Students can access the CBSE Sample Papers for Class 12 Sociology with Solutions and marking scheme Set 2 will help students in understanding the difficulty level of the exam.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 12 Sociology Set 2 with Solutions
Time Allowed:- 3 hours
Maximum Marks:- 80
General Instructions:
- The question paper is divided into four sections.
- There are 35 questions in all. All questions are compulsory.
- Section A includes question no. 1-16. These are MCQ-type questions. As per the question, there can be one answer.
- Section B includes question no. 17-25. These are Very Short Answer-type questions carrying 2 marks each. Answer to each question should not exceed 30 words.
- Section C includes question no. 26-32. They are Short Answer type questions carrying 4 marks each. Answer to each question should not exceed 80 words.
- Section D includes question no. 33-35. They are Long Answer type questions carrying 6 marks each. Answer to each question should not exceed 200 words each.
- Question no. 33 is to be answered with the help of the given graphics. Question no. 34 is to be answered with the help of the given passage.
Section-A (16×1=16 Marks)
Multiple Choice Questions
Question 1.
According to Malthus’ theory of population, which of the following factors contributes to population growth? [1]
(A) Technological advancements
(B) Economic development
(C) Environmental resources
(D) Natural disasters
Answer:
(C) Environmental resources
Explanation: According to Malthus’ theory, population growth is primarily driven by the availability of environmental resources, such as food, water, and living space. Malthus argued that as population increases, the demand for these resources also increases. However, the supply of resources grows at a slower rate, leading to a potential imbalance between population growth and resource availability
Question 2.
What are the laws that allow citizens of a particular state to also simultaneously be the citizens of another state called? [1]
(A) Cross-border citizenship laws
(B) Multiple citizenship laws
(C) Dual-citizenship laws
(D) None of the above
Answer:
(C) Dual-citizenship laws
Explanation: These laws, commonly referred to as ‘dual-citizenship’ laws, allow individuals to hold citizenship in two countries simultaneously. One example is Jewish Americans who have the ‘ opportunity to be citizens of both Israel and the USA. This means they can enjoy the rights and benefits of citizenship in both countries, including the ability to serve in the armed forces of either nation if they choose to do so.
Question 3.
Assertion (A): Gender inequality is natural.
Reason (R): There are no biological reasons that can explain why so few women are found in positions of public power. [1]
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(C) A is true but R is false.
(D) A is false and R is true.
Answer:
(D) A is false and R is true.
Explanation: Due to the apparent biological and physical distinctions between men and women, gender inequality is frequently perceived as inherent or natural. Nevertheless, scholarly research has demonstrated that the disparities between men and women are primarily social constructs rather than inherent biological differences. These social inequalities are shaped by cultural norms, power dynamics, and historical factors, emphasizing the social and cultural nature of gender inequality.
Question 4.
There is no historically fixed or logically necessary relationship between a _____________ and the varied forms of that it could be based on. [1]
(A) state-nation, society
(B) nation-state, community
(C) nation, ideology
(D) community, nation-state
Answer:
(B) nation-state, community
Explanation: Today it is hard to define a nation in any way other than to say that it is a community that has succeeded in acquiring a state of its own. Interestingly, the opposite has also become increasingly true. Just as would-be or aspiring nationalities are now more and more likely to work towards forming a state, existing states are also finding it more and more necessary to claim that they represent a nation. The relationship between the nation-state and community is relatively a new one.
Question 5.
Assertion (A): Family is a site of bitter conflicts, injustice, and violence.
Reason (R): The family is a space of great warmth and care with stories of compassion, sacrifice and care. [1]
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(C) A is true but R is false.
(D) A is false and R is true.
Answer:
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
Explanation: The family can be a site of conflict, injustice, and violence, as evidenced by instances such as female infanticide, violent disputes among brothers regarding property, and distressing legal conflicts. These occurrences highlight how family and kinship, as social institutions, can be entangled in complex and troubling dynamics.
Question 6.
The ways in which individuals may become cut off from full involvement in wider society are known as: [1]
(A) Social inequality
(B) Social discrimination
(C) Social exclusion
(D) Social stratification
Answer:
(C) Social exclusion
Explanation: Social exclusion refers to a broad range of factors that prevent individuals or groups from having opportunities open to the majority of the population.
Question 7.
“Famines were also a significant and recurring cause of increased mortality”. Which of the following is not a contributing factor to famines? [1]
(A) Continuing poverty and malnutrition in agro-climatic environment
(B) Inadequate means of transportation and communication
(C) Failure of entitlements
(D) Increasing birth rate
Answer:
(D) Increasing birth rate
Explanation: Famine is a result of shortage of food and not increase in births.
Question 8.
The colonial impact of is evident in the fields of art, literature, music, and architecture in Indian society. [1]
(A) Westernisation
(B) Secularisation
(C) Modernisation
(D) Sanskritisation
Answer:
(D) Sanskritisation
Explanation: Sanskritization, during colonial period has been utilized in the field of art, literature, music and architecture in the Indian society.
Question 9.
Which of the following is NOT a major challenge faced by rural-urban migrants in India? [1]
(A) Lack of access to basic services
(B) Social isolation and discrimination
(C) Insufficient job opportunities in urban areas
(D) Inadequate transportation infrastructure
Answer:
(C) Insufficient job opportunities in urban areas
Explanation: Rural-urban migrants in India face several challenges when moving from rural to urban areas in search of better opportunities. These challenges include a lack of access to basic services such as healthcare, education, and sanitation (option A), social isolation and discrimination due to cultural and language differences (option B), and inadequate transportation infrastructure that hinders mobility (option D). However, contrary to the other options, the availability of job opportunities is generally not a major challenge for rural-urban migrants. The migration itself is driven by the pursuit of better employment prospects in urban areas.
Question 10.
Stereotypes and prejudices are harmful because they: [1]
(A) Promote cultural understanding and appreciation
(B) Enhance social cohesion and unity
(C) Reinforce biases and discrimination
(D) Encourage open-mindedness and acceptance
Answer:
(C) Reinforce biases and discrimination
Explanation: Stereotypes and prejudices are harmful because they perpetuate biases and reinforce discriminatory attitudes and behaviours. Stereotypes are oversimplified and generalized beliefs about a particular group, while prejudices are preconceived opinions or attitudes based on these stereotypes. When individuals hold these biased beliefs and opinions, it can lead to discrimination, unequal treatment, and social divisions. Stereotypes and prejudices contribute to social inequalities and hinder the promotion of equal rights, opportunities, and inclusivity.
Question 11.
The Satnami Movement of the Dalits in eastern Madhya Pradesh and the movement by Jatavas of Agra are examples of:[1]
(A) Women’s rights’ movement
(B) Peasant movement
(C) Dalit movement
(D) Tribal movement
Answer:
(C) Dalit movement
Explanation: Dalit movements took place in the eastern parts of Madhya Pradesh and Agra.
Question 12.
Assertion (A): Castes are considered as complementary and competing groups. [1]
Reason (R): Each caste holds a distinct position within the system that cannot be occupied by any other caste.
(A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(B) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(C) A is true, but R is false.
(D) A is false, and R is true.
Answer:
(C) A is true, but R is false.
Explanation: Population growth can be influenced by various factors, including fertility rate, mortality rate, and migration rate. While options (A), (B), and (D) are associated with population decline or stabilization, option (C) represents a factor that can contribute to population growth. High migration rates, particularly in-migration or net migration, can lead to an increase in the population of a specific area or country.
Question 13.
Assertion (A): Gender identities can be chosen voluntarily. [1]
Reason (R): Surgical procedures can be used to transition from one biological sex to another.
(A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(B) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(C) A is true, but R is false.
(D) A is false, and R is true.
Answer:
(A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Explanation: In general, ‘male body” and ‘female body’ as a social unit are unchanging identity, but due to so many researches in the field of physiology, the notion of the body is now linked with ‘choice structure’. Transgender as concept, thus, refers to conversions of gender status of body into opposite gender by using choice or certain compulsions.
Question 14.
The conquerors benefited from their domination by extracting a continuous flow of tribute. [1]
(A) Pre-capitalist
(B) Capitalist
(C) Imperialist
(D) Post-imperialist
Answer:
(A) Pre-capitalist
Explanation: The pre-capitalists were able to dominate and extract a continuous flow of tribute, which granted them various benefits and facilitated their conquests.
Question 15.
Which of the following is an example of the secondary sector? [1]
(A) Banking
(B) Agriculture
(C) Mining
(D) Manufacturing
Answer:
(D) Manufacturing
Explanation: Activities in the secondary sector are primarily focused on the production of new products or goods using the raw materials generated by the primary sector. Examples of such activities include manufacturing industries and more.
Question 16.
Santhals, Hos, Oraons, Mundas in Chota Nagpur and the Santhal Parganas are tribes of tribes from: [1]
(A) Tamil Nadu
(B) Haryana
(C) Jharkhand
(D) Karnataka
Answer:
(C) Jharkhand
Explanation: There were many tribes being settled in different regions of India during the earlier times. They had their own culture, language, lifestyle, etc. Some of them are Santhals, Mundas, Oraons, Hos, etc. in Chota Nagpur Plateau, Santhal Parganas of Jharkhand, etc.
Section – B (9×2=18 Marks)
Very Short Answer Questions
Question 17.
There is a direct correspondence between agricultural productivity and the agrarian structure. In areas of assured irrigation, those with plentiful rainfall or artificial irrigation works (such as rice-growing regions in river deltas, for instance, the Kaveri basin in Tamil Nadu) more labour was needed for intensive cultivation. Here the most unequal agrarian structures developed. The agrarian structure of these regions was characterised by a large proportion of landless labourers, who were often ‘bonded’ workers belonging to the lowest castes. (Kumar 1998).
Based on the given passage, answer the following question.
How was the agrarian structure of these regions characterised? [2]
OR
“Regionalism in India is rooted in India’s diversity of languages, cultures, tribes, and religions. It is also encouraged by the geographical concentration of these identity markers in particular regions, and fuelled by a sense of regional deprivation. Indian federalism has been a means of accommodating these regional sentiments (Bhattacharyya 2005).
After Independence, initially the Indian state continued with the British-Indian arrangement dividing India into large provinces, also called ‘presidencies. (Madras, Bombay, and Calcutta were the three major presidencies; incidentally, all three cities after which the presidencies were named have changed their names recently). These were large multi-ethnic and multilingual provincial states constituting the major political-administrative units of a semi-federal state called the union of India.”
Based upon the above passage, answer the following question.
What are the consequences of religious diversity in India?
Answer:
The agrarian structure of these regions was marked by a significant presence of landless labourers, many of whom belonged to the lowest castes and often worked as bonded workers.
OR
- Religious fundamentalism
- Conversion from one religion to another
- Conflicts between different religious communities.
(Tolerance, pluralism, cultural richness, coexistence, harmony.)
Question 18.
What ideas of society did the Dharma Sabha project? [2]
Answer:
Orthodox members of the Hindu community in Bengal formed an organization called Dharma Sabha. They petitioned to the British arguing that reformers had no right to interpret sacred texts.
Question 19.
Examine the social and cultural impact of colonialism on indigenous communities in South Asia. Provide evidence to support your answer. [2]
Answer:
The impact of colonialism on indigenous communities in South Asia was significant and multifaceted. Here are some key points regarding the social and cultural consequences:
- Displacement and Land Alienation: Indigenous communities often faced forced displacement and land alienation due to colonial policies,
leading to the loss of their ancestral lands and the disruption of their traditional way of life. - Cultural Assimilation: Colonial powers sought to impose their own cultural norms and values, leading to the erosion of indigenous cultures and traditions. Assimilation policies discouraged native languages, customs, and practices, resulting in a loss of cultural identity.
- Economic Exploitation: Colonial powers exploited the resources of indigenous communities, leading to economic inequality and dependency. Traditional economies were disrupted, and indigenous people were often subjected to exploitative labour practices.
- Social Stratification: Colonial rule introduced new social hierarchies based on race, class, and ethnicity. Indigenous communities were often relegated to lower social status, facing discrimination and marginalization.
- Resistance and Resilience: Despite the challenges, indigenous communities demonstrated resilience and resistance against colonial oppression. Movements for self-determination and cultural revival emerged, aiming to reclaim and preserve their cultural heritage.
Question 20.
How does the OBC category differ from the “forward” castes and the Dalits? [2]
Answer:
Criteria used for defining OBCs:
- The OBC category refers to the Other Backward Classes, which includes castes that were historically disadvantaged and faced social and educational backwardness.
- Unlike the”forward”castes, which are considered higher in the social hierarchy, the OBCs were subjected to varying levels of discrimination and exclusion, but were not considered untouchable like the Dalits.
- The OBCs are socially and educationally backward, and they are neither part of the “forward” castes nor the Dalit community.
- The “forward” castes traditionally held higher social status and had access to privileges and opportunities, while the OBCs faced social and economic disadvantages.
- The Dalits, also known as Scheduled Castes, faced severe social discrimination and were considered the lowest in the caste system, with limited access to resources and opportunities. They have been historically oppressed and subjected to untouchability.
- The OBCs, although facing discrimination, do not have the same level of social stigma and exclusion as the Dalits, but still experience social and economic disadvantages compared to the “forward” castes.
Question 21.
Provide examples for women’s participation in agrarian struggles and revolts. [2]
Answer:
(i) Tebhaga movement in Bengal.
(ii) Telangana arms struggle from the erstwhile Nizam’s rule.
(iii) Warli tribal’s revolt against bondage in Maharashtra.
(iv) The Chipko Movement in Uttarakhand, India.
(v) The Pink Sari Revolution (Gulabi Gang), led by Sampat Pal Devi in Uttar Pradesh.
(vi) During the Naxalite movement in West Bengal.]
Question 22.
What were the risks that farmers in most of the Green Revolution areas faced when transitioning from a multi-crop regime to a mono-crop system? [2]
Answer:
In most of the Green Revolution areas, farmers have switched from a multi-crop system, which allowed them to spread risks, to a mono-crop regime, which means that there is nothing to fall back on in case of crop failure.
Question 23.
What are some of the different forms that the family can take? [2]
Answer:
Factors shaping the future of the family institution in India:
(i) Changing socio-economic dynamics
- Economic development
- Urbanization
- Increased education levels
(ii) Influence of globalization
- Cultural influences
- New ideas about relationships and gender roles
- Increased mobility and migration
(iii) Technological advancements
- Rise of social media and digital communication
- Impact on family interactions and relationships
(iv) Women’s empowerment
- Access to education and employment opportunities
- Reproductive rights and autonomy
(v) Generational shifts
- Progressive attitudes towards marriage and relationships
- Emphasis on individual choice and personal aspirations
(vi) Government policies and social programs
- Initiatives supporting women’s empowerment, healthcare, education, and social welfare
Overall, these factors are driving changes in family structures, roles, and values, leading to a diverse and evolving concept of family in India.
Question 24.
Why is rising dependency ratio a cause for concern in countries that are facing ageing population? [2]
Answer:
Rising dependency ratio is a cause for worry in countries that are facing an aging population, since it becomes difficult for a relatively smaller proportion of working-age people to carry the burden of providing resources, for a relatively larger proportion of dependents.
Question 25.
Gandhi on Machinery, in Hind Swaraj 1924: “What I object to is the craze for machinery, not machinery as such. [2]
The craze is for what they call labour-saving machinery. Men go on ‘saving labour’ till thousands are without work and thrown on the open streets to die of starvation. I want to save time and labour, not for a fraction of mankind, but for all. I want the concentration of wealth, not in the hands of the few, but in the hands of all.”1934: “When as a nation we adopt the spinning-wheel, we not only solve the question of unemployment but we declare that we have no intention of exploiting any nation and we also end the exploitation of the poor by the rich.”
In the passage, Gandhi discusses how adopting the spinning wheel prevented exploitation. Could you explain how the adoption of the spinning wheel achieved this goal?
OR
Can you provide an example of how machinery creates problems for others?
Answer:
If we adopt the spinning wheel, everyone will have the ability to spin cotton and weave cloth for their personal needs. Additionally, we can produce cloth for the market. If everyone embraces the spinningwheel, the significance of the mechanical industry’s production will diminish. People will find employment within their own homes, eliminating the potential for exploitation by others.
OR
It is undeniable that machinery poses challenges for workers. We can observe this by considering the example of a cottage industry from earlier times, where numerous family members were involved in producing a piece of cloth. Despite their efforts, it took a considerable amount of time to create even a small piece of cloth. However, with the invention of machines, cloth production became significantly faster, more efficient, and cost-effective. Consequently, the work previously done by cottage industries transitioned to textile mills, leading to a shift in occupations for thousands of workers.
Section – C (7×4=28 Marks)
Short Answer Type Questions
Question 26.
“The Indian people had a brief experience of authoritarian rule during emergency.” Justify the statement. [4]
OR
Explain why the nation-state became the dominant political form during the colonial period.
Answer:
The Indian people had a brief experience of authoritarian rule during the ‘Emergency’. During the Emergency period:
- The Parliament was suspended and new laws were made directly by the government.
- The Civil liberties were revoked and a large number of politically active people were arrested and jailed without trial.
- Censorship was imposed on the media and government officials could be dismissed without normal procedures.
- The government coerced lower-level officials to implement its programmes and produce instant results.
- An example of this is the forced sterilisation campaign in which large numbers of people died due to surgical complications.
OR
The nation-state became the dominant political form due to various factors:
- Initially, the use of passports was not common did not require identification tied to a specific nation-state.
- The concept of a nation-state is characteristic of the modern world, where political power is concentrated within a defined geographical territory.
- The rise of nationalism and the spread of democratic ideas are closely associated with the emergence of the nation-state. A nation state is sovereign, meaning it has the ultimate authority over its internal affairs and external relations.
- The nation-state can be seen as a community of communities, where individuals share a common desire to be part of the same political entity, with a shared sense of identity, culture, and aspirations.
Question 27.
Highlight the main features of the demographic dividend in India. [4]
Answer:
Main features of demographic dividend in India:
- The share of working age of people, that is, people aged between 15 years to 64 years, is relatively large.
- There is a very small share of “old people” or people aged above 60 years to support.
- There is also a small share of “young children” or those below15 years ofage who cannot work or those who are dependent.
The relatively large share of working age population is a source of economic growth and prosperity. The main features of the demographic dividend in India can be summarized as follows:
- The share of the working-age population, typically defined as people between 15 to 64 years of age, is relatively large. This indicates a favourable demographic composition where a significant portion of the population is in the productive age group, capable of contributing to the workforce and economic development.
- There is a comparatively small share of the elderly population or people aged 60 years and above. This implies a lower dependency ratio, as there are fewer older individuals who require support and resources from the working-age population.
- Similarly, there is a relatively small share of young children or individuals below the age of 15 who are not yet part of the labour force and are dependent on others. This further contributes to a lower dependency ratio and suggests a potential for greater economic productivity.
The presence of a large working-age population, coupled with a smaller proportion of dependents, creates the conditions for a demographic dividend. This demographic dividend refers to the potential economic growth and development that can be achieved when the working-age population is effectively utilized, leading to increased productivity, innovation, and investment opportunities.
Question 28.
“Process of Sanskritisation encourages inequality and discrimination.” Explain. [4]
Answer:
The main critiques and consequences of the process of Sanskritisation can be summarised as follows:
- Sanskritisation has been criticised for exaggerating social mobility or the ability of lower castes to move up the social hierarchy. Critics argue that the concept overestimates the opportunities for upward mobility and ignores the structural barriers and discrimination faced by lower castes.
- The ideology of Sanskritisation promotes the acceptance of the ways and practices of the upper castes as superior, while devaluing and stigmatising the customs and traditions of lower castes. This reinforces the notion of caste-based superiority and inferiority.
- Sanskritisation is seen as justifying and perpetuating a social model that is based on inequality and exclusion. By prioritising and promoting the practices of the upper castes, it reinforces social hierarchies and marginalises lower castes.
- The adoption of upper caste rites and rituals as part of the Sanskritisation process often leads to the adoption of discriminatory practices. This can include the seclusion of girls and women, the practice of dowry instead ofbrideprice, and the perpetuation of caste-based discrimination against other social groups.
- One of the consequences of Sanskritisation is the erosion of the key characteristics of Dalit culture and society. As lower castes strive to adopt upper caste practices and norms in an attempt to improve their social status, their own distinct cultural traditions and identity may be diminished or lost.
Question 29.
Explain the factors that contribute to time slavery and its impact on workers. [4]
Answer:
Factors contributing to Time Slavery:
- Work Culture: The demanding work culture prevalent in the IT industry, emphasizing long hours and high productivity, often leads to employees sacrificing personal time and leisure activities.
- Client Expectations: The need to meet strict deadlines and deliver projects within tight schedules places immense pressure on IT professionals, resulting in extended work hours.
- Global Operations: Working across different time zones and serving clients worldwide can disrupt regular working hours and contribute to a continuous work cycle.
- Job Insecurity: Fear of job loss or the need to prove oneself in a competitive industry can push employees to overwork, compromising their work-life balance.
Impact on Workers:
- Burnout: Extended work hours and constant pressure can lead to physical and mental exhaustion, contributing to burnout among IT professionals.
- Health Issues: Neglecting personal well-being due to time slavery can result in stress-related health problems, sleep disorders, and other ailments.
- Strained Relationships: Spending excessive time at work can strain personal relationships, causing a disconnect with family and friends.
- Limited Personal Growth: Lack of time for personal development and pursuing interests outside of work can hinder overall personal and professional growth.
Question 30.
What are the key challenges faced by social movements in achieving their goals? [4]
Answer:
There are three theories on social movement
- According to the Theory of Relative Deprivation, social movement results from social conflict. Groups of people feel resentment and rage as they feel deprived of access to resources. However, it is criticised that a sense of deprivation alone cannot lead to social movement.
- In the Theory of Collective Action, Mancur Olson opines that a social movement is an aggregation of rational individual actors pursuing their self-interest. His theory is based on the notion of the rational, utility-maximising individuals. That is, a person participates in a social movement only if one gains something and if the risks are less than the gains.
- Resource Mobilisation Theory was proposed by McCarthy and Zald, who said that social movement’s success depends on its ability to mobilise resources or means of different sorts. Resources such as leadership, organisational capacity and communication facilities, when used within the available political opportunity structure, it is more likely to be effective.
Question 31.
Discuss how literacy, as a prerequisite to education, serves as an instrument of empowerment. [4]
Answer:
Literacy plays a crucial role in empowering individuals and communities in various ways:
- A higher literacy rate equips individuals with greater awareness of career options and opportunities. It enables them to actively participate in the knowledge economy, opening doors to better employment prospects and socioeconomic mobility.
- Literacy promotes health awareness, leading to improved healthcare practices and overall well-being. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health, adopt preventive measures, and access healthcare services effectively. Furthermore, literacy enhances cultural and economic participation, fostering community development and, prosperity.
- Gender disparities in literacy rates persist, with female literacy lagging behind male literacy by approximately 22%. Addressing this gender gap is essential for achieving gender equality and empowering women to fully participate in social, economic, and political spheres.
- Historically marginalised social groups such as Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) continue to face low literacy rates. Improving literacy among these groups is crucial to address historical disadvantages and promote social inclusivity.
- Literacy rates exhibit significant regional variations, with states like Kerala approaching universal literacy, while others like Bihar lag behind. Bridging these regional gaps is necessary to ensure equal opportunities and reduce regional disparities.
- Inequalities in literacy tend to perpetuate intergenerational inequality. Breaking this cycle requires concerted efforts to increase literacy rates among all genders, regions, and social groups. By promoting widespread literacy, societies can work towards a more equitable and empowered future for all individuals.
It is important to prioritise literacy as a fundamental right and invest in educational, policies and programs that promote universal literacy and address the existing disparities.
Question 32.
Discuss the plight of the labourers. [4]
Answer:
- Labourers often face exploitation, with low wages and poor working conditions being prevalent.
- Lack of job security: Many labourers work in informal sectors where they have little to no job security, making them vulnerable to sudden unemployment or income instability.
(1) Health and safety risks: Labourers often workin hazardous environments without proper safety measures, leading to increased risks of accidents and health issues.
(2) Long working hours: Labourers are often subjected to long working hours, sometimes without adequate breaks or overtime compensation.
(3) Lack of social protection: Many labourers, especially in the informal sector, lack access to social protection measures such as healthcare, pension schemes, and legal protections.
(4) Discrimination and marginalization: Certain groups of labourers, such as migrant workers, women, and marginalized communities, may face discrimination and marginalization in the labor market.
(5) Limited access to education and skill development: Lack ofaccess to quality educationand skill development opportunities can further perpetuate the cycle of poverty and limited job prospects for labourers.
Section – D (3 ×6=18 Marks)
Long Answer Type Questions
Question 33.
What does the bulge in the population pyramid above indicate? Explain why the bias towards younger age groups in the age structure is believed to be an advantage for India. [6]
Answer:
The bulge in the middle age group indicates that majority of Indians belong to the working population providing the opportunity called demographic dividend.
- The average age is also less than that of most other countries, thus the changing age structure could offer a demographic dividend for India.
- Thus, the dependency ratio islowand provides the opportunity for economic growth.
- This dividend arises from the fact that the current generation of working age people is relatively large and it has only a relatively small preceding generation of old people to support.
- This potential can be converted into actual growth with the increased level of education and employment.
- Thus, these benefits have to be utilised through planned development.
Question 34.
Labour relations in capitalist society are characterized by a complex interplay between employers and workers. In this system, employers seek to maximize profits, while workers strive for fair wages, decent working conditions, and job security. The power dynamics between employers and workers often lead to conflicts and negotiations,
which are mediated through collective bargaining and labour laws.
Based on the given passage, answer the following questions.
(i) What are the key objectives of employers in capitalist labour relations?
(ii) What are the main demands of workers in capitalist labour relations?
(iii) How are conflicts between employers and workers resolved in capitalist labour relations? [6]
Answer:
(i) Employers aim to maximize profits, increase productivity, and maintain a competitive advantage in the market.
(ii) Workers typically advocate for fair wages, job security, better working conditions, and the protection of their rights and interests.
(iii) Conflicts are often resolved through negotiations between employers and labour unions, collective bargaining agreements, and legal frameworks that govern labour rights and responsibilities.
Question 35.
Who makes up the disabled population in our country? Do you believe that individuals are disabled not because of biological factors, but because society renders them as such? [6]
Answer:
The disabled population in our country encompasses individuals with various disabilities, including but not limited to:
- Mentally challenged: Individuals with intellectual disabilities or cognitive impairments.
- Visually impaired: Individuals who have partial or complete loss of vision.
- Physically impaired: Individuals with physical disabilities, such as mobility impairments or limb differences.
- People with speech impairments: Individuals who have difficulties in speaking or communicating verbally.
- Hearing impaired: Individuals who have partial or complete hearing loss.
- Neurological disorders: Individuals with conditions such as autism, epilepsy, or cerebral palsy.
- Psychiatric disabilities: Individuals with mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, or schizophrenia.
- Learning disabilities: Individuals with specific learning difficulties, such as dyslexia or dyscalculia.
It is important to recognize that individuals with disabilities are rendered disabled by society rather than being inherently disabled. The public attitude towards disability greatly influences the experiences of disabled individuals. Here are some societal constructs and attitudes that contribute to the marginalisation and discrimination faced by the disabled:
- The use of disability-related terms as insults perpetuates a negative perceptionofdisabilities and reinforces derogatory stereotypes.
- Pity and a sense of victimhood are often associated with disabled individuals, leading to their portrayal as helpless or inferior.
- The belief that disability is predetermined by fate or destiny undermines the agency and capabilities of disabled individuals.
- Some cultural and religious beliefs attribute disability to past karmas or actions, reinforcing stigma and discrimination.
- Even in mythology and folklore, disabled characters are often depicted in negative or limited roles, further perpetuating stereotypes and biases.
To promote indusivity and empower disabled individuals, it is crucial to challenge and change these societal attitudes and constructs. Promoting awareness, advocating for equal rights and opportunities, providing accessible environments,and fostering a culture of acceptance and inclusion are essential steps towards creating a more inclusive society for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.