10TH Social Science

NIOS CLASS 1

Written by Manish Verma

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INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL SCIENCE

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

0 Introduction to Self Awareness, Critical Thinking, Visiting Museum, Learning

Social Science Creative Thinking, Problem Solving and Understanding History
by seeing visuals e.g.,
Paintings, Sculpture, and
Architectural remains etc.

Meaning

Social Science aims to understand all aspects of society as well as finding solutions to deal with social
problems. It helps us to acquire a capacity to make connections between various subjects. Some
important branches of Social Science are Economics, History, Archaeology, Geography, Political
Science and Sociology.

Major Branches of Social Science

z History relates the story of cooperative actions of a large number of men and women in their quest
for a better life.
z Archaeology is the study of ancient times with aspect to society and culture. Trace of events of past
can be found in material remains i.e. artifacts, burials, ruined buildings, monuments, inscription
pillars, metal plates, coins, seals, tools, pottery, toys, pictures etc.
z Geography is the study of earth’s landscapes, people, places and environment. It is unique in
bridging the social sciences with natural sciences.
z Political Science is concerned with the theory and practice of politics and analysis of political
systems and political behaviour. Herein relationship between the political events and the conditions
is studied.
z Sociology is the study of human behaviour in social context, it focuses on the study of human groups,
so as to understand the structure of a society and how it works.
z Economics is the scientific study of the ways in which humans make choices about production,
consumption and wealth. It is the Social Science of studying a balance between needs and available
resources.
4 :: Learner Guide

Evolution of Human Beings Social Science and Problems of

Present Day Societies
z Human beings emerged about two million
years ago. Though humans have progressed from mere
z They resembled apes, who lived in caves or on hunters to space age, problems still exist which
tree tops. are:
z Invention of writing was a landmark z Poverty and hunger
z Prehistory is the period for which no written z Unequal distribution of wealth
records are available z Unemployment and under employment
z History refers to the period of history for z Parallel economy, tax evasion and black money
which written records are available.
z Corruption in public life
Paleolithic (5,00,000 BC to z Pollution and environmental degradation
100000 BC) food gatherers
z Lack of nationalism and love for the country
Stone age: Mesolithic (10,000 BC to 8000 z Gender discrimination
BC) use of fire discovered
z Violence, terrorism, naxalism
Neolithic (8,000 BC to 4000 z Criticism, regionalism, casteism, commu-
BC) food producers nalism as hurdles to National Integration.

Different stages of human

development
Evaluate Yourself
z Hunting stage: As food gatherers, (earliest
stage) Q. Discuss different stages of human
z Village life (Rural): Advent of agriculture and development.
settled life Q. List any five problems of present day societies.
z Town life (urban): As food producers, discovery Q. Explain important branches of Social Science.
of metals led to specialisation of crafts
z City life: Civilisation and culture progressed,
Arts like painting, music, sculpture and
architecture developed
ANCIENT WORLD

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

1 Ancient World Critical Thinking, Creative Thinking Understanding Harappan

Problem Solving culture by visiting Museums,
showing Harappan artifacts
and visiting Harappan sites
like Rakhigarhi, Kalibanga etc.

Meaning

Discovery of metal led to human civilisation becoming highly evolved. Copper was the first metal used
by human beings; the cultures based on use of both copper and stone are called Chalcolithic Cultures.
An alloy of copper and tin i.e. bronze which replaced stone, wood and bones to some extent for making
weapons and implements. Town based civilization came up for first time in Mesopotamia, Egypt, India
and China.

Different Chalcolithic Cultures of the World

S.No. Name of → Mesopotamia Egypt China India
civilization

Characteristic
feature ↓

1. In which Between Tigris Nile Hwang Ho Indus

river valley and Euphrates
2. Modern city Iraq Egypt North China Harappa (West Punjab)
Sindh, Gujarat,
Rajasthan
3. Crafts Smiths, Potters Stone cutters Bronze Tools and weapons of
Developed Masons, Weavers carpenters workers copper and bronze;
in addition Carpenters ornaments of
to agriculture gold, silver, precious
stones
4. Transport Carts, wagons, both land and Silk route both land and water
boats, ships water
5. Script and Cuneiform Hieroglyphics Common chinese Harappan script
language language (Not deciphered yet)
6. Religion Worshipped sky Temples worshipped Mother Goddess,
Sun, Moon dedicated to number of lingam worship
fertility particular Gods deities, ancestors
in each town nature and spirits
6 :: Learner Guide

7. Ruling class Priests, kings Priests, Pharaohs, Shangs (1523- Kings 2500 BC-
aristocrats ministers (kings) 1122 BC) Zhous 1500 BC
(1122-221 BC)
Chun (221 BC -
220 AD)

8. Other classes Merchants, slaves, Peasants, traders, Peasants, Peasants

of society ordinary people craftspersons merchants, and Merchants
and merchants craftspersons

9. Famous – Pyramids, Great wall of Great Bath

Monuments mummified bodies China

10. Miscellaneous – Knowledge of Confucius Decline due to floods

weights and emphasised or drying up of rivers
measures society, or decline of overseas
government, and trade
family
emphasised good
moral character

Greek (2000 years ago; city states)

Roman (510 BC)
Iron age civilization Persian (550 BC)
Early Vedic or Rigvedic 1500 BC
Indian (Vedic age)
Post Vedic 6th century BC

Buddhism Mauryan Age (322 BC-184BC)

Gautam Buddha was born at Lumbini in 563 BC z Magadha, the powerful Mahajanpada
and at the age of 29 attained enlightenment; gave expanded considerably under Bimbisara,
four noble truths and eight fold path. Ajatshatru, Mahapadman and Chandragupta
Maurya. In 322 BC defeated Nanda dynasty
kings Chandragupta (322-297BC) followed
Jainism by Bimbisara (297BC-272BC) and Ashoka
(272-236BC).
z Rishabhnath, the first tirathankara founder of
Jainism, Parshvanatha 23rd tirathankar and
Vardhamana Mahavira, the 24th tirathankar. Sangam age 300 BC-200AD)
z Mahavir was born in 540 BC at Kundegram
z Sangam assembly of scholars and literary
near Vaishali; became ascetic at the age of 30,
figures held under the royal patronage of
died at Pavapuri in 468 BC near Rajagriha.
Pandyan kings of Madurai. Early Tamil
 Learner Guide :: 7

literature comprised work such as Gupta Age (319 AD-550AD)

Tolkappiyam, Eight Anthologies (Ettutogai),
z Period of high material prosperity mentioned
the ten Idylls (Pathupattu), Eighteen minor
by Fahien (4th-5th AD). Maharaja Shri Gupta
works and three epics (Shilappadikaram,
founder of Gupta dynasty, succeeded by
Manimekalai and Sivaga Sindamani).
Ghatochkach gupta and Chandragupta I (319-
315AD)
Kushana Age z Samudra Gupta (his account available in
z Kushana were a branch of Yue-chi tribe of Allahabad pillar inscription) performed
central Asia. The greatest ruler of the Kushana Ashwamedha Yagna, a symbol of imperial
dynasty was kaniska and he was a devoted authority. His son Chandragupta II (415-455
Buddhist. AD) had brought peace and prosperity.

Post Gupta Age (550 AD-750 AD)

(Period of confusion and disintegration)

Harshvardhan Pushyabhutis Mitrakas Chalukya Pallavas

In North India Thaneshwar Vallabhi Badami Kanchi
(Gujarat)

Indian Civilization - An Overview Evaluate Yourself

z Tremendous progress in philosophy and
Q. Compare Mesopotamian culture with that of
various branches of science.
Chinese.
z Indian contribution to the field of Mathematics,
Q. Give three characteristic features of Roman
Astronomy, Chemistry, Metallurgy and
and Persian civilization.
Medicine remarkable.
z Aryabhatta and Varahmihira, both Q. Enumerate ancient Indian contribution to the
mathematicians and astronomers of great world civilization.
repute. Charak and Sushurata are great
physicians
z Nagarjuna, famous chemist and pharmacist.
z Concept of zero and decimal system evolved
in India.
z Great skill in Art, Architecture, Painting and
sculpture, Ashokan pillar
z Caves of Ajanta, Ellora, South Indian Temples
Stupa of Sanchi.
MEDIEVAL WORLD

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

2 Medieval World Critical Thinking, Creative Thinking Visiting Museum, Learning and
Problem Solving Understanding History by seeing
visuals e.g., Paintings, Sculpture,
and Architectural remains etc.

Meaning

There was transformation of European Society after the downfall of the Roman Empire, and the birth of
a new religion called Islam which led to the founding of a vast empire that originated in West Asia and
spread out over a large part of the world. The Medieval Period is also called the Middle Age. The period
which succeeded the ancient period and come before the Modern Period.

Feudalism: Political, Military and Decline of Roman Empire

Socio-Economic Aspects
z The western province’s capital was Rome and
z Feudalism was a hierarchical or graded Eastern’s Constantinople.
organization of political sovereignty; its z The Roman Empire in the west came to an
structure stood like a ladder. end following attacks by various Germanic
z At the top stood the king; below him stood the tribes like the Goths, Vandals, Visigoths and
big lords known as Dukes and Earls. Franks.
z Below these lords were a number of lesser
lords known as the Barons. Below these were
the knights, who were perhaps the lowest lords
z Vassal: a person owing homage or fidelity to Change in Feudal Economy:
a superior lower lord is vassal to the upper Prosperity and Crisis in
lord. Also a person granted use of lands. Medieval Europe
z The vassal would take a vow to serve the lord z The few centuries after the collapse of Roman
all his life mainly including military services Empire were marked by a low level of
z The entire landed estate over which a feudal economic life.
lord had control was known as the manor. z There was a decline in town life, trade and
z The manor was a self-sufficient economic monetary exchange.
unit. This means that almost all articles of z Technology used in agriculture was back-
everyday use were produced and consumed ward and agriculture yields were low.
on it.
 Learner Guide :: 9

z During this period, learning remained a z Their Empire was called Delhi Sultanate.
privilege of the few. The masses received no Dynasties, such as the Khaljis and the Tuglaqs.
z In South the Vijayanagar and Bahmani were
formal education. The language of learning
was Latin which was known only to the priestly the two supremacy.
z Mughals marked a new era in Indian History
class.
in the early 16th century.
Political Institutions
z Mughals appointed mansabdars who
Arab Civilization During
performed military and civil duties.
the Medieval Period
Economy
z Arabia is a penisula of deserts. Before the z The Delhi Sultanate as well as the Mughal

founding of lslam, most Arabs were Bedouins, Empire was based on surplus of agricultural
that is, wandering camel herdsmen. produce of the peasants that was extracted in
z Arabia become a safer transit route for the form of revenue.
z Trade and commerce, which had declined
Caravans going between Africa and Asia. The
most prominent of these was Macca which greatly following the period of the Guptas,
lay on the junction of some major trade routes. saw a revival during this time.
Culture and Religious Life
z Prophet Muhammad who spread Islam was
z The Medieval period witnessed a great
born in Mecca in to the Quraish tribe in 570 synthesis of traditions in culture and religion.
A.D. He grew up to be a prosperous trader,
z The Bhakti movement and Sufism in religious
entering the service of a rich widow Khadija, sphere.
whom he later married.
z Language, literature, art, architecture music
z The word ‘Islam’ means absolute submission and dance also bore out this trend of synthesis
to God and adherence to faith. The followers between different traditions.
of this faith are known as Muslim. z Under the Mughals, painting was organised

Society and Culture in the royal karkhanas and painters were on

government payroll.
z Arab philosophy was based on the study of
z Another fascinating aspect of cultural life in
earlier Greek thought. Greek Philosophy was
cultivated by philosophers who believed in medieval India is reflected in its Indo-Islamic
rationality. They practiced Astrology and architecture, new features like the arch and
the dome were combined with the use of
Medicine.
Hindu motifs like bell, lotus swastika, and
kalash/water pot.
z The Bhakti and Sufi tradition also gave an

Medieval Indian Civilization inputs to new devotional styles of music.

(8th & 10th century)

z Between the 8th and 10th century: In the

North, Palas Pratiharas and Rastrakutas; in Evaluate Yourself
the south Cholas.
Q. Describe the bond between the feudal Lords
Political Events
and their vassals in about 30 words.
z Turks had established their rule over most of
Q. Who was the founder of Islam Arabia?
Northern India by the 13th Century.
Q. Name two famous painters of Mughal Period?
z The Turkish rulers were known as Sultans and
ruled from their capital at Delhi.
MODERN WORLD – I

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

3 Modern World–I Critical Thinking, Creative Thinking Interacting with Information

Problem Solving, Self Awareness on Internet/Reference
Books, stories, articles, etc.

Meaning

With the decline of feudalism, the restrictions on peasants become a thing of the past simultaneously,
the period witnessed the rise of powerful merchant class, which financed discoveries of new lands.
These, with other factors, brought about the Industrial revolution which led a sea change throughout the
world. This was the begining of the Modern Age.

Renaissance Development of Science

z Renaissance is the awakening that encouraged z Renaissance scientists paved the way for
thinking and reasoning in social and political observation and experimentation in all fields
fields and affected every aspect of life. of knowledge.
z Discovery of trade routes, brought goods that z One of the most remarkable achievements of
enriched the lives of Europeans. the Renaissance period in science was in the
field of astronomy.
z New ideas were generated in this period like
humanism, rationalism and the spirit of
inquiry. Discovery of New Lands
z The new Trade routes that were discovered
changed the history of the world.
Reformation z Direct sea routes to South Asia and South East
Asia were discovered.
z The Medieval Catholic Church came to be
associated with superstitions and greed for z Vasco da Gama discovered the sea route to
money. India via Cape of Good Hope and Columbus
who had set out for India reached America
z It was in 1517 AD that in the West the Christian
both being discoveries for Europeans.
world was divided into two sects, the
Protestants and the Roman Catholics. z The tremendous increase in trade and
colonisation had a great impact on the
enhancement of European Wealth.
 Learner Guide :: 11

Industrial Revolution French Revolution

z The Industrial Revolution began in England z In the 18th century, the French society was
from about 1750 AD. divided into three classes or estates.
z The new developments like the coming in of z The first Estate was that of clergy or priests
new machineries to improve production led working in the Church.
to unequal classes – the rich and the poor.
z The second Estate of Nobility enjoyed all the
luxuries and many privileges related to religion
and the governance of the country.
z The Third Estate of Commoners such as
Age of Revolutions peasantry, city workers and the middle class
z There was a very strong dissatisfaction with were heavily burdened with taxes.
political leadership and people started z The Third Estate demanded equality in
demanding more participation in the affairs of taxation and abolition of special privileges
the State. enjoyed by the first two estates. It declared
itself a National Assembly and took over the
sovereign power from the Emperor.
z As a result, France witnessed a complete
The Glorius Revolution change in the government, administration,
military, society and culture.
z The Glorious Revolution of 1688 occurred in
England much before the Age of Revolutions
and became a source of inspiration for the
Unification of Italy
world. It was called the Glorious Revolution
because no blood was shed to achieve its z In the 18th Century, Italy was a collection of
success. small States, each having its own monarch
and traditions.
z After France became a republic, secret clubs
favouring an Italian Republic were formed
American War of Independence throughout Italy.
z In 1765, the British Parliament passed the
Stamp Act.
z On 16th December,1773 some Americans Unification of Germany
disguised as Native Indians descended upon
the three ships of East India Company and z After Napoleon’s defeat in 1815, many
dumped the tea, being carried in them, into the Germans wanted an independent Germany.
sea. This came to be called the Boston Tea Germany was a confederation of 39 small
Party. states, led by Austria and Prussia.

z This led to fights and finally to the ‘Declaration z The King of Prussia, Kaiser William I, chose
of Independence ‘on July 1776 at a Congress Bismarck as Prime Minister to unify Germany
at Philadelphia. under the rule of Prussia, excluding Austria
and France completely.
12 :: Learner Guide

Socialist Movement and Evaluate Yourself

the Russian Revolution
Q. Define Feudalism. Give at least two features
z The Industrial Revolution had led to an unequal of feudalism.
society. The industrial workers were poverty –
Q. Describe the condition of the industrial
striken and lived in very bad conditions. In
workers which influenced the Russian
contrast, the industrialist were rich and lived
Revolution.
in luxury.
Q. The Glorious Revolution of 1688 was a source
z The workers got united and the idea of
of inspiration for the world. Justify this
Socialism, which tries to establish equal
statement within 30 words.
society, began to take roots.
z The first country where the idea of socialism
took deep roots was Russia leading to the
Russian Revolution. This resulted in the
establishment of the first socialist government
of the world.
MODERN WORLD – II

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

4 Modern World–II Self Awarness, Critical Thinking, Interacting with Information

Creative Thinking, Problem Solving on Internet/Reference,
Books, stories, artciles, etc.

Meaning
Industrial Revolution brought social and economic changes that transformed the agricultural society to
a modern industrial society. The industrialised nations needed raw materials for their industries as well
as markets for their finished good. The necessitiated colonization of under developed countries. This
transformed the industrial nations into imperialists and led to rivalry amongst them for supremacy. This
imperialism and rivalry led to World Wars.

The Rise of Imperialism And

Innovations and Technological Changes
Colonialism
During the Industrial Revolution
z The main feature of Imperialism was that it
Textile Industry
drained out the wealth resources from the
z Textile Industry was the first one with mass
colonies and transferred them to the imperialist
production
countries.
Steam Engine
z Steyewron invented the steam engine. In 1764 Imperialism in Africa (1880 & 1910)
James Watt improved upon the design & Imperialim in Asia
improved the efficiency of the stream engine China opium war and its defeat
fourfold.
Japan The Meiji Restoration began in 1868.
Coal and Iron
South and South-East Asia Sri Lanka was
z The steam engine, coal and iron laid the
occupied by the Portuguese then by the Dutch
foundations for modern Industry.
and later by the British.

Means of Transportation and

Communication Impact Of Imperialism
z In 1700 bridges and roads were constructed.
z It drained both Asia and Africa of their wealth,
Soon steam engine & railways were
raw materials and the exploited their markets
transporting goods over tracks throughout
by selling their industrial goods, imperialist
England & supporting canal transportation.
countries thereby destroying the economy of
z The invention of telegraph and telephone these colonies. In India, they destroyed our
made it possible to communicate in the world. prosperous economy.
14 :: Learner Guide

World War I Immediate Consequences

of World War I
Causes of World War I
z Division of colonies in Asia and Africa created z World War I was one of the most disastrous
conditions of war. and frightening events the world had
witnessed. A million people including innocent
z In the last quarter of the 19th century, Germany civilians lost their lives.
became the main competitor of England.
The League of Nations
z In 1882, Germany, Austria and Italy signed
z The League was the first international
the Triple Alliance pledging mutual military
organisation set up in 1920 with its
assistance against rival powers. headquarters at Geneva.
z England, Russia and France signed the Triple z Its main aims were to maintain peace and
Entente in 1907. security in the world, prevent future war,
z Emergence of two mutually opposed groups promote international co-operation, settle
divided Europe into hostile camps leading to international disputes peacefully and improve
tension and conflicts among European powers. the conditions of labourers in member countries.

The World between the

Pan Slav Movement and two World Wars
the Balkan Politics
z The Growth of Fascism and Nazism.
z The murder of Archduke Francis Ferdinand z England and France too had to face severe
became the immediate cause of the war. economic crisis, scarcity and unemployment.
z Soviet Union emerged as the first Socialist
State of the world. It was the only country to
remain unaffected while all the Western
capitalist countries suffered due to the
The Course of the War (1914-1918)
Economic Depression in 1929.
z After the end of World War I, USA suffered
z World War I which started in August 1914 the worst economic crisis in 1929 due to
continued till November 1918. overproduction.
z The year 1917 saw two important developments z Japan was the only country in Asia which
– one was the entry of USA in the war in April emerged as an imperialist country. During the
and second was the withdrawal of Russia two World Wars, Japan became a strong
from the war in November. military power and supported Fascism.
 Learner Guide :: 15

WORLD WAR II Evaluate Yourself

z The League of Nations failed in its aim of Q. How did the development in means of transport
preventing future war, World War II started and communication assist the merchants?
in 1939.
Q. What were the main objectives of the United
z Both the Fascist (in Italy) and Nazi (in
Nations Organisation?
Germany) Parties glorified war and promised
Q. Describe the main causes of World War I.
to their people that they would bring back the
lost glory of their countries through war.
z Being capitalist countries, Britain, France etc.

wanted to check the spread of Communism

by the Soviet Union. So they adopted a
systematic policy called Appeasement Policy
favouring Italy and Germany.
Consequences of the War
z The war came to an end in September 1945.

z The German Jews were either exterminated

or sent to concentration camps.

z The Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki

were almost wiped off when atomic bombs

were dropped on them.
z USA and Soviet Union emerged as super

powers.
z UNO (United Nations organization) was set

up with the major objective of maintaining

international peace and security.
IMPACT OF BRITISH RULE ON INDIA: ECONOMIC, SOCIAL
AND CULTURAL (1757-1857)

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

5 Impact of British Rule Interpersonal Relationship Skills, Visiting Monuments related

on India: Economic, Empathy, Critical Thinking to the events e.g., Lucknow
Social and Cultural Residencies, seeing some films
(1757-1857) like Mangal Panday, reading
poems like Rani Laxmi Bai, etc.

Meaning

British Rule had a tremendous effect on Indian society, economy & culture. It also gave rise to a sense
of nationhood and a spirit of Nationalism arose which resulted in National Awakening and a feeling
of revolt against Britishers.

Methods of Colonisation In India Economic Impact

z England succeeded in controlling trade with z English merchants succeeded in selling their
India and established the East India Company goods at a cheap price as foreign goods were
in 1600. The first factory was established at given free entry in India without paying any
Surat in 1613. duty.
z The battles of Plassey (1757) and Buxar (1764) z Indian handicrafts were taxed heavily when
provided the ground for the British success in they were sent out of the country.
India. z This made a huge impact on the Indian
The Anglo-Mysore Wars: Ended in the heroic handloom weaving industry leading to its
defeat and death of Tipu Sultan. Large ports like virtual collapse.
Kanara, Coimbatore and Srirangapatnam were
secured by the British (1799 AD).
The Anglo-Maratha Wars: The English Impact of Land Revenue Policy
defeated the Peshwa, dethroned him and annexed
all his territories. The land revenue experiments of the British like
the Permanent Settlement, the Mahalwari
The Anglo-Sikh Wars: Punjab was annexed by
Settlement and the Ryotwari Settlement
Lord Dalhousie. Maharaja Dalip Singh, the son
caused hardship to cultivators.
of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was pensioned off and
sent to England. Commercialisation of Agriculture took place
with tea, coffee, indigo, opium, cotton, jute,
Soon many more native states came under British
sugarcane and oilseed being grown. As a result
control through the systems of Doctrine of Lapse
food grain production went down.
and Subsidiary Alliance.
 Learner Guide :: 17

Rise of the New Middle Class Impact of the Reform Movement

z During British rule, India witnessed the z The religious reform movements instilled in
introduction of new law courts, government the minds of Indians greater self-respect, self-
officials and commercial agencies. confidence and pride in their country.
z The Britishers also created a new professional z The introduction of modern education guided
and service-holding middle class, apart from the Indians towards a scientific and rational
those with landed interests. approach to life.

Protests Movements
Transport and Communication
z The adverse impact of the British rule on the
z The vast network of railways was pioneered political, economic and social spheres resulted
during the latter half of the 19th century. in sharp reaction of the Indian people against
z This opened avenues for British bankers and the foreigners.
investors to invest surplus wealth and material z This led to a series of the anti-British
in the construction of railways. movements throughout the country. Peasants
and tribes rebelled against exploitative rulers.

British Impact on Society and Culture

Impact of the Revolt of 1857
z Indian society had certain social ills like female
infanticide, child marriage, Sati, polygamy z The Revolt of 1857 for the first time unified
and a rigid caste system. and brought together people having different
ethnic, religious and class background against
z Other malpractices were expensive rituals,
the British rule.
sacrifices and practices after birth or death
outlined by the priestly class. z The revolt brought an end to East India
Company’s rule, along with changes in the
z Many legal measures were introduced to
British policy towards Indian States.
improve the status of women. The practice of
Sati was banned in 1829. Widow Remarriage
was permitted. Sharda Act was passed in 1929
Evaluate Yourself
preventing child marriage.
Q. Why did the British think it important to
introduce English language in India?
Education Policy Q. How do you think British land policies affected
Education policy was so concieved that the Indians the peasants and the landlords?
would be ready to work as clerks on low wages to Q. Why did the revolt of 1857 scare the
create a class of Indians who were loyal to the relationships of Hindus and Muslims?
British & appreciate the culture of the British and
help to increase the market for British goods.
 RELIGIOUS AND SOCIAL AWAKENING IN COLONIAL INDIA

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

6 Religious and Social Empathy, Self Awareness, Understand the importance of the
Awakening in Critical thinking, Problem Solving works of Raja Ram Mohan Rai,
Colonial India Swami Dayanand, Sir Syed
Ahmed Khan and work done
by the Akali movements in
building the Khalsa

Meaning

In the first half of 19th century the society was backward due (i) lack of education and (i) subordination
of women. This prevented society’s progress. Many reformers came up during this period who contributed
to religious and social awakening helped in tranfroming the society for betterment.

Lack of Education Caste system

z Education was limited to handful of men z Hindu society was based on varna system.
belonging to upper castes.
z People were divided on the basis of their
z Religious texts e.g. Vedas were written in occupation.
Sanskrit and monopolized by the priestly class.
z Brahmins engaged in praying and worshiping
z Meaningless rituals, sacrifices and practices gods.
were outlined by priestly class for their own
z Kshatriyas engaged in wars.
material gain.
z Vaishyas worked in the field of agriculture and
trading.
Position of Women z Shudras used to serve upper three varnas.
z Women did not enjoy an equal status with men.
z Women had neither right to property nor access
to education. Social and Religious Reforms

z Polygamy, i.e. (having more than one wife) z Social reform and religious reform to together.
was practised by men, while women could not z Reformers blended positive Indian values with
have more than one husband. western ideas and the principles of democracy
z Widowed women were compelled to burn & equality.
themselves on the funeral pyre of their husbands
(sati pratha).
 Learner Guide :: 19

Educational scenario z Muslim Reform Movement: Mohammedan

Literary Society of Calcutta founded by Abdul
z Pathshalas, Madarsas, Temples, Mosques, Latif in 1863.
Gurukuls were centres of traditional education.
Sanskrit, Grammar, Arithmetic, Religion and z The Akali Reform Movement : A powerful
Philosophy were the subjects taught; there was Satyagraha in 1921 against the Mahants forced
no place for science and technology. the Government to pass a new Gurdwara Act in
1925.
z Reform Movement among the Parsis: In
Socio-religious reformers mid 19th century, Narouji Furdonji, Dadabhai
of 19th century Naoroji and S.S. Bengalee began religious
reform movement among Parsis in Mumbai.
z Raja Ram Mohan Roy: founded Brahmo
Samaj in 1828.
z Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar: dedicated his Impact of the Reform
entire life to social reforms. Movements on Indian Society

z Ramakrishna Paramhansa and Swami All movements worked to improve women’s status
Vivekanand: Ramkrishna Paramhansa (1836- and criticised the caste system, advocated social
1886) highlighted unity of religions; Swami equality and strived towards liberty, equality and
Vivekanand (1863-1902) was his foremost fraternity. Law was passed in 1872 for inter-caste
disciple. and inter-communal marriages. Marriageable age
of girls was raised to ten in 1860 by law and further
z Sir Syed Ahmed Khan: believed that religion to 14 for girls and 18 for boys under the Sharda Act,
and social life of muslims could be improved 1929.
only by imbibing modern western scientific
knowledge and culture.
z Jyotirao Govindrao Phule: Along with his Evaluate Yourself
wife Savitri bai Phule in Maharashtra worked
for education of women and lower castes. Q. What were the hinderances of Indian Society
towards the path of progress?
z Justice Mahadev Govind Ranade: established
Poona Sarvajanik Sabha and Prarthna Samaj in Q. Discuss the role of Raja Ram Mohan Roy and
1867 in Bomay to bring about religious reforms. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar for the cause of
social reforms.
z Swami Dayanand Saraswati: founded Arya
Samaj in 1875 in North India for reforming Q. Describe Muslim Reform Movement and
Hindu religion. Akali Reform Movement.
z Pandita Ramabai: fought for the rights of Q. Write note on the contribution of swami
women and spoke against the practice of child vivekanand, Swami Dayanand Sarswati,
marriage in Maharashtra; started Arya Mahila Pandita Ramabai and Annie Besant.
Samaj in1881.
z Annie Besant: Member of Theosophical
Society; came to India in 1893.
 POPULAR RESISTANCE TO THE BRITISH RULE

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

7 Popular Resistance Self Awareness, Empathy, Visit any tribal museums

to the British Rule Critical thinking and try to understand their
living styles

Meaning
Exploitation of natural and human resources by British led to rise of Popular Resistance Movements
mainly by Peasants, Tribals and Sainiks. The most important Popular Resistance to the British rule during
the 19th century was the revolt of 1857. There was a sense of self confidence that gave an impact to National
Awakening.

Causes of Popular Nature of Popular

Resistance Movements Resistance Movements
z Policies under the British rule had undermined Violence and plunder were the two most popular
the rights, status and economic position of tools used by the rebels to express their resistance
Indians. against their oppressors.
z There were a series of civil rebellions which
were led by rulers who were deposed by the
Britishers, ex-officials of the conquered Indian Significance of Peasant Revolt
states, impoverished zamindars and poligars z Though these revolts were not aimed at
who wanted to regain their land and estates. uprooting the British rule from India, they
z The tribal groups rebelled because they did not created awareness among the Indians.
want the traders and moneylenders to interfere z They now felt a need to organize and fight
in their life style. against exploitation and oppression.
z Interference in religious practices was another
cause of these popular rebellions. Often these
revolts were anti-Christian.

Peasant Revolts

Faquir and Sanyasi Indigo Rebellion Farazi Movement Wahabi Movement

Rebellion in Bengal 1859-1862 1838-1848 1830-1860
in 1770 Bihar and Bengal Bengal (Bengal)
 Learner Guide :: 21

Tribal Revolts

Santhal Rebellion Jaintia and Garo Kol uprising

(1855-57) Rebellion (1831-1832)
(1860-1870)
Munda Rebellion Uprising of Bhils Mapplie uprising
(1899-1900) (1818-1831) (1836-1854)

Many other uprisings took place against the British policies of exploitation and destruction of the tribals.
They were finally put down.

The Revolt 1857

Causes of the Revolt

Political Social and Immediate

Doctrine of lapse Religious Greased Cartridge
Subsidiary Alliance Social reforms
Annexation of native states against sati, widow
remarriage etc.
Interference in religious
practices by the britishers
Economic Discontent in
Drain of wealth by the British the Army
Land Revenue policy Low wages and
of Britishers abolition of foreign
Famines in India allowance to British
Indian Sepoys
Religious sentiments of
Hindu and Muslim sepoys hurt

Course of the Revolt Nature of the Revolt

z A sepoy called Mangal Pandey was the first z A big debate surrounds the revolt of 1857.
soldier who openly disobeyed orders. British historians describe the events of 1857
z At Meerut where 85 sepoys of the cavalry -1858 as merely a mutiny by the sepoys.
regiment were sentenced to 2-10 years
z Some Indian historians tend to call it the First
imprisonment for refusing to use greased
cartridges. War of Independence.

z The very next day, on 10th May 1857, three z The participation of peasants and artisans made
regiments broke into open mutiny. the revolt a widespread and popular event.
It was also characterised by Hindu-Muslim
z They declared the Mughal Emperor Bahadur
unity.
Shah as the emperor of India.
z From Delhi the revolt spread to other places
like Kanpur, Lucknow, Jhansi.
22 :: Learner Guide

Failure of the Revolt The Legacy of the Revolt

Various causes led to the failure of the Revolt of z Though the efforts of the rebels failed, the
1857. British government was pressurised to change
their policy towards India.
z There was no unity of purpose among the
z In August 1858 the British crown assumed
rebels.
control of India from the East India Company
z The middle and upper classes as well as the and Queen Victoria was crowned empress of
modern educated Indians did not support the India.
revolt. The leadership of the movement was
z This brought to an end the rule of East India
weak. Indian leaders lacked organisation and
Company.
planning.
z Radical changes were introduced in the army.
z No national leader emerged to coordinate the
movement and give it a purpose and direction. z The strength of European troops in India was
increased and the number of Indian troops
z The revolt was confined to Bengal Presidency
reduced from the pre- 1857 figure.
while Madras and Bombay Presidencies were
unaffected.

Evaluate Yourself
Q. Identify the major causes of the revolt of 1857.
Q. Why did the revolt fail to sustain its initial success?
Q. Why was it felt that the army was responsible for the crisis of 1857?
 INDIAN NATIONAL MOVEMENT

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

8 Indian National Self Awareness, Critical thinking, Learn and Read more on
Movement Problem Solving, Empathy the Freedom Fighters and
enlist their contributions in
Freedom Movements

Meaning

Anti-Colonial Movement gave rise to a feeling of Nationalism. In 1885 Indian National Congress was
founded by A.O. Hume. There were phases of Naram Dal and Garam Dal. The Partition of Bengal in 1905
gave rise to a strong national movement. The Non Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience and finally
Quit India Movement resulted in Independence of India and of course its partition.

The Rise of Radical Nationalists Partition of Bengal

z The Swadeshi movement was spearheaded by In 1905, Curzon announced the partition of Bengal,
the trio – Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar an attempt to disrupt the growing national
Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal (Lal-Bal-Pal). movement in Bengal and divide the Hindus and
The marked the beginning of a new face in Muslims of the region. This led rise to the Swadeshi
India’s struggle for freedom. They represented Movement
the Garam Dal. In 1907, the garam Dal led by
Gopal Krishna Gokhale and Naram Dal Emergence of Gandhi
separated. z Mohan Das Karamchand Gandhi’s first
z In 1916 both Garam Dal and Naram Dal experiment in Satyagraha began at Champaran
united with the efforts of Mrs. Annie Besant. in Bihar in 1917 when he inspired the peasants to
struggle against the oppressive plantation system.
z In 1916, Muslim League and Congress signed z He launched a nationwide Satyagraha against
the Lucknow Pact. the proposed Rowlatt Act in 1919.
z In 1927, Simon Commission came to India to
z On 13th April, 1919 on the occasion of suggest measures for constitutional reforms.
Baisakhi fair at Jallianwalla Bagh (Amritsar) z During March-April, 1930, Gandhi marched
a British officer General Dyer ordered the from his Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi on the
army to open fire on the crowd with their Gujarat coast to challenge the government on
machine guns. Within a few minutes about a salt laws.
thousand persons were killed. The massacre z Gandhiji went to London in 1931and
aroused the fury of the Indian people. participated in the second round table
conference but returned empty handed.
z The Civil Disobedience Movement, though a
failure, was a vital phase in the struggle.
24 :: Learner Guide

The Revolutionaries Quit India Movement and After

z The reactionary policy of the British developed z Addressing the Congress delegates on the night
a deep hatred among a section of the younger of 8th August, 1942 Gandhiji, in his soul stirring
generation of India. speech, said : “I therefore want freedom
z As a result Youths were trained in aggressive immediately. The mantra is Do or Die”.
methods of violence as a means of strength z Quit India Movement became one of the
against the British. greatest mass-movements of historical
significance.
z In 1946, the Cabinet Mission arrived in India
to find a mutually agreed solution of the Indian
The Development of Socialist Ideas Problem.
z A significant feature of the twentieth century
was the development of Socialist ideas. Partition and Independence of India
z The All India Trade Union Congress which z The Muslim League rejected the Cabinet
was founded in 1920 mobilized the workers for Mission Plan in the middle of 1946.
the cause of complete independence. z In September 1946, the Congress formed the
z Because of differences with Gandhi, Bose government at the Centre.
resigned from the Congress and formed his z The conflict resulted in widespread communal
own ‘Forward Bloc’. riots in different parts of India.
z Lord Mountbatten was sent as the Viceroy to
India. He put up his plan in June 1947 which
included partition of India.
The Communal Divide z Inspite of strong opposition by Gandhi, All the
parties agreed to the partition and the Indian
z Under the Act of 1935, seventeen separate
Independence Act, 1947 came into being.
electorates were constituted. They hampered
z It created two independent states in the Indian
the growth of national unity.
sub-continent, i.e. Indian Union and Pakistan.
z The immediate cause of the emergence of the India got its independence on 15th August,
demand for Pakistan was the refusal of the 1947.
Congress to form coalition ministries after the z At the stroke of mid-night (14th -15th August,
elections of 1937. 1947), transfer of power took place.

Evaluate Yourself
Q. Identify the causes that led to the rise of nationalism in India.
Q. Discuss the various national movements in India during 19th century.
Q. List the names of prominent leaders of the Indian national movements.
 PHYSIOGRAPHY OF INDIA

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

9 Physiography of Self Awareness, Problem Solving, Appreciate Relief Features

India Critical Thinking, Decision Making of Surroundings

Meaning
India is a large country. India is the seventh largest country of the world. It extends from the state of Jammu
and Kashmir in the North to the state of Tamil Nadu in the South; from the state of Arunachal Pradesh in
the east to the state of Gujarat in the west. We have the Himalayas, the world’s highest mountain ranges,
northern plains, one of the largest plains of the world.

Location and Extent Locational Significance

z Latitudinal extent of Indian mainland is 8°4′ to z India is seventh largest country in the world.
37°6′ North.
z It has land boundaries of 15200 Kms and
z Longitudinal extent of Indian mainland is 68°7′
6100 Kms long coast line.
to 97°25′ East.
z North – South extent is 3214 Kms. z Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep
z East – West extent is 2933 Kms. are the important islands which are located
in the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea
z India accounts for 2.42% of the total land area
respectively.
of the world.
z India lies entirely in the Northern hemisphere z India is a group of 28 States and 7 union
and Eastern hemisphere. Territories.
z The tropic of cancer (23°30′N latitude) passes z India is strategically located in Indian ocean.
through almost the centre of the country.
z It commands sea routes between Europe and
z The Indian Standard Meridian (82°30′E Africa, South-east Asia, Far East Asia and
longitude) passes almost from the middle of Oceania.
the country.
z India has a good location in terms of sea and
z India is surrounded by water from three sides
i.e. Arabian Sea (West), Bay of Bengal (East) land boundaries as well as its surroundings.
and Indian Ocean (South)
z Kannya Kumari is the southern most (8°4′N
latitude) point of Indian Mainland.
26 :: Learner Guide

Physical Divisions of India

The Northern The Northern The Peninsular The Desert The Coastal The Islands
Mountain Plain Plateau Plain

The Indus The Ganga The Brahmputra Andaman Lakshadweep

Plain Plain Plain Nicobar

The Himalayas Trans Himalayas Purvanchal hill

The East The West
Coast Coast
Himadri Shivaliks Mishami Patkoi
Himachal Garo Mizo etc
Mahanadi Godavari
Krishna Kaveri
Zaskar Ladakh Karakoram

Narmada Tapi

The central The Deccan

High Lands Plateau

The Malwa The Chhota The Eastern The Western

Plateau Nagpur Plateau Ghats Ghats

Drainage System ot India rivers. Much amount of biological, chemical and

industrial pollutant affluents in the river and lakes
Himalayan Peninsular result in destroyed aquatic life and health hazards.
Drainage system Drainage System
The government has taken initiatives such as Ganga
• Perennial • Non Perennial (Seasonal) Action Plan (GAP) and the National River
• Indus, Ganga, • Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Conservation Plan (NRCP) for the quality
Brahmaputra Kaveri rivers improvement of water.
River Systems

Keeping Rivers Clean

Evaluate Yourself
Water is the basis of life but we are using less than
1% as freshwater. This small amount provides the Q. ‘India is a country of physical diversity’.
freshwater to all forms of life. Therefore, it is Explain it with suitable examples.
valuable for everyone. The increasing water Q. How do the Himalayas act as natural barriers
pollution in our fresh water sources like rivers and for India? Specify.
lakes are the cause of scarcity of water.
Q. How does the Ganga River System help in the
Cities are located on the banks of rivers and the economic development of the northern plains
rivers are being highly polluted. Only sewage of India.
claims about 70 percent pollution loads in Indian
 CLIMATE

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

10 Climate Critical thinking, Problem Solving, Festival Related with

Effective Communication, Various Seasons
Decision Making

Meaning
India has monsoon type of climate. The word ‘monsoon ‘refers to the seasonal reversal of the wind direction
in a year. Due to this, India has four prominent seasons – cold weather season, hot weather season,
advancing southwest monsoon season and post or retreating monsoon season.
Monsoons are irregular in nature and are affected by different atmospheric conditions. Because of this,
sometimes monsoons are late or sometimes early. Monsoonal rainfall is not equally distributed. It goes on
decreasing from east to west in the northern plains and decreases from west to east in the southern part of
India. In some parts of the country the floods are causing havoc, whereas in other parts of the country
drought makes people unhappy.
There are many factors which affect the climate of India. These are location, distance from the sea, altitude,
mountain ranges, direction of surface winds and upper air currents.
Most of the rainfall of India is received by advancing south-west moisture bearing winds. Due to the
tapering of mainland into Indian ocean, the south west monsoons are divided into two branches, viz.
Arabian Sea branch and Bay of Bengal branch. The amount of rainfall received at a particular place depends
upon its location besides other factors. Himalayas also play an important role in blocking these winds from
going towards north and compel them to shed their moisture in India.

Principal Points
There are four distinct areas of rainfall
z Areas of heavy rainfall - more than 200 cms
Areas - Western Coast, sub-Himalayan Region of North eastern states, Garo, Khasi, Jayantia hills of
Meghalaya.
z Areas of Moderate rainfall - 100 to 200 cm Areas - Western Ghats, West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar etc.
z Areas of low rainfall - 60 to 100 cms, Areas - Rajasthan and interior Deccan Plateau.
z Areas of inadequate rainfall - less than 60 cms Areas- Western part of Rajasthan and Gujarat, Ladakh
and south central part of India. (See map in the study material)
28 :: Learner Guide

Climate

Factors Mechanism of Seasons

Monsoon

Location Distance Altitude Winds Jetstream

from sea
Cold weather Hot weather South west Retreating
season season Monsoon Monsoon
season season

Build Your Understanding Seasons Months Temp. Rainfall Fetival

Celebrated

Mechanism of Monsoon Cold Dec. to Low No Rainfall Makar San-

Weather February Temp. except coast kranti,
During summer, the interior parts of North India of TamilNadu Pongal,
plains are intensely heated. This high temperature Basant
heats up the air and a low pressure is created. This Panchmi
low presure is also known as monsoonal trough. Hot March to High Mango Holi,
On the other hand, temperature over the Indian Weather May Temp. showers Baisakhi
ocean is relatively low causing high pressure in the Hot & dry (Kerala,
wind (Loo) Karnataka)
region. Due to this difference in air pressure, the
Kal Baisakhi
winds start blowing from high pressure to low W. Bengal,
pressure or from sea to land. Their direction is just Assam)
opposite, i.e. southwest to northeast. Since these Advancing June to Hot & Wet Whole of Onam
South Sept. India gets (Kerala)
winds blow from sea to land, they are moisture
West rain
laden and cause rainfall. Monsoon

Al Nino and southern oscillation also affect the Retreating October, Humid Cyclone in Durga Pooja,
monsoons. or Post Nov. and Warm the Bay of Dusshehra,
Monsoon (October Bengal Diwali
season heat)

Evaluate Yourself
Global warming is also affecting Indian climate.
The cycle of seasons has been disturbed. Global Q. How are our socio-cultural activities related
warming has been caused due to industrialisation, with monsoons?
urbanisation and emission of gases like carbon Q. What happens when the monsoon is late or the
dioxide, chlorofluoro carbon and other dangerous rainfall is deficient?
gases. It is time for us to stop or at least minimise Q. Make a list of such human activities which are
such activities which are responsible for global responsible for increasing the global
warming. temperature.
 BIO-DIVERSITY

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

11 Bio-Diversity Self Awareness, Critical Thinking, Planting of Trees,

Problem Solving, Creative Thinking Continue to keep
Decision making Biodiversity

Meaning
The diversity of plants and animal provide us food, fuel, medicine, shelter and other essentials without
which we cannot live. These species have evolved over thousands of years. This rich diversity is being lost
at an alarming rate due to human activities. We can contribute in many ways in preserving these species,
plants, animals and other living organisms. It is very important for us to know about various types of plants,
animals and micro-organism.
Bio-diversity is a short form of biological diversity. In simple terms, bio-diversity is the total number
of genes, species and ecosystems of a region. It includes (i) genetic diversity (ii) species diversity and
(iii) eco-system diversity.

Status of Bio-diversity in India Significance of Bio-diversity

Due to its unique location, India is endowed with z Living things are interdependent and
rich bio-diversity. Although India has only 2.4 interrelated in the form of ecosystem.
percent of the world’s land area, but its contribution z Loss of any components of ecosystem affects
to the world’s bio-diversity is approximately 8 other components of the ecosystem.
percent of the total number of species. About
45,000 plants species comprising about 12% of z We get food, water, fibre and fuel etc. from the
the world’s flora are found in Indian forests. Two ecosystem.
of the twelve bio-diversity hot spots in the world z It also regulates the climate.
are in India. These are in North Eastern region and
Western Ghats.
30 :: Learner Guide

Causes of Loss of Biodiversity

(Loss of plants and animals)

Primary Causes Root or underlying

causes

Over Deforestation Climate Pollution

harvesting change

Increasing Changing Public Commercial

Pollution life style and policies exploitation
development

Natural Vegetation of India

Types of Rainfall Temp. Species of Regions Characteristics

Forests trees found
1. Tropical More than Warm Roseword, Western Ghats, • Trees do not shed their
Evergreen 200 cm Ebony, Upper parts of leaves in any particular
Mahogany, Assam, Islands season.
Rubber, of Lakshadweep, • Dense and mixed
Jackwood, Andaman and vegetation
Bamboo Nicobar • Height of tress is 60
metres or more.
2. Tropical 75 to 200 Warm Teak, Bamboo, Entire country except • Moist widespread
Decidious cm Sal, Shesham, some parts of Deccan • Divided into moist
Sandalwood, plateau, North and dry
Kheir, Kusum, Eastern region,
Arjun, Mahua, Western and Eastern
Jamun etc. Ghats
3. Thorn Less tan 75 High Acacia, North Western India, • Dry climate
forest cm Euphorbia’s Interior parts of • long roots, thick and
babool, cactus, Peninsular India shiny small leaves
date and palms
4. Tidal Accumu- Mangrove Deltas of Sundarban, • Branches of trees
Forest late Water or Sundari, Mahanadi, remain submerged in
in the deltas Palms, Coconut, Godawari, Krishna water
Kevra, Agar and Kaveri, Andaman • Flourish in fresh and
& Nicobar Islands salt water
5. Himalyan The vegetation changes according to altitude. The decreasing temperature with
Vegetation increasing altitude lead to varied types of vegetations.
 Learner Guide :: 31

Need of Conservation of Biodiversity Wildlife in India

We know that bio-diversity is fundamental for our India is rich in wildlife. It is estimated that about
existence. We look for food, water, fiber, and 80% of all known plant and animal species on the
shelter in nature. All these components of ecosystem earth are found in India. Wildlife protection Act
are interrelated and inter dependent. If any one was passed in 1972 to save the wildlife. At present,
component is disrupted, it would have disastrous there are 551 wildlife sanctuaries 96 National
effect and will make unbalance in the ecological parks, 25 wetlands and 15 biosphere reserves.
system. Vegetation provides us food, oxygen, helps Besides these, there are 33 botanical Gardens, 275
in preventing soil erosion, regulate climate etc. In zoological parks etc. Special schemes like Project
Tiger, 1973 and Project Elephant, 1992 have been
the same way, wildlife plays an important role in
launched to save endangered species.
maintaining balanced food. Hence, the conservation
of biodiversity is of great importance for the survival
of mankind.

Evaluate Yourself
Q. ‘There is urgent need for conservation of bio-diversity. Justify this statement with suitable examples.
Q. Distinguish between wildlife sanctuaries and National parks.
Q. State any four characteritics of tropical evergreen forests.
 AGRICULTURE IN INDIA

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

12 Agriculture in India Self Awareness, Critical Thinking, Solving Farmers Problems

Effective Communication, Problem
Solving

Meaning
India is said to be the land of farmers and these farmers are mostly living in the rural India. They are
practising farming and are helping the country. Hence, the agriculture in the country is very important.
Various types of agricultural activities are found in different parts of the country. Agriculture is categorised
into different types on the basis of purpose of farming.

Agriculture

Types Major Crops Challenges

Subsistence Intensive Plantation Mixed

Commercial Extensive

Food crops Cash crops Plantation Horticulture

e.g. wheat, rice, e.g. sugarcane, crops e.g. vegetables
millets, pulses cotton, oilseeds e.g. tea, and fruits
coffee

High cost Soil Depletion of Farmer

of inputs exhaustion fresh water suicides

Stagnation Impact of Food Climate

in production globalization security change
 Learner Guide :: 33

Build Your Understanding z Intensive farming : A single piece of land is

used for farming many times in a year to get
z Subsistence farming : Produce from the farm/ maximum return.
field generally used for self consumption.
z Plantation farming: A single type of farming
z Commercial farming: Most of the produces well managed and the produce is sold in the
are sold in the market for earning money market.
z Extensive farming : When a single crop is z Mixed farming : It is a situation in which both
cultivated over an extensive area, it is called raising crops and rearing animals are done
extensive farming. simultaneously.

Major Crops In India

Crop Temp. Rainfall Soil Labour Distribution

Rice 22º to 32ºC 150-300 cm Deep clayey cheap Tamil Nadu, West Bengal,
and loamy labour Andhra Pradesh, Bihar,
Jharkhand, Chattisgarh,
Punjab, Odisha, U.P.,
Karnataka, Assam and
Maharashtra
Wheat 10º to 15ºC 75 cms and loamy and less U.P., Punjab, Haryana,
at sowing Irrigation clayey loamy labour Rajasthan, M.P., Gujarat and
21º to 26ºC Maharashtra
at harvesting
Millets 27º to 32ºC 50 to 100 cm Alluvial and cheap M.P., Gujarat, Rajasthan,
loamy labour Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil
Nadu, A.P., Haryana, Punjab
Pulses 20º to 25ºC 40-45 cm loamy less M.P., U.P., Rajasthan,
labour Haryana, Maharashtra
Sugarcane 21º to 27ºC 75 to 150 cm loamy cheap Sutluj-Ganga plain from
labour Punjab to Bihar, Black soil
belt from Maharashtra to
Tamil Nadu, Coastal A.P. and
Krishna Valley
Cotton 21º to 30ºC 50 to 150 cm Black, Alluvial, cheap and Punjab, Maharashtra, Haryana
red and laterite efficient
labour
Groundnut 20º to 30ºC 50 to 75 cm Sandy loamy, cheap A.P., Tamil Nadu, Gujrat,
red & black labour Maharashtra, Karnataka,
Odisha
Tea 20º to 30ºC 150 to 300 cm fertile loamy cheap and Brahmputra and Surma
efficient valleys of Assam, Darjeling,
labour Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, Cooch
Behar and Nilgiri hills of
Tamil Nadu
Coffee 15º to 28ºC 150 to 250 cm loamy soil cheap and South Indian hills
efficient
labour
34 :: Learner Guide

Salient features of Indian Agriculture

Pressure of Dependence upon Predominance of

population on monsoon food crops
agriculture
Subsistence Mechanisation Variety Seasonal
agricuture of farming of corps patterns

Challanges before Indian Agriculture

Soil Impacts of Providing farmers

exhaustion globalisation food security suicide

High cost of Stagnation in Depletion of Adverse impact

farm inputs production of fresh groundwater of global climatic
major crops change

Evaluate Yourself
Q. What types of changes have you noticed in agriculture in recent years?
Q. What are the causes of these changes in crops in your opinion?
Q. Do you find any major challenges to agriculture in your area?
 TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

13 Transport and Self Awareness, Problem Solving, Judicious Use of

Communication Decision Marking, Effective Means of
Communication Communication

Meaning
Transport and Communication is the life line of the country. It is integral part of our life. The major role
of transport is to facilitate trade and commerce by carrying goods, movement of people from one place
to another. The communication keeps on updating information about the world’s events which is useful
for us. It helps in establishing the social, cultural and economic relationships. The means of transport is
given below :

Means of Transport

Land Water Air

Roadways Railways Oceanic Inland Domestic International

District National Coastal International Government Private

roads Highways shipping shipping

Village State
roads Highways Rivers Lakes/
Canal

Broad Meter Narrow

Gauge Gauge Gauge
36 :: Learner Guide

Classification of Roads

Based on Material Based on Constructing and

used for construction maintaining authority

Metalled Roads Unmetalled Roads

(Pucca) (Kachha)

Pradhan Mantri Zila Parishad State Public Natioanl Highway Border Road
Gram Sadak Works Department Authority of India Organization
Yojana (SPWD) (NHAI) (BRO)
(PMGSY)

District Roads State Highways National Highways Border Roads

(14% of total roads) (4% of total roads) (only 2% of
total roads)

Major Super National Highways Responsible factors for the

z Golden Quadrilateral- Connects Delhi- development of Railways
Mumbai-Chennai and Kolkata
z The construction of railways is very difficult
z North- South Corridor- Links Srinagar to and costly in mountainous regions, whereas
Kanyakumari it can be easily done in areas of flat surface.
z East- West Corridor- Joins from Silchar to z India has dense rail network in the northern
Porbander plain as compared to desert, hills, dense
Refer to maps in the text book. forest and flood prone areas.
z In the industrial regions and mining areas,
the railways network is more developed than
Principal points the less industrially development areas.
z Regions which are densely populated, are
Inland Waterways Authority of India has identify
well connected with rail networks.
three National Waterways
z Urban areas or metropolis have high density
z NW1 – River Ganga from Allahabad (U.P ) to of railway network due to employment,
Haldia (W.B) 1620 k.m. business, education, trade and banking etc.
z NW2 – River Brahamputra from Sadia to
Dhubri in Assam (891k.m.)
z NW3- From Kollam to Kotapuram stretch of
canal in Kerala (205k.m.)
 Learner Guide :: 37

Oceanic Waterways
India is surrounded on three sides by the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean with a coastline of
7516 km. Indian sea waterways have two types:-
z Coastal Shipping- The coastal shipping plays a great role in transporting passengers and cargo between
ports. There are 12 major ports and 189 small and medium size ports. See map in the text book.
z International Shipping- International Shipping is done from the west coast ports to the U.S.A and Europe
and West Asia while from the east coast ports to Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, China and Japan.

Air Transport Communication

Nowadays air transport is one of the important Communication is a system of carrying messages,
modes of transportation like land transport. India exchange thoughts, ideas and information and
has been operating both domestic and international also share your sorrows and pleasures with your
airways. See map in the text book. family members and friends and society in general.
There are various means of communication like
The high cost of travelling or transportation Letters, Radio, T.V, Newspaper, Magazines,
discourages the common man to use. In recent Telegram, Fax and E-Mails etc.
years, the use of air transport has rapidly increased.

Means of Communication

Means of Personal Means of Mass

communications Communications

Postal Telephone Radio Television Computer Newspaper

Services services technology magazine

Internet Video E-mail E-commerce Tele-

conferencing medicine

Evaluate Yourself
Q. Identify three national waterways as declared by National Waterways Authority of India.
Q. How does the new communication technology help us in our daily life? Explain with examples.
Q. Locate the following on the outline map of India:
z Golden Quadrilateral.
z Longest Railway Line
z National Waterways No. 1
z Ports located on West Coast
z Two international airports located in a state.
 POPULATION: OUR GREATEST RESOURCE

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

14 Population: Our Self Awareness, Critical Thinking, Small Family Norms

Greatest Resource Problem Solving, Effective Equal Consideration
Communication, Coping with Stress for Females

Meaning

The total number of human heads is considered to be the population of a country. It is counted every ten
years in India. Qualified, well developed, productive and healthy human head is the asset for the country.
This asset is really the greatest resource because resources are developed by human beings. Hence, a great
effort is needed to convert our huge population into a huge resource for the nation.
Many of the facilities, infrastructures like transport and communication, power, education, health
facilities, irrigation, mining, industries etc. are developed by mankind. All of them are the product of human
head and mind. They have made our life more comfortable in every respect. Therefore, to convert the
number of people into a qualified productive human resource, government has to invest a lot.

Population

Distribution of Density of Population Population

population populaton growth composition

Affecting factors
Age Sex Rural-urban Literacy
Socio-economic composition composition composition
Physical factors
factors

Relief Climate Soil Industrialization Transport and

Communication
Urbanization

Birth Death Migration Socio-

rate rate economic

Illiteracy Low level Unsatisfactory Poverty

of education health and
nutritional
level
 Learner Guide :: 39

Extend Your Horizon Evaluate Yourself

Population policies in India: India is the first Q. Calculate the density of population when the
country in the world to adopt population programme number of people of a district is 425000 and
in 1952 emphasising family planning. The aim of the area of the same district is 800 km2.
programme was to reduce birth rate.
National population policy 2000: The objective Number of people in
a defined area/unit
of economic and social development is to improve Density of Population =
Total area in square km
the quality of lives that people leads to enhance
of that particular area
their well-being and to provide the opportunities
and choices to become productive assets (resources) Q. Find out birth rate when total live birth in a
in the society. The long term target of this policy is year is 500 in an area and the midyear
to achieve a stable population by 2045 with population is 20,000 of the same area.
sustainable economic growth, social development
Q. Compute death rate when total deaths in a year
and environmental protection. Stable population
are 400 in an area and mid year populations is
emphasises the balance between birth rate and
20,000 of the same area.
death rate reading to zero population growth.
Women empowerment in India: It gives emphasis
in empowering the women and bringing them in
the mainstream of decision making at various
levels in their life starting from home, locality,
region, state or national level. The objectives is to
facilitate the advancement, development and
empowerment of women and to eliminate all forms
of discrimination. It will also ensure their active
participation in all spheres of life and activities.
 CONSTITUTIONAL VALUES AND POLITICAL SYSTEM IN INDIA

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

15 Constitutional Values Self Awareness, Decision Making, Understanding Political

and Political System Problem Solving System in India
in India

Meaning

Constitution is a legal document which determines the structure of the government and direction to which
society is to move on. A democratic constitution represents consensus among the people on certain rules,
principles, procedures and ideals and guides the social and political institutions.
Constitution means a set of fundamental principles and basic rules which identify, define and regulate the
various aspects of the state, its powers and functions. A Constitution provides rights and freedoms of the
individual citizens and also determines the relationship between the citizens and the State.

Importance of the Constitution z Constitutional and political changes that took

place during the British Rule.
z A Constitution contains basic or fundamental
z Thoughts and Ideas of the Mahatma Gandhi
laws of the land and establishes Rule of the Law.
z Democratic Constitutions of other Countries
z Constitution is considered supreme law. Any
of the world i.e. USA, UK, Canada, Australia,
decision or legislation which is not in
Ireland etc.
accordance with it, will be declared
unconstitutional or unlawful or void.
z Constitution lays down limits on the powers of Principal Points
the government and checks abuse of power
z Sovereignty: India is a Sovereign state which
and authority.
means that it has complete political freedom.
z Constitution is capable of fulfiling the changing It is free from any external interference and is
needs and aspirations of the people. a supreme authority internally also.
z Socialism: It implies that our Constitution and
the Indian state aim at promoting social
Sources of the Indian Constitution
transformation to end all forms of inequalities
Indian Constitution was prepared by a and particularly social and economic inequalities.
representative body, known as the Constituent z Secularism: India is a Secular Country. It is
Assembly. The making of Indian Constitution not guided by any one religion or religious
was greatly influenced by the following factors: consideration. The State does not promote
z Aspirations generated during the Freedom any religion but treats all religions equally.
Struggle.
 Learner Guide :: 41

z Democracy: Preamble of the Indian z Fundamental Rights and Duties- Fundamental

constitution starts with; “We the people of Rights protect individuals against the arbitrary
India….” It implies that India is Democracy and absolute exercise of power by the state.
and ultimate power lies with the people of They are justiceable or enforceable by the court.
India. People elect their representatives by a Fundamental Duties reflect some values like
system of universal adult franchise. patriotism, humanism, environmentalism,
scientific temper, inquiry etc., which citizens
z Republic: India is a republic because the
are expected to observe and promote:
President of India i.e. the Head of the Indian
State, is elected by the people from amongst z Directive Principles of State Policy - These
the people. are the directions given to the Central as well
as the state governments to ensure greater
z Justice: Constitution ensures socio-economic
socio- economic justice. These principles aim
and political justice to all the citizens to create at the establishment of a Welfare State.
a new social order based on socio-economic
z Integrated Judicial System-
equality.
z Liberty: Freedom of thought, expression,
belief, faith and worship.
z Equality: Equality of status and opportunities The
Supreme
z Fraternity: Promotes common brotherhood Court
among all people of India
z Dignity of Individual: Ensures equal High Courts
participation of every individual in all processes
of democratic governance. Subordinate Courts
z Unity and Integrity of the Nation: Value of
fraternity helps in strengthening the unity and z Single Citizenship: Unlike USA and other
integrity of the nation. federal countries, our Constitution has
z International Peace and Just International provision for single citizenship. Every Indian
Order : Constitution makers were aware of the is a citizen of India irrespective of residence or
fact that to ensure constitutional objectives, place of birth or the State in which he/she lives.
international peace and just international order
is essential. z Universal Adult Franchise: Every Indian
citizen of 18 years and above has Right to Vote
z Fundamental Duties : Citizens are expected
without any discrimination.
to observe Fundamental Duties, although these
duties are not enforceable in the court but they z Federal system: Two or more levels of the
do act as moral obligations. government; The Union Government, the State
Governments and the Local Self Governments.
The Constitution specifies division of powers
Salient Features of the between them.
Indian Constitution
z Parliamentary form of Government-
z Written Constitution- Constitution of India Executive is part of the legislature and it remains
is the longest written constitution in the world. responsible to the legislature for its actions.
z Rigidity and Flexibility- Rigidity ensures The President of India as Head of the State is
continuity and firmness in the political system nominal executive whereas Prime Minister
while flexibility helps in accommodating and Council of Ministers are the real executive
changing aspiration of the people. responsible to the Parliament.
42 :: Learner Guide

Federal system in India India: Federal System with

a strong centre
Constitution declares India a Union of States. It has
all characteristics which are required to establish a z Division of powers in favour of Central or
federal system in India. Characteristics of the Indian Union Government
federal system are as follows: z Unified and Integrated judiciary headed by the
z Two levels or two tiers of the Government Supreme Court
z Division of Powers between the Centre and the z Emergency Provisions- make Union
States – Government very powerful
(i) Union List - 97 subjects- Defence, z Governors of the States are appointed by the
Railways, Banking, Currency etc. Only President of India
Central Government can make laws on z States are financially dependent on the Central
these subjects. Government.
(ii) State List- 66 subjects, Law and Order, z Provision of All India Services.
Police, Local self Government etc. State
Governments make laws and administer
these subjects.
(iii) Concurrent List- 47 Subjects; Evaluate Yourself
Education, Forest, Electricity etc. Both Q. Explain the constitutional values mentioned in
Centre and State Governments can make the Preamble which give us dignity of existence
laws as a Nation in the International Community
Residuary Powers are those subjects which have Q. What is meant by secularism as a constitutional
not been enumerated in any of these lists; value?
z Written Constitution
Q. “India is federal in form but unitary in spirit”
z Independent judiciary and provision of Supreme Do you agree with the statement? Justify your
Court to settle federal disputes and interpret answer with suitable arguements.
the Constitution.
 FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS AND FUNDAMENTAL DUTIES

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

16 Fundamental Rights Self Awareness, Inter-Personal To Understand Our

and Fundamental Skills, Creative Thinking Fundamental Rights and
Duties Perform Our Fundamental
Duties

Meaning
In a Democratic Country like India certain basic and fundamental rights have been granted to every
citizen, but in many parts of the world people are still struggling for these rights. This lesson aims at
studying Fundamental Rights and Duties enshrined in the Constitution of India.
z Rights: Rights are the claims of the individual which are essential for the development of his/her
personality and are recognised by society and the state.
z Duties: Duty is something that someone is expected to do. The obligations that accompany rights are
in the form of duties.

Fundamental Rights
Rights which are recognised by the State and have been enshrined in the Constitution are called
Fundamental Rights. They are justiceable or enforceable by law. Following are the six Fundamental Rights
which are provided in the Part-III of the Indian Constitution.
1. Right to Equality 2. Right to Freedom 3. Right against
z Equality before law z Freedom of speech and express, Exploitation
z No discrimination on any basis z Freedom to assemble peacefully, Traffic in human
z Equality of opportunities z Freedom to form associaiton, beings, forced
z Eradication of untouchability z Freedom of movement, and residing anywhere, labour, employment
z Freedom to reside any part of the country of children below 14
z Abolition of titles.
z Freedom of occupation, trade or business. years have been
banned.
z Besides six freedoms this right safeguards over
individual liberty, life and personal liberty also.
It protects us from arbitrary arrests and detention.

4. Right to Freedom of 5. Cultural and 6. Right to Constitutional Remedies

Religion Educational Right It is the most important fundamental Right
India being a secular State, This Fundamental Right which empowers the individual to approach
every citizen is free in his/ protects the language, culture the court in case of any of the violation of
her religious affairs. and religion of the minority Fundamental Rights.
communities.
44 :: Learner Guide

Fundamental Rights as z To uphold Sovereignty, Unity and Integrity of

Human Rights India.
z Indian Constitution accepts many of the Human z To defend the country and render National
Rights as Fundamental Rights. Service.
z India is committed to protect Human Rights. z Develop scientific temper.
z For this purpose National Human Rights
Commission was founded in 1993.

Evaluate Yourself

Fundamental Duties Q. What are Fundamental Rights? Why are they

important?
z Ten Fundamental Duties were added in Part-
IV of the Constitution later on one more Q. Explain Right to Equality? How does it lead to
Fundamental Duty was added by Right to establishment of human dignity?
Education Act 2009. Q. Why is the Right to Constitutional Remedies
z Some Fundamental Duties are: to abide by the considered the most important of all the
Constitution and respect its ideals and Fundamental Rights?
institutions, National Flag and National
Anthem.
 INDIA- A WELFARE STATE

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

17 India- A Welfare State Empathy, Critical Thinking, Coping To Understand how India
with Emotion, Problem Solving is a Welfare State.

Meaning

India is described as a Welfare State. The question arises what a welfare State is? It is a concept of
government in which the State plays a key role in the protection and promotion of economic and social
well-being of its citizens. A Welfare State is based on the principles of equality of opportunity and equitable
distribution of wealth. Under this system, the welfare of citizens is the responsibility of the State.
The Constitution of India has extensive provisions to ensure social and economic welfare of the people
in the form of Fundamental Rights and the other as Directive Principles of State policy.
The Fundamental Rights act as a guarantee that all Indian citizens can and will enjoy civil liberties and
basic rights. These civil liberties take precedence over any other law of the land. Some of these important
rights are: equality before law, freedom of speech and expression, freedom to form associations and
peaceful assembly, freedom of religion and the right to constitutional remedies for the protection of all
these civil rights.

Directive Principles of State Policy Important Characteristics

of Directive Principles
The founding fathers of the Constitution were
aware that even if all the Fundamental Rights are z Inclusion of Directive Principles in the
truly enforced, the goals of Indian Democracy Constitution was inspired by the Constitution
would not be realised unless the people of India of Ireland and the Gandhian Philosophy.
could avail of social and economic rights. This z These are guidelines for the State and are non-
was done by including a separate chapter as Part justiceable
IV known as the Directive Principle of State
z The aim of these principles is to create such
Policy.
conditions where all citizens should be able to
lead a good life.
z These principles are meant to establish social
and economic democracy.
46 :: Learner Guide

Types of Directive Principles

The Directive Principles stated in the Constitution are of different types and may be classified under the
following specific categories:
z Principles promoting social and economic equality:
The State should ensure
(i) adequate means of livelihood
(ii) fair distribution of material resources
(iii) equal pay for equal work for both men and women
(iv) free and compulsory education to children upto the age of 14 years
(v) protection of children, men and women against exploitation.
z Gandhian Principles: To promote a non-violent social order, welfare of all and prohibition of
intoxicating drinks and drugs.
z Principles related to International Peace and Security: These principles seek to have good relations
with the neighbouring countries and to solve the international disputes through negotiations or
peaceful means.
z Miscellaneous Principles : These principles includes (i) protection of historical monuments
(ii) safeguard the forests and wildlife (iii) uniform civil code for all citizens.

Relation between Directive Implementation of Directive

Principles of State Policy and Principles of State policy
Fundamental Rights “Sarva Siksha Abhiyan”, a massive programme
of Central Government is being implemented in
The Directive Principles aim at establishing a
all the States. Similarly “Right to Education Act
Welfare State. The aim of Fundamental Rights is
2009” passed by the Indian Parliament is another
also the same; but there are some basic differences
serious effort being made to implement the
between the two. First Directive Principles are
Directive Principles of State Policy.
Non- Justiciable while Fundamental Rights are
Justiciable and enforceable. Second, these Equal pay for equal work has been ensured,
Principles are only guidelines, instructions or Panchayati Raj has been given constitutional
directions for the State to frame policies and to status.
implement them as a step towards realising the
goals of a Welfare State. Fundamental Rights have The Central and State Governments have been
been ensured by the Constitution and the State is implementing these Directive Principles, but much
bound to protect the rights of all its citizens. more needs to be done to realise the goals of a
Directive Principles are different from Fundamental Welfare State.
Rights; but both are complementary to each other.

Evaluate Yourself
Q. What is the purpose of Directive Principles of State Policy?
Q. How are Directive Principles of State Policy different from Fundamental Rights? Explain.
Q. Describe any three Directive Principles of State Policy which have been implemented by the Government.
 LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND FIELD ADMINISTRATION

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

18 Local Governments Self Awareness, Problem Solving, To Understand the System

and Field Empathy of Local Governance and
Administration Administration

Meaning
Local Government is a government of the local people. Being located nearest to the local people, local
government institutions are under constant observation of the society. It is said that Local Government
provides services to the individual from “cradle to the grave.”
The Government of India has empowered the institutions by 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment
Acts 1992, so that they may work for the welfare of the local people in a more effective manner.

Rural and Urban Local Government Gram Panchayat

The system of rural Local Government is known The Organization, Functions and Sources of
as ‘Panchayati Raj System’ and includes Village Funds of Gram Panchayats
Panchayat (Gram Panchayat), Panchayat or Block a. Organisation : Village panchayat also called
Samiti and Zila Parishad. The urban local gram panchayat is the grass root institution of
government also has three kinds of institutional the Panchayati Raj System. At the village level
arrangement in different cities and towns known there is a Gram Panchayat having a chairperson
as Municipal Corporations, Municipal Councils known as Gram Pradhan or Sarpanch (Mukhia),
and Nagar Panchayats. a Vice-Chairman and some panches. The
village panchayat or gram panchayat is the
Panchayati Raj System Executive of Gram Sabha. All members of
each Gram Sabha are voters who elect the
The founding fathers of the Constitution made members of the Gram Panchayat by a secret
provisions for Panchayati Raj system under the ballot. In most of the States, a Village Panchyat
Directive Principles of State policy. The Balwant has 5 to 9 members, 1/3 seats are reserved for
Rai Mehta Committee recommended the women. Provision of reservation for SCs and
establishment of a three- tier Panchyati Raj system: STs is also there.
Gram Panchayats at village level, Panchayat Samiti
at block level and Zila Parishad at the District
level. However, it was the 73rd Constitutional
Amendment 1992 that provided the present shape
to the Panchyati Raj System.
48 :: Learner Guide

b. Functions of Gram Panchyats : With a view Zila Parishad

to public needs and requirements of villages
The Organisation and Functions of Zila Parishad
every Gram Panchayat has to work for
a. Composition : Zila Parishad is the apex body
provision of safe drinking water, paving of
being the third tier of Panchayati Raj System. It
streets, ensuring cleanliness of the village,
is situated at the District level. It also has a term
upkeep of street light, developing and
of 5 years. Some of its members are directly
maintaining good drainage system, plantation elected and chairpersons of Panchayat Samities
of trees, setting up and running the library or are ex-officio members of Zila Parishad.
reading room and insemination centers for Chairperson of Zila Parishad is elected from
cattle and dispensary etc. the directly elected members. Not less than 1/
c. Sources of Income of Gram Panchayats: 3rd of the seats are reserved for women
Taxes on property, land, goods and cattle, rent members. Seats are also reserved for Scheduled
collected on property of Panchayat, various Caste and Scheduled Tribes.
types of fines imposed by Gram Panchayats b. Functions of the Zila Parishad : Providing of
and grant-in-aid received from State and Union essential services and facilities to the rural
Government etc. population, planning and executing the
developmental programmes for the district.
Supplying improved seeds to the farmers,
Panchyat Samiti undertaking construction of small-scale
irrigation projects, maintaining pastures and
The Organisation and Functions of Panchyat executing programmes for literacy, running
Samiti libraries, conducting vaccination drives against
a. Composition : Panchyat or Block Samiti is the epidemics and welfare campaigns, encourage
middle tier of Panchayati Raj System and is entrepreneurs to setup small scale industries
constituted by- like cottage industries, handicrafts, agriculture
products processing, mills, dairy farms etc. and
All the Surpanches (Mukhias) of Gram implementing rural employment schemes.
Panchayats lying in that block area; MPs, MLAs
c. Sources of Income of Zila Parishad :
and MLCs of that Block; directly elected
Income from taxes levied by Zila Parishad,
members, elected members of Zila Parishad of
license fees and market fees; share from the
that Block and some officers of that Block
collected land revenue; income from various
(Ex–officio members)
properties of Zila Parishad; Grants from State
b. Functions of Panchyat Samiti : Some and Central Governments; and Funds allocated
important functions are agriculture, land by the State for Developmental activities.
improvement, watershed development, social
and farm forestry, primary, technical and Urban Local Government
vocational education. Besides these functions
it implements certain schemes and programmes The 74th Constitutional Amendment 1992 brought
for which specific fund or grant-in-aid is about major changes in the system of urban local
allocated by the State Government or Central government. Now three types of urban local
Government. government are functioning : (a) Municipal
Corporations for big cities, (b) Municipal Councils
c. Sources of Income : Grants given by
for small cities and (c) Nagar Panchayat for those
government, taxes, and also receives a fixed areas that are in transition from rural areas to urban
percentage of land revenue. areas.
 Learner Guide :: 49

Municipal Corporations Municipal Councils

a. Composition : Municipal Corporations are a. Composition : Small cities have Municipal
established in big cities. The councillors or Councils. Every Municipal Council has
municipal corporators are elected for a fixed councillors who are elected by the voters of the
period of 5 years. The elected councillors concerned city for 5 years. Chairperson or
elect one of them as Mayor annually. The President of the Municipal Council is elected
Mayor is known as the first citizen of the city. by the councillors. Every Municipal Councils
Not less than 1/3rd of the total seats are has one Executive officer appointed by the
reserved for women. There is also a provision State Government. The Health Officer, Tax
of reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes, superintendent, Civil Engineer are some other
Scheduled Tribes. important officers.
b. There is an official post of Municipal b. Functions of the Municipal Councils : (i)
Commissioner, who is the Chief Executive Health and sanitations (ii) Electricity and water
Officer of the Municipal Corporation and is supply, (iii) Primary Education, (iv)
appointed by State Government. In case of Maintenance of Birth and Death Records, and
Union Territory like Delhi, he/she is appointed (v) Public works.
by the Central Government.
c. Sources of Income : The main sources of
b. Functions of Municipal Corporations : (i) Income of Municipal Councils are:
Health & Sanitation (ii) Electricity and Water
Supply (iii) Education (iv) Public works and Taxes on properties, vehicles, entertainment
(v) Miscellaneous functions such as and advertisement, rents, fees, and charges –
maintaining record of Birth and Deaths etc. water supply charges, electricity charges, sewer
c. Sources of Income of Municipal Corpora- charges, License Fees, Rents of property-shops,
tions: Income from taxes, license fees and community halls etc. Grants from State
water supply charges, electricity charges, sewer Government, and fines collected from tax
charges, toll-tax and octroi duty, (ii) Grants-in- evaders, law breakers, on encroachment etc.
aid from State and Union Government and (iii)
Income from rent from its properties

Nagar Panchayats
a. Composition : Every urban centre with more than 30,000 and less than 100,000 inhabitants has a Nagar
Panchayat. It is composed of a chairperson and ward members. It may have a body of ten elected ward
members and three nominated members.
b. Functions : Nagar Panchayat is responsible for (a) Cleanliness and disposal of garbage; (b) Supply of
drinking water. (c) Maintenance of public conveniences; (d) Setting up and maintaining Fire Services
and (e) Registration of Births and Deaths.
c. Sources of Income : House Tax, Water Tax, Toll Tax; License Fees and Fee for approving building
plans, Rents collected from Community Centers, Barat-ghars and other properties like shops etc. and
grant-in-aid from State government.
50 :: Learner Guide

District Administration
z District Collector or Deputy Commissioner or District Magistrate
District Administration is headed by District Collector/ Deputy Commissioner/ District Magistrate.
Other important officials of District Administration are Superintendent of Police, District Education
Officer, Civil Surgeon or District Health Officer, District Agriculture Officer, Sub-Divisional Officer
and Block Development Officer etc. The main function of District Magistrate is to maintain law and
order and ensure peace.

z Sub-Divisional Officer z Block Development Officer

The Sub- Divisional Officer assists the The Block Development Officer is linked
District Magistrate in the field of with middle tier of Panchayati Raj as he/she
administration and also works as his /her is the ex-officio Secretary or the Executive
representative. He/She keeps and maintains officer of Panchayat Samiti and keeps the
land records and collects land revenue and record of its meeting, prepare budget and co-
has the power to issue certificates regarding ordinates various development activities.
Domicile, Schedule castes/Scheduled tribes
and other Backward classes.

Evaluate Yourself
Q. What is the impact of 73rd; Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 on the Panchayati Raj System?
Q. What is the impact of 74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992?
Q. Discuss briefly the main functions of a Municipal Council.
 GOVERNANCE AT THE STATE LEVEL

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

19 Governance at the Critical Thinking, Decision Making, To Understand of the Composi-

State Level Effective Communication tion and Functions of Legislature,
Executive and Judiciary, and
Found at the State Level

Meaning
India is a Federation having governments at two levels i.e. State level and Union or Central level. The three
branches of government- executive, legislature and judiciary exist and function at both the levels.
India has a parliamentary form of democracy both at the State as well at the Union level. In this system,
the executive powers of the State are vested in the Governor by the Constitution. The head of the State
is Governor but he/she acts as a nominal head. The real executive powers are exercised by the Council
of Ministers headed by a Chief Minister.

Governance at the State Level Powers of the Governor

The powers of the Governor are as under -
Governor and Legislature High Court & (i) Executive Power - He/she appoints the chief
the Council of Governor the Minister and other members of the council of
Minister headed Vidhan Sabha Subordiante ministers. He/she appoints the Advocate
by the Chief Vidhan Courts General, Chairman and members of the State
Minister. Parishad Public Service Commission and also the
judges of the subordinate courts.
(ii) Legislative Powers - Governor is the part of
Appointment of the Governor
the state legislature. He/she can address the
Governor : The Governor of a State is appointed session of the assembly and or joint session
by the President of India for a term of 5 years. of both the houses. No bill can become law
without his/her consent.
The Governor holds his/her office during pleasure
of the President which means that the Governor (iii) Financial Power: No money bill can be
may be removed by the President even before the introduced in the State Legislature Assembly
expiry of his/her term. He/She may resign earlier. without the prior permission of the Governor.
The annual budget is introduced in his/her
name.
52 :: Learner Guide

(iv) Discretionary Powers: If no political party Functions of the Chief Minister

wins majority, then Governor uses his and Council of Ministers
discretionary power to invite a person to be Chief Minister is the real Head of the Government
the Chief Minister. He/she is a link between in the State. The functions of the Chief Minister are:
State and the Centre. He is the representative
of the Union Government. z Presides over the meetings of the State Council
of Ministers and coordinates the functioning
of different ministers;
Relationship between the Governor z Guides the framing of the policies and
and the Council of Ministers programmes for the State;
z The State executive consists of the Governor, z Is the sole link of communication between the
the Chief Minister and the Council of Ministers. Council of Ministers and the Governor;
The Governor exercises all his/her powers on z Submits any matter on which decision has
the advice of the Council of Ministers. been taken by a Minister for consideration of
z The Chief Minister is appointed by him/her the Council of Ministers.
provided he/she is the leader of the majority
party in the legislative Assembly.
z The Chief Minister communicates to the Position of the Chief Minister
Governor all the decisions of the Council of He is the real executive head of the State. It is he/
Ministers. she who formulates the policies and guides the
z The real powers are exercised by the Council of Council of Ministers. If his/her political party has
Ministers headed by the Chief Minister. an absolute majority in the legislative Assembly
However, the Governor is not just a he/she becomes the most powerful functionary.
constitutional or nominal head. He/She can However, while working with a coalition
exercise his/her powers effectively under certain government his/her role gets restricted. The
circumstances, especially when there is political partners force her/him to fulfill their wishes.
instability in the State. Hence, the discretionary
powers make the Governor to act as a real
Executive in particular circumtances. State Legislature
In India every State has its own legislature. They
The Chief Minister and the are of two kinds i.e. bicameral and unicameral.
Council of Ministers Bicameral legislature has two houses - lower house
The Council of Ministers with the Chief Minister as and the upper house. In a unicameral legislature
its head functions as the real Executive. The Chief the house is known as legislative assembly or
Minister and other members of the Council of Vidhan Sabha whereas in the bicameral legislature
Ministers are appointed by the Governor. Their term the two houses are known as legislative assembly
of office is for five years. They remain in office till and legislative council i.e. Vidhan Sabha and
they enjoy the support of the majority in theAssembly. Vidhan Parishad. At present, only five States i.e.
If a person who is appointed as the Chief Minister or Bihar, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Maharashtra
a Minister, is not a member of the State Legislature, and Uttar Pradesh have bicameral legislatures and
he/she has to become member of any of the two the remaining 23 States have unicameral
houses within six months of his/her appointment. legislatures.
 Learner Guide :: 53

Composition of State Legislature

According to the Indian Constitution, no Legislative Assembly shall have more than 500 members and less than
60 members. However, very small States like Goa, Sikkim and Mizoram have been allowed to have less than
60 members. Seats are reserved for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in the Legislative Assembly.
The members of Legislative Assembly are directly elected on the principle of universal adult franchise.
The tenure of the Vidhan Sabha is of five years. However, the Governor may dissolve the Assembly earlier on
the advice of the Chief Minister. During emergency the term of legislative assemblies can be extended for a
period not exceeding one year at a time.
The Legislative Council or Vidhan Parishad shall not have more than one third of the total membership of the
State Legislative Assembly but not less than 40. The Legislative Council in Jammu & Kashmir has 36 members
as an exception. The members of the Legislative Council are partly elected indirectly and partly nominated.

Composition of the Legislative Function of the State Legislature

Council
z Legislative Function
z One-third members are elected by the members z State legislature makes laws on the subjects
of local bodies such as municipalities; mentioned in the state list.
z Another one-third members are elected by the z Ordinary bills can be introduced in either of
members of the Legislative Assembly; the house and money bills can be introduced
z One-twelfth members are elected by the only in Legislative Assembly.
electorate consisting of graduates of the State z Control over the Executive
of not less than three years standing; The state legislature keeps control over the
z Another one-twelfth are elected by the electorate executive by asking questions, supplementary
questions, adjornment motions, calls attention
consisting of teachers having three years
motion and no confidence motion.
experience not lower than secondary schools;
z Electoral Functions
z The remaining one-sixth members are
The elected members of Vidhan Sabha elect the
nominated by the Governor of the State.
members of Rajya Sabha. Participate and vote
z Members of legislative council are elected/ for the election of President of India.
nominated for 6 years. One third of its members z Functions related to Constitutional
retire after every two years. Amendment
z The Vidhan Parishad is a permanent house. For amending some special provisions of the
Unlike Legislative Assembly, it cannot be constitution, ratification by not less than half
dissolved. of the State Legislature is required.

High Court and the Subordinate Courts

In India, there has to be a High Court for every State. However, if need be a High Court may have more
than one State under its jurisdiction. As an exception we find that the Guwahati High court acts as a common
High Court for the States of Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Tripura.
Similarly, the Union Territories come under the jurisdiction of the High Court of the neighbouring States.
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Organisation of the High Court

Each High Court has a Chief Justice and Judges. The Chief Justice and Judges of High Courts are appointed
by the President. For appointment of the Chief Justice of the High Court, the President consults the Chief
Justice of Supreme Court, whereas for the Judges, he/she consults the Chief Justice of the concerned High
Court. and the Governor of the concerned State.
Judges can be transferred from one High Court to the other by the President on the advice of the Chief
Justice of India. While appointing a Judge of a High Court, the person concerned should possess the
following qualifications. He/She: should be a citizen of India; should have held a judicial office in the
territory of India for at least 10 years; or should have been an advocate in one or more High Courts for at
least ten years continuously without break.
The Judges of High Court hold office till they attain the age of 62 years. Judge can be removed from office
through an impeachment process by parliament on grounds of proved misbehavior or incapacity.

Jurisdiction of High Court Subordinate or Lower Courts

z The High Court has original and appellate Subordinate Courts
jurisdictions.
z The High Court exercises original jurisdiction Civil Courts Criminal Courts Revenue Courts
for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights
and other legal rights. Civil Cases: These cases pertain to disputes
z High Courts hear appeals against the judgments between two or more persons regarding property,
of the subordinate courts. breach of agreement or contract, divorce or disputes
z In civil cases, an appeal may be filed before the between landlords and tenants.
High Court against the judgment of a District Criminal Cases: These cases relate to theft,
Judge. robbery, rape, pick-pocketing, physical assault,
z In criminal matters, appeal may be made before murder etc. These cases are filed in the criminal
a High Court against the judgment of a Sessions courts by the police, on behalf of the State.
Court, where the sentence of imprisonment Revenue Courts Board of Revenue exists at the
exceeds seven years. State level, Under it are the Courts of Commissioner,
z The High Court is a Court of Record. All the Collectors, Tehsildars and Assistant Tehsildars.
subordinate courts follow the judgments of the The Board of Revenue hears the final appeals
High Court. against all the lower revenue courts under it.
z High Courts may also punish for contempt or
disrespect of the Court.

Evaluate Yourself
Q. Highlight any two discritionary powers of the Governor.
Q. “The Chief Minister and the Council of Minister sink and swim together.” Do you agree? Support your
answer with any two suitable agruments.
Q. Explain the organisation and jurisdiction of the High Court of a State.
 GOVERNANCE AT THE UNION LEVEL

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

20 Governance at the Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, To Understand the

Union Level Effective Communication, Self Governance at the Central
Awareness Level

Meaning
The Constitution of India has made alternate provision for the structure and functioning of all the three
branches of the government i.e. executive, legislature and judiciary, The President, the Council of
Ministers with Prime Minister constitute the executive branch of the Government, the Parliament with its
two houses- House of the People or Lok Sabha and Council of States i.e. Rajya Sabha is the legislative
branch and the Supreme Court heads the judicial branch.

THE UNION GOVERNMENT Powers of the President

The President is Head of the State. It is the highest
EXECUTIVE LEGISLATURE JUDICIARY public office in the country. All executive actions
President President The Supreme of the government of India are carried out in his/
The Prime Lok Sabha Court her name. Following are the powers of the President:
Minister Chief Justice z Executive Powers : President of India has the
Rajya Sabha power to appoint Prime Minister, Council of
The Council of The Judges Ministers, the Attorney General of India, the
Minister Comptroller and the Auditor General of India,
Chief justice of Supreme court and other
The President judges, heads of the three wings of forces etc.
z Legislative power : President is part of the
In the Preamble of Indian Constitution it has been Parliament. He/she summons and prorogue
said that India is a Sovereign, Democratic, the sessions of the Parliament. No bill can
Socialist, Secular, Republic. A Republic is a become law without his/her consent. He/she
government where the head of the State is an can issue an Ordinance.
elected person. He/She is indirectly elected by an z Financial powers : No Money Bill can be
electoral college which consists of the elected introduced in Lok Sabha without his/her
members of both the houses of Parliament as well consent. Annual Budget is introduced on his/
as State Legislative Assemblies including Union her recommendation. Appoints Finance
Territories of Delhi and Pudduchery (earlier known Commission after every five years.
as Pondichery). The voting is by secret ballot. He/ z Judicial Power: President of India has the
She is elected according to the system of powers to grant pardon or to reduce the
proportional representation by means of single punishment of a convict.
transferable vote.
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Position of the President Functions of the Prime Minister

z According to the Constitution of India all z President exercises his/her powers on the aid
executive powers vest in the President. and advice of the Council of Ministers with the
Moreover, he/she has extensive emergency Prime Minister as the head, and that advice will
powers. be binding.
z Does this mean that the President is all
powerful? z It is on his/her recommendations that the President
z In parliamentary system the President is a appoints the members of the Council of Ministers
Nominal Executive or a Constitutional Head and distributes portfolios among them.
of the State. z He/She presides over the meetings of the
Cabinet.
The Prime Minister z He/She acts as the link between the President
The Prime Minister is the most important functionary and the Council of Ministers.
at the Central Government. In the Constitution of z He/she is the leader not only of Parliament but
India, it has been mentioned that there shall be a also of the Nation.
Council of Ministers with the Prime Minister at the z He/she is Ex-officio Chairman of the Planning
Head to aid and advice the President who shall act Commission and of the National Development
according to that advice. The Prime Minister is the Council.
real head of the Union Government. The Union Council of Ministers
z The Prime Minster is appointed by the President, z The Ministers are appointed by the President
but the President has to invite only that person on the recommendations of the Prime Minster.
to be the Prime Minister, who is the leader of the z The Council of Ministers has three categories
majority party or coalition in the Lok Sabha. of Ministers – Cabinet Ministers, Ministers of
z With the initiation of the phase of coalitions, State and Deputy Ministers.
he/she may be the leader of a group of more z Ministers are responsible collectively as well
than one political party. as individually to the Lok Sabha.
z In the changed situation, the President may z The Council of Ministers swim and sink
invite the person who is the leader elected by together.
the political party that has the largest number
z The decision of the cabinet or council of
of seats in the Lok Sabha
ministrers are kept secret.
z He/she must be a member either of Lok Sabha
z The cabinet meeting is attended by cabinet
or Rajya Sabha
ministers, however, if need be, Minister of state
z If he/she is not a member of any house, he/she may also be invited to attend such meetings.
has to acquire it within six months from the
date of his/her appointment as PM.

Position of the Prime Minister

Prime Minister occupies a key position in the Union government.
z He/She is the ‘principal spokesperson’ and defender of the policies of the government in the Parliament.
z All international agreements and treaties with other countries are concluded with the consent of the Prime
Minister.
z The experience of coalition governments during the last 10 years has shown that the Prime minister
should not only be accomodative but vigilant and diplomatic also.
z He/she should prove that he/she is the pivot around which the Government machinery revolves.
 Learner Guide :: 57

The President and Emergency Provisions

The above mentioned powers are exercised by the President during normal times. However, he/she has
important powers that are exercised during abnormal situations. These are known as emergency powers.
The Constitution has made provisions for these powers to meet three specific extraordinary or abnormal
situations arising in the country. These are:
(i) war or external aggression or armed rebellion (Article 352); National Emergency
(ii) failure of the constitutional machinery in any State (Article 356; President’s Rule in the State
(iii) deep financial crisis (Article 360); Financial Emergency

The Union Parliament

The legislative branch of the Union Government is called the Parliament which consists of the President
and the two houses known as the House of the People (Lok Sabha) and the Council of States (Rajya Sabha).
The House of the People is the lower house and the Council of States is the upper house.

COMPOSITION
Lok Sabha
The members of the Lok Sabha are directly elected by the people of India. The number of its members
cannot exceed 550. Out of these, 530 are directly elected by the people of the States, and the remaining 20
members are elected from the Union Territories. All the citizens who are 18 years of age and above have
the right to vote. If the Anglo-Indian Community is not represented, the President can nominate two
persons of this community as members.

Rajya Sabha
The maximum number of members of this house cannot exceed 250. Out of these, 238 members represent
the States and Union Territories and 12 members are nominated by the President of India. These nominated
members are distinguished persons in the field of literature, art, science and social service. The elected
members of Rajya Sabha are elected by the State Legislative Assemblies, according to the system of
proportional representation the method of single transferable vote.
The tenure of Lok Sabha is 5 years where as that of member of Rajya Sabha is 6 years. 1/3 members of
Rajya Sabha retire every two years and new members are elected. The retiring members can be re-elected.
It is a permanent house.
58 :: Learner Guide

Functions of the Parliament Comparative Position of Both

the Houses of the Parliament
The Parliament is the supreme legislative body. It
performs different kinds of functions. These are: In a bicameral parliamentary system the lower
Legislative Functions house always plays a more important role than the
upper house. In India also Lok Sabha is more
z Parliament is a law making body. It legislates
powerful than Rajya Sabba. It is through a
on the subjects mentioned in the Union List
comparative study that we can assess which house
and the Concurrent List.
is more effective and powerful.
Executive Functions z Lok Sabha is directly elected i.e. true
z Council of Ministers is the real executive representative of the people of India. On the
which implements different laws and policies other hand Rajya Sabha is indirectly elected.
of the government. z Lok Sabha is elected for a definite period i.e. 5
Financial Functions years where as Rajya Sabha is a permanent body.
z In case of an ordinary bill, both the Houses
z The Parliament is the custodian of the public
have equal powers. However, in case of a
money. It controls the entire purse of the
conflict between the two, Lok Sabha with 550
Union government.
members has an upper hand.
z The Parliament may pass, reduce or reject the z As regards the control over the Council of
demands for grants presented to it by the Ministers, Lok Sabha is more effective. Lok
government. Sabha through the vote of ‘no confidence’ can
z No taxes can be collected and no expenditure dislodge the Council of Ministers. Rajya Sabha
can be made without the approval of the can check Council of Ministers through
Parliament. questions and adopting various motions.
Judicial Functions z Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have almost similar
powers in relation to election of President and
The Parliament is empowered to prescribe the Vice President, impeachment or removal of
number of Judges of the Supreme Court by law. the President, Vice President, Chief Justic and
It is also authorised to establish a common High Judges of Supreme Court and Hight Court.
Court for two or more States; or even to constitute z So far as the financial matters are concerned,
a High Court even for a Union Territory. Lok Sabha again has an upper hand. Rajya
Sabha can only delay the passage of money bill
Miscellaneous Functions or can only debate on the Annual Budget. But
(i) The Parliament has the power to remove the it cannot stop it from becoming law.
President and the Vice President by a special z Rajya Sabha may create a new All India Service
majority of votes. (This process is called or declare a subject of the State list to be of
Impeachment) national importance consequently transferring
it to Union List.
(ii) It has the power to amend the Constitution
 Learner Guide :: 59

The Supreme Court

India has a unified judiciary, wherein the Supreme Court is the Apex Court.

The Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court

Original Jurisdiction Appellate Jurisdiction Advisory Jurisdiction

The Supreme Court has the z The power of a superior z The Supreme Court has a special
authority to hear directly certain or higher court to hear and advisory jurisdiction in matters
cases. These are like the: decide appeals against the which may specifically be referred
(a) Disputes between the Union judgment of the lower to it by the President of India.
Government and one or more court is called appellate z The Supreme Court is a court of
State Governments. jurisdiction. The Supreme record. The records of the Supreme
(b) Disputes between two or Court is a court of appeal Court, in matters of interpretation
more States. for constitutional, civil of the law or of the Constitution,
and criminal cases. have to be accepted when produced
before the lower courts.

Guardian of the Constitution Judicial Review

z As the interpreter of the Constitution, the The Supreme Court of India has the power to
Supreme Court has the power to protect and examine the validity of laws or executive orders.
defend the Constitution. The Supreme Court has the powers to interpret
z If any law or executive order is against the the Constitution, and through this it has assumed
Constitution, the same can be declared the power of ‘Judicial Review’.
unconstitutional or invalid by the Supreme
Court..

Judicial Activism and Public Interest Litigation

‘Judicial Activism’ has been defined as ‘innovative interpretation’ of the Constitution. In India it has
enjoyed support from the public, because it has concentrated on giving the disadvantaged the access to
justice. Public Interest Litigation has often been used on behalf of people who are poor or disadvantaged
and do not have the means to approach the Court. With Judicial Activism and PIL, courts have given
judgments on pollution, the need for a Uniform Civil Code, eviction of unauthorised buildings, stopping
child labour in dangerous occupations, and on any other issues.

Evaluate Yourself
Q. What are the executive powers of the President of India?
Q. List any four major functions of the Indian Parliament.
Q. Rajya Sabha is not only a second chamber but a secondary chamber also” Do you agree? Give any three
arguments in support of your answer.
 POLITICAL PARTIES AND PRESSURE GROUPS

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

21 Political Parties and Self Awareness, Empathy, To Understand the Meaning,

Pressure Groups International Relationship, Problem Need and Importance of
Solving, Effective Communication, Political Parties and Pressure
Team Spirit Groups

Meaning
A political party is an organised group of citizens who have similar political views and who by acting as
a unit try to control the government to translate their policies into practice.
A political party is an organised and large group of people with common goals and common principles.
Its main aim is to get the political power and form the government.

Functions
z Parties nominate candidates to contest elections.
z They campaign to get support for their party candidates, policies and programmes.
z Form the government if in majority and act as opposition if not in majority.

Party System in India

In India we have a multiparty system. It means there are more than two political parties. There are countries
where only one party system or two party system exists.
In India, there are two types of political parties :
z The National Political Parties have influence over most part of India. The status of National Parties
is given to those parties which obtains 4% of the vote polled in at least four states. Indian National
Congress, Bhartiya Janta Party, Communist Party of India, Communist Party of India(Marxist) ;
Bahujan Samaj Party, Nationalist Congress Party are the National Parties.
z The Regional Political Parties: Such parties are also recognised by the Election Commission of India.
Some of the regional parties in India are Forward Bloc (West Bengal); All India Anna Dravida Mannetra
Kazhagam (Tamil Nadu), National Conference (Jammu and Kashmir), Rashtriya Janta Dal (Bihar),
Samajvadi Party (Uttar Pradesh), Shiromani Akali Dal (Punjab) etc.
 Learner Guide :: 61

Policies of different Political Parties

z The Indian National Congress: The Congress Party is committed to democracy, secularism and
socialism. It permits a measure of privatisation, liberalisation and globalisation; works for the welfare
of the society, seeks to strengthen grass roots institutions of the local level.
z Bhartiya Janta Party: It stands for nationalism and national integration, democracy, positive
secularism, Gandhian socialism and value based politics.
z The Communist Party of India and the CPI (M) stand for socialism, socialist ownership of
industries, agrarian reforms, rural upliftment and self reliant economy.
z Bahujan Samaj Party: Formed in 1984 is a party of deprived Sections of the Indian Society,
especially the poor, the landless, the unemployed and the Dalits. It draws inspiration from the teachings
of Sahuji Maharaj, Jyotiba Phule, Ramaswami Naicker and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

Pressure Groups and Interest Groups

Interest Groups are organised groups of people who seek to attain protect and promote their interests for
which they are united.
Generally, interest groups and pressure groups are considered synonyms but they are not so. A pressure
group is an interest group which exerts pressure on the government to get their interest fulfilled. Some
of the pressure groups are : Arya Pratinidhi Sabha, Sanatan Dharam Sabha, Brahmin Sabha, Kissan Sabha,
All Indian Trade Union. Unlike pressure groups or interest groups, political parties contest elections to
seek power to spread their political ideologies.

Evaluate Yourself
Q. Define a political party. Name any two national and two regional political parties of India.
Q. Why are political parties needed?
Q. How does a politcal party differ from a pressure group or an interest group?
 PEOPLE’S PARTICIPATION IN THE DEMOCRATIC PROCESS

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

22 People’s Participation Self Awareness, Participation, Understanding Democratic

in the Democratic Decision Making, Problem Process
Process Solving

Meaning
In a Democracy people’s participation is very important. People, participate to elect their representatives
by voting in elections. Discussing the working of the government, public debates, newspaper’s editorials,
protest demonstrations, public meetings working for a political party and standing as a candidate are all
examples of people’s participation.
The Meaning of ‘Public Opinion’
It is not the unanimous opinion of the people nor it is the opinion of majority. It is an organised and well-
considered opinion of the people on any issue of public interest. Public opinion has following characteristics
z It is an aggregate of views
z It is based on reason
z It aims at the welfare of the whole community
z It influences the decisions of the government, functioning of political parties and running of
administration.

Importance of public opinion Various agencies to form

Public opinion plays a very important role in a and express the opinion
democratic system as explained below z Print Media
z An alert and free ‘public opinion’ is a check on z Electronic Media
absolute power of the government
z Political Parties
z It motivates the government to be responsive
z Legislatures
to the needs and aspirations of the people.
z Educational Institutions
z Public opinion influences the government to
make laws in the interest of the people z Elections
z It strengthens democratic values and norms
z It protects rights, freedom and liberty.
 Learner Guide :: 63

Importance of Elections
Elections facilitate peaceful transfer of power from one political party or one group of political parties to
another.
Type of Elections
In India, we have direct and indirect elections.
z Direct elections: People poll directly through their ballot to elect their representatives to various
legislative bodies. Such elections are for Lok Sabha, Vidhan Sabha and Local Government bodies.
z Indirect elections: Elected representatives of the people vote to elect persons for certain positions.
z The President of India, the Vice President of India and members of Rajya Sabha are elected through
this method. Elections in India are divided in three categories:
(i) General Election
(ii) Mid-term Election
(iii) Bye Election

Election Commision of India

In India, the task of conducting elections has been Important Election Officials
entrusted to an impartial constitutional authority z Returning officer: In every constituency, one
known as the Election Commission of India. It is a officer is designated as returning officer. He/she
constitutional body. At present Election Commission receives the nomination papers of candidates
has one Chief Election Commissioner and two other and scrutinises them, allots election symbols to
Election Commissioners, who are appointed by the the candidates, conducts the election in the
President of India. constituency, ensures counting of votes, declares
the results of the election.
Functions of the Election Commission
z Presiding officer: He/she is the inchrage of one
z Ensures free and fair elections,
polling booth. He/she ensures that every voter
z Prepares the electoral rolls, registered at that booth must get a chance to vote,
z Provides recognition to political parties, no impersonation should be there and delivers the
z Allots symbols to different political parties, ballot boxes and EVMs to the returning officer.
z Issues guidelines and code of conduct for the z Polling officer: Every presiding officer is assisted
election officials, by three or four officials who are called polling
z Redressal of election complaints, officer. Different duties are assigned to them just
z Conducting election, appointing the electoral as one may check the identity of the voter, the
officials, counting of votes and announcing the second may put the ink on the finger and third
results. may issue the ballot paper and get the signature.

Electoral Process in India

It is a long process and passes through various stages as given below -
Delimitation of constituencies, preparation of electoral rolls, notification of the election, election
schedule, allotment of election symbols, repoll or if necessary, countermanding of election, counting of
votes and announcement of the result are some of the major functions of the Election Commission.
Participation through elections depend on the right to vote. Who is eligible to vote in India? The
Constitution of India has granted Universal Adult Franchise which means that all adults who have attained
the age of 18 year have a right to vote without any discriminaiton.
64 :: Learner Guide

Election Reforms
Many a times it is heard that election was not fair. Suggested Electoral Reforms
As such there is always a scope for improvement. z The present ‘first past the post system’ or
Hence, reforms are made to improve the electoral ‘plurality system’ may be changed to some form
process from time to time. of proportional representation
Issues of complaint related to elections z Expenditure made by candidates or parties
z Fake and bogus voting called rigging of should be audited.
elections. z Harsh punishment should be given for booth
z Use of muscle power or violence to terrorise the capturing or fake voting
voters. z A system for state funding should be introduced
z Use of money to purchase votes. z Complete ban should be imposed on the use of
z Misuse of governmental machinery. caste and religious appeals in compaigns.
z Booth capturing and criminalization of elections z Criminals should be stopped to contest elections
and politics.

Evaluate Yourself
Q. How do people make their participation in a democratic system? Explain.
Q. Highlight the agencies which help in formation of ‘public opinion’.
Q. List the complaints which you may have ever heard about electoral system in India. Suggest some
measures to reform the present electoral system of India.
 CHALLENGES TO INDIAN DEMOCRACY

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

23 Challenges to Self Awareness, To Understand Various

Indian Democracy Problem Solving Challenges to Indian
Democracy

Meaning
India is called the largest democracy in the world. It is democratic because elections take place at regular
intervals at different levels. It is almost over six decades that elected governments of people’s representatives
have strengthened our democracy at the centre, state and local levels.
“Democracy is a government of the people, by the people, for the people.” A form of government which
is run by elected representatives.
Democracy is not merely a form of government but has a comprehensive form. Therefore, democracy
means, a form of government, a type of state, a pattern of social system, a design of economic order.

Essential Conditions for Democracy Challenges

A Democracy becomes genuine and comprehensive Some of the challenges before the democracy in
only when it fulfils certain conditions : India are illeteracy, poverty, gender discriminaiton,
casteism and communalism, regionalism,
Political conditions: Social and Economic corruption, criminalisation of politics and violence.
(a) Supreme power in conditions:
Illiteracy
the hands of people (a) Equality before the
(b) Provision of law (b) Equality of Literacy is very important for the success of
Fundamental Rights opportunities (c) Social democracy but in India it is still a challenge to
(c) Provision of security (d) Provision remove illeteracy.
Universal Adult of educaiton for all. Poverty
Franchise (d) Free
Press and Media The growing population and unemployment is the
(e) Active political root cause of poverty which leads to inequality and
participation. deprivation of opportunities.
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Gender Discrimination Role of Citizen in a Democracy

In India discriminaiton against women and girls is Democracy can be successful and vibrant only
seen in every walk of life which is against the when citizens imbibe and reflect the basic values
principle of democracy. Due to discriminaiton sex like equality, freedom, secularism, social justice,
ratio has become a cause of concern. accountability and respect for all.
In a Democracy, every citizen is responsible for
Casteism and Communalism how do the governments function at different
Indian Democracy is still facing the problems levels. Hence, every citizen has a critical role to
created by casteism and communalism. Politician play. Major opportunities available are as follows:
use the both as an instrument to get votes. Both of z Participation in public life, mainly through
these are threat to the unity and peace. exercising the right to vote during elections.
z It is the citizen who can make the democratic
Regionalism system responsive, responsible and
Imbalance in development and feeling of neglect accountable. The Right to Information Act,
by the citizens of a particular region leads to 2005, has empowered the citizens to become
regionalism which again is a threat to unity and informed about public issues and express their
peace. own opinions and interests.
z Every citizen has certain rights to do certain
Corruption things. Every citizen has the responsibility to
Dishonesty, bribery, use of casteism and ensure that his/her actions do not infringe upon
communalism for political gains is corruption. the rights of others.
Not only the politicians but the officials of the
government are not sincere to the interests of the Role of Citizen to Actualise
Nation. Corrective Measures
It is possible through a Proactive Role by the
Corrective Measures citizen who
z Universal Literacry (Education for All) z must respect law and reject violence,
z Poverty Alleviation z must respect the rights of others,
z Elimination of Gender Discrimination z must respect the dignity of human beings,
z Removal of Regional Imbalance z must not denounce the opponents,
z may question the decisions of the government
z Administrative and Judicial Reforms
but not reject the government’s authority,
z Sustainable Development (Economic, Social
z must respect the cultural diversity.
and Environmental)

Evaluate Yourself
Q. What is meant by Democracy?
Q. Mention the challenges which pose a threat to the successful working of Democracy in India. Analyse
any two most threatening challenges.
Q. Evaluate the efforts made by the Governments at different levels to overcome the challenges before
Democracy. Suggest any two ways and means to meet such challenges.
 NATIONAL INTEGRATION AND SECULARISM

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

24 National Integration Self Awareness, Understanding Secularism

and Secularism Inter-Personal Relationship & National Integration

Meaning
India is a Nation having great diversities. People of different races, communities and castes who reside
in different geographical regions of India speak different languages, practice and profess different
religions and have varied styles, still feel that they are all Indians and firmly believe that their national
identity is supreme., Therefore, for a large country like India with various diversities, we have to co-exist
peacefully and respect the culture and religion of fellow Indians. This is called national integration.

National Integration and 2. Linguism

the Indian Constitution
z Opposition of Hindi as an official language of
Just after independence India had to face India.
multifaceted problems due to partition of the z Wide-spread protests by the people of non-
country, communal violence, integration of princely Hindi speaking regions.
states and many more factors. z English was allowed to continue as official
Therefore, the Constitution of India lays great language for unlimited period.
emphasis on national integration, protection of 3. Extremism
sovereignty, unity and integrity of India. It is with z Movements by naxalites or maoists.
this purpose that India has opted for a strong z Quite often such movements cause violence,
Central Government along with the State create fear and lead to loss of life and property.
Governments. z Mostly the youths participate and get
misguided.
4. Regionalism
Challenges to National Integration
z Promotes regional interests at the cost of
1. Communalism national interest, and gives rise to regional
z Excessive affinity to one’s own religion and demands.
hatred towards other religious communities. z Highlights imbalance and neglect of a particular
z Dangerous for the unity and integrity of the region.
country, and is responsible for most of the z Compels the governments to fulfil regional
communal riots. aspiration.
68 :: Learner Guide

Factors Promoting Secularism in the Constitution

National Integration Various provision of the Indian Constitution ensure
A. Constitutional Provisions India to be a secular State. They are:
z The Constitution of India has many provisions z Preamble declares India a Secular State.
which promote and ensure national integration. z Fundamental Rights and the Directive
z Fundamental Rights empower the citizens Principles of State Policy.
where as Fundamental Duties create a z Principle of equality, non-discrimination and
harmonious atmosphere to live together. social and economic democracy.
z Directive Principles of State Policy direct the
governments to promote equitable economic
development, eliminate social discrimination
and endeavour for peace and security. Secularism: Its Significance
B. Governmental Initiatives India is a land which has given rise to four of the
z National Integration Council has been set up. world’s major religions. Despite many
z Planning Commission prepares plans for the constitutional provisions and various safeguards,
equitable development of the whole country. India has witnessed communal tension and
violence. Under these circumstances, secularism
z The Election Commission of India conducts
is essential not only for maintaining communal
free and fair elections
harmony and peace, but for the very existence of
C. National Festivals and Symbols
India as a nation.
z They act as a very strong unifying force. Many
of them like Independence Day, Republic Day,
Gandhi Jayanti are celebrated regardless of
language, religion or culture Evaluate Yourself
z Our National Symbols like the National Flag,
Q. How did the Freedom Movement of India
National Anthem and the National Emblem
create an atmosphere of national integration?
also bind us and act as a unifying force.
D. All India Services and other Factors Q. Why is communalism considered a major threat
to the national unity? Suggest ways and means
z All India Services like IAS, IFS and IPS act as
a unifying force since they are recruited centrally to establish peace and harmony in the country.
but work in States. Q. Assess the factors which really promote
z Unified Judicial System, Radio and Television, national integration?
Postal and Communication network etc also
promote unity and integration.
SOCIO-ECONOMIC

Secularism
Secularism implies equality of all religions and
religious tolerances It does not mean being
irreligious or anti-religious.
Secularism stands as one of the basic pillars of
Indian Democracy.
 DEVELOPMENT AND EMPOWERMENT
OF DISADVANTAGED GROUPS

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

25 Development and Self Awareness, Inter-Personal Skill Understanding

Empowerment of Problem Solving, Creative Thinking Socio-Economic Conditions
Disadvantaged Groups of Disadvantaged Groups

Meaning
India got freedom from foreign rule in 1947, with this began our new struggle to get rid of poverty, illiteracy
hunger and social discrimination. To achieve objective of socio-economic development, the government
undertakes various activities. Empowerment of weaker or disadvantaged sections like Scheduled Caste,
Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes and Women have been integral part of our development
strategy.
Meaning of Socio-Economic Development
z Social Development : Social development leads to transformation of social institutions, improvement
in health and educational facilities building capacity of the society to fulfil aspirations of all sections
of the society, checking social discrimination and encouraging progressive attitudes and behaviour of
the society.
z Economic Development : Increase in Gross Domestic Product, National Income and Per Capita
Income is essential for economic development. But the concept of economic development implies
much more like ensuring economic wellbeing, equal distribution of benefits of development,
particularly, it should reach to the disadvantaged groups of the society.

Sustainable Development Socio-economic

Development in India
Sustainable development is a broad concept that is
defined as, “Development that meets the needs of Various policies and programmes have been
the present without compromising the ability of implemented for the development of the country
future generations to meet their own needs” right from the day it became independent. After
Sustainable Development is environment friendly adoption of Liberalisation and Globalisation
development. Its primary goal is to achieve policies in 1991, India became one of the fastest
reasonable and equitably distributed level of growing economies in the world. It resulted in
economic and social well-being that can be significant reduction in poverty, although around
perpetuated continuously for many generations of 27.5 percent Indians still live below the Poverty
mankind. Line (2000-05 estimates).
70 :: Learner Guide

Socio-economic Disparities in India Empowerment of Schduled Castes

and Scheduled Tribes Population
After independence, planned economic
development strategy in India aimed at reducing Social and economic empowerment alongwith
regional disparities by promoting development of social justice is the three pronged strategy of
all regions. But sharp regional disparities still Government of India to uplift Scheduled Castes,
exist. Also there are some man made differences Scheduled Tribes and other disadvantaged groups.
like differences of the per capita income, lopsided
A. Social empowerment
agricultural and industrial growth, expansion of
transport and communication, literacy rate etc Free and compulsory elementary education,
which are still more dangerous and difficult to scholarship to pursue school and higher
meet as challenges. education, free coaching for various
competitive exam. and free hostel facility
B. Economic empowerment: Various income
Causes of Regional generating programmes have been launched,
Disparities in India NSFDC, NSKFDC, NSTCDC, SCDC,
TRIFED etc. are some organisations which
z Historical perspective
provide finanacial support to SCs and STs.
z Geographical factors
C. Social justice: Affirmative action in the
z Uneven distribution of natural resources form of reservation has been initiated. Seats
z Distance from national markets and major have been reserved for SCs and STs in all the
commercial centres. governmental offices and institutions.
z Lack of basic infrastructure
z Poor governance, law and order problems,
inability to make optimum utilisation of Empowerment of Women
national resources, lack of vision etc discourage Constitution of India prohibits gender
development and give rise to disparities. discrimination and ensures gender equality and
justice. It also empowers the State to adopt
measures of positive discrimination in favour of
Disadvantaged Groups women. But there exists a wide gap between
of the Society accepted goals and ground reality regarding
In a diverse country like ours, it is a big challenge condition of women in India. Following major
to ensure equal access to the outcomes of the steps are being undertaken by the government for
development. India has been making notable the empowerment of women:
progress but still there are various social groups
A. Economic empowerment
who are socially and economically disadvantaged
and backward. Some such groups are Scheduled z Training programmes to enable them to
Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Other participate in various industrial sectors
Backward classes (OBCs), Minorities and Women like electronics, IT, food processing etc.
z Support services like child care, creches
at work place are being provided.
 Learner Guide :: 71

B. Social empowerment Health for All

z Equal access to education, providing Health for all by the year 2000 was first enunciated
special benefits to the girls. at the WHO/UNICEF meet at Alma Atta in 1978.
To achieve this goal, Government of India launched
z Fulfilling nutritional neeeds of the various programmes like National Rural Health
women at all stages of life cycle. Mission (NRHM) and related programmes like
z Legal steps to check violence against Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) Kishori Shakti
women at domestic and social level. Yojana (KSY), Balika Samridhi Yojana (BSY)
etc.
C. Political empowerment
73rd and 74th constitutional amendments
(1993) provided 33.3 percent seats for
Evaluate Yourself
women in rural and urban local bodies. It is
a land mark step in the direction of enhancing Q. What is meant by socio-economic
participation of women in public life. development? What are various causes of
disparities in India?
Q. Why is it necessary to take steps to uplift the
Major Policies and Programmes weaker/disadvantaged groups?
on Socio-Economic Development
Q. Describe the measures taken by the
Education for All government for the empowerment of
Some special measures adopted are as follows: Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

z National literacy mission, 1988, aimed at

providing functional literacy to adults of age
group 15-35
z Sarva Siksha Abhiyan (SSA), 2001 aimed at
enrolling all children of age group 6-14 and
achieve universal retention by year 2010.
z Nutritioinal support or mid-day meal scheme.
z 86th Constitutional Amendment Act 2002
made free and compulsory education a
fundamental right for all children in age group
of 6 to 14 years.
z Parliament passed Free and Compulsory
Education Act, 2009 and it came into effect in
year 2010.
 ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION
AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

26 Environmental Self Awareness, Problem Solving, Must not Degrade

Degradation and Effective Communication, Decision Environment
Disaster Management Making, Critical Thinking

Meaning
Trees are being cut for cultivation in rural areas and for constructing houses, multiplexes and roads in urban
areas. We all feel the impact of pollution owing to emission of carbon monoxide by large number of
vehicles and harmful gases from factories. All these human activities are adversely affecting our
environment. The deterioration of environment has led to various kinds of man made disasters and
calamities. Bhopal Gas Tragedy, landslide and London smog are some of the examples of such disasters
or calamities.

Meaning of Environment and its importance

z Commonly environment means the surroundings in which we live.
z It is defined as the sum total of all the conditions and circumstances and the living and non-living things
around an organism which affects its life.
z Environment is very important for our survival.
z We are dependent on the environment for our food, shelter, water, air, soil, energy, medicines, fibres,
raw materials for our industries.

Classification of Environment
Environment based on evolution

Natural environment Human made environment

Living thing Non-living thing Living space Houses Schools Railways

(biotic) (abiotic) Roads Hospitals
land or water
Variety of chemical and
living physical properties
organisms of living space

Hydrosphere Lithosphere
Atmosphere
 Learner Guide :: 73

The Dynamism and the Variety of the Environment

The environment is dynamic by nature. Environment does not remain static. The environment differs from
place to place and from one time in history to another. For example, the environment of the Himalayas is
different from that of the Indian desert. Even it has changed over a period of time. The environment of a
place does not remain the same. Some changes take place naturally while other are caused by human
interventions. Even the human made environment has been undergoing changes. Simple huts or houses
have been replaced by skyscrapers, villages are changed into towns, cities and megacities. Means of
transport and communication have been revolutionised.

Causes of Environmental Degradation

Causes of environmental degradation

Social factors Economic factors

Growing Poverty Urbanisation Changing

population life style

Agricultural Industrialisation Economic

Development Development

We can save our environment from degradation and at the same time create wealth in three ways: recycling,
reusing and reducing.

Recycle Reuse Reduce consumption

What to Its What to How What to How

recycle Impact reuse reduce
Organic waste It will Cans/Tins Use as Pencil Plastic Use cloth bag for
such as banana enrich Holder shopping and say
peels, egg soil no to plastic bags
shells and
leftovers of
vegetables

Paper Trees will Paper Make rough Electricity Switch off lights
be saved pads out of and fans when you
from remaining leave a room
being cut unused paper

Aluminum It will Cloth Use as Water Close taps when

reduce Carpet Sheets water is not being
need for used and store only
more the needed amount
bauxite of water
74 :: Learner Guide

Sustainable Development Floods and landslide could occur both naturally

There are serious consequences of environmental and by human intervention. We cannot stop
degradation. It is strongly felt that the major reason happening or occurrence of disasters completely
of environmental degradation has been the model but their effects can be minimised by adopting
of development adopted by human society. The suitable strategies called disaster management. Its
concept of sustainable development has emerged process involves four phases i.e. mitigation,
as an alternative model that will halt environmental preparedness, response and recovery.
degradation. The concept of sustainable
development has been defined as development Response
that meets the needs of the present generation
without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs. Sustainability
Disaster
requires managing the needs of development in a Recovery
management
Preparedness
way that ensures that the economy and society
continue to exist without destroying the natural
environment on which we live. We can achieve the
goal of sustainable development by using our Mitigation
natural resources scientifically and wisely.
If these four techniques are applied and the risks
are identified in advance, the effects of disasters
Disaster Management can be minimised to a greater extent.
It is a fact that growing share of devastations around
the world are triggered by disasters that stems from
environmental degradation and resource
mismanagement. Disasters have become challenges Evaluate Yourself
to the world but with due care, these can be managed.
A disaster is the tragedy that negatively affects Q. Explain the measuring of environmental
society and environment. Disaster can be classified degradation with suitable examples.
into two categories i.e. Natural disaster and human Q. ‘Environment is not static’. Substantiate this
made disasters. statement with suitable examples.
Disasters Q. What can you do at your personal level to save
environment from degradation.
Natural Human made

e.g. z Volcanic eruption e.g z Bhopal gas tragedy

z Earthquake z London smog
z Floods z Landslides
z Drought z Global warming
z Cyclones
z Tsunamis
 PEACE AND SECURITY

SKILLS Activity
L.No Title of Lesson

27 Peace and Security Problem Solving, Critical Thingking Understanding Peace &
Security

Meaning
Peace: Peace is a social and political condition that ensures development of individuals, Society and
Nation. Peace is not merely the absence of war or conflict, but also the presence of socio-cultural and
economic understanding and unity.
Security: Security means a feeling free from fear. It also means the safety of an individual, an Institution,
a Region, a Nation or the World. Security means freedom from extremely dangerous threats. It also relates
to threat that endangers core values like Human Rights.

Peace and Security

Peace and Security : Approach
z It must be understood that peace and security adopted in India
are inseparable. It is a condition where
individuals, institutions, regions, nations and The geographical position of India and its
the world move ahead without any threat. emergence as a global power make it vulnerable to
z There are two notions about peace and security. external threats. India has faced wars with
neighboring countries like China and Pakistan. It is
z One is traditional notion that has been focused
also facing the challenge of terrorism. So, the
on the danger of armed or military conflicts or
approach for ensuring peace and security began
threats. But the new or non-traditional notion
evolving quite early. Our leadership realised that
of peace and security is much broader and goes
democratic system can be functional only when a
beyond military threats to include wide range
condition of peace and security is maintained.
of dangers and threats to human existence.
They also expressed that independent India would
z This notion is primarily addressed to
make all out efforts to maintain and promote
individuals and includes freedom of
international peace and security.
individuals from hunger, wants, diseases,
epidemics, environmental degradation, z At the international level, it supports all the
exploitation and sub-human treatment. efforts made at the global level for peace,
equitable economic development, promotion
Peace and Security for of human rights and elimination of terrorism.
Democracy and Development z At the national level, it is committed to
ensure liberty, equality, social justice,
z Democracy and Development are closely secularism, equitable economic development
related to peace and security. The democracy and removal of social inequalities.
cannot survive without peace.
z The feeling of discrimination leads to
z The millennium development goals adopted discontent which turns into a major threat to
by 189 members of the UN identified peace
peace and security.
and security as precondition for development.
76 :: Learner Guide

Internal Threats to Peace and Security

Terrorism:
Terrorism has been a great threat to peace and security. The terrorist attack of 26/11 and many other such
attacks have shocked the peace and security of India. In the context of India, terrorism is defined as
essentially a criminal act to inflict dramatic and deadly injury on civilians and to create an atmosphere
of fear, generally for a political or ideological purpose.
Insurgency
An insurgency is an armed rebellion against a constitutional authority, the government. It may be a fight
for secession from the country. In India such activities are taking place in Jammu and Kashmir, Assam,
Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura.
Naxalite Movement
The basic cause of the movement is discontent among certain sections of society i.e. Scheduled Tribes,
and Dalits. They oftenly attack public property, government officials, police and paramilitary forces
whom they consider their enemies. They are also against any development in the forest area; because it
may result in loss of support.

Strategy of the Government Policy of Nonalignment

z The Government of India has been taking When the world was divided between two camps;
different steps to tackle these issues. after the second world war, India adopted the
z Naxalite Movement is being fought by tough policy of Non-Alignment. It is a dynamic concept
police action along with development and which means not joining any military bloc but
employment. Insurgency is being tackled taking an independent stand on international issues.
diplomatically. Many other countries also followed this policy of
z Pressure is being mounted on the neighbouring Non-Alignment. After the disintegration of USSR,
countries like Pakistan, Myanmar and USA remains the only power in the present unipolar
Bangladesh to stop helping such groups. world. But the policy of Non-Alignment is still
z International pressure is also being built and relevant as it gives freedom and opportunity to the
steps have been taken to bring the youth into nations to participate in global decision making.
the mainstream through development.

Support to United Nations

India has a great respect for International laws, treaties and institutions. It is one of the 51 founding
members of UN. India has always extended support to the UN in its efforts for international peace and
security. India has provided its human resources to peace making initiatives of the UN.

Evaluate Yourself

Q. Explain the approach of India towards the issue of peace and security.
Q. Highlight the internal threats to peace and security in India.
Q. Explain the strategies of Indian Government to face the threats to peace and security.
 Learner Guide :: 77

QUESTION – ANSWER FOR REFERENCE

1. Locate and label the following with appropriate (ii) Name the state which has the highest density
symbols on the given outline map of India of population according to 2001 census.
1×4=4
(iii) Write the name of any one river which
(i) Standard Meridian of India flows through Rift Valley.
(ii) State with the highest density of
(iv) Name the highest peak of India
population. (according to 2001 census)
(iii) A river which flows through rift valley Ans. (i) 82½° E
(iv) Highest peak of India (ii) West Bengal
NOTE: This question is for the visually disabled (iii) Narmada/Tapi
candidate.
(iv) K2
Answer the following questions
(i) Write the longitude of standard meridian of
India.
78 :: Learner Guide

2. Four important ports have been shown on the (iii) Andhra Pradesh
given map of India with serial no.1 to 4. Identify
(iv) West Bengal
these and write their correct names against their
serial no. in your answer book. 1×4=4 Ans. Ports :
Ans. 1. Kochi (i) Gujarat : Kandla, Porbandar (any one)
2. Vishakhapatnam (ii) Tamil Nadu : Tuticorin

3. Chennai Nagapattanam

4. Tuticorin Chennai

Write the name of one port each of the following (any one)
states: (iii) Andhra Pradesh : Vishakhapatnam
(i) Gujarat (iv) West Bengal : Kolkata/Haldia (any one)
(ii) Tamil Nadu
 Learner Guide :: 79

3. In 1837 suppose you lived in Madras which one 7. How do we know that the India’s gangetic
is the fastest way of transporting granite stone plains became the place for establishing big
for building your house. 1 empires in ancient and Medieval India?
A. Bullock cart 1×2=2
B. Red Hill Rail Road Line Ans. (i) It was the most fertile area because of the
C. Camel-cart silt being deposited on the banks
D. Diesel driven auto carriage (ii) Abundant supply of fresh water for
drinking and irrigation
Ans. B.
(iii) Availability of iron in abundance helped
4. Worship of ancestors, nature spirits were very
in the expansion of the empire
common in the early civilisation of the world.
1 (Any 2 points)
One of the following reason did not seem to be 8. State any two advantages of providing
the reason for doing so. Identify. reservation to the weaker sections of the society
in the local government institutions. 1 × 2 = 2
A. They wanted that their ancestors live with
them for ever Ans.(i) It helps in eradicating caste based
discrimination
B. They respected their dead
(ii) It safeguards interests of the weakers
C. They felt that their ancestors will come
sections like SCs and STs
back some day
(or any other relevant answer.)
D. They were scared of the dead people.
9. As a student of 19th century school give any two
Ans. D.
features of your school unique to your time.
5. The following statements are related to 1×2=2
democracy and republic both. Identify the one Ans.(i) Science and Technology not taught
which is related to republic only. 1
(ii) Girls not allowed in school
A. It derives its authority from the will of the
(iii) Religious education foremost
people
10. Calculate birth rate and death rate with the
B. It is based on accountability following information: 1×2=2
C. Every citizen of India has the right to the (i) Total number of live births in a year in a
elected as head of the state. district is 400
D. It is based on Universal Adult Franchise (ii) Total number of deaths in a year in a
Ans. C. district is 350
6. Which of the following statements is TRUE for (iii) Total population at the mid year in the
democracy? 1 same district is 20,000.
A. Elections are not held regularly Ans.
B. People do not participate in making of the Total No. of live births in a year
government in a certain geographical area
Birth Rate = × 1000
C. Elections are part and parcel of the political Total No. of population at the mid
system year of the same geographical area

D. Right to vote is not universal 400

× 1000 = 20%
Ans. C. 20,000
80 :: Learner Guide

Total No. of deaths in a year under (ii) Not joining any of the military/power
in a certain geographical area blocs
Death Rate = × 1000
Total No. of population at the mid (iii) Merit based commitment and involvement
year of the same geographical area in international issues
350 (iv) Focus on development rather than
Death Rate = × 1000 = 17.5% accumulating arms
20,000
Or any other relevant point
11. You might have visited different areas with
varying climates and altitudes and might have 14. List any four human activities causing
found various types of trees/bushes and their environmental degradation. Suggest any two
characteristics. Describe any two types of natural ways and means to check them. 1×4=4
vegetation in brief. 2×2=4 Ans. Human activities
Ans. Types of Natural vegetation in India: (i) Using and throwing plastic materials into
(i) Tropical evergreen forests drain and choking them.
(ii) Tropical deciduous forests (ii) Plucking leaves from plants or trees while
standing at the bus stop
(iii) Thorn forests
(iii) Burning plastic material in the open
(iv) Tidal forests
(iv) Throwing garbage into water bodies
(v) Himalayan forest
(v) Throwing industrial effluents into water
Brief description of any two bodies
12. State any four activities we should not get (vi) Non maintenance of vehicles
involved into keeping in mind the values like
Or any other activity (Any four points)
humanism, environmentalism, harmonious
living, gender equality, scientific temper and Suggestions
enquiry. 1×4=4 (i) Non-biodegradable goods must be taken
Ans.(i) Humanism : Not to torture or exploit or care of
insult other human beings (ii) Don’t pollute water with industrial waste
(ii) Environmentalism : Should not pollute or (iii) Take care of vehicles to avoid smoke
degrade the environment pollution
(iii) Harmonious living : Not to spread hatred Or any other suggestion
or discriminate against anybody on any 15. Compare and contrast farmers suicides between
ground 2002 and 2006 with Santhal rebellion 1856 and
(iv) Gender Equality : Men and women, boys Bengal Famine 1943. 4
and girls should not be discriminated or Ans. Between 2002 and 2006, 17,500 farmers
given preference on the basis of gender. killed themselves due to crop failure and debt.
(v) Scientific Temper and Enquiry : Should In 1856, peasants abandoned with taxation,
not believe in superstition blindly. (Any extraction from land joined rebels; 3 to 4 million
four activities) Indians were killed in Bengal famine (1943).
13. List any four features of the policy of Non- 16. Identify any four social practices which are still
Alignment which helped India to protect her prevalent despite social reform movement of
national interests during the period of cold war. 19th century. 1×4=4
1×4=4
Ans. (i) Purdah
Ans. (i) Adoption of independent foreign
policy (ii) Dowry
 Learner Guide :: 81

(iii) illiteracy such works which hold great reverence for the
(iv) female infanticide people even today? 1×4=4
17. Which hero of the Revolt of 1857 inspired you Ans.(i) The four Vedas
the most? Identify any four of his/her attributes (ii) Sutras, Epics Ramayana and Mahabharat,
that attract you most. 1×4=4
Smirtis, Puranas
Ans.(i) Rani Laxmi Bai of Jhansi best and bravest (iii) Tripitakas
military leader
(iv) Kalidas, Banabhatta, Shudraka etc.
(ii) Tantya Tope captured while asleep
19. Study the map given below and answer the
(iii) Kunwar Singh of Bihar
question that follows 1×4=4
(iv) Bahadur Shah Jaffar taken prisoner
What are four main factors responsible for dense
deported to Rangoon died at the age of 87
population in the area demarcated as A?
18. Some of the literary works produced in ancient
India has come down to us. Identify atleast four

INDIA
POPULATON DENSITY
2001

100 and less

101-250
251-500 National average
501-1000
1001 and above
82 :: Learner Guide

Ans. Factor responsible for density and distribution Ans.(i) The state shall make efforts to prevent the
of population: consumption of alcoholic drinks and other
harmful drugs
(i) Relief
(ii) The state shall take steps to organise the
(ii) Climate
village panchayats. These panchayats
(ii) Soil should be given such powers and authority
(iv) Industrialisation and urbanisation as may be necessary to enable them to
function as units of self government.
(v) Transport and communication
22. Suppose your father has been transferred to a
(Explanation of any four one mark for each)
tribal area and the domestic help is a Scheduled
Note : This question is for the visually disable Tribe. Sons of domestic help and heighbourhood
candidate tribal people saught your assistance. How can
Briefly explain any four factors responsible for they be economically empowered? Which
higher population density in West Bengal. information you shall provide to them for their
Factors responsible for density and distribution economic empowerment? 2×2=4
of population: Ans. Institutions for Economic Empowerment.
(i) Relief (i) NSFDC provides financial and other
(ii) Climate support for taking of various income
generating activities.
(ii) Soil
(ii) NSKFDC provides financial and other
(iv) Industrialisations and urbanisation support to safai karmcharies for taking up
(v) Transport and communication various income generating activities.
(Brief explanation of any four points one mark (iii) NSTFDC supports various income and
for each) employment generating activities through
loans, marketing support, training
20. Suggest any four important qualities, which in
(iv) SCDC finances employment orienting
your opinion, must be inculcated in the Members
schemes
of Parliament for becoming a good
parliamentarian and why? 1×4=4 (v) STDC function as channellising agencies
and extending financial and other
Ans.(i) Should maintain discipline and decorum assistance to beneficiaries
of the House 23. Temperature and Rainfall of two stations in
(ii) Should obey the orders of the Speaker/ India (Temp. in °C, Rainfall in cms) 4
Chairman Stations Month
(iii) Should attend the session of the House of
J F M A M J J A S O N D
the Parliament regularly
(iv) Should maintain transparency as a A T –8 –7 –1 9 10 14 17 17 12 6 0 –6
Member of Parliament
R 10 8 8 5 5 5 13 13 8 5 0 5
Or any one relevant quality
B T 25 26 28 31 33 33 31 31 30 20 26 25
21. Given below are two Gandhian principles.
Identify any two Directive Principle of State R 4 13 13 18 38 45 87 113 119 306 350 135
Policy corresponding to them. 2×2=4
(i) Prohibit alcoholism
(ii) Self-Government at village level
 Learner Guide :: 83

Study the above mentioned table and answer the (iii) Electoral laws to be more stringent and
following questions: provisions for harsher punishment
(i) Calculate the average annual rainfall of (iv) State funding of elections
station B (v) Provision for one third representation of
(ii) Find out the range of temperature of station women in legislatures
A (vi) Role of money and muscle power to be
(iii) Which of these two stations represent the curbed
climate of Chennai? Give any two reasons. (vii) Criminalisation of politics on the use of
caste, religion in electoral process.
Ans. (i) 103.4 cms (Any four)
(ii) 25°C 25. Analyse the economic factors responsible for
(iii) a) Station B, because it receives environmental degradation in India. 4
rainfall during winter from Ans. Economic Factors
retreating monsoons
(i) Agricultural Development causes
b) Temperature remain high almost
a) soil erosion
throughout the year or range of
temperature is only 13°C b) land salination and alkalisation
24. If you were the Prime Minister of India which c) loss of nutrients
four major electoral reforms will you like to (ii) Industrialisation
bring about for free and fair election and why? a) depletion of natural resources
1×4=4 b) contamination of water, air and land
Ans. Election reforms are needed owing to the (iii) Economic development
following: a) Consumption intensive
(i) Rigging of elections, false and bogus b) New life style which leads to advance
voting, impersonation impact
(ii) Violence during elections c) Wastage and depletion
(iii) Role of money and muscle power 26. Describe those aspects of the cultural and
adversely affecting elections religious life of the people which had great
(iv) Intimidation of voters, especially the impact on the lives of the people of India.
people of weaker sections. 1×5=5
(v) Misuse of governmental machinery Ans. (i) ‘Bhakti’ and ‘Sufi Movement’ which
stressed on oneness with God through
(vi) Booth capturing and criminalisation of
personal devotion
elections (Any four)
(ii) Stress on love, purity and devotion rather
Suggested Electoral Reforms are the following:
than on rituals and sacrifices
(i) Change from on-going system (plural (iii) Questioned the caste and the authority of
system) to some form of proportional the Brahamn Priests
representation system (iv) This impacted the minds of the common
(ii) The functioning of political parties to be people
regulated
84 :: Learner Guide

(v) The saints had large following and helped Ans. Dear Friend,
to find a new religion called Sikhism.
Namaskar
27. Mention any five suitable examples of the
reasonable restrictions imposed on the Right to Hope this finds you in the Pink of your health.
Freedom 1×5=5 I am overwhelmed as I attended last night
meeting convened by Gandhiji. He gave us the
Ans. Examples of reasonable restrictions
mantra ‘Do or Die’. He said either we shall free
(i) Freedom to assemble peacefully and India or die in the attempt. We shall not live to
without arms may be restricted if there is see the perpetuation of slavery. Early in the
an apprehension of disorder or violence morning all leaders of Congress have been
etc. arrested. Congress is banned and press censored
(ii) Freedom to form associations or unions agitation, hartals and processions are very
may be restricted if the purpose of forming effectively been staged in Bombay.
such organisations is against national
How is life in Delhi?
interests or morality etc.
(iii) Freedom to move freely may also be With regard
restricted if somebody’s movement or yours
going to a particular place can instigate the
ABC
people and becomes a law and order
problem. 29. Explain any five points of economic significance
(iv) Freedom to pratise any profession does of Northern plains of India. 5×1 = 5
not mean that one can deal in drugs or any Ans. Economic significance of Northern plains
unlawful commodities (i) most fertile plain
(v) Freedom to expression does not permit us (ii) Proper irrigation facilities
to abuse somebody or call names or any (iii) Production of food grains
other relevant example (iv) abundant freshwater
28. On the night of 8th Aug; 1942, when Gandhiji (v) Thickly poplulated area
gave the Mantra of Do or Die, imagine you were (vi) Dense transportation Road/Rail networks
witness to that meeting. Write a letter to your
(Any other relevant points)
friend in Delhi unfolding the events in Bombay.
5 (Any five points with brief explanation)
 Learner Guide :: 85

SAMPLE QUESTIONS
EVALUATE YOURSELF

1. In the given outline map of India, mark and label the following with appropriate symbols: 1 × 4 = 4
(i) A steel plant of private sector
(ii) A wildlife sanctuary of Jammu and Kashmir
(iii) The highest mountain peak of the Himalayas in India
(iv) An area of tropical evergreen forest

2. Four important coal mines have been shown in 3. Britishers initially came to India for 1
the given map of India with serial number 1 to 4. A. trading purpose
Identify these and write their names against
B. establishing industries
their serial numbers in your answer book.
1/2 × 4 = 2 C. spreading christianity
D. political power
86 :: Learner Guide

4. In 19th century ‘Vedas’ were controlled by which 11. Describe any four factors responsible for the
class of people out of the following: 1 development of railways in India. 1 × 4 = 4
A. Brahmins 12. Describe the situations wherein a Governor can
B. Kshatriya exercise his/her discretionary powers. 4
C. Vaishyas 13. State any four sources of income of a Municipal
D. Shudra Corporation. 1×4=4
5. Which one of the following is a characteristic of 14. State any four basic objectives of Indian foreign
Indian Federal System? 1 policy. 1×4=4
A. The powers have been divided between 15. Discuss any four features of Indigo Rebellion of
the Centre and the States late 19th century in India. 1×4=4
B. The powers have been divided between
legislature, executive and judiciary 16. Explain any four features of caste system in
India. 1×4=4
C. India has been declared a Secular State
D. India does not have a written Constitution 17. Discuss any four Economic causes of Revolt of
1857. 1×4=4
6. Which one of the following is a challenge to
democracy? 1 18. How did new ideas generates by renaissance
A. Popular movements bring changes in the thinking pattern of the
people. 4
B. Fundamental Rights
C. Poverty 19. Explain the geographical conditions for the
D. Securalism growth of tea in India. 4
7. Describe any two reasons which gave rise to 20. Explain the role of any four agencies which
imperialism in Asia? 1×2=2 formulate the public opinion. 4×1=4
8. What is meant by a Welfare State? 2 21. Explain any four freedoms provided under the
9. Define child sex-ratio. 2 Right to Freedom in the Constitution of India.
1×4=4
10. Calculate the dependency ratio of a district whose
population in three broad categories are given 22. Explain any four measures undertaken by
below: 2 Government of India for the upliftment of the
Children (0 to 14 years) : 6,000 disadvantaged sections of the society. 4 × 1 = 4
Adult (15 to 59 years) : 30,000 23. Study the table given below and answer the
Old (60 years and more) : 3,000 questions that follow: 4×1=4

Temperature (in °C) and Rainfall (in cm) of station ‘A’

Month Jan. Feb. Mar. April May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec.
Temp. 14 17 23 29 34 35 31 30 29 21 20 15
Rainfall 21 24 13 10 10 68 186 170 125 14 2 9
Find out:
 Learner Guide :: 87

(i) Annual range of temperature 26. How Russia’s entry into the first World War
(ii) Mean annual temperature helped in the spread of socialism in that country?
(iii) Name of month recording highest rainfall 5
(iv) Mean annual rainfall 27. What is meant by ‘judicial review’? How has it
encouraged ‘judicial activism’ and public interest
24. The group called “India Against Corruption” led
litigation. 1+2+2=5
by Anna Hazare has been continuing a movement
for the enactment of a ‘Jan Lok Pal Bill’. Is this 28. Evaluate Non-Cooperation Movement. 5
Group acting as a Pressure Group or an Interest 29. Explain any five salient features of Indian
Group? Do you think this group has political Agriculture. 1×5=5
interest? Justify your answer. 5
25. Assess the relevance of policy of Non-Alignment
in the context of the changed nature of
International Politics. 5