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CBSE Class 10 Social Science 2026 Question Paper (32/1/1)

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Social ScienceCBSE Class 10 · Board exam 2026 (session 2025-26)

CBSE Class 10 Social Science: 2026 board paper, set 32/1/1

The question paper set in the CBSE Class 10 board exam of 2026, as printed: 38 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/2026/X/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. Questions printed only for visually impaired candidates are left out (4).

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

SectionQuestionsWhat it has
A1-8History: MCQ 1-4, VSA 5 (OR), SA 6 (OR), LA 7 (OR), case-based 8
B9-19Geography: map 9, MCQ 10-15, VSA 16, LA 17 (OR), case-based 18, map 19
C20-28Political Science: assertion-reason 20, MCQ 21-23, VSA 24-25, SA 26, LA 27 (OR), case-based 28
D29-38Economics: case/MCQ 29-34, SA 35-37, LA 38 (OR)

Instructions in brief: All 38 questions are compulsory. Internal choice (OR) is given in a few questions; attempt only one alternative. Questions 3, 9, 19 and 21 have separate questions for Visually Impaired candidates in lieu of the printed question.

Section A

History: MCQ 1-4, VSA 5 (OR), SA 6 (OR), LA 7 (OR), case-based 8

  1. Q1 · 1 mark · MCQNationalism in India

    Arrange the following in chronological order and choose the correct option:
    I. Gandhi-Irwin Pact
    II. Rowlatt Act
    III. Poona Pact
    IV. Khilafat Movement

    1. (A)I, III, IV and II
    2. (B)II, IV, III and I
    3. (C)II, IV, I and III
    4. (D)I, III, II and IV
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Rowlatt Act (1919) came first, then the Khilafat Movement (1919-20). The Gandhi-Irwin Pact was signed in 1931, and the Poona Pact in 1932. Order: II, IV, I, III.

      1 mark

    Answer: Option (C): II, IV, I and III

    Where the marks are

    • Correct order II, IV, I, III (1 mark)

  2. Q2 · 1 mark · Assertion-reasonCompetency-basedThe Making of a Global World

    Two statements are given below. They are Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read both the statements and choose the correct option.
    Assertion (A): The Indian subcontinent was a crucial point in 'Indian Ocean trade flows' during sixteenth century.
    Reason (R): Its geographical location connected East-West Asia and Europe.

    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. Assertion is true: in the sixteenth century the Indian subcontinent was a key point in Indian Ocean trade flows.

      ½ mark

    2. Reason is true and explains it: its location linked West Asia, East Asia and Europe, so it was central to trade. Option (A).

      ½ mark

    Answer: (A)

    Where the marks are

    • Identifies A and R as true (0.5 mark)
    • R explains A (0.5 mark)

    Open Q2 on its own page

  3. Q3 · 1 mark · MCQCompetency-basedNationalism in India

    The given image shows a famous painting. Choose the painter of this art work from the following options:

    1. (A)Satyendranath Bishi
    2. (B)Abanindranath Tagore
    3. (C)Rabindranath Tagore
    4. (D)Raja Ravi Verma

    Figure in the paper: A black-and-white reproduction of a painting showing three figures beside a tree: a woman in a sari on the left, a man in a long coat and turban in the centre, and a younger man in a jacket and dhoti on the right. See it in the official paper.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. The painting shows a woman in a sari, a man in a coat and turban and a younger man, in a realistic Western-style oil-painting manner. This is the style of Raja Ravi Verma, so the answer is (D). The identification is made from the description; the image itself is not seen.

      1 mark

    Answer: (D) Raja Ravi Verma

    Where the marks are

    • Correct option D (1 mark)

  4. Q4 · 1 mark · MCQPrint Culture and the Modern World

    Which one of the following pairs is correctly matched?

    Column A (Writer)Column B (Contribution)
    Sudarshan ChakraAnandmath
    Kashi BabaSacchi Kavitayen
    Bal Gangadhar TilakKesari
    Pandita RamabaiAmar Jiban
    1. (A)Sudarshan Chakra – Anandmath
    2. (B)Kashi Baba – Sacchi Kavitayen
    3. (C)Bal Gangadhar Tilak – Kesari
    4. (D)Pandita Ramabai – Amar Jiban
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Bal Gangadhar Tilak edited the newspaper Kesari, so this pair is correct.

      ½ mark

    2. The other pairs are wrong: Anandmath is by Bankim Chandra, Sacchi Kavitayen is by Radheshyam Kathavachak, and Amar Jiban is by Rassundari Devi.

      ½ mark

    Answer: (C)

    Where the marks are

    • Correct pair identified (1 mark)

    Open Q4 on its own page

  5. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q5(A) · 2 marks · Very short answerThe Making of a Global World

    How had globalization begun long before sixteenth century? Explain.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Globalisation began through the Silk Routes, which were vibrant pre-modern trade links over land and sea. They joined Asia with Europe and northern Africa and carried silk, textiles and spices.

      1 mark

    2. The routes also carried cultural exchange: early Christian missionaries and Muslim preachers travelled along them to Asia, and Buddhism spread from eastern India in several directions along them.

      1 mark

    Answer: Globalisation began early through Silk Route trade and cultural exchange.

    Where the marks are

    • Silk routes as pre-modern trade links (1 mark)
    • Cultural and religious exchange, such as Buddhism and missionaries, along the routes (1 mark)

    Open Q5(A) on its own page

    OR

    Q5(B) · 2 marks · Very short answerThe Making of a Global World

    How did trade help to spread diseases during the pre-modern world? Explain.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Traders, conquerors and travellers carried germs with them. The Spanish conquerors of America brought smallpox, which proved to be their most powerful weapon.

      1 mark

    2. America's inhabitants had been isolated for a long time and had no immunity. Smallpox spread deep into the continent, often ahead of the Europeans, and wiped out whole communities, which paved the way for conquest.

      1 mark

    Answer: Trade and conquest carried germs such as smallpox to people with no immunity, causing mass deaths.

    Where the marks are

    • Germs such as smallpox were carried by the conquerors (1 mark)
    • No immunity among the isolated inhabitants, so deaths spread and conquest became easy (1 mark)

    Open Q5(B) on its own page

  6. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q6(A) · 3 marks · Short answerPrint Culture and the Modern World

    Explain the role of Johann Gutenberg in the spread of print culture in Europe.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Gutenberg was a master goldsmith who knew how to polish stones and make moulds for trinkets. He drew on this knowledge and adapted existing technology to design the printing press.

      1 mark

    2. The first book he printed was the Bible, in about 180 copies. This showed that books could be produced in large numbers.

      1 mark

    3. His invention started the Print Revolution. Book production boomed across Europe, and the Protestant Reformation and the reading mania followed.

      1 mark

    Answer: Gutenberg's press began the Print Revolution in Europe.

    Where the marks are

    • Background skills and adaptation of existing technology (1 mark)
    • Printed the Bible, 180 copies (1 mark)
    • Print Revolution and book boom with its outcomes (1 mark)

    Open Q6(A) on its own page

    OR

    Q6(B) · 3 marks · Short answerPrint Culture and the Modern World

    Explain the role of print in the expansion of protestant reformation.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Martin Luther wrote the Ninety-Five Theses criticising the practices of the Roman Catholic Church. A printed copy was posted on a church door in Wittenberg, challenging the Church to debate.

      1 mark

    2. Print reproduced Luther's writings in large numbers and they were widely read. His translation of the New Testament sold thousands of copies within weeks, and a second edition appeared within three months.

      1 mark

    3. This created a new intellectual atmosphere and divided the Church, leading to the Protestant Reformation. Luther called printing the ultimate gift of God.

      1 mark

    Answer: Print spread Luther's ideas widely and led to the Protestant Reformation.

    Where the marks are

    • Ninety-Five Theses printed and posted (1 mark)
    • Mass reproduction and sale of his writings and the New Testament (1 mark)
    • Division in the Church and the Reformation (1 mark)

    Open Q6(B) on its own page

  7. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q7(A) · 5 marks · Long answerThe Rise of Nationalism in Europe

    "The formation of the British Nation-State was different from the rest of Europe." Justify the statement with suitable arguments.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. The British nation-state was not the result of a sudden revolution or upheaval. It came through a long-drawn-out process, and there was no British nation before the eighteenth century.

      1 mark

    2. People's main identities were ethnic: English, Welsh, Scot or Irish.

      1 mark

    3. The English Parliament seized power from the monarchy after a long conflict. It became the instrument that forged a nation-state with England at its centre.

      1 mark

    4. The Act of Union (1707) created the United Kingdom of Great Britain. England thereby imposed its influence on Scotland. Ireland, divided between Catholics and Protestants, was helped by the English to let the Protestants dominate. After the failed revolt of Wolfe Tone's United Irishmen it was forcibly merged into the UK in 1801.

      1 mark

    5. The British flag (Union Jack), the national anthem and the English language were promoted, and the older nations survived only as subordinate partners.

      1 mark

    Answer: Britain's nation-state was formed gradually, through parliament and unions, unlike the revolutionary route elsewhere in Europe.

    Where the marks are

    • Gradual process, not revolution (1 mark)
    • Ethnic identities before the nation (1 mark)
    • Role of the English Parliament (1 mark)
    • Act of Union and Ireland's incorporation (1 mark)
    • Promotion of British symbols and English dominance (1 mark)

    Open Q7(A) on its own page

    OR

    Q7(B) · 5 marks · Long answerThe Rise of Nationalism in Europe

    "Ideas of national unity in the early nineteenth century Europe were closely allied to the ideology of liberalism." Justify the statement with suitable arguments.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Liberalism comes from the Latin word liber, meaning free.

      1 mark

    2. For the new middle classes it meant freedom of the individual and equality of all before the law. 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. Its political rights were limited. In France only property-owning men could vote or be elected, and men without property and all women were excluded. Only under the Jacobins did all adult males briefly get suffrage.

      1 mark

    5. Economically it stood for free markets and the abolition of state restrictions on the movement of goods and capital. This led to the Zollverein (customs union) of 1834, a symbol of economic liberalism that helped unify Germany.

      1 mark

    Answer: Liberalism's ideas of freedom, constitutional government and free markets supported national unity.

    Where the marks are

    • Meaning of liberalism (1 mark)
    • Individual freedom and equality before law (1 mark)
    • Representative government (1 mark)
    • Limited suffrage (1 mark)
    • Economic liberalism and the Zollverein (1 mark)

    Open Q7(B) on its own page

  8. Q8 · 4 marks · Case-basedCompetency-basedNationalism in India

    Read the given source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

    'To the altar of this revolution we have brought our youth as incense'

    Many nationalists thought that the struggle against the British could not be won through non-violence. In the year 1928, the Hindustan Socialist Republican Army (HSRA) was founded at a meeting in Ferozeshah Kotla ground in Delhi. Amongst its leaders were Bhagat Singh, Jatin Das and Ajoy Ghosh. In a series of dramatic actions in different parts of India, the HSRA targeted some of the symbols of British power. In April 1929, Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutta threw a bomb in the Legislative Assembly. In the same year there was an attempt to blow up the train that Lord Irwin was travelling in. Bhagat Singh was 23 when he was tried and executed by the colonial government. During his trial, Bhagat Singh stated that he did not wish to glorify 'the cult of the bomb and pistol' but wanted a revolution in society –
    'Revolution is the inalienable right of mankind. Freedom is the imprescriptible birthright of all. The labourer is the real sustainer of society. To the altar of this revolution we have brought our youth as incense, for no sacrifice is too great for so magnificent a cause. We are content. We await the advent of revolution. Inquilab Zindabad!'

    1. 8.1

      Why is the formation of 'Hindustan Socialist Republican Army (HSRA)' considered as a turning point in the freedom struggle of India?

      1 mark
    2. 8.2

      How did Bhagat Singh's trial speeches transform him from a revolutionary to a philosopher of freedom?

      1 mark
    3. 8.3

      In what way did Bhagat Singh redefine the meaning of 'revolution' for his generation? Explain.

      2 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) Many nationalists felt the British could not be defeated through non-violence. The HSRA brought a new generation of young revolutionaries and spread nationalist spirit.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) In his trial speeches Bhagat Singh rejected the glorification of 'the cult of the bomb and pistol'. He spoke of freedom, justice and social equality, and these ideas made him a philosopher of freedom.

      1 mark

    3. (iii) He called revolution the inalienable right of mankind and freedom the imprescriptible birthright of all.

      1 mark

    4. He saw revolution as a change in society, in which the labourer is the real sustainer, and he asked youth to sacrifice for the cause. His slogan 'Inquilab Zindabad' raised the spirit of freedom.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) It brought young revolutionary leadership; (ii) he spoke of freedom, justice and social change, not violence; (iii) he made revolution a right of mankind and a social change, backed by youth sacrifice.

    Where the marks are

    • 8.1 any one valid point (1 mark)
    • 8.2 any one valid point (1 mark)
    • 8.3 revolution as an inalienable right (1 mark)
    • 8.3 social transformation, youth sacrifice, Inquilab Zindabad (1 mark)

    Open Q8 on its own page

Section B

Geography: map 9, MCQ 10-15, VSA 16, LA 17 (OR), case-based 18, map 19

  1. Q9 · 2 marks · Map workNationalism in India

    Answer the following.

    1. (A)

      Two places (A) and (B) have been marked on the given political outline map of India. Identify them based on the information given below and write their correct names on the lines marked on the map near them:
      (A) The place where General Dyer ordered firing upon a peaceful gathering on 13 April, 1919.

      1 mark
    2. (B)

      (B) The place where the Session of Indian National Congress was held in the year 1927.

      1 mark

    Figure in the paper: Political outline map of India (map for Q.9 and Q.19) with two marked points: A in the north-west (Punjab region, near Amritsar area) with a leader line, and B on the east coast of peninsular India (Andhra Pradesh/Tamil Nadu border region, near Tamil Nadu coast) with a leader line, for naming. See it in the official paper.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (A) Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar (Punjab), where General Dyer ordered firing on 13 April 1919.

      1 mark

    2. (B) Madras (Chennai), where the 1927 Congress session was held.

      1 mark

    Answer: (A) Amritsar (Jallianwala Bagh); (B) Madras (Chennai)

    Where the marks are

    • A correctly named (1 mark)
    • B correctly named (1 mark)

    Open Q9 on its own page

  2. Q10 · 1 mark · MCQResources and Development

    Identify the correct soil from the given options to complete the flow chart:

    1. (A)Alluvial soil
    2. (B)Laterite soil
    3. (C)Red soil
    4. (D)Black soil

    Figure in the paper: Flow chart: box 'Heavy Rainfall' + box 'High Leaching' → blank box '?' → box 'Useful for growing Coffee and Tea'. See it in the official paper.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Laterite soil forms under heavy rainfall with high leaching, and it suits tea and coffee. Option (B).

      1 mark

    Answer: (B) Laterite soil

    Where the marks are

    • Laterite soil (1 mark)

  3. Q11 · 1 mark · MCQForest and Wildlife Resources

    Identify the state related with the Chipko Movement:

    1. (A)Arunachal Pradesh
    2. (B)Madhya Pradesh
    3. (C)Uttarakhand
    4. (D)Bihar
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. The Chipko Movement began in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand, where villagers hugged trees to save them from felling.

      1 mark

    Answer: (C) Uttarakhand

    Where the marks are

    • Uttarakhand (1 mark)

  4. Q12 · 1 mark · MCQAgriculture

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

    Column - I (Types of Farming)Column - II (Features)
    I. Primitive subsistence farming(a) Use of modern inputs with less labour
    II. Intensive subsistence farming(b) Single crop cultivation on large scale
    III. Commercial farming(c) Slash and burn cultivation
    IV. Plantation farming(d) Labour intensive cultivation
    1. (A)I-(c), II-(a), III-(d), IV-(b)
    2. (B)I-(a), II-(b), III-(d), IV-(c)
    3. (C)I-(c), II-(d), III-(a), IV-(b)
    4. (D)I-(d), II-(c), III-(b), IV-(a)
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Primitive subsistence farming is slash and burn, so I-(c). Intensive subsistence farming is labour-intensive, so II-(d).

      ½ mark

    2. Commercial farming uses modern inputs with less labour, so III-(a). Plantation farming is single-crop cultivation on a large scale, so IV-(b). Option (C).

      ½ mark

    Answer: (C) I-(c), II-(d), III-(a), IV-(b)

    Where the marks are

    • Correct matching (1 mark)

    Open Q12 on its own page

  5. Q13 · 1 mark · MCQMinerals and Energy Resources

    Choose the appropriate option to fill in the blank:

    1. (A)Energy Minerals
    2. (B)Non-Metallic Minerals
    3. (C)Non-Ferrous Minerals
    4. (D)Precious Minerals

    Figure in the paper: Tree diagram: 'Minerals' at top branching to three boxes: 'Ferrous' (with 'Nickel' below), a blank box '?' (with 'Bauxite' below), and 'Precious' (with 'Gold' below). See it in the official paper.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Minerals are classed as ferrous, non-ferrous and precious. Bauxite (aluminium ore) is a non-ferrous mineral, so the blank is Non-Ferrous Minerals.

      1 mark

    Answer: (C) Non-Ferrous Minerals

    Where the marks are

    • Non-ferrous minerals (1 mark)

  6. Q14 · 1 mark · MCQResources and Development

    Choose the correct option related to the factors that determined the land use pattern in India:

    1. (A)Political and Religious factors
    2. (B)Cultural and Geological factors
    3. (C)Economical and Historical factors
    4. (D)Physical and Human factors
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Land use is determined by physical factors (relief, climate, soil) and human factors (population density, technology, capital).

      1 mark

    Answer: (D) Physical and Human factors

    Where the marks are

    • Physical and human factors (1 mark)

  7. Q15 · 1 mark · MCQForest and Wildlife Resources

    Which one of the following pairs is correctly matched?

    Column A (National Parks)Column B (States)
    PeriyarMadhya Pradesh
    ManasAssam
    BandhavgarhRajasthan
    CorbettUttar Pradesh
    1. (A)Periyar – Madhya Pradesh
    2. (B)Manas – Assam
    3. (C)Bandhavgarh – Rajasthan
    4. (D)Corbett – Uttar Pradesh
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Manas National Park is in Assam, so (B) is right.

      ½ mark

    2. Periyar is in Kerala, Bandhavgarh in Madhya Pradesh, Corbett in Uttarakhand, so the others are wrong.

      ½ mark

    Answer: (B)

    Where the marks are

    • Correct pair (1 mark)

  8. Q16 · 2 marks · Very short answerAgriculture

    Suggest any two measures for better productivity and organic farming.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Use organic manure and compost. This improves soil fertility and gives crops nutrients naturally, without harmful chemicals.

      1 mark

    2. Use crop rotation or biological pest control with natural predators and bio-pesticides. This reduces pests and keeps soil productive.

      1 mark

    Answer: Organic manure and compost; crop rotation with biological pest control.

    Where the marks are

    • First valid measure explained (1 mark)
    • Second valid measure explained (1 mark)

    Open Q16 on its own page

  9. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q17(A) · 5 marks · Long answerMinerals and Energy Resources

    "Energy saved is energy produced." Justify the statement with suitable arguments.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Saving electricity reduces the need to generate more power, so saving energy is like producing new energy.

      1 mark

    2. Coal, petroleum and natural gas are exhaustible. Saving energy conserves them for future generations.

      1 mark

    3. It lowers the cost of generation, saves money for the country and eases pressure on power stations, preventing shortages.

      1 mark

    4. Simple habits such as switching off lights and appliances when not in use, along with power-saving devices, public transport and car-pooling, save a large amount of energy.

      1 mark

    5. Shifting to non-conventional sources and using limited energy judiciously leads to sustainable development.

      1 mark

    Answer: Every unit of energy saved reduces the need to produce a unit and conserves resources, so energy saved is energy produced.

    Where the marks are

    • Saving reduces the need for generation (1 mark)
    • Conserves exhaustible resources (1 mark)
    • Reduces cost and pressure on power stations (1 mark)
    • Practical saving measures (1 mark)
    • Non-conventional sources and sustainability (1 mark)

    Open Q17(A) on its own page

    OR

    Q17(B) · 5 marks · Long answerMinerals and Energy Resources

    "Electricity has a wide range of applications in today's world that its per capita consumption is considered as an index of development." Justify the statement with suitable arguments.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Industries such as iron and steel, textiles and chemicals run their machines on electricity.

      1 mark

    2. Agriculture uses it for irrigation pumps, tube wells and machinery, which raises production.

      1 mark

    3. Households use it for lighting, cooling, heating and cooking, and transport such as electric trains and the metro depends on it.

      1 mark

    4. Telecommunication, computers and the internet, as well as offices, banks, schools, colleges and hospitals, depend on it.

      1 mark

    5. Wider use of electricity raises productivity, comfort and quality of life, so higher per capita consumption indicates greater development.

      1 mark

    Answer: Electricity is used in every sector, so higher per capita consumption shows greater development.

    Where the marks are

    • Industry (1 mark)
    • Agriculture (1 mark)
    • Household and transport (1 mark)
    • Communication, commerce and services (1 mark)
    • Link to quality of life and development (1 mark)

    Open Q17(B) on its own page

  10. Q18 · 4 marks · Case-basedCompetency-basedWater Resources

    Read the given source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

    FLOODS
    Basic safety precautions to be taken:
    • Listen to radio/TV for the latest weather bulletins and flood warnings. Pass on the information to others.
    • Make a family emergency kit which should include, a portable radio/transistor, torch, spare batteries, a first aid box along with essential medicines, ORS, dry food items, drinking water, matchboxes, candles and other essential items.
    • Keep hurricane lamp, ropes, rubber tubes, umbrella and bamboo stick in your house. These could be useful.
    • Keep your cash, jewellery, valuables, important documents etc. in a safe place.
    • If there is a flood, move along with your family members and cattle to safe areas like relief camps, evacuation centers, elevated grounds where you can take shelter.
    • Turn off power and gas connections before leaving your house.
    During Floods
    • Don't enter into flood waters; it could be dangerous.
    • Don't allow children to play in or near flood waters.
    • Stay away from sewerage line, gutters, drains, culverts etc.
    • Be careful of snakes; snakebites are common during floods.
    • Stay away from electric poles and fallen power-lines to avoid electrocution.
    • Don't use wet electrical appliances, get them checked before use.
    • Eat freshly cooked and dry food. Always keep your food covered.
    • Use boiled and filtered drinking water.
    • Keep all drains, gutters near your house clean.
    • Stagnation of water can breed vector/water-borne diseases. In case of sickness, seek medical assistance.
    • Use bleaching powder and lime to disinfect the surroundings.

    1. 18.1

      Suggest one precaution before using water after floods.

      1 mark
    2. 18.2

      Mention any two measures related to protection of food items during floods.

      1 mark
    3. 18.3

      Suggest two actions to be taken before leaving the house during a flood warning.

      2 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. 18.1 Boil and filter the drinking water before use.

      1 mark

    2. 18.2 Eat freshly cooked and dry food, and always keep food covered.

      1 mark

    3. 18.3 Listen to radio/TV for the latest flood warnings and pass the information on, and make a family emergency kit.

      1 mark

    4. Also keep cash and important documents in a safe place, and turn off power and gas connections before leaving the house.

      1 mark

    Answer: 18.1 Boil and filter water; 18.2 eat fresh dry food and keep it covered; 18.3 listen to warnings and prepare an emergency kit (or secure valuables and turn off power and gas).

    Where the marks are

    • 18.1 one precaution (1 mark)
    • 18.2 two measures (1 mark)
    • 18.3 first action (1 mark)
    • 18.3 second action (1 mark)

    Open Q18 on its own page

  11. Q19 · 3 marks · Map workMinerals and Energy Resources

    On the same outline map of India, given for Q. No. 9, locate and label any three of the following with suitable symbols:

    1. 19.1

      The dam built on Mahanadi river.

      1 mark
    2. 19.2

      Nuclear power plant located in Uttar Pradesh.

      1 mark
    3. 19.3

      Software technology park located in Maharashtra.

      1 mark
    4. 19.4

      Major sea port located in Gujarat.

      1 mark

    Figure in the paper: Same political outline map of India as for Q.9, to be located and labelled with suitable symbols. See it in the official paper.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. 19.1 Hirakud Dam on the Mahanadi, in Odisha.

      1 mark

    2. 19.2 Narora nuclear power plant, Uttar Pradesh.

      1 mark

    3. 19.3 Software technology park in Maharashtra: Pune (or Mumbai).

      1 mark

    4. 19.4 Major sea port in Gujarat: Kandla.

      1 mark

    Answer: Hirakud; Narora; Pune/Mumbai; Kandla (any three)

    Where the marks are

    • Each correctly located and labelled item (1 mark each, any three)

    Open Q19 on its own page

Section C

Political Science: assertion-reason 20, MCQ 21-23, VSA 24-25, SA 26, LA 27 (OR), case-based 28

  1. Q20 · 1 mark · Assertion-reasonCompetency-basedPower-sharing

    Two statements are given below. They are Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read both the statements carefully and choose the correct option:
    Assertion (A): Both, Sri Lanka and Belgium faced challenges of ethnic and linguistic diversity.
    Reason (R): Sri Lanka had majority of Tamils whereas Belgium had majority of French speaking people.

    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. Assertion is true: both countries faced ethnic and linguistic diversity problems.

      ½ mark

    2. Reason is false: in Sri Lanka the majority are Sinhalese, and in Belgium the majority speak Dutch. Option (C).

      ½ mark

    Answer: (C)

    Where the marks are

    • A true (0.5 mark)
    • R false (0.5 mark)

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  2. Q21 · 1 mark · MCQCompetency-basedGender, Religion and Caste

    Look at the given picture carefully and choose the most appropriate option. Which of the following values is being reflected through this picture?

    1. (A)Unity and integration
    2. (B)Equality and Justice
    3. (C)Multitasking and Dedication
    4. (D)Religions and Rituals

    Figure in the paper: Black-and-white sketch of a woman in a sari with multiple arms, each holding different objects. See it in the official paper.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. The woman with many arms holding different objects shows doing many tasks with dedication, so the value is Multitasking and Dedication. This is based on the described figure.

      1 mark

    Answer: (C) Multitasking and Dedication

    Where the marks are

    • Correct option C (1 mark)

  3. Q22 · 1 mark · MCQPolitical Parties

    Find the odd one out regarding the Political Parties of India:

    1. (A)Indian National Congress and Communist Party of India (M)
    2. (B)Rashtriya Janta Dal and Lok Jan Shakti Party
    3. (C)Indian National Lok Dal and Jan Nayak Janta Party
    4. (D)Rashtriya Lok Dal and Jan Satta Dal
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Options B, C and D pair state or regional parties. Option A pairs INC, a national party, with CPI(M), a national party too, but the scheme marks it as the odd one out. Option (A).

      1 mark

    Answer: (A)

    Where the marks are

    • Option A (1 mark)

  4. Q23 · 1 mark · MCQFederalism

    Read the following statements regarding decentralization step India took in the year 1992 and choose the correct option:
    I. Mandatory regular elections for local bodies
    II. Two-third seats reserved for women
    III. Formation of the State Election Commission
    IV. Seats reserved for Schedule Castes and Schedule Tribes

    1. (A)I, II and III are correct.
    2. (B)I, III and IV are correct.
    3. (C)II, III and IV are correct.
    4. (D)I, II and IV are correct.
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. The 1992 amendment made local elections regular, created State Election Commissions and reserved seats for SC and ST.

      ½ mark

    2. Women got one-third reservation, not two-thirds, so II is wrong. Option (B).

      ½ mark

    Answer: (B) I, III and IV

    Where the marks are

    • Identifies II as wrong (0.5 mark)
    • Selects I, III and IV (0.5 mark)

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  5. Q24 · 2 marks · Very short answerFederalism

    Explain any two features of federalism.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. There are two or more levels of government, and each has its own jurisdiction over legislation, taxation and administration for the same citizens.

      1 mark

    2. The jurisdictions are specified in the Constitution, so each tier's existence and authority is constitutionally guaranteed. Fundamental provisions cannot be changed by one level alone.

      1 mark

    Answer: Two or more tiers with separate jurisdictions; constitutionally guaranteed powers.

    Where the marks are

    • Two or more tiers with separate powers (1 mark)
    • Constitutional guarantee, or any other valid feature (1 mark)

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  6. Q25 · 2 marks · Very short answerGender, Religion and Caste

    Explain any two Constitutional provisions that make India a secular nation.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. India has no official state religion.

      1 mark

    2. The Constitution gives all individuals and communities freedom to profess, practise and propagate any religion, and prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion. The state may intervene to ensure equality, for example by banning untouchability.

      1 mark

    Answer: No official religion; freedom of religion and no discrimination.

    Where the marks are

    • First provision (1 mark)
    • Second provision (1 mark)

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  7. Q26 · 3 marks · Short answerPolitical Parties

    "Political parties perform a series of functions in the democracy." Explain the statement with examples.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Parties contest elections and put forward different policies and programmes. Voters choose among these, for example the manifestos of the Congress and the BJP.

      1 mark

    2. Parties play a decisive role in making laws, and they recruit and train leaders who become ministers to run the government.

      1 mark

    3. Parties that lose act as the opposition: they criticise government failures and mobilise public opinion. Parties also raise issues and help people reach welfare schemes.

      1 mark

    Answer: Parties contest elections, make policies and laws, form government, act as opposition and raise issues.

    Where the marks are

    • Elections and policies, with an example (1 mark)
    • Law-making and forming government (1 mark)
    • Opposition and raising issues (1 mark)

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  8. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q27(A) · 5 marks · Long answerOutcomes of Democracy

    "The blend of accountability, responsiveness and legitimacy forms the foundation of a democratic government." Examine the statement.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Democracy lets citizens elect their representatives and control rulers through elections.

      1 mark

    2. Accountability: the government answers to the citizens, who can question decisions, and procedures must be followed before decisions are made.

      1 mark

    3. Responsiveness: democratic governments aim to meet the needs and expectations of the people.

      1 mark

    4. Transparency: citizens have the right and means to examine how decisions are taken, and institutions let them take part in decision-making.

      1 mark

    5. Legitimacy: democracy is accepted as people's own government, strengthened by free and fair elections, open debate and the right to information.

      1 mark

    Answer: Accountability, responsiveness and legitimacy together make a democratic government answerable, transparent and accepted by the people.

    Where the marks are

    • Elected rulers (1 mark)
    • Accountability (1 mark)
    • Responsiveness (1 mark)
    • Transparency and participation (1 mark)
    • Legitimacy with supporting practices (1 mark)

    Open Q27(A) on its own page

    OR

    Q27(B) · 5 marks · Long answerOutcomes of Democracy

    "Dignity and freedom of the citizens are the essence of democracy." Examine the statement.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Democracy promotes the dignity and freedom of the individual. The passion for respect and freedom is the basis of democracy, and every democratic society is built on it.

      1 mark

    2. Respect for women and their equal treatment are necessary ingredients of a democratic society. Democracy cannot be called genuine if half the population is treated as inferior.

      1 mark

    3. Democracy in India has strengthened the claims of disadvantaged and discriminated castes for equal status and equal opportunity. Although inequality persists, these groups now demand dignity.

      1 mark

    4. Democracy makes ordinary citizens value their democratic rights. It transforms people from subjects into citizens, who can question and participate in government.

      1 mark

    5. Democracy guarantees rights, promotes equality among citizens and provides a peaceful method of resolving conflicts. Hence dignity and freedom are the essence of democracy.

      1 mark

    Answer: The statement is justified: democracy rests on respect, freedom, equality, dignity of women and weaker groups, and the transformation of subjects into citizens.

    Where the marks are

    • Democracy promotes dignity and freedom of the individual (1 mark)
    • Respect and equal treatment of women (1 mark)
    • Strengthens the claims of disadvantaged castes to equal status (1 mark)
    • Makes people value their rights and turns subjects into citizens (1 mark)
    • Guarantees rights, equality and conflict resolution (1 mark)

    Open Q27(B) on its own page

  9. Q28 · 4 marks · Case-basedCompetency-basedPower-sharing

    Read the given source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

    POWER SHARING
    Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way political parties, pressure groups and movements control or influence those in power. In a democracy, the citizens must have freedom to choose among various contenders for power. In contemporary democracies, this takes the form of competition among different parties. Such competition ensures that power does not remain in one hand. In the long run, power is shared among different political parties that represent different ideologies and social groups. Sometimes this kind of sharing can be direct, when two or more parties form an alliance to contest elections. If their alliance is elected, they form a coalition government and thus share power. In a democracy, we find interest groups, such as those of traders, businessmen, industrialists, farmers and industrial workers. They also will have a share in governmental power, either through participation in governmental committees or bringing influence on the decision-making process.

    1. 28.1

      How do pressure groups influence the government?

      1 mark
    2. 28.2

      How do social groups benefit from power sharing?

      1 mark
    3. 28.3

      Explain the contributions of citizens in the power sharing process.

      2 marks
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. (i) Pressure groups such as traders, industrialists, farmers and workers influence the government by taking part in governmental committees and by influencing the decision-making process.

      1 mark

    2. (ii) Social groups benefit from power sharing because their interests are protected and they get fair representation. This reduces conflict and ensures stability.

      1 mark

    3. (iii) Citizens take part in power sharing by choosing among competing parties through voting, which prevents power from remaining in one hand.

      1 mark

    4. (iii) Citizens also join interest groups or civil society organisations and monitor government actions, thereby influencing decisions.

      1 mark

    Answer: (i) Through governmental committees and influence on decisions; (ii) protection of interests, representation, less conflict; (iii) voting, joining interest groups, monitoring and influencing government

    Where the marks are

    • Pressure groups influence the government (1 mark)
    • Benefit to social groups (1 mark)
    • First contribution of citizens (1 mark)
    • Second contribution of citizens (1 mark)

    Open Q28 on its own page

Section D

Economics: case/MCQ 29-34, SA 35-37, LA 38 (OR)

  1. Q29 · 1 mark · MCQCompetency-basedDevelopment

    Study the data of a State given below and answer the question that follow:
    Educational achievement of rural population of State

    CategoryMalesFemales
    I. Literacy rate of rural population76%54%
    II. Literacy rate of rural children in age group of 10-14 years90%87%
    III. Percentage of rural children aged 10-14 years attending school85%82%

    If rural children aged 10-14 years are considered, then how many female children are attending school?

    1. (A)90
    2. (B)85
    3. (C)82
    4. (D)83
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Row III gives the percentage of rural children aged 10-14 attending school: females 82%. So 82 of every 100 female children attend school.

      1 mark

    Answer: (C) 82

    Where the marks are

    • Reads 82% for females in row III (1 mark)

  2. Q30 · 1 mark · MCQSectors of the Indian Economy

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

    Column - I (Sectors on the basis of ownership)Column - II (Examples)
    a. Public Sector(i) Amul Dairy
    b. Private Sector(ii) Maruti Suzuki
    c. Joint Sector(iii) Oil and Natural Gas Corporation
    d. Cooperative Sector(iv) Airtel Limited
    1. (A)a-(ii), b-(iv), c-(iii), d-(i)
    2. (B)a-(iii), b-(ii), c-(i), d-(iv)
    3. (C)a-(iii), b-(iv), c-(ii), d-(i)
    4. (D)a-(i), b-(iii), c-(iv), d-(ii)
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. ONGC is public sector, Airtel is private, Maruti Suzuki is joint sector, and Amul is cooperative. So a-(iii), b-(iv), c-(ii), d-(i). Option (C).

      1 mark

    Answer: (C)

    Where the marks are

    • Correct matching (1 mark)

  3. Q31 · 1 mark · MCQCompetency-basedMoney and Credit

    Read the following case and choose the correct option:
    Swapna owns a small farm in her village. She wants to take loan to meet the expense of cultivation.
    From which of the following sources should Swapna take the loan?

    1. (A)Reserve Bank of India
    2. (B)Nearest nationalised bank
    3. (C)Moneylender of the village
    4. (D)Agricultural trader
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. A nationalised bank is a formal source, giving loans at low interest and reducing the risk of a debt trap. RBI does not lend to individuals, while moneylenders and traders charge high interest. Option (B).

      1 mark

    Answer: (B) Nearest nationalised bank

    Where the marks are

    • Formal source chosen (1 mark)

  4. Q32 · 1 mark · MCQGlobalisation and the Indian Economy

    Which one of the following best describes liberalisation?

    1. (A)Protecting domestic industries
    2. (B)Banning foreign companies
    3. (C)Removal of restrictions on trade
    4. (D)Restricting foreign investment
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Liberalisation means removing government restrictions on foreign trade, so the answer is (C).

    Answer: (C) Removal of restrictions on trade

    Where the marks are

    • Removal of trade restrictions (1 mark)

  5. Q33 · 1 mark · MCQDevelopment

    Which of the following organisations publishes the 'Human Development Report'?

    1. (A)World Trade Organisation
    2. (B)World Health Organisation
    3. (C)United Nations Environmental Program
    4. (D)United Nations Development Program
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. The UNDP publishes the Human Development Report every year.

      1 mark

    Answer: (D) UNDP

    Where the marks are

    • UNDP (1 mark)

  6. Q34 · 1 mark · MCQDevelopment

    Choose the correct option to fill the blank:
    Literacy Rate is expressed as a proportion of the literate population in the age group _____ and above.

    1. (A)7 years
    2. (B)8 years
    3. (C)9 years
    4. (D)10 years
    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. As per the textbook, literacy rate is the literate population aged 7 years and above. Option (A).

      1 mark

    Answer: (A) 7 years

    Where the marks are

    • 7 years (1 mark)

  7. Q35 · 3 marks · Short answerGlobalisation and the Indian Economy

    "New technology has helped the world to become connected." Justify the statement with suitable arguments.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Rapid improvement in technology has stimulated globalisation. Improved transport technology allows goods to be delivered faster over long distances at lower cost.

      1 mark

    2. Information and communication technology (telecommunications, computers, the Internet) lets people access information instantly and contact each other from remote areas. Satellite communication supports global information sharing.

      1 mark

    3. The Internet allows instant e-mail and voice communication across the world at negligible cost. Computers have entered almost every field, so the world is connected.

      1 mark

    Answer: Better transport and ICT (telecom, satellites, computers, Internet) have made the world closely connected.

    Where the marks are

    • Transport technology gives faster, cheaper delivery (1 mark)
    • ICT gives instant access to information and communication (1 mark)
    • Internet and computers connect the world at low cost (1 mark)

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  8. Q36 · 3 marks · Short answerMoney and Credit

    Differentiate between formal and informal sources of credit.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Supervision: The RBI supervises formal sources (banks, cooperatives). No agency supervises informal sources (moneylenders, traders, relatives, employers).

      1 mark

    2. Interest rate and cost: Formal sources charge a low interest rate, so the cost of borrowing is low. Informal sources charge a much higher rate, so the cost is high.

      1 mark

    3. Debt trap: The chance of a debt trap is low with formal credit, but high interest in informal credit may lead borrowers into a debt trap.

      1 mark

    Answer: Formal credit is RBI-supervised, cheaper and has a low debt-trap risk; informal credit is unsupervised, costly and risks a debt trap.

    Where the marks are

    • Difference in supervision (1 mark)
    • Difference in interest and cost (1 mark)
    • Difference in debt-trap risk or examples of sources (1 mark)

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  9. Q37 · 3 marks · Short answerResources and Development

    Why is sustainable development essential? Explain with examples.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Sustainable development means environment-friendly economic development. It is essential to conserve resources for future generations.

      1 mark

    2. Resources must be used in line with their availability, and present needs managed in a judicious way. Our future depends on essential resources that are being depleted fast.

      1 mark

    3. Example: groundwater is a renewable resource, but overuse depletes it faster than nature replenishes it. Crops and plants are renewable only if they are used sustainably.

      1 mark

    Answer: It is essential to conserve resources for future generations and to use them in line with their availability, as with groundwater.

    Where the marks are

    • Definition and conservation for future generations (1 mark)
    • Judicious use as resources deplete (1 mark)
    • Relevant example such as groundwater (1 mark)

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  10. Answer one of these 2 alternatives.

    Q38(A) · 5 marks · Long answerSectors of the Indian Economy

    Describe the efforts done by the Indian government to increase employment in rural areas.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. The Central Government passed a law implementing the Right to Work: the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act 2005 (MGNREGA), now replaced by the VB-G RAM G Act, 2025.

      1 mark

    2. Under MGNREGA, all those in rural areas who are able to work and need work are guaranteed 100 days of employment in a year.

      1 mark

    3. If the government fails to provide work, it must pay an unemployment allowance to the people.

      1 mark

    4. Preference is given to work that will increase production from land in future.

      1 mark

    5. The VB-G RAM G Act, 2025 guarantees 125 days of employment, and agricultural development has also been promoted to generate rural employment.

      1 mark

    Answer: MGNREGA 2005 (now VB-G RAM G Act 2025) guarantees 100 (now 125) days of work, with an unemployment allowance and land-productive works.

    Where the marks are

    • Law on the Right to Work, MGNREGA 2005 (1 mark)
    • 100 days guaranteed employment (1 mark)
    • Unemployment allowance if work is not provided (1 mark)
    • Works that raise land production preferred (1 mark)
    • VB-G RAM G Act with 125 days, or agricultural development (1 mark)

    Open Q38(A) on its own page

    OR

    Q38(B) · 5 marks · Long answerSectors of the Indian Economy

    Describe the rising importance of Tertiary Sector in India.

    Try it first, then show our solutionSolution

    1. Over forty years production grew in all three sectors, but the tertiary sector grew the fastest.

      1 mark

    2. The tertiary sector has become the largest sector in India, replacing the primary sector.

      1 mark

    3. Basic services such as hospitals, schools, post, police, courts, banks, transport and defence are needed in any country.

      1 mark

    4. In a developing country the government must take responsibility for providing these basic services.

      1 mark

    5. As incomes rise, people demand more services such as tourism, shopping, private hospitals and schools, and professional training. ICT-based services have also grown rapidly.

      1 mark

    Answer: The tertiary sector has the highest growth and is now India's largest sector because of basic services, rising incomes and ICT services.

    Where the marks are

    • Highest growth in forty years (1 mark)
    • Largest sector, replacing primary (1 mark)
    • Need for basic services (1 mark)
    • Government responsibility for basic services (1 mark)
    • Rising demand for services and ICT-based services (1 mark)

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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.