CBSE Class 10 · Board exam 2025 (session 2024-25)

CBSE Class 10 Social Science: 2025 board paper, set 32/1/1

The question paper set in the CBSE Class 10 board exam of 2025, as printed: 37 questions for 80 marks, in sections, with each OR choice shown as an alternative. Try each question first, then open our solution.

Every question here has our step-by-step solution, split into the steps that earn marks. Each one was checked by an independent re-solve from the question paper.

Source: official question paper from cbse.gov.in: https://www.cbse.gov.in/cbsenew/question-paper/2025/X/087_Social_Science.zip (a zip; this paper is the file 32-1-1_Social Science.pdf). Questions are transcribed from that PDF; figures are described in words, so check the official paper for them.

Practise a paper like this, timedMy board paper sets a full paper in this exact format from real board questions, with a timer.Get your written answers markedThe Answer Coach marks a photo of your handwritten answer step by step, like the examiner.

How the paper is set

Section	Questions	What it has
A	1-20	MCQ 1-18, assertion-reason/statement-based 19-20
B	21-24	Very short answer, not exceeding 40 words
C	25-29	Short answer, not exceeding 60 words
D	30-33	Long answer, not exceeding 120 words; internal choice (a)/(b)
E	34-36	Case/source-based, three sub-questions each
F	37	Map skill-based: 37(a) History 2 marks, 37(b) Geography 3 marks

Instructions in brief: All 37 questions are compulsory. Internal choice (OR) is given only in Q21, Q28, Q30, Q31, Q32, Q33; Visually Impaired candidates attempt separate questions in lieu of Q17, 37(a) and 37(b).

Section A

MCQ 1-18, assertion-reason/statement-based 19-20

Q1 · 1 mark · MCQThe Rise of Nationalism in Europe
Which one of the following regions became a part of unified Italy in 1866 ?
1. (A)Sardinia-Piedmont
2. (B)Venetia
3. (C)Sicily
4. (D)Papal State
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Venetia was taken from Austria and joined Italy in 1866 after the Austro-Prussian War. Sardinia-Piedmont was the core of unification, Sicily joined in 1860, and the Papal State in 1870.
  1 mark
Answer: (B) Venetia
Where the marks are
- Identifies Venetia (1 mark)
Q2 · 1 mark · MCQThe Making of a Global World
Read the following reasons of migration of people from Europe to America till the $1 9^{t h}$ century and choose the correct option :
I. Poverty and hunger
II. Slaves for sale
III. Wide spread of diseases
IV. Religious conflicts and persecution
1. (A)Only I, II and III are correct.
2. (B)Only II, III and IV are correct.
3. (C)Only I, III and IV are correct.
4. (D)Only I, II and IV are correct.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Europeans migrated to America because of poverty and hunger, diseases and religious persecution. Slaves for sale was not a reason for European migration, as slaves were brought from Africa.
  1 mark
Answer: (C) Only I, III and IV are correct
Where the marks are
- Selects I, III and IV (1 mark)
Q3 · 1 mark · MCQThe Making of a Global World
The author of 'Book of Marvels' is :
1. (A)Marco Polo
2. (B)Columbus
3. (C)Vasco da Gama
4. (D)Alfred Crosby
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. The 'Book of Marvels' is linked to Marco Polo, whose travels to China were described in it. Strictly, the book is 'The Travels of Marco Polo', and the scheme notes the option is flawed.
  1 mark
Answer: (A) Marco Polo (the scheme gives 1 mark to all)
Where the marks are
- Marco Polo, or the mark is awarded to all (1 mark)
Q4 · 1 mark · MCQCompetency-basedPrint Culture and the Modern World
Assume you are doing research on $1 5^{t h}$ century print culture. Which of the following would be the most significant advantage for your research ?
1. (A)Easier access to rare manuscripts
2. (B)Reduced need for libraries
3. (C)Increase in the ability to copy text by hand
4. (D)Increased speed and accuracy of print
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Printing let texts be reproduced quickly and uniformly, with far fewer copying errors than hand copying. This is the main advantage for a researcher on 15th-century print culture, so the answer is option (D).
  1 mark
Answer: (D) Increased speed and accuracy of print
Where the marks are
- Chooses (D) (1 mark)
Q5 · 1 mark · MCQForest and Wildlife Resources
Arrange the following categories of forests in India from the largest to the smallest in terms of area and choose the correct option :
I. Reserved
II. Protected
III. Unclassed
1. (A)III, II, I
2. (B)I, II, III
3. (C)II, III, I
4. (D)III, I, II
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. By area, reserved forests are the largest, then protected forests, then unclassed forests. The order is I, II, III, which is option (B).
  1 mark
Answer: (B) I, II, III
Where the marks are
- Gives the order reserved > protected > unclassed (1 mark)
Q6 · 1 mark · MCQForest and Wildlife Resources
'Sariska Tiger Reserve' is located in which one of the following states ?
1. (A)Madhya Pradesh
2. (B)Rajasthan
3. (C)Uttar Pradesh
4. (D)Maharashtra
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Sariska Tiger Reserve is in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, so the answer is option (B).
  1 mark
Answer: (B) Rajasthan
Where the marks are
- Chooses Rajasthan (1 mark)
Q7 · 1 mark · MCQWater Resources
Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option :
Column I (Dam) Column II (River)
a. Hirakud i. Chambal
b. Gandhi Sagar ii. Krishna
c. Nagarjuna Sagar iii. Kaveri
d. Mettur iv. Mahanadi
1. (A)a-iv, b-i, c-iii, d-ii
2. (B)a-i, b-ii, c-iv, d-iii
3. (C)a-iv, b-i, c-ii, d-iii
4. (D)a-i, b-ii, c-iii, d-iv
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Hirakud is on the Mahanadi, Gandhi Sagar on the Chambal, Nagarjuna Sagar on the Krishna, and Mettur on the Kaveri. This gives a-iv, b-i, c-ii, d-iii.
  1 mark
Answer: (C) a-iv, b-i, c-ii, d-iii
Where the marks are
- Correct matching (1 mark)
Q8 · 1 mark · MCQWater Resources
Choose the correct option regarding major states involved in the Krishna – Godavari issue :
1. (A)Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu
2. (B)Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh
3. (C)Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh
4. (D)Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. The Krishna–Godavari river water dispute involves Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, so the answer is option (B).
  1 mark
Answer: (B) Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh
Where the marks are
- Chooses (B) (1 mark)
Q9 · 1 mark · MCQCompetency-basedAgriculture
Imagine you are travelling from Delhi to Chandigarh to attend a wedding, by road in January. Which of the following crops will you notice prominently in the fields during the journey ?
1. (A)Paddy
2. (B)Maize
3. (C)Wheat
4. (D)Jowar
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Wheat is a rabi crop, sown in winter and growing in January in Haryana and Punjab. Paddy, maize and jowar are kharif crops.
  1 mark
Answer: (C) Wheat
Where the marks are
- Wheat as the rabi crop (1 mark)
Q10 · 1 mark · Assertion-reasonCompetency-basedMinerals and Energy Resources
Two statements are given below. They are Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read both the statements carefully and choose the correct option :
Assertion (A): Minerals are an indispensable part of our lives.
Reason (R): All living things need minerals.
1. (A)Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
2. (B)Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
3. (C)(A) is true, but (R) is false.
4. (D)(A) is false, but (R) is true.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Both statements are true. Minerals are indispensable because all living things need them, so R correctly explains A. The answer is option (A).
  1 mark
Answer: (A) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
Where the marks are
- Identifies both as true with R explaining A (1 mark)
Q11 · 1 mark · MCQMinerals and Energy Resources
Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option :
Column I (Minerals) Column II (Major Mines)
a. Iron ore i. Gaya
b. Mica ii. Singrauli
c. Bauxite iii. Chandrapur
d. Coal iv. Maikala
1. (A)a-iii, b-i, c-iv, d-ii
2. (B)a-iii, b-i, c-ii, d-iv
3. (C)a-ii, b-iii, c-i, d-iv
4. (D)a-ii, b-iii, c-iv, d-i
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Iron ore is mined at Chandrapur, mica at Gaya, bauxite at Maikala and coal at Singrauli. This gives a-iii, b-i, c-iv, d-ii.
  1 mark
Answer: (A) a-iii, b-i, c-iv, d-ii
Where the marks are
- Correct matching (1 mark)
Q12 · 1 mark · MCQPower-sharing
Belgium solved its problem of majoritarianism by strengthening which of the following types of government ?
1. (A)Unitary
2. (B)Presidential
3. (C)Federal
4. (D)Parliamentary
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Belgium shared power between communities and regions by making its government more federal, so the answer is option (C).
  1 mark
Answer: (C) Federal
Where the marks are
- Chooses Federal (1 mark)
Q13 · 1 mark · MCQFederalism
Choose the correctly matched pair from the following :
Country System
Canada Unitary
Bolivia Federal
Australia Unitary
Spain Federal
1. (A)Canada – Unitary
2. (B)Bolivia – Federal
3. (C)Australia – Unitary
4. (D)Spain – Federal
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Canada, Bolivia and Australia are mismatched in the table: Canada and Australia are federal, and Bolivia has been described as unitary. Spain is a federation, so option (D) is the correct pair.
  1 mark
Answer: (D) Spain – Federal
Where the marks are
- Identifies Spain – Federal (1 mark)
Q14 · 1 mark · MCQPolitical Parties
Which of the following are the main components of a political party ? Choose the correct option :
I. Leaders
II. Active members
III. Followers
IV. Pressure groups
1. (A)Only I, II and III are correct.
2. (B)Only II, III and IV are correct.
3. (C)Only I, III and IV are correct.
4. (D)Only I, II and IV are correct.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. A political party has three components: leaders, active members and followers. Pressure groups are separate bodies, not part of a party. The answer is option (A).
  1 mark
Answer: (A) Only I, II and III are correct
Where the marks are
- Selects leaders, active members and followers (1 mark)
Q15 · 1 mark · MCQCompetency-basedDevelopment
Study the following table related to 'World Human Development Index' and answer the questions given below :
S. No. Country HDI Rank in the world
1. India 130
2. Myanmar 148
3. Nepal 149
4. Pakistan 150
Amongst the given countries, which one of the following countries has the highest rank in 'Human Development Index' ?
1. (A)Pakistan
2. (B)India
3. (C)Nepal
4. (D)Myanmar
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. A smaller rank number means a better position. India has rank 130, the lowest number in the table, so India ranks highest. The answer is option (B).
  1 mark
Answer: (B) India
Where the marks are
- Picks the lowest rank number, India at 130 (1 mark)
Q16 · 1 mark · MCQCompetency-basedSectors of the Indian Economy
'X' lives in a town. He cultivates flowers along with animal husbandry. The work of 'X' will fall under which sector of the economy ?
1. (A)Primary
2. (B)Secondary
3. (C)Tertiary
4. (D)Quaternary
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Growing flowers and keeping animals both use natural resources directly, so this is the primary sector. The answer is option (A).
  1 mark
Answer: (A) Primary
Where the marks are
- Identifies the primary sector (1 mark)
Q17 · 1 mark · MCQCompetency-basedSectors of the Indian Economy
Look at the given picture and answer the question that follow :
The work being done in the picture falls under which sector of the economy ?
1. (A)Primary
2. (B)Quaternary
3. (C)Secondary
4. (D)Tertiary
1. VI
  Note: The following question is for the Visually Impaired Candidates only, in lieu of Q. No. 17. The work of which of the following comes in the secondary sector of the economy ?
  (A)Bee-keeper
  (B)Moneylender
  (C)Basket weaver
  (D)Fisherman
  1 mark
Figure in the paper: A photograph of several women workers seated and standing at long tables in a workshop, handling and folding large stacks of dark/black cloth. Some workers wear sarees and salwar kameez; the setting appears to be a garment or cloth-processing unit. See it in the official paper.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. The picture shows workers folding and processing cloth in a garment unit. This turns a raw material (fabric) into a finished product, so it is manufacturing, which is the secondary sector. Hence the answer is the option 'Secondary'. The scheme's key reads (D) Tertiary, and this note explains why that is doubtful.
  1 mark
2. For the visually impaired version, a basket weaver makes baskets from cane or bamboo. This is manufacturing, so it is secondary, option (C). A bee-keeper and a fisherman are primary, and a moneylender is tertiary.
Answer: Option (C) Secondary; VI: (C) Basket weaver
Where the marks are
- Identifies the work as manufacturing and so the secondary sector (1 mark)
Open Q17 on its own page
Q18 · 1 mark · MCQMoney and Credit
Why does it become difficult for farmers in rural areas to take loans from government banks ? Read the following reasons and choose the most appropriate option :
I. Lack of collateral
II. Complicated procedure
III. Higher cost of borrowing
IV. Lack of awareness
1. (A)Only I, II and III are correct.
2. (B)Only II, III and IV are correct.
3. (C)Only I, II and IV are correct.
4. (D)Only I, III and IV are correct.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Rural farmers often lack collateral, find the procedure complicated and lack awareness. Government banks charge a lower cost of borrowing, not a higher one, so III is wrong. The answer is option (C).
  1 mark
Answer: (C) Only I, II and IV are correct
Where the marks are
- Selects I, II and IV and rejects III (1 mark)
Q19 · 1 mark · MCQMoney and Credit
Which of the following groups in urban India depend on informal sources to meet their credit needs ?
1. (A)Poor households
2. (B)Households with few assets
3. (C)Both poor households and households with few assets
4. (D)Both well-off households and households with few assets
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. In urban India, poor households and households with few assets depend on informal sources of credit. Well-off households mostly borrow from formal sources. The answer is option (C).
  1 mark
Answer: (C) Both poor households and households with few assets
Where the marks are
- Chooses (C) (1 mark)
Q20 · 1 mark · Assertion-reasonCompetency-basedGlobalisation and the Indian Economy
Two statements I and II are given below. Read both the statements carefully and choose the correct option :
Statement I: Rapid improvement in technology has been one major factor to stimulate the globalisation process.
Statement II: This has made much faster delivery of goods across long distances possible at lower costs.
1. (A)Both statements I and II are correct and statement II is the correct explanation of statement I.
2. (B)Both statements I and II are correct, but statement II is not the correct explanation of statement I.
3. (C)Statement I is correct, but statement II is incorrect.
4. (D)Statement I is incorrect, but statement II is correct.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Both statements are correct. Better technology, especially in transport, allows faster and cheaper delivery of goods over long distances. This explains why technology stimulated globalisation, so the answer is option (A).
  1 mark
Answer: (A) Both statements I and II are correct and statement II is the correct explanation of statement I
Where the marks are
- Both statements correct with II explaining I (1 mark)

Column I (Dam)	Column II (River)
a. Hirakud	i. Chambal
b. Gandhi Sagar	ii. Krishna
c. Nagarjuna Sagar	iii. Kaveri
d. Mettur	iv. Mahanadi

Column I (Minerals)	Column II (Major Mines)
a. Iron ore	i. Gaya
b. Mica	ii. Singrauli
c. Bauxite	iii. Chandrapur
d. Coal	iv. Maikala

Country	System
Canada	Unitary
Bolivia	Federal
Australia	Unitary
Spain	Federal

S. No.	Country	HDI Rank in the world
1.	India	130
2.	Myanmar	148
3.	Nepal	149
4.	Pakistan	150

Section B

Very short answer, not exceeding 40 words

Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q21(a) · 2 marks · Very short answerNationalism in India
Explain the role of anti-colonial movement in the rise of 'modern nationalism' in India.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. People began to discover their unity while struggling against colonialism. The shared experience of oppression under colonial rule bound different groups together.
  1 mark
2. Each group felt colonialism differently and had its own idea of freedom. Movements such as the Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience and Quit India Movements brought them together under a common cause and built modern nationalism.
  1 mark
Answer: The anti-colonial struggle created a shared bond among diverse groups and so gave rise to modern nationalism.
Where the marks are
- Unity discovered through the struggle against colonialism (1 mark)
- The shared sense of oppression, and movements such as Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience and Quit India (1 mark)
Open Q21(a) on its own page
OR
Q21(b) · 2 marks · Very short answerNationalism in India
Why did Gandhiji say 'Satyagraha is pure soul-force' ? Explain by giving two arguments.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. For Gandhiji, truth is the very substance of the soul, which is why this force is called Satyagraha. The soul is full of knowledge, the flame of love burns in it, and non-violence is the supreme dharma.
  1 mark
2. Satyagraha is not physical force. A satyagrahi does not inflict pain on the opponent or seek his destruction, and uses it with no ill-will.
  1 mark
Answer: Satyagraha rests on truth, love and non-violence, not on physical force, so it is pure soul-force.
Where the marks are
- Truth is the substance of the soul, with love and non-violence (1 mark)
- Not physical force; no ill-will or harm to the adversary (1 mark)
Open Q21(b) on its own page
Q22 · 2 marks · Very short answerResources and Development
Explain any two problems of the 'global ecology' arising due to indiscriminate use of resources.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Indiscriminate use of resources has caused global warming, which results from over-use of fossil fuels and leads to rising temperatures and climate change.
  1 mark
2. It has also depleted the ozone layer, and it has increased environmental pollution and land degradation.
  1 mark
Answer: Global warming and ozone layer depletion (also pollution and land degradation).
Where the marks are
- One problem explained, e.g. global warming (1 mark)
- A second problem explained, e.g. ozone depletion, pollution or land degradation (1 mark)
Open Q22 on its own page
Q23 · 2 marks · Very short answerGender, Religion and Caste
Suggest any two measures to remove gender inequality.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Increase literacy and invest in the education of girls, so that women become independent and aware of their rights.
  1 mark
2. Increase women's political representation, for example through reservation, and give women legal protection and equal opportunity in employment.
  1 mark
Answer: Girls' education and greater political representation, with legal protection at work.
Where the marks are
- First measure suggested (1 mark)
- Second measure suggested (1 mark)
Open Q23 on its own page
Q24 · 2 marks · Very short answerGlobalisation and the Indian Economy
How did the process of liberalisation initiated in India in the 1990s, promote globalisation ? Explain.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. From 1991, liberalisation removed government barriers and restrictions on trade and foreign investment. Indian producers had to compete with producers around the world.
  1 mark
2. MNCs could set up factories and offices in India, and SEZs were set up. Imports and exports became easier, so foreign trade grew and India integrated with the world economy.
  1 mark
Answer: Removal of trade and investment barriers allowed MNCs and foreign trade to grow, which integrated India with the global economy.
Where the marks are
- Removal of barriers and competition with global producers (1 mark)
- MNCs, SEZs, easier trade and integration with the world economy (1 mark)
Open Q24 on its own page

Section C

Short answer, not exceeding 60 words

Q25 · 3 marks · Short answerNationalism in India
"Tribal peasants interpreted the message of Mahatma Gandhi and the idea of 'Swaraj' in yet another way." Explain the statement in the context of Non-Cooperation Movement.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. The movement spread to tribal areas, but swaraj meant something different to the tribals. In the Gudem Hills of Andhra Pradesh a militant guerrilla movement began in the early 1920s, which the Congress could not approve.
  1 mark
2. The colonial government had closed forests, so people could not graze cattle or collect fuelwood and fruits. They felt their traditional rights were being denied, and they revolted when forced to give begar for road building.
  1 mark
3. Their leader Alluri Sitaram Raju was inspired by Non-Cooperation and asked people to wear khadi and give up drinking, but he said India could be freed only by force. The rebels attacked police stations and fought guerrilla war. Raju was executed in 1924 and became a folk hero.
  1 mark
Answer: Tribals linked swaraj to freedom to enter forests and live by their traditional rights, and they fought militantly, as in the Gudem Hills under Alluri Sitaram Raju.
Where the marks are
- Swaraj had a different meaning for tribals; Gudem Hills guerrilla movement (1 mark)
- Forest restrictions, loss of rights and begar (1 mark)
- Raju's leadership, belief in force, and his execution in 1924 (1 mark)
Open Q25 on its own page
Q26 · 3 marks · Short answerCompetency-basedAgriculture
Read the story of Rinjha and answer the question that follows :
Story of Rinjha
Rinjha lived with her family in a small village at the outskirts of Diphu in Assam. She enjoys watching her family members clearing, slashing and burning a patch of land for cultivation. She often helps them in irrigating the fields with water running through a bamboo canal from the nearby spring. She loves the surroundings and wants to stay here as long as she can, but this little girl has no idea about the declining fertility of the soil and her family's search for a fresh patch of land in the next season.
What type of farming is Rinjha's family doing ? Describe any two of its characteristics. (1+2=3)
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Rinjha's family practises primitive subsistence farming, also called slash and burn or shifting cultivation.
  1 mark
2. It is done on small patches of land with primitive tools such as the hoe, dao and digging sticks, using family or community labour.
  1 mark
3. It depends on the monsoon, the natural fertility of the soil and other environmental conditions. When fertility declines, the farmers shift to a fresh patch.
  1 mark
Answer: Primitive subsistence farming (slash and burn): small plots, primitive tools and family labour, dependent on monsoon and natural soil fertility.
Where the marks are
- Type identified: primitive subsistence farming (1 mark)
- First characteristic (1 mark)
- Second characteristic (1 mark)
Open Q26 on its own page
Q27 · 3 marks · Short answerOutcomes of Democracy
"That democratic system of government is considered good in which maximum number of citizens are made stakeholders in political power." Explain the statement with suitable arguments.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. In a democracy people are the source of all political power and rule themselves through institutions of self-government. It ensures their participation, representation and decision-making.
  1 mark
2. It encourages public debate, and public opinion is used in making policy. People can hold the government accountable, and the system gives scope for transparency.
  1 mark
3. It reduces conflicts between social groups. Elected governments have legitimacy, which keeps the political order stable.
  1 mark
Answer: A democracy is good when many citizens share in power, because this gives participation, accountability, legitimacy and stability.
Where the marks are
- People as the source of power and participation (1 mark)
- Public debate and accountability (1 mark)
- Reduced conflict and legitimacy (1 mark)
Open Q27 on its own page
Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q28(a) · 3 marks · Short answerPolitical Parties
Explain the importance of political parties in democracy.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Political parties reflect the basic political divisions in society and contest elections. They put forward policies and programmes from which voters choose.
  1 mark
2. They play a decisive role in making laws, and they form and run governments.
  1 mark
3. They act as the opposition by criticising wrong policies, shape public opinion, and give people access to government machinery and welfare schemes.
  1 mark
Answer: Parties contest elections, make policies and laws, form governments, act as the opposition and shape public opinion.
Where the marks are
- Contest elections and offer policies (1 mark)
- Make laws and form the government (1 mark)
- Opposition role, public opinion and access to schemes (1 mark)
Open Q28(a) on its own page
OR
Q28(b) · 3 marks · Short answerPolitical Parties
Why did India adopt the multiparty system ? Explain with suitable arguments.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. A country cannot simply choose its party system; each country develops one shaped by its own circumstances. India's social diversity led it to adopt a multiparty system.
  1 mark
2. India is geographically vast and diverse, so two or three parties cannot absorb this diversity.
  1 mark
3. A multiparty system lets a variety of interests and opinions get political representation.
  1 mark
Answer: India's social and geographical diversity needs many parties so that varied interests are represented.
Where the marks are
- The party system depends on the country's circumstances; social diversity (1 mark)
- Geographical diversity is too large for two or three parties (1 mark)
- Representation of varied interests (1 mark)
Open Q28(b) on its own page
Q29 · 3 marks · Short answerSectors of the Indian Economy
Explain the difference between public and private sector of Indian economy with example.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. In the public sector the government owns most assets and provides services. In the private sector, private individuals or companies own the assets and deliver the services.
  1 mark
2. Examples: Railways and the Post Office are public. TISCO and Reliance Industries are private.
  1 mark
3. The public sector aims at public welfare, not only profit, and raises funds through taxes. The private sector is guided by profit and raises its own funds.
  1 mark
Answer: The public sector is government-owned and welfare-oriented (e.g. Railways); the private sector is privately owned and profit-driven (e.g. TISCO, Reliance).
Where the marks are
- Difference in ownership (1 mark)
- Examples of each sector (1 mark)
- Difference in motive or funds (1 mark)
Open Q29 on its own page

Section D

Long answer, not exceeding 120 words; internal choice (a)/(b)

Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q30(a) · 5 marks · Long answerThe Rise of Nationalism in Europe
Analyse the significance of the 'Napoleonic Code' in making the administrative system rational and efficient.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. The Civil Code of 1804 (Napoleonic Code) did away with all privileges based on birth.
  1 mark
2. It established equality before the law and secured the right to property.
  1 mark
3. It simplified administrative divisions. It abolished the feudal system and freed peasants from serfdom and manorial dues.
  1 mark
4. Guild restrictions in towns were removed, and transport and communication were improved.
  1 mark
5. Uniform laws, standard weights and measures, and a common currency helped businessmen move goods and capital between regions. Peasants, artisans and workers enjoyed new freedom.
  1 mark
Answer: The Napoleonic Code made administration rational and efficient through equality before the law, property rights, simpler administration, abolition of feudal dues and guild restrictions, and uniform laws, weights, measures and currency.
Where the marks are
- Ended birth-based privileges (1 mark)
- Equality before law and property rights (1 mark)
- Simplified administration and abolished feudalism (1 mark)
- Removed guild restrictions and improved transport (1 mark)
- Uniform weights, measures and currency aiding trade (1 mark)
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OR
Q30(b) · 5 marks · Long answerThe Rise of Nationalism in Europe
How was liberalism allied to national unity in Europe in the early decades of the $1 9^{t h}$ century ? Analyse.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. For the new middle classes, liberalism meant freedom for the individual and equality of all before the law.
  1 mark
2. Politically it stood for government by consent.
  1 mark
3. Since the French Revolution it stood for the end of autocracy and clerical privileges, and for a constitution and representative government through parliament.
  1 mark
4. Economically it meant free markets and the abolition of state restrictions on the movement of goods and capital.
  1 mark
5. The Zollverein, a customs union formed in 1834 under Prussia, abolished tariff barriers and promoted economic growth and national unity.
  1 mark
Answer: Liberal ideas of individual freedom, equality, constitutional government and free markets, as in the Zollverein, strengthened nationalism and unity.
Where the marks are
- Individual freedom and equality before law (1 mark)
- Government by consent (1 mark)
- Constitution and representative government (1 mark)
- Economic liberalism: free markets (1 mark)
- Zollverein and economic unity (1 mark)
Open Q30(b) on its own page
Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q31(a) · 5 marks · Long answerManufacturing Industries
"Manufacturing industries are considered the backbone of the economic development of a country." Justify the statement.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. A country's economic strength is measured by the development of its manufacturing industries.
  1 mark
2. Manufacturing helps modernise agriculture.
  1 mark
3. It provides jobs in the secondary and tertiary sectors, and industrial development is needed to remove unemployment and poverty.
  1 mark
4. Export of manufactured goods expands trade and brings foreign exchange.
  1 mark
5. Countries that turn raw materials into finished goods of higher value become prosperous. Industries in tribal and backward areas reduce regional disparities.
  1 mark
Answer: Manufacturing drives growth through jobs, poverty removal, exports and foreign exchange, value addition and reduced regional disparity.
Where the marks are
- Measure of economic strength (1 mark)
- Modernises agriculture (1 mark)
- Jobs and removal of poverty (1 mark)
- Exports and foreign exchange (1 mark)
- Value addition and reduced regional disparity (1 mark)
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OR
Q31(b) · 5 marks · Long answerManufacturing Industries
"Agriculture and industries complement each other." Justify the statement.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Agriculture and industry move hand in hand and are not exclusive of each other.
  1 mark
2. Agro-industries have boosted agriculture by raising its productivity.
  1 mark
3. Industries depend on agriculture for raw materials such as cotton, sugarcane and jute.
  1 mark
4. Industries supply agriculture with irrigation pumps, fertilisers, pesticides, PVC pipes, machines and tools.
  1 mark
5. Competitive, efficient industries help farmers raise output and make production more efficient. In a globalised economy this also raises the productivity of agriculture.
  1 mark
Answer: Industry takes raw materials from agriculture and supplies inputs and machines to it, so each helps the other grow.
Where the marks are
- Move hand in hand (1 mark)
- Agro-industries raise productivity (1 mark)
- Industries use agricultural raw materials (1 mark)
- Industries supply inputs and machines (1 mark)
- Efficiency and competitiveness raise farm output (1 mark)
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Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q32(a) · 5 marks · Long answerOutcomes of Democracy
Explain any five bases for assessing the outcomes of democracy.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Democracy promotes equality among citizens.
  1 mark
2. It enhances the dignity of the individual.
  1 mark
3. It improves the quality of decision-making through consultation and discussion.
  1 mark
4. It provides methods to resolve conflicts and allows room to correct mistakes.
  1 mark
5. It produces a government that is accountable and responsive to citizens, and it accommodates social diversity.
  1 mark
Answer: Outcomes can be assessed by equality, dignity, quality of decisions, conflict resolution and correcting mistakes, accountability and accommodation of diversity.
Where the marks are
- Equality (1 mark)
- Dignity (1 mark)
- Quality of decisions (1 mark)
- Conflict resolution and correction of mistakes (1 mark)
- Accountability, responsiveness and diversity (1 mark)
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OR
Q32(b) · 5 marks · Long answerOutcomes of Democracy
Explain any five values of democracy.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Equal rights and opportunities for all citizens.
  1 mark
2. Freedom to express oneself.
  1 mark
3. The right to choose leaders and take part in the political process.
  1 mark
4. Respect, dignity and freedom, and the right of citizens to examine how decisions are made.
  1 mark
5. Accommodation of social diversity, with a government that is accountable and responsive, based on deliberation and negotiation.
  1 mark
Answer: Democratic values: equality, freedom of expression, participation, dignity and transparency, accommodation of diversity, accountability and deliberation.
Where the marks are
- Equality (1 mark)
- Freedom of expression (1 mark)
- Participation and choosing leaders (1 mark)
- Dignity and right to examine decisions (1 mark)
- Diversity, accountability and deliberation (1 mark)
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Answer one of these 2 alternatives.
Q33(a) · 5 marks · Long answerWater Resources
"Recent evidence suggests that overuse of groundwater is becoming a serious threat in many parts of the country." Evaluate the statement in the context of sustainability of development.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Meaning: sustainable development means growth that does not damage the environment and does not compromise the needs of future generations. Groundwater is a renewable resource, but it is renewed only at a limited rate.
  1 mark
2. Population growth and intensive irrigation, especially for water-hungry crops, have raised the demand for groundwater far above its natural recharge.
  1 mark
3. Over-extraction through tube wells and pumps lowers the water table. About 300 districts have reported a fall of over 4 metres in 20 years.
  1 mark
4. Nearly one third of the country is overusing its groundwater. If present trends continue, about 60% of the country will be doing so in 25 years. This is clearly unsustainable. Overuse is worst in agriculturally prosperous regions such as Punjab and western Uttar Pradesh.
  1 mark
5. Measures: use water judiciously with drip and sprinkler irrigation, rainwater harvesting and recharge of aquifers, strong regulation of extraction, and control over dumping of toxic waste that pollutes groundwater. Thus the statement is valid, because overuse threatens present and future needs.
  1 mark
Answer: Groundwater overuse is a serious threat to sustainable development. It is driven by population and irrigation demand, shown by falling water tables, and needs judicious use and regulation.
Where the marks are
- Explains sustainability (1 mark)
- Gives causes of overuse: population and agriculture (1 mark)
- Shows depletion with evidence such as the 300 districts figure (1 mark)
- Gives the one-third and 60% projections, and the Punjab and western UP example (1 mark)
- Suggests measures and concludes (1 mark)
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OR
Q33(b) · 5 marks · Long answerDevelopment
"The development goals of different categories of people may differ." Evaluate the statement.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. Different people seek different things in life, according to their aspirations, so their development goals differ.
  1 mark
2. People look for what is most important to them. A landless rural labourer wants more days of work and better wages, while a prosperous farmer wants a higher support price for his crops.
  1 mark
3. Sometimes the goals of two persons or groups conflict. A girl expects the same freedom and opportunities as her brother, and also that he shares the household work, but this may not suit the family's traditional expectations.
  1 mark
4. What is development for one may not be development for another. An industrialist wants more dams for electricity, but the people displaced by the dams resent them.
  1 mark
5. So development goals depend on the group and the situation, and the statement is valid. Conflicting goals call for a balanced approach that considers everyone's welfare.
  1 mark
Answer: The statement is valid. Different groups have different, sometimes conflicting, development goals, as the examples of the girl and her brother and the industrialist and the displaced people show.
Where the marks are
- Each person seeks different things (1 mark)
- Goals depend on aspirations, with an example (1 mark)
- Goals may conflict (1 mark)
- Example such as the dam or the girl and her brother (1 mark)
- Evaluation and conclusion (1 mark)
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Section E

Case/source-based, three sub-questions each

Q34 · 4 marks · Case-basedCompetency-basedNationalism in India
Read the given source and answer the questions that follow :
Print and Censorship
The power of the printed word is most often seen in the way governments seek to regulate and suppress print. The colonial government kept continuous track of all books and newspapers published in India and passed numerous laws to control the press.
During the First World War, under the Defence of India Rules, 22 newspapers had to furnish securities. Of these, 18 shut down rather than comply with government orders. The Sedition Committee Report under Rowlatt in 1919 further strengthened controls that led to imposition of penalties on various newspapers. At the outbreak of the Second World War, the Defence of India Act was passed, allowing censoring of reports of war-related topics. All reports about the Quit India movement came under its purview. In August 1942, about 90 newspapers were suppressed.
1. (34.1)
  Explain the meaning of 'censor'.
  1 mark
2. (34.2)
  Why did the colonial administration keep an eye on books and newspapers ?
  1 mark
3. (34.3)
  Why did Gandhiji start a nationwide Satyagraha against the Rowlatt Act ? Explain any two reasons.
  2 marks
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (34.1) To censor means to keep track of books, newspapers and reports and to control or ban the publication of material critical of government policies.
  1 mark
2. (34.2) Many books and newspapers criticised British misrule, and the vernacular press was assertively nationalist. These publications spread nationalist feeling and unity among Indians, so the government watched them and passed laws to suppress them.
  1 mark
3. (34.3) First, the Rowlatt Act gave the government enormous powers to repress political activities.
  1 mark
4. Second, it allowed detention of political prisoners without trial for two years, which Gandhiji saw as unjust, so he launched a nationwide satyagraha against it.
  1 mark
Answer: (34.1) Censoring means controlling or suppressing publications critical of the government. (34.2) Nationalist, critical writing was spreading unity, so it was watched. (34.3) The Act gave repressive powers and allowed detention without trial for two years.
Where the marks are
- Meaning of censor (1 mark)
- Reason for the colonial watch on the press (1 mark)
- Rowlatt Act gave the government enormous repressive powers (1 mark)
- Detention without trial for two years (1 mark)
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Q35 · 4 marks · Case-basedCompetency-basedFederalism
Read the given source and answer the questions that follow :
An Experiment in Brazil
A city called Porto Alegre in Brazil has carried out an extraordinary experiment in combining decentralisation with participative democracy. The city has set up a parallel organisation operating alongside the municipal council, enabling local inhabitants to take real decisions for their city. The nearly 13 lakh people in this city get to participate in making the budget for their own city. The city is divided into many sectors or what we call wards. Each sector has a meeting, like that of the gram sabha, in which anyone living in that area can participate. There are some meetings to discuss issues that affect the entire city. Any citizen of the city can participate in those meetings. The budget of the city is discussed in these meetings. The proposals are put to the municipality that takes a final decision about it.
1. (35.1)
  Explain the meaning of 'participatory democracy'.
  1 mark
2. (35.2)
  In the context of separation of powers, the given example defines which type of government ?
  1 mark
3. (35.3)
  Describe the structure of the system in India which is almost similar to the above example of Brazil.
  2 marks
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (35.1) Participatory democracy means people take part directly in decision making, as the citizens of Porto Alegre do in preparing their city budget.
  1 mark
2. (35.2) The example shows local self-government, because power is shared with the lowest level of government.
  1 mark
3. (35.3) India's similar structure is the Panchayati Raj in rural areas and municipalities and municipal corporations in urban areas.
  1 mark
4. All these local bodies are elected by the people. In the Gram Sabha of a village, all adults of the area participate directly in discussion and decisions, like the ward meetings in Porto Alegre.
  1 mark
Answer: (35.1) Direct involvement of people in decision making. (35.2) Local self-government. (35.3) Panchayati Raj, municipalities and municipal corporations, with elected bodies and the Gram Sabha.
Where the marks are
- Meaning of participatory democracy (1 mark)
- Local self-government (1 mark)
- Panchayati Raj, municipality and municipal corporation (1 mark)
- Elected bodies and the Gram Sabha as direct participation (1 mark)
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Q36 · 4 marks · Case-basedCompetency-basedMoney and Credit
Read the given source and answer the questions that follow :
Loans From Cooperatives
Besides banks, the other major source of cheap credit in rural areas are the cooperative societies (or cooperatives). Members of a cooperative pool their resources for cooperation in certain areas. There are several types of cooperatives possible such as farmers cooperatives, weavers cooperatives, industrial workers cooperatives, etc. Krishak Cooperative functions in a village not very far away from Sonpur. It has 2300 farmers as members. It accepts deposits from its members. With these deposits as collateral, the Cooperative has obtained a large loan from the bank. These funds are used to provide loans to members. Once these loans are repaid, another round of lending can take place.
Krishak Cooperative provides loans for the purchase of agricultural implements, loans for cultivation and agricultural trade, fishery loans, loans for construction of houses and for a variety of other expenses.
1. (36.1)
  Cooperative societies come under which source of credit ?
  1 mark
2. (36.2)
  Mention any two sources of capital of cooperative societies. ( $\frac{1}{2} + \frac{1}{2} = 1$ )
  1 mark
3. (36.3)
  Explain the role of cooperative societies in increasing the income of farmers.
  2 marks
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (36.1) Cooperative societies are a formal source of credit.
  1 mark
2. (36.2) Two sources of capital: deposits from the members, and loans obtained from banks with those deposits as collateral.
  1 mark
3. (36.3) Cooperatives give loans at low interest, which farmers use for cultivation and so increase crop production and income.
  1 mark
4. They also give loans for implements, fisheries, trade and other needs, and pay interest on deposits, which encourages saving. This raises farmers' incomes.
  1 mark
Answer: (36.1) Formal source. (36.2) Members' deposits; bank loans against these deposits. (36.3) They provide cheap loans for cultivation, implements, fisheries and trade, and encourage saving, so farmers' incomes rise.
Where the marks are
- Formal source (1 mark)
- Two sources of capital, ½ mark each (1 mark)
- Cheap loans for production (1 mark)
- Loans for varied needs and a saving habit (1 mark)
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Section F

Map skill-based: 37(a) History 2 marks, 37(b) Geography 3 marks

Q37 · 5 marks · Map workNationalism in India
Map skill-based question (History 2 marks and Geography 3 marks).
1. (a)
  Two places 'A' and 'B' have been marked on the given political outline map of India (on page 27). Identify them with the help of the following information and write their correct names on the lines drawn near them :
  A. The place where the session of Indian National Congress was held in 1920.
  B. The place where Gandhiji started Dandi March. (2 × 1 = 2)
  2 marks
2. (b)
  On the same political outline map of India, locate and label any three of the following with suitable symbols : (3 × 1 = 3)
  (i) Leading state in production of Jute
  (ii) Atomic Power Plant located in Gujarat
  (iii) Iron and Steel Plant located in Jharkhand
  (iv) Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport
  3 marks
Figure in the paper: Political outline map of India (printed on page 27 of the paper, not included in this extract). Two places are marked, labelled 'A' and 'B' with blank lines beside them for the student to write names: A is to be identified as the 1920 Indian National Congress session venue and B as the starting point of the Dandi March. For 37(b), the student locates and labels any three of: leading Jute-producing state, Atomic Power Plant in Gujarat, Iron and Steel Plant in Jharkhand, and Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport. See it in the official paper.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
1. (a) A: Nagpur, where the Congress session of 1920 was held. This is written on the line near A.
  1 mark
2. (a) B: Sabarmati (Ahmedabad, Gujarat), the starting point of the Dandi March, written near B.
  1 mark
3. (b) Any three of the following are to be marked and labelled on the map, each with 1 mark. (i) West Bengal, the leading jute-producing state, shaded and labelled in eastern India. (ii) Kakrapara atomic power plant, in southern Gujarat, marked with a symbol. (iii) Bokaro or Jamshedpur steel plant in Jharkhand, marked with a symbol. (iv) Amritsar airport in Punjab, marked with a symbol.
  3 marks
Answer: A: Nagpur; B: Sabarmati. (b) Any three: West Bengal (jute), Kakrapara (atomic power, Gujarat), Bokaro/Jamshedpur (steel, Jharkhand), Amritsar (airport).
Where the marks are
- A is Nagpur (1 mark)
- B is Sabarmati (1 mark)
- Each of three correctly located and labelled items (3 marks)
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Source: official question paper, cbse.gov.in. Chapter tags and solutions are ours. Spotted a transcription error? Write tosupport@questionbuddy.in.