1
A survey in a village revealed that women spent an average of 7.5 hours daily on household chores and childcare, while men spent only 2.5 hours on similar tasks. However, men’s work, primarily in fields and shops, was considered income-generating and therefore more valued. This disparity in perceived value and time allocation highlights a common societal issue.(a) Identify the type of social division this scenario primarily relates to. [1 mark](b) Explain how this division is based on social expectations and stereotypes rather than biology. [2 marks](c) Discuss the impact of this division on women’s participation in public life and politics, using evidence from the NCERT text. 2marks
2
In a recent election in a particular state, a political party decided to field candidates in all constituencies. They noticed that in some constituencies, a particular caste group formed a significant portion of the electorate. The party strategized by fielding candidates from that caste in those specific constituencies, aiming to consolidate votes. Simultaneously, they also appealed to the broader sentiments of other castes to ensure a majority.(a) What political strategy is being employed by the party in relation to caste? [1 mark](b) Explain why a single caste group usually cannot form a 'vote bank' for a party in India, according to the text. [2 marks](c) Discuss how this scenario demonstrates that caste is not the only factor determining election results. 2marks
3
Assertion (A): Gandhiji believed that religion should guide politics.Reason (R): He meant that moral values derived from all religions should inform political decisions.(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.(c) A is true but R is false.(d) A is false but R is true. 1mark
4
A group of women activists in a city have been campaigning for better safety measures and stricter laws against sexual harassment. They argue that despite legal provisions, the practical implementation and enforcement are weak, and societal attitudes towards women's safety have not changed significantly. They are planning to raise this issue during an upcoming election campaign by demanding that political parties address their concerns.(a) Which social division are these activists primarily concerned with? [1 mark](b) How do their demands reflect a political expression of a social division? [2 marks](c) What do you understand by 'feminist movements' in the context of these activists' concerns? 2marks
5
Read the following passage: "The Constitution of India provides to all individuals and communities freedom to profess, practice and propagate any religion, or not to follow any. The Constitution also prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion. However, it also allows the state to intervene in religious matters to ensure equality within religious communities, for instance, by banning untouchability."(a) Which principle of governance is highlighted in this passage? [1 mark](b) Explain how these provisions reflect India's approach to managing religious diversity. [2 marks](c) Discuss one potential challenge in maintaining this balance between religious freedom and state intervention. 2marks
6
A national survey on time utilization in households revealed that women spend significantly more time on unpaid household work and childcare than men. This work, though essential, is often not recognized as 'work' because it does not generate direct income. Men, on the other hand, are more likely to engage in income-generating activities, which are visible and valued.(a) What term is used in the textbook to describe this unequal division of labour within families? [1 mark](b) Explain the consequence of this division on women's representation in the public sphere. [2 marks](c) Suggest two policy measures that could help to address this imbalance and increase the value of women's work. 2marks
7
Consider the following situation: In a particular constituency, a political party is deciding on its candidate for the upcoming elections. They find that voters from three different castes – A, B, and C – are significant. Caste A is the largest group, but Caste B and Caste C together form a larger block. The party decides to field a candidate from Caste B, hoping to secure the votes of Caste B and a portion of Caste C, while also trying to win back some disgruntled voters from Caste A.(a) What does this scenario suggest about the relationship between caste and electoral politics in India? [1 mark](b) Explain why it is often said that "it is the caste that gets politicised" rather than "politics that gets caste-ridden." [2 marks](c) Discuss how factors other than caste can influence election outcomes in such a constituency. 2marks
8
Assertion (A): Communal politics is based on the belief that religion is the principal basis of social community.Reason (R): It often leads to the belief that people belonging to different religions cannot live as equal citizens within one nation.(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.(c) A is true but R is false.(d) A is false but R is true. 1mark
9
A recent study highlighted that although the literacy rate for women has increased significantly, their participation in higher education and highly paid jobs remains disproportionately low compared to men. The study also noted that in many families, parents prioritize spending on boys' education over girls' due to societal norms.(a) Identify the social division discussed here. [1 mark](b) Explain how this scenario illustrates gender-based discrimination. [2 marks](c) Suggest two ways in which society can encourage greater participation of girls in higher education and professional careers. 2marks
10
Read the following statement: "The Census of India counts Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). While SCs were previously regarded as 'outcastes' and subjected to exclusion and untouchability, STs are communities that led a secluded life, often in forests and hills."(a) What historical disadvantage is highlighted for Scheduled Castes? [1 mark](b) How does the Census categorisation reflect an attempt to address past injustices? [2 marks](c) Discuss the ongoing relevance of these categories in contemporary Indian politics and society. 2marks
11
A country's parliament has only 10% women members, despite women constituting 50% of the population. Women's organizations are demanding a quota system to increase their representation.(a) What is the primary issue raised by the women's organizations? [1 mark](b) Explain why increased representation of women in legislative bodies is considered important for democracy. [2 marks](c) Describe how India has attempted to address this issue in its local government bodies. 2marks
12
A political party consistently appeals to the religious sentiments of a particular religious minority group, promising them special benefits and protection if elected. They often use religious symbols and rhetoric in their campaign, portraying other religious groups as a threat.(a) Identify the type of politics being practiced here. [1 mark](b) Explain the potential dangers of such politics for a diverse society like India. [2 marks](c) How does the concept of a 'secular state' counter this form of politics? 2marks
13
A village council in rural India has recently implemented a system where one-third of the seats are reserved for women. This has led to an increase in the number of women actively participating in local governance, proposing development projects, and addressing community issues.(a) What constitutional provision is being illustrated here? [1 mark](b) Discuss the positive impact of such reservation on women's role in public life. [2 marks](c) How does this initiative relate to the broader issue of gender division in politics? 2marks
14
Assertion (A): Patriarchy is a system that values men more and gives them power over women.Reason (R): The division of labour in most families, where women handle housework and men work outside, is a manifestation of patriarchy.(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.(c) A is true but R is false.(d) A is false but R is true. 1mark
15
A group of students from different religious backgrounds are working together on a school project. They have diverse opinions on the project's approach, but they listen to each other respectfully and try to find common ground. They believe that their shared goal of completing the project successfully is more important than their individual religious identities.(a) What principle are these students demonstrating in their interaction? [1 mark](b) How does this scenario contrast with communal politics? [2 marks](c) Explain how this attitude contributes to the idea of a secular nation. 2marks
16
Consider the following data about daily time usage:
| Activity | Men (hours:minutes) | Women (hours:minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| Income generating work | 6:00 | 2:40 |
| Household and related work | 0:30 | 5:00 |
| (a) What does this data suggest about the division of labour in households? [1 mark] | ||
| (b) Explain why the work done by women in this table is often undervalued. [2 marks] | ||
| (c) How can political action or policy help in valuing women's household work more appropriately? [2 marks] |
17
In India, a significant number of parents opt for sex-selective abortions, leading to a declining child sex ratio in many states. This practice is driven by a preference for sons and a perceived lower value attached to female children.(a) Identify the social division and the underlying bias evident in this practice. [1 mark](b) Explain the long-term consequences of a skewed child sex ratio on society. [2 marks](c) Suggest measures that could be implemented to challenge son preference and promote the value of the girl child. 2marks
18
Assertion (A): Caste inequalities have been outlawed by the Indian Constitution.Reason (R): Despite constitutional provisions, the effects of historical advantages and disadvantages based on caste continue to be felt today, impacting economic status and social mobility.(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.(c) A is true but R is false.(d) A is false but R is true. 1mark
19
A political observer notes that in many Indian constituencies, winning candidates often belong to dominant caste groups, and parties tend to nominate candidates from these groups to attract votes. However, the observer also points out that in recent elections, voters have shown strong loyalty to political parties and have voted based on the performance of the government and popularity of leaders, sometimes even against their caste preferences.(a) What two contrasting trends in Indian electoral politics related to caste are described here? [2 marks](b) Explain why, despite the influence of caste, other factors can be decisive in elections. [2 marks](c) How does the observer's comment on voter loyalty to parties challenge the idea of caste as the sole determinant of political preference? 1mark
20
A country is debating a new law that would grant specific rights and protections to religious minorities, including the right to establish and administer their own educational institutions. Some argue that this is necessary to protect minority cultures, while others fear it might lead to divisions and undermine national unity.(a) What fundamental right related to religion is being discussed? [1 mark](b) How can the approach of a secular state ensure that such provisions do not lead to communalism? [2 marks](c) Discuss the argument that accommodating religious diversity can, in fact, strengthen national unity. 2marks
Answers
1
(a) Gender division.(b) The scenario illustrates that the division of labour (men working outside, women managing household chores) is based on societal expectations and stereotypes about gender roles, not biological limitations. Men are capable of doing housework but choose not to, while women engage in paid work but their domestic labour remains unrecognized.(c) This division of labour, where women's work is undervalued and invisible, results in their minimal participation in public life and politics. Societal norms often confine women to the domestic sphere, limiting their time, opportunities, and perceived right to engage in political activities. As the NCERT text states, this societal perception contributes to women lagging behind men in public life.
2
(a) The party is employing a strategy of caste-based political mobilisation and candidate selection based on the caste composition of the electorate.(b) A single caste group usually cannot form a 'vote bank' because no parliamentary constituency has a clear majority of one single caste. Every candidate and party needs to win the confidence of multiple castes and communities. Furthermore, not all voters of a particular caste vote for the same party; their choices can be influenced by economic status, party loyalty, and leader popularity.(c) This scenario shows that while parties consider caste composition, they also appeal to broader sentiments and attempt to consolidate support from multiple groups (Caste B and C). Voters also exhibit strong attachment to political parties and can vote based on factors like government performance and leader popularity, demonstrating that caste alone does not determine election results.
3
(a) (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
4
(a) Gender division.(b) The activists are raising issues related to women's safety and demanding action from political parties, which is a political expression of the social division based on gender. They are using the political domain to highlight and seek solutions for problems faced by women due to societal attitudes and inadequate enforcement of laws.(c) Feminist movements are collective efforts advocating for equal rights and opportunities for women and men. In this context, the activists' campaign for better safety measures and stricter laws is a part of a feminist movement aiming to achieve equality and justice for women in society.
5
(a) The principle of secularism.(b) These provisions reflect India's secular nature by ensuring freedom of religion for all, prohibiting religious discrimination, and not favouring any particular religion. The allowance for state intervention to ensure equality within religious communities (like banning untouchability) demonstrates a balanced approach to managing religious diversity.(c) A potential challenge is balancing the freedom to practice religion with the state's role in ensuring equality. For instance, issues arise when certain religious practices are seen as discriminatory or harmful to individuals within that community, requiring state intervention that might be perceived by some as infringing upon religious freedom.
6
(a) Sexual division of labour.(b) When women's work is primarily confined to the domestic sphere and is unpaid and invisible, it limits their time, resources, and opportunities to participate in public life, including politics. This leads to their underrepresentation in political and other public spheres.(c) Two policy measures could be:i. Providing accessible and affordable childcare facilities to reduce the burden of childcare on women.ii. Implementing policies that promote equal sharing of household responsibilities between men and women, perhaps through public awareness campaigns or incentives.
7
(a) This scenario suggests that caste plays a significant role in electoral politics, with parties often choosing candidates based on the caste composition of the electorate to garner support.(b) "It is the caste that gets politicised" means that caste identities, which might otherwise be less prominent in everyday life, are brought into the political arena and mobilised by political actors for electoral gains. Conversely, "politics gets caste-ridden" implies that political systems become dominated by caste considerations, often leading to negative consequences. The given scenario shows caste being used for political mobilisation.(c) Other factors that can influence election outcomes include:i. Voter loyalty to established political parties.ii. The popularity of leaders and their perceived performance.iii. Voters' assessment of the government's work and policies.iv. Economic conditions and development issues.
8
(a) (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
9
(a) Gender division.(b) This scenario illustrates gender-based discrimination as parents prioritize boys' education over girls' due to societal norms that assign lower value to female children. This leads to fewer opportunities for girls in higher education and career advancement, perpetuating inequality.(c) Two ways to encourage greater participation of girls:i. Implement scholarships and financial aid specifically for girl students pursuing higher education.ii. Conduct public awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of educating girls and challenging traditional gender roles.
10
(a) The historical disadvantage highlighted for Scheduled Castes is their exclusion and subjection to untouchability within the Hindu social order.(b) The Census categorisation, by identifying SCs and STs as distinct groups, acknowledges their historical marginalisation and serves as a basis for implementing affirmative action policies (like reservations) aimed at addressing these past injustices and ensuring their inclusion.(c) These categories remain relevant as they form the basis for reservations in education, employment, and political representation, aiming to uplift these historically disadvantaged communities and ensure social justice. They also continue to be a focal point for political mobilisation and advocacy by these communities.
11
(a) The primary issue raised is the underrepresentation of women in legislative bodies and the need to increase their participation in political decision-making.(b) Increased representation of women is considered important because it brings diverse perspectives to policy-making, ensures that women's concerns and issues are adequately addressed, and promotes a more inclusive and equitable democracy.(c) India has addressed this issue in its local government bodies (Panchayati Raj) by reserving one-third of seats for women, leading to a significant increase in the number of elected women representatives at the grassroots level.
12
(a) Communal politics.(b) Communal politics is dangerous because it pits one religious community against another, often fostering prejudice, hatred, and mistrust. In its extreme form, it can lead to communal violence, riots, and a belief that different religious groups cannot coexist peacefully as equal citizens within a nation.(c) A secular state counters communal politics by treating all religions equally, ensuring freedom of religion for all citizens, and refraining from establishing any official religion. This fosters an environment where different religious communities can coexist as equals, without one group dominating others.
13
(a) The constitutional provision being illustrated is the reservation for women in local government bodies (Panchayati Raj institutions) as mandated by amendments to the Constitution.(b) The positive impact includes a significant increase in women's participation in local governance, greater attention to issues affecting women and children, and empowerment of women at the grassroots level. This enhanced participation strengthens democracy and promotes more inclusive development.(c) This initiative directly addresses the gender division in politics by creating formal space for women in political decision-making, thereby challenging the historical male dominance in public life and encouraging greater political engagement by women.
14
(a) (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
15
(a) These students are demonstrating the principles of mutual respect, tolerance, and the ability to find common ground despite differences, which are key aspects of secularism.(b) This scenario contrasts with communal politics, which is based on the belief that followers of a particular religion form a single community with identical interests and often pits one religious group against another. The students, however, respect individual differences and focus on shared goals.(c) This attitude contributes to the idea of a secular nation by showing that people from different religious backgrounds can coexist peacefully, interact respectfully, and work together towards common objectives, reinforcing the idea that religious identity is not the sole basis for social or political association.
16
(a) The data suggests a significant unequal division of labour in households, with women spending considerably more time on unpaid household and related work compared to men.(b) Women's household work is often undervalued because it is unpaid and invisible, meaning it does not generate direct income and is not counted in economic productivity measures. Societal norms also tend to view it as a natural extension of women's roles rather than as essential labour.(c) Political action or policy can help by:i. Recognizing and valuing household work through social security schemes or public recognition.ii. Implementing policies that promote shared domestic responsibilities between men and women.
17
(a) The social division is gender. The underlying bias is the preference for sons and the devaluation of girl children.(b) Long-term consequences of a skewed child sex ratio include social imbalances, increased potential for crimes against women, difficulties in finding marriage partners for men, and a reinforcement of the notion that women are less valued.(c) Measures to challenge son preference and promote the value of the girl child:i. Strict enforcement of laws against sex-selective abortion and stricter penalties.ii. Public campaigns promoting the equal worth of daughters and sons, highlighting the contributions of women to society.
18
(a) (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
19
(a) The two contrasting trends are:i. Caste-based political mobilisation and candidate selection, where dominant caste groups influence elections and parties nominate candidates from these groups.ii. Increasing voter loyalty to political parties and voting based on factors like government performance and leader popularity, which can sometimes override caste preferences.(b) Other factors like strong attachment to political parties, voters' assessment of government performance, the popularity of leaders, and differing economic interests within the same caste can be decisive because they offer voters alternative reasons to support a candidate or party, moving beyond just caste identity.(c) The observer's comment challenges the idea of caste as the sole determinant by highlighting that voters have strong attachments to political parties, which can be stronger than caste ties, and that factors like performance and leadership popularity are often decisive, indicating a more complex voting behaviour.
20
(a) The fundamental right being discussed is the freedom to practice and propagate religion, and the right of religious communities to establish and administer their own educational institutions, as provided under Article 25 and Article 29/30 of the Constitution.(b) A secular state can ensure that such provisions do not lead to communalism by:i. Treating all religions equally and not favouring any one religion.ii. Ensuring that minority rights do not infringe upon the rights of others or the secular fabric of the nation.iii. Regulating practices to ensure equality within religious communities and preventing discrimination.(c) Accommodating religious diversity can strengthen national unity by fostering an inclusive society where all communities feel respected and secure. When minority rights are protected and their cultural identities are valued within a framework of equal citizenship, it reduces alienation and promotes a sense of belonging, thereby strengthening the overall national fabric.
