Students can access the CBSE Sample Papers for Class 12 Sociology with Solutions and marking scheme Set 5 will help students in understanding the difficulty level of the exam.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 12 Sociology Set 5 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.
Assertion (A): Earlier architects and engineers had to be skilled draughtsmen, now the computer does a lot of the work for them.
Reason(R): The use of machinery de-skills workers. [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: Assertion (A) is true. In the past, architects and engineers relied heavily on manual drafting skills to create architectural and engineering designs. However, with the advent of computer-aided design (CAD) software and technology, much of the drafting work is now
automated, reducing the need for extensive manual drafting skills.
Reason (R) is also true. The use of machinery, such as CAD software and computer-aided drafting tools, has certainly reduced the level of manual skill required in the drafting process. Automation has taken over repetitive tasks and increased efficiency.
However, it does not necessarily mean that workers are completely de-skilled. Architects and engineers still require a range of skills, including creativity, problem-solving, and technical expertise, to utilize and interpret the output of computerized tools effectively.
Therefore, while both the assertion and reason are true, the reason does not fully explain the assertion. The role of computerized tools in reducing manual drafting work does not imply a complete de-skilling of architects and engineers.
Question 2.
Which of the following make the Dominant Castes dominant? [1]
I. Small population
II. Land rights
III. Intermediate caste
IV. Decisive role in regional politics
(A) I. and II.
(B) I. and III.
(C) II., III., IV.
(D) I. and IV.
Answer:
(C) II., III., IV.
Explanation: Dominant castes are the upper middle ranking castes with a large population and newly acquired land ownership rights leading to their political, economic and social dominance in a region.
Question 3.
Assertion(A): Members of low ranked caste groups had to provide labour for a fixed number of days per year to the village zamindar. [1]
Reason(R): Lack of resources and dependence on the landed caste for economic and social support meant that many working poor were tied to landowners in hereditary labour relationships.
(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: Members of low ranked caste groups had to provide labour for a fixed number of days per year to the village zamindar or landlord. Similarly, lack of resources, and dependence on the landed class for economic, social, and political support, meant that many of the working poor were tied to landowners in ‘hereditary’ labour relationships (bonded labour), such as the halpati system in Gujarat (Breman, 1974) and the jeeta system in Karnataka.
Question 4.
Assertion(A): Tribes are pristine societies uncontaminated by civilization: [1]
Reason(R): Tribes should really be seen as “secondary” phenomena arising out of the exploitative and colonialist contact between pre-existing states and non-state groups like the tribals.
(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: Assertion (A) states that tribes are pristine societies uncontaminated by civilisation. However, this assertion is not entirely accurate. Tribes have historically interacted with other groups, including pre-existing states and colonial powers. This interaction has influenced their cultures, practices, and societal dynamics.
Reason (R) states that tribes should be seen as “secondary” phenomena arising from exploitative and colonialist contact between pre-existing states and non-state groups like tribes. This reason acknowledges that the formation and development of tribes were influenced by external factors such as colonisation and contact with pre-existing states.
While both the assertion and reason are true, the reason does not directly explain the assertion. The presence of external influences on tribes does not necessarily negate their distinct cultural practices and societal structures. The assertion overstates the notion of tribes being entirely uncontaminated by civilisation, while the reason highlights the external factors that have shaped tribal dynamics.
Therefore, the correct answer is (B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
Question 5.
Which of the following is not a reason for agrarian distress? [1]
(A) Changed cropping pattern.
(B) Changing patterns of landholdings.
(C) Heavy migration to cities.
(D) Shift to cash crops
Answer:
(C) Heavy migration to cities.
Explanation: While migration from rural areas to cities is a significant social and economic phenomenon, it is not a direct cause of agrarian distress. Migration can result from various factors, including limited employment opportunities, seeking better livelihoods, or urbanisation. However, it is not a reason directly related to agrarian distress.
Question 6.
Which of the following is not a result of contract farming? [1]
(A) It disengages many people from the production process.
(B) Makes their own indigenous knowledge of agriculture irrelevant.
(C) It is ecologically sustainable.
(D) Caters primarily to the production of elite items.
Answer:
(C) It is ecologically sustainable.
Explanation: Contract farming leads to:
(a) Disengagement of people from the production process.
(b) Making of own indigenous knowledge of agriculture irrelevant.
(c) focusing primarily on the production of elite items.
It is ecologically sustainable is not a result directly associated with contract farming. While contract farming can have both positive and negative outcomes, its ecological sustainability depends on the specific practices and arrangements implemented within the contract farming system.
Question 7.
The challenge is in reinvigorating India ‘s commitment to practices: [1]
(A) pluralism.
(B) institutional accommodation.
(C) conflict resolution through democratic means.
(D) All of the above
Answer:
(D) All of the above
Explanation: The challenge is in reinvigorating India’s commitment to practices of pluralism, institutional accommodation and conflict resolution through democratic means. Critical for building a multicultural democracy is a recognition of the short comings of historical nation-building exercises and of the benefits of multiple and complementary identities.
Question 8.
Stand Up India Scheme and ‘Make in India’ are programmes that will help to realize the: [1]
(A) benefits of high dependency ratio.
(B) demographic dividend.
(C) benefit of high death rate
(D) benefit of high fertility rate
Answer:
(B) demographic dividend.
Explanation: Demographic dividend refers to the potential economic benefits that arise from a favourable age structure of the population, with a large working-age population compared to dependents. ‘Stand Up India Scheme’ and ‘Make in India’ aim to promote entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic growth, which aligns with harnessing the demographic dividend.
Question 9.
Which of the following statements best describes social stratification? [1]
(A) Social stratification refers to the process of categorising individuals based on their occupation.
(B) Social stratification refers to the unequal distribution of resources, power, and social status in a society.
(C) Social stratification refers to the process of social mobility and upward movement within a social hierarchy.
(D) Social stratification refers to the practice of segregating individuals based on their race or ethnicity
Answer:
(B) Social stratification refers to the unequal distribution of resources, power, and social status in a society.
Explanation: Social stratification refers to the unequal distribution of resources, power, and social status in a society. It is a system that categorizes individuals into different social classes or strata based on their access to resources and opportunities.
Question 10.
With the growth of _____________ movement in the 20th century, there was an attempt in several Indian languages to drop Sanskrit words and phrases. [1]
(A) Brahmanical
(B) Anti-Brahmanical
(C) Women’s
(D) Tribal
Answer:
(B) Anti-Brahmanical
Explanation: With the growth of the anti-Brahmanical movement and the development of regional self-consciousness in the twentieth century there was an attempt in several Indian languages to drop Sanskrit words and phrases.
Question 11.
In a population pyramid, a pronounced bulge in the younger age groups followed by a narrowing in the old age groups indicates: [1]
(A) High birth rates and low life expectancy
(B) Low birth rates and high life expectancy
(C) High birth rates and high life expectancy
(D) Low birth rates and low life expectancy
Answer:
(A) High birth rates and low life expectancy
Explanation: A pronounced bulge in the younger age groups of a population pyramid indicates a high proportion of young individuals, which suggests high birth rates. This means that there is a larger population of children and young adults in comparison to older age groups. The narrowing in the older age groups indicates lower life expectancy, as the population size decreases with age due to higher mortality rates.
Question 12.
Assertion: About 14.2% of the population in Incfcrare Muslims, which positions the country as the world’s second largest Muslim population after Indonesia and Pakistan. [1]
Reason: This is because of India’s massive population, where even small percentages translate into significant absolute numbers.
(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: The percentage of Muslims in India is indeed around 14.2%, and India has a massive population. The reason explains that India’s large population plays a crucial role in making the 14.2% translate into a substantial absolute number of Muslims, thus supporting the assertion.
Question 13.
In outsourcing, work is allocated by _____________ countries to __________ countries. [1]
(A) developed, developing
(B) underdeveloped, developed
(C) developing, underdeveloped
(D) developing, developed
Answer:
(A) developed, developing
Explanation: Developed countries are responsible for allocating work to developing countries because they are more economically and socially stable.
Question 14.
Urban sprawl refers to: [1]
(A) The expansion of urban areas into surrounding rural regions
(B) The decline of urban areas and the migration of people to rural regions
(C) The concentration of urban populations in specific neighborhoods or districts
(D) The redevelopment of existing urban areas to accommodate higher population densities
Answer:
(A) The expansion of urban areas into surrounding rural regions
Explanation: Urban sprawl refers to the unrestricted and unplanned expansion of urban areas into surrounding rural regions. It is characterized by the conversion of agricultural land, open spaces, and natural habitats into residential, commercial, and industrial developments. Urban sprawl often leads to issues such as increased traffic congestion, loss of green spaces, and a strain on infrastructure and public services.
Question 15.
Which of the following concepts refers to the active participation and engagement with diverse cultures, fostering understanding and respect? [1]
(A) Cultural assimilation
(B) Cultural relativism
(C) Cultural appropriation
(D) Cultural pluralism
Answer:
(D) Cultural pluralism
Explanation: Cultural pluralism is a concept that emphasizes the coexistence and equal participation of diverse cultures within a society. It promotes the recognition, respect, and appreciation of different cultural groups and their contributions. Cultural pluralism encourages dialogue, collaboration, and mutual understanding among individuals from different cultural backgrounds.
Question 16.
The person who is refused a job because of his/her caste may be told that he/she was less qualified than others and the selection were done purely on merit. This is an example of _____________. [1]
(A) discrimination.
(B) social stratification.
(C) egalitarianism.
(D) stereotype.
Answer:
(A) discrimination.
Explanation: Discrimination refers to the practices, behaviour or attitude towards another group or individual that disqualify members of the group or the individual from opportunities open to others.
Section – B (9×2=18 Marks)
Very Short Answer Questions
Question 17.
“In all regions of the world persons with disabilities face attitudinal barriers, including prejudice, low expectations and even fear. Negative attitudes about disability impact on all aspects of the lives of persons with disabilities, including the ability to access education, to participate in non-exploitative work, to live where and with whom one chooses, to marry and start a family, and to move about freely within the community.” [2]
Based on the given passage, answer the following question.
Suggest any two ways by which an attitudinal change can be brought about to remedy the conditions of people with disabilities.
OR
One reason to support the statement that there is a close relationship between agriculture and culture is that agricultural practices shape the social and cultural fabric of a society. For example, farming techniques, harvesting rituals, and agricultural festivals are deeply ingrained in the traditions and customs of agricultural communities.
The reliance on the land for sustenance and the cyclical nature of agricultural activities influence the cultural practices, beliefs, and values of these communities.
Passage-based question:
“How does the interplay between agriculture and culture contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage?ÿ
Explain with an example.
Answer:
Here are two ways by which an attitudinal change can be brought about to remedy the conditions of people with disabilities:
- Education and Awareness: Promoting education and raising awareness about disabilities can help to change attitudes. By providing accurate information, dispelling misconceptions, and highlighting the capabilities and contributions of individuals with disabilities, it can challenge negative stereotypes and foster a more inclusive and accepting society.
- Personal Interaction and Empathy: Encouraging personal interactions between individuals with and without disabilities can help break down barriers and foster empathy. When people have opportunities to engage and interact with individuals with disabilities on a personal level, it can challenge preconceived notions and create understanding, empathy, and acceptance.
OR
The interplay between agriculture and culture contributes to the preservation of cultural heritage by ensuring the continuity of traditional practices, knowledge, and beliefs. For instance, in regions where rice cultivation is central to the agrarian lifestyle, cultural practices such as paddy field rituals, traditional seed-saving techniques, and folk songs associated with rice farming are passed down through generations. These practices not only serve as a means of agricultural sustainability but also contribute to the preservation of cultural identity and heritage.
Question 18.
Differentiate between the Zamindari system and the Ryotwari system in terms of their consequences on agricultural prosperity. [2]
Answer:
The Zamindari system and the Ryotwari system were two different land revenue systems implemented in colonial India, and they had distinct consequences on agricultural prosperity.
Here is a comparison of the two systems:
Zamindari System:
- Under the Zamindari system, the British colonial rulers recognised certain individuals or intermediaries called zamindars as the legal owners of land.
- The zamindars were responsible for collecting revenue from the farmers and paying a fixed amount to the British government.
- The zamindars had considerable power and control over the land, often leading to exploitative practices and high revenue demands.
- This system created a class of intermediaries who had vested interests and sometimes neglected agricultural development.
- The burden of high revenue demands and exploitative practices adversely affected the agricultural prosperity of the farmers.
Ryotwari System:
- The Ryotwari system involved direct settlement of revenue with individual cultivators, known as ryots or peasants.
- Under this system, farmers had direct ownership and cultivation rights over the land they tilled.
- The revenue assessment was done based on the fertility of the land and the crop produced, ensuring a fairer assessment.
- The Ryotwari system provided more security and control to the farmers over their land and agricultural activities.
- As farmers had ownership rights, they had greater incentives to invest in land improvement and agricultural productivity.
- The system facilitated a more direct relationship between the government and the farmers, leading to better agricultural prosperity.
Question 19.
How do assimilationist and integrationist policies approach cultural diversity and social cohesion? [2]
Answer:
Assimilationist policies focus on assimilating, minority or marginalised groups into the dominant culture by encouraging them to adopt its norms, values, language, and customs. The emphasis is on minimizing differences and promoting a uniform national identity. Integrationist policies, on the other hand, aim to integrate diverse groups into society while also recognising and respecting their unique cultural identities.
It seeks to create a cohesive society where individuals from different backgrounds can maintain their cultural heritage while actively participating in the larger society assimilationalist policies prioritize the adoption of the dominant culture by minority groups, aiming for cultural homogeneity and societal unity. Integrationist policies, on the other hand, emphasize the coexistence of diverse cultures while promoting social harmony and equal participation for all groups.
Question 20.
“The Industrial Society is characterised by alienation.” How?
Answer:
In an industrial society, alienation refers to a sense of disconnection or estrangement that individuals experience in relation to their work, themselves, others, and the overall social environment. This alienation arises due to several factors inherent in industrialisation and the nature of work within industrial societies.
Question 21.
“Sanskritisation seems to justify a model that rest on inequality and exclusion. ” Give one reason to support the statement. [2]
Answer:
Sanskritisation has been criticised for promoting social mobility or the scope of the Tower castes to move up the social hierarchy, for it leads to no structural change but only helps in the positional change of some individuals. It has been pointed out that the ideology of Sanskritisation accepts the ways of the upper caste as superior and that of the lower caste as inferior. Sanskritisation seems to justify a model of inequality and exclusion. It promotes the belief in pollution and the purity of certain groups.
Question 22.
Give an example of a Dalit Movement. [2]
Answer:
Examples of Dalit Movements are Satnami Movement in Chhattisgarh (MP), Aditya Dharma movement in Punjab, and Mahar movement in Maharashtra are examples of the Dalit movements.
- Dalit Panthers
- Dalit Shoshan Mukti Manch (DSMM)
- Tamil Nadu Untouchability Eradication Front (TNUEF)
- Bhim Army
- Adi Dharam Samaj
- Dalit Liberation Front (DLF)
- Ambedkarite Movement
- Dalit Human Rights Movement
Question 23.
How can individuals actively challenge stereotypes and prejudice in their everyday lives? [2]
Answer:
Categorizing groups of people as “lazy” or “cunning” can have several negative consequences and drawbacks. Some of these include:
- Stereotyping and Prejudice: Labeling a group of people as lazy or cunning based on their ethnicity, race, or other characteristics can perpetuate stereotypes and lead to prejudice. It promotes a narrow and biased view of individuals, overlooking their unique abilities, skills, and contributions.
- Discrimination and Exclusion: Categorising certain groups as lazy or cunning can result in discrimination and exclusion from opportunities such as education, employment, and social participation. It can create barriers that prevent individuals from reaching their full potential and restrict their access to resources and benefits.
- Social Division and Conflict: Categorisations based on negative traits can create divisions within society and contribute to social tensions and conflicts. It fosters an “us versus them” mentality, leading to misunderstandings, mistrust, and hostility between different groups.
- Limiting Individual Growth: Applying such labels to individuals can undermine their self-esteem and self-confidence. It may discourage them from pursuing personal development and success, as they may internalise the negative perceptions and believe they are inherently lazy or cunning .
Question 24.
Read the passage and answer the questions that follows: [2]
Self and identity are intertwined concepts that shape our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. Our self is the core essence of who we are, encompassing our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. Identity, on the other hand, refers to the way we perceive and express ourselves based on our cultural, social, and personal experiences.
(i) How does self-awareness contribute to the development of a strong sense of identity?
(ii) How does the process of self-reflection contribute to personal growth and identity development?
OR
Is the role of the state significant in managing cultural diversity within a nation? How does the state contribute
to the management of cultural diversity?
Answer:
New ideas of liberalism and freedom, new ideas of homemaking and marriage, new roles for mothers and daughters, new ideas of self-conscious pride in culture and tradition emerged. The value of education became very important. It was seen as very crucial for a nation to become modern but also retain its ancient heritage.
- Self-awareness allows individuals to recognize their values, beliefs, and strengths, helping them form a coherent identity.
- Self-reflection allows individuals to introspect and gain a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This process fosters self-awareness and can lead to personal growth, as it helps individuals align their actions and values with their sense of identity.
OR
Yes, the role of the state is significant in managing cultural diversity within a nation. The state plays a crucial role in promoting inclusivity, protecting minority rights, and fostering a sense of belonging among diverse cultural groups. It can establish policies and laws that safeguard cultural rights, promote multicultural education, support cultural institutions, and encourage intercultural dialogue. The state’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity can contribute to social cohesion and create a harmonious multicultural society.
Question 25.
State any four features of a Tribe? [2]
Answer:
- The tribe has its own geographical area.
- The tribe has its own distinct culture.
- The tribe lives in an undeveloped condition.
- Every tribe has its different name, language, and tradition.
Section – C (7×4=28 Marks)
Short Answer Type Questions
Question 26.
“The more mechanised an industry gets; the fewer people are employed.” Explain with a suitable example. [4]
Answer:
It is a fact that machinery creates a problem for workers. We can take the example of a cottage industry of earlier times in which a number of family members were required to make a piece of cloth. Even then it required a lot of time to make a small piece of cloth. But when machines were invented then machines started to make cloth with great speed, in less time and with less cost.
In this way work of the cottage industry went over to machines of a textile mill and thousands of workers had to change their occupations. Human labour cannot be matched with the pace at which a machine can work. Hence, machines have been constantly replacing humans. This has led to increased unemployment. The speed of human labour and mechanical technology is unmatched and hence even if humans try, they give up at some point and leave the job.
Question 27.
Mahatma Gandhi saw mechanisation as a danger to employment. Explain. [4]
Answer:
Mahatma Gandhi objected the heavy usage of machines. He was of the view that labour-oriented modern industries should be set up in India. It can also be said, Gandhiji was not against machinery but, against the craze for machinery. Machinery saves time and labour. However, it deprives people of their jobs and leads to starvation.
Therefore, Gandhiji opined that machinery should save time and labour for all and accumulate wealth for all and not in the hands of a few. He suggested the use of the spinning wheel to end exploitation and unemployment. Both Marx and Mahatma Gandhi saw merchanisation as a danger to employment.
Question 28.
“The Indian people had a brief experience of authoritarian rule during emergency.” Justify. [4]
OR
Discuss the concept of contract farming and its implications for farmers, agricultural productivity, and food security.
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
- Contract farming is a practice where farmers enter into agreements with buyers, usually agribusiness companies or processors, to produce specific crops or livestock.
- It provides farmers with access to markets, technology, inputs, and knowledge that they may lack.
- Contracts offer price stability, assured sales, and improved market linkages, reducing uncertainties for farmers.
- It can promote the adoption of modern farming practices, leading to increased productivity and profitability.
- However, power dynamics between farmers and buyers can be imbalanced, leading to exploitative contracts and unfair pricing.
- Farmers may experience a loss of autonomy and flexibility as they have to comply with buyer requirements.
Question 29.
How did colonialism contribute to the exploitation of indigenous populations and the consolidation of power by colonial powers? [4]
Answer:
- Colonialism involved the establishment of colonies by European powers in various regions of the world, including Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
- Colonial powers exploited the natural resources and labour of the colonized territories for their own economic gain, leading to the depletion of resources and the impoverishment of indigenous populations.
- Colonial powers imposed their political, legal, and economic systems on the colonies, often to the detriment of local cultures, traditions, and institutions.
- Indigenous populations were subjected to forced labour, land confiscation, and discriminatory policies that marginalized their rights and opportunities.
- Colonial powers imposed taxation and trade policies that favoured their own interests, further exacerbating economic inequalities and dependency on the colonial system.
- Colonialism led to the displacement and marginalisation of indigenous populations, as well as the loss of their traditional lands, languages, and cultural practices.
Question 30.
How did the concept of ‘scientific management’ evolve over time, and what significant changes emerged in the field of management after 1980? [4]
Answer:
- Scientific management, developed by Frederick Winslow Taylor, aimed to increase efficiency and productivity through scientific methods.
- In the 1980s, there was a shift in management approaches due to globalization, technology, and socio-economic changes.
- This shifted to a more flexible and decentralized organizational structure.
- Empowerment, teamwork, and collaboration became important in the new management perspective.
- Motivation, job satisfaction, and employee engagement gained prominence.
- Knowledge management, technology, and strategic decision-making became key focus areas.
- Environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility were integrated into management practices.
- Overall, the shift brought a holistic and dynamic approach to management, considering productivity, employee well-being, innovation, and social and environmental impacts.
Question 31.
What is the difference between a strike and a lockout? Discuss the famous strike of Bombay Textile Mills 1982. [4]
Answer:
The purpose of a strike is to compel an employer to agree to terms and conditions of employment, whereas a lockout is intended to exert similar pressure on the employees and the union. The practical result of each, in terms of the impact on the employer’s business, is virtually identical.
A strike involves an organised and united withdrawal of the supply of labour, whereas a lockout involves withholding the demand of labour. The Great Bombay Textile Strike was a textile strike called on 18 January 1982 by the mill workers of Mumbai, under the trade union leader Dutta Samant. The workers wanted better wages and also the right to form their own union. According to the Bombay Industrial Relations Act (BIRA), a union was required to be approved and the only way it could get approval was if it gave up the idea of strikes.
Question 32.
What is a minority group? Why do minorities need protection from the State? [4]
Answer:
A group of people, who, because of their distinct physical or cultural characteristics find themselves in situations of inequality within the society. Such groups include ethnic minorities.
Religious or cultural minorities need special protection because of the numeric/demographic domination of the majority:
- Religious or cultural minorities are politically vulnerable.
- The majority will use state machinery to suppress their religious or cultural institutions, forcing them to abandon their distinctive identity.
- It is necessary to ensure the rights of the minorities.
- Protecting minorities also means doing away with any kind of discrimination.
- It is necessary to bring forth a just and equitable society.
- Safeguarding minority rights is necessary for a strong, unified, democratic nation.
Section – D (3 ×6=18 Marks)
Long Answer Type Questions
Question 33.
Based on the given map about regional pattern of low child sex ratio, answer the following questions. [6]
(A) Express the reasons for the regional pattern of low child sex ratio in India.
(B) Elaborate on the reasons responsible for the decline in the child-sex ratio.
(C) What have been the benefits of ultra-sound technology and the Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Regulation and Prevention of Misuse) Act?
Answer:
(A) Reasons for the regional pattern of low child sex ratio in India:
- The regional pattern of low child sex ratios in India, is that the lowest child sex ratios are found in the most prosperous regions of India.
- Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Gujarat and Maharashtra are among the richest states in India in terms of per capital income, and they are the states with the lowest child sex ratio.
- So, the problem of selective abortion is not due to poverty or ignorance or lack of resources.
(B) Factors responsible for the decline in the child sex ration are:
- Higher death rate due to severe neglect of girl babies in infancy
- Sex-specific abortion, leading to the prevention of girl babies from being born.
- Female infanticide. It is defined as the act of killing of girl babies due to religious or cultural beliefs. It exists in multiple regions of the country.
- Increasing importance of modern medical techniques, such as sonogram (an x-ray-like device that operates through ultrasound technology) to identify the and selectively abort the female foetuses.
(C) Benefits of ultra-sound technology and the
Prenatal Diagnostic Techniques (Regulation and Prevention of Misuse) Act:
- Improved prenatal care and early detection of genetic disorders
- Prevention of female feticide and protection of women’s rights
- Increased awareness and education
- Strengthening of healthcare systems
Question 34.
“. ..The contractors’ men who were travelling to Reni from Joshimath stopped the bus shortly before Reni. Skirting the village, they made for the forest. A small girl who spied the workers with their implements rushed to Gaura Devi, the head of the village Mahila Mandal (Women’s Club). Gaura Devi quickly mobilised the other housewives and went to the forest. Pleading with the labourers not to start felling operations, the women initially met with abuse and threats. When the women refused to budge; the men were eventually forced to retire.” [6]
Based on the given passage, answer the following question.
How do environmental movements encompass economic and identity issues? Elaborate based on the given passage.
Answer:
Environmental movements often encompass economic and identity issues as they intersect with environmental concerns. The Chipko Movement in India provides an example of how these dimensions intertwine:
Economic Issues: The Chipko Movement emerged in the 1970s when commercial logging threatened the livelihoods of local communities in the Himalayan region. The movement sought to protect forests, which provided essential resources for sustenance and economic activities like agriculture, grazing, and collection of nontimber forest products. By opposing destructive logging practices, the movement aimed to safeguard the economic well-being and resource base of local communities.
Identity Issues: The Chipko Movement also had strong elements of identity preservation and assertion. The movement was led primarily by rural women who understood the ecological and socio-economic significance of forests for their communities. Their participation challenged traditional gender roles and empowered women as active agents of environmental protection. Additionally, the movement emphasized the cultural and spiritual connections between local communities and forests, highlighting the importance of preserving their unique identities and indigenous knowledge.
The Chipko Movement, through its focus on economic sustainability and die assertion of local identity, exemplifies how environmental movements address broader socio-economic and cultural issues. By linking environmental conservation with livelihood concerns and cultural heritage, such movements advocate for a more holistic approach to development that takes into account the well-being of both people and the environment.
Question 35.
Home-based work is an important part of the economy. Explain by giving an example. [6]
Answer:
Home-based work, also known as cottage industry or informal sector work, plays a significant role in the economy. It involves individuals carrying out various economic activities from their homes. Here is an example to illustrate the importance of home-based work:
Example:
In many developing countries, handmade crafts and textiles produced by artisans working from their homes contribute significantly to the local economy. Artisans create beautiful handcrafted items such as pottery, textiles, jewellery, and artwork using traditional techniques passed down through generations. These products often have cultural and artistic value, attracting both domestic and international markets.
Artisans engaged in home-based work have the flexibility to set their own schedules and work at their own pace. They can balance their work with household responsibilities, child care, and other commitments. By earning income through home-based work, artisans contribute to their family’s financial well-being and the local economy.
Furthermore, home-based work preserves traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage. It allows artisans to showcase their unique skills and creativity, contributing to the preservation and promotion of local traditions and cultural identity.
Overall, home-based work exemplifies the importance of individual creativity, entrepreneurship, and the preservation of cultural heritage, making it a vital component of the economy.