CBSE Class 12 History Question Paper 2025 Solved Code 61-1-1

SECTION A

1. Which of the following is correct regarding Harappan script? [1 Mark]
(A) This script was alphabetical.
(B) It was written from left to right.
(C) This script has not been deciphered so far.
(D) This script has a few signs or symbols.

Answer: (C) This script has not been deciphered so far.

Teacher's Note:
a) Remember that despite many attempts, the Harappan script remains undeciphered till date.
b) Do not confuse it with alphabetical scripts like Brahmi.

2. In which of the following sites of Harappan civilization, the terracotta models of plough have been discovered? [1 Mark]
(A) Kalibangan and Dholavira
(B) Shortughai and Lothal
(C) Banawali and Cholistan
(D) Sanghol and Rakhigarhi

Answer: (C) Banawali and Cholistan

Teacher's Note:
a) These terracotta ploughs give evidence of ploughed fields in the Harappan economy.
b) Do not mix up Kalibangan's actual ploughed field evidence with the terracotta model sites.

3. Two statements have been given below as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read the statements and choose the appropriate answer: [1 Mark]
Assertion (A): Buddhism grew rapidly both during the lifetime and after the death of Buddha.
Reason (R): Many people were dissatisfied with existing religious practices and confused by the rapid social changes taking place around them.
(A) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct reasoning of (A).
(B) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct reasoning of (A).
(C) (A) is true, (R) is untrue.
(D) (A) is untrue, (R) is true.

Answer: (A) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct reasoning of (A).

Teacher's Note:
a) Link the spread of Buddhism to the social discontent of the sixth century BCE.
b) In Assertion-Reason questions, always check if R logically explains A.

4. Consider the following statements regarding Jainism and choose the correct option: [1 Mark]
I. The cycle of birth and rebirth is shaped through Karma.
II. There is a need to renounce the world.
III. Worldly existence is a necessary condition for attaining salvation.
IV. Principle of Ahimsa is important.
(A) I, II and III
(B) II, III and IV
(C) I, II and IV
(D) I, III and IV

Answer: (C) I, II and IV

Teacher's Note:
a) Jainism sees worldly existence as full of suffering, not necessary for salvation, so statement III is wrong.
b) Ahimsa and renunciation are core Jain principles to remember.

5. Match Column-I with Column-II and choose the correct option from the following: [1 Mark]
Column-I (Ancient Mahajanpadas): a. Magadh b. Avanti c. Gandhara d. Koshala
Column-II (Present Region): I. Qandhar (Eastern Afghanistan) II. Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) III. Patna (Bihar) IV. Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh)
(A) a-III, b-II, c-I, d-IV
(B) a-IV, b-II, c-I, d-III
(C) a-III, b-IV, c-I, d-II
(D) a-II, b-I, c-III, d-IV

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

Teacher's Note:
a) Magadh's capital area is present-day Patna, Avanti is around Ujjain.
b) Learn present-day locations of Mahajanapadas for such matching questions.

6. Prabhavati Gupta is best known for which of the following roles? [1 Mark]
(A) Wife of Ashoka and Promoter of Buddhist Sangha
(B) Queen of Mauryan Empire and Promoter of Buddhism
(C) Wife of Samudragupta and Poet of the Gupta Era
(D) Daughter of Chandragupta-II and Wife of Vakataka King

Answer: (D) Daughter of Chandragupta-II and Wife of Vakataka King

Teacher's Note:
a) Prabhavati Gupta is an exceptional example of a woman inheriting/exercising political authority.
b) Remember her Vakataka marriage links Gupta and Vakataka dynasties.

7. The following picture shows the structure of a temple carved out of single piece of rock. Identify this temple correctly from the given options: [1 Mark]
(A) Deogarh Temple
(B) Kailashnatha Temple
(C) Mahabalipuram Temple
(D) Brihideshwara Temple

[Figure: Black and white photograph of a rock-cut temple complex with multiple carved shrines, pillars, and sculpted panels, cut out of a single hill of rock.]

Answer: (B) Kailashnatha Temple

Teacher's Note:
a) Kailashnatha Temple at Ellora is a famous example of monolithic rock-cut architecture.
b) Do not confuse it with structural temples like Brihadeshwara which are built, not carved.

For Visually Impaired Candidates (in lieu of Q. 7)

In which of the following states Kailashnatha Temple is located? [1 Mark]
(A) Uttar Pradesh
(B) Tamil Nadu
(C) Maharashtra
(D) Andhra Pradesh

Answer: (C) Maharashtra

Teacher's Note:
a) Kailashnatha Temple is located at Ellora in Maharashtra.
b) Remember Ellora and Ajanta caves are both in Maharashtra.

8. Al-Biruni's major work 'Kitab-ul-Hind' is significant for its comprehensive study of India. Which of the following was the primary aim of this work? [1 Mark]
(A) Promote Islamic teaching
(B) Map geographical locations
(C) Critique culture and traditions
(D) Document Indian culture

Answer: (D) Document Indian culture

Teacher's Note:
a) Al-Biruni's aim was descriptive documentation, not judgment or criticism.
b) Remember he used Sanskrit texts and personal observation for his study.

9. Throughout his extensive travels, Ibn Batuta was able to explore unfamiliar cultures and societies. Which of the following competencies did he most likely develop? [1 Mark]
(A) Leadership and Judicial Management
(B) Cultural Competencies and Skills
(C) Knowledge of Administration and Army
(D) Scientific and Technical expertise

Answer: (B) Cultural Competencies and Skills

Teacher's Note:
a) Ibn Batuta's travels made him skilled in understanding diverse cultures.
b) Focus on the keyword "unfamiliar cultures" to link with cultural competencies.

10. Which of the following statements regarding Colonel Colin Mackenzie are correct? Choose the correct option: [1 Mark]
I. The ruins of Hampi were brought to light in 1800 by him.
II. He was an official of East India Company.
III. He prepared the first survey maps of the site.
IV. He received information of Vijayanagara empire from the Duarte Barbosa.
(A) I, II and III
(B) II, III and IV
(C) I, III and IV
(D) I, II and IV

Answer: (A) I, II and III

Teacher's Note:
a) Mackenzie's information came from a priest of the Virupaksha temple, not Duarte Barbosa.
b) Remember Mackenzie was the first Surveyor General of India.

11. Match Column-I with Column-II and choose the correct option from the following: [1 Mark]
Column-I (Foreign Travellers): a. Afanasi Nikitin b. Domingo Paes c. Abdur-Razzak d. Nicolo de Conti
Column-II (Countries): I. Persia II. Russia III. Portugal IV. Italy
(A) a-III, b-IV, c-I, d-II
(B) a-II, b-III, c-I, d-IV
(C) a-I, b-II, c-IV, d-III
(D) a-II, b-I, c-III, d-IV

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

Teacher's Note:
a) Afanasi Nikitin was Russian, Domingo Paes was Portuguese.
b) Learn the nationality of each foreign traveller to Vijayanagara.

12. Which of the following is a major source to understand agrarian history of 16^th and 17^th century India? [1 Mark]
(A) Revenue records of Agra & Delhi
(B) Relationship between peasants and zamindars
(C) Important chronicle - the Ain-e-Akbari
(D) Types of agricultural crops grown at that time

Answer: (C) Important chronicle - the Ain-e-Akbari

Teacher's Note:
a) Ain-e-Akbari by Abul Fazl is the most detailed administrative chronicle of Akbar's reign.
b) Remember it gives detailed information on revenue, crops, and prices.

13. Which one of the following statements is most appropriate regarding the zamindars of 16^th and 17^th century India? [1 Mark]
(A) The zamindars were the exploitative class for the peasants.
(B) The zamindars collected revenue on behalf of the state.
(C) They always maintained cordial relations with the villagers.
(D) The zamindars had small piece of lands for personal use.

Answer: (B) The zamindars collected revenue on behalf of the state.

Teacher's Note:
a) Zamindars acted as intermediaries between the state and the peasants.
b) Do not generalise all zamindars as exploitative; relations varied.

14. In a modern city, a group of friends discusses the relevance of Kabir's teachings in today's society. Some believe these are outdated, while others see their significance in promoting equality and love. Which of the following scenario best reflects Kabir's relevance today? [1 Mark]
(A) A debate on Kabir's historical context
(B) A discussion dismissing spirituality irrelevant
(C) Focus on societal norms and traditions only
(D) Seeking simple connection with the divine

Answer: (D) Seeking simple connection with the divine

Teacher's Note:
a) Kabir emphasised a simple, direct relationship with God beyond rituals.
b) Link this to his teachings against orthodoxy in both Hinduism and Islam.

15. Which one of the following was the main cause of the Santhal Rebellion of 1855? [1 Mark]
(A) Imposition of the Summary Settlement
(B) Cultural suppression by the British
(C) Imposition of Western education
(D) Heavy taxes and land annexation

Answer: (D) Heavy taxes and land annexation

Teacher's Note:
a) The Santhals rebelled against moneylenders, zamindars and the colonial state for taking over their land.
b) Remember the term "Damin-i-Koh" area where Santhals settled.

16. Find the odd one out regarding the Permanent Settlement of 1793. [1 Mark]
(A) The Sunset law
(B) The Burdwan's Auction
(C) The Fifth Report
(D) The Deccan Riots Commission

Answer: (D) The Deccan Riots Commission

Teacher's Note:
a) The Deccan Riots Commission relates to the Ryotwari areas of Bombay, not the Permanent Settlement of Bengal.
b) Sunset law, Burdwan's Auction and Fifth Report are all connected to Bengal's Permanent Settlement.

17. Match the Column-I with Column-II and choose the correct option: [1 Mark]
Column-I (Leadership of the Revolt of 1857): a. Shah Mal b. Kunwar Singh c. Birjis Qadr d. Nana Sahib
Column-II (Regions): I. Lucknow II. Kanpur III. Baraut IV. Arrah
(A) a-II, b-III, c-IV, d-I
(B) a-III, b-IV, c-I, d-II
(C) a-III, b-II, c-I, d-IV
(D) a-IV, b-II, c-III, d-I

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

Teacher's Note:
a) Shah Mal led revolt around Baraut, Kunwar Singh at Arrah.
b) Remember Birjis Qadr was the boy-king proclaimed at Lucknow.

18. Arrange the following historical events in a correct chronological order and choose the correct option: [1 Mark]
I. Making of the Constituent Assembly
II. Jallianwala Bagh Massacre
III. Quit India Movement
IV. Gandhi-Irwin Pact
(A) II, III, I and IV
(B) II, IV, III and I
(C) III, II, I and IV
(D) IV, III, I and II

Answer: (B) II, IV, III and I

Teacher's Note:
a) Jallianwala Bagh (1919) came before Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931), then Quit India (1942), then Constituent Assembly (1946-47).
b) Memorise a rough timeline of major national movement events for such questions.

19. Which one of the following was a key feature of the 'Subsidiary Alliance' introduced by Lord Wellesley in 1798? [1 Mark]
(A) Free Trade Policy brought by British
(B) Maintenance of native army by British
(C) Imposition of Western Customs by British
(D) Protection of native territory by British

Answer: (D) Protection of native territory by British

Teacher's Note:
a) Under Subsidiary Alliance, Indian rulers accepted British troops in exchange for protection while surrendering control over foreign affairs.
b) Remember this policy expanded British political control without direct annexation.

20. Which one of the following pair is correctly matched? [1 Mark]
List-I (Name of Important Committees of Constituent Assembly): (A) Flag Committee (B) Union Power Committee (C) Rules of Procedure Committee (D) States Committee
List-II (Name of President): H.C. Mookerjee / Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru / S. Varadachariar / J.B. Kripalani

Answer: (B) Union Power Committee - Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru

Teacher's Note:
a) Nehru headed the Union Powers Committee which decided the federal structure.
b) Learn the heads of major Constituent Assembly committees for such matching.

21. Identify the member of the Constituent Assembly with the help of the following information: [1 Mark]
He was the President of the Constituent Assembly.
He was the first President of the Independent India.
(A) Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
(B) Zakir Hussain
(C) V.V. Giri
(D) Rajendra Prasad

Answer: (D) Rajendra Prasad

Teacher's Note:
a) Dr. Rajendra Prasad presided over the Constituent Assembly and later became the first President of India.
b) Do not confuse him with Dr. Radhakrishnan who was the first Vice-President.

SECTION B

22. (a) "Ashokan inscriptions are the most significant sources to understand the administration of Ashoka." Explain the statement. [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. Ashoka's messages were inscribed on natural rocks and polished stone pillars, and mention five major political centres of administration.
2. He used inscriptions to spread his idea of Dhamma, urging respect for elders, kindness to slaves and servants, and respect for all religions.
3. He mentions the appointment of officials called Pativedakas to report directly to the king, showing an organised administrative system.

Teacher's Note:
a) Emphasise that inscriptions are a primary source, unlike later literary accounts.
b) Mention the use of Prakrit, Greek and Kharosthi scripts as an additional point if space permits.

OR

(b) "The history of Mauryan empire has been constructed on the variety of sources." Explain the statement. [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. Archaeological finds such as sculptures and monastery remains give material evidence of Mauryan times.
2. Contemporary texts like Kautilya's Arthashastra and the account of the Greek ambassador Megasthenes describe Mauryan administration and society.
3. Buddhist, Jaina and Puranic literature, along with Ashoka's inscriptions and punch-marked coins, add further details to the picture.

Teacher's Note:
a) Group the sources into archaeological, literary and epigraphic categories for clarity.
b) Mention Ashokavadana as another literary source if extra detail is needed.

23. "The mid-first millennium BCE is considered as a significant turning point in the course of World History." Justify the statement. [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. This period saw the emergence of major thinkers such as Zarathustra in Iran, Confucius (Kong Zi) in China, Socrates and Plato in Greece, and Mahavira and Gautama Buddha in India.
2. It witnessed the rise of new kingdoms, cities and the growth of diverse systems of thought and philosophy.
3. There were significant changes in social and economic life, including the rise of Mahajanapadas, use of iron, and the development of agriculture and punch-marked coins.

Teacher's Note:
a) Name at least two thinkers from different regions for full marks.
b) Link intellectual change with material change (iron, coins) to show a complete answer.

24. (a) Analyse the causes that led to the ruin of Vijayanagara empire. [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. After the death of Krishnadeva Raya, strains appeared within the imperial structure as his successors faced rebellious Nayakas or military chiefs.
2. The shifting military alignments between Vijayanagara and the Deccan Sultanates led to conflicts, with Rama Raya, the chief minister, leading the army against Bijapur and Golconda.
3. In the Battle of Talikota, Rama Raya was defeated, and the city of Vijayanagara was destroyed and fell into ruins.

Teacher's Note:
a) Remember the sequence: succession crisis, shifting alliances, Battle of Talikota, ruin.
b) The Battle of Talikota (1565) is a key date to recall.

OR

(b) Analyse why was Amar-nayaka system considered as a major political innovation of the Vijayanagara empire. [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. Many features of the Amara Nayaka system were derived from the Iqta system of the Delhi Sultanate.
2. Amara Nayakas were military commanders given territory to govern, from which they collected taxes from peasants, craftspersons and traders, retaining part of the revenue for themselves.
3. They maintained a contingent of horses and elephants for the king's army and sent annual tributes, personally appearing at court with gifts to show loyalty.

Teacher's Note:
a) Compare the Amara Nayaka system with the Iqta system to show understanding of continuity.
b) Highlight the dual role of the Nayakas as revenue collectors and military commanders.

25. Examine the role of Panchayat in advocating for the rights of common people during the Mughal era. [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. Panchayats were a heterogeneous assembly of village elders whose decisions were binding on members, and they used collected funds for community welfare.
2. They had the authority to levy fines and inflict more serious punishments such as expulsion from the community, and they settled land disputes.
3. Panchayats received petitions from common people, including women, and their decisions were respected by the state, showing their role in protecting people's rights.

Teacher's Note:
a) Highlight that even the state respected panchayat decisions, showing their legitimacy.
b) Mention that women could also approach the panchayat for justice.

26. "The rebellion of 1857 was seen as a war in which both Hindus and Muslims had equally to lose or gain." Analyse the statement. [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. All sections of the Indian population took part in the revolt of 1857, and rebel proclamations repeatedly appealed to all people to join the struggle.
2. The ishtahars (proclamations) recalled the pre-British Hindu-Muslim past and glorified the coexistence of communities under Mughal rule, appealing to sentiments of both Hindus and Muslims.
3. The proclamation issued in the name of Bahadur Shah invoked both Muhammad and Mahavir, showing that the British could not break Hindu-Muslim unity, though missionary activities had created some fear of religious conversion.

Teacher's Note:
a) Use the term "ishtahars" to show familiarity with the source material.
b) Mention Bahadur Shah's proclamation as a key example of shared appeal.

27. Describe the role of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in the Constituent Assembly. [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a lawyer and economist, was a very important member of the Assembly who later joined the Union Cabinet as Law Minister.
2. He was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee and was responsible for guiding the Draft Constitution through the Assembly.
3. He spoke in favour of a strong centre, no longer supported separate electorates, and presided over the discussion on the Hindu Code Bill.

Teacher's Note:
a) Remember "Chairman of the Drafting Committee" as his key designation.
b) Note his changed stance on separate electorates compared to earlier demands.

SECTION C

28. (A) "There were specific features of the familial relationship during the Mahabharata period." Explain the statement with examples. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. Families were usually parts of larger networks called relatives, and familial ties, though regarded as "natural" and blood-based, were defined differently in different societies.
2. The Mahabharata describes a feud over land and power between the Kauravas and Pandavas, cousins belonging to one ruling family, and the Pandavas' victory reinforced the ideal of patrilineal succession.
3. Under patriliny, sons could claim their father's resources, including the throne, and most ruling dynasties from the sixth century BCE claimed to follow this system, though variations existed.
4. Sometimes brothers succeeded one another, other kinsmen claimed the throne, and in exceptional cases women inherited the throne or property, as seen with Prabhavati Gupta.
5. Brahmins laid down codes of social behaviour, but the Brahmanical prescription was not followed universally, and many common people followed their own customs.
6. There were eight different kinds of marriage mentioned, such as Draupadi's marriage and Bhima's marriage to Hidimba, showing variety in marital practices.
7. Gotra rules were not followed by all ruling dynasties, for example the Satavahanas.
8. Mothers had an important place in the family, though their advice was not always upheld, as seen with Kunti and Gandhari, and respect was shown based on hierarchy of caste and gender.

Teacher's Note:
a) Always give the Kaurava-Pandava example to anchor your answer in the Mahabharata period.
b) Use Prabhavati Gupta as an example of exception to patriliny for higher marks.

OR

(B) "The political power or kingship was rarely dependent on birth as Kshatriyas but also open to anyone who could muster support and resources." Explain the statement with the examples from sixth century BCE onwards. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. According to the Dharmashastras and Dharmasutras, only Kshatriyas could be kings, but this Brahmanical prescription was not followed universally.
2. Several important ruling lineages probably had different origins, and there are examples of people of other castes, even of low origin, becoming rulers.
3. Buddhist texts suggest the Mauryas had a Kshatriya background, while Brahmanical texts describe them as being of "low" origin, showing contested claims.
4. The Shungas and Kanvas, who ruled after the Mauryas, were Brahmins by origin, contradicting the idea that only Kshatriyas could rule.
5. The Shakas, who came from Central Asia, were regarded as Mlechchhas (foreigners) by Brahmanical standards, yet they ruled significant territories.
6. Some powerful Mlechchha rulers were familiar with Sanskritic traditions and adopted them to legitimise their rule.
7. The Satavahana dynasty claimed to be Brahmanas; for example, Gotami Puta Siri Satakani claimed to be a unique Brahmin and a destroyer of the pride of the Kshatriyas.
8. All this shows that political power depended less on birth and more on the ability to muster support and resources.

Teacher's Note:
a) Use the Satavahana example of Gotami Puta Siri Satakani as strong evidence.
b) Contrast Buddhist and Brahmanical accounts of the Mauryas to show critical thinking.

29. (A) Explain the main beliefs and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. Guru Nanak's message is spelt out in his hymns and teachings, and he advocated a form of nirguna bhakti.
2. He repudiated the external practices of religions, rejecting sacrifices, ritual baths, image worship, austerities, and the scriptures of both Hindus and Muslims.
3. He believed the Absolute or "rab" had no gender or form, and he proposed a simple way to connect with the Divine through remembering and repeating the Divine Name.
4. He expressed his ideas through hymns called "shabad" and organised his followers into a community.
5. He set up rules for congregational worship called sangat, which involved collective recitation.
6. He appointed one of his disciples, Angad, to succeed him as the preceptor or guru, establishing a line of succession.
7. His teachings promoted equality among people regardless of caste or religion.
8. His ideas laid the foundation for the Sikh tradition that developed over subsequent generations.

Teacher's Note:
a) Remember the terms "nirguna bhakti", "shabad" and "sangat" for keyword marks.
b) Mention Guru Angad as his successor to show continuity of the tradition.

OR

(B) Explain the major beliefs and teachings of Chishtis during medieval India. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. The Chishtis were a group of Sufis who migrated to India in the late twelfth century and successfully adapted to the Indian environment and traditions.
2. The khanqah (hospice) was the centre of their social life, and Shaikh Nizamuddin appointed several spiritual successors to set up hospices elsewhere.
3. Pilgrimage to the tombs of Sufi saints, called Ziyarat, is prevalent all over the Muslim world, and most Chishtis visit the tomb of Khwaja Moinuddin at Ajmer.
4. Sultans like Ghiyasuddin Khalji and Akbar visited Ajmer several times, showing the political importance of Sufi shrines.
5. A part of Ziyarat is the use of music or Qawwali at the tomb to evoke devotion.
6. In the khanqah, there was an open kitchen called langar, run on futuh or unasked-for charity, and people from all walks of life were welcomed.
7. Chishtis practised bowing before the Shaikh, offered water to visitors, and shaved the heads of initiates as part of their rituals.
8. They practised yogic exercises and remembered God by reciting the zikr (Divine Names), evoking His presence through sama or spiritual music.

Teacher's Note:
a) Remember key terms: khanqah, Ziyarat, langar, futuh, zikr and sama.
b) Mention Khwaja Moinuddin's dargah at Ajmer as the most important example.

30. (A) Analyse the impact of national movement in India from 1915 to 1931 on the Indian masses. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. Gandhiji became the undisputed leader of the masses through major Satyagraha movements in Champaran, Kheda and Ahmedabad, which gained popular momentum for the idea of Satyagraha.
2. There was mass participation in the Rowlatt Satyagraha, followed by the Non-Cooperation Movement and later the Civil Disobedience Movement.
3. Participation increased from people of different regions and religious traditions, promoting both indigenous handicraft industries and Hindu-Muslim unity.
4. Khadi and the charkha became powerful symbols of the national movement among the masses, spreading ideas of self-reliance and Swadeshi.
5. Women participated on a large scale for the first time in significant numbers in the national struggle.
6. There was a widespread boycott of British goods and institutions, along with nonpayment of taxes by peasants in various regions.
7. Many people resigned en masse from British offices, educational institutions and government services as part of the movements.
8. Overall, these movements transformed the national struggle into a genuine mass movement involving all sections of Indian society.

Teacher's Note:
a) Mention specific movements - Champaran, Kheda, Rowlatt Satyagraha, Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience - in correct order.
b) Highlight Khadi and Swadeshi as symbols connecting the masses to the movement.

OR

(B) Analyse the role of Gandhiji after independence of India. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. Gandhiji was not present at the festivities in the capital on 15 August 1947, choosing instead to remain in Kolkata.
2. On that day, he spent the entire day fasting for 24 hours and did not attend any national function.
3. Gandhiji visited hospitals and refugee camps in Kolkata, consoling the people who had been distressed by the violence of Partition.
4. He appealed to Sikhs, Hindus and Muslims to forget the bitterness of the past and live together in harmony.
5. After helping bring peace to Bengal, he shifted his base to Delhi to continue his work for communal harmony.
6. In Delhi too, Gandhiji appealed to all communities to live peacefully together, working tirelessly for reconciliation.
7. His actions after independence reflected his lifelong commitment to non-violence and communal harmony over personal celebration.
8. His efforts became especially significant given the scale of Partition violence occurring in Punjab and Bengal at that time.

Teacher's Note:
a) Note that Gandhiji chose service in Kolkata over celebration in Delhi on Independence Day.
b) His fast and hospital visits show his priority for communal peace over political ceremony.

SECTION D

31. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

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

31.1 Analyse the possible reason behind the uniformity in the drainage systems across the Harappan cities. [1 Mark]

Answer: This uniformity likely resulted from advanced urban planning and engineering skills, possibly guided by some form of central authority overseeing city construction.

Teacher's Note:
a) Link uniformity to the debate on Harappan centralised authority.
b) One clear reason is enough for the single mark allotted.

31.2 Analyse the implications of finding little heaps of material, mostly sand, alongside drainage channels. [1 Mark]

Answer: This suggests that the Harappans had established regular maintenance practices for their drains, but the debris removed during cleaning was not always carted away completely.

Teacher's Note:
a) Use the exact phrase "not always carted away" from the source for a precise answer.
b) This shows both maintenance and its limitations.

31.3 Assess the impact of Harappan drainage system. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. The advanced drainage system suggests a highly organised society with strong emphasis on public health and cleanliness.
2. Since every house was connected to the network, it reflects an egalitarian approach to urban amenities, improving the quality of life by reducing waste-related health issues.

Teacher's Note:
a) Mention "organised society" and "egalitarian access" as key value points.
b) Connect sanitation to public health outcomes for full marks.

32. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

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

32.1 Mention any one prominent contribution of Bernier. [1 Mark]

Answer: Bernier wrote a book on India titled "Travels in the Mughal Empire", making a comparative study of the East and the West.

Teacher's Note:
a) Name the book title exactly for a complete answer.
b) Remember Bernier was a French traveller and physician.

32.2 How did Bernier describe the difference between European kingdom and the Mughal territories? [1 Mark]

Answer: Bernier described European kingdoms as well cultivated, rich, populous, polite and flourishing, in contrast to what he saw as the desolate and neglected state of Mughal territories.

Teacher's Note:
a) Use contrasting adjectives - flourishing versus desolate - to show clear comparison.
b) Note that Bernier's account reflects a Eurocentric bias.

32.3 Explain Bernier's views on the socio-economic status of people under Mughal rule. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Bernier believed the absence of private property in land prevented the emergence of a class of "improving" landlords, leading to uniform ruination of agriculture and continuous decline in living standards of all sections except the ruling aristocracy.
2. He argued that artisans had no incentive to improve the quality of their manufactures since profits were appropriated by the state, though a prosperous merchant community engaged in long-distance trade did exist.

Teacher's Note:
a) Mention "absence of private property in land" as Bernier's central argument.
b) Note that later historians have criticised Bernier's generalised and biased view.

33. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

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

33.1 How did Buchanan describe the view of the lower Rajmahal hills? [1 Mark]

Answer: Buchanan described the view as exceedingly fine, with narrow valleys of rice winding in all directions, cleared lands with scattered trees, and rocky hills in perfection.

Teacher's Note:
a) Use descriptive words like "exceedingly fine" directly from the source.
b) Note the mention of rice cultivation as a distinctive feature.

33.2 Why did Buchanan believe that the area had high potential for improved cultivation? [1 Mark]

Answer: Buchanan believed forest land could be cleared for cultivation and that the land was fertile and fit for agriculture, showing high potential for improvement.

Teacher's Note:
a) Focus on the phrase "highly susceptible" to improved cultivation from the source.
b) Link this to the colonial idea of "progress" in land use.

33.3 How did Buchanan propose utilising the land for economic benefits? [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. He proposed replacing woods with valuable plantations of Asan and Palas for Tassar silk and Lac production, and clearing forest land to bring it under cultivation.
2. Land unfit for cultivation could be used to rear Palmyra and Mahua trees, ensuring every type of land had an economic use.

Teacher's Note:
a) Name the specific plants - Asan, Palas, Palmyra, Mahua - for full marks.
b) Note this reflects colonial commercial interest in forest resources.

SECTION E

34. 34.1 On the given political outline map of India, locate and label the following with appropriate symbols:
(i) Kalibanga - a mature Harappan site [1 Mark]
(ii) Amravati - a Buddhist site [1 Mark]
(iii) (A) Amber - a territory under the Mughals [1 Mark]

[Figure: Outline political map of India with locations to be marked - Kalibanga in the north-west (Rajasthan), Amravati in the south-east (Andhra Pradesh), and Amber in Rajasthan.]

Answer:
(i) Kalibanga - located in Rajasthan (a mature Harappan site).
(ii) Amravati - located in Andhra Pradesh (a Buddhist site).
(iii) Amber - located near Jaipur, Rajasthan (a territory under the Mughals).

Teacher's Note:
a) Mark each location with a clear dot and label it neatly along the drawn line.
b) Double check state boundaries before marking to avoid losing marks for wrong placement.

OR

(iii) (B) Bijapur - An important town of Medieval India [1 Mark]

[Figure: Outline political map of India with Bijapur to be marked in Karnataka.]

Answer: Bijapur - located in Karnataka (an important town of Medieval India).

Teacher's Note:
a) Bijapur was the capital of the Bijapur Sultanate, one of the Deccan Sultanates.
b) Mark it in the northern part of Karnataka near the Maharashtra border.

34.2 On the same outline map, two places have been marked as A and B, as the centres of revolt of 1857. Identify them and write their names on the lines drawn near them. [2 Marks]

[Figure: The same outline map of India with point A marked near Delhi in the north and point B marked near Calcutta/Barrackpore in the east, with arrows pointing to their exact locations.]

Answer:
A - Delhi
B - Barrackpore (Calcutta region)

Teacher's Note:
a) Delhi was the symbolic centre where Bahadur Shah Zafar was proclaimed emperor by rebels in 1857.
b) Barrackpore was an important centre of unrest among sepoys in Bengal in 1857.

For Visually Impaired Candidates (in lieu of Q. 34)

34.1 Mention any one mature Harappan site in India. [1 Mark]

Answer: Kalibangan (any one mature Harappan site such as Kalibangan, Dholavira, or Banawali is acceptable).

Teacher's Note:
a) Remember a few key mature Harappan sites like Mohenjodaro, Kalibangan, and Dholavira.
b) Any one correctly named site earns full marks.

34.2 Mention any one Buddhist site in India. [1 Mark]

Answer: Amravati (any one Buddhist site such as Amravati, Sanchi, or Sarnath is acceptable).

Teacher's Note:
a) Sanchi and Sarnath are also commonly asked Buddhist sites to remember.
b) Ensure spelling of the site name is correct.

34.3 (A) Name any one territory under the Mughals. [1 Mark]

Answer: Amber (any one Mughal territory such as Amber, Agra, or Delhi is acceptable).

Teacher's Note:
a) Agra and Delhi were major Mughal centres and are safe answers.
b) Amber was ruled by the Rajput allies of the Mughals.

OR

(B) Name the capital of Vijayanagara empire. [1 Mark]

Answer: Hampi (Vijayanagara city).

Teacher's Note:
a) Hampi is located on the banks of the Tungabhadra river in Karnataka.
b) Remember Hampi's ruins were surveyed by Colonel Colin Mackenzie in 1800.

34.4 Write any two important centres of revolt of 1857. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Delhi
2. Kanpur (other acceptable centres include Lucknow, Jhansi, Meerut, Arrah and Barrackpore)

Teacher's Note:
a) Learn a list of at least five centres of the 1857 revolt for such questions.
b) Any two correctly named centres will earn full marks.

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