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Class 12 History Previous Year Questions, Chapter-wise (2022-2025)

CBSE Class 12 · 730 Questions · 12 Chapters · Free PDF

Every CBSE Class 12 History board exam question from 2022-2025 that we have on file, sorted by NCERT chapter and then by type: MCQs and assertion-reason, very short, short and long answers, and case studies. Each question is tagged with its year and marks. A question repeated across paper sets appears once. Questions that depend on a figure from the original paper are left out. Questions only, no answers.

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Practise each chapter with free notes, mind maps and graded MCQs.

Practise Class 12 History →
  1. Bricks, Beads and Bones: The Harappan Civilisation (48)
  2. Kings, Farmers and Towns: Early States and Economies (62)
  3. Kinship, Caste and Class: Early Societies (52)
  4. Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings: Cultural Developments (63)
  5. Through the Eyes of Travellers: Perceptions of Society (53)
  6. Bhakti-Sufi Traditions: Changes in Religious Beliefs and Devotional Texts (58)
  7. An Imperial Capital: Vijayanagara (57)
  8. Peasants, Zamindars and the State: Agrarian Society and the Mughal Empire (70)
  9. Colonialism and the Countryside: Exploring Official Archives (56)
  10. Rebels and the Raj: 1857 Revolt and Its Representations (79)
  11. Mahatma Gandhi and the Nationalist Movement (66)
  12. Framing the Constitution: The Beginning of a New Era (66)

1Bricks, Beads and Bones: The Harappan Civilisation Notes & MCQs →

Multiple choice and assertion-reason (26)

Q1.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following is correct regarding Harappan script?

  1. This script was alphabetical.
  2. It was written from left to right.
  3. This script has not been deciphered so far.
  4. This script has a few signs or symbols.
Q2.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

In which of the following sites of Harappan civilization, the terracotta models of plough have been discovered?

  1. Kalibangan and Dholavira
  2. Shortughai and Lothal
  3. Banawali and Cholistan
  4. Sanghol and Rakhigarhi
Q3.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Two statements are given below as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read them carefully and choose correct option. Assertion (A): Harappa was a well-planned city. Reason (R): It had a well-planned drainage system.

  1. Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct reasoning of (A).
  2. Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct reasoning of (A).
  3. (A) is correct but (R) is not correct.
  4. (A) is not correct but (R) is correct.
Q4.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following was a distinctive feature of Harappan architecture?

  1. Use of Wood
  2. Use of Iron
  3. Use of Bricks
  4. Use of Marble
Q5.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following statement best explains the uniformity in urban planning across Harappa?

  1. Presence of Central authority
  2. Management by city-states
  3. Organisation of tribal leadership
  4. System of nomadic governance
Q6.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following statements accurately describe Harappan seals?

  1. Statements I and II are correct.
  2. Statements I and III are correct.
  3. Statements II and III are correct.
  4. Statements III and IV are correct.
Q7.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following is the primary method archaeologists used to study social differences within the Harappan society?

  1. Studying cropping pattern
  2. Analysing designs of seals
  3. Examining burial customs
  4. Studying religious beliefs
Q8.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Assume you visit a museum and find a Harappan seal depicting a bull. What might this suggest about Harappan beliefs and practices?

  1. Bulls were considered important for protection.
  2. Bulls were associated with warfare with Oman.
  3. Bulls were considered as the symbol of wealth.
  4. Bulls were usually used in agriculture.
Q9.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Who among the following was an ex-army Brigadier and Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India in 1944?

  1. John Marshall
  2. R.E.M. Wheeler
  3. Alexander Cunningham
  4. S.N. Roy
Q10.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following was the best source of lapis lazuli in the Harappan sites?

  1. Nageshwar
  2. Manda
  3. Rakhigarhi
  4. Shortughai
Q11.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who among the following is the author of the book 'The Story of Indian Archaeology'?

  1. John Marshall
  2. Daya Ram Sahni
  3. S.N. Roy
  4. R.E.M. Wheeler
Q12.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following statements is not correct about the subsistence strategy of Harappa?

  1. Terracotta sculpture of oxen indicates ploughing.
  2. Two sets of furrows at right angles indicate two cropping patterns.
  3. Traces of canals have been found at Shortughai, Afghanistan.
  4. Deep water reservoirs have been found in Sindh for irrigation.
Q13.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Fill in the blank with the appropriate word from the given options: The Harappan site of ________ is located in present day Rajasthan.

  1. Rakhigarhi
  2. Lothal
  3. Kalibangan
  4. Manda
Q14.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column-I with Column-II and choose the correct option from the following:

Column-I (Harappan Sites) | Column-II (Present region) I. Manda | a. Gujarat II. Rakhigarhi | b. Rajasthan III. Nageshwar | c. Haryana IV. Kalibangan | d. Jammu

  1. c a b d
  2. a b d c
  3. b d c a
  4. d c a b
Q15.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following is the correct statement regarding Harappan Culture?

  1. Most of the Harappan sites were located in semi-arid lands.
  2. Irrigation was probably not required for agriculture at the Harappan sites.
  3. No trace of canals have been found at the Harappan sites.
  4. The Iron tipped Ploughshare was used at the Harappan sites.
Q16.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who among the following was an ex-army official and worked as Director General of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)?

  1. John Marshal
  2. Alexander Cunningham
  3. R.D. Bannerjee
  4. R.E.M. Wheeler
Q17.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following is not a true statement regarding Harappan Script?

  1. This script remains undeciphered till date.
  2. This script was written from left to right.
  3. It was not alphabetic.
  4. It has too many signs between 375 and 400.
Q18.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Read the following statements regarding Cunningham and choose the correct option: I. Cunningham was the first Director-General of ASI. II. He began archaeological excavations in mid 19th century. III. He brought a military precision to the practice of archaeology. IV. He used the accounts left by Chinese Buddhist pilgrims.

  1. I and IV are correct
  2. I and II are correct
  3. I, II and III are correct
  4. I, II and IV are correct
Q19.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

In which of the modern Indian states is Rakhigarhi, an ancient site of Harappan culture, located ?

  1. Himachal Pradesh
  2. Uttar Pradesh
  3. Haryana
  4. Rajasthan
Q20.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

The Story of Indian Archaeology

  1. R.D. Banerjee
  2. D.R. Sahni
  3. S.N. Roy
  4. B.B. Lal
Q21.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

In which state of modern India is Dholavira, an ancient site of Harappan culture located ?

  1. Haryana
  2. Himachal Pradesh
  3. Rajasthan
  4. Gujarat
Q22.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

In which of the following modern states of India is Kalibangan, an ancient site of Harappan culture, located ?

  1. Rajasthan
  2. Punjab
  3. Uttar Pradesh
  4. Gujarat
Q23.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Read the following statements about the Indus Valley Civilization: (i) Early and mature Harappan culture shared subsistence strategies. (ii) Millets have been found from one of the Indus Valley Civilization sites. (iii) Archaeologists have found evidences of a ploughed field at Kalibangan. (iv) Archaeo-zoologists reconstructed dietary practices from charred grains. Choose the correct option:

  1. (i), (ii) and (iv)
  2. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
  3. (i), (ii) and (iii)
  4. (i), (iii) and (iv)
Q24.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Two statements as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and select the correct option: Assertion (A): Harappan Civilization had developed a precise system of weights and measures. Reason (R): Metal scale-pans have been found.

  1. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  2. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  3. Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
  4. Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
Q25.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Banawali, an ancient site of Harappan culture, is located in which of the following modern Indian state?

  1. Punjab
  2. Haryana
  3. Himachal Pradesh
  4. Uttarakhand
Q26.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following was the first Director General of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)?

  1. R.E.M. Wheeler
  2. John Marshall
  3. Daya Ram Sahni
  4. Alexander Cunningham

Short answer (11)

Q27.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Why were the seals and sealings used by the Harappans to facilitate long distance communication? Explain with examples.

Q28.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Explain the views of archaeologists on the religious beliefs of the Harappans.

Q29.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Explain the views of historians on Harappan agriculture.

Q30.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Why is the Harappan script called an enigmatic script? Explain.

Q31.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain the methods of irrigation used by the Harappans at different sites.

Q32.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain how did archaeologists identify the centres of craft production of the Harappan age.

Q33.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain the strategies adopted by Harappans to procure raw material for their craft production.

Q34.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain how the drainage system of Harappan cities indicate town planning.

Q35.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Describe the distinct views of archaeologists on the Central authority of Harappa.

Q36.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Describe the major strategies of Harappans to procure raw materials for craft production.

Q37.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

How have historians explained the social differences among Harappans? Explain.

Long answer (2)

Q38.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

In what ways do the challenges of inscriptional evidences restrict our ability to understand the past? Explain with examples.

Q39.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

(a) "The most unique feature of the Harappan civilization was the development of urban centres." Explain.

Case-based (9)

Case study · CBSE 2025

The most ancient system yet discovered About the drains, Mackay noted: "It is certainly the most complete ancient system as yet discovered." Every house was connected to the street drains. The main channels were made of bricks set in mortar and were covered with loose bricks that could be removed for cleaning. In some cases, limestone was used for the covers. House drains first emptied into a sump or cesspit into which solid matter settled while wastewater flowed out into the street drains. Very long drainage channels were provided at intervals with sumps for cleaning. It is a wonder of archaeology that "little heaps of material, mostly sand, have frequently been found lying alongside drainage channels, which shows...that the debris was not always carted away when the drain was cleared". From Ernest Mackay, Early Indus Civilisation, 1948 Drainage systems were not unique to the larger cities, but were found in smaller settlements as well. At Lothal for example, while houses were built of mud bricks, drains were made of burnt bricks.

Q40.CBSE 2025 · 4 marks

31.1 Analyse the possible reason behind the uniformity in the drainage systems across the Harappan cities.

Q41.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

33.1 Analyse the possible reason behind the uniformity in the drainage systems across the Harappan cities.

Q42.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

32.1 Analyse the possible reason behind the uniformity in the drainage systems across the Harappan cities.

Case study · CBSE 2025

Archaeogenetic Research As you can see, a careful re-examination of the data can sometimes lead to a reversal of earlier interpretations. In this respect, it is necessary to mention the recent archaeogenetic research carried out at the site of Rakhigarhi. The site, located in Hisar district of Haryana, is the biggest Harappan city, spread over an area of 550 Hectare. In order to study the genetic history of the Harappans, DNA was extracted from the skeletal remains excavated at Rakhigarhi. This research was carried out by The Deccan College Deemed University, Pune in collaboration with Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad and The Harvard Medical College. The analysis of the data indicates that the Harappans are the indigenous people of this region. The genetic roots of the Harappans go back to 10,000 BCE. The DNA of the Harappans has continued till today and a majority of the South Asian population appears to be their descendants. Due to trade and cultural contacts of the Harappans with distant regions there is a mixture of genes in small quantity. The continuity without any break in genetic history as well as cultural history rules out large scale immigration of the so-called Aryans. This research also indicates that the people coming from bordering areas and distant regions were absorbed in the Indian society. At no stage, the genetic history of the Indians was either discontinued or broken. As the Harappans started moving towards Iran and Central Asia, their genes also gradually spread in these regions. The same team of researchers reconstructed 3D features of the Harappan people. The reconstructed facial features of the Harappans, male and female, show remarkable similarity with the modern population of Haryana. Thus, this study has indicated unbroken continuity for 5000 years in this region.

Q43.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

How does the research at Rakhigarhi contribute to understanding of ancient civilizations?

Case study · CBSE 2025

As you can see, a careful re-examination of the data can sometimes lead to a reversal of earlier interpretations. In this respect, it is necessary to mention the recent archaeogenetic research carried out at the site of Rakhigarhi. The site, located in Hisar district of Haryana, is the biggest Harappan city, spread over an area of 550 Hectare. In order to study the genetic history of the Harappans, DNA was extracted from the skeletal remains excavated at Rakhigarhi. This research was carried out by The Deccan College Deemed University, Pune in collaboration with Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad and The Harvard Medical College. The analysis of the data indicates that the Harappans are the indigenous people of this region. The genetic roots of the Harappans go back to 10,000 BCE. The DNA of the Harappans has continued till today and a majority of the South Asian population appears to be their descendants. Due to trade and cultural contacts of the Harappans with distant regions there is a mixture of genes in small quantity. The continuity without any break in genetic history as well as cultural history rules out large scale immigration of the so-called Aryans. This research also indicates that the people coming from bordering areas and distant regions were absorbed in the Indian society. At no stage, the genetic history of the Indians was either discontinued or broken. As the Harappans started moving towards Iran and Central Asia, their genes also gradually spread in these regions. The same team of researchers reconstructed 3D features of the Harappan people. The reconstructed facial features of the Harappans, male and female, show remarkable similarity with the modern population of Haryana. Thus, this study has indicated unbroken continuity for 5000 years in this region.

Q44.CBSE 2025 · 4 marks

How does the research at Rakhigarhi contribute to understanding of ancient civilizations?

Case study · CBSE 2025

Harappan Settlements. So far, more than 2000 Harappan archaeological sites have been discovered in the Indian sub-continent. Most of the sites are found located between the Indus and the Saraswati River basins. Nearly two-thirds of these settlements are in the Saraswati basin, suggesting its immense importance for the Harappan Civilisation. Among these, five major cities have been identified. These are Rakhigarhi, Mohenjodaro, Harappa, Dholavira and Ganweriwala. The remaining sites come under different categories such as Regional Centres, agricultural villages, ports and manufacturing centres.

Q45.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Examine the significance of the concentration of Harappan settlements in the Saraswati Basin.

Case study · CBSE 2025

So far, more than 2000 Harappan archaeological sites have been discovered in the Indian sub-continent. Most of the sites are found located between the Indus and the Saraswati River basins. Nearly two-thirds of these settlements are in the Saraswati basin, suggesting its immense importance for the Harappan Civilisation. Among these, five major cities have been identified. These are Rakhigarhi, Mohenjodaro, Harappa, Dholavira and Ganweriwala. The remaining sites come under different categories such as Regional Centres, agricultural villages, ports and manufacturing centres.

Q46.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Examine the significance of the concentration of Harappan settlements in the Saraswati Basin.

Case study · CBSE 2023

How artefacts are identified. Processing of food required grinding equipment as well as vessels for mixing, blending and cooking. These were made of stone, metal and terracotta. This is an excerpt from one of the earliest reports on excavations at Mohenjodaro, the best-known Harappan site: Saddle querns ... are found in considerable numbers ... and they seem to have been the only means in use for grinding cereals. As a rule, they were roughly made of hard, gritty, igneous rock or sandstone and mostly show signs of hard usage. As their bases are usually convex, they must have been set in the earth or in mud to prevent their rocking. Two main types have been found: those on which another smaller stone was pushed or rolled to and fro, and others with which a second stone was used as a pounder, eventually making a large cavity in the nether stone. Querns of the former type were probably used solely for grain; the second type possibly only for pounding herbs and spices for making curries. In fact our cook asked for the loan of one from the museum for use in the kitchen. (From Ernest Mackay, Further Excavations at Mohenjodaro)

Q47.CBSE 2023 · 4 marks

(31.1) How do archaeologists classify their finds?

Q48.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

How do archaeologists classify their finds?

2Kings, Farmers and Towns: Early States and Economies Notes & MCQs →

Multiple choice and assertion-reason (29)

Q1.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Two statements labelled as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and select the correct option: Assertion (A): James Prinsep's work was crucial for understanding the political history of ancient India. Reason (R): Deciphering inscriptions provided insights into political events and rulers.

  1. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  2. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  3. Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
  4. Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
Q2.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Match Column-I with Column-II and choose the correct option from the following: Column-I (Ancient Mahajanpadas) - Column-II (Present Region) a. Magadha - I. Qandhar (Eastern Afghanistan) b. Avanti - II. Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) c. Gandhara - III. Patna (Bihar) d. Kosala - IV. Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh)

  1. a-II, b-III, c-I, d-IV
  2. a-IV, b-I, c-III, d-II
  3. a-III, b-IV, c-I, d-II
  4. a-II, b-III, c-IV, d-I
Q3.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Match Column-I with Column-II and choose the correct option from the following: Column-I (Ancient Mahajanpadas) - Column-II (Present Region) a. Magadh - I. Qandhar (Eastern Afghanistan) b. Avanti - II. Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) c. Gandhara - III. Patna (Bihar) d. Koshala - IV. Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh)

  1. III, II, I, IV
  2. IV, II, I, III
  3. III, IV, I, II
  4. II, I, III, IV
Q4.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following dynasties did Queen Prabhavati belong to?

  1. Kanvas
  2. Shakas
  3. Vakataka
  4. Maurya
Q5.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Identify the ancient rulers of India from the given options using the provided information.

  1. Mauryas and Guptas
  2. Nandas and Cholas
  3. Satavahanas and Kushanas
  4. Shungas and Kanvas
Q6.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following correctly associates a city with its primary route of communication during the sixth century BCE?

  1. Pataliputra – Sea route; Ujjayini – Land route; Puhar – Riverine route; Mathura – Coastal route
  2. Pataliputra – Riverine route; Ujjayini – Land route; Puhar – Coastal route; Mathura – Land route
  3. Pataliputra – Land route; Ujjayini – Coastal route; Puhar – Riverine route; Mathura – Sea route
  4. Pataliputra – Coastal route; Ujjayini – Land route; Puhar – Coastal route; Mathura – Sea route
Q7.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Identify the ruler of ancient India with the help of following information: He was the most powerful of the Gupta rulers. He was a patron of art and Sanskrit literature. He was considered equal to the Gods by his people.

  1. Chandragupta
  2. Samudragupta
  3. Srigupta
  4. Kumaragupta
Q8.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

How did Ashoka spread the principle of dhamma across his empire? Choose the correct option from the following.

  1. Through military conquests
  2. Through educational institutions
  3. Through inscribed edicts on pillars and rocks
  4. Through diplomatic alliances
Q9.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Identify the ruler of ancient India with the help of the given information and choose the correct option: • He got the title of Devanampiya. • He distributed a portion of Buddha's relics for stupas. • He was the first ruler who inscribed messages on rocks and pillars.

  1. Samudragupta
  2. Harshavardhan
  3. Rudradaman
  4. Asoka
Q10.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Consider the following statements about Prabhavati Gupta and choose the correct option: (i) She was the daughter of Chandragupta Maurya. (ii) She was married to a Vakataka ruler. (iii) She had independent access to resources. (iv) She gave land grants to people.

  1. (i), (ii) and (iii)
  2. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
  3. (i), (iii) and (iv)
  4. (i), (ii) and (iv)
Q11.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Read the following statements about the Mauryan Empire: I. The growth of Magadha culminated in the emergence of the Mauryan Empire. II. Chandragupta Maurya founded the Mauryan Empire. III. Kautilya was the successor of Chandragupta Maurya. IV. Asoka was the son of Chandragupta Maurya. Which of the above statements are correct?

  1. I and III
  2. I and II
  3. III and IV
  4. II and III
Q12.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Identify the ancient dynasty with the help of the following information: They issued spectacular gold coins. Their history can be reconstructed through Prashastis. Harisena was the court poet of one of its rulers.

  1. Chola dynasty
  2. Satavahana dynasty
  3. Kushana dynasty
  4. Gupta dynasty
Q13.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following options are correct regarding Magadha? I. Magadha was the most powerful Mahajanapada. II. Rajgaha was the capital of Magadha. III. Magadha was in a semi-arid area. IV. Magadha was rich in natural resources.

  1. I, II and IV are correct
  2. I, II and III are correct
  3. I, III and IV are correct
  4. II, III and IV are correct
Q14.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Arrange the following in chronological order and choose the correct option: I. Rule of Asoka II. Rule of Mahapadma Nanda III. Rule of Harshavardha IV. Rule of Samudragupta

  1. I, III, IV, II
  2. III, II, I, IV
  3. II, I, IV, III
  4. IV, III, I, II
Q15.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following options are correct regarding Magadha?

  1. I, II and IV are correct
  2. I, II and III are correct
  3. I, III and IV are correct
  4. II, III and IV are correct
Q16.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Arrange the following in chronological order and choose the correct option: I. Rule of Asoka II. Rule of Mahapadma Nanda III. Rule of Harshavardhan IV. Rule of Samudragupta

  1. I, III, IV, II
  2. III, II, I, IV
  3. II, I, IV, III
  4. IV, III, I, II
Q17.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Arrange the following events in a chronological order and choose the correct option:

I. Beginning of Gupta rule II. End of Mauryan Empire III. Rise of Pallavas in Tamil Nadu IV. Rise of Harshavardhana as a king of Kannauj

  1. I, III, II and IV
  2. II, I, III and IV
  3. III, IV, I and II
  4. IV, I, II and III
Q18.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Arrange the following in chronological order and choose the correct option from the following: I. Rule of Ashoka II. Invasion of Alexander III. Rule of Gupta dynasty IV. Rise of Chalukyas in Karnataka

  1. I, III, II and IV
  2. IV, II, I and III
  3. II, I, III and IV
  4. III, IV, II and I
Q19.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Arrange the following events in a chronological order and choose the correct option: I. Beginning of Gupta rule II. End of Mauryan Empire III. Rise of Pallavas in Tamil Nadu IV. Rise of Harshavardhana as a king of Kannauj

  1. I, III, II and IV
  2. II, I, III and IV
  3. III, IV, I and II
  4. IV, I, II and III
Q20.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following was able to decipher the script of the Brahmi?

  1. Harisena
  2. Megasthenes
  3. James Princep
  4. Kautilya
Q21.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following rulers re-constructed Sudarshan Lake ?

  1. Siri Satakarni
  2. Sakasena
  3. Siri Vijaya Satakarni
  4. Rudradaman
Q22.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following was the first ruler to inscribe messages to his subjects and officials ?

  1. Chandragupta
  2. Samudragupta
  3. Ashoka
  4. Bindusara
Q23.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which ruler restored Sudarshana Lake?

  1. Siri Satakarni
  2. Sakasena
  3. Siri Vijaya Satakarni
  4. Rudradaman
Q24.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which one of the following is the oldest dynasty?

  1. Maurya
  2. Gupta
  3. Kushana
  4. Kanva
Q25.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following is the correct chronology of the rulers of ancient India? (i) Chandragupta Maurya (ii) Ajatashatru (iii) Mahapadma Nanda (iv) Ashoka. Choose the correct option:

  1. (i), (ii), (iii), (iv)
  2. (ii), (iv), (iii), (i)
  3. (iii), (ii), (i), (iv)
  4. (ii), (iii), (i), (iv)
Q26.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following is the correct chronology of the rulers of ancient India? (i) Chandragupta Maurya (ii) Ajatashatru (iii) Mahapadma Nanda (iv) Ashoka Choose the correct option:

  1. (i), (ii), (iii), (iv)
  2. (ii), (iv), (iii), (i)
  3. (iii), (ii), (i), (iv)
  4. (ii), (iii), (i), (iv)
Q27.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following statements is correct about Prabhavati Gupta?

  1. She was a Gupta Queen
  2. She had no access to resources
  3. She donated land to elites
  4. She was the daughter of Chandragupta II
Q28.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following founded the Mauryan Empire?

  1. Ashoka
  2. Kautilya
  3. Chandragupta Maurya
  4. Vikramaditya
Q29.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which among the following dynasties issued the first gold coins in the first century CE ?

  1. The Mauryas
  2. The Satvahanas
  3. The Kushans
  4. The Cholas

Very short answer (2)

Q30.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Name any important town of ancient India. (For Visually Impaired candidates only)

Q31.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Between the sixth and the fourth centuries BCE, Magadha became the most powerful Mahajanapada. Explain the statement with examples.

Short answer (17)

Q32.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

"Ashokan inscriptions are the most significant sources to understand the administration of Ashoka." Explain the statement.

Q33.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Explain any three sources to know about Maurya Empire.

Q34.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Explain any three sources to know about Gupta Empire.

Q35.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Explain any three features of ancient Indian coinage.

Q36.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

"Coinage played a significant role in the expansion of early Indian empires." Explain the statement with examples.

Q37.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

"Magadha became a prominent political centre in the ancient India." Explain the statement with examples.

Q38.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Analyse any three limitations of inscriptional evidences.

Q39.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain any three sources to know about the Mauryan empire.

Q40.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

"The emergence of the Mauryan empire was regarded as a major landmark in the Indian history." Explain the statement.

Q41.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

How did the coinage in ancient India contribute to trade and development? Explain with examples.

Q42.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

"Historians have used a variety of sources to reconstruct the history of the Mauryan empire." Explain the statement with examples.

Q43.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Analyse the various sources to know about the Mauryan Empire.

Q44.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain any three sources on which the histories of Gupta rulers have been reconstructed.

Q45.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

"The epigraphy alone does not provide a full understanding of political and economic history." Explain the statement with examples.

Q46.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

(a) Between the sixth and fourth centuries BCE, Mahajanapadas became the most powerful political units. Explain this statement with examples.

Q47.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Between the sixth and fourth centuries BCE, Magadha became the most powerful Mahajanpada. Explain this statement with examples.

Q48.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

(a) Between the sixth and fourth century BCE, Magadha became the most powerful mahajanapada. Explain this statement with examples.

Long answer (8)

Q49.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

Examine the nature and characteristics of the land grants in ancient Indian society.

Q50.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

In what ways do the challenges of inscriptional evidences restrict our ability to understand the past? Explain with examples.

Q51.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

'The Mauryan empire had a strong administration.' Examine the statement.

Q52.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

How do historical sources help us to understand the Mauryan empire? Analyse the role of Ashoka in shaping its legacy.

Q53.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

"Although inscriptions provide strong evidence for reconstructing history yet there are few limitations to these evidences." Justify the statement.

Q54.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

"The sixth century BCE was a period of emergence of early states, empires and diverse thoughts in the early Indian history." Justify the statement.

Q55.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

"Magadha became the most powerful Mahajanpada between 6th and 4th centuries BCE." Justify the statement.

Q56.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

Explain how the Mauryan ruler used both force and diplomacy to expand his territory.

Case-based (6)

Case study · CBSE 2025

The Anguish of the King. When the king Devanampiya Piyadassi had been ruling for eight years, the (country of the) Kalingas (present-day coastal Orissa) was conquered by (him). One hundred and fifty thousand men were deported, a hundred thousand were killed, and many more died. After that, now that (the country of) the Kalingas has been taken, Devanampiya (is devoted) to an intense study of Dhamma, to the love of Dhamma, and to instructing (the people) in Dhamma. This is the repentance of Devanampiya on account of his conquest of the (country of the) Kalingas. For this is considered very painful and deplorable by Devanampiya that, while one is conquering an unconquered (country) slaughter, death and deportation of people (take place) there…

Q57.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

How did king Devanampiya Piyadassi's conquest of Kalinga influence his approach to governance?

Case study · CBSE 2025

When the king Devanampiya Piyadassi had been ruling for eight years, the (country of the) Kalingas (present-day coastal Orissa) was conquered by (him). One hundred and fifty thousand men were deported, a hundred thousand were killed, and many more died. After that, now that (the country of) the Kalingas has been taken, Devanampiya (is devoted) to an intense study of Dhamma, to the love of Dhamma, and to instructing (the people) in Dhamma. This is the repentance of Devanampiya on account of his conquest of the (country of the) Kalingas. For this is considered very painful and deplorable by Devanampiya that, while one is conquering an unconquered (country) slaughter, death and deportation of people (take place) there…

Q58.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

How did king Devanampiya Piyadassi's conquest of Kalinga influence his approach to governance?

Case study · CBSE 2024

The orders of the king. Thus speaks king Devanampiya Piyadassi: In the past, there were no arrangements for disposing affairs, nor for receiving regular reports. But I have made the following (arrangement). Pativedakas should report to me about the affairs of the people at all times, anywhere, whether I am eating, in the inner apartment, in the bedroom, in the cow pen, being carried (possibly in a palanquin), or in the garden. And I will dispose of the affairs of the people everywhere.

Q59.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who was referred to as Devanampiya Piyadassi?

Case study · CBSE 2023

Capturing elephants for the army The Arthashastra lays down minute details of administrative and military organisation. This is what it says about how to capture elephants: Guards of elephant forests, assisted by those who rear elephants, those who enchain the legs of elephants, those who guard the boundaries, those who live in forests, as well as by those who nurse elephants, shall, with the help of five or seven female elephants to help in tethering wild ones, trace the whereabouts of herds of elephants by following the course of urine and dung left by elephants. According to Greek sources, the Mauryan ruler had a standing army of 600,000 foot-soldiers, 30,000 cavalry and 9,000 elephants. Some historians consider these accounts to be exaggerated.

Q60.CBSE 2023 · 4 marks

Who is the author of Arthashastra ?

Case study · CBSE 2023

Here is an excerpt from the account of Megasthenes: Of the great officers of state, some . . . superintend the rivers, measure the land, as is done in Egypt, and inspect the sluices by which water is let out from the main canals into their branches, so that every one may have an equal supply of it. The same persons have charge also of the huntsmen, and are entrusted with the powers of rewarding or punishing them according to their deserts. They collect the taxes, and superintend the occupations connected with land; as those of the woodcutters, the carpenters, the blacksmiths, and the miners.

Q61.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who was Megasthenes?

Case study · CBSE 2023

Of the great officers of state, some . . . superintend the rivers, measure the land, as is done in Egypt, and inspect the sluices by which water is let out from the main canals into their branches, so that every one may have an equal supply of it. The same persons have charge also of the huntsmen, and are entrusted with the powers of rewarding or punishing them according to their deserts. They collect the taxes, and superintend the occupations connected with land; as those of the woodcutters, the carpenters, the blacksmiths, and the miners.

Q62.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who was Megasthenes ?

3Kinship, Caste and Class: Early Societies Notes & MCQs →

Multiple choice and assertion-reason (24)

Q1.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Identify the ancient rulers of India from the given options using the provided information. • They belonged to important ruling lineage. • They were the immediate successors of the Mauryas. • They were Brahmanas.

  1. Mauryas and Guptas
  2. Nandas and Cholas
  3. Satavahanas and Kushanas
  4. Shungas and Kanvas
Q2.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following is a correct statement regarding the codes of social behaviour as laid down in Dharamasutras and Dharmashastras during the period of Mahabharata?

  1. These norms were to be followed by the Brahmins only.
  2. These norms were being followed universally.
  3. These norms were not followed universally.
  4. Only the rulers followed these norms.
Q3.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following dynasties did Queen Prabhavati belong to?

  1. Kanvas
  2. Shakas
  3. Vakataka
  4. Maurya
Q4.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following is a correct statement regarding the codes of social behaviour as laid down in Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras during the period of Mahabharata?

  1. These norms were to be followed by the Brahmins only.
  2. These norms were being followed universally.
  3. These norms were not followed universally.
  4. Only the rulers followed these norms.
Q5.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Why is Mahabharata called a dynamic text? Choose the most suitable option from the following.

  1. It remains unchanged and consistent in all versions.
  2. It has been reinterpreted across various contexts.
  3. It focuses solely on historical facts.
  4. It is a fixed text with no variations over time.
Q6.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Identify the ancient Indian text with the help of the following information: • Sanskrit text compiled between c. 200 BCE and 200 CE. • Provided a comprehensive code of laws. • Offered guidelines on various aspects of social life.

  1. Manusmriti
  2. Ramayana
  3. Upanishads
  4. Vedas
Q7.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following is a characteristic of the narrative sections of the Mahabharata ?

  1. They contain economic descriptions
  2. They contain compiled stories
  3. They describe cultural rituals
  4. They are philosophical discussions
Q8.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Two statements labelled as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and select the correct option: Assertion (A): In ancient India, Gotra system was a way to trace lineage. Reason (R): Gotra was an exogamous unit, marriage within the same Gotra was not allowed.

  1. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  2. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  3. Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
  4. Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
Q9.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option with reference to Mahabharata. Column I (Character): a. Yudhisthira, b. Dhritarashtra, c. Kunti, d. Gandhari. Column II (Role): i. Mother of the Pandavas, ii. Mother of the Kauravas, iii. Eldest of the Pandavas, iv. Father of Duryodhana.

  1. a-ii, b-iv, c-iii, d-i
  2. a-iv, b-iii, c-ii, d-i
  3. a-iii, b-iv, c-i, d-ii
  4. a-i, b-iii, c-iv, d-ii
Q10.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Prabhavati Gupta is best known for which of the following roles?

  1. Wife of Ashoka and Promoter of Buddhist Sangha
  2. Queen of Mauryan Empire and Promoter of Buddhism
  3. Wife of Samudragupta and Poet of the Gupta Era
  4. Daughter of Chandragupta-II and Wife of Vakataka King
Q11.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Consider the following statements about Prabhavati Gupta and choose the correct option: (i) She was the daughter of Chandragupta Maurya. (ii) She was married to a Vakataka ruler. (iii) She had independent access to resources. (iv) She gave land grants to people.

  1. (i), (ii) and (iii)
  2. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
  3. (i), (iii) and (iv)
  4. (i), (ii) and (iv)
Q12.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following pairs is correctly matched?

  1. Endogamy – Marriage outside the unit
  2. Exogamy – Man having several wives
  3. Polygyny – Marriage inside the unit
  4. Polyandry – Woman having several husbands
Q13.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following clans did Buddha belong to?

  1. Sakya
  2. Kosala
  3. Bhoja
  4. Pala
Q14.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Panini's book 'Ashtadhyayi' is based on which of the following themes?

  1. Puranas
  2. Grammar
  3. Mathematics
  4. Medicine (Ayurveda)
Q15.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option: Column I (Characters of Mahabharata): 1. Duryodhana (i) Son of Hidimba 2. Gandhari (ii) Eldest son of Dhritarashtra 3. Kunti (iii) Mother of Pandavas 4. Ghatotkacha (iv) Mother of Duryodhana

  1. 1-(iv), 2-(iii), 3-(ii), 4-(i)
  2. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iv), 4-(iii)
  3. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iii), 4-(iv)
  4. 1-(ii), 2-(iv), 3-(iii), 4-(i)
Q16.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who among the following initiated the task of preparing the critical edition of Mahabharata?

  1. D.N. Jha
  2. Irawati Karve
  3. V.S. Sukthankar
  4. Ram Karan Sharma
Q17.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option: Column I (Characters of Mahabharata) 1. Duryodhana 2. Gandhari 3. Kunti 4. Ghatotkacha Column II (Role) (i) Son of Hidimba (ii) Eldest son of Dhritarashtra (iii) Mother of Pandavas (iv) Mother of Duryodhana

  1. 1-(iv), 2-(iii), 3-(ii), 4-(i)
  2. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iv), 4-(iii)
  3. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iii), 4-(iv)
  4. 1-(ii), 2-(iv), 3-(iii), 4-(i)
Q18.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Identify the character of Mahabharata with the help of following information: He was the son of Bheema. He belonged to Rakshasa clan from maternal side.

  1. Duryodhan
  2. Abhimanyu
  3. Ghatotkatch
  4. Bheeshama
Q19.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

The practice of ____________ means a man having several wives.

  1. Exogamy
  2. Endogamy
  3. Polygyny
  4. Polyandry
Q20.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Sushruta's book 'Sushruta Samhita' is based on which of the following theme?

  1. Grammar
  2. Medicine (Ayurveda)
  3. Astronomy
  4. Mathematics
Q21.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option: Column I (Characters of Mahabharata): 1. Duryodhana 2. Gandhari 3. Kunti 4. Ghatotkacha | Column II (Role): (i) Son of Hidimba (ii) Eldest son of Dhritrashtra (iii) Mother of Pandavas (iv) Mother of Duryodhana

  1. 1-(iv), 2-(iii), 3-(ii), 4-(i)
  2. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iv), 4-(iii)
  3. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iii), 4-(iv)
  4. 1-(ii), 2-(iv), 3-(iii), 4-(i)
Q22.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Identify the character of Mahabharata with the help of following information: She belonged to Rakshasa clan. She was married to Bheema. She was the mother of Ghatotkatcha.

  1. Bhilni
  2. Subhadra
  3. Draupadi
  4. Hidimba
Q23.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Identify the character of the Mahabharata for the following information: Was a nishad; Considered Dronacharya as his Guru; Gave his right thumb to Dronacharya as Guru dakshina

  1. Ghatotkatch
  2. Eklavya
  3. Nakul
  4. Sahdeva
Q24.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following statements is correct about Prabhavati Gupta?

  1. She was a Gupta Queen
  2. She had no access to resources
  3. She donated land to elites
  4. She was the daughter of Chandragupta II

Short answer (18)

Q25.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

"Ashoka's inscriptions are the most significant sources to understand the administration of Ashoka." Explain the statement.

Q26.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

"Historians consider several elements when they analyse the Mahabharata." Substantiate the statement with suitable examples.

Q27.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

"Many communities during the Mahabharata period had different social practices from Brahmanical ideas." Substantiate the statement with examples.

Q28.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

In what ways do the Jain teachings influence the ethical and spiritual practices of the believers? Explain with examples.

Q29.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Describe different patterns of marriages that influenced familial relations during the Mahabharata period.

Q30.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Describe the processes adopted by V.S. Sukthankar and his team in preparing the critical edition of the Mahabharata.

Q31.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Examine the duties to be performed by Kshatriyas as codified in Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras in the ancient India.

Q32.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Mahabharata explores a variety of themes. Examine the statement.

Q33.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

(a) "Mahabharata is a dynamic text." Justify the statement.

Q34.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

How was patriliny system important among the elite families from sixth century BCE onwards. Explain with examples.

Q35.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Why do historians analyse familial values and kinship of Mahabharata? Explain.

Q36.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

"Mahabharat is a dynamic text." Explain the statement.

Q37.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

How is Mahabharata a dynamic text ? Explain with examples.

Q38.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

How did Mahabharata reinforce the idea of patrilineality ? Explain.

Q39.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain how Brahmins evolved different strategies to enforce social norms of varna order.

Q40.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Why is Mahabharata considered as a dynamic text? Explain.

Q41.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain the elements historians have analyzed to understand Mahabharata as a text.

Q42.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain the familial values during Mahabharata.

Long answer (8)

Q43.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

"There were specific features of the familial relationship during the Mahabharata period." Explain the statement with examples.

Q44.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Historians have studied many rules and varied practices of familial ties during the Mahabharata period. Explain the statement with examples.

Q45.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

"In the ancient India, the Kingship was not only with Kshatriyas but also with Non-Kshatriyas." Explain the statement with examples.

Q46.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

There are evidences that suggest that the Brahmnical prescription about occupation and rules of marriage were not universally followed in the ancient India. Explain this statement with examples.

Q47.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

According to the Brahmanical theory, only Kshatriyas could be kings in the early states, however several other ruling lineages probably had different origins. Explain the statement with examples from ancient India.

Q48.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

According to Shastras (Brahmanical theory), only Kshatriyas could be kings in the early states, however several other ruling lineages probably had different origins. Explain this statement with examples from ancient India.

Q49.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

According to Brahmanical theory, only Kshatriyas could be kings in the early states, however several other ruling lineages probably had different origins. Explain the statement with examples from ancient India.

Q50.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

Despite the subcontinent being diverse, there have been populations in early states, whose social practices were not influenced by the Brahmanical ideas. Explain this statement.

Case-based (2)

Case study · CBSE 2024

What the silk weavers did. Here is an excerpt from the inscription, which is in Sanskrit: Some are intensely attached to music (so) pleasing to the ear; others, being proud of (the authorship of) a hundred excellent biographies, are conversant with wonderful tales; (others), filled with humility, are absorbed in excellent religious discourses; ... some excel in their own religious rites; likewise by others, who were self-possessed, the science of (Vedic) astronomy was mastered.

Q51.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

How was love for music expressed in the inscription?

Q52.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

What the silk weavers did Here is an excerpt from the inscription, which is in Sanskrit: Some are intensely attached to music (so) pleasing to the ear; others, being proud of (the authorship of) a hundred excellent biographies, are conversant with wonderful tales; (others), filled with humility, are absorbed in excellent religious discourses; ... some excel in their own religious rites; likewise by others, who were self-possessed, the science of (Vedic) astronomy was mastered. Question (32.1): How was love for music expressed in the inscription?

4Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings: Cultural Developments Notes & MCQs →

Multiple choice and assertion-reason (33)

Q1.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II regarding the Buddhist texts and choose the correct option from the following: Column I (Buddhist Text): a. Vinaya Pitaka, b. Abhidhamma Pitaka, c. Dipavamsa, d. Mahavamsa. Column II (Description): i. Rules and regulations for monastic order, ii. Chronicle of the island, iii. Regional histories of Buddha, iv. Dealt with philosophical matters.

  1. a-iii, b-i, c-ii, d-iv
  2. a-iii, b-iv, c-i, d-ii
  3. a-i, b-ii, c-iii, d-iv
  4. a-i, b-iv, c-ii, d-iii
Q2.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Fill in the blank with the appropriate word from the given options: In Jainism, the practice of severe asceticism and non-attachment is intended to achieve ____________, which is liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

  1. Ahimsa
  2. Karma
  3. Moksha
  4. Dharma
Q3.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Two statements have been given below as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read the statements and choose the appropriate answer: Assertion (A): Buddhism grew rapidly both during the lifetime and after the death of Buddha. Reason (R): Many people were dissatisfied with existing religious practices and confused by the rapid social changes taking place around them.

  1. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct reasoning of (A).
  2. Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct reasoning of (A).
  3. (A) is true, (R) is untrue.
  4. (A) is untrue, (R) is true.
Q4.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Consider the following statements regarding Jainism and choose the correct option: I. The cycle of birth and rebirth is shaped through Karma. II. There is a need to renounce the world. III. Worldly existence is a necessary condition for attaining salvation. IV. Principle of Ahimsa is important.

  1. I, II and III
  2. II, III and IV
  3. I, II and IV
  4. I, III and IV
Q5.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Throughout his extensive travels, Ibn Batuta was able to explore unfamiliar cultures and societies. Which of the following competencies did he most likely develop?

  1. Leadership and Judicial Management
  2. Cultural Competencies and Skills
  3. Knowledge of Administration and Army
  4. Scientific and Technical expertise
Q6.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Match Column-I with Column-II and choose the correct option: Column-I (Sculpture of Sanchi) with Column-II (Symbolic Importance): a) Empty seat - i) Indicator of Mahaparinibbana, b) Gajlakshmi - ii) Indicator of good fortune, c) Wheel - iii) Indicator of auspicious, d) Shalbhanjika - iv) Indicator of first sermon of Buddha

  1. a-i, b-ii, c-iv, d-iii
  2. a-ii, b-iii, c-i, d-iv
  3. a-ii, b-i, c-iv, d-iii
  4. a-iv, b-i, c-iii, d-ii
Q7.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Identify the ruler from Indian history with following information: Ruler of Bhopal, Ruled from 1868 to 1901 CE, Helped in preserving the Sanchi Stupa

  1. Jehanara Begum
  2. Shahjehan Begum
  3. Gulbadan Begum
  4. Rukhsaar Begum
Q8.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Match Column-I with Column-II and choose the correct option: Column-I (Sculpture of Sanchi): a) Empty seat, b) Gajlakshmi, c) Wheel, d) Shalbhanjika. Column-II (Symbolic Importance): i) Indicator of Mahaparinibbana, ii) Indicator of good fortune, iii) Indicator of auspicious, iv) Indicator of first sermon of Buddha

  1. a-i, b-ii, c-iv, d-iii
  2. a-ii, b-iii, c-i, d-iv
  3. a-ii, b-i, c-iv, d-iii
  4. a-iv, b-i, c-iii, d-ii
Q9.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Two statements labelled as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and select the correct option: Assertion (A): The Tripitaka written in Pali is one of the primary collections of Buddhist scriptures. Reason (R): The Tripitaka consists of three collections, which include the Vinaya Pitaka, the Sutta Pitaka and the Abhidhamma Pitaka.

  1. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  2. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  3. Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
  4. Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
Q10.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Why is Mahabharata called a dynamic text? Choose the most suitable option from the following.

  1. It remains unchanged and consistent in all versions.
  2. It has been reinterpreted across various contexts.
  3. It focuses solely on historical facts.
  4. It is a fixed text with no variations over time.
Q11.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Find the odd one out from the following regarding the Buddhist texts:

  1. Dipavamsa, Mahavamsa, Sutta Pitaka
  2. Sutta Pitaka, Abhidhamma Pitaka, Vinaya Pitaka
  3. Ashokavadana, Mahavamsa, Jatakas
  4. Uttaradhyayana Sutta, Sutta Pitaka, Vinaya Pitaka
Q12.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Identify the ruler of ancient India with the help of following information: He was the most powerful of the Gupta rulers. He was a patron of art and Sanskrit literature. He was considered equal to the Gods by his people.

  1. Chandragupta
  2. Samudragupta
  3. Srigupta
  4. Kumaragupta
Q13.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Identify the ruler of ancient India with the help of the given information and choose the correct option: He got the title of Devanampiya. He distributed a portion of Buddha's relics for stupas. He was the first ruler who inscribed messages on rocks and pillars.

  1. Samudragupta
  2. Harshavardhana
  3. Rudradaman
  4. Asoka
Q14.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option: Column I (Sculpture of Sanchi): 1. Empty Seat (i) Symbol of good fortune 2. Wheel (ii) Auspicious symbol 3. Shalabhanjika (iii) First sermon of Buddha 4. Gajalakshmi (iv) Mahaparinibbana

  1. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iii), 4-(iv)
  2. 1-(i), 2-(ii), 3-(iv), 4-(iii)
  3. 1-(iv), 2-(iii), 3-(ii), 4-(i)
  4. 1-(iii), 2-(iv), 3-(i), 4-(ii)
Q15.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option: Column I (Sculpture of Sanchi): 1. Empty Seat, 2. Wheel, 3. Shalabhanjika, 4. Gajalakshmi. Column II (Symbolism): (i) Symbol of good fortune, (ii) Auspicious symbol, (iii) First sermon of Buddha, (iv) Mahaparinibbana.

  1. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iii), 4-(iv)
  2. 1-(i), 2-(ii), 3-(iv), 4-(iii)
  3. 1-(iv), 2-(iii), 3-(ii), 4-(i)
  4. 1-(iii), 2-(iv), 3-(i), 4-(ii)
Q16.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option: Column I (Ancient Temples): 1. Deogarh, 2. Mahabalipuram, 3. Kailashnatha, 4. Barabar. Column II (Locations): (i) Tamil Nadu, (ii) Maharashtra, (iii) Bihar, (iv) Uttar Pradesh.

  1. 1-(i), 2-(ii), 3-(iii), 4-(iv)
  2. 1-(ii), 2-(iii), 3-(iv), 4-(i)
  3. 1-(iv), 2-(i), 3-(ii), 4-(iii)
  4. 1-(iii), 2-(iv), 3-(i), 4-(ii)
Q17.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Arrange the following in chronological order and choose the correct option: I. Rule of Asoka II. Rule of Mahapadma Nanda III. Rule of Harshavardhan IV. Rule of Samudragupta

  1. I, III, IV, II
  2. III, II, I, IV
  3. II, I, IV, III
  4. IV, III, I, II
Q18.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

The first Sermon of the Buddha was delivered at ______.

  1. Bodh Gaya
  2. Amravati
  3. Sarnath
  4. Sanchi
Q19.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Write the appropriate option from the given in your answer sheet. The first Sermon of the Buddha was delivered at ______.

  1. Bodh Gaya
  2. Amravati
  3. Sarnath
  4. Sanchi
Q20.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

In which of the following states Sanchi Stupis located?

  1. Uttar Pradesh
  2. Madhya Pradesh
  3. Arunachal Pradesh
  4. Andhra Pradesh
Q21.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Assertion (A): In the Eighth Century, the Kailashnath Temple was carved out of mountain. Reason (R): King Ashoka had given the directive to create artificial caves by cutting into the mountains to resemble temples. Choose the correct option:

  1. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
  2. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
  3. (A) is true, but (R) is untrue.
  4. (A) is untrue, but (R) is true.
Q22.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

In which of the following states Sanchi Stupa is located?

  1. Uttar Pradesh
  2. Madhya Pradesh
  3. Arunachal Pradesh
  4. Andhra Pradesh
Q23.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which one of the following is not a structural feature of Stupa ?

  1. Harmika
  2. Chhatri
  3. Garbhagriha
  4. Gateways
Q24.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

In which state of India is the fifth century temple, Devgarh situated ?

  1. Bihar
  2. West Bengal
  3. Orissa
  4. Uttar Pradesh
Q25.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following was the first ruler to inscribe messages to his subjects and officials ?

  1. Chandragupta
  2. Samudragupta
  3. Ashoka
  4. Bindusara
Q26.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Identify the work on the subject of Sulbasutras from the following options:

  1. Work on Constellation
  2. Work on Mathematics
  3. Work on Medicine
  4. Work on Grammar
Q27.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following is not a literature of Buddhism?

  1. Vinaya Pitaka and Sutta Pitaka
  2. Dipavamsa and Mahavamsa
  3. Jataka Stories and Ashokavadana
  4. Uttaradhyayana Sutra and Tattvartha Sutra
Q28.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following Chinese Buddhist monks visited India in the fifth century (CE)?

  1. Xuan Zang
  2. Fa Xian
  3. I-Tsing
  4. Yijing
Q29.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Identify the Sulbasutras from the following options:

  1. Work on Constellation
  2. Work on Mathematics
  3. Work on Medicine
  4. Work on Grammar
Q30.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Identify the subject of the Sulbasutras from the following options:

  1. Work on Constellation
  2. Work on Mathematics
  3. Work on Medicine
  4. Work on Grammar
Q31.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following is believed to have spoken these words? 'unto yourselves as all of you must work out your own'

  1. Mahavira
  2. Buddha
  3. Sigala
  4. Ananda
Q32.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following statements are true regarding Buddha? (i) Buddha was the son of a chief of Sakya clan. (ii) He had a sheltered upbringing within the Sangha. (iii) He was informed of the harsh realities of life. (iv) He was deeply anguished when he saw an old man and a sick man.

  1. (i) and (ii)
  2. (ii) and (iii)
  3. (i) and (iv)
  4. (ii) and (iv)
Q33.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Identify the character of the Mahabharata for the following information: Was a nishad, Considered Dronacharya as his Guru, Gave his right thumb to Dronacharya as Guru dakshina

  1. Ghatotkatch
  2. Eklavya
  3. Nakul
  4. Sahdeva

Very short answer (1)

Q34.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Name one Buddhist site in the state of Andhra Pradesh. (For Visually Impaired candidates only)

Short answer (10)

Q35.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

"The mid-first millennium BCE is considered as a significant turning point in the course of World History." Justify the statement.

Q36.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

"Art historians had to acquire familiarity with Hagiographies of Buddha in order to understand Buddhist sculpture." Explain the statement in context of Sanchi Stupa.

Q37.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

How does the Sanchi Stupa reflect the religious and cultural beliefs of ancient India? Explain with examples.

Q38.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

How did the patronage of rulers of ancient India influence the growth of Buddhism?

Q39.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

'Shahjahan Begum worked extensively for the protection of Sanchi Stupa.' Explain the statement.

Q40.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

"According to Jaina teachings, the birth and rebirth is shaped through Karma." Explain the statement.

Q41.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain how Jainism spread to many parts of India.

Q42.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

"Buddha regarded the social world as the creation of humans rather than of divine origin." Explain the statement.

Q43.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Why is the mid-first millennium BCE often considered as the turning point in world history? Explain.

Q44.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Why was Buddha considered as one of the most influential teachers of his time ? Explain.

Long answer (10)

Q45.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

Examine how the sculptural elements are integrated within the architectural framework of the Sanchi Stupa.

Q46.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

The Buddha was considered as one of the most influential teachers of his times. In the light of this statement, explain his teachings.

Q47.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

Explain the growth of Buddhism during the ancient period. Explain the role of Begums of Bhopal in conserving the Buddhist ancient site of Sanchi.

Q48.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Examine the main features of the Stupa at Sanchi and the role of the rulers of Bhopal in preserving it.

Q49.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Examine how the Buddhist Stupa at Amravati fell to ruins and the Sanchi Stupa survived.

Q50.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

(a) Why is the mid-first millennium BCE often regarded as a turning point in world history? Explain with examples.

Q51.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

Explain the growth of Puranic Hinduism.

Q52.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

(b) How have Art historians tried to understand Buddhism through the sculptures of Sanchi Stupa? Explain with examples.

Q53.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

During Buddha's lifetime and after his death, Buddhism developed rapidly. Explain the statement with examples.

Q54.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

(a) The architectural and sculptural style of Sanchi stupa is remarkable. Explain the statement with examples.

Case-based (9)

Case study · CBSE 2025

Verses from the Upanishads Here are two verses from the Chhandogya Upanishad, a text composed in Sanskrit c. sixth century BCE: The Nature of the Self This self of mine within the heart, is smaller than paddy or barley or mustard or millet or the kernel of a seed of millet. This self of mine within the heart is greater than the earth, greater than the intermediate space, greater than heaven, greater than these worlds. The True Sacrifice This one (the wind) that blows, this is surely a sacrifice … While moving, it sanctifies all this; therefore it is indeed a sacrifice.

Q55.CBSE 2025 · 4 marks

31.1 Mention the main theme of the verse.

Q56.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Mention the main theme of the verse.

Q57.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

32.1 Mention the main theme of the verse.

Case study · CBSE 2024

Fatalists and materialists? Here is an excerpt from the Sutta Pitaka, describing a conversation between King Ajatasattu, the ruler of Magadha, and the Buddha: On one occasion King Ajatasattu visited the Buddha and described what another teacher, named Makkhali Gosala, had told him: "Though the wise should hope, by this virtue … by this penance I will gain karma … and the fool should by the same means hope to gradually rid himself of his karma, neither of them can do it. Pleasure and pain, measured out as it were, cannot be altered in the course of samsara (transmigration). It can neither be lessened or increased … just as a ball of string will when thrown unwind to its full length, so fool and wise alike will take their course and make an end of sorrow." And this is what a philosopher named Ajita Kesakambalin taught: "There is no such thing, O king, as alms or sacrifice, or offerings … there is no such thing as this world or the next… A human being is made up of the four elements. When he dies the earthy in him returns to the earth, the fluid to water, the heat to fire, the windy to air, and his senses pass into space … The talk of gifts is a doctrine of fools, an empty lie … fools and wise alike are cut off and perish. They do not survive after death." The first teacher belonged to the tradition of the Ajivikas. They have often been described as fatalists: those who believe that everything is predetermined. The second teacher belonged to the tradition of the Lokayatas, usually described as materialists. Texts from these traditions have not survived, so we know about them only from the works of other traditions.

Q58.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

(33.1) Analyse the views of Makkhali Gosala on karma.

Q59.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

Analyse the views of Makkhali Gosala on karma.

Case study · CBSE 2024

Buddhism in practice This is an excerpt from the Sutta Pitaka, and contains the advice given by the Buddha to a wealthy householder named Sigala: In five ways should a master look after his servants and employees … by assigning them work according to their strength, by supplying them with food and wages, by tending them in sickness; by sharing delicacies with them and by granting leave at times… In five ways should the clansmen look after the needs of samanas (those who have renounced the world) and Brahmanas : by affection in act and speech and mind, by keeping open house to them and supplying their worldly needs. There are similar instructions to Sigala about how to behave with his parents, teacher and wife.

Q60.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

(31.1) How did Buddha highlight the significance of compassion in social hierarchy?

Q61.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

How did Buddha highlight the significance of compassion in social hierarchy?

Q62.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

(33.1) How did Buddha highlight the significance of compassion in social hierarchy?

Q63.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Explain the significance of Sutta Pitaka in Buddhism.

5Through the Eyes of Travellers: Perceptions of Society

Multiple choice and assertion-reason (25)

Q1.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following is a similarity between the works of Ibn Battuta and Al-Biruni ?

  1. Both aimed to spread their culture
  2. Both travelled to seek knowledge
  3. Both focused on political history
  4. Both criticized local customs
Q2.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Al-Biruni's major work 'Kitab-ul-Hind' is significant for its comprehensive study of India. Which of the following was the primary aim of this work?

  1. Promote Islamic teaching
  2. Map geographical locations
  3. Critique culture and traditions
  4. Document Indian culture
Q3.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Arrange the following in chronological order and choose the correct option: I. Visit of François Bernier in India, II. Visit of Abd al-Razzaq in India, III. Visit of Ibn Battuta in India, IV. Visit of Al-Biruni in India.

  1. I, II, IV, III
  2. II, I, III, IV
  3. IV, III, II, I
  4. III, IV, II, I
Q4.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Why did Ibn Battuta find Indian agriculture very productive? Identify the most appropriate reason from the following:

  1. Lack of pests and insects
  2. Skilled and experienced farmers
  3. Year round rainfall and soil quality
  4. Fertile soil and irrigation system
Q5.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

According to Montesquieu, how did the rulers in Asia manage their subjects? Choose the most appropriate option from the following.

  1. By promoting private property
  2. By ensuring economic equality
  3. By exercising absolute authority
  4. By decentralizing powers to leaders
Q6.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Bernier compared the Mughal Empire to the French monarchy, and particularly criticized the absence of private property rights in India. How does this comparison reflect Bernier's own socio-political context?

  1. Advocacy for feudalism in Indian governance
  2. Support for absolutism and critiquing India
  3. Support of private property, leading to underestimating India
  4. Belief in the superiority of European legal structures
Q7.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

During Ibn Battuta's travels in India, which prominent city did he visit and describe as 'a vast city, with a great population, the largest in India'?

  1. Daulatabad
  2. Agra
  3. Calcutta
  4. Delhi
Q8.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Among the following, whose description of 'degenerated East' inspired Western theorists to develop the idea of 'oriental despotism'?

  1. Peter Mundy
  2. François Bernier
  3. Duarte Barbosa
  4. Marco Polo
Q9.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

In which of the following languages has Al-Biruni translated Sanskrit, Pali and Prakrit texts in India?

  1. Persian
  2. Arabic
  3. Urdu
  4. Hindavi
Q10.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Identify the medieval globe-trotter with the help of the following information: • Before he set-off for India he made pilgrimage trips to Mecca before 1332-33 C.E. • The Delhi Sultan Muhammad Bin Tughlaq made him Qazi or the judge of Delhi.

  1. Abd-al-Razzak
  2. Al-Biruni
  3. Ibn Batuta
  4. Seydi Ali Reis
Q11.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

To whom among the following did François Bernier dedicate his writing 'Comparing East and West'?

  1. Louis XIV
  2. Charles IX
  3. Louis IX
  4. Phillip II
Q12.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Two statements as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and choose the correct option: Assertion (A): Ibn Battuta found Indian agriculture very productive. Reason (R): The soils were fertile which allowed the farmers to produce two crops a year.

  1. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are correct and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  2. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are correct, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  3. Assertion (A) is correct, but Reason (R) is incorrect.
  4. Assertion (A) is incorrect, but Reason (R) is correct.
Q13.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option: Column I (Traveller) - Column II (Books authored): 1. Abu'l Fazl (i) Travels in the Mughal Empire 2. Ibn Battuta (ii) Kitab-ul-Hind 3. Al-Biruni (iii) Rihla 4. François Bernier (iv) Ain-i-Akbari

  1. 1-(iv), 2-(iii), 3-(ii), 4-(i)
  2. 1-(iii), 2-(ii), 3-(i), 4-(iv)
  3. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iv), 4-(iii)
  4. 1-(i), 2-(iii), 3-(ii), 4-(iv)
Q14.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option: Column I (Traveller): 1. Abu'l Fazl 2. Ibn Battuta 3. Al-Biruni 4. François Bernier | Column II (Books authored): (i) Travels in the Mughal Empire (ii) Kitab-ul-Hind (iii) Rihla (iv) Ain-i-Akbari

  1. 1-(iv), 2-(iii), 3-(ii), 4-(i)
  2. 1-(iii), 2-(ii), 3-(i), 4-(iv)
  3. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iv), 4-(iii)
  4. 1-(i), 2-(iii), 3-(ii), 4-(iv)
Q15.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following countries did Marco Polo belong to?

  1. Italy
  2. Portugal
  3. Spain
  4. France
Q16.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following statement is not true regarding Ibn Battuta ?

  1. He was a Moroccan traveller to India.
  2. Badshahnama was written by him.
  3. He had expertise in the Islamic religious law Sharia.
  4. He had made a pilgrimage to Mecca.
Q17.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Two statements as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and answer the questions that follow: Assertion (A): Francois Bernier has called the Mughal king as the king of barbarians. Reason (R): Crown ownership of land was its reason.

  1. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are correct and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  2. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are correct, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  3. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are not correct.
  4. Assertion (A) is correct, but Reason (R) is incorrect.
Q18.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following pairs is correctly matched ?

  1. Ibn Battuta - Portuguese
  2. Francois Bernier - Frenchman
  3. Duarte Barbosa - Moroccan
  4. Manucci - Spanish
Q19.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Read the following statements: (i) Bernier's account influenced Western theorists from the fifteenth century onwards. (ii) Montesquieu used this account to develop the idea of oriental despotism. (iii) Karl Marx. (iv) According to Bernier, the Mughal Imperial Court presided over village communities. Choose the correct options:

  1. (i), (ii) and (iii)
  2. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
  3. (i), (iii) and (iv)
  4. (i), (ii) and (iv)
Q20.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Read the following statements: (i) Bernier's description influenced western thinkers from the fifteenth century onwards. (ii) Bernier's account was used by Montesquieu to develop the idea of oriental despotism. (iii) Bernier's ideas were developed by Karl Marx. (iv) According to Bernier, the Mughal Imperial Court presided over village communities. Choose the correct options:

  1. (i), (ii) and (iii)
  2. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
  3. (i), (iii) and (iv)
  4. (i), (ii) and (iv)
Q21.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Read the following statements: (i) Bernier's account was of great significance to the understanding of the Mughal state from the fifteenth century onwards. (ii) Montesquieu used this account to develop the idea of oriental despotism. (iii) Karl Marx used Bernier's account to develop his ideas. (iv) According to Bernier, the Mughal Imperial Court presided over village communities. Choose the correct options:

  1. (i), (ii) and (iii)
  2. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
  3. (i), (iii) and (iv)
  4. (i), (ii) and (iv)
Q22.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following travellers belonged to Portugal?

  1. Ibn Battuta
  2. Marco Polo
  3. Duarte Barbosa
  4. Al-Biruni
Q23.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following statements regarding Francois Bernier are correct? (i) He was a doctor, philosopher and historian. (ii) He came to the Mughal Empire in search of opportunities. (iii) He became physician to Prince Dara Shikoh. (iv) Bernier's writings were published in Spain

  1. (i), (ii) and (iii)
  2. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
  3. (i), (iii) and (iv)
  4. (i), (ii) and (iv)
Q24.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following was appointed Qazi/Judge of Delhi by Sultan Mohammed Bin Tughlaq ?

  1. Asaf Khan
  2. Ibn Battuta
  3. Mahmud Wali Balkhi
  4. Danishmand Khan
Q25.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following travellers never returned to Europe and settled in India?

  1. Bernier
  2. Manucci
  3. Duarte Barbosa
  4. Roberto Nobili

Short answer (10)

Q26.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Analyse the observations, critical insights and reflections provided by Bernier while he travelled in Mughal India.

Q27.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain how Ibn Battuta described the Indian cities.

Q28.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain the main features of Al-Biruni's travels in India.

Q29.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain what Ibn Battuta had described about the system of communication during the 14th century.

Q30.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Describe any three experiences of Ibn Battuta in India.

Q31.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain the distinctive features of Al-Kitab-Ul-Hind.

Q32.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain any three features of the Rihla authored by Ibn Battuta.

Q33.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain any three things observed by Ibn Battuta in the Indian subcontinent.

Q34.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Describe any three experiences of Al-Biruni in India.

Q35.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain the views of Ibn Battuta on Indian cities.

Long answer (5)

Q36.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

(a) Examine how did Al-Biruni compared the caste system in India with other societies and also write the chief features of his book Kitab-Ul-Hind.

Q37.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

'Francois Bernier contrasted what he saw in India with the situation in Europe.' Explain the statement with examples.

Q38.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

(b) Examine Bernier's opinion on the question of land ownership in Mughal India and how were the western economists influenced by Bernier's description.

Q39.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Examine Ibn-Battuta's views on Delhi & Daulatabad during his travel.

Q40.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Examine Bernier's description of Crown ownership of land and lack of private property during Mughal India.

Case-based (13)

Case study · CBSE 2025

My departure from Tangier, my birthplace, took place on Thursday... I set out alone, having neither fellow-traveller... nor caravan whose party I might join, but swayed by an overmastering impulse within me and a desire long-cherished in my bosom to visit these illustrious sanctuaries. So I braced my resolution to quit all my dear ones, female and male, and forsook my home as birds forsake their nests ... My age at that time was twenty-two years. Ibn Battuta returned home in 1354, about 30 years after he had set out.

Q41.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Analyse the symbolism of the bird leaving its nest in the context of Ibn Battuta.

Case study · CBSE 2025

A language with an enormous range Al-Biruni described Sanskrit as follows: If you want to conquer this difficulty (i.e. to learn Sanskrit), you will not find it easy, because the language is of an enormous range, both in words and inflections, something like the Arabic, calling one and the same thing by various names, both original and derivative, and using one and the same word for a variety of subjects, which, in order to be properly understood, must be distinguished from each other by various qualifying epithets.

Q42.CBSE 2025 · 4 marks

How did Al-Biruni's description of Sanskrit reflect his engagement with Indian culture?

Q43.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

What motivated Al-Biruni to study Sanskrit?

Case study · CBSE 2025

The bird leaves its nest This is an excerpt from the Rihla: My departure from Tangier, my birthplace, took place on Thursday... I set out alone, having neither fellow-traveller... nor caravan whose party I might join, but swayed by an overmastering impulse within me and a desire long-cherished in my bosom to visit these illustrious sanctuaries. So I braced my resolution to quit all my dear ones, female and male, and forsook my home as birds forsake their nests ... My age at that time was twenty-two years. Ibn Battuta returned home in 1354, about 30 years after he had set out.

Q44.CBSE 2025 · 4 marks

Analyse the symbolism of the bird leaving its nest in the context of Ibn Battuta.

Case study · CBSE 2025

A warning for Europe Bernier warned that if European kings followed the Mughal model: Their kingdoms would be very far from being well-cultivated and peopled, so well built, so rich, so polite and flourishing as we see them. Our kings are otherwise rich and powerful; and we must avow that they are much better and more royally served. They would soon be kings of deserts and solitudes, of beggars and barbarians, such as those are whom I have been representing. (the Mughals) .... We should find the great Cities and the great Buroughs (boroughs) rendered uninhabitable because of ill air, and to fall to ruine (ruin) with without any bodies (anybody) taking care of repairing them; the hillock abandoned, and the fields overspread with bushes, or fill'd with pestilential marishes (marshes), as hath been already intimated.

Q45.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

32.1 Mention any one prominent contribution of Bernier.

Q46.CBSE 2025 · 4 marks

31.1 Mention any one prominent contribution of Bernier.

Q47.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

33.1 Mention any one prominent contribution of Bernier.

Case study · CBSE 2025

Al-Biruni described Sanskrit as follows: If you want to conquer this difficulty (i.e. to learn Sanskrit), you will not find it easy, because the language is of an enormous range, both in words and inflections, something like the Arabic, calling one and the same thing by various names, both original and derivative, and using one and the same word for a variety of subjects, which, in order to be properly understood, must be distinguished from each other by various qualifying epithets.

Q48.CBSE 2025 · 4 marks

How did Al-Biruni's description of Sanskrit reflect his engagement with Indian culture?

Case study · CBSE 2024

A strange nation? The travelogue of Abdur Razzaq written in the 1440s is an interesting mixture of emotions and perceptions. On the one hand, he did not appreciate what he saw in the port of Calicut (present-day Kozhikode) in Kerala, which was populated by "a people the likes of whom I had never imagined", describing them as "a strange nation". Later in his visit to India, he arrived in Mangalore, and crossed the Western Ghats. Here he saw a temple that filled him with admiration: Within three leagues (about nine miles) of Mangalore, I saw an idol-house the likes of which is not to be found in all the world. It was a square, approximately ten yards a side, five yards in height, all covered with cast bronze, with four porticos. In the entrance portico was a statue in the likeness of a human being, full stature, made of gold. It had two red rubies for eyes, so cunningly made that you would say it could see. What craft and artisanship!

Q49.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

(32.1) Why did Abdur Razzaq call India a 'strange nation'?

Q50.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

Why did Abdur Razzaq call India a 'strange nation'?

Q51.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

(31.1) Why did Abdur Razzaq call India a 'strange nation'?

Case study · CBSE 2024

The creation and circulation of ideas about India. The writings of European travellers helped produce an image of India for Europeans through the printing and circulation of their books. Later, after 1750, when Indians like Shaikh Itisamuddin and Mirza Abu Talib visited Europe and confronted this image that Europeans had of their society, they tried to influence it by producing their own version of matters and described India as a great nation.

Q52.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

In what way did Shaikh Itisamuddin and Mirza Abu Talib challenge the version of Europeans towards India?

Q53.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

(31.1) In what way did Shaikh Itisamuddin and Mirza Abu Talib challenge the version of Europeans towards India?

6Bhakti-Sufi Traditions: Changes in Religious Beliefs and Devotional Texts Notes & MCQs →

Multiple choice and assertion-reason (25)

Q1.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Imagine reading the 'Nalayira Divyaprabandham' a significant text in Tamil. Why is this collection often referred to as the Tamil Veda?

  1. It contains laws and regulations of Tamil society.
  2. It holds religious significance equivalent to Vedas.
  3. It is documented as a historical epic based on events.
  4. It serves as a manual for temple construction.
Q2.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Throughout his extensive travels, Ibn Batuta was able to explore unfamiliar cultures and societies. Which of the following competencies did he most likely develop?

  1. Leadership and Judicial Management
  2. Cultural Competencies and Skills
  3. Knowledge of Administration and Army
  4. Scientific and Technical expertise
Q3.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

In a modern city, a group of friends discusses the relevance of Kabir's teachings into today's society. Some believe these are outdated, while others see their significance in promoting equality and love. Which of the following scenario best reflects Kabir's relevance today?

  1. A debate on Kabir's historical context
  2. A discussion dismissing spirituality irrelevant
  3. Focus on societal norms and traditions only
  4. Seeking simple connection with the divine
Q4.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

In a modern city, a group of friends discusses the relevance of Kabir's teachings in today's society. Some believe these are outdated, while others see their significance in promoting equality and love. Which of the following scenario best reflects Kabir's relevance today?

  1. A debate on Kabir's historical context
  2. A discussion dismissing spirituality irrelevant
  3. Focus on societal norms and traditions only
  4. Seeking simple connection with the divine
Q5.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following statements is correct regarding Virashaiav or Lingayat tradition?

  1. They emphasize Brahman as the supreme entity.
  2. They do not bury their dead persons.
  3. They believe that on death they will be united with Shiva.
  4. They are the followers of Vishnu.
Q6.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Who among the following included the composition of Guru Tegh Bahadur ji in the Guru Granth Sahib?

  1. Guru Hargobind Sahibji
  2. Guru Gobind Singhji
  3. Guru Arjan Devji
  4. Guru Harkrishan Sahibji
Q7.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following statements is correct regarding Virashaiva or Lingayat tradition?

  1. They emphasize Brahman as the supreme entity.
  2. They do not bury their dead persons.
  3. They believe that on death they will be united with Shiva.
  4. They are the followers of Vishnu.
Q8.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following pairs is not correctly matched?

  1. Shaikh Muinuddin Sijzi – Ajmer
  2. Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki – Delhi
  3. Shaikh Fariduddin Ganj-i Shakar – Ajodhan (Pakistan)
  4. Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya – Agra
Q9.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

If you were to create a documentary on Amir Khusrau, which aspect would best highlight his cultural significance?

  1. His proficiency in Arabic language
  2. His poetry and musical sama
  3. His contribution to the development of Urdu
  4. His association with the Delhi Sultanate
Q10.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Kabir emphasized 'Nirguna Bhakti'. What does this concept imply about Kabir's spiritual beliefs?

  1. He believed in a personal God with attributes.
  2. He emphasized the importance of rituals and ceremonies.
  3. He advocated for a hierarchical relation between God and humans.
  4. He believed in the oneness of God.
Q11.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Identify the ruler of India from the sixteenth century with the following information and choose the correct option: He went on a pilgrimage to Ajmer fourteen times. He sought blessings for new conquests and the birth of sons from Ajmer Sharif.

  1. Sultan Ghias-ud-din Khalji
  2. Shah-Jehan
  3. Akbar
  4. Muhammad Bin Tughlaq
Q12.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who among the following was the mentor of Amir Khusrau?

  1. Shaikh Nasiruddin Chiragh-i-Delhi
  2. Shaikh Muinuddin Chishti
  3. Shaikh Salim Chishti
  4. Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya
Q13.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Identify the disciple of Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya with the help of the following information: He was a great poet and musician of medieval period. He gave a unique form to Chishti sama. He introduced qawwali.

  1. Baba Farid
  2. Data Ganj Bakhsh
  3. Amir Khusrau
  4. Ziyauddin Barani
Q14.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following pairs is correctly matched? Saints - Their Region

  1. Kabirdas — Karnataka
  2. Mirabai — Rajasthan
  3. Basavanna — Assam
  4. Shankaradeva — Uttar Pradesh
Q15.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following pairs is correctly matched? Saints | Their Region (A) Kabirdas — Karnataka (B) Mirabai — Rajasthan (C) Basavanna — Assam (D) Shankaradeva — Uttar Pradesh

  1. Kabirdas — Karnataka
  2. Mirabai — Rajasthan
  3. Basavanna — Assam
  4. Shankaradeva — Uttar Pradesh
Q16.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Identify the name of a woman devotee of early Bhakti tradition with the help of information given below: She was a devotee of Lord Shiva. She adopted a path of extreme asceticism to attain her goal.

  1. Karraikal Ammaiyar
  2. Mirabai
  3. Andal
  4. Muktabai
Q17.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following pairs is correctly matched?

  1. Shaikh Moinuddin Chishti – Ajodhan (Pakistan)
  2. Khwaja Qutubuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki – Agra
  3. Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya – Delhi
  4. Shaikh Fariduddin Ganj-i-Shakar – Ajmer
Q18.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who among the following Sikh Gurus compiled 'Adi Granth Sahib'?

  1. Guru Nanak Dev ji
  2. Guru Arjun Dev ji
  3. Guru Hargobind Sahib ji
  4. Guru Gobind Singh ji
Q19.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Choose the correct option regarding Virashaiva tradition from the following:

  1. This tradition emerged in Karnataka.
  2. They are the followers of Vishnu.
  3. They believed in the theory of rebirth.
  4. They practice funerary rites.
Q20.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Read the following information carefully and choose the correct location for this dargah from the given options: It is a dargah of Shaikh Salim Chisti. Akbar visited this dargah many a times.

  1. Ajmer
  2. Delhi
  3. Agra
  4. Fatehpur Sikri
Q21.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Two statements as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and answer the questions that follow: Assertion (A): Mirabai was the woman poet of Nirguna Bhakti tradition. Reason (R): She has been recognized as a source of inspiration for centuries.

  1. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are correct and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  2. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are correct, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  3. Assertion (A) is correct, but Reason (R) is incorrect.
  4. Assertion (A) is incorrect, but Reason (R) is correct.
Q22.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Arrange the following in chronological order and select the correct option from the given options. (i) Guru Gobind Singh (ii) Guru Arjan Dev (iii) Guru Har Kishan Dev (iv) Guru Nanak Dev

  1. (i), (iv), (iii), (ii)
  2. (ii), (iii), (iv), (i)
  3. (iii), (i), (ii), (iv)
  4. (iv), (ii), (iii), (i)
Q23.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following statements are correct about the Bhakti saint, Karaikkal Ammaiyar? (i) She was a woman devotee from Karnataka. (ii) She was a woman Nayanar. (iii) She was a devotee of Shiva. (iv) She composed Nalayira Divyaprabandham. Choose the correct option:

  1. (ii) and (iv)
  2. (iii) and (iv)
  3. (i) and (iii)
  4. (ii) and (iii)
Q24.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Match List I with List II: List I (Saints): i. Andal ii. Basavanna iii. Karaikkal Ammaiyar iv. Baba Farid; List II (Traditions): 1. Sufi 2. Lingayat 3. Alvar 4. Nayanar

  1. i→1, ii→3, iii→2, iv→4
  2. i→2, ii→4, iii→1, iv→3
  3. i→3, ii→2, iii→4, iv→1
  4. i→4, ii→1, iii→3, iv→2
Q25.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Match List I with List II: List I (Saints): i. Andal ii. Basavanna iii. Karaikkal Ammaiyar iv. Baba Farid. List II (Traditions): 1. Sufi 2. Lingayat 3. Alvar 4. Nayanar. Options:

  1. i→1, ii→3, iii→2, iv→4
  2. i→2, ii→4, iii→1, iv→3
  3. i→3, ii→2, iii→4, iv→1
  4. i→4, ii→1, iii→3, iv→2

Short answer (11)

Q26.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Describe the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev.

Q27.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Describe the teachings and philosophy of Kabir Das.

Q28.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Describe the teachings and philosophy of Virashaiva tradition.

Q29.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Describe the teachings and philosophy of Lingayat tradition.

Q30.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

"Baba Guru Nanak Dev ji advocated a form of 'Nirguna Bhakti'". Substantiate the statement.

Q31.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

The most striking feature of early Bhakti traditions was the presence of women. Give examples to prove the statement.

Q32.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain the major features of Virashaiva tradition.

Q33.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain the role of women devotees in the traditions of Alvars and Nayanars.

Q34.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

How did the Chishtis adopt the local languages of India during the Medieval period ? Explain.

Q35.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain the teachings of Kabir Das.

Q36.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain the teachings of Lingayat tradition.

Long answer (16)

Q37.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

Explain the main beliefs and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev.

Q38.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

Explain the beliefs and teachings of Alvars and Nayanrs during the Medieval India.

Q39.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

Describe the views of Meera Bai on devotionalism.

Q40.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

How has the legacy of Guru Nanak Dev's teachings influenced the principles of Sikhism? Explain with examples.

Q41.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

How did the practices and teachings of Sufi saints in medieval India promote a sense of unity? Explain with examples.

Q42.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

How did the Alvars and Nayanars contribute to the development of the Tamil Bhakti Movement ? Explain with examples.

Q43.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

(a) Describe the contribution of Kabir to the Bhakti Movement and his impact on religious and social harmony.

Q44.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Explain the main characteristics of the Lingayat tradition during Medieval India.

Q45.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

(a) How did Mirabai's life and works influence the culture and society? Explain.

Q46.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

(a) Describe the features of the Bhakti Movement led by the Alvars and Nayanars in medieval India.

Q47.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Explain the ideas of Alvars and Nayanars. Elucidate how they established their relations with the states.

Q48.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Explain the life and teachings of Kabir.

Q49.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

(a) Describe the philosophy and teachings of Kabir.

Q50.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

Describe the philosophy of Alvars and Nayanars.

Q51.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

(a) Describe the philosophy and practices of Sufis during medieval period in India.

Q52.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

Explain the philosophy and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev.

Case-based (6)

Case study · CBSE 2025

Amir Khusrau and the Qaul Amir Khusrau (1253-1325), the great poet, musician and disciple of Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya, gave a unique form to the Chishti 'sama' by introducing the qaul (Arabic word meaning "saying"), a hymn sung at the opening or closing of qawwali. This was followed by sufi poetry in Persian, Hindavi or Urdu, and sometimes using words from all of these languages. Qawwals (those who sing these songs) at the shrine of Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya always start their recital with the qaul. Today qawwali is performed in shrines all over the subcontinent.

Q53.CBSE 2025 · 4 marks

32.1 What unique form did Amir Khusrau introduce to the Chishti 'sama'?

Case study · CBSE 2025

Amir Khusrau (1253-1325), the great poet, musician and disciple of Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya, gave a unique form to the Chishti 'sama' by introducing the qaul (Arabic word meaning "saying"), a hymn sung at the opening or closing of qawwali. This was followed by sufi poetry in Persian, Hindavi or Urdu, and sometimes using words from all of these languages. Qawwals (those who sing these songs) at the shrine of Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya always start their recital with the qaul. Today qawwali is performed in shrines all over the subcontinent.

Q54.CBSE 2025 · 4 marks

What unique form did Amir Khusrau introduce to the Chishti 'sama'?

Q55.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

33.1 What unique form did Amir Khusrau introduce to the Chishti 'sama'?

Case study · CBSE 2025

Declining a royal gift. This excerpt from a sufi text describes the proceedings at Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya's hospice in 1313: I (the author, Amir Hasan Sijzi) had the good fortune of kissing his (Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya's) feet … At this time a local ruler had sent him the deed of ownership to two gardens and much land, along with the provisions and tools for their maintenance. The ruler had also made it clear that he was relinquishing all his rights to both the gardens and land. The master … had not accepted that gift. Instead, he had lamented: "What have I to do with gardens and fields and lands? … None of … our spiritual masters had engaged in such activity." Then he told an appropriate story: "… Sultan Ghiyasuddin, who at that time was still known as Ulugh Khan, came to visit Shaikh Fariduddin (and) offered some money and ownership deeds for four villages to the Shaikh, the money being for the benefit of the dervishes (sufis), and the land for his use. Smiling, Shaikh al Islam (Fariduddin) said: 'Give me the money. I will dispense it to the dervishes. But as for those land deeds, keep them. There are many who long for them. Give them away to such persons."

Q56.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

What did the ruler offer Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya?

Case study · CBSE 2025

This excerpt from a sufi text describes the proceedings at Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya's hospice in 1313: I (the author, Amir Hasan Sijzi) had the good fortune of kissing his (Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya's) feet … At this time a local ruler had sent him the deed of ownership to two gardens and much land, along with the provisions and tools for their maintenance. The ruler had also made it clear that he was relinquishing all his rights to both the gardens and land. The master … had not accepted that gift. Instead, he had lamented: "What have I to do with gardens and fields and lands ? … None of … our spiritual masters had engaged in such activity." Then he told an appropriate story: "… Sultan Ghiyasuddin, who at that time was still known as Ulugh Khan, came to visit Shaikh Fariduddin (and) offered some money and ownership deeds for four villages to the Shaikh, the money being for the benefit of the dervishes (sufis), and the land for his use. Smiling, Shaikh al Islam (Fariduddin) said: 'Give me the money. I will dispense it to the dervishes. But as for those land deeds, keep them. There are many who long for them. Give them away to such persons."

Q57.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

What did the ruler offer Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya?

Case study · CBSE 2024

The One Lord. Here is a composition attributed to Kabir: Tell me, brother, how can there be No one lord of the world but two? Who led you so astray? God is called by many names: Names like Allah, Ram, Karim, Keshav, Hari, and Hazrat. Gold may be shaped into rings and bangles. Isn't it gold all the same? Distinctions are only words we invent...

Q58.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

How did Kabir describe the ultimate reality?

7An Imperial Capital: Vijayanagara Notes & MCQs →

Multiple choice and assertion-reason (30)

Q1.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following statements regarding Colonel Colin Mackenzie are correct? Choose the correct option: I. The ruins of Hampi were brought to light in 1800 by him. II. He was an official of East India Company. III. He prepared the first survey maps of the site. IV. He received information of Vijayanagara empire from the Duarte Barbosa.

  1. I, II and III
  2. II, III and IV
  3. I, III and IV
  4. I, II and IV
Q2.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Match Column-I with Column-II and choose the correct option from the following: Column-I (Foreign Travellers) - Column-II (Countries) a. Afanasi Nikitin - I. Persia b. Domingo Paes - II. Russia c. Abdur-Razzak - III. Portugal d. Nicolo de Conti - IV. Italy

  1. a-III, b-IV, c-I, d-II
  2. a-II, b-III, c-I, d-IV
  3. a-III, b-IV, c-II, d-I
  4. a-II, b-III, c-IV, d-I
Q3.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Match Column-I (Temple) with Column-II (Location) and choose the correct option: a) Brihadeswaara temple - 1) Vijayanagara, b) Chennakeshava temple - 2) Tamil Nadu, c) Hazara Ram temple - 3) Belur, d) Chidambaram temple - 4) Tanjavur

  1. a-1, b-3, c-4, d-2
  2. a-2, b-4, c-3, d-1
  3. a-4, b-3, c-1, d-2
  4. a-1, b-3, c-2, d-4
Q4.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Match Column-I with Column-II and choose the correct option: Column-I (Temple): a) Brihadeswara temple, b) Chennakeshava temple, c) Hazara Ram temple, d) Chidambaram temple. Column-II (Location): 1) Vijayanagara, 2) Tamil Nadu, 3) Belur, 4) Tanjavur

  1. a-1, b-3, c-4, d-2
  2. a-2, b-4, c-3, d-1
  3. a-4, b-3, c-1, d-2
  4. a-1, b-3, c-2, d-4
Q5.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Arrange the following in chronological order and choose the correct option: I. Battle of Talikota, II. Establishment of Nagalpuram, III. Formation of Kamalpuram Tank, IV. Emergence of the Sultanate of Golconda

  1. I, II, III, IV
  2. II, III, IV, I
  3. III, II, IV, I
  4. IV, I, III, II
Q6.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following was the main source of initial information about Hampi's ruins for Colonel Colin Mackenzie?

  1. British documents
  2. Memories of priests
  3. Foreign travellers account
  4. Epigraphic inscriptions
Q7.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following is a famous literary work authored by Raja Krishnadeva Raya?

  1. Amuktamalyada
  2. Ponniyin Selvan
  3. Kadambari
  4. Malatimadhava
Q8.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Fill in the blank with the appropriate option from the following: While historians use the term Vijayanagara Empire, contemporaries described it as the ''Karnataka ___________''.

  1. Hampi
  2. Samrajyamu
  3. Nagara
  4. Empire
Q9.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following is the correct statement regarding Vijayanagara Empire?

  1. The Vijayanagara Empire was founded by Harihara in the 13th century.
  2. Vijayanagara was the name of both, city and empire.
  3. The empire stretched between rivers Kaveri and Tungabhadra.
  4. Vijayanagara fell to ruins in the 15th century.
Q10.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following is the most important contribution of Krishnadeva Raya?

  1. He expanded the Vijayanagara Empire.
  2. He subdued the Mughal rulers.
  3. He kept the military control flexible.
  4. He built the Thanjavur temple.
Q11.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Identify the person with the help of following information: - He was a famous engineer, surveyor and cartographer. - He was appointed the first Surveyor General of India in 1815.

  1. Alexander Greenlaw
  2. Colin Mackenzie
  3. John Marshall
  4. R.E.M. Wheeler
Q12.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option: Column I (Temple): 1. Hazara Rama Temple (i) Tamil Nadu 2. Chidambaram Temple (ii) Vijayanagara 3. Brihadishvara Temple (iii) Belur 4. Chennakeshava Temple (iv) Thanjavur

  1. 1-(ii), 2-(iv), 3-(i), 4-(iii)
  2. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iv), 4-(iii)
  3. 1-(ii), 2-(iii), 3-(iv), 4-(i)
  4. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iii), 4-(iv)
Q13.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following was the main factor that led to the decline of the Vijayanagara empire?

  1. Internal conflicts and alliance with the Sultanates against Vijayanagara.
  2. Defeat of Bijapur, Ahmadnagar and Golconda in Talikota.
  3. Heavy decline in trade and economy of the Vijayanagara empire.
  4. Invasion of Portuguese and French on Vijayanagara.
Q14.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option: Column I (Temple): 1. Hazara Rama Temple, 2. Chidambaram Temple, 3. Brihadishvara Temple, 4. Chennakeshava Temple. Column II (Location): (i) Tamil Nadu, (ii) Vijayanagara, (iii) Belur, (iv) Thanjavur.

  1. 1-(ii), 2-(iv), 3-(i), 4-(iii)
  2. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iv), 4-(iii)
  3. 1-(ii), 2-(iii), 3-(iv), 4-(i)
  4. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iii), 4-(iv)
Q15.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Fill in the blank. The most striking feature about the location of Vijayanagara was the natural basin formed by river ___________ which flows in a north-easterly direction.

  1. Narmada
  2. Godavari
  3. Kaveri
  4. Tungabhadra
Q16.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following empires was called 'Karnataka Samrajyamu'?

  1. Chera
  2. Pallava
  3. Chola
  4. Vijayanagara
Q17.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following pairs is correctly matched? Column I (Temple) - Column II (Location)

  1. Chidambaram Temple — Thanjavur
  2. Brihadishvara Temple — Vijayanagara
  3. Chennakeshava Temple — Belur
  4. Hazara Rama Temple — Tamil Nadu
Q18.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following pairs is correctly matched? Column I (Temple) | Column II (Location) (A) Chidambaram Temple — Thanjavu (B) Brihadishvara Temple — Vijayanagar (C) Chennakeshava Temple — Belur (D) Hazara Rama Temple — Tamil Nadu

  1. Chidambaram Temple — Thanjavur
  2. Brihadishvara Temple — Vijayanagara
  3. Chennakeshava Temple — Belur
  4. Hazara Rama Temple — Tamil Nadu
Q19.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following option is NOT correct regarding the contemporaries of Vijayanagara empire?

  1. Establishment of the Gajapati Kingdom of Orissa
  2. Establishment of the Sultanates of Malwa
  3. Emergence of Sultanates of Bijapur
  4. Rise of the Chalukyas in Karnataka
Q20.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Choose the correct statement from the following options with reference to Vijayanagara empire:

  1. This empire was founded by the rulers of Saluva dynasty.
  2. This empire became powerful after the death of Krishnadeva Raya.
  3. The battle of Talikota proved disastrous for Vijayanagara empire.
  4. Their land revenue system was taken from Mansabdari system.
Q21.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column-I with Column-II regarding Vijayanagara empire and choose the correct option:

Column-I (Travellers who visited Vijayanagara Empire) | Column-II (Country they belonged) I. Nicolo de Conti | a. Persia II. Abdur Razzak | b. Portugal III. Duarte Barbosa | c. Italy IV. Afanasi Nikitin | d. Russia

  1. a c d b
  2. c a b d
  3. d b c a
  4. b d a c
Q22.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match column-I with column-II and choose the correct option: Column-I Temple - Column-II Region I. Brihadeswara - A. Vijayanagar II. Channekeshwar - B. Tanjavur III. Hazara Ram - C. Tamil Nadu IV. Chidambaram - D. Belur

  1. I-C, II-B, III-D, IV-A
  2. I-A, II-C, III-B, IV-B
  3. I-B, II-D, III-A, IV-C
  4. I-D, II-A, III-C, IV-B
Q23.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match column-I with column-II and choose the correct option: Column-I Temple: I Brihadeswara II Channekeshwar III Hazara Ram IV Chidambaram. Column-II Region: A Vijayanagar B Tanjavur C Tamil Nadu D Belur

  1. C B D A
  2. A C B B
  3. B D A C
  4. D A C B
Q24.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match column-I with column-II and choose the correct option: Column-I: I Brihadeswara, II Channekeshwar, III Hazara Ram, IV Chidambaram; Column-II: A Vijayanagar, B Tanjavur, C Tamil Nadu, D Belur

  1. C B D A
  2. A C B B
  3. B D A C
  4. D A C B
Q25.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

In which of the following places is the Brihadishvara temple situated ?

  1. Bijapur
  2. Belur
  3. Vijayanagara
  4. Thanjavur
Q26.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Identify the dynasty of Vijayanagara with the help of the following information: Harihara and Bukka belonged to this dynasty. They built Hiriya canal. It was the first dynasty of Vijayangara empire.

  1. Sangama
  2. Saluva
  3. Tuluva
  4. Aravidu
Q27.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following options is correct about the water resources of the Vijayanagara Empire? (a) River Kaveri flows in Vijayanagara towards north-easterly direction. (b) Embankments were built by Gajapati rulers in Vijayanagara.

  1. Option (a) is correct
  2. Option (b) is correct
  3. Both are correct
  4. Neither is correct
Q28.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following options is correct about the water resources of the Vijayanagara Empire?

  1. River Kaveri flows in Vijayanagara towards north-easterly direction.
  2. Embankments were built by Gajapati rulers in Vijayanagara.
  3. Kamalapuram Tank was a water reservoir.
  4. Hiriya Canal was built by the kings of Saluva dynasty.
Q29.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Rearrange the following in chronological order and select the correct option: (i) The Saluva military commanders were replaced by the Tuluvas. (ii) Rulers of Orissa were subdued by Krishnadeva Raya. (iii) The Battle of Talikota routed out the Vijayanagara Empire. (iv) Harihara and Bukka founded the Vijayanagara Empire.

  1. (iv), (i), (iii), (ii)
  2. (iv), (i), (ii), (iii)
  3. (iv), (iii), (ii), (i)
  4. (iv), (ii), (i), (iii)
Q30.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Rearrange the following in chronological order and select the correct option from the following: (i) The Saluva military commanders were replaced by the Tuluvas. (ii) Rulers of Orissa were subdued by Krishnadeva Raya. (iii) The Battle of Talikota routed out the Vijayanagara Empire. (iv) Harihara and Bukka founded the Vijayanagara Empire. Choose the correct option:

  1. (iv), (i), (iii), (ii)
  2. (iv), (i), (ii), (iii)
  3. (iv), (iii), (ii), (i)
  4. (iv), (ii), (i), (iii)

Short answer (21)

Q31.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Analyse the causes that led to the ruin of Vijayanagara empire.

Q32.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Analyse the role of Amara-nayakas in the Vijayanagara empire.

Q33.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Analyse the role of Krishnadev Rai in the Vijayanagara.

Q34.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

(a) Analyse the causes of decline of Vijayanagara empire.

Q35.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Imagine studying the water management system of the Vijayanagara empire. How did the empire's water resources support its agriculture and urban development? Explain.

Q36.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Imagine yourself as a historian reconstructing the events that took place on the Mahanavami Dibba. How would the architecture of the platform help you to understand the royal ceremonies? Explain.

Q37.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

The Vitthala temple of Vijayanagara was known for its unique architecture. Explain the statement with examples.

Q38.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

The Virupaksha Temple of the Vijayanagara empire was known for its unique architecture. Explain the statement with examples.

Q39.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain the water resource management of Vijayanagara empire with examples.

Q40.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

How were the different and unique elements added in the fortification of Vijayanagara empire? Explain with examples.

Q41.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain the distinctive features of the Royal Centre of the Vijayanagara empire.

Q42.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Analyse the role of Krishnadeva Raya as the ruler of Vijayanagara empire.

Q43.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Analyse how the ruins of Hampi were brought to light in 1800 by Colin Mackenzie.

Q44.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Why was 'Amar-Nayakas system' called as Political innovation of Vijayanagara empire? Explain.

Q45.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Analyse the role of Krishnadeva Raya in the Vijayanagara empire.

Q46.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

(a) The Virupaksha Temple was important in the Vijayanagara Empire. Substantiate the statement.

Q47.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Virupaksha Temple in Vijayanagara was important. Substantiate the statement.

Q48.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

(a) Vitthala Temple was an important monument in Vijayanagara Empire. Substantiate the statement.

Q49.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

The choice of the site of Vijayanagara was inspired by the presence of the shrines of Virupaksha and Pampadeshvara. Justify the statement.

Q50.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Describe the relationship between the Sultans of Bijapur and Golconda with the Vijayanagara kings.

Q51.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Describe the role of Rama Raya to bring about the ruin of Vijayanagara.

Long answer (4)

Q52.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Examine the main reasons for the rise and decline of the Vijaynagar empire.

Q53.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Why was the Mahanavami dibba of Vijayanagara famous? Explain.

Q54.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

Explain the reasons of apogee and fall of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Q55.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

Explain the structural and ritual related features of Mahanavami Dibba.

Case-based (2)

Case study · CBSE 2024

How tanks were built. About a tank constructed by Krishnadeva Raya, Paes wrote: The king made a tank ... at the mouth of two hills so that all the water which comes from either one side or the other collects there; and, besides this, water comes to it from more than three leagues (approximately 15 kilometres) by pipes which run along the lower parts of the range outside. This water is brought from a lake which itself overflows into a little river. The tank has three large pillars handsomely carved with figures; these connect above with certain pipes by which they get water when they have to irrigate their gardens and rice-fields. In order to make this tank the said king broke down a hill ... In the tank I saw so many people at work that there must have been fifteen or twenty thousand men, looking like ants ...

Q56.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

Why did Krishnadeva Raya construct a tank?

Q57.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

How tanks were built? About a tank constructed by Krishnadeva Raya, Paes wrote: The king made a tank ... at the mouth of two hills so that all the water which comes from either one side or the other collects there; and, besides this, water comes to it from more than three leagues (approximately 15 kilometres) by pipes which run along the lower parts of the range outside. This water is brought from a lake which itself overflows into a little river. The tank has three large pillars handsomely carved with figures; these connect above with certain pipes by which they get water when they have to irrigate their gardens and rice-fields. In order to make this tank the said king broke down a hill ... In the tank I saw so many people at work that there must have been fifteen or twenty thousand men, looking like ants ... Question (31.1): Why did Krishnadeva Raya construct a tank?

8Peasants, Zamindars and the State: Agrarian Society and the Mughal Empire Notes & MCQs →

Multiple choice and assertion-reason (33)

Q1.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following is a major source to understand agrarian history of 16th and 17th century India?

  1. Revenue records of Agra & Delhi
  2. Relationship between peasants and zamindars
  3. Important chronicle – the Ain-e-Akbari
  4. Types of agricultural crops grown at that time
Q2.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following statements is most appropriate regarding the zamindars of 16th and 17th century India?

  1. The zamindars were the exploitative class for the peasants.
  2. The zamindars collected revenue on behalf of the state.
  3. They always maintained cordial relations with the villagers.
  4. The zamindars had small piece of lands for personal use.
Q3.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following statements is true regarding the land revenue system of the Mughals?

  1. The revenue collectors collected tax of land in cash only.
  2. The cultivated lands were taxed without any measurement.
  3. Revenue from the land was the economic mainstay of the empire.
  4. The tax collectors used to collect taxes with the help of Sahukars.
Q4.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Identify the correct statement from the following regarding the role of women in agrarian society of the Mughal State.

  1. Only artisanal work were done by women.
  2. Women worked in the fields with men.
  3. Remarriage were not allowed for divorced women.
  4. Women were totally independent.
Q5.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following dynasties did Queen Prabhavati belong to?

  1. Kanvas
  2. Shakas
  3. Vakataka
  4. Maurya
Q6.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following informations were included in the tables of the sarkars in the Ain-i-Akbari?

  1. I, III and IV
  2. I, II and III
  3. I, II and IV
  4. II, III and IV
Q7.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

If you were researching the economic policies and revenue collection methods of Akbar's reign, which of the following sections of the Ain-i-Akbari would provide the most relevant information?

  1. Manzil-Abadi
  2. Sipah-Abadi
  3. Mulk-Abadi
  4. Daftar-e-Nau
Q8.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following options represents the correct chronological order of Mughal rulers in India? I. Reign of Aurangzeb, II. Reign of Akbar, III. Reign of Shah Jahan, IV. Reign of Jahangir

  1. I, II, III, IV
  2. II, III, IV, I
  3. III, II, I, IV
  4. II, IV, III, I
Q9.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option. Column I (Community during Mughal Empire): a. Muzarian, b. Patwari, c. Majur, d. Shroff. Column II (Role): i. Accountant, ii. Peasant, iii. Labourer, iv. Banker.

  1. a-iv, b-iii, c-ii, d-i
  2. a-ii, b-iii, c-i, d-iv
  3. a-ii, b-i, c-iii, d-iv
  4. a-i, b-iii, c-ii, d-iv
Q10.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following statements is correct regarding Ain-i-Akbari?

  1. Akbar Nama was the third book of Ain-i-Akbari.
  2. Manzil-abadi deals with the civil administration of the Mughals.
  3. Sipah-abadi deals with the imperial household of the Mughals.
  4. Mulk-abadi deals with the fiscal side of the Mughal empire.
Q11.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Choose the correct pair regarding the profile of rural people during the Mughal period: List I (Name): (A) Mallahzadas – Village Headman (B) Muqaddam – Banker (C) Shroff – Boatman (D) Muzarian – Peasant

  1. A
  2. B
  3. C
  4. D
Q12.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Choose the correct pair regarding the profile of rural people during the Mughal period: List I (Name) - List II (Profile)

  1. Mallahzadas – Village Headman
  2. Muqaddam – Banker
  3. Shroff – Boatman
  4. Muzarian – Peasant
Q13.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following tribal kingdoms exerted considerable influence and played a significant role in the Mughal Empire during the 16th and 17th centuries? I. Lohanis in Punjab II. Ahoms in Assam III. Koch in Bengal IV. Kols in Singhbhum

  1. II, III and IV
  2. I, II and III
  3. I, II and IV
  4. I, III and IV
Q14.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following pairs is correctly matched regarding the classification of lands under Akbar?

  1. Polaj: Land which was cultivated annually.
  2. Parauti: Land uncultivated for five years.
  3. Chachar: Land left uncultivated for a year.
  4. Banjar: Land laid fallow for three years.
Q15.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following tribal kingdoms exerted considerable influence and played a significant role in the Mughal Empire during the 16th and 17th centuries?

  1. II, III and IV
  2. I, II and III
  3. I, II and IV
  4. I, III and IV
Q16.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following tribes was engaged in overland trade between India and Afghanistan and in the villages and towns in Punjab during the Mughal era?

  1. Mundas
  2. Koch
  3. Ahoms
  4. Lohanis
Q17.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Fill in the blank with the appropriate word from the given options: The land which was annually cultivated for each crop in succession was called __________ in the Mughal Empire.

  1. Polaj
  2. Parauti
  3. Banjar
  4. Chachar
Q18.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following was not a major factor that accounted for the constant expansion of agriculture in the Mughal state?

  1. Abundance of land
  2. Availability of labour
  3. Mobility of peasants
  4. Availability of tractors
Q19.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

With reference to the land revenue system of the Mughals, match Column-I with that of Column-II:

Column-I | Column-II I. Jama | a. The amount actually collected II. Khet Batai | b. After cutting the crops, putting it in heaps and divided equally III. Lang Batai | c. Field is divided when it is sown for levying revenue IV. Hasil | d. The amount of revenue assessed

  1. d c b a
  2. a b c d
  3. d c a b
  4. c b a d
Q20.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following description of Mughal rural society is correctly matched? Rural people - Profession

  1. Raiyat - Boatsman
  2. Mallah - Banker
  3. Shroff - Peasant
  4. Mansabdar - Military-Bureaucrat
Q21.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Identify the forest tribe during sixteenth and seventeenth century with the help of following information: • In Assam these Tribal Chiefs became kings. • They rendered military service in exchange of land. • They declared their monopoly on catching wild elephants.

  1. Lohani tribe
  2. Santhal tribe
  3. Ahom tribe
  4. Munda tribe
Q22.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following description of Mughal rural society is correctly matched?

  1. Raiyat - Boatsman
  2. Mallah - Banker
  3. Shroff - Peasant
  4. Mansabdar - Military-Bureaucrat
Q23.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Identify the forest tribe during sixteenth and seventeenth century with the help of following information: In Assam these Tribal Chiefs became kings. They rendered military service in exchange of land. They declared their monopoly on catching wild animals.

  1. Lohani tribe
  2. Santhal tribe
  3. Ahom tribe
  4. Munda tribe
Q24.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

The land was classified into four categories under the rule of Akbar. Which of these four categories was considered the best ?

  1. Polaj
  2. Parauti
  3. Chachar
  4. Banjar
Q25.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following are correct about Mughal Land Revenue Collection? (i) Kankut: Estimation of crops as good, middle and inferior (ii) Batai: Crops were reaped, sacked and divided by agreement (iii) Khet Batai: Division of fields before they were sown (iv) Lang Batai: Division of crops among Kings and Zamindars. Choose the correct option:

  1. (ii) and (iv)
  2. (iii) and (iv)
  3. (i) and (ii)
  4. (ii) and (iii)
Q26.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Consider the following statements regarding the central purpose of the Ain-i-Akbari: (i) Ain-i-Akbari was written by Abdul Fazal. (ii) Ain-i-Akbari presents a picture of Akbar's empire. (iii) Ain-i-Akbari highlighted the strength of the Mughal Army. (iv) Ain-i-Akbari mentions the Iqta system of Mughals. Choose the correct option:

  1. (i), (ii) and (iv)
  2. (i), (ii) and (iii)
  3. (i), (iii) and (iv)
  4. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
Q27.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Ricarda's Theory was related to which of the following aspects?

  1. Social
  2. Political
  3. Economic
  4. Cultural
Q28.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Consider the following statements regarding the central purpose of the Ain-i-Akbari: (i) Ain-i-Akbari was written by Abu Fazal. (ii) Ain-i-Akbari reflects the administrative system of Akbar. (iii) Ain-i-Akbari highlighted the strength of the Mughal Army. (iv) Ain-i-Akbari mentions the Iqta system of Mughals. Choose the correct option:

  1. (i), (ii) and (iv)
  2. (i), (ii) and (iii)
  3. (i), (iii) and (iv)
  4. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
Q29.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following are correct about Mughal Land Revenue Collection? (i) Kankut: Estimation of crops as good, middle and inferior (ii) Batai: Crops were reaped, sacked and divided by agreement (iii) Khet Batai: Division of fields before they were sown (iv) Lang Batai: Division of crops among Kings and Zamindars Choose the correct option:

  1. (ii) and (iv)
  2. (iii) and (iv)
  3. (i) and (ii)
  4. (ii) and (iii)
Q30.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Consider the following statements regarding the central purpose of the Ain-i-Akbari: (i) Ain-i-Akbari was written by Abul Fazl. (ii) Ain-i-Akbari presents the structure of Akbar's empire. (iii) Ain-i-Akbari highlighted the strength of the Mughal Army. (iv) Ain-i-Akbari mentions the Iqta system of Mughals. Choose the correct option:

  1. (i), (ii) and (iv)
  2. (i), (ii) and (iii)
  3. (i), (iii) and (iv)
  4. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
Q31.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Riskatta's theory was related to which of the following aspects?

  1. Social
  2. Political
  3. Economic
  4. Cultural
Q32.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Fill in the blank: The Mughal administrative system had an apex, a military cum bureaucratic apparatus _____________ which looked after civil and military affairs.

  1. Iqta system
  2. Mansabdari system
  3. Amara-nayaka system
  4. Ijaredari system
Q33.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Two statements as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and select the correct option: Assertion (A): Our major source to know agrarian history of 16th and 17th centuries is the chronicle known as Ain-i-Akbari. Reason (R): This text meticulously recorded the arrangements made by the state to ensure cultivation, collect revenue and relations between state and zamindars.

  1. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A)
  2. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A)
  3. Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false
  4. Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true

Very short answer (2)

Q34.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Mention any one territory which was under the control of Mughals in Northern India. (For Visually Impaired candidates only)

Q35.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Analyse the role of Panchayats in the Mughal rural society.

Short answer (24)

Q36.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Examine the role of Panchayat in advocating for the rights of common people during the Mughal era.

Q37.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Describe the role of Panchayats in the Mughal era.

Q38.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Describe the role of Zamindars in the Mughal era.

Q39.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Describe the role of village artisans in the Mughal era.

Q40.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

How did the Mughal rulers classify agricultural land for revenue? Explain with examples.

Q41.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

How did the zamindars contribute to the functioning of Mughal governance? Explain with examples.

Q42.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Examine how the Mughal Panchayats influenced social and economic policies of the village.

Q43.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

"Revenue from the land was the economic mainstay of the Mughal empire." Support the statement with examples.

Q44.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

"The villages in the Mughal empire were seen as Little Republics." Support the statement with examples.

Q45.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

How did the women lead their life in the Mughal rural society? Explain with examples.

Q46.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

There are some limitations of Ain-i-Akbari. Examine the statement.

Q47.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Analyse the life of forest dwellers in the Mughal Empire.

Q48.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

How did Mughals organize their land revenue system? Explain.

Q49.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain how the forest dwellers earned their livelihood during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Q50.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Examine the role played by Zamindars in Mughal India.

Q51.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain why were women considered an important resource in agrarian society during sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.

Q52.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Analyse the role of village artisans in Mughal India.

Q53.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Examine the land revenue system of Mughal India.

Q54.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

"Ain-i-Akbari is considered a major source for the agrarian history of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries." Examine the statement.

Q55.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Examine the various functions of the Panchayats during sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.

Q56.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Examine the major sources of income of the Panchayats during sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.

Q57.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Describe any three experiences of Francois Bernier in India.

Q58.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

The Mughals had their own administrative concerns and conflicts with their zamindars. Explain this statement.

Q59.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

The Mughals had political relations and conflicts with their own power centers. Clarify the statement.

Long answer (3)

Q60.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

Imagine if you were developing an educational programme on forest life during the Mughal era. What key aspects of the life of forest-dwellers during that time would you explain? Substantiate.

Q61.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

The role of women in the Mughal agrarian society was significant. Explain the statement giving examples.

Q62.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

Explain the statement that the Mughals had their own methods.

Case-based (8)

Case study · CBSE 2023

Cash or Kind ? The Ain on land revenue collection: Let him (the amil-guzar) not make it a practice of taking only in cash but also in kind. The latter is effected in several ways. First, kankut: in the Hindi language kan signifies grain, and kutse, the crops should be cut and estimated in three lots, the good, the middling, and the inferior, and the hesitation removed. Often, too, the land taken by appraisement, gives a sufficiently accurate return. Secondly, batai, also called bhaoli, the crops are reaped and stacked and divided by agreement in the presence of the parties. But in this case several intelligent inspectors are required; otherwise, the evil-minded and false are given to deception. Thirdly, khet-batai, when they divide the fields after they are sown. Fourthly, lang batai, after cutting the grain, they form it in heaps and divide it among themselves, and each takes his share home and turns it to profit.

Q63.CBSE 2023 · 4 marks

Explain the meaning of cash.

Case study · CBSE 2023

Cash or Kind? The Ain on land revenue collection: Let him (the amil-guzar) not make it a practice of taking only in cash but also in kind. The latter is effected in several ways. First, kankut: in the Hindi language kan signifies grain, and kutand estimated in three lots, the good, the middling, and the inferior, and the hesitation removed. Often, too, the land taken by appraisement, gives a sufficiently accurate return. Secondly, batai, also called bhaoli, the crops are reaped and stacked and divided by agreement in the presence of the parties. But in this case several intelligent inspectors are required; otherwise, the evil-minded and false are given to deception. Thirdly, khet-batai, when they divide the fields after they are sown. Fourthly, lang batai, after cutting the grain, they form it in heaps and divide it among themselves, and each takes his share home and turns it to profit.

Q64.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Explain the meaning of cash.

Case study · CBSE 2023

Cash or Kind ? The Ain on land revenue collection : Let him (the amil-guzar) not make it a practice of taking only in cash but also in kind. The latter is effected in several ways. First, kankut: in the Hindi language kan signifies grain, and kutf any doubts arise, the crops should be cut and estimated in three lots, the good, the middling, and the inferior, and the hesitation removed. Often, too, the land taken by appraisement, gives a sufficiently accurate return. Secondly, batai, also called bhaoli, the crops are reaped and stacked and divided by agreement in the presence of the parties. But in this case several intelligent inspectors are required; otherwise, the evil-minded and false are given to deception. Thirdly, khet-batai, when they divide the fields after they are sown. Fourthly, lang batai, after cutting the grain, they form it in heaps and divide it among themselves, and each takes his share home and turns it to profit.

Q65.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Explain the meaning of cash.

Case study · CBSE 2023

Irrigating trees and fields. This is an excerpt from the Babur Nama that describes the irrigation devices the emperor observed in northern India: The greater part of Hindustan country is situated on level land. Many though its towns and cultivated lands are, it nowhere has running waters ... For ... water is not at all a necessity in cultivating crops and orchards. Autumn crops grow by the downpour of the rains themselves; and strange it is that spring crops grow even when no rains fall. (However) to young trees water is made to flow by means of buckets or wheels ... In Lahore, Dipalpur (both in present-day Pakistan) and those other parts, people water by means of a wheel. They make two circles of rope long enough to suit the depths of the well, fix strips of wood between them, and on these fasten pitchers. The ropes with the wood and attached pitchers are put over the wheel-well. At one end of the wheel-axle a second wheel is fixed, and close to it another on an upright axle. The last wheel the bullock turns; its teeth catch in the teeth of the second (wheel), and thus the wheel with the pitchers is turned. A trough is set where the water empties from the pitchers and from this the water is conveyed everywhere. In Agra, Chandwar, Bayana (all in present-day Uttar Pradesh) and those parts again, people water with a bucket ... At the well-edge they set up a fork of wood, having a roller adjusted between the forks, tie a rope to a large bucket, put the rope over a roller, and tie its other end to the bullock. One person must drive the bullock, another empty the bucket.

Q66.CBSE 2023 · 4 marks

(32.1) Examine the factor that accounted for the expansion of agriculture in Mughal Period.

Q67.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Examine the factor that accounted for the expansion of agriculture in Mughal Period.

Case study · CBSE 2023

Peasants on the move. This was a feature of agrarian society which struck a keen observer like Babur, the first Mughal emperor, forcefully enough for him to write about it in the Babur Nama, his memoirs: In Hindustan hamlets and villages, towns indeed, are depopulated and set up in a moment! If the people of a large town, one inhabited for years even, flee from it, they do it in such a way that not a sign or trace of them remains in a day and a half. On the other hand, if they fix their eyes on a place to settle, they need not dig water courses because their crops are all rain-grown, and as the population of Hindustan is unlimited it swarms in. They make a tank or a well; they need not build houses or set up walls . . . khas-grass abounds, wood is unlimited, huts are made, and straightaway there is a village or a town!

Q68.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

What is Babur Nama?

Case study · CBSE 2023

This was a feature of agrarian society which struck a keen observer like Babur, the first Mughal emperor, forcefully enough for him to write about it in the Babur Nama, his memoirs: In Hindustan hamlets and villages, towns indeed, are depopulated and set up in a moment! If the people of a large town, one inhabited for years even, flee from it, they do it in such a way that not a sign or trace of them remains in a day and a half. On the other hand, if they fix their eyes on a place to settle, they need not dig water courses because their crops are all rain-grown, and as the population of Hindustan is unlimited it swarms in. They make a tank or a well; they need not build houses or set up walls . . . khas-grass abounds, wood is unlimited, huts are made, and straightaway there is a village or a town!

Q69.CBSE 2023 · 4 marks

What is Babur Nama ?

Case study · CBSE 2023

In Hindustan hamlets and villages, towns indeed, are depopulated and set up in a moment! If the people of a large town, one inhabited for years even, flee from it, they do it in such a way that not a sign or trace of them remains in a day and a half. On the other hand, if they fix their eyes on a place to settle, they need not dig water courses because their crops are all rain-grown, and as the population of Hindustan is unlimited it swarms in. They make a tank or a well; they need not build houses or set up walls . . . khas-grass abounds, wood is unlimited, huts are made, and straightaway there is a village or a town!

Q70.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

What is Babur Nama?

9Colonialism and the Countryside: Exploring Official Archives Notes & MCQs →

Multiple choice and assertion-reason (25)

Q1.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

How did David Ricardo's ideas influence British revenue policies in India?

  1. Adoption of fixed revenue demands for Ryots
  2. Taxing landowners' surplus income based on average rent
  3. Widespread implementation of Permanent Settlement
  4. Rejection of revenue in favour of village development
Q2.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Find the odd one out regarding the Permanent Settlement of 1793.

  1. The Sunset law
  2. The Burdwan's Auction
  3. The Fifth Report
  4. The Deccan Riots Commission
Q3.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following was the main cause of the Santhal Rebellion of 1855?

  1. Imposition of the Summary Settlement
  2. Cultural suppression by the British
  3. Imposition of Western education
  4. Heavy taxes and land annexation
Q4.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following statements best describes the effect of the Permanent Settlement on zamindars?

  1. They become landless labourers.
  2. They all were replaced by Jotedars.
  3. They sold their land to British.
  4. They gained significant control over land.
Q5.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Two statements labelled as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and select the correct option: Assertion (A): India was considered a suitable country for cotton cultivation due to its soil, climate and cheap labour, by the Britishers. Reason (R): The American Civil War (1861 – 65) caused a significant drop in raw cotton imports from America, leading Britain to seek alternative sources.

  1. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  2. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  3. Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
  4. Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
Q6.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Read the statements about the Deccan Riots Commission. Identify which of the following options is correct. I. The Government of Bombay established an enquiry commission to investigate the causes of the riots. II. The Deccan Riots Report was presented to the British Parliament in 1878. III. The Commission's report included only qualitative data from the eyewitnesses. IV. The enquiry process involved recording statements from ryots and sahukars.

  1. I, II and III
  2. II, III and IV
  3. I, II and IV
  4. I, III and IV
Q7.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following was the consequence of not paying the revenue by sunset on the specified date under the British Sunset Law enacted in Bengal?

  1. The payment period was extended
  2. The Zamindari was put on auction
  3. The revenue rates were reduced
  4. The case was referred to the High Court
Q8.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Fill in the blank with the appropriate option from the following: The __________ was established by the British government in 1875 to investigate the economic distress and role of East India Company in Bombay and the Deccan.

  1. Regulating Act
  2. Deccan Riots Commission
  3. Fifth Report
  4. Pitts India Act
Q9.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following was not the provision of the 'Limitation Law' passed by the British in 1859?

  1. The loan bonds signed between the money-lenders and ryots would have validity of three years.
  2. The law was to check the accumulation of interest over time.
  3. The money-lenders and ryots used to renew the bonds after every three years.
  4. Ryots were given permanent stakes in land as interlopers.
Q10.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Arrange the following in chronological order and choose the correct option: (i) Limitation Law (ii) Sunset Law (iii) Santhal Rebellion (iv) Bombay-Deccan Riots

  1. (ii), (iii), (i), (iv)
  2. (i), (ii), (iv), (iii)
  3. (iii), (iv), (ii), (i)
  4. (iv), (iii), (i), (ii)
Q11.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following was a significant criticism of the Permanent Settlement?

  1. The Zamindars got the permanent rights on the lands.
  2. The British contacted the peasants directly.
  3. The system increased the influence of tribal communities.
  4. This system resulted in Bombay-Deccan riots.
Q12.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Two statements as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and choose the correct option: Assertion (A): Zamindars in the Permanent Settlement failed to pay the revenue demand and unpaid balances accumulated. Reason (R): According to the Sunset Law, if payment did not come in by sunset of the specified date, the zamindari was liable to be auctioned.

  1. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are correct and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  2. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are correct, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  3. Assertion (A) is correct, but Reason (R) is incorrect.
  4. Assertion (A) is incorrect, but Reason (R) is correct.
Q13.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following was the primary characteristic of the Ryotwari system implemented by the British in 'Bombay Deccan'?

  1. Indirect revenue collection through zamindars
  2. Collective ownership of land by village community
  3. The Britishers settled revenue directly with the peasants
  4. Lands were given to the Jotedars to promote equality
Q14.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

In which of the following districts did the ryots revolt against sahukaars of the Ryotwari system?

  1. Awadh
  2. Barrackpore
  3. Bhagalpur
  4. Poona
Q15.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

In which of the following districts did the ryots revolt against sahukars of the Ryotwari system?

  1. Awadh
  2. Barrackpore
  3. Bhagalpur
  4. Poona
Q16.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who among the following proposed a 'Policy of Pacification' with the Paharias in 1770 in Bhagalpur?

  1. William Hodge
  2. Augustus Cleveland
  3. George Chinray
  4. Captain Cook
Q17.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Arrange the following in chronological order and choose the correct option.

I. Limitation Law passed by the British II. Starting of Permanent Settlement in Bengal III. Santhal Rebellion IV. Ryotwari settlement in Bombay Deccan

  1. I, II, III, and IV
  2. II, III, I and IV
  3. II, IV, III and I
  4. III, IV, I and II
Q18.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Arrange the following in chronological order and choose the correct option. I. Limitation Law passed by the British II. Starting of Permanent Settlement in Bengal III. Santhal Rebellion IV. Ryotwari settlement in Bombay Deccan

  1. I, II, III, and IV
  2. II, III, I and IV
  3. II, IV, III and I
  4. III, IV, I and II
Q19.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Identify the primary purpose of Britishers to implement Permanent Settlement in Bengal. Choose the best suitable option from the following:

  1. To empower peasants of the region.
  2. To abolish land ownership in the region.
  3. To increase agricultural productivity of Jotedars.
  4. To provide financial stability to British govt.
Q20.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following established the Permanent Settlement in Bengal ?

  1. Thomas Munro
  2. Charles Cornwallis
  3. William Bentinck
  4. Henry Hardinge
Q21.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Identify the officer of the English East India Company with the help of following information: He was a physician of Lord Wellesley. He surveyed Bengal. He established zoo in Bengal.

  1. Colin Mackenzie
  2. John Marshall
  3. Marco Polo
  4. Francis Buchanan
Q22.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who implemented the Ryotwari system in Bengal?

  1. Thomas Munro
  2. Charles Cornwallis
  3. William Bentinck
  4. Henry Hardinge
Q23.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which one of the following revenue systems was implemented by Charles Cornwallis in India?

  1. The Zamindari System
  2. The Mahalwari System
  3. The Ryotwari System
  4. The Malguzari System
Q24.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Match the following events: List I (Event): i. Fifth Report ii. Deccan Riot Commission iii. Damin-i-koh iv. American Civil War; List II (Correlation): 1. Zamindari system 2. Santhal land 3. Cotton boom 4. Ryotwari system

  1. i→2, ii→1, iii→3, iv→4
  2. i→3, ii→2, iii→1, iv→4
  3. i→1, ii→4, iii→2, iv→3
  4. i→4, ii→3, iii→1, iv→2
Q25.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Match the following events: List I (Event): i. Fifth Report ii. Deccan Riot Commission iii. Damin-i-koh iv. American Civil War. List II (Correlation): 1. Zamindari system 2. Ryotwari system 3. Cotton boom 4. Forest land. Choose the correct option:

  1. i→2, ii→1, iii→3, iv→4
  2. i→3, ii→2, iii→1, iv→4
  3. i→1, ii→4, iii→2, iv→3
  4. i→4, ii→3, iii→1, iv→2

Very short answer (1)

Q26.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Analyse the policies adopted by the British towards Paharias of Rajmahal Hills during the eighteenth century.

Short answer (19)

Q27.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Analyse the impact of the Ryotwari system on the ryots of Bombay.

Q28.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Analyse the main objectives of the British government in implementing the Permanent Settlement in Bengal?

Q29.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Analyse the main causes of conflict between the Paharias and Santhals.

Q30.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

How did the geographical features of the Rajmahal hills impact the lives of the Paharias ? Explain.

Q31.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Describe any three features of the Ryotwari system.

Q32.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Why was there a panic in the cotton circles of Britain over the American Civil War? Explain.

Q33.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain the causes that led to the conflict between the Paharias of Rajmahal Hills and the Santhals.

Q34.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Critically examine the Fifth Report of 1813.

Q35.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Analyse the causes of Bombay-Deccan Riots.

Q36.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Analyse how Santhals settled in the periphery of Raj Mahal hills in the beginning of nineteenth century.

Q37.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Why did Ryots of Deccan India revolt against the moneylenders during the colonial period? Explain.

Q38.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Why did Santhals rebel against the Zamindars, moneylenders and the Britishers? Explain.

Q39.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

How did the American Civil War of 1861 affect the lives of Ryots of India ? Explain.

Q40.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain why did the Paharias of Rajmahal hills regularly raid the settled agriculturists on the plains during the 18th century.

Q41.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain the policies adopted by the British towards Paharias in the second half of the 18th century.

Q42.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Analyse the statement: When they introduced Permanent Settlement, British officials had some ideas in their minds.

Q43.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

The jotedars were more effective than that of zamindars in the villages. Examine the statement in the context of Permanent Settlement.

Q44.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

When they introduced Permanent Settlement in Bengal in 1793, the British officials had some ideas in their minds. Analyse the statement.

Q45.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Analyse the statement: Some thoughts existed in the minds of British officials when they introduced Permanent Settlement in Bengal in 1793.

Long answer (5)

Q46.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

Imagine you are leading a historical research team. How would you explain the role of Ryotwari System in fostering rural indebtness and its long-term consequences on Bombay-Deccan peasantry? Explain.

Q47.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

Examine various aspects of administration and other activities of East India Company as contained in the fifth report.

Q48.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Examine the factors that influenced the implementation of the Permanent Settlement in Bengal and its consequences.

Q49.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

Examine the salient features of Permanent Settlement in Bengal. Why did the British expect this revenue system to solve their problems ?

Q50.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

Analyse the causes that led to the Bombay Deccan Riots.

Case-based (6)

Case study · CBSE 2025

On clearance and settled cultivation Passing through one village in the lower Rajmahal hills, Buchanan wrote: The view of the country is exceedingly fine, the cultivation, especially the narrow valleys of rice winding in all directions, the cleared lands with scattered trees, and the rocky hills are in perfection; all that is wanted is some appearance of progress in the area and a vastly extended and improved cultivation, of which the country is highly susceptible. Plantations of Asan and Palas, for Tessar (Tassar silkworms) and Lac, should occupy the place of woods to as great an extent as the demand will admit; the remainder might be all cleared, and the greater part cultivated, while what is not fit for the purpose, might rear Plamira (palmyra) and Mowa (mahua).

Q51.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

33.1 How did Buchanan describe the view of the lower Rajmahal hills?

Q52.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

32.1 How did Buchanan describe the view of the lower Rajmahal hills?

Q53.CBSE 2025 · 4 marks

How did Buchanan describe the view of the lower Rajmahal hills?

Case study · CBSE 2024

A ryot petition This is an example of a petition from a ryot of the village of Mirajgaon, Taluka Karjat, to the Collector, Ahmednagar, Deccan Riots Commission: The sowkars (sahukars).... have of late begun to oppress us. As we cannot earn enough to defray our household expenses, we are actually forced to beg of them to provide us with money, clothes and grain, which we obtain from them not without great difficulty, nor without their compelling us to enter into hard conditions in the bond. Moreover the necessary clothes and grain are not sold to us at cash rates. The prices asked from us are generally twenty-five or fifty per cent more than demanded from customers making ready money payments... The produce of our fields is also taken by the sowkars, who at the time of removing it assure us that it will be credited to our account, but they do not actually make any mention of it in the accounts. They also refuse to pass us any receipts for the produce so removed by them.

Q54.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

In what ways the money-lenders oppressed the ryots?

Case study · CBSE 2023

The jotedars of Dinajpur. Buchanan described the ways in which the jotedars of Dinajpur in North Bengal resisted being disciplined by the zamindar and undermined his power: Landlords do not like this class of men, but it is evident that they are absolutely necessary, unless the landlords themselves would advance money to their necessitous tenantry ... The jotedars who cultivate large portions of lands are very refractory, and know that the zamindars have no power over them. They pay only a few rupees on account of their revenue and then fall in balance almost every kist (instalment), they hold more lands than they are entitled to by their pottahs (deeds of consequence, summon them to the cutcherry, and detain them for one or two hours with a view to reprimand them, they immediately go and complain at the Fouzdarry Thanna (police station) for the lower court) cutcherry for being dishonoured and whilst the causes continue unsettled, they instigate the petty ryots not to pay their revenue consequently ...

Q55.CBSE 2023 · 4 marks

(33.1) Why did jotedars resist the Zamindars of Dinajpur?

Q56.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Why did jotedars resist the Zamindars of Dinajpur?

10Rebels and the Raj: 1857 Revolt and Its Representations Notes & MCQs →

Multiple choice and assertion-reason (32)

Q1.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Two statements labelled as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and select the correct option: Assertion (A): The Subsidiary Alliance system introduced by Lord Wellesley, significantly weakened the Indian Princely States. Reason (R): Indian rulers lost their military autonomy under the Subsidiary Alliance.

  1. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  2. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  3. Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
  4. Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
Q2.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following was a key feature of the 'Subsidiary Alliance' introduced by Lord Wellesley in 1798?

  1. Free Trade Policy brought by British
  2. Maintenance of native army by British
  3. Imposition of Western Customs by British
  4. Protection of native territory by British
Q3.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Why were the British keen to annex the territory of Awadh? Choose the correct option from the following:

  1. To suppress the nationalist movement in Awadh.
  2. To get access to Awadh's rich resources.
  3. To strengthen their control in the west in India.
  4. To enhance British military control in Central India.
Q4.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following was the main cause of the Santhal Rebellion of 1855?

  1. Imposition of the Summary Settlement
  2. Cultural suppression by the British
  3. Imposition of Western education
  4. Heavy taxes and land annexation
Q5.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Match the Column-I with Column-II and choose the correct option: Column-I (Leadership of the Revolt of 1857) - Column-II (Regions) a. Shah Mal - I. Lucknow b. Kunwar Singh - II. Kanpur c. Birjis Qadr - III. Baraut d. Nana Sahib - IV. Arrah

  1. a-III, b-II, c-I, d-IV
  2. a-III, b-IV, c-II, d-I
  3. a-II, b-III, c-IV, d-I
  4. a-IV, b-I, c-III, d-II
Q6.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Match the Column-I with Column-II and choose the correct option: Column-I (Leadership of the Revolt of 1857) - Column-II (Regions) a. Shah Mal - I. Lucknow b. Kunwar Singh - II. Kanpur c. Birjis Qadri - III. Baraut d. Nana Sahib - IV. Arrah

  1. a-II, b-III, c-IV, d-I
  2. a-III, b-IV, c-I, d-II
  3. a-III, b-II, c-I, d-IV
  4. a-IV, b-II, c-III, d-I
Q7.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Find the odd one out regarding the revolt of 1857 from the following:

  1. Arrah: Kunwar Singh
  2. Barout: Shah Mal
  3. Singhbhum: Gonu
  4. Hyderabad: Maulavi Ahmadullah Shah
Q8.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Fill in the blank with the suitable option given below: The Revolt of 1857 marked the end of the _______ dynasty in India.

  1. Maratha
  2. Rajput
  3. Scindhia
  4. Mughal
Q9.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Choose the correct option from the following to fill in the blank regarding the role of leaders in the Revolt of 1857. Nana Saheb: Kanpur; Kunwar Singh: ____________

  1. Gwalior
  2. Meerut
  3. Singhbhum
  4. Arrah
Q10.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Who amongst the following wrote the line "Khoob Ladi Mardani, Woh To Jhansi Wali Rani Thi"?

  1. Mahadevi Verma
  2. Harivansh Rai Bachchan
  3. Subhadra Kumari Chauhan
  4. Ramdhari Singh Dinkar
Q11.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following policies by the British led to discontent among Indian soldiers, contributing to the Revolt of 1857?

  1. The policy of Subsidiary Alliance
  2. The Doctrine of Lapse of Dalhousie
  3. The use of Enfield Rifles with greased cartridges
  4. The introduction of western education system
Q12.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

From the following identify the local leader of Singhbhum who led the cultivators to join the Revolt of 1857.

  1. Shah Mal
  2. Birjis Qadr
  3. Gonoo
  4. Kunwar Singh
Q13.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option: Column I (Name of the Viceroys): 1. Lord Wellesley, 2. Lord Dalhousie, 3. Lord Bentinck, 4. Lord Hardinge. Column II (Role): (i) Introduced annexation policies, (ii) Introduced Subsidiary Alliance, (iii) Introduced greased cartridges, (iv) Introduced reformative polices.

  1. 1-(iii), 2-(ii), 3-(i), 4-(iv)
  2. 1-(iv), 2-(iii), 3-(ii), 4-(i)
  3. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iv), 4-(iii)
  4. 1-(i), 2-(iv), 3-(iii), 4-(ii)
Q14.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Identify the name of a British official from the information given below. He adopted policies of reforming Indian society by introducing western education. He established laws to abolish Sati system. He permitted remarriage of Hindu widows

  1. Lord Mountbatten
  2. Lord Wellesley
  3. Lord William Bentinck
  4. Lord Ripon
Q15.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who among the following described the following line for Kingdom of Awadh? "A cherry that will fall into our mouth one day."

  1. Lord Cornwallis
  2. Lord Wellesley
  3. Lord Dalhousie
  4. Lord Canning
Q16.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option: Column I (Name of the Viceroys): 1. Lord Wellesley (i) Introduced annexation policies 2. Lord Dalhousie (ii) Introduced Subsidiary Alliance 3. Lord Bentinck (iii) Introduced greased cartridges 4. Lord Hardinge (iv) Introduced reformative polices

  1. 1-(iii), 2-(ii), 3-(i), 4-(iv)
  2. 1-(iv), 2-(iii), 3-(ii), 4-(i)
  3. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iv), 4-(iii)
  4. 1-(i), 2-(iv), 3-(iii), 4-(ii)
Q17.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who among the following rebels took over the bungalow of a British official and turned it into a 'hall of justice' to settle disputes during 1857 in Uttar Pradesh?

  1. Shah Mal
  2. Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah
  3. Gonoo
  4. Kunwar Singh
Q18.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Arrange the following events regarding the Revolt of 1857 in chronological order and choose the correct option from the following: I. Summary Settlement in Awadh II. Subsidiary Alliance in Awadh III. Reforming policies of William Bentinck IV. Azamgarh Proclamation

  1. II, III, I, IV
  2. III, II, IV, I
  3. I, III, IV, II
  4. IV, I, II, III
Q19.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match the Leaders of the Revolt of 1857 (List I) with their Centres (List II) and choose the correct option from the following: List I (Leaders): 1. Nana Sahib, 2. Kunwar Singh, 3. Wajid Ali Shah, 4. Birjis Qadr. List II (Centres): (i) Awadh, (ii) Kanpur, (iii) Bihar, (iv) Lucknow.

  1. 1-(iii), 2-(i), 3-(ii), 4-(iv)
  2. 1-(ii), 2-(iii), 3-(i), 4-(iv)
  3. 1-(iv), 2-(ii), 3-(iii), 4-(i)
  4. 1-(i), 2-(iv), 3-(ii), 4-(iii)
Q20.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match the Leaders of the Revolt of 1857 (List I) with their Centres (List II) and choose the correct option from the following:

  1. 1-(iii), 2-(i), 3-(ii), 4-(iv)
  2. 1-(ii), 2-(iii), 3-(i), 4-(iv)
  3. 1-(iv), 2-(ii), 3-(iii), 4-(i)
  4. 1-(i), 2-(iv), 3-(ii), 4-(iii)
Q21.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

"Khoob ladi mardani, woh to Jhansi wali rani thi." Who among the following has written these lines and portrayed Laxmi Bai as a symbol to resist injustice?

  1. Sarojini Naidu
  2. Suryakant Tripathi Nirala
  3. Harivansh Rai Bachchan
  4. Subhadra Kumari Chauhan
Q22.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option from the following: Column I (Leaders of the Revolt of 1857) | Column II (Related Region) 1. Kunwar Singh | (i) Singhbhum 2. Shah Mal | (ii) Arrah 3. Birjis Qadr | (iii) Barout 4. Gonoo | (iv) Lucknow

  1. 1-(i), 2-(ii), 3-(iii), 4-(iv)
  2. 1-(iii), 2-(ii), 3-(iv), 4-(i)
  3. 1-(ii), 2-(iii), 3-(iv), 4-(i)
  4. 1-(iv), 2-(ii), 3-(iii), 4-(i)
Q23.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option from the following: Column I (Leaders of the Revolt of 1857): 1. Kunwar Singh 2. Shah Mal 3. Birjis Qadr 4. Gonoo | Column II (Related Region): (i) Singhbhum (ii) Arrah (iii) Barout (iv) Lucknow

  1. 1-(i), 2-(ii), 3-(iii), 4-(iv)
  2. 1-(iii), 2-(ii), 3-(iv), 4-(i)
  3. 1-(ii), 2-(iii), 3-(iv), 4-(i)
  4. 1-(iv), 2-(ii), 3-(iii), 4-(i)
Q24.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which one of the following pairs is correctly matched?

  1. Kanpur – Kunwar Singh
  2. Bihar – Gonoo
  3. Lucknow – Birjis Qadr
  4. Singhbhum – Nana Saheb
Q25.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who among the following was the leader of the revolt of 1857 from Bihar region?

  1. Shahmal
  2. Kunwar Singh
  3. Gonoo
  4. Nana Saheb
Q26.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

At which of the following places the mutiny broke out on 10th day of May 1857?

  1. Barrakpore
  2. Delhi
  3. Meerut Cantt
  4. Lucknow
Q27.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following statements are correct ? (i) The English introduced western education in India. (ii) They set up English-medium schools and colleges. (iii) They established laws to abolish sati system. (iv) They did not permit widow remarriage.

  1. (i), (ii) and (iii)
  2. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
  3. (i), (iii) and (iv)
  4. (i), (ii) and (iv)
Q28.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which of the following option is correctly matched ?

  1. Jhansi - Bahadur Shah
  2. Arrah - Kunwar Singh
  3. Delhi - Wajid Ali Shah
  4. Awadh - Lakshmi Bai
Q29.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Identify the leader of the Revolt of 1857 with the help of the following information: Was the ruler of Delhi; Was the last Mughal ruler; Gave legitimacy to the rebels of 1857 against the British

  1. Bahadur Shah Zafar
  2. Shah Alam
  3. Muhammad Shah
  4. Wajid Ali Shah
Q30.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who led the Revolt of 1857 from Lucknow?

  1. Alamgir
  2. Birjis Qadr
  3. Nana Sahib
  4. Peshwa Baji Rao
Q31.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following was the Emperor at Delhi during the 1857 Revolt?

  1. Birjis Qadr
  2. Aurangzeb
  3. Bahadur Shah
  4. Farukh Siyar
Q32.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following assumed leadership of the Revolt of 1857 from Arrah, Bihar?

  1. Kunwar Singh
  2. Nana Saheb
  3. Tatya Tope
  4. Shah Mal

Very short answer (4)

Q33.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Describe the role of rumours and prophecies in the Revolt of 1857.

Q34.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Mention any three sources to know about the Revolt of 1857.

Q35.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Mention the relationship between the Indian sepoys and British officials that led to the Revolt of 1857.

Q36.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Explain the impact of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah's exile in 1856 on the people of Awadh.

Short answer (28)

Q37.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Analyse the policies adopted by William Bentinck to reform Indian society.

Q38.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Analyse the impact of the policy of annexation imposed by the British during 1850's.

Q39.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Examine the rumours that spread across India during 1850's.

Q40.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

"The rebellion of 1857 was seen as a war in which both Hindus and Muslims had equally to lose or gain." Analyse the statement.

Q41.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Examine how art and literature have helped in keeping the memories of 1857 alive.

Q42.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Examine the repressive measures undertaken by the British Govt. to control the rebellion of 1857.

Q43.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

(a) Why was the Revolt of 1857 specially widespread in Awadh? Explain.

Q44.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Describe any three sources to know about the Revolt of 1857.

Q45.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Describe the role of art and literature in keeping alive the memory of the Revolt of 1857.

Q46.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

How did the rumours play a role in moving the people to revolt against the British during 1857? Explain.

Q47.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain any three sources to know about the Revolt of 1857.

Q48.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

How did the Britishers exploit Indian Sepoys during 1850s? Explain.

Q49.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Under what circumstances did Bahadur Shah Zafar bless the rebellion of 1857? Explain.

Q50.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

How did the rebel proclamations of 1857 appeal for unity? Explain.

Q51.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Why did Awadh become one of the major centres of Revolt of 1857? Explain.

Q52.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

How did the British in the 1850s control the power of Taluqdars? Explain.

Q53.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain any three sources to learn about the Revolt of 1857.

Q54.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain the role of Bahadur Shah Zafar in the Revolt of 1857.

Q55.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

How do the images of the Revolt of 1857 reflect the emotions and feelings of Indians? Explain.

Q56.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain the measures taken up by the rebels of 1857 to ensure unity among themselves.

Q57.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

How did the Britishers suppress the Revolt of 1857? Explain with examples.

Q58.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain the rumours that led to the Revolt of 1857.

Q59.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain the provisions of Subsidiary Alliance System.

Q60.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Explain why the Britishers were interested in acquiring the region of Awadh under their control.

Q61.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Explain the main provisions of Subsidiary Alliance as devised by Lord Wellesley in 1798.

Q62.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Describe any three rumours that played a part in the Revolt of 1857.

Q63.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Explain why the Revolt of 1857 became an expression of popular resistance in Awadh than any where else to the British rule.

Q64.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

The Revolt of 1857 was seen as a war that glorified the co-existence of different communities. Explain the statement with examples.

Long answer (5)

Q65.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

The proclamations issued in 1857 appealed to everyone to remain united against British rule. Substantiate the statement with examples.

Q66.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

The rebels of 1857 wanted to restore the pre-British world. Explain this statement with appropriate examples.

Q67.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

To understand the Revolt of 1857, the declarations of rebels, official accounts and visual representations of military men are the major sources. Support the statement with examples.

Q68.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

The British used military power on gigantic scale and passed number of Acts to suppress the Revolt of 1857. Elucidate the statement with suitable examples.

Q69.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

"The link between sepoys and the rural peasant folk had important implications in the course of the Revolt of 1857." Elucidate the statement with suitable examples.

Case-based (10)

Case study · CBSE 2025

Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah was one of the many maulvis who played an important part in the revolt of 1857. Educated in Hyderabad, he became a preacher when young. In 1856, he was seen moving from village to village preaching jehad (religious war) against the British and urging people to rebel. He moved in a palanquin, with drumbeaters in front and followers at the rear. He was therefore popularly called Danka Shah – the maulvi with the drum (danka). British officials panicked as thousands began following the maulvi and many Muslims began seeing him as an inspired prophet. When he reached Lucknow in 1856, he was stopped by the police from preaching in the city. Subsequently, in 1857, he was jailed in Faizabad. When released, he was elected by the mutinous 22nd Native Infantry as their leader. He fought in the famous Battle of Chinhat in which the British forces under Henry Lawrence were defeated. He came to be known for his courage and power. Many people in fact believed that he was invincible, had magical powers, and could not be killed by the British. It was this belief that partly formed the basis of his authority.

Q70.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Why was Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah called 'Danka Shah'?

Case study · CBSE 2025

Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah was one of the many maulvis who played an important part in the revolt of 1857. Educated in Hyderabad, he became a preacher when young. In 1856, he was seen moving from village to village preaching jehad (religious war) against the British and urging people to rebel. He moved in a palanquin, with drumbeaters in front and followers at the rear. He was therefore popularly called Danka Shah – the maulvi with the drum (danka). British officials panicked as thousands began following the maulvi and many Muslims began seeing him as an inspired prophet. When he reached Lucknow in 1856, he was stopped by the police from preaching in the city. Subsequently, in 1857, he was jailed in Faizabad. When released, he was elected by the mutinous 22nd Native Infantry as their leader. He fought in the famous Battle of Chinhat in which the British forces under Henry Lawrence were defeated. He came to be known for his courage and power. Many people in fact believed that he was invincible, had magical powers, and could not be killed by the British. It was this belief that partly formed the basis of his authority.

Q71.CBSE 2025 · 4 marks

Why was Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah called 'Danka Shah'?

Case study · CBSE 2025

Two rebels of 1857. Shah Mal. Shah Mal lived in a large village in pargana Barout in Uttar Pradesh. He belonged to a clan of Jat cultivators whose kinship ties extended over chaurasee des (eighty-four villages). The lands in the region were irrigated and fertile, with rich dark loam soil. Many of the villagers were prosperous and saw the British land revenue system as oppressive: the revenue demand was high and its collection inflexible. Consequently cultivators were losing land to outsiders, to traders and moneylenders who were coming into the area. Shah Mal mobilised the headmen and cultivators of chaurasee des, moving at night from village to village, urging people to rebel against the British. As in many other places, the revolt against the British turned into a general rebellion against all signs of oppression and injustice. Cultivators left their fields and plundered the houses of moneylenders and traders. Displaced proprietors took possession of the lands they had lost. Shah Mal's men attacked government buildings, destroyed the bridge over the river, and dug up metalled roads – partly to prevent government forces from coming into the area, and partly because bridges and roads were seen as symbols of British rule. They sent supplies to the sepoys who had mutinied in Delhi and stopped all official communication between British headquarters and Meerut. Locally acknowledged as the Raja, Shah Mal took over the bungalow of an English officer, turned it into a "hall of justice", settling disputes and dispensing judgments. He also set up an amazingly effective network of intelligence. For a period the people of the area felt that firangi raj was over, and their raj had come. Shah Mal was killed in battle in July 1857.

Q72.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

How did Shah Mal's leadership contribute to the spread of the rebellion?

Case study · CBSE 2025

Shah Mal lived in a large village in pargana Barout in Uttar Pradesh. He belonged to a clan of Jat cultivators whose kinship ties extended over chaurasee des (eighty-four villages). The lands in the region were irrigated and fertile, with rich dark loam soil. Many of the villagers were prosperous and saw the British land revenue system as oppressive: the revenue demand was high and its collection inflexible. Consequently cultivators were losing land to outsiders, to traders and moneylenders who were coming into the area. Shah Mal mobilised the headmen and cultivators of chaurasee des, moving at night from village to village, urging people to rebel against the British. As in many other places, the revolt against the British turned into a general rebellion against all signs of oppression and injustice. Cultivators left their fields and plundered the houses of moneylenders and traders. Displaced proprietors took possession of the lands they had lost. Shah Mal's men attacked government buildings, destroyed the bridge over the river, and dug up metalled roads – partly to prevent government forces from coming into the area, and partly because bridges and roads were seen as symbols of British rule. They sent supplies to the sepoys who had mutinied in Delhi and stopped all official communication between British headquarters and Meerut. Locally acknowledged as the Raja, Shah Mal took over the bungalow of an English officer, turned it into a "hall of justice", settling disputes and dispensing judgments. He also set up an amazingly effective network of intelligence. For a period the people of the area felt that firangi raj was over, and their raj had come. Shah Mal was killed in battle in July 1857.

Q73.CBSE 2025 · 4 marks

How did Shah Mal's leadership contribute to the spread of the rebellion ?

Q74.CBSE 2022 · 1 mark

Why did Shah Mal raise his voice against the Britishers?

Q75.CBSE 2022 · 1 mark

How did Shah Mal support rebels of the Revolt of 1857?

Q76.CBSE 2022 · 2 marks

How did Shah Mal show his network of intelligence?

Case study · CBSE 2025

What taluqdars thought. The attitude of the taluqdars was best expressed by Hanwant Singh, the Raja of Kalakankar, near Rae Bareli. During the mutiny, Hanwant Singh had given shelter to a British officer, and conveyed him to safety. While taking leave of the officer, Hanwant Singh told him: Sahib, your countrymen came into this country and drove out our King. You sent your officers round the districts to examine the titles to the estates. At one blow you took from me lands which from time immemorial had been in my family. I submitted. Suddenly misfortune fell upon you. The people of the land rose against you. You came to me whom you had despoiled. I have saved you. But now – now I march at the head of my retainers to Lucknow to try and drive you from the country.

Q77.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

How did Hanwant Singh express his dissatisfaction towards the British?

Case study · CBSE 2025

The attitude of the taluqdars was best expressed by Hanwant Singh, the Raja of Kalakankar, near Rae Bareli. During the mutiny, Hanwant Singh had given shelter to a British officer, and conveyed him to safety. While taking leave of the officer, Hanwant Singh told him: Sahib, your countrymen came into this country and drove out our King. You sent your officers round the districts to examine the titles to the estates. At one blow you took from me lands which from time immemorial had been in my family. I submitted. Suddenly misfortune fell upon you. The people of the land rose against you. You came to me whom you had despoiled. I have saved you. But now – now I march at the head of my retainers to Lucknow to try and drive you from the country.

Q78.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

How did Hanwant Singh express his dissatisfaction towards the British?

Case study · CBSE 2024

The Nawab has left. Another song mourned the plight of the ruler who had to leave his motherland: Noble and peasant all wept together and all the world wept and wailed Alas! The chief has bidden adieu to his country and gone abroad.

Q79.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

What was the immediate impact of the removal of the Nawab?

11Mahatma Gandhi and the Nationalist Movement Notes & MCQs →

Multiple choice and assertion-reason (21)

Q1.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option. Column I (International Leaders): a. Ho Chi Minh, b. J.M. Garibaldi, c. George Washington, d. Clement Attlee. Column II (Role): i. American war of independence, ii. British withdrawal from India, iii. The unification of Italy, iv. Struggle to free Vietnam.

  1. a-iii, b-ii, c-iv, d-i
  2. a-iv, b-iii, c-i, d-ii
  3. a-iii, b-iv, c-ii, d-i
  4. a-iv, b-ii, c-iii, d-i
Q2.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Arrange the following historical events in a correct chronological order and choose the correct option: I. Making of the Constituent Assembly II. Jallianwala Bagh Massacre III. Quit India Movement IV. Gandhi-Irwin Pact

  1. II, III, I and IV
  2. II, IV, III and I
  3. III, II, I and IV
  4. IV, III, I and II
Q3.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Why did Gandhi call for a nationwide campaign against the 'Rowlatt Act'? Choose the appropriate option from the following:

  1. The British Government closed all the schools and colleges.
  2. The first World War came to an end.
  3. British Govt. permitted detention without trial.
  4. People expected independence from the British.
Q4.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

On whose of the following advice Gandhiji spent a year in travelling around British India for getting to know the land and its people before entering into politics?

  1. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
  2. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
  3. Lala Lajpat Rai
  4. Bipin Chandra Pal
Q5.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Arrange the following events in chronological order and choose the correct option: I. Peasant Movement in Kheda II. Gandhi-Irwin Pact III. Champaran Movement IV. Noakhali Visit of Gandhiji

  1. IV, I, II, III
  2. II, I, III, IV
  3. III, II, IV, I
  4. III, I, II, IV
Q6.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Identify the leader of the Indian National Movement in 1905 with the help of the given information. • This leader was a part of the trio known as Lal-Bal-Pal, signifying their all-India character despite being from different provinces. • He belonged to Maharashtra.

  1. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
  2. Bhagat Singh
  3. Lala Hardayal
  4. Lala Lajpat Rai
Q7.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Why was the 1929 Lahore Session of Congress significant? Choose the correct option from the following:

  1. For Purna Swaraj
  2. For British alliance
  3. For Gandhiji's leadership
  4. For Rowlatt Act
Q8.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Two statements as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and select the correct option: Assertion (A): To broaden the Non-Cooperation Movement, Gandhiji had joined hands with the Khilafat Movement. Reason (R): Gandhiji hoped that coupling Non-Cooperation and Khilafat could collectively bring an end to the Colonial rule.

  1. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  2. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  3. Assertion (A) is correct, but Reason (R) is incorrect.
  4. Assertion (A) is incorrect, but Reason (R) is correct.
Q9.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who among the following belonged to the group of 'Moderates' of the Indian National Congress?

  1. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
  2. Lala Lajpat Rai
  3. Bipin Chandra Pal
  4. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
Q10.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who among the following belonged to a Moderate group of Indian National Congress?

  1. Bipin Chandra Pal
  2. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
  3. Gopal Krishan Gokhale
  4. Lala Lajpat Rai
Q11.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following statements is not correct regarding 'Quit India Movement'?

  1. Quit India Movement was a mass movement.
  2. Thousands of Indians took part in this movement.
  3. 'Independent' governments were proclaimed in Satara and Medinipur.
  4. A series of 'Praja Mandals' were established in princely states.
Q12.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following terms is used to describe Gandhiji's philosophy of 'Non-violence'?

  1. Swaraj
  2. Sarvodaya
  3. Boycott
  4. Satyagraha
Q13.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

On whose advice among the following did Gandhiji attempt to visit British India and learn about the land and its people?

  1. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
  2. Bipin Chandra Pal
  3. Lala Lajpat Rai
  4. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
Q14.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following movements was broadened by 'Lal-Bal-Pal' and conveyed it as the all-India character of their struggle from 1905-1907?

  1. Gadar Movement
  2. Swadeshi Movement
  3. Satyagraha Movement
  4. Peasant Movement
Q15.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Two statements as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and select the correct option: Assertion (A): The Jallianwala Bagh massacre marked a turning point in India's struggle for freedom. Reason (R): The massacre spoiled the relations with the British and was the beginning of Indian nationalism.

  1. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  2. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  3. Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
  4. Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
Q16.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Two statements as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and select the correct option: Assertion (A): The Jallianwala Bagh massacre marked a turning point in India's freedom struggle. Reason (R): The massacre spoiled the relations with the British and led to the beginning of Gandhi's opposition to nationalism.

  1. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  2. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
  3. Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
  4. Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
Q17.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following was called the Frontier Gandhi ?

  1. Maulana Azad
  2. Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan
  3. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
  4. Dadabhai Naoroji
Q18.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who is known as the 'Frontier Gandhi'?

  1. Maulana Azad
  2. Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan
  3. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
  4. Dadabhai Naoroji
Q19.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following was considered as a political mentor by Gandhiji?

  1. Dadabhai Naoroji
  2. Lala Lajpat Rai
  3. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
  4. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
Q20.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Arrange the following in sequence: (i) Gandhiji's Non-Cooperation (ii) Gandhiji's formation of Indian National Congress (iii) Gandhiji's Satyagraha (iv) Gandhiji's Banaras Hindu University

  1. (ii), (iv), (i), (iii)
  2. (iii), (i), (iv), (ii)
  3. (i), (ii), (iii), (iv)
  4. (iv), (iii), (ii), (i)
Q21.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Arrange the following in sequence: (i) Gandhiji's Non-Cooperation Movement (ii) Gandhiji founded Sabarmati Ashram (iii) Gandhiji's Civil Disobedience Movement (iv) Gandhiji's speech at Banaras Hindu University. Choose the correct option:

  1. (ii), (iv), (i), (iii)
  2. (iii), (i), (iv), (ii)
  3. (i), (ii), (iii), (iv)
  4. (iv), (iii), (ii), (i)

Very short answer (2)

Q22.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

How did the role of Lal-Bal-Pal of Congress convey the All-India character of their struggle?

Q23.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Explain the significance of the Congress session held at Lahore in the end of 1929.

Short answer (17)

Q24.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Examine the major activities of Gandhiji in Indian politics from 1924 to 1928.

Q25.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Gandhiji's Non-Cooperation Movement was positive and highly effective. Examine the statement.

Q26.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

There are various sources to know about Gandhji's role in the Indian freedom struggle. Explain.

Q27.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Describe the role of Gandhiji as a social reformer.

Q28.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain the early contributions of Mahatma Gandhi in India.

Q29.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Describe any three sources to know about Gandhiji.

Q30.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain how Gandhiji provided new meaning and content to the idea of Swaraj. Support the statement with suitable examples.

Q31.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

The Salt March was a notable event in the Indian freedom movement. Examine the statement.

Q32.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Gandhiji broadened the basis of nationalism in the Non-Cooperation Movement. Elaborate.

Q33.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

Explain the role of Gandhiji as a social reformer.

Q34.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Explain the role of Lal-Bal-Pal in opposition to Colonial rule.

Q35.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

The Salt Satyagraha drew worldwide attention and the nationwide Civil Disobedience with suitable examples.

Q36.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

The Salt Satyagraha attracted the attention of the world, and a nationalist movement for independence was initiated. Clarify the statement with suitable examples.

Q37.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Why had the historian Chandran Devanesan remarked that South Africa made Gandhiji a Mahatma? Explain.

Q38.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Explain the role of Moderate leaders of the Indian National Congress in opposition to the colonial rule.

Q39.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Explain the provisions of Irwin-Gandhi pact. Why was it criticised by the radical nationalists?

Q40.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

How did Gandhiji try to bring peace in various areas after the independence of India ? Explain.

Long answer (22)

Q41.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

Analyse the impact of national movement in India from 1915 to 1931 on the Indian masses.

Q42.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

"The Salt march was the movement that brought Gandhiji to the world attention." Analyse the statement.

Q43.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

Examine the role of Gandhiji in the Civil Disobedience Movement.

Q44.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

Explain the major events and movements that defined India's political condition between 1919 and 1922.

Q45.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

How did Gandhiji's Non-Cooperation Movement impact British administration and Indian political activism? Explain.

Q46.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

Explain the primary objectives of Gandhiji's 'Salt Satyagraha'. How did this Satyagraha mobilize public opinion against British rule? Explain.

Q47.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

''Gandhiji used the 'Salt Law' to mobilise a wider discontent against British rule.'' Support the statement with suitable arguments.

Q48.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

"Gandhiji's leadership in the 'Quit India Movement' involved organizing mass protests and civil disobedience." Justify the statement with suitable arguments.

Q49.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

"Gandhiji's approach to the 'Quit India Movement' involved fostering a sense of national unity among Indians." Justify the statement with suitable arguments.

Q50.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

(a) "There are many different kinds of sources from which we can reconstruct the political career of Gandhiji and the history of the Indian nationalist movement." Examine the statement.

Q51.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Examine Gandhiji's political role as a leader and social reformer.

Q52.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

(a) Examine the causes and events of Non-Cooperation Movement.

Q53.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Mahatma Gandhi's role was significant in the Non-Cooperation Movement. Justify the statement.

Q54.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

(a) "The Salt Satyagraha inspired masses to participate in the Civil Disobedience Movement." Justify the statement.

Q55.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Explain the reasons behind Gandhiji's decision to initiate the Salt Satyagraha and why did this movement become a significant event?

Q56.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

Examine the reasons and outcomes of the Salt Satyagraha.

Q57.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

(a) Examine Gandhi's contributions to India during 1930-1934.

Q58.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

Analyse the activities of Mahatma Gandhi in India during 1930-34.

Q59.CBSE 2023 · 8 marks

(a) Examine the significant role played by Gandhiji during 1930-34 in India.

Q60.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

Describe the tragic incident of Jallianwala Bagh massacre. What was its impact on the Indian National Movement?

Q61.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

Explain with suitable examples the statement that the Salt Satyagraha drew worldwide attention and the nationwide Civil Disobedience Movement was launched.

Q62.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

Describe the circumstances that led to the initiation of Non-Cooperation Movement by Gandhiji. Explain the significance of this movement.

Case-based (4)

Case study · CBSE 2025

Why the Salt Satyagraha? Why was salt the symbol of protest? This is what Mahatma Gandhi wrote: The volume of information being gained daily shows how wickedly the salt tax has been designed. In order to prevent the use of salt that has not paid the tax which is at times even fourteen times its value, the Government destroys the salt it cannot sell profitably. Thus it taxes the nation's vital necessity; it prevents the public from manufacturing it and destroys what nature manufactures without effort. No adjective is strong enough for characterizing this wicked dog-in-the-manger policy. From various sources, I hear tales of such wanton destruction of the nation's property in all parts of India. Maunds if not tons of salt are said to be destroyed on the Konkan coast. The same tale comes from Dandi. Wherever there is likelihood of natural salt being taken away by the people living in the neighbourhood of such areas for their personal use, salt officers are posted for the sole purpose of carrying on destruction. Thus valuable national property is destroyed at national expense and salt taken out of the mouths of the people. The salt monopoly is thus a fourfold curse. It deprives the people of a valuable easy village industry, involves wanton destruction of property that nature produces in abundance, the destruction itself means more national expenditure and fourthly, to crown this folly, an unheard of tax of more than 1,000 per cent is exacted from a starving people. This tax has remained so long because of the apathy of the general public. Now that it is sufficiently roused, the tax has to go. How soon it will be abolished depends upon the strength the people. The Collected Works of Mahatma Gandhi (CWMG), Vol. 49

Q63.CBSE 2025 · 4 marks

33.1 Why was salt law disliked by the masses?

Q64.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

31.1 Why was salt law disliked by the masses?

Case study · CBSE 2025

The volume of information being gained daily shows how wickedly the salt tax has been designed. In order to prevent the use of salt that has not paid the tax which is at times even fourteen times its value, the Government destroys the salt it cannot sell profitably. Thus it taxes the nation's vital necessity; it prevents the public from manufacturing it and destroys what nature manufactures without effort. No adjective is strong enough for characterizing this wicked dog-in-the-manger policy. From various sources, I hear tales of such wanton destruction of the nation's property in all parts of India. Maunds if not tons of salt are said to be destroyed on the Konkan coast. The same tale comes from Dandi. Wherever there is likelihood of natural salt being taken away by the people living in the neighbourhood of such areas for their personal use, salt officers are posted for the sole purpose of carrying on destruction. Thus valuable national property is destroyed at national expense and salt taken out of the mouths of the people. The salt monopoly is thus a fourfold curse. It deprives the people of a valuable easy village industry, involves wanton destruction of property that nature produces in abundance, the destruction itself means more national expenditure and fourthly, to crown this folly, an unheard of tax of more than 1,000 per cent is exacted from a starving people. This tax has remained so long because of the apathy of the general public. Now that it is sufficiently roused, the tax has to go. How soon it will be abolished depends upon the strength the people.

Q65.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Why was salt law disliked by the masses?

Case study · CBSE 2024

Charkha. Mahatma Gandhi was profoundly critical of the modern age in which machines enslaved humans and displaced labour. He saw the charkha as a symbol of a human society that would not glorify machines and technology. The spinning wheel, moreover, could provide the poor with supplementary income and make them self-reliant. What I object to, is the craze for machinery as such. The craze is for what they call labour-saving machinery. Men go on "saving labour", till thousands are without work and thrown on the open streets to die of starvation. I want to save time and labour, not for a fraction of mankind, but for all; I want the concentration of wealth, not in the hands of few, but in the hands of all. YOUNG INDIA, 13 NOVEMBER 1924. Khaddar does not seek to destroy all machinery but it does regulate its use and check its weedy growth. It uses machinery for the service of the poorest in their own cottages. The wheel is itself an exquisite piece of machinery. YOUNG INDIA, 17 MARCH 1927

Q66.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Why was Gandhiji critical of machines?

12Framing the Constitution: The Beginning of a New Era Notes & MCQs →

Multiple choice and assertion-reason (28)

Q1.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which one of the following pair is correctly matched? List-I (Name of Important Committees of Constituent Assembly) - List-II (Name of President)

  1. Flag Committee – H.C. Mookerjee
  2. Union Power Committee – Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru
  3. Rules of Procedure Committee – S. Varadachariar
  4. States Committee – J.B. Kripalani
Q2.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Identify the member of the Constituent Assembly with the help of the following information: He was the President of the Constituent Assembly. He was the first President of the Independent India.

  1. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
  2. Zakir Hussain
  3. V.V. Giri
  4. Rajendra Prasad
Q3.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Identify the member of the Constituent Assembly with the help of the following information: l He was the President of the Constituent Assembly. l He was the first President of the Independent India.

  1. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
  2. Zakir Hussain
  3. V.V. Giri
  4. Rajendra Prasad
Q4.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

How was the Constituent Assembly influenced by public opinion? Choose the correct option. I. People aired their views outside the Parliament House. II. People gave their reactions through the press. III. The members of Constituent Assembly used to discuss with the public. IV. Public expressed their views in the Constituent Assembly.

  1. I, III & IV
  2. II, III & IV
  3. I, IV & II
  4. I, II & III
Q5.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Identify the person from the given information: 1. He was the head of Advisory Committee of the Constituent Assembly. 2. He was against the separate electorate. 3. He was the first home minister of free India.

  1. Gobind Ballabh Pant
  2. R.V. Dhulekar
  3. Vallabhbhai Patel
  4. Pandit Nehru
Q6.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following pairs of Committees and their Presidents is correct regarding the Constituent Assembly?

  1. Advisory Committee – Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
  2. Flag Committee – N.G. Ranga
  3. Steering Committee – J.B. Kripalani
  4. Supreme Court Committee – Jawaharlal Nehru
Q7.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Who amongst the following women was a member of the Constituent Assembly from Bombay?

  1. Kamala Nehru
  2. Hansa Mehta
  3. Purnima Banerji
  4. Vijayalakshmi Pandit
Q8.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Who amongst the following was the female member from Orissa (Odisha) in the Constituent Assembly?

  1. Hansa Mehta
  2. Durgabai Deshmukh
  3. Malati Chowdhury
  4. Renuka Ray
Q9.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following pairs is correctly matched regarding the Constituent Assembly? Column I (Committees of Constituent Assembly): (A) Rules of Procedure Committee, (B) Union Power Committee, (C) Union Constitution Committee, (D) Provincial Constitution Committee. Column II (Presidents): – Jawaharlal Nehru, – B.N. Rao, – Bal Krishna Sharma, – Vallabhbhai Patel

  1. Rules of Procedure Committee – Jawaharlal Nehru
  2. Union Power Committee – B.N. Rao
  3. Union Constitution Committee – Bal Krishna Sharma
  4. Provincial Constitution Committee – Vallabhbhai Patel
Q10.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Which of the following pairs is correctly matched regarding the Constituent Assembly?

  1. Rules of Procedure Committee – Jawaharlal Nehru
  2. Union Power Committee – B.N. Rao
  3. Union Constitution Committee – Bal Krishna Sharma
  4. Provincial Constitution Committee – Vallabhbhai Patel
Q11.CBSE 2025 · 1 mark

Who amongst the following was the leader of the Advisory Committee of the Constituent Assembly?

  1. Sardar Patel
  2. Jawaharlal Nehru
  3. G.B. Pant
  4. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
Q12.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who among the following members of the Constituent Assembly made a strong plea for Hindi to be used as the language of constitution-making?

  1. R.V. Dhulekar
  2. Shankarrao Deo
  3. G. Durgabai
  4. N.G. Ranga
Q13.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Fill in the blank with the appropriate word from the given options: The legislature elected under the Government of India Act, 1935 operated within the framework of _________.

  1. Indian National Congress
  2. Muslim League
  3. Colonial Rule
  4. Constituent Assembly
Q14.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match the roles of the members of the Constituent Assembly given in Column II with their names in Column I: Column I (Members): 1. Rajendra Prasad, 2. S.N. Mukherjee, 3. Jawaharlal Nehru, 4. B.N. Rau. Column II (Role in the Constituent Assembly): (i) Chief Draughtsman, (ii) President of the Constituent Assembly, (iii) Constitutional Advisor, (iv) Passed the Objectives Resolution in the Constituent Assembly.

  1. 1-(i), 2-(iii), 3-(ii), 4-(iv)
  2. 1-(ii), 2-(iv), 3-(i), 4-(iii)
  3. 1-(iii), 2-(i), 3-(ii), 4-(iv)
  4. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iv), 4-(iii)
Q15.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Identify the primary reason behind the formation of the Constituent Assembly from the following options:

  1. To establish a legislative body for the governance of provinces
  2. To settle issues of Partition of India through coordination
  3. To negotiate the terms of India's independence with the British
  4. To draft a framework for the governance of independent India
Q16.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Match the roles of the members of the Constituent Assembly given in Column II with their names in Column I:

  1. 1-(i), 2-(iii), 3-(ii), 4-(iv)
  2. 1-(ii), 2-(iv), 3-(i), 4-(iii)
  3. 1-(iii), 2-(i), 3-(ii), 4-(iv)
  4. 1-(ii), 2-(i), 3-(iv), 4-(iii)
Q17.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who among the following introduced the 'Objectives Resolution' in the Constituent Assembly on 13th December, 1946?

  1. Vallabh Bhai Patel
  2. B.R. Ambedkar
  3. Jawaharlal Nehru
  4. Rajendra Prasad
Q18.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Which of the following were discussed in the Constituent Assembly for making a strong government at the Centre? Choose the correct option from the following. I. Planning for the well-being of the country. II. To establish strong administration at the state level. III. To mobilise available economic resources. IV. To defend the country against foreign aggression.

  1. I, II and IV
  2. I, II and III
  3. II, III and IV
  4. I, III and IV
Q19.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Select the significance of 26 November, 1949 in relation to the Constituent Assembly from the following options:

  1. Formation of the Drafting Committee
  2. Commencement of the Constituent Assembly
  3. Designing of the National Flag of India
  4. Signing of Constitution by the Constituent Assembly.
Q20.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Who among the following moved the resolution in the Constituent Assembly that the Indian National Flag be horizontal tricolour of saffron, white and dark green in equal proportions with a wheel in navy blue in the centre?

  1. Vallabhbhai Patel
  2. Rajendra Prasad
  3. B.R. Ambedkar
  4. Jawaharlal Nehru
Q21.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Identify the member of Constituent Assembly with the help of information given below: (i) He was a member of drafting committee of constitution. (ii) He was a lawyer. (iii) He gave crucial inputs in drafting of constitution. (iv) He belonged to Madras (Chennai).

  1. B.N. Rau
  2. K.M. Munshi
  3. Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar
  4. S.N. Mukherjee
Q22.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Fill in the blank: In the __________, the executives were made entirely responsible to the Provincial Legislature.

  1. Morley-Minto Reforms, 1909
  2. Government of India Act, 1919
  3. Government of India Act, 1935
  4. Indian Independence Act, 1947
Q23.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which one of the following languages was emphasized by Gandhiji for the status of national language?

  1. Hindi
  2. Hindustani
  3. Sanskrit
  4. English
Q24.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following demanded justice for women in the Constituent Assembly ?

  1. H.J. Khandekar
  2. T.A. Ramalingam Chettiar
  3. Hansa Mehta
  4. Jaipal Singh
Q25.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Select the correct pair from the following options:

  1. Mahatma Gandhi - President of Constituent Assembly
  2. Jawaharlal Nehru - Lawyer of Constituent Assembly
  3. Dr. Rajendra Prasad - Passed Objectives Resolution
  4. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar - Chairman of Drafting Committee
Q26.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following was the President of the Constituent Assembly?

  1. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
  2. Mahatma Gandhi
  3. Sardar Patel
  4. Dr. Rajendra Prasad
Q27.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following served as Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution?

  1. K.M. Munshi
  2. B.N. Rao
  3. B.R. Ambedkar
  4. S.N. Mukherjee
Q28.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Who among the following presented the Objectives Resolution in the Constituent Assembly?

  1. Jawahar Lal Nehru
  2. Mahatma Gandhi
  3. B.R. Ambedkar
  4. R.V. Dhulekar

Very short answer (2)

Q29.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

The Constituent Assembly expressed the aspirations of the social reformers of the nineteenth century. Explain this statement.

Q30.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

The role of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in drafting the Constitution of India was a prominent one. Explain the statement.

Short answer (21)

Q31.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Describe the views of Gandhiji on the national language of India.

Q32.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Describe the role of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in the Constituent Assembly.

Q33.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Explain the role of G.B. Pant on the united approach of India.

Q34.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

"During the debates in Constituent Assembly, B.R. Ambedkar told that he wanted a strong centre, much stronger than the centre we had created under the Act of 1935." Analyse the statement.

Q35.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

K. Santanam was in favour of giving greater powers to the provinces in the Constituent Assembly. Examine the statement.

Q36.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Analyse the ideas put forward by Bal Krishan Sharma on federalism in the Constituent Assembly.

Q37.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Explain the central debates in the Constituent Assembly regarding federalism.

Q38.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Explain the arguments in favour of granting more power to the Central government in the Constituent Assembly.

Q39.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

Explain how the Constituent Assembly sought to resolve the language issue.

Q40.CBSE 2025 · 3 marks

How did the 'Objectives Resolution' of the Constituent Assembly reflect the vision of India as an 'Independent Sovereign Republic'. Explain.

Q41.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain the attributes of a loyal citizen as defined by G.B. Pant.

Q42.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

Explain the three lists of subjects provided by the Draft Constitution.

Q43.CBSE 2024 · 3 marks

"The draft constitution provided for three lists of subjects on the issue of federalism." Explain the statement with examples.

Q44.CBSE 2023 · 3 marks

How did G.B. Pant show his concern in the Constituent Assembly for making India a unified nation? Explain.

Q45.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Describe the views of Gandhiji on the question of National Language.

Q46.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

Analyse the different arguments made in favour of the strong Centre in the Constituent Assembly of India.

Q47.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Explain the statement that the Objective put forward in the Constituent Assembly was a historic proposal.

Q48.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

Examine the different arguments on federalism made in the Constituent Assembly of India.

Q49.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Describe the aspirations of the nineteenth century social reformers expressed in the Constituent Assembly.

Q50.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Describe the role of B.R. Ambedkar in highlighting the approach of Constitutional Assembly and United Centre in the Constituent Assembly.

Q51.CBSE 2022 · 3 marks

Describe the three lists of Federalism provided by the Drafting Committee in the Constituent Assembly.

Long answer (4)

Q52.CBSE 2025 · 8 marks

Describe the views of the members of the Constituent Assembly on division of powers between the Centre and the States.

Q53.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Why did some members of Constituent Assembly argue for a strong Centre? Explain.

Q54.CBSE 2024 · 8 marks

Explain the views of the members of the Constituent Assembly on federalism.

Q55.CBSE 2022 · 6 marks

Analyse the views of B.R. Ambedkar, Gopalaswami Ayyangar and Balakrishna Sharma on the need for a powerful and unified centre for Indian democracy.

Case-based (11)

Case study · CBSE 2024

"There cannot be any divided loyalty" Govind Ballabh Pant emphasised to become loyal citizens. For the success of democracy one must train himself in the art of self-discipline. In democracies one should care less for himself and more for others. All loyalties must exclusively be centred round the State. If in a democracy, you create rival loyalties, or you create a system in which any individual or group, instead of suppressing his extravagance, cares nought for larger or other interests, then democracy is doomed.

Q56.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

(33.1) How has Pant described the key to the success of democracy?

Q57.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

How has Pant described the key to the success of democracy?

Q58.CBSE 2024 · 4 marks

(32.1) How has Pant described the key to the success of democracy?

Case study · CBSE 2024

We say that it is our firm and solemn resolve to have an independent sovereign republic. India is bound to be sovereign, it is bound to be independent and it is bound to be a republic … Now, some friends have raised the question: "Why have you not put in the word 'democratic' here?" Well, I told them that it is conceivable, of course, that a republic may not be democratic but the whole of our past is witness to this fact that we stand for democratic institutions. Obviously we are aiming at democracy and nothing less than a democracy. What form of democracy, what shape it might take is another matter. The democracies of the present day, many of them in Europe and elsewhere, have played a great part in the world's progress. Yet it may be doubtful if those democracies may not have to change their shape somewhat before long if they have to remain completely democratic. We are not going just to copy, I hope, a certain democratic procedure or an institution of a so-called democratic country. We may improve upon it. In any event whatever system of government we may establish here must fit in with the temper of our people and be acceptable to them. We stand for democracy. It will be for this House to determine what shape to give to that democracy, the fullest democracy, I hope. The House will notice that in this Resolution, although we have not used the word "democratic" because we thought it is obvious that the word "republic" contains that word and we did not want to use unnecessary words and redundant words, but we have done something much more than using the word. We have given the content of democracy in this Resolution and not only the content of democracy but the content, if I may say so, of economic democracy in this Resolution. Source: CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY DEBATES (CAD), VOL. I

Q59.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

Mention the 'firm and solemn resolve' expressed in the passage.

Q60.CBSE 2024 · 1 mark

(32.1) Mention the 'firm and solemn resolve' expressed in the passage.

Case study · CBSE 2023

Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel said: It is no use saying that we ask for separate electorates, because it is good for us. We have heard it long enough. We have heard it for years, and as me one free country where there are separate electorates ? If so, I shall be prepared to accept it. But in this unfortunate country if this separate electorate is going to be persisted in, even after the division of the country, woe betide the country; it is not worth living in. Therefore, I say, it is not for my good alone, it is for your own good that I say it, forget the have left the mischief behind. We do not want to perpetuate that mischief. (Hear, hear). When the British introduced this element they had not expected that they will have to go so soon. They wanted it for their easy administration. That is all right. But they have left the legacy behind. Are we to get out of it or not ?

Q61.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Mention the meaning of separate electorates.

Case study · CBSE 2023

This is what Jawaharlal Nehru said in his famous speech of 13 December, 1946: My mind goes back to the various Constituent Assemblies that have gone before and of what took place at the making of the great American nation when the fathers of that nation met and fashioned out a Constitution which has stood the test of so many years, more than a century and a half, and of the great nation which has resulted, which has been built up on the basis of that Constitution. My mind goes back to that mighty revolution which took place also over 150 years ago and to that Constituent Assembly that met in that gracious and lovely city of Paris which has fought so many battles for freedom, to the difficulties that the Constituent Assembly had and to how the King and other authorities came in its way, and still it continued. The House will remember that when these difficulties came and even the room for a meeting was denied to the then Constituent Assembly, they betook themselves to an open tennis court and met there and took the oath, which is called the Oath of the Tennis Court, that they continued meeting in spite of Kings, in spite of the others, and did not disperse till they had finished the task they had undertaken. Well, I trust that it is in the solemn spirit that we too are meeting here and that we, too, whether we meet in this chamber or other chambers, or in the fields or in the market-place, will go on meeting and continue our work till we have finished it.

Q62.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which was the revolution discussed by Nehru in the passage?

Case study · CBSE 2023

My mind goes back to the various Constituent Assemblies that have gone before and of what took place at the making of the great American nation when the fathers of that nation met and fashioned out a Constitution which has stood the test of so many years, more than a century and a half, and of the great nation which has resulted, which has been built up on the basis of that Constitution. My mind goes back to that mighty revolution which took place also over 150 years ago and to that Constituent Assembly that met in that gracious and lovely city of Paris which has fought so many battles for freedom, to the difficulties that the Constituent Assembly had and to how the King and other authorities came in its way, and still it continued. The House will remember that when these difficulties came and even the room for a meeting was denied to the then Constituent Assembly, they betook themselves to an open tennis court and met there and took the oath, which is called the Oath of the Tennis Court, that they continued meeting in spite of Kings, in spite of the others, and did not disperse till they had finished the task they had undertaken. Well, I trust that it is in the solemn spirit that we too are meeting here and that we, too, whether we meet in this chamber or other chambers, or in the fields or in the market-place, will go on meeting and continue our work till we have finished it.

Q63.CBSE 2023 · 1 mark

Which was the revolution discussed by Nehru in the passage?

Case study · CBSE 2022

We have never asked for privileges. What we have asked for is social justice, economic justice, and political justice. We have asked for that equality which alone can be the basis of mutual respect and understanding, without which real cooperation is not possible between man and woman.

Q64.CBSE 2022 · 1 mark

How can women be empowered economically?

Case study · CBSE 2022

We have never asked for privileges Hansa Mehta of Bombay demanded justice for women, not reserved seats, or separate electorates. We have never asked for privileges. What we have asked for is social justice, economic justice, and political justice. We have asked for that equality which alone can be the basis of mutual respect and understanding, without which real cooperation is not possible between man and woman.

Q65.CBSE 2022 · 4 marks

How can women be empowered economically?

Case study · CBSE 2022

We are not going just to copy This is what Jawahar Lal Nehru said in his famous speech of 13 December, 1946: We say that it is our firm and solemn resolve to have an independent sovereign republic. India is bound to be sovereign, it is bound to be independent and it is bound to be a republic... Now, some friends have raised the question: "Why have you not put in the word 'democratic' here?" Well, I told them that it is conceivable, of course, that a republic may not be democratic but the whole of our past is witness to this fact that we stand for democratic institutions. Obviously we are aiming at democracy and nothing less than a democracy. What form of democracy, what shape it might take is another matter. The democracies of the present day, many of them in Europe and elsewhere, have played a great part in the world's progress. Yet it may be doubtful if those democracies may not have to change their shape somewhat before long if they have to remain completely democratic. We are not going just to copy, I hope, a certain democratic procedure or an institution of a so-called democratic country. We may improve upon it. In any event whatever system of government we may establish here must fit in with the temper of our people and be acceptable to them. We stand for democracy. It will be for this House to determine what shape to give to that democracy, the fullest democracy.

Q66.CBSE 2022 · 1 mark

Define the term sovereignty.

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