Remember that Robert Clive led the British East India Company army in that battle.Step 3: Understand that Mir Jafar conspired with the British, leading to the Nawabs defeat.Step 4: Observe that the Battle of Buxar in 1764 involved a coalition of Indian rulers and came later, not as the confrontation where Siraj himself was defeated.Step 5: From the given options, choose Battle of Plassey as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this by thinking of standard exam pairs. The pair Siraj ud Daulah Plassey is as common as the pair Buxar combined forces of Awadh, Bengal and the Mughal Emperor. Panipat is associated with Afghan and Maratha conflicts, Haldighati with Akbar and Maharana Pratap, and Wandiwash with Anglo French rivalry in the Carnatic region. None of those involve Siraj ud Daulah directly, which reinforces Plassey as the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Battle of Buxar: Very important for British supremacy, but Siraj ud Daulah had already lost power by then and was not the main opponent. - Battle of Panipat: Refers to several battles in north India between various Indian and foreign powers, not involving Siraj ud Daulah and Clive together. - Battle of Haldighati: Fought between Akbars forces and those of Maharana Pratap of Mewar, long before the time of Siraj ud Daulah. - Battle of Wandiwash: An important Anglo French battle in the Carnatic region, not related to Bengal or Siraj ud Daulah. Common Pitfalls: Some students mix up Plassey and Buxar because both are pivotal for British expansion. The rule of thumb is that Plassey is linked with Siraj ud Daulah and the beginning of British political control, whereas Buxar is linked with a wider coalition and the establishment of broader supremacy. Keeping these associations distinct prevents confusion. Final Answer: Nawab Siraj ud Daulah was defeated by the forces of Robert Clive in the Battle of Plassey.

Question 5

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel emerged as a national level leader through his leadership of which of the following peasants movements in Gujarat?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question focuses on the political rise of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who later became known as the Iron Man of India and played a crucial role in integrating princely states after independence. Before that national role, he first gained wide recognition by leading a successful peasants movement in a region of Gujarat, where farmers resisted an unjust increase in land revenue. Given Data / Assumptions: - The leader is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. - The question asks about the movement through which he emerged as a major leader. - The options list Bhoodan Movement, Rowlatt Satyagraha, Bardoli Satyagraha, Swadeshi Movement and Dandi March. - The movement in question is described as a peasants movement in Gujarat. Concept / Approach: The main concept is to connect Sardar Patel with Bardoli, a taluka in Gujarat. In 1928 the colonial government announced a steep increase in land revenue in Bardoli. Under the leadership of Patel, peasants launched a non violent campaign refusing to pay the enhanced tax until it was reduced. This movement is known as Bardoli Satyagraha and its success earned Patel the title Sardar, meaning leader or chief. Other movements listed in the options are associated with different leaders or regions. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Bardoli Satyagraha was a peasants movement in Gujarat against a revenue hike in 1928.Step 2: Recognise that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was the main organiser and leader of this movement.Step 3: Understand that his firm yet disciplined leadership at Bardoli brought him national fame and the honorific title Sardar.Step 4: Compare this information with the options and identify Bardoli Satyagraha as the correct match.Step 5: Rule out other movements that either took place elsewhere or were led by different leaders. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this by recalling typical exam pairs, such as Vinoba Bhave Bhoodan Movement, Mahatma Gandhi Rowlatt Satyagraha and Dandi March, and early nationalists Swadeshi Movement. Bardoli, however, is always associated with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Many textbooks specifically state that he rose to prominence through his leadership of Bardoli Satyagraha. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Bhoodan Movement: This land donation movement was led mainly by Acharya Vinoba Bhave after independence, not by Sardar Patel. - Rowlatt Satyagraha: A country wide protest against the repressive Rowlatt Act in 1919, led by Mahatma Gandhi. - Swadeshi Movement: Connected with the anti partition agitation after 1905, involving many leaders but not particularly marking Patels rise. - Dandi March: Part of the Salt Satyagraha in 1930, led by Gandhi; Patel supported it but his leadership fame had already been established through Bardoli. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates misassociate Patel with every Gandhian movement in Gujarat, which can lead to confusion between Bardoli and Dandi. The safe method is to remember that Dandi March highlighted Gandhis leadership on the national stage, while Bardoli Satyagraha specifically brought Patel into the limelight and earned him his title Sardar. Final Answer: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel first emerged as a major national leader through his leadership of the Bardoli Satyagraha in Gujarat.

Question 6

Who was a key pioneer and widely recognised leader of the Chipko Movement that began in the early nineteen seventies in the Himalayan region?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question again relates to the Chipko Movement, a landmark people centred environmental movement in India. While the movement was decentralised and involved many local villagers, certain leaders helped to articulate its message and bring it to national and international attention. Among them, one Gandhian activist is especially remembered as a pioneer and symbol of Chipko. Given Data / Assumptions: - The movement is the Chipko Movement in the Himalayan region. - The time frame is the early nineteen seventies. - The question asks for a key pioneer and widely recognised leader of this movement. - The options list several social activists Sambaji, Baba Amte, Sunderlal Bahuguna, Medha Patkar and Chandi Prasad Bhatt. Concept / Approach: The key concept is Leader identification within environmental movements. Sunderlal Bahuguna was a Gandhian environmentalist who played a major role in Chipko. He popularised the movements slogan that ecology is permanent economy and undertook long padyatras across the Himalayas to spread awareness about deforestation. Chandi Prasad Bhatt and other activists were also important, but Sunderlal Bahuguna is most often named as the pioneer and public face of Chipko in exam oriented material. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the Chipko Movement involved villagers hugging trees to prevent felling and that it took place in present day Uttarakhand.Step 2: Remember that Sunderlal Bahuguna, a Gandhian activist, dedicated his life to forest protection and became strongly identified with Chipko.Step 3: Note that he travelled extensively, spoke to people and leaders, and helped secure bans on green felling in the region.Step 4: Compare this with the other names. Baba Amte is linked with work for leprosy patients and Narmada issues, Medha Patkar with Narmada Bachao Andolan, and Sambaji is not a major Chipko figure.Step 5: Select Sunderlal Bahuguna as the correct answer while recognising that Chandi Prasad Bhatt was also an important organiser but is less often described as the main pioneer in basic exam questions. Verification / Alternative check: A verification method is to pair leaders with movements in memory. For example, Sunderlal Bahuguna Chipko, Medha Patkar Narmada Bachao Andolan, Baba Amte Anandwan and broader social work. When you think of Chipko, the image of Sunderlal Bahuguna hugging trees and speaking about ecology comes immediately, confirming his role as the pioneer most likely desired in such questions. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Sambaji: Not a widely known leader associated with the Chipko Movement in standard references. - Baba Amte: A great social worker best known for his work with leprosy patients and later support to Narmada Bachao Andolan, not Chipko. - Medha Patkar: Lead activist of Narmada Bachao Andolan focused on large dam projects, not forest conservation through tree hugging. - Chandi Prasad Bhatt: An important organiser in the region and significant Chipko leader, but exam questions that use the phrase pioneer of Chipko usually expect Sunderlal Bahuguna as the answer. Common Pitfalls: Students may hesitate between Sunderlal Bahuguna and Chandi Prasad Bhatt because both names appear in connection with Chipko. In most introductory level questions, however, Sunderlal Bahuguna is highlighted as the pioneer. A clear association of Bahuguna with Chipko and Patkar with Narmada Bachao is a reliable way to avoid confusion. Final Answer: A key pioneer and widely recognised leader of the Chipko Movement was Sunderlal Bahuguna.

Question 7

In the context of British rule in India, which Governor General is historically credited with formally abolishing the Sati system or Sati pratha in India?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks knowledge of social reforms under British rule in India, specifically the abolition of the Sati system. Competitive examinations often test which Governor General or Viceroy is associated with key reforms, so it is important to link names, dates and measures correctly. Here, the focus is on the Governor General who legally prohibited the practice of Sati, where a widow was burnt or expected to die on the funeral pyre of her husband. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question refers to the period of British rule in India. - It asks which Governor General abolished the Sati system through a formal legal measure. - The options list different British Governors General who served in India during various periods. - We assume the question is about the famous regulation that made Sati illegal in territories under the East India Company. Concept / Approach: To answer this, you need to remember major social reform measures taken by various Governors General. The abolition of Sati is directly associated with Lord William Bentinck, who served as Governor General of Bengal and later as the first Governor General of India in the early nineteenth century. He worked closely with reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy and passed a specific regulation declaring Sati illegal and punishable by law. The approach is to recall which Governor General is linked with which reform and then eliminate the incorrect options. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the Sati system involved the self immolation or forced burning of a widow on the funeral pyre of her husband. Step 2: Remember that Indian social reformers, especially Raja Ram Mohan Roy, strongly opposed this practice and requested British authorities to abolish it. Step 3: Lord William Bentinck, as Governor General in 1829, issued Regulation XVII, which formally banned Sati in the territories under the East India Company. Step 4: Note that other Governors General such as Lord Canning, Lord Ripon and Lord Dalhousie are known for different reforms like the introduction of local self government, the Doctrine of Lapse or later constitutional changes, not specifically the abolition of Sati. Step 5: Therefore, the Governor General directly associated with the legal abolition of the Sati system is Lord William Bentinck. Verification / Alternative check: A quick verification method is to make a mental list of major reforms: Lord William Bentinck and Sati abolition, Lord Dalhousie with the Doctrine of Lapse and modern public works, Lord Ripon with local self government and Lord Canning with events around the revolt of 1857 and the transfer of power to the Crown. Only Bentinck appears consistently in textbooks and exam guides as the Governor General who outlawed Sati in 1829. This cross check confirms that Lord William Bentinck is the correct choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Lord Canning: Associated with the revolt of 1857 and the transfer of rule from the Company to the British Crown, not with the abolition of Sati. Lord Dalhousie: Known for the Doctrine of Lapse, railway and telegraph expansion, but not for banning Sati. Lord Ripon: Famous for introducing local self government in India, not for abolishing Sati. Lord Wellesley: Remembered for the Subsidiary Alliance system and military expansion, not this social reform measure. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to confuse various reform minded Governors General and randomly guess Dalhousie or Ripon because they are frequently mentioned in reform contexts. Another pitfall is focusing only on political and administrative reforms rather than social reforms. Students sometimes also forget the role of Indian reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, whose efforts influenced Lord William Bentinck to act against Sati. Mixing up time periods and assuming any famous Governor General can fit the answer leads to errors. Careful association of each name with a specific landmark reform prevents this confusion. Final Answer: In view of the historical evidence, the Governor General who formally abolished the Sati system in India was Lord William Bentinck.

Question 8

In early Portuguese rule over the Indian Ocean, the so called Blue Water Policy was introduced by which Portuguese leader as part of his naval strategy?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests knowledge of the early phase of European presence in India, specifically the Portuguese expansion in the Indian Ocean. The Blue Water Policy is an important concept that describes a particular naval based strategy adopted by the Portuguese. Exams on Indian history and general knowledge often ask which individual introduced this policy, so remembering the correct leader is essential. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question refers to a policy known as the Blue Water Policy. - It asks which Portuguese leader introduced this policy. - The options include well known Portuguese figures and some other European traders active in India. - We assume the term refers to a naval centric strategy rather than territorial conquest on land. Concept / Approach: The Blue Water Policy is associated with the idea that the Portuguese should control the sea routes and build a strong navy to dominate trade in the Indian Ocean, rather than focusing primarily on extensive land conquests. This policy is linked to Francisco de Almeida, who served as the first Portuguese Viceroy in India. The approach for solving the question is to match famous policies and strategies with the correct historical personalities: Francisco de Almeida with Blue Water Policy and Afonso de Albuquerque with later territorial expansion and fort building. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the Blue Water Policy emphasizes sea power and naval dominance to control trade routes. Step 2: Recall that Francisco de Almeida was appointed as the first Portuguese Viceroy in India around the beginning of the sixteenth century. Step 3: Remember that he is commonly associated in textbooks with the Blue Water Policy, focusing on building a strong Portuguese navy in the Indian Ocean. Step 4: Note that Afonso de Albuquerque is better known for capturing Goa and strengthening Portuguese land bases, not for formulating this specific naval policy. Step 5: Eliminate other names that do not belong to the early Portuguese viceroyal period in India, and choose Francisco de Almeida as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: An alternative way to verify is to pair each leader with a key achievement: Francisco de Almeida with Blue Water Policy, Afonso de Albuquerque with Goa and consolidation of Portuguese power, Vasco da Gama with discovering the sea route to India, and later traders like Francis Caron and Francis Martin with Dutch or French activities in India. Only Francisco de Almeida is consistently connected with a naval centric Blue Water Policy in standard history references, confirming that he is the correct choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Afonso de Albuquerque: Known for capturing Goa and strengthening Portuguese land power in India, not specifically for the Blue Water Policy. Vasco da Gama: Famous for discovering the sea route to India, but he did not administer a formal Blue Water Policy as a viceroy. Francis Caron: A Dutch official associated with the Dutch East India Company, not with Portuguese policy. Francis Martin: Linked with French commercial activities in India, not with early Portuguese naval strategies. Common Pitfalls: Students often confuse Francisco de Almeida with Afonso de Albuquerque because both were important Portuguese figures in India. Another common error is to pick Vasco da Gama simply because he is the most familiar Portuguese name, even though he was an explorer and not the viceroy who administered the policy. Mixing up Europeans from different nations, such as Dutch or French traders, is another source of mistakes. Keeping a clear mental map of who did what and which empire they served helps avoid these errors. Final Answer: Therefore, the Portuguese leader who introduced the Blue Water Policy was Francisco de Almeida.

Question 9

During the historic Salt Satyagraha led by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930, for how many days did Gandhi and his volunteers march on foot from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question relates to the Salt Satyagraha, also known as the Dandi March, one of the most iconic movements of the Indian national struggle under Mahatma Gandhi. Understanding the duration, route and significance of this march is important for exams on Indian freedom history. The question asks specifically about the number of days Gandhi and his volunteers walked from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi, which shows familiarity with the basic factual details of the movement. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question clearly refers to the Salt Satyagraha of 1930. - It talks about the walking march of Gandhi and his volunteers from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi. - We are required to identify the total number of days spent walking during this march. - The options are given in days, with different plausible looking numbers. Concept / Approach: The Salt Satyagraha began on 12 March 1930 from Sabarmati Ashram and ended when Gandhi reached the coastal village of Dandi on 6 April 1930. To answer the question, we need to remember or reconstruct the dates and convert that into the total number of days. The march covered about 390 kilometers. Many standard history books state directly that the march lasted for 24 days. Recognizing that 12 March to 6 April is a period of 24 days helps confirm the answer. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Mahatma Gandhi started the Salt March from Sabarmati Ashram on 12 March 1930. Step 2: Remember that he reached the coastal village of Dandi in Gujarat on 6 April 1930. Step 3: Count the days between 12 March and 6 April inclusive, which gives a total of 24 days. Step 4: Cross check this with common textbook information that describes the Salt March as a 24 day, 390 kilometer long march. Step 5: Match this result with the given options and select 24 days as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Another way to verify is to recall that many exam oriented summaries of the movement explicitly use the phrase a 24 day march of about 390 kilometers. Also, posters and timelines of the national movement often mark the start and end dates and label the event as a 24 day march. The consistency of this figure across multiple sources in modern Indian history confirms that 24 days is correct, not 12, 6, 30 or 36 days. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 36 days: This is longer than the actual period and does not match the 12 March to 6 April timeline. 12 days: Too short and not supported by historical records of the Dandi March duration. 6 days: Extremely short and unrealistic for covering about 390 kilometers on foot. 30 days: A round figure that might seem plausible but does not match the actual dates or standard historical accounts. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to guess a rounded duration like 30 days or to remember only the approximate distance but not the exact number of days. Some students mix up the dates or confuse the Salt Satyagraha with other movements and marches. It is also easy to choose 12 or 36 days if you do not cross check with the actual calendar dates. Carefully associating 12 March to 6 April with 24 days helps avoid these errors. Final Answer: Thus, Mahatma Gandhi and his volunteers walked for a total of 24 days during the Salt Satyagraha march from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi.

Question 10

During the period of which British Governor General was the modern Indian Civil Service system, based on open competitive examinations, introduced for the administration of British India?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question deals with administrative history and the evolution of the higher civil services under British rule in India. The Indian Civil Service, often abbreviated as ICS, became the backbone of British administration. Examinations frequently ask under which Governor General or in which period the ICS, based on open competitive examinations, was introduced. The question requires identifying the correct administrator associated with this important institutional development. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question is about the introduction of the Indian Civil Service system. - It focuses on the Governor General under whom this system took shape in its modern form. - The options list prominent British Governors General and Viceroys associated with different reforms. - We assume the question refers to the mid nineteenth century introduction of competitive recruitment to the civil services. Concept / Approach: The earlier civil service under British rule was closed and largely reserved for British patrons. The Charter Act of 1853 opened the door to recruitment through open competitive examinations held in London. The practical shaping and acceptance of this new system is associated with Lord Dalhousie, who was Governor General of India during the period when major administrative reforms took place, including steps towards a merit based civil service. Lord Cornwallis had earlier reformed the Company service and is known for the Cornwallis Code, but the fully developed ICS based on open competition is linked to the era of Dalhousie. The approach is to distinguish between early reforms and the later, more formal introduction of the ICS pattern. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Understand that the Indian Civil Service refers to the higher bureaucracy recruited through competitive exams, especially after the mid nineteenth century. Step 2: Recall that the Charter Act of 1853 allowed open competitive examinations for recruitment to civil services, to be conducted in London. Step 3: Note that Lord Dalhousie served as Governor General from 1848 to 1856, a period that saw significant administrative and infrastructural reforms. Step 4: Recognize that while Lord Cornwallis introduced earlier administrative reforms and codes, the fully developed ICS system based on competitive examinations is associated with the period of Dalhousie. Step 5: Compare the roles of Curzon, Bentinck and Canning, who are mainly linked with later or different reforms, and select Lord Dalhousie as the best match. Verification / Alternative check: An alternative way to verify is to build a timeline: Cornwallis in the late eighteenth century, Bentinck in the early nineteenth century, Dalhousie mid nineteenth century, Canning around the time of the revolt of 1857 and Curzon at the turn of the twentieth century. The Charter Act of 1853 and the subsequent competitive examination system fit squarely into the tenure of Dalhousie. Standard administrative history notes emphasise Dalhousie as the Governor General during the introduction of the Indian Civil Service based on open competition, which supports this answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Lord Curzon: Known for later imperial policies, university reforms and the partition of Bengal, not for the initial introduction of the ICS. Lord William Bentinck: Remembered mainly for social reforms like abolition of Sati and other measures, not for the competitive ICS system. Lord Cornwallis: Introduced earlier civil service reforms and codes but did not oversee the later competitive ICS structure. Lord Canning: Associated with the revolt of 1857 and the transfer of power to the Crown, not with the introduction phase of competitive ICS recruitment. Common Pitfalls: Students often confuse Cornwallis and Dalhousie because both are linked with administrative reforms. Some also incorrectly select Curzon simply because he is famous and associated with civil administrative issues. The key is to associate Cornwallis with earlier Company reforms and Dalhousie with the period of the Charter Act of 1853 and the formalisation of the ICS competitive exam system. Keeping the chronology clear avoids these errors. Final Answer: Therefore, the Indian Civil Service in its modern form was introduced during the period of Lord Dalhousie.

Question 11

In the context of the eighteenth century history of eastern India, which Nawab of Bengal ceded a portion of Orissa to the Marathas after repeated Maratha incursions?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question concerns the relations between the Nawabs of Bengal and the Marathas in the eighteenth century. The Maratha incursions into Bengal, known as the Maratha raids or Bargi invasions, forced the Nawab to make political and territorial concessions. One such concession involved ceding a part of Orissa to the Marathas. Knowing which Nawab of Bengal agreed to this cession helps you understand the shifting balance of power in eastern India before the rise of British dominance. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question is about a ruler of Bengal, specifically a Nawab. - It asks which Nawab gave a portion of Orissa to the Marathas. - The options list several prominent Bengal rulers and some other contemporary figures. - We assume that the context is the mid eighteenth century period of Maratha raids into Bengal and Orissa. Concept / Approach: After the decline of Mughal central authority, regional powers like the Marathas expanded their influence. The Marathas repeatedly raided Bengal under leaders such as Raghoji Bhonsle. Alivardi Khan, the Nawab of Bengal, faced these incursions for years. To secure some peace, he eventually agreed to cede parts of Orissa to the Marathas around the early 1750s. The approach to solving the question is to recall which Nawab confronted constant Maratha raids and then identify the ruler who signed an agreement giving Orissa territory to them. Shaista Khan and Murshid Quli Khan belong to earlier phases of Mughal and provincial administration, while Siraj ud Daula ruled later and is mainly associated with the Battle of Plassey. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that the question belongs to the era of Maratha incursions into Bengal, particularly the Bargi raids. Step 2: Recall that Alivardi Khan was the Nawab of Bengal who ruled from the late 1730s to the mid 1750s and spent much of his reign resisting Maratha raids. Step 3: Remember that after prolonged conflict, a settlement was reached in which Alivardi Khan ceded parts of Orissa to the Marathas. Step 4: Note that Shaista Khan and Murshid Quli Khan belong to earlier periods and are not related to this territorial cession to the Marathas. Step 5: Understand that Siraj ud Daula, a later Nawab, is linked mainly to conflicts with the British, not with territorial concessions to the Marathas. Verification / Alternative check: A helpful way to verify is to place each Nawab in a simple timeline: Murshid Quli Khan as the founder of the autonomous Bengal Nawabship, followed by Alivardi Khan, and then Siraj ud Daula. The period of intense Maratha raids on Bengal falls in the time of Alivardi Khan. History references clearly mention that he signed a treaty with Raghoji Bhonsle in which Orissa was ceded to the Marathas. No such act is attributed to Shaista Khan or Murshid Quli Khan, confirming that Alivardi Khan is the correct ruler. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Shaista Khan: A Mughal governor and general associated with Aurangzebs time, not with the mid eighteenth century Nawabship and Maratha raids. Murshid Quli Khan: The first important Nawab of Bengal who shifted the capital to Murshidabad, not the one who ceded Orissa to the Marathas. Siraj ud Daula: Best known for the Battle of Plassey and conflict with the British East India Company, not for ceding Orissa to the Marathas. Shuja ud Daula: Nawab of Oudh, not a Nawab of Bengal, and not connected to this particular territorial concession. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse Murshid Quli Khan and Alivardi Khan because both were Nawabs of Bengal in the eighteenth century. Others may pick Siraj ud Daula simply because he is the most famous name among Bengal Nawabs due to British involvement. Another pitfall is forgetting that Shuja ud Daula was Nawab of Oudh, not Bengal. Maintaining a clear chronological and regional picture of these rulers helps avoid such errors. Final Answer: The Nawab of Bengal who ceded a portion of Orissa to the Marathas was Alivardi Khan.

Question 12

In medieval Indian history, who is traditionally credited with the famous saying Hunuz Dilli dur ast, meaning Delhi is still far away, to indicate that a ruler had not yet secured power?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question involves a famous saying from medieval Indian history. The Persian phrase Hunuz Dilli dur ast can be translated as Delhi is still far away and is often quoted to suggest that someone is far from achieving their goal, especially in politics. Examinations in Indian history and general knowledge frequently ask who is associated with this remark, so correctly linking the phrase to the right historical personality is important. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question mentions the phrase Hunuz Dilli dur ast, translated as Delhi is still far away. - It asks who among the listed historical figures is known for this saying. - The options include Sufi saints and intellectuals from medieval India. - We assume the context is the rivalry and tension between rulers of the Tughlaq dynasty and Sufi saints of Delhi. Concept / Approach: The phrase is traditionally associated with the Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya of the Chishti order. According to historical tradition, this remark was made in response to the news that Sultan Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq was returning to Delhi after a campaign and that he was displeased with Nizamuddin Auliya. The saint is said to have remarked that Delhi is still far away, hinting that the ruler might not reach the capital safely. Shortly after, the Sultan died in an accident at Tughlakabad. The approach is to recall the association of famous quotations with specific Sufi saints and poets. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the phrase is in Persian and is linked to medieval Delhi politics and Sufi tradition. Step 2: Recall that Nizamuddin Auliya was a renowned Chishti Sufi saint based in Delhi during the time of the Tughlaq rulers. Step 3: Remember the popular tradition that when informed about Ghiyasuddin Tughlaqs return, Nizamuddin Auliya is believed to have said Hunuz Dilli dur ast. Step 4: Note that Amir Khusrau was a famous poet and disciple of Nizamuddin Auliya, not the one credited with this particular phrase. Step 5: Eliminate other names that do not match the traditional story and select Nizamuddin Auliya. Verification / Alternative check: Standard histories of the Delhi Sultanate and many popular accounts of Sufi saints recount the story of Nizamuddin Auliya and the phrase Delhi is still far away. While some details of the story may vary, the association of this remark with Nizamuddin Auliya remains consistent. Amir Khusrau is well known for his poetry and music but is not credited with this particular warning. Other scholars like Yahya Sirhindi or Ziauddin Barani are chroniclers, not the source of this famous line, which further confirms that Nizamuddin Auliya is the correct choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Amir Khusrau: A great poet and disciple of Nizamuddin Auliya, but not the one who is traditionally credited with this statement. Yahya Sirhindi: A medieval scholar, but he is not associated with the famous phrase about Delhi being far away. Muinuddin Chishti: A revered Sufi saint of Ajmer who lived earlier than the Tughlaq period, not linked with this specific remark. Ziauddin Barani: A chronicler and historian of the Delhi Sultanate, known for his writings, not for this saying. Common Pitfalls: One common mistake is to associate any famous medieval intellectual with the quote without checking the specific context. Students sometimes choose Amir Khusrau because of his fame as a poet and his closeness to Nizamuddin Auliya. Another error is to confuse different Sufi saints of North India. Remembering the story of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, the supposed curse and the accident at Tughlakabad helps tie the phrase clearly to Nizamuddin Auliya and avoid confusion. Final Answer: The phrase Hunuz Dilli dur ast, meaning Delhi is still far away, is traditionally attributed to Nizamuddin Auliya.

Question 13

Which Mughal emperor is known for imprisoning his own father and ordering the execution of his elder brother in the internal war of succession?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question focuses on internal conflicts within the Mughal dynasty. The Mughal emperors often faced bitter wars of succession, where princes fought against their own family members. The question asks which emperor imprisoned his father and executed his brother, events that are central to the history of the Mughal Empire in the seventeenth century. Knowing these relationships helps you keep track of the Mughal family tree and major turning points in their rule. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question is about a Mughal emperor. - It specifically states that he imprisoned his father and executed his elder brother. - The options list well known Mughal rulers from different periods. - We assume the context is the war of succession among the sons of Shah Jahan. Concept / Approach: After Shah Jahan fell ill, his sons Dara Shukoh, Aurangzeb, Shah Shuja and Murad Baksh fought for the throne. Aurangzeb emerged victorious after a series of battles. He then imprisoned his father Shah Jahan in the Agra Fort and arranged the execution of his elder brother Dara Shukoh, who had been Shah Jahans chosen successor. The approach is to match this well known sequence of events with the correct emperor. Other Mughal rulers such as Babur, Humayun and Shah Alam II did not imprison their own father and execute an elder brother in this way. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Shah Jahan was the Mughal emperor who built the Taj Mahal and that he had several sons, including Dara Shukoh and Aurangzeb. Step 2: Remember that after Shah Jahan fell ill, a war of succession broke out between his sons. Step 3: Aurangzeb defeated his brothers, captured Shah Jahan and kept him imprisoned in the Agra Fort for the rest of his life. Step 4: Dara Shukoh, the elder brother and original heir apparent, was captured and executed on Aurangzebs orders. Step 5: Match this description with the options and identify Aurangzeb as the emperor who did both of these actions. Verification / Alternative check: A simple verification method is to place the rulers in chronological order: Babur founded the empire, Humayun was his son, Akbar followed, then Jahangir, Shah Jahan and finally Aurangzeb. Only in the time of Aurangzeb do we find a documented case where the emperor imprisoned his father and eliminated an elder brother. Shah Alam II ruled much later during the declining phase of the Mughal Empire and did not perform these specific actions. This chronological check confirms Aurangzeb as the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Babur: Founder of the Mughal Empire who did not imprison his father or execute his elder brother in this context. Humayun: Faced many difficulties and exile, but he did not imprison his father Babur or execute a brother to seize the throne. Shah Alam II: A later Mughal ruler during the time of British ascendancy, not associated with this war of succession story. Jahangir: Son of Akbar, who revolted at one stage, but the dramatic imprisonment of a father and execution of an elder brother is not attributed to him. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse the relationships between different Mughal rulers, especially Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb, or mix events of different successions. Another error is to assume that all Mughal wars of succession involved similar actions, which is not accurate. Remembering the specific story of Aurangzeb taking power by defeating Dara Shukoh and confining Shah Jahan makes it easier to tie this question to the correct emperor. Final Answer: The Mughal emperor who imprisoned his father and had his elder brother executed was Aurangzeb.

Question 14

In the context of ancient Indian religious history, the term Buddha is a title given to Siddhartha Gautama. Literally, what does the word Buddha mean?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question belongs to the field of ancient Indian religions, specifically Buddhism. Siddhartha Gautama is commonly referred to as the Buddha, but this is a title rather than a personal name. Understanding the literal meaning of the word Buddha is important for appreciating the core ideas of Buddhism and is frequently tested in examinations on general knowledge and Indian culture. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question asks about the literal meaning of the term Buddha. - It refers to the title given to Siddhartha Gautama after his spiritual awakening. - Several possible meanings are offered, such as enlightened one, preacher or powerful one. - We assume the question expects the standard dictionary and scriptural meaning used in Buddhist studies. Concept / Approach: The word Buddha is derived from the Sanskrit root budh, which means to awaken or to know. Therefore, Buddha is usually translated as the awakened one or the enlightened one. It signifies a person who has attained complete insight into the nature of reality and is free from ignorance and suffering. The approach to solving the question is to recall this standard translation and distinguish it from more general or vague titles like genius or powerful one, which do not capture the doctrinal meaning of the term. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree at Bodh Gaya and thereafter was known as the Buddha. Step 2: Understand that the root budh in Sanskrit and Pali languages carries the meaning to awaken or to become aware. Step 3: Recognise that Buddha is conventionally translated as the enlightened one or the awakened one in religious and academic literature. Step 4: Compare this precise meaning with the options given and see that only the enlightened one accurately reflects the doctrinal sense. Step 5: Reject general or misleading terms like genius, religious preacher or powerful one, and select the enlightened one. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, you can recall that Buddhist texts often describe enlightenment as Bodhi and the person who attains it as a Buddha, meaning one who is awakened to the true nature of existence. Standard reference works on Buddhism and school textbooks consistently translate Buddha as the enlightened one or awakened one, never simply as preacher, genius or powerful king. This cross check ensures that the answer is not based on guesswork but on the accepted scholarly meaning. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The religious preacher: While the Buddha certainly preached the Dharma, the term Buddha is not defined as preacher but as enlightened one. The genius: Genius refers to exceptional intellectual ability but does not capture the spiritual awakening implied in Buddha. The powerful one: This suggests physical or political power, which is not the essential idea behind the term. The victorious king: Gautama renounced royal life; the title Buddha does not mean victorious king but rather one who has conquered ignorance. Common Pitfalls: Some learners assume that Buddha must mean a religious leader or a wise person in a general sense and therefore mistakenly choose options like religious preacher or genius. Others may be distracted by the idea of royal birth and imagine that the title refers to a king. It is important to remember that Buddhism emphasises inner awakening, so the correct interpretation of Buddha is tied directly to enlightenment rather than worldly power or general intelligence. Final Answer: Thus, the word Buddha literally means The enlightened one.

Question 15

In the study of the Indus Valley Civilization, which site is generally regarded as the earliest city discovered within present day India?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question belongs to ancient Indian history and archaeology, focusing on the Indus Valley Civilization, also called the Harappan Civilization. The earliest major site to be excavated, which led to the recognition of this civilisation, holds special importance. Exams often ask which city was first discovered, because that discovery changed the understanding of Indias ancient urban past. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question is about the earliest city discovered in the context of the Indus Valley Civilization. - It provides several urban sites associated with the Harappan world. - We assume the question refers to the first major site excavated in the early twentieth century that revealed the existence of this urban civilisation. - The term earliest here refers to discovery and recognition, not necessarily the oldest phase of occupation in absolute time. Concept / Approach: Harappa, located in present day Pakistan, was the first major site of this civilisation to be excavated in the 1920s by archaeologists like Daya Ram Sahni. Its discovery led to the recognition of a previously unknown Bronze Age urban culture in the northwestern part of the subcontinent. Mohenjodaro was excavated soon after and is also extremely important, but Harappa holds the distinction of being the first city that brought this civilisation to light. The approach is to recall the sequence of archaeological discoveries rather than just the relative importance of sites. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the question is about the Indus Valley or Harappan Civilization. Step 2: Recall that the excavation of Harappa in the early twentieth century first revealed evidence of a large, planned urban settlement. Step 3: Recognise that Mohenjodaro was excavated soon after Harappa and became equally famous, but it was not the first discovery. Step 4: Note that Rangpur, Kalibangan and Lothal are later excavated sites which helped expand understanding of the civilisation but do not hold the distinction of earliest discovery. Step 5: Based on this sequence, select Harappa as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: A simple verification method is to recall the alternative name of the civilisation itself. It is commonly called the Harappan Civilization, named after Harappa, the first major site to be excavated. Standard history textbooks clearly state that Harappa and Mohenjodaro were the first sites discovered, with Harappa slightly earlier. Later sites like Lothal and Kalibangan expanded the geographical picture. This supports the choice of Harappa as the earliest discovered city. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Rangpur: An important Harappan site in Gujarat, but discovered later and not the first major city identified. Mohenjodaro: A key site of the civilisation but excavated after Harappa, so it is not the earliest discovery. Kalibangan: A Harappan site in Rajasthan, crucial for understanding early and late phases, but identified later. Lothal: An important port town of the civilisation, excavated in the mid twentieth century, not the first city discovered. Common Pitfalls: The most common error is to choose Mohenjodaro because it is very famous and often illustrated in textbooks. Some students also confuse earliest discovered with oldest in terms of date of occupation. The question is about archaeological discovery order, not exact chronological age. Remembering that the civilisation is alternatively called Harappan helps link the earliest discovery with Harappa and prevents confusion. Final Answer: Therefore, the earliest city of the Indus Valley Civilization to be discovered was Harappa.

Question 16

With reference to early agriculture and trade, cotton as a textile crop was first cultivated on a significant scale in which ancient region?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests knowledge of ancient economic history, specifically the origins of cotton cultivation for textile production. Cotton played a major role in the development of cloth manufacturing and trade. India has a long history of cotton cultivation and cotton textile production, and this fact is often asked in general knowledge and history examinations. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question asks where cotton for textile use was first cultivated on a significant scale. - The options list major ancient civilisations and regions: Egypt, India, Mesopotamia, Central America and China. - We assume the question refers to widely accepted scholarly views on early cotton cultivation and textile production. Concept / Approach: Archaeological and historical evidence shows that India was one of the earliest, and for a long period the most important, centres of cotton cultivation and cotton textile production. The Indus Valley Civilization provides early evidence of cotton use. Later, Indian cotton textiles became famous across the ancient and medieval world for their quality and were exported to West Asia, Africa and Europe. While other regions also cultivated cotton, the earliest and most continuous tradition of cotton textiles is associated with India. The approach is to connect the historical reputation of Indian cotton with its early origin. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the Indus Valley Civilization, located in parts of present day India and Pakistan, shows early evidence of cotton fibres and textiles. Step 2: Understand that later in history, Indian cotton textiles, such as muslin and calico, became major export items and were highly prized. Step 3: Recognise that India is widely regarded as one of the earliest regions where cotton was cultivated and processed systematically for textiles. Step 4: Compare this with Egypt and Mesopotamia, which were famous for linen and wool textiles respectively, rather than being the earliest for cotton. Step 5: Eliminate other regions and select India as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, you can recall that ancient Indian literature and foreign accounts repeatedly mention cotton and cotton cloth from the subcontinent. Greek and Roman writers refer to Indian cotton garments. Archaeologists have also found traces of cotton in Indus Valley sites, which indicates early cultivation and use. These strands of evidence point to India as an early and leading region for cotton textiles, confirming the choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Egypt: Famous for flax and linen production in antiquity rather than as the earliest centre of cotton textile cultivation. Mesopotamia: Known more for woollen textiles and early urban culture; cotton appears later and less prominently. Central America: Certain cotton species were cultivated there, but in the context of world history and traditional exam questions, India is recognised as the earliest and most significant centre. China: Known for silk and later cotton, but not as the earliest cradle of cotton cultivation for textiles when compared to India. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes choose Egypt because it is strongly associated with ancient textiles and river valley civilisation, or they may assume Mesopotamia as a default ancient region. Another mistake is not distinguishing between different fibres like flax, wool and cotton. Keeping in mind that India was historically renowned specifically for cotton, while Egypt for linen and China for silk, helps prevent such confusion. Final Answer: Cotton for textile use was first cultivated on a major scale in India.

Question 17

Within the Indus Valley or Harappan Civilization, the famous bull seal depicting a powerful bull figure was discovered from which of the following archaeological sites?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question relates to the material culture of the Indus Valley Civilization, in particular the seals that have been discovered during excavations. Certain seals, like the so called unicorn seals and bull seals, are frequently mentioned in textbooks because they provide insight into religious beliefs, trade and art. The question asks from which site the famous bull seal was found, testing the association between a specific artefact and a major Harappan site. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question is about a famous bull seal of the Indus Valley Civilization. - It asks you to identify the archaeological site from which this seal was discovered. - The options list several Harappan sites, including Harappa, Mohenjodaro, Lothal and others. - We assume that the question refers to a widely cited bull seal that is commonly linked with Mohenjodaro in exam material. Concept / Approach: Seals from the Indus Valley Civilization depict animals and symbols, possibly connected to religious or economic life. The famous bull seal, often pictured in textbooks, is associated with Mohenjodaro. While seals have been found at several sites, certain iconic examples are consistently tied to specific locations in standard exam oriented literature. The approach is to recall which site is most commonly mentioned along with the bull seal and not to confuse it with other sites known for different special finds. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that seals with animal motifs are a key feature of Harappan artefacts. Step 2: Recall that Mohenjodaro, along with Harappa, was one of the main urban centres where many seals were unearthed. Step 3: Remember that exam guides and history textbooks frequently refer to a famous bull seal from Mohenjodaro. Step 4: Note that Lothal is often linked with dockyard remains, while other sites have their own distinct notable finds. Step 5: Match this knowledge with the options and choose Mohenjodaro as the correct site. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, you can think of how commonly Mohenjodaro appears in images of Indus seals in study materials. Many illustrations mention it as the source of the bull seal. Harappa certainly produced many seals as well, but the particular famous bull seal that is highlighted in exam contexts is typically associated with Mohenjodaro. Cross checking with standard question banks and textbook captions confirms this association. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Harappa: Another major Harappan city that yielded many seals, but the most famous bull seal referred to in exam contexts is noted from Mohenjodaro. Chanhudaro: A smaller Harappan site known for craft production, not primarily for the iconic bull seal mentioned here. Lothal: Well known for its dockyard and maritime connections rather than this particular seal. Ropar: A Harappan site in present day Punjab, but not the source of the specific widely known bull seal. Common Pitfalls: Students often confuse Harappa and Mohenjodaro because both produced similar artefacts, including seals. Without recalling the specific textbook association, one might select Harappa by guess. Another pitfall is to assume that any Indus site listed can be correct without considering which site is repeatedly linked to the famous bull seal in study material. Keeping track of key artefact site pairings, such as the bull seal with Mohenjodaro and dockyard with Lothal, helps avoid mistakes. Final Answer: The famous bull seal of the Indus Valley Civilization was discovered at Mohenjodaro.

Question 18

Among the following rivers, which one is not mentioned in the hymns of the Rigveda, the earliest Vedic text of ancient India?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question relates to the geography of the Vedic age as reflected in the Rigveda, the oldest of the Vedic texts. The Rigvedic hymns mention several rivers of northwestern and northern India, which helps scholars reconstruct the area where the Vedic people lived. The question asks which river among the options is not mentioned in the Rigveda at all, testing both knowledge of Vedic geography and familiarity with Indian rivers in general. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question is restricted to rivers mentioned in the Rigveda. - The options include Sindhu, Saraswati, Yamuna, Periyar and Gomti. - We assume the standard scholarly consensus that the Rigveda describes mainly rivers of the northwestern region, not peninsular rivers like Periyar. Concept / Approach: The Rigveda frequently mentions the Sindhu river and its tributaries. It also praises the Saraswati river and refers, though less often, to rivers like Yamuna. The Vedic geography focuses on the northwestern part of the subcontinent. Periyar, on the other hand, is a major river of southern India, flowing in Kerala, and lies far outside the Vedic heartland described in the Rigveda. Therefore, a good strategy is to identify which river does not belong to the northwestern or northern region and hence is unlikely to be named in the Rigvedic hymns. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that Sindhu is simply another name for the Indus river, which is one of the most prominent rivers in the Rigveda. Step 2: Recall that Saraswati is praised in several Rigvedic hymns as a mighty and sacred river. Step 3: Remember that Yamuna, although less prominent than Saraswati or Sindhu, is also mentioned in the Rigveda. Step 4: Note that Periyar is a river of southern India in the present state of Kerala and is not part of the northwestern Vedic river system. Step 5: Based on this regional and textual logic, identify Periyar as the river not mentioned in the Rigveda. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, you can mentally list the rivers most frequently appearing in Rigvedic discussions: Sindhu, Saraswati, Ravi, Beas, Sutlej, and others in the Punjab region, along with some mention of Yamuna and Ganga. All of these belong to the north or northwest. When you contrast this with Periyar, which flows entirely in the far south, it becomes clear that it is not a Rigvedic river. Textual analysis by historians consistently confirms that Periyar is absent from Rigvedic references. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Sindhu: Central to Rigvedic hymns; the very name Hindustan is indirectly related to this river. Saraswati: Highly praised in the Rigveda and described as a mighty river and goddess. Yamuna: Mentioned in the Rigveda, though not as frequently as Sindhu or Saraswati. Gomti: While not as prominent as Sindhu or Saraswati, it is part of the northern river system and not the southern region like Periyar, and is more consistent with the Vedic geographic sphere than Periyar. Common Pitfalls: Some students may not be fully familiar with the location of Periyar and might choose Yamuna or Gomti by mistake. Another error is assuming that only the famous Ganga and Yamuna were known in the Rigvedic period, overlooking Sindhu and Saraswati, which are actually more central in Rigvedic hymns. Carefully linking the Rigveda with the northwestern geography and recognising Periyar as a southern river helps avoid confusion. Final Answer: The river that has no mention in the Rigveda is Periyar.

Question 19

In Indian philosophical tradition, who is regarded as the chief expounder and compiler of the classical Yoga philosophy through the Yoga Sutras?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question relates to the systems of Indian philosophy, specifically the classical Yoga school. Indian philosophy is often grouped into various darshanas, such as Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Sankhya, Yoga, Mimamsa and Vedanta. Each system has a key teacher or compiler associated with its main texts. The question asks for the expounder of Yoga philosophy, which is an important part of both spiritual practice and philosophical thought in India. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question is about Yoga philosophy, one of the orthodox systems of Indian thought. - It asks who expounded or compiled this philosophy into a classical form. - The options include several well known philosophers and teachers: Patanjali, Gautama, Jaimini, Shankaracharya and Kapila. - We assume the question refers to the Yoga Sutras, the foundational text of the Yoga school. Concept / Approach: The Yoga school is closely linked with the figure of Patanjali, who is traditionally credited with compiling and systematising its teachings in the form of the Yoga Sutras. These aphorisms outline the eightfold path of Yoga and its ethical, mental and meditative practices. In contrast, Gautama is associated with the Nyaya system, Jaimini with the Mimamsa system, Shankaracharya with Advaita Vedanta and Kapila with Sankhya. The approach is to match each philosopher with the correct school and identify which one belongs to Yoga. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the six orthodox schools of Indian philosophy and their key exponents. Step 2: Note that Patanjali is traditionally credited with composing the Yoga Sutras, a foundational text on Yoga. Step 3: Remember that Gautama is linked to Nyaya, a school of logic, not to Yoga. Step 4: Recognise that Jaimini founded the Mimamsa school of ritualistic interpretation and that Shankaracharya is associated with Advaita Vedanta. Step 5: Identify Patanjali as the correct expounder of Yoga philosophy and select his name from the options. Verification / Alternative check: An alternative check is to recall popular associations: when people refer to classical Yoga philosophy in a textual sense, they usually mention Patanjali. Many modern Yoga schools around the world refer directly to Patanjalis Yoga Sutras as a foundational work. Academic texts also place Patanjali firmly in the Yoga tradition, while clearly associating Gautama with Nyaya, Jaimini with Mimamsa and Kapila with Sankhya. This division confirms that Patanjali is the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Gautama: Founder of the Nyaya school, which deals with logic and epistemology, not Yoga practice as a separate system. Jaimini: Founder of the Purva Mimamsa system, focusing on Vedic ritual interpretation. Shankaracharya: Leading exponent of Advaita Vedanta, which is a non dualistic philosophy of Brahman and Atman, not the Yoga system itself. Kapila: Traditionally associated with the Sankhya school, which is closely related to Yoga in metaphysics but is not identical to Patanjalis Yoga system. Common Pitfalls: Because the philosophical systems are interrelated, students sometimes mix up their exponents, especially Kapila and Patanjali, since Sankhya and Yoga share similar metaphysical ideas. Another mistake is to choose Shankaracharya due to his fame, even though he belongs to Vedanta. Remembering a simple pairing list such as Patanjali Yoga, Kapila Sankhya, Gautama Nyaya and Jaimini Mimamsa can greatly reduce confusion. Final Answer: The chief expounder and compiler of classical Yoga philosophy was Patanjali.

Question 20

In ancient Indian legal and social tradition, who is regarded as the great law giver of early times, whose name is attached to a famous legal text on social and moral duties?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question deals with ancient Indian law and social codes. Many early texts set out rules of conduct for different groups in society. Among them, the name Manu is strongly associated with a famous legal text that shaped traditional views of law and social order. Examinations commonly refer to Manu as a great law giver of ancient India, so it is important to link his name correctly with this role. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question asks for the great law giver of ancient times. - It hints that this figure is associated with a legal text concerning social and moral duties. - The options list Manu, Vatsyayana, Ashoka, Aryabhatta and Kautilya, each known for different fields. - We assume the question refers to traditional Hindu law codes, especially the text often called Manusmriti or the laws of Manu. Concept / Approach: Manu is traditionally regarded as an ancient law giver whose teachings are preserved in the text Manusmriti. This work lays down rules about caste duties, social conduct, family relationships and moral obligations. In exam oriented history and polity, Manu is often introduced as the great law giver of ancient India. In contrast, Vatsyayana is associated with the Kamasutra, Ashoka with Buddhist inscriptions and edicts, Aryabhatta with mathematics and astronomy, and Kautilya with political treatises like the Arthashastra. The approach is to match each name with his main contribution and select the one with legal authority. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the question is about ancient law and social regulation, not about politics, science or literature. Step 2: Recall that Manusmriti is a text on law and social duties traditionally attributed to Manu. Step 3: Recognise that many textbooks refer to Manu as the great law giver of ancient India. Step 4: Match the other options with their well known fields: Vatsyayana with Kamasutra, Ashoka with Buddhist edicts, Aryabhatta with mathematics and Kautilya with Arthashastra. Step 5: Conclude that Manu is the only option whose name is directly tied to a legal and social code, making him the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, you can mentally list classical Indian writers and their works: Manu with Manusmriti, Vatsyayana with Kamasutra, Kautilya with Arthashastra and Aryabhatta with Aryabhatiya. Only Manusmriti is a comprehensive legal and moral code, and it is explicitly a law book. Standard history and polity texts often label Manu as the law giver, confirming his role as intended by the question. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Vatsyayana: Known for the Kamasutra, a treatise on human relationships and aesthetic aspects, not a general legal code. Ashoka: A Mauryan emperor famous for his rock and pillar edicts promoting Dharma and Buddhism, but not primarily a systematic law giver in the sense of a legal code author. Aryabhatta: A great mathematician and astronomer, not associated with legal texts. Kautilya: Author of the Arthashastra, a work on statecraft and economics, focused on governance rather than a broad social law code for all classes and stages of life. Common Pitfalls: Sometimes students mix up Kautilya and Manu because both are connected with laws and politics. However, Kautilya deals mainly with statecraft, while Manu is associated with social and religious law. Another pitfall is to pick Ashoka, assuming that his edicts are legal pronouncements, but these are moral and religious declarations rather than a structured legal code like Manusmriti. Remembering each figure with his primary work helps avoid confusion. Final Answer: The great ancient law giver referred to in the question is Manu.

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