Question 1

In the Maratha administration, the Peshwa’s secretariat at Poona (Pune), which acted as the central office and pivot of the Maratha government, was known by which name?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question belongs to Maratha administrative history. As the Peshwas gradually became the de facto heads of the Maratha Empire, their secretariat at Poona turned into the main centre of government. The name of this secretariat is a standard fact often asked in examinations dealing with Maratha polity and administrative institutions. Given Data / Assumptions: The administrative setup is that of the Maratha Empire. The location is Poona (present day Pune), the seat of the Peshwas. The office is the central secretariat or main government record office under the Peshwa. The options offer names such as Huzur Daftar, El Beriz Daftar, Chalte Daftar, Peshwa Daftar and Sarkar Daftar. Concept / Approach: The key concept is the terminology used for Maratha record offices. The main secretariat at Poona, where central records and correspondence were maintained, was known as the Huzur Daftar. Other terms like Chalte Daftar could refer to mobile or camp offices, but the fixed central secretariat that served as the pivot of Maratha administration under the Peshwas was Huzur Daftar. Therefore, when the question refers to the Peshwa’s secretariat at Poona, you should identify it with this name. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that Poona was the political and administrative headquarters of the Peshwas.Step 2: Recall that the main record office and secretariat of the Peshwa government was called the Huzur Daftar.Step 3: Understand that this office maintained important state documents, revenue records and correspondence.Step 4: Compare this with other possible names offered in the options, which do not match the standard term used in historical accounts.Step 5: Select Huzur Daftar as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Why Other Options Are Wrong: El Beriz Daftar: Not commonly cited in standard histories as the name of the main Peshwa secretariat. Chalte Daftar: Could refer to a moving or camp office but not to the main central secretariat at Poona. Peshwa Daftar: Sounds descriptive but is not the historical term used for the principal secretariat. Sarkar Daftar: A generic sounding phrase and not the specific historically attested name for the Peshwas central office. Common Pitfalls: Because several Persian derived administrative terms end with Daftar, it is easy to be confused by plausible sounding options. Students who rely only on guesswork may pick Peshwa Daftar or Sarkar Daftar, thinking that the simpler phrase must be correct. The safest approach is to memorise Huzur Daftar as the specific traditional name of the Peshwa’s secretariat at Poona. Final Answer: The Peshwa’s secretariat at Poona, which acted as the pivot of the Maratha government, was known as the Huzur Daftar.

Question 2

The Mughal Empire ruled large parts of India for about one and a half centuries and gave considerable political unity to the country. In which of the following fields did the Mughals not fully succeed, despite their achievements?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question asks you to evaluate the achievements and limitations of the Mughal Empire. The Mughals did succeed in creating a large, relatively stable empire with a sophisticated bureaucracy and flourishing economy. However, there was one area in which they did not fully succeed, especially when judged by modern ideas of nationhood and cultural integration. Understanding this limitation helps you see why later political changes were possible despite Mughal strength. Given Data / Assumptions: The time frame covers the effective rule of the Mughals, roughly from Akbar to Aurangzeb. The empire is credited with giving political unity to much of India. The options mention administration, political stability, trade and industry, revenue systems and common culture or homogeneous nationhood. The question asks in which field they did not fully succeed. Concept / Approach: The main concept is the difference between imperial unity and modern national unity. The Mughals built a strong centralised empire with administrative machinery like mansabdari, jagir assignments and regular revenue settlements. Trade and industry also grew during their rule. However, they ruled over a highly diverse population, and despite cultural synthesis in some areas, they could not fully create a single common culture or fuse all communities into a homogeneous nation. Modern nationalism, with equal citizenship and shared identity across religions and regions, was a much later development. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that the Mughals are praised for administrative efficiency, especially under Akbar and his immediate successors.Step 2: Recall that political stability and law and order over large territories were also major accomplishments in much of the seventeenth century.Step 3: Note that urban centres, crafts and long distance trade flourished during Mughal rule, supporting the idea that trade and industry developed.Step 4: Understand that, despite a degree of cultural blending, religious and regional identities remained distinct, and the idea of a single homogeneous nation did not emerge.Step 5: Therefore, among the options, the field in which the Mughals did not fully succeed is establishing a common culture and unifying all communities into a homogeneous nation. Verification / Alternative check: Why Other Options Are Wrong: Creating an efficient system of administration: The Mughal administrative machinery, especially under Akbar, is widely regarded as efficient for its time. Maintaining political stability over vast areas: For several generations, the empire provided a relatively stable political framework across North and Central India. Encouraging development of trade and industry: Trade routes, urban markets and artisanal production expanded under the Mughals. Developing a regular revenue system: Through systems like Todar Mals settlement, the Mughals built a fairly regular and predictable revenue structure. Common Pitfalls: Some students idealise the Mughals and assume they achieved everything, while others focus only on their failures. The correct view recognises substantial administrative and economic success but limited progress toward modern style national integration. Do not confuse relative political unity under an empire with a fully developed common national culture or homogeneous nation in the modern sense. Final Answer: The Mughals did not fully succeed in establishing a common culture and unifying all communities into a homogeneous nation in India.

Question 3

In early medieval Indian religious history, King Harsha (Harshavardhana) is generally regarded as the last great royal patron of which religion before major changes in North India reduced its royal support?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question explores the decline of royal patronage for Buddhism in North India. Several dynasties earlier, such as those of Ashoka and the Kushanas, had strongly supported Buddhism. By the time of Harsha in the seventh century, Buddhism still enjoyed significant royal backing, but later political and religious changes led to a decrease in such support. Recognising Harsha as the last great royal patron highlights a turning point in the fortunes of Buddhism in the region. Given Data / Assumptions: The ruler mentioned is Harsha, also known as Harshavardhana. He ruled large parts of North India in the seventh century. The question asks which religion he is regarded as the last great royal patron of. The options include Jainism, Buddhism, Shaivism, Bhagavatism (Vaishnavism) and Shaktism. Concept / Approach: The key concept is Harshas close association with Buddhism. Chinese traveller Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang) visited his court and reported that Harsha showed deep respect for Buddhist monks and organised great religious assemblies in which Buddhism was honoured. Although Harsha was personally eclectic and respected multiple faiths, his strong support to Buddhist institutions in North India leads many historians to call him the last great royal patron of Buddhism in that region before its decline due to changing patronage and later invasions. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Harsha ruled from around 606 to 647 CE and established a large kingdom in North India.Step 2: Remember that the Chinese pilgrim Xuanzang described Harshas deep support for Buddhist monasteries and his grand assemblies at places like Kannauj.Step 3: Note that after Harshas time, political fragmentation and the rise of other religious currents reduced large scale royal support for Buddhism in North India.Step 4: Compare this with the options and identify Buddhism as the religion for which he is called the last great royal patron.Step 5: Select Buddhism as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Why Other Options Are Wrong: Jainism: Although Jainism had patrons in various regions, Harsha is not specifically known as the last great royal patron of Jainism. Shaivism: Shaivism gained royal support later under many dynasties; Harsha is not singled out in history as its last major royal supporter. Bhagavatism (Vaishnavism): Vaishnavism received strong patronage under later rulers too, so the idea of Harsha as last great patron does not apply. Shaktism: Worship of the Goddess also continued under many later dynasties; Harsha is not specifically highlighted as its final great patron. Common Pitfalls: Because Harsha is sometimes described as personally eclectic and tolerant, students may mistakenly conclude that he cannot be strongly associated with any single religion. However, the exam fact you must remember is that he provided major patronage to Buddhism in North India, and because large scale royal support declined after him, he is described as the last great royal patron of Buddhism in that region. Final Answer: Harsha is generally regarded as the last great royal patron of Buddhism in North India.

Question 4

The Cholas were noted for their successful overseas naval expeditions. Which of the following Chola rulers is especially known for leading a major naval campaign that extended Chola power to Sri Lanka and South East Asia, including an invasion of th…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question relates to the maritime achievements of the Chola dynasty of South India. The Cholas were among the few Indian powers to project naval strength far across the Indian Ocean. Two rulers in particular, Rajaraja I and his son Rajendra I, expanded Chola influence through overseas expeditions. One of them is especially famous for attacking the powerful kingdom of Srivijaya in Sumatra and asserting Chola influence over parts of South East Asia. Given Data / Assumptions: The dynasty is the imperial Cholas of South India. The question focuses on overseas naval campaigns, particularly to Sri Lanka and South East Asia. It mentions the invasion of Srivijaya in Sumatra as a key event. The options list Parantaka I, Rajaraja I, Rajendra I, both Rajaraja I and Rajendra I, and Kulottunga I. Concept / Approach: The main concept is to distinguish between Rajaraja I and Rajendra I. Rajaraja I successfully conquered parts of Sri Lanka and extended Chola control over the Maldives and coastal regions, laying the foundation for a strong navy. Rajendra I, his son, carried these achievements further by launching a famous naval expedition against the Srivijaya empire in South East Asia, attacking ports in present day Sumatra, Malaya and nearby regions. Because the question specifically mentions an invasion of Srivijaya in Sumatra, the ruler being referred to is Rajendra I. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Rajaraja I expanded Chola power through campaigns in South India, Sri Lanka and the Indian Ocean islands.Step 2: Remember that Rajendra I not only continued his father’s policies but also mounted a dramatic expedition across the Bay of Bengal.Step 3: Identify the target of this expedition as the Srivijaya kingdom in Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula, which controlled important sea routes.Step 4: Note that the question emphasises the invasion of Srivijaya, which is a well known highlight of Rajendra I’s reign.Step 5: Therefore, choose Rajendra I as the correct answer from the given options. Verification / Alternative check: Why Other Options Are Wrong: Parantaka I: An earlier Chola ruler who expanded influence in South India but is not known for major overseas naval expeditions to Sumatra. Rajaraja I: Conquered large parts of Sri Lanka and nearby islands, but the famous Srivijaya campaign in South East Asia is associated with his son Rajendra I. Both Rajaraja I and Rajendra I equally: While both were important, the specific invasion of Srivijaya mentioned in the question is linked to Rajendra I. Kulottunga I: A later Chola ruler with his own achievements, but not the main figure behind the classic Srivijaya campaign. Common Pitfalls: Because both Rajaraja I and Rajendra I were powerful rulers who used the Chola navy, candidates sometimes treat them as interchangeable in questions on overseas expeditions. This leads to choosing both or picking Rajaraja by habit. The best way to avoid confusion is to associate Sri Lanka and island conquests mainly with Rajaraja and the distant expedition to Srivijaya in Sumatra with Rajendra I. Final Answer: The Chola ruler especially known for leading a major overseas naval expedition that extended Chola power to Sri Lanka and South East Asia, including the invasion of Srivijaya in Sumatra, was Rajendra I.

Question 5

In the context of United States history, what fundamental human rights does the Declaration of Independence primarily express and proclaim for the people?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question moves briefly outside Indian history and touches on United States history because the Declaration of Independence is often cited as a classic statement of human rights. Many competitive examinations expect you to know what kind of rights this famous document actually proclaims. Rather than listing technical legal rules, the Declaration focuses on broad, philosophical principles about the rights of people and the basis of government authority. Given Data / Assumptions: - The document in question is the United States Declaration of Independence of 1776. - The question asks what kind of rights the Declaration primarily expresses. - The options include police procedure rights, citizenship rights, legal rights and broader human or natural rights. - We assume a basic awareness that the Declaration is a political and philosophical statement, not a detailed legal code or constitution. Concept / Approach: The key idea is that the Declaration of Independence proclaims natural or inalienable rights. It famously states that all men are created equal and are endowed with certain unalienable rights, among them life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. These rights are described as belonging to people by virtue of being human, not as privileges granted by any king or parliament. The approach is to distinguish between broad human rights and more specific legal or procedural rights that come later in other documents such as the United States Constitution and its amendments. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the famous lines of the Declaration that speak of unalienable rights, including life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Step 2: Notice that these are not technical courtroom rights or police procedure rules but very general human or natural rights. Step 3: Recognise that rights such as the right to remain silent or other protections during police interrogation come from later legal developments, not from the Declaration itself. Step 4: Understand that citizenship rules and voting rights are also set out later in constitutional amendments and laws, rather than in this 1776 document. Step 5: Match this understanding with the options and see that the only correct description is the one that refers to basic human or natural rights, including life and liberty. Verification / Alternative check: A quick alternative check is to recall that school textbooks and general knowledge guides often summarise the Declaration of Independence as a statement of natural rights and the right of people to change a government that violates those rights. They rarely describe it as a list of detailed legal rights. If you think of Miranda rights, citizenship clauses or voting rules, you will remember that these belong to the Constitution and later amendments. This confirms that the correct focus of the Declaration is broad human rights, not technical legal procedures. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The right to remain silent when questioned by the police (Miranda rights): These arise from much later court decisions and constitutional interpretation, not from the Declaration of Independence. The automatic right to citizenship for everyone born in the country: Birthright citizenship is defined by later constitutional law, especially the Fourteenth Amendment, and is not stated in the Declaration. Detailed legal and procedural rights of citizens in courts of law: Such rights are mainly found in the Bill of Rights and subsequent legal provisions, rather than in this founding political document. The universal right of every adult to vote in all elections: Voting rights expanded gradually over time through amendments and laws and are not fully expressed in the Declaration. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to treat all famous American documents as if they did the same job. Students sometimes mix up the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Another error is to assume that any modern right, such as Miranda rights or universal suffrage, must be in the earliest document. Keeping in mind that the Declaration is fundamentally a revolutionary and philosophical statement about human rights and the legitimacy of government helps you select the correct option with confidence. Final Answer: The Declaration of Independence primarily expresses basic human or natural rights of people, including life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Question 6

In the context of modern economic history, the expansion of the rail networks in colonial India mainly led to which important developments in the Indian economy?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question focuses on the economic impact of railway expansion in colonial India, a theme that appears frequently in modern Indian history. Railways are often treated as a key symbol of industrial change. Understanding how they affected trade and industries helps you see both the benefits and the limitations of colonial infrastructure projects. Here the question asks what major developments followed the growth of rail networks. Given Data / Assumptions: - The period is colonial India under British rule. - Rail networks expanded steadily from the mid nineteenth century onward. - The question asks specifically about economic effects such as trade and industry. - The options distinguish between trade alone, industry alone, both, or negative effects like decline and isolation. Concept / Approach: Railways reduced the cost and time of transporting goods and people. This naturally encouraged trade between distant regions, allowing grain, cotton, coal and other goods to move more easily. At the same time, building railways required iron, steel and engineering skills, which stimulated related industries, especially the iron and steel sector. The correct approach is to remember that railways had both forward linkages (helping trade and markets) and backward linkages (creating demand for steel and engineering), so their impact cannot be limited to only one side. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that railways connected ports with interior regions, making it easier to move raw materials and finished goods. Step 2: Understand that this connectivity increased inter-regional trade and helped create a national market, even if it was shaped by colonial interests. Step 3: Note that building tracks, bridges and locomotives required large quantities of iron and steel, encouraging the growth of iron and steel works in and around India. Step 4: Recognise that saying only trade grew or only steel expanded is inaccurate because both changed together. Step 5: Compare the options and select the one that clearly mentions growth in both inter-regional trade and the iron and steel industry. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, think of any standard history text that discusses the economic impact of railways. They almost always mention increased movement of goods, integration of markets and the rise of iron and steel manufacturing to support railway construction. They also point out that while some traditional crafts, like handloom textiles, suffered, the overall effect on trade volumes was expansion, not decline. This combination of trade growth and industrial development confirms option C as the most accurate statement. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Only growth in trading between different parts of the country, without any impact on heavy industry: This ignores the clear demand for iron, steel and engineering that railways created. Only expansion of the iron and steel industry, without any major effect on trade: This is also incomplete because better transport obviously helped trade to expand across regions. A general decline in all traditional industries, including both textiles and steel production: Railways did contribute indirectly to the decline of some crafts, but they did not cause a decline in steel production; they increased demand for steel. Isolation of regional markets with reduced long-distance trade across the country: Railways had the opposite effect by connecting markets and promoting long-distance trade. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to focus only on the negative colonial impact of railways, such as helping Britain export raw materials and flood Indian markets with foreign goods, and therefore to assume that railways mainly harmed Indian industry. While those negative aspects are real, they do not change the fact that railways expanded trade and stimulated industries like iron and steel. Another pitfall is to pick an option that describes only one part of the effect instead of the combined picture. Always look for the answer that acknowledges both trade and industrial linkages. Final Answer: The expansion of rail networks in colonial India led to growth in both inter-regional trade and the iron and steel industry that supplied rails and engines.

Question 7

In modern history, how did many nationalist music composers express their sense of nationalism through their songs and musical works?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question explores the cultural side of nationalism, especially in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Nationalist movements did not rely only on speeches and political organisations; they also drew strength from literature, art and music. Nationalist composers used songs to awaken pride, unity and resistance. Understanding the themes they used in their songs helps you see how culture became a powerful tool in building national feeling. Given Data / Assumptions: - The focus is on nationalist music composers and how they expressed nationalism. - The options mention songs about dances, people, peasant life and religious themes. - Some options limit the subject to a single narrow theme, while one option combines several popular themes. - We assume the question refers to a broad pattern found in different countries, including India and Europe. Concept / Approach: Nationalist composers often turned to the everyday culture of their people. They used folk melodies, rural stories, local dances and images of peasants and ordinary citizens to show that the nation belonged to everyone, not just the elite. By doing so, they made music that felt familiar and emotionally powerful. The correct approach is to look for the option that captures this combination of folk elements, people and peasant life, rather than one that restricts nationalism to a single narrow subject like only leaders or only religious themes. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that nationalist composers in many countries collected folk tunes and dances and turned them into patriotic songs. Step 2: Understand that these songs often spoke about the life of ordinary people, peasants, workers and villagers, who were seen as the heart of the nation. Step 3: Notice that purely elite or purely religious themes without any link to the people did not fully represent the broad nationalist message. Step 4: Examine the options and see which one brings together folk dances, ordinary people and peasant life as a unified theme. Step 5: Identify option D as the only one that describes this rich combination and therefore select it as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this by thinking about well known nationalist songs. In India, for example, many patriotic songs use folk tunes, local images, fields, rivers and village life, rather than just praising leaders. Similar patterns can be seen in European nationalist music, where composers drew on local dances and peasant culture. Very few successful nationalist songs were limited only to classical dance or only to religious chants with no national content. This consistent pattern across countries supports option D. Why Other Options Are Wrong: By composing songs only about classical dances, carefully avoiding social or political themes: This is too narrow and deliberately avoids the broad human content that nationalism needs. By writing songs only in praise of a few great political leaders and ignoring common people: Nationalist music did praise leaders, but it also drew heavily on common people and folk culture, so this description is incomplete and misleading. By composing songs only on peasant life and rural hardship, without using folk dances or wider imagery: Peasant life was important, but composers also used dances, festivals and other symbols, so saying only peasant life is not accurate. By composing only devotional hymns about ancient gods with no reference to the nation or its people: Such purely religious hymns may be spiritual but are not necessarily nationalist if they do not refer to the nation or its people at all. Common Pitfalls: A common pitfall is to assume that nationalism works only through high politics and big leaders, so students may be drawn to options that overemphasise political figures. Another mistake is to think that any patriotic song must be purely religious or purely about suffering peasants, ignoring the joyful side of folk dances and festivals. Remembering that nationalist culture tried to unite people by using many familiar elements at once will help you choose the option that reflects this richness rather than a narrow, one dimensional view. Final Answer: Nationalistic composers expressed their nationalism mainly by creating songs that drew inspiration from folk dances, ordinary people and peasant life together, celebrating the nation.

Question 8

In the history of ideas about the heavens, what was the main ancient goal of astrology as practised in many early civilisations?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question distinguishes between astrology and astronomy in ancient times. Many early civilisations carefully observed the sky, but their purposes were not always purely scientific. Astrology grew out of these observations and tried to connect the positions of stars and planets with events in human life. Modern exams often ask what astrology was originally meant to do, so it is important to separate its main goal from later scientific aims of astronomy. Given Data / Assumptions: - The subject is ancient astrology, not modern astronomy. - The question asks for the main goal of astrology in early civilisations. - The options include building scientific models, predicting human events, understanding Earths origin, tracking seasons and sending spacecraft. - We assume a basic awareness that astrology deals with interpreting celestial positions for human affairs. Concept / Approach: Astrology is based on the belief that the positions and movements of celestial bodies influence human destiny and events on Earth. Ancient astrologers drew charts for kings, individuals and empires, predicting battles, harvests and personal fortunes. Astronomy, which seeks to understand the physical universe, later separated itself from these predictive and symbolic practices. The correct approach is therefore to look for the option that clearly mentions predicting human events and fortunes, rather than scientific modelling of the universe or modern space exploration. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that astrology uses horoscopes and birth charts to relate the positions of planets and stars to human lives. Step 2: Understand that rulers in ancient Mesopotamia, India, China and other regions consulted astrologers for guidance on war, marriage, coronations and major decisions. Step 3: Notice that none of these activities involve building precise scientific models or understanding the physical origin of the Earth. Step 4: Examine the options and identify the one that explicitly mentions predicting human events and personal fortunes using celestial positions. Step 5: Reject options that describe purely scientific goals, such as spacecraft navigation or mathematical modelling of planetary motion, because these belong to astronomy, not astrology. Verification / Alternative check: An alternative check is to think of how astrology is still commonly viewed today. People consult horoscopes to learn about their future, personality or life events, which fits the idea of predicting human outcomes. Even though modern science does not accept these claims, the purpose remains the same as in ancient times. Astronomy textbooks, on the other hand, explain planets, stars and galaxies without making predictions about individual lives. This clear difference confirms that prediction of human events is the central goal of astrology. Why Other Options Are Wrong: To construct an accurate scientific model of the universe based only on mathematics and observation: This describes the goal of astronomy and modern physics, not astrology. To understand the geological origin and physical formation of the Earth as a planet: This is a concern of geology and planetary science, not the symbolic practice of astrology. To predict the exact passing of the seasons only for agricultural purposes, without any link to human affairs: Tracking seasons is part of early astronomy and calendar making; astrology goes further by linking the heavens to human events. To calculate the precise laws of planetary motion in order to send spacecraft beyond Earth: Space travel and precise orbital mechanics are modern scientific achievements, far beyond the scope of ancient astrology. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse astrology with astronomy because both involve the sky. A common mistake is to assume that any study of stars must have been scientific in the modern sense. Another pitfall is to believe that astrology primarily tracked seasons, when in fact it focused on the influence of celestial events on human life. Remembering that astrology centres on human predictions, while astronomy centres on understanding celestial objects themselves, helps you select the correct option quickly. Final Answer: The ancient goal of astrology was to predict human events, personal fortunes and worldly outcomes from the positions of celestial bodies.

Question 9

In early Vedic and Upanishadic tradition, who among the following women was a Brahmavadini, a woman seeker of Brahman, who is specifically known for composing some hymns of the Vedas?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question highlights the important role of women in early Indian religious and philosophical literature. The term Brahmavadini refers to a woman who is a seeker and knower of Brahman, the ultimate reality. Some such women are explicitly mentioned in the Vedic and Upanishadic texts. The question asks which of the listed women was not only a Brahmavadini but also credited with composing hymns of the Vedas, which is a specific and important contribution. Given Data / Assumptions: - The focus is on early Vedic or Upanishadic women who were spiritual seekers and teachers. - The term Brahmavadini indicates a woman devoted to the pursuit of Brahman and knowledge. - The options list several famous female figures: Gargi, Lopamudra, Savitri, Leelavati and Maitreyi. - The question asks specifically for one who composed hymns of the Vedas, not just debated or discussed philosophy. Concept / Approach: Traditional sources mention several learned women in ancient India. Gargi and Maitreyi are well known for their philosophical debates in the Upanishads, particularly in King Janaka s court and in dialogues with Yajnavalkya. Lopamudra, the wife of sage Agastya, is specifically associated with hymns in the Rigveda. She is credited with composing verses expressing both spiritual and personal concerns. The correct approach is to recall which of these names is directly linked with Vedic hymn composition, rather than only with philosophical discussion. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Gargi Vachaknavi appears in the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad as a debater who questions Yajnavalkya about the nature of reality. Step 2: Remember that Maitreyi is also mentioned in the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad in profound dialogues with Yajnavalkya on immortality and the Self. Step 3: Recognise that Lopamudra is traditionally known as the wife of sage Agastya and is credited with composing hymns of the Rigveda, often expressing both devotion and the demands of household life. Step 4: Note that Savitri is a powerful mythological figure in later literature and Leelavati is associated with mathematical or literary traditions, not directly with Vedic hymn composition. Step 5: Based on this, identify Lopamudra as the Brahmavadini who composed Vedic hymns and select her as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, you can think of how each of these names appears in standard exam guides. Gargi and Maitreyi are almost always described as women philosophers debating subtle questions in the Upanishads. Lopamudra, on the other hand, is typically mentioned in lists of female rishis or seers credited with Rigvedic hymns. Savitri and Leelavati are rarely, if ever, listed among Vedic hymn composers. This pattern across multiple sources confirms that Lopamudra is the correct choice for this particular question. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Gargi Vachaknavi: A celebrated woman philosopher and Brahmavadini in the Upanishads, known for her debates, but not specifically credited with composing Vedic hymns in the way Lopamudra is. Savitri: A powerful figure in later stories symbolising devotion and determination, but not traditionally listed as a Vedic hymn composer. Leelavati: Associated with literary or mathematical traditions in later periods, not with the Rigveda or Vedic hymn composition. Maitreyi: Like Gargi, she is famous as a philosopher in the Upanishads, conversing with Yajnavalkya, but not directly credited as the composer of Rigvedic hymns. Common Pitfalls: Students often confuse different learned women of ancient India because their stories are all inspiring and are sometimes presented together. This can lead to guessing Gargi or Maitreyi simply because they are well known as Brahmavadinis. The key is to focus on the specific wording of the question, which emphasises composing hymns of the Vedas. When you separate philosophical debate from hymn composition, Lopamudra clearly stands out as the correct answer. Final Answer: The Brahmavadini who is specifically known for composing some hymns of the Vedas is Lopamudra.

Question 10

In English constitutional history, the Glorious Revolution of 1688 clearly demonstrated which key principle about the powers of Parliament in relation to the monarchy?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Although this question falls under general history, it is very relevant for understanding the growth of modern democratic ideas that later influenced India as well. The Glorious Revolution of 1688 in England was a turning point in the relationship between the monarchy and Parliament. It led to the overthrow of King James II and the invitation to William and Mary to take the throne. The question asks what principle about Parliaments powers this revolution clearly demonstrated. Given Data / Assumptions: - The historical event is the Glorious Revolution of 1688 in England. - The question asks specifically about what it showed regarding Parliament s power. - The options present different possibilities: no power, absolute royal power, replacement of Parliament, or the right to remove and replace a monarch. - We assume basic knowledge that this revolution strengthened Parliament and limited the monarchy. Concept / Approach: The Glorious Revolution is often described as a bloodless revolution that firmly established the supremacy of Parliament over the king in constitutional matters. By forcing James II to flee and then formally offering the crown to William and Mary under conditions laid down in the Bill of Rights, Parliament showed that the monarch ruled with its consent. The core principle demonstrated was that Parliament could remove a king who broke the law and invite another ruler to take his place, thereby asserting its ultimate authority in succession and governance. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that James II was accused of abusing his powers and threatening Protestant and parliamentary liberties. Step 2: Remember that leading members of Parliament invited William of Orange and his wife Mary to take the English throne. Step 3: Understand that James II fled and was effectively removed, and that William and Mary accepted the crown under conditions set out by Parliament, especially in the Bill of Rights of 1689. Step 4: Recognise that this process demonstrated that Parliament could decide who would occupy the throne if the existing monarch violated fundamental laws. Step 5: Compare this understanding with the options and select the one that directly mentions Parliaments right to remove and replace a monarch. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, think of how history books summarise the impact of the Glorious Revolution. They often say it established constitutional monarchy and parliamentary supremacy. The Bill of Rights restricted the kings power, guaranteed certain parliamentary privileges and showed that the crown depended on parliamentary approval. None of this fits with the idea of Parliament having no authority or being removable at will by the king. The only option that matches this is the statement that Parliament had the right to remove a monarch and offer the crown to another ruler. Why Other Options Are Wrong: That Parliament had no authority over matters of taxation, religion or succession: In fact, Parliament gained stronger control, especially over taxation and succession, after 1688. That Parliament could be permanently dissolved by the king at his personal will: The revolution restricted such arbitrary powers and reduced the kings ability to suspend or dismiss Parliament freely. That Parliament was completely subordinate to the royal will in all political matters: The opposite is true; the event affirmed Parliament s superior role in constitutional questions. That Parliament would henceforth be replaced by a council of army generals and judges: No such replacement occurred; instead, Parliament remained central and became stronger. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse the Glorious Revolution with earlier or later conflicts like the English Civil War or the rule of Oliver Cromwell. This can lead to thinking in terms of military rule or total abolition of monarchy. Another mistake is to underestimate the importance of the Bill of Rights and the invitation to William and Mary, which clearly show that Parliament was taking charge. Keeping in mind that the Glorious Revolution is famous for parliamentary supremacy, not for military dictatorship or royal absolutism, helps you avoid these errors. Final Answer: The Glorious Revolution of 1688 demonstrated that Parliament had the right to remove a monarch who violated laws and to offer the crown to another ruler.

Question 11

In the context of modern Indian history, Goa finally attained freedom in 1961 from the rule of which colonial power?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question deals with the decolonisation of Goa, which is an important episode in post independence Indian history. While most of India gained freedom from British rule in 1947, some territories remained under other European powers. Goa was one of the most prominent of these, and its liberation in 1961 completed a significant part of the process of ending colonial rule on the Indian west coast. Given Data / Assumptions: - The territory in question is Goa on the western coast of India. - The time frame is post independence India, with Goa becoming free in 1961. - The options list different colonial powers: Portuguese, Romans, British, French and Dutch. - We assume awareness that not all parts of India were under British rule; some were under other European powers for centuries. Concept / Approach: Goa was a Portuguese colony from the early sixteenth century until 1961. Even after India became independent from Britain in 1947, Portugal refused to give up its enclaves like Goa, Daman and Diu. After years of diplomatic effort and growing Goan resistance, the Government of India launched Operation Vijay in December 1961 and integrated Goa into the Indian Union. Thus, when we speak of Goa getting freedom in 1961, it is freedom from Portuguese rule, not from British rule or any ancient empire. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that while most of India was under British control, Goa was historically controlled by Portugal. Step 2: Remember that India became independent from Britain in 1947, but Goa remained under Portuguese control for more than a decade afterwards. Step 3: Note that in 1961 the Indian government undertook military action, Operation Vijay, to end Portuguese rule in Goa, Daman and Diu. Step 4: Recognise that neither the Romans, the French nor the Dutch held Goa as a long term colony in the modern period in the way the Portuguese did. Step 5: Match this information with the options and select Portuguese colonial rule as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, you can think of the familiar phrase Indo Portuguese history which is commonly used for Goa. History books and school textbooks explicitly state that Goa was a Portuguese colony and that its liberation in 1961 ended that rule. British rule is associated with the rest of India, while French rule is associated with enclaves like Pondicherry. The Romans and Dutch did not control Goa in the modern period. This widely known association confirms the answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Ancient Roman rule from the Mediterranean empire: The Roman Empire did not control Goa; its influence did not extend that far east in a colonial sense. British rule as part of British India: Goa did not form part of British India; it remained under the Portuguese even when the British ruled much of the subcontinent. French colonial rule from Pondicherry: The French controlled territories like Pondicherry, Chandernagore and others, not Goa. Dutch colonial rule based in Batavia: The Dutch had trading posts and colonies in other parts of Asia, such as Indonesia, but not Goa as a long term possession. Common Pitfalls: A common pitfall is to assume that all of India, including Goa, was under British rule simply because British India was so large. Another error is to mix up European colonial powers and assume that any coastal colony could have been British or French. Remembering that Goa is specifically associated with Portuguese culture, architecture and history, and that its liberation in 1961 is described as ending Portuguese rule, helps you avoid these confusions. Final Answer: Goa got freedom in 1961 from Portuguese colonial rule.

Question 12

In the context of British land revenue policies in India, who among the following introduced the Permanent Settlement of Bengal in 1793?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question relates to the major land revenue systems introduced by the British in India. The Permanent Settlement of Bengal was one of the earliest and most important experiments which shaped agrarian relations in eastern India for decades. Knowing who introduced it and in which region is a standard requirement in modern Indian history and polity, because it influenced landlords, peasants and the colonial state alike. Given Data / Assumptions: - The scheme mentioned is the Permanent Settlement of Bengal. - The year given is 1793, during early British rule in India. - The options list several British officials and governors general: Lord Cornwallis, Robert Clive, John Adam, Lord Ripon and Lord Wellesley. - We assume familiarity with the idea that the Permanent Settlement fixed land revenue permanently with zamindars in Bengal, Bihar and Orissa. Concept / Approach: The Permanent Settlement was introduced under Lord Cornwallis, who served as the Governor General of Bengal. It aimed to create a loyal class of zamindars by recognising them as proprietors of land and fixing the revenue they had to pay to the Company. In practice, it brought both stability and hardship: landlords who paid revenue regularly were secure, but many peasants faced high rents and possible eviction. The key point for the exam is to correctly link Lord Cornwallis with this settlement, distinguishing him from earlier and later administrators like Clive and Wellesley. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the Permanent Settlement was a land revenue arrangement that fixed the land tax the Company would receive from zamindars. Step 2: Remember that this was done first in Bengal and adjoining regions in the early 1790s. Step 3: Identify Lord Cornwallis as the Governor General whose tenure is associated with both administrative reforms and this land revenue experiment. Step 4: Note that Robert Clive was an earlier figure who played a role in winning Bengal for the Company but did not implement the Permanent Settlement. Step 5: Recognise that John Adam, Lord Ripon and Lord Wellesley belong to different periods and are associated with other policies, not this specific settlement. Verification / Alternative check: Verification is easy if you remember a simple pairing often taught in schools: Cornwallis Permanent Settlement, Munro Ryotwari system, and Thomas Reed or others with Mahalwari experiments. Many exam guides repeat that the Permanent Settlement of 1793 in Bengal is tied to Lord Cornwallis and his code of regulations. Robert Clive is usually linked with the Battle of Plassey and the Dual Government, while Wellesley is known for the Subsidiary Alliance. This consistent association across texts confirms that Cornwallis is the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Robert Clive: Played a major role in establishing Company rule in Bengal but did not introduce the Permanent Settlement of 1793. John Adam: A minor official compared to a Governor General, not noted for launching such a major revenue system. Lord Ripon: Served later in the nineteenth century and is mainly remembered for local self government reforms, not for land settlements in Bengal in 1793. Lord Wellesley: Famous for expansionist policies and the Subsidiary Alliance system, not for the Permanent Settlement of Bengal. Common Pitfalls: A common pitfall is to confuse different British officials because their names often appear together in history chapters. Students may mix up Cornwallis and Wellesley, or Clive and Cornwallis, since all are associated with Bengal in some way. Keeping a clear mental map that ties Cornwallis to the Permanent Settlement, Clive to the conquest of Bengal, and Wellesley to political expansion helps avoid these errors. Final Answer: The Permanent Settlement of Bengal in 1793 was introduced by Lord Cornwallis.

Question 13

In the administration of the Delhi Sultanate, which Sultan is primarily credited with organising and developing the iqta system as a regular system of land assignments for military officers?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question concerns the administrative and revenue arrangements of the Delhi Sultanate, particularly the iqta system. An iqta was a land assignment given to military officers or nobles in lieu of a cash salary. The iqta holder collected revenue from the assigned area and maintained troops for the Sultan. While several rulers modified or used this system, one early Sultan is especially credited with organising it on a regular and systematic basis. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question is about the iqta system under the Delhi Sultanate. - It asks which Sultan is primarily credited with organising and developing this system. - The options include Iltutmish, Muhammad bin Tughluq, Alauddin Khalji, Balban and None of the above. - We assume basic knowledge that the iqta system existed in some form earlier but was given a more regular administrative structure by a particular ruler. Concept / Approach: Although the idea of giving land revenue assignments to officers was not entirely new, Sultan Iltutmish is widely regarded as the one who consolidated the iqta system in northern India. He distributed territories as iqta to his trusted nobles and clarified the obligations of iqta holders towards the central government. Later Sultans like Alauddin Khalji and Muhammad bin Tughluq made changes in revenue assessment and control but did not originate the basic structure. The correct approach is therefore to recognise Iltutmish as the key organiser of the iqta system in the early Sultanate period. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the Delhi Sultanate depended on a strong corps of Turkish nobles and military officers who needed to be paid and kept loyal. Step 2: Understand that Iltutmish, one of the early and capable Sultans, took steps to stabilise the kingdom and formalise revenue assignments to these officers. Step 3: Recognise that these assignments, called iqta, allowed officers to collect revenue from a specific area in exchange for maintaining troops and supporting the Sultan. Step 4: Note that later rulers, such as Alauddin Khalji and Muhammad bin Tughluq, introduced reforms in price control, revenue rates and administration but are not primarily remembered for originating the iqta system itself. Step 5: From the listed options, identify Iltutmish as the Sultan most commonly credited with organising the iqta system. Verification / Alternative check: A good way to verify is to recall standard textbook summaries of the Slave dynasty and the administrative contributions of Iltutmish. They usually state that he completed the work begun by Qutbuddin Aibak, consolidated the Sultanate and organised the iqta system. In contrast, when Alauddin Khalji is discussed, the focus is on market regulations and military reforms, and Muhammad bin Tughluq is linked with unusual experiments like token currency and shifting the capital. Balban is chiefly associated with strengthening the monarchy, not with iqta organisation. This pattern clearly supports Iltutmish as the answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Muhammad bin Tughluq: Known for various bold experiments like token currency and capital transfer, but not for organising the iqta system from the beginning. Alauddin Khalji: Famous for his market regulations, revenue reforms and military campaigns, but he built upon, rather than originated, the iqta system. Balban: A powerful ruler who emphasised royal authority and rigorous court discipline, but again not the primary organiser of the iqta system. None of the above: This is incorrect because Iltutmish, listed in option A, is in fact widely credited with systematising the iqta arrangements. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse which ruler introduced which institution because many Delhi Sultans carried out important reforms. It is easy to think of Alauddin Khalji or Muhammad bin Tughluq whenever administration or revenue is mentioned. To avoid this, it helps to match each ruler with one or two key contributions: Iltutmish with iqta organisation and consolidation, Alauddin with market control, and Muhammad bin Tughluq with monetary and capital experiments. Once these associations are clear, identifying Iltutmish as the organiser of the iqta system becomes straightforward. Final Answer: The Delhi Sultan who is primarily credited with organising and developing the iqta system was Iltutmish.

Question 14

In the context of the Indian national movement, who is generally credited with first addressing Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi by the honorific title “Mahatma”?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question focuses on a well known anecdote from the Indian freedom struggle concerning Mahatma Gandhi. The word Mahatma, meaning great soul, became permanently attached to Gandhis name, but it was not his birth name or a formal title. It was an honorific given out of respect and admiration. Knowing who first used this title helps you connect important personalities of the national movement and understand how Gandhis moral stature was perceived by his contemporaries. Given Data / Assumptions: - The person in question is Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, later known as Mahatma Gandhi. - The question asks who first addressed him as Mahatma. - The options list several major leaders and personalities: Rabindranath Tagore, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, Gopal Krishna Gokhale and Sarojini Naidu. - We assume familiarity with the fact that this title reflected Gandhis moral and spiritual influence rather than any constitutional post. Concept / Approach: According to widely accepted tradition and many history sources, Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel Prize winning poet and thinker, first referred to Gandhi as Mahatma around 1915. The title reflected Gandhis selfless service, simple lifestyle and moral leadership during the early stages of his public work in India. Other leaders deeply respected Gandhi, but the specific credit for first using this honorific is commonly given to Tagore. The correct approach is to match the famous association Tagore Mahatma Gandhi with the question. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Gandhi returned to India from South Africa in 1915 and began working closely with Indian leaders and the people. Step 2: Remember that Rabindranath Tagore, already a renowned literary figure, recognised Gandhis spiritual and moral leadership. Step 3: Many accounts state that Tagore was the first to publicly address Gandhi as Mahatma, a title that quickly became popular. Step 4: Consider the other options: Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, Gokhale and Sarojini Naidu, all of whom admired Gandhi but are not usually named as the first to use this term. Step 5: Based on this widely reported tradition, select Rabindranath Tagore as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Several biographies of Gandhi and Tagore mention that Tagore coined or at least popularised the title Mahatma for Gandhi. While some historians note that it is difficult to prove the absolute first use in every context, exam oriented general knowledge consistently attributes the first use to Tagore. In competitive exam keys and standard question banks, when this question appears, Rabindranath Tagore is given as the correct answer, providing a strong basis for your choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Bal Gangadhar Tilak: A senior nationalist leader who admired Gandhi but is not typically credited with coining the title Mahatma for him. Lala Lajpat Rai: Another important leader who worked with Gandhi, yet sources do not identify him as the first to use the title. Gopal Krishna Gokhale: Gandhis political mentor in many respects, but he died relatively early and is not recorded as the person who first publicly used Mahatma for Gandhi. Sarojini Naidu: She gave other famous descriptions of Gandhi, such as calling him the little father of the nation in playful affection, but not as the first to use Mahatma. Common Pitfalls: Because many leaders admired Gandhi deeply, students may guess any famous name from the period. Another confusion arises from the fact that people quickly adopted the title, making it seem like a spontaneous public label rather than one coined by a specific person. However, for exam purposes, Rabindranath Tagore is the accepted answer. Keeping the simple association Tagore first called Gandhi Mahatma will help you recall the fact correctly. Final Answer: Rabindranath Tagore is generally credited with first addressing Gandhi as Mahatma.

Question 15

In the history of organised peasant movements in India, in which year was the All India Kisan Sabha (All India Farmers’ Union) founded at the national level?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question relates to the organised peasant movement in modern India. As the freedom struggle grew, peasants and rural tenants began forming their own organisations to fight against high rents, unfair taxes and feudal oppression. The All India Kisan Sabha became a major platform for articulating peasant demands at the national level. Knowing the year of its foundation helps place peasant mobilisation in the larger timeline of the national movement. Given Data / Assumptions: - The organisation mentioned is the All India Kisan Sabha, also called the All India Farmers Union. - The question asks in which year it was founded at the national level. - The options list various decades: 1936, 1946, 1956, 1966 and 1920. - We assume awareness that the main phase of organised peasant movements gained strength in the 1930s. Concept / Approach: The All India Kisan Sabha was formally established in 1936 at Lucknow. It emerged at a time when economic depression, rising peasant distress and the nationalist struggle all converged. Leaders like Swami Sahajanand Saraswati, N.G. Ranga and others played important roles in its formation. The organisation sought to represent peasants interests, campaign for reduction of rent and land revenue, and link agrarian issues with the broader freedom movement. Therefore, among the given years, 1936 is the correct one. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the 1930s saw growing peasant unrest and the rise of agrarian organisations in India. Step 2: Remember that the All India Kisan Sabha was founded in 1936 at Lucknow to coordinate peasant struggles nationwide. Step 3: Note that 1946, 1956 and 1966 represent later phases, including the immediate post war and post independence periods. Step 4: Recognise that 1920 is too early for this united organisation, although local peasant movements existed. Step 5: Based on this timeline, choose 1936 as the year of foundation. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, think of the broader chronology: Non Cooperation Movement in the early 1920s, Civil Disobedience and the Great Depression in the early 1930s, and then a surge of peasant organisations in the mid 1930s. History texts on agrarian movements commonly state that the All India Kisan Sabha was formed in 1936 at Lucknow, with Swami Sahajanand Saraswati as its first president. This clear and frequently repeated fact confirms the correct year. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1946: By this time, the All India Kisan Sabha already existed; 1946 is closer to the period of provincial elections, naval mutiny and post war ferment. 1956: This is well into the post independence period and relates more to reorganisation of states and other issues, not to the founding of the Kisan Sabha. 1966: By this time, the Green Revolution was just beginning, long after the All India Kisan Sabha had been formed. 1920: Although peasant struggles existed, the unified All India Kisan Sabha was not yet established at this time. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes guess dates based on round numbers or general knowledge of the freedom struggle, picking years like 1946 or 1956 simply because they seem important. Another pitfall is to confuse the founding of individual peasant unions with the formation of a national level organisation. Keeping the key association Kisan Sabha 1936 in mind helps fix this fact more firmly and avoids misplacing it in the timeline. Final Answer: The All India Kisan Sabha was founded in 1936.

Question 16

In the Indian freedom struggle, who first coined the revolutionary slogan “Inquilab Zindabad” (Long Live the Revolution), which was later popularised by other leaders?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question deals with one of the most famous slogans of the Indian freedom struggle, Inquilab Zindabad, which translates as Long live the revolution. It became widely associated with revolutionary organisations and leaders such as Bhagat Singh. However, the person who first coined or introduced this slogan is often a separate figure. Knowing both the originator and the populariser of slogans is a frequent exam requirement in modern Indian history. Given Data / Assumptions: - The slogan is “Inquilab Zindabad”. - The question asks who first coined this slogan in the Indian context. - The options list Hasrat Mohani, Ashfaqulla Khan, Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad and Ram Prasad Bismil. - We assume awareness that the slogan became famous during the revolutionary activities of the 1920s and 1930s. Concept / Approach: While Bhagat Singh and his comrades made the slogan “Inquilab Zindabad” widely famous, historical accounts indicate that it was first coined by Maulana Hasrat Mohani, a nationalist and poet. He used this slogan in the early 1920s to call for complete independence and revolutionary change. Later, Bhagat Singh adopted it and popularised it through dramatic actions, such as throwing harmless bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly and shouting the slogan. The correct approach is to distinguish between the originator (Hasrat Mohani) and the later popularisers (Bhagat Singh and others). Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that “Inquilab Zindabad” is a Hindi-Urdu slogan meaning “Long live the revolution”. Step 2: Recall that Maulana Hasrat Mohani was a prominent freedom fighter, poet and early advocate of complete independence, who used radical language before many others. Step 3: Understand that he is credited with coining this slogan during the early 1920s in political meetings and writings. Step 4: Remember that Bhagat Singh later adopted this slogan and shouted it during revolutionary actions, making it widely known to the public. Step 5: Therefore, among the options, identify Hasrat Mohani as the first to coin the slogan, even though others greatly popularised it. Verification / Alternative check: An alternative check is to recall how exam books and biographies phrase this fact. They often mention that Maulana Hasrat Mohani coined “Inquilab Zindabad” and that Bhagat Singh made it a household slogan. When multiple choice questions specifically ask who coined the slogan, the expected answer is Hasrat Mohani. Only when the question asks who popularised the slogan does Bhagat Singh usually appear as the correct choice. This consistent pattern across question banks confirms that option A is correct here. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Ashfaqulla Khan: A brave revolutionary involved in the Kakori conspiracy case, but not credited with coining this particular slogan. Bhagat Singh: He made “Inquilab Zindabad” famous by using it in dramatic protests, but he was not the first to coin it. Chandrashekhar Azad: A leading revolutionary who also used radical slogans, but he is not generally recorded as the originator of this particular phrase. Ram Prasad Bismil: Another important revolutionary poet and leader of the Kakori conspiracy, but he is known for different poems and slogans, not for coining “Inquilab Zindabad”. Common Pitfalls: Because Bhagat Singh is so strongly associated with “Inquilab Zindabad”, many students automatically choose his name when they see the slogan. This is an understandable but incorrect shortcut. The careful reader will note whether the question asks who coined or who popularised the slogan. In this question, the key word is coined. Remembering this distinction helps you avoid the trap and confidently select Hasrat Mohani as the right answer. Final Answer: The slogan “Inquilab Zindabad” was first coined by Hasrat Mohani, and later popularised by Bhagat Singh and other revolutionaries.

Question 17

In ancient Indian art history, the famous paintings in the Ajanta caves mainly depict scenes from which group of Buddhist stories?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question belongs to the study of ancient Indian art and culture. The Ajanta caves in Maharashtra are world famous for their rock cut architecture and especially for their murals and paintings. These paintings are among the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian painting. To answer the question correctly, you need to know what religious or literary themes these paintings mainly illustrate. Given Data / Assumptions: - The site mentioned is the Ajanta caves in Maharashtra, India. - The question asks from which group of stories the painted scenes mostly come. - The options include Jataka stories, the Ramayana, the Upanishads, the Mahabharata and Puranic legends. - We assume familiarity with the fact that Ajanta is strongly associated with Buddhism. Concept / Approach: Ajanta is a Buddhist site containing monastic halls and prayer halls with stupas. The paintings illustrate episodes from the life of the historical Buddha as well as stories about his previous births. These earlier lives are narrated in the Jatakas, a large body of Buddhist literature. Many Ajanta murals show the Buddha-to-be in animal or human forms practising virtues such as generosity, compassion and sacrifice. Thus, the correct approach is to recognise that Ajanta paintings are primarily linked with Jataka stories rather than with Hindu epics like the Ramayana or Mahabharata. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Ajanta is a Buddhist cave complex dating roughly from the 2nd century BCE to about the 6th century CE. Step 2: Understand that its paintings decorate the walls, ceilings and pillars of caves used by Buddhist monks for worship and residence. Step 3: Remember that many of these murals represent Jataka tales, which describe the earlier births of the Buddha in different forms. Step 4: Recognise that while the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Upanishads and Puranas are important Hindu texts, they are not the primary source material for Ajanta paintings. Step 5: Select the option that explicitly mentions Jataka stories about the previous births of the Buddha. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this by recalling common illustrations of Ajanta in textbooks and documentaries, which often show scenes such as the compassionate prince rescuing animals or the Bodhisattva sacrificing himself for others. These are typical Jataka story motifs. Descriptions of Ajanta in culture texts almost always mention Buddhist themes and Jataka tales, not episodes from the Ramayana or Mahabharata. This consistency confirms that the correct answer refers to Jataka stories. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Episodes from the Ramayana: These epic stories are primarily depicted at some other sites, but Ajanta is mainly Buddhist in theme. Philosophical dialogues from the Upanishads: The Upanishads are philosophical texts rather than narrative story collections suitable for large narrative paintings. War scenes from the Mahabharata: While some art elsewhere may depict Mahabharata scenes, the Ajanta murals focus on Buddhist narratives. Legends of various Puranas: Puranic myths are more closely linked with later Hindu temple art, not with the core Buddhist murals of Ajanta. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to assume that any ancient Indian art must depict Hindu epics like the Ramayana or Mahabharata because they are very famous. Another pitfall is not clearly associating Ajanta with Buddhism and confusing it with other cave sites. A simple memory aid is Ajanta equals Buddhist Jataka stories and Ellora equals a mix of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monuments. This association helps you avoid confusion and choose the correct answer quickly. Final Answer: The paintings at Ajanta mainly depict scenes from the Jataka stories about the previous births of the Buddha.

Question 18

In Mughal history, the autobiographical work “Baburnama” (Tuzuk-i-Baburi) written by Emperor Babur was originally composed in which language?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question comes from the cultural history of the Mughal Empire. Baburnama, also known as Tuzuk-i-Baburi, is the autobiography of Zahir-ud-din Muhammad Babur, the founder of the Mughal dynasty in India. It is an important source of information on his life, campaigns and observations about the lands he visited. The question asks in which language Babur originally wrote this work, which connects to his Central Asian background. Given Data / Assumptions: - The book in question is Baburnama or Tuzuk-i-Baburi. - It is an autobiographical account written by Babur himself. - The options list several languages: Chagatai Turkish, Classical Persian, Arabic, Sanskrit and Ottoman Turkish. - We assume awareness that Babur came from a Central Asian Turkic background and later ruled in India. Concept / Approach: Babur was a Timurid prince from Central Asia, and his mother tongue was a Turkic language known as Chagatai Turkish. He composed his memoirs in this language. Over time, Baburnama was translated into Persian, which later became the main language of administration and high culture in the Mughal court. However, the original composition was not in Persian but in Chagatai Turkish. The correct approach is therefore to connect Baburs Central Asian roots with the language he used in his personal writings. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Babur was born in the Fergana region of Central Asia and descended from Timur on one side and Genghis Khan on the other. Step 2: Understand that his native language was a Turkic dialect called Chagatai, widely used in the Timurid courts of Central Asia. Step 3: Remember that Baburnama is valued partly because it is a rare example of a royal autobiography written in a Turkic language rather than in Persian. Step 4: Note that while later Mughal emperors like Akbar and Jahangir often used Persian for chronicles, Babur s original text was in Chagatai Turkish. Step 5: Compare the options and select Chagatai Turkish (a Turkic language of Central Asia) as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, think of standard cultural history statements: they usually say that Babur wrote his autobiography in Chagatai Turkish and that it was later translated into Persian. Persian became widespread in the Mughal court later, but Babur s personal style remained tied to his Central Asian heritage. No major source claims that he wrote Baburnama originally in Arabic, Sanskrit or Ottoman Turkish. This consistency in the literature confirms that Chagatai Turkish is the correct language. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Classical Persian: While later Mughal chronicles were often written in Persian and Baburnama was translated into Persian, Babur s original text was not in this language. Standard Arabic: Arabic was the liturgical language of Islam but not the main spoken or literary language of Babur s royal court. Sanskrit: This was an ancient learned language of India, used for Hindu religious and philosophical texts, not for Babur s Central Asian autobiography. Ottoman Turkish: This was the language of the Ottoman Empire based in modern-day Turkey, not Babur s Timurid court in Central Asia. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to assume that all Mughal literature must have been written in Persian, since it later became the official language of the court. Another pitfall is to confuse different Turkic languages and guess Ottoman Turkish simply because it is a well known term. Remembering Babur s Central Asian origin and the specific phrase Chagatai Turkish, often mentioned in culture chapters, helps you confidently pick the right option. Final Answer: Baburnama was originally written by Babur in Chagatai Turkish (a Turkic language of Central Asia).

Question 19

In Mughal historiography, the biographical work “Humayun Nama” was written by which member of Humayun’s family?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question is about important sources for studying Mughal history. “Humayun Nama” is a biographical work that gives insight into the life of Emperor Humayun, the second Mughal ruler. Unlike many royal chronicles written by court historians, this work was authored by a woman of the royal family, making it unique and valuable. The question asks you to identify this author. Given Data / Assumptions: - The book mentioned is “Humayun Nama”. - It is a biography related to the life of the Mughal emperor Humayun. - The options list Gulbadan Begum, Abbas Sarwani, Abul Fazl, Humayun himself and Badauni. - We assume familiarity with the names of major Mughal chroniclers and family members. Concept / Approach: “Humayun Nama” was written by Gulbadan Begum, the daughter of Babur and half sister of Humayun. At the request of Emperor Akbar, she wrote about the life of her brother Humayun and the experiences of the royal family. This gives the work a distinctive personal tone compared to formal court histories. Other writers listed in the options, such as Abul Fazl and Badauni, wrote different major works like the “Akbarnama” and critical histories, and Abbas Sarwani is known for the “Tabaqat-i-Akbari” version of the Sur dynasty history. The correct approach is to connect the female royal author with this specific biographical text. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Gulbadan Begum was a Mughal princess, daughter of Babur and half sister of Humayun. Step 2: Remember that Akbar encouraged members of the older generation to record their memories, and Gulbadan Begum responded by writing “Humayun Nama”. Step 3: Understand that this text provides a more intimate and family based account of Humayun s life and the early Mughal court. Step 4: Note that Abul Fazl wrote the “Akbarnama” and “Ain-i-Akbari”, and Badauni wrote a more critical history of Akbar s reign, but neither authored “Humayun Nama”. Step 5: Based on this information, select Gulbadan Begum as the correct author. Verification / Alternative check: Verification is straightforward if you remember that “Humayun Nama” is often cited as an example of a historical work written by a woman in Mughal India. Textbooks and exam guides explicitly state that Gulbadan Begum, Babur s daughter, wrote this biography at Akbar s request. They seldom, if ever, attribute this work to other chroniclers like Abul Fazl. This unanimity across sources confirms that Gulbadan Begum is the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Abbas Sarwani: Known for information about Sher Shah Suri and the Sur dynasty, not for writing “Humayun Nama”. Abul Fazl: The great court historian of Akbar, famous for “Akbarnama” and “Ain-i-Akbari”, not for “Humayun Nama”. Humayun himself: Although some rulers wrote memoirs, “Humayun Nama” is not attributed to Humayun but to his sister Gulbadan Begum. Badauni: A chronicler who wrote critically about Akbar s policies, but he did not write this particular biographical work. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes assume that any important Mughal text must have been written by Abul Fazl because he is such a famous historian. Another pitfall is to forget the role of royal women in preserving historical memory and therefore overlook Gulbadan Begum. Keeping a small mental list of key works—Baburnama by Babur, Humayun Nama by Gulbadan Begum, Akbarnama by Abul Fazl—helps avoid confusion and makes the correct answer easy to recall. Final Answer: “Humayun Nama” was written by Gulbadan Begum.

Question 20

In the chronology of the Indian national movement, during which period did the Non-Cooperation Movement under Mahatma Gandhi reach its peak and gain maximum momentum?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question refers to one of the major mass movements in the Indian struggle for independence, the Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. Launched after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and the Khilafat issue, it marked the first large-scale nationwide participation of students, peasants, workers and the middle class. To place the movement correctly in time, it is important to know when it gathered the greatest strength and momentum. Given Data / Assumptions: - The movement under discussion is the Non-Cooperation Movement. - The question asks during which period it gained maximum momentum. - The options list several year ranges: 1910–1912, 1915–1917, 1921–1922, 1930–1932 and 1942–1944. - We assume basic knowledge that the movement was announced around 1920 and withdrawn in early 1922 after the Chauri Chaura incident. Concept / Approach: The Non-Cooperation Movement formally began in 1920, but its peak phase of mass participation and intensity was during 1921 and early 1922. During this period, students left government schools, lawyers boycotted courts, foreign cloth was burned and many Indians surrendered titles and honours. The movement was called off in February 1922 after the violent incident at Chauri Chaura, which means that its most energetic phase was roughly 1921–1922. The other year ranges in the options correspond to different phases of the freedom struggle, such as the Civil Disobedience Movement or the Quit India Movement, not the height of Non-Cooperation. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Gandhi gave the call for Non-Cooperation in 1920, and the Congress adopted it as a programme against British rule. Step 2: Note that the movement quickly gathered strength and reached its peak in the following year, 1921, continuing into early 1922. Step 3: Remember that the Chauri Chaura incident in February 1922, in which a violent clash led to the burning of a police station, caused Gandhi to suspend the movement. Step 4: Recognise that 1930–1932 is associated with the Civil Disobedience Movement and Dandi March, not with Non-Cooperation. Step 5: Identify 1921–1922 as the period during which the Non-Cooperation Movement gained maximum momentum and select this option. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, think of the standard timeline of Gandhian movements: Non-Cooperation (1920–22), Civil Disobedience (1930–34) and Quit India (1942). Within the 1920–22 span, 1921–22 is always described as the peak period of Non-Cooperation when boycott and hartals were most intense. History texts specifically mention that the movement was at its height when it was suddenly withdrawn in early 1922. This confirms that 1921–1922 is the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1910–1912: This is before Gandhi took a central role in the all-India movement, and Non-Cooperation had not yet begun. 1915–1917: Gandhi had just returned to India in 1915 and was involved in local struggles like Champaran and Kheda, not yet in a nationwide Non-Cooperation Movement. 1930–1932: This period corresponds to the Civil Disobedience Movement, including the Salt March, not Non-Cooperation. 1942–1944: These years are associated with the Quit India Movement and World War II, long after Non-Cooperation ended. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse different Gandhian movements because they all involved non-violent resistance and mass participation. As a result, they may select 1930–1932 or 1942–1944, thinking of general agitation against British rule. A simple memory aid is to fix three key dates: Non-Cooperation peaks around 1921–22, Civil Disobedience around 1930–31 and Quit India in 1942. Keeping this sequence clear in your mind helps avoid mixing the movements and leads you to the correct option. Final Answer: The Non-Cooperation Movement gained its maximum momentum during 1921–1922.

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