CBSE Class 12 History Question Paper 2025 Solved Code 61-1-2

SECTION A

1. 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 core area lies around Patna in Bihar, the seat of Mauryan power.
b) Gandhara in the northwest corresponds to modern Qandhar in Eastern Afghanistan.

2. 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 teaches that worldly existence is full of suffering and must be renounced, not that it is necessary for salvation.
b) Remember the core Jain triad: Karma theory, renunciation and Ahimsa.

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 social discontent and confusion caused by change to the spread of new religions.
b) In Assertion-Reason questions, check if the Reason logically explains the Assertion.

4. 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 a rare example of a woman inheriting power in ancient India.
b) Do not confuse her with Mauryan or Ashokan queens; she belongs to the Gupta-Vakataka period.

5. 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) The Harappan script remains undeciphered despite many attempts.
b) It had several hundred signs, so option (D) is incorrect.

6. 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) Terracotta plough models help historians infer Harappan agricultural technology.
b) Remember these two specific sites for questions on Harappan agriculture.

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 large rock-cut temple complex with multiple tiered towers (shikharas), pillared mandapas and carved gateways, all hewn out of a single mass of rock, set against a rocky hill background.]

Answer: (B) Kailashnatha Temple

Teacher's Note:
a) The Kailashnatha Temple at Ellora is the largest monolithic rock-cut temple in India.
b) It was carved by removing rock from top to bottom, unlike structural temples built block by block.

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 part of the Ellora caves complex in Maharashtra.
b) It was built during the Rashtrakuta period.

8. 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 on Vijayanagara actually came from a Kannada-speaking Brahmana, not Duarte Barbosa.
b) Remember him as the pioneer surveyor of the Hampi ruins.

9. 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) Match each traveller's nationality with their known travelogue on Vijayanagara.
b) Abdur Razzaq was a Persian ambassador who visited the Vijayanagara court.

10. 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 personal, direct bond with God without rituals or intermediaries.
b) This makes his teaching timeless and relevant to modern seekers of simple faith.

11. Which one of the following statements is most appropriate regarding the zamindars of 16th and 17th 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 peasants for revenue collection.
b) Their relationship with villagers was not always cordial, so avoid absolute statements.

12. Which of the following is a major source to understand agrarian history of 16th and 17th 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) The Ain-e-Akbari by Abul Fazl is the single most important chronicle for Mughal agrarian history.
b) It provides detailed information on revenue arrangements, crops and administration.

13. 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 aimed to give an objective account of Indian society, science and religion.
b) His work is valued for its comprehensiveness, not for criticism or religious promotion.

14. 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 accounts show his ability to adapt to and understand diverse societies.
b) His travelogue Rihla is a key source for medieval social and cultural history.

15. 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) Match each 1857 leader to their region of activity for quick recall.
b) Birjis Qadr was associated with Lucknow as the symbolic ruler of Awadh.

16. 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) Exploitation by zamindars, moneylenders and heavy revenue demand triggered the Santhal uprising.
b) Do not confuse this with the Permanent Settlement, which applied to Bengal zamindars.

17. 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 the Subsidiary Alliance, the British promised to protect Indian states in exchange for control of their armies and resources.
b) This policy expanded British influence without direct annexation initially.

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) Sequence: Jallianwala Bagh (1919) - Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931) - Quit India (1942) - Constituent Assembly (1946-1950).
b) Chronology questions need careful memorisation of key dates.

19. 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 India's first President.
b) Do not confuse him with Dr. Radhakrishnan, who was the first Vice President.

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 Power Committee, reflecting his central role in shaping India's federal structure.
b) Learn the names of key committees and their chairpersons for such matching questions.

21. 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 Sunset Law, Burdwan's Auction and Fifth Report are all directly connected to the Permanent Settlement in Bengal.
b) The Deccan Riots Commission relates to the Bombay Deccan, a different region and issue.

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 pillars across five major political centres of his empire.
2. Similar messages appear in inscriptions from the northwest to Odisha, showing his idea of Dhamma including respect for elders and kindness to slaves and servants.
3. The inscriptions mention officials like Pativedakas who reported directly to the king, revealing details of his administration.

Teacher's Note:
a) Mention the language variety - Prakrit, Greek and Kharoshthi - to show the empire's diversity.
b) Link inscriptions directly to administrative structure for full marks.

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 monasteries, along with contemporary texts like Kautilya's Arthashastra, provide administrative and economic details.
2. Accounts of foreign visitors like Megasthenes, and religious literature such as Buddhist and Jaina texts, add social and political information.
3. Ashoka's inscriptions, Puranic and Sanskrit literary works, and punch-marked coins together give a well-rounded picture of the empire.

Teacher's Note:
a) Group sources under archaeological, literary and epigraphic categories for clarity.
b) Naming specific texts like Arthashastra earns extra credit.

23. "Art historians had to acquire familiarity with Hagiographies of Buddha in order to understand Buddhist sculpture." Explain the statement in context of Sanchi Stupa. [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. Early sculptors avoided showing the Buddha in human form and instead depicted his presence through symbols such as an empty seat.
2. The stupa itself represents the Mahaparinibbana, while the wheel symbolises his first sermon at Sarnath.
3. To interpret such symbols correctly, historians had to understand the traditions and life events narrated in the hagiographies of the Buddha.

Teacher's Note:
a) Remember specific symbols: empty seat, wheel, tree and footprints.
b) Connect symbolic representation to the absence of human form of Buddha in early art.

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

Answer:
1. After Krishnadeva Raya's death, his successors faced rebellions from powerful Nayaka military chiefs.
2. Shifting alliances and military ambitions between Vijayanagara and the Deccan Sultanates weakened the empire's stability.
3. Rama Raya's defeat at the Battle of Talikota led to the destruction of the city of Vijayanagara.

Teacher's Note:
a) The Battle of Talikota (1565) is the key turning point to mention.
b) Internal rebellion combined with external military pressure caused the collapse.

OR

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

Answer:
1. The Amara-nayaka system, derived from the Iqta system of the Delhi Sultanate, gave military commanders territories to govern.
2. Nayakas collected taxes from peasants, artisans and traders, keeping part of the revenue for themselves and maintaining troops for the king.
3. They sent annual tributes and personally presented gifts at the royal court to display loyalty, integrating military and revenue administration.

Teacher's Note:
a) Highlight the link between Delhi Sultanate's Iqta and the Vijayanagara Amara-nayaka system.
b) Emphasise that this system combined military service with revenue collection.

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

Answer:
1. Panchayats, assemblies of village elders, took decisions binding on all members and used collected funds for community welfare.
2. They upheld caste boundaries, oversaw marriages in the presence of the headman, and had the authority to levy fines or expel offenders.
3. Gram and jati panchayats settled land disputes and received petitions from common people, including women, and the state generally respected their decisions.

Teacher's Note:
a) Stress that panchayats served as local self-governing bodies protecting community interests.
b) Mention that even the state respected panchayat verdicts, showing their authority.

26. Examine how art and literature have helped in keeping the memories of 1857 alive. [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. Leaders of the revolt, especially Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, were presented as heroic figures in poems like Subhadra Kumari Chauhan's "Khoob lari mardani".
2. Pictures depicted her in battle armour with a sword, riding a horse, symbolising resistance to injustice and alien rule.
3. In contrast, British art and depictions like "Relief of Lucknow" showed Indian rebels negatively while celebrating British victory.

Teacher's Note:
a) Contrast Indian nationalist portrayal with British colonial portrayal for balance.
b) Rani Lakshmibai's imagery is the most commonly asked example - remember it well.

27. Describe the views of Gandhiji on the national language of India. [3 Marks]

Answer:
1. Gandhiji believed everyone should speak a language that common people could easily understand.
2. He favoured Hindustani, a blend of Hindi and Urdu enriched by interaction of diverse cultures, incorporating words from many languages.
3. Since Hindustani was understood across regions, he felt this multi-cultural language could unify Hindus and Muslims.

Teacher's Note:
a) Remember the term "Hindustani" as Gandhiji's preferred composite language.
b) Link his language views to his larger vision of Hindu-Muslim unity.

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 formed part of larger kinship networks, but ideas of who counted as a relative varied across societies.
2. The Mahabharata describes a feud between cousins, the Kauravas and Pandavas, over land and power within a single ruling family.
3. The Pandavas' victory reinforced the ideal of patrilineal succession, where sons inherited resources including the throne.
4. Patriliny had variations: sometimes brothers succeeded one another, and in exceptional cases women like Prabhavati Gupta inherited property or thrones.
5. Brahmanas laid down codes of social behaviour, but these were not followed universally by all people or dynasties.
6. Eight different kinds of marriage existed, illustrated by examples like Draupadi's marriage and Bhima's marriage to Hidimba.
7. Not all ruling dynasties, such as the Satavahanas, followed Brahmanical gotra rules strictly.
8. Mothers held an important place in the family, though their advice, as with Kunti and Gandhari, was not always heeded, and respect was shaped by caste and gender hierarchy.

Teacher's Note:
a) Use the Kaurava-Pandava feud as the central example to anchor your answer.
b) Mention variations in patriliny and marriage practices to show depth.
c) Cite Prabhavati Gupta as an exception to strict patrilineal succession.

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. Dharmashastras and Dharmasutras prescribed that only Kshatriyas could be kings, but this rule was not followed universally.
2. Several ruling lineages had different social origins, showing that political power was open beyond birth-based Kshatriya status.
3. Buddhist texts describe the Mauryas as Kshatriyas, while Brahmanical texts call them of "low" origin, reflecting differing perspectives.
4. The Shungas and Kanvas, who succeeded the Mauryas, were Brahmanas by birth, not Kshatriyas.
5. The Shakas from Central Asia, though regarded as mlechchhas (outsiders), became powerful rulers and later adopted Sanskritic traditions.
6. The Satavahana dynasty claimed Brahmana status, with rulers like Gotami-puta Siri Satakani calling himself a unique Brahmana and destroyer of Kshatriya pride.
7. These examples show that anyone capable of mustering military support and resources could establish a ruling dynasty.
8. Thus, actual political power depended more on strength and alliances than on strict adherence to birth-based varna rules.

Teacher's Note:
a) Use Shungas, Kanvas, Shakas and Satavahanas as concrete examples of non-Kshatriya rulers.
b) Contrast textual prescription (Dharmashastras) with historical reality.
c) End by linking this to the broader idea that power followed resources, not birth alone.

29. (a) Explain the beliefs and teachings of Alvars and Nayanars during the Medieval India. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. The earliest bhakti movements, from about the sixth century, were led by Alvars, devotees of Vishnu, and Nayanars, devotees of Shiva.
2. They travelled from place to place singing hymns in Tamil in praise of their chosen deities.
3. They identified certain shrines as abodes of their gods, and their compositions became part of temple rituals at these sites.
4. They rejected the caste system and did not support Brahmanical dominance, attempting instead to reform the existing religious system.
5. Their followers came from diverse social backgrounds, including Brahmanas, artisans, cultivators, and even castes considered "untouchable".
6. Their compositions were regarded as being as important and sacred as the Vedas.
7. Women like Andal and Karaikkal Ammaiyar were also accommodated within these traditions and are remembered as important poet-saints.
8. Such women renounced social obligations without becoming nuns, and their existence challenged patriarchal norms of the time.

Teacher's Note:
a) Clearly distinguish Alvars (Vishnu devotees) from Nayanars (Shiva devotees).
b) Mention specific women saints like Andal to show inclusivity of the movement.
c) Emphasise their challenge to caste hierarchy and Brahmanical dominance.

OR

(b) Explain the teachings of Islam. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. Islam is founded on belief in one God, Allah, with Prophet Muhammad as His messenger.
2. Muslims are expected to offer prayers (namaz) five times a day as a core religious duty.
3. Giving alms to the poor (zakat) is an essential pillar to promote social welfare.
4. Fasting during the holy month of Ramzan (sawm) is observed as an act of self-discipline and devotion.
5. Performing the pilgrimage to Mecca (hajj) at least once, if possible, is a key obligation for believers.
6. Islam's teachings were not confined to the ruling elites but spread widely across the Indian subcontinent.
7. It found followers among diverse social groups such as peasants, artisans, warriors and merchants.
8. The Quran, as the holy book, guided both personal conduct and community life of the followers.

Teacher's Note:
a) List the Five Pillars of Islam clearly and in order for full marks.
b) Emphasise that Islam spread among common people, not just rulers.
c) Mention the Quran as the central religious text guiding the faith.

30. (a) "The Salt march was the movement that brought Gandhiji to the world attention." Analyse the statement. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. The British held a monopoly over salt production, forbidding Indians from making salt even for domestic use.
2. This monopoly was deeply unpopular, and Gandhiji decided to challenge it directly through a mass movement.
3. He announced his intention to lead a march to break the Salt Law, posing a bold challenge to British authority.
4. Lord Irwin initially failed to grasp the significance of this movement, underestimating its impact.
5. Gandhiji walked from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi, and the march was widely covered by the European and American press.
6. The American magazine Time, initially sceptical, mocked that Gandhiji would fail on the way.
7. As the march progressed and gathered massive popular support, Time began praising Gandhiji, and on reaching Dandi he broke the law by making salt.
8. The huge following made the British "desperately anxious," and Time hailed Gandhiji as a "Saint" and "Statesman," bringing him to world attention.

Teacher's Note:
a) Use the Time magazine's changing tone as strong evidence of growing global attention.
b) Mention the specific act of breaking the Salt Law at Dandi as the movement's climax.
c) Highlight British anxiety as proof of the march's political success.

OR

(b) "As a consequence of the Non-Cooperation Movement, the British Raj was shaken to its foundation, for the first time since the revolt of 1857." Analyse the statement. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. Gandhiji's earlier satyagrahas in Champaran, Kheda and Ahmedabad established him as a nationalist deeply sympathetic to the poor.
2. The nationwide campaign against the Rowlatt Act and the shock of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre created widespread anger against British rule.
3. In 1920, Gandhiji launched the Non-Cooperation Movement, integrating it with the Khilafat movement to unite Hindus and Muslims.
4. People boycotted British offices, courts and educational institutions; students left government schools and lawyers refused to attend courts.
5. Workers in many cities went on strike, hill tribes violated forest laws, and peasants refused to pay taxes or carry loads for officials.
6. Swadeshi became popular, and khadi along with the charkha emerged as powerful symbols of the national movement.
7. Gandhiji rose as an unquestioned national leader, and the movement served as a valuable training ground for self-rule.
8. Although the movement was withdrawn after the Chauri Chaura incident, it had already shaken the foundations of British authority in India.

Teacher's Note:
a) Mention the integration of Khilafat and Non-Cooperation as a unique feature of mass mobilisation.
b) List different social groups (students, lawyers, workers, peasants) to show its wide reach.
c) End with the Chauri Chaura incident as the reason for withdrawal, despite the movement's success.

SECTION D

31. 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.

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

Answer: Bernier wrote a detailed travelogue titled "Travels in the Mughal Empire," offering a comparative study of the East and the West.

Teacher's Note:
a) Remember Bernier as a French traveller and physician at the Mughal court.
b) His comparative perspective makes his account historically significant.

31.2 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 and flourishing, while he portrayed Mughal territories as desolate and neglected in comparison.

Teacher's Note:
a) Note that Bernier's view was subjective and often exaggerated to favour Europe.
b) His warning was meant to caution European kings against adopting the Mughal model.

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

Answer:
1. Bernier believed that the absence of private property in land prevented the rise of a class of improving landlords, leading to uniform ruination of agriculture and continuous decline in living standards, except for the ruling aristocracy.
2. He described common people as reduced to beggars and barbarians, while artisans lacked incentive to improve manufactures since profits were taken by the state, though a prosperous merchant community engaged in long-distance trade did exist.

Teacher's Note:
a) Mention both extremes - impoverished peasantry and a prosperous merchant class - for balance.
b) Bernier's account has been criticised by historians as one-sided and not fully accurate.

32. 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).

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

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

Teacher's Note:
a) Note the positive, admiring tone Buchanan used for the natural landscape.
b) He was a colonial surveyor documenting resources for potential economic use.

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

Answer: Buchanan believed forest land could easily be cleared for cultivation and that the land was fertile and well suited for agriculture.

Teacher's Note:
a) His assessment reflects the colonial desire to expand cultivable and revenue-generating land.
b) Fertility and clearable forest cover were key factors he noted.

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

Answer:
1. He proposed replacing ordinary woods with valuable plantations of Asan and Palas trees to support silk (tussar) and lac production.
2. He suggested clearing remaining forest for cultivation, while land unfit for farming could be used to grow palmyra and mahua trees.

Teacher's Note:
a) Mention specific plant names (Asan, Palas, palmyra, mahua) for full marks.
b) This shows how colonial officials linked forest clearance to commercial crop production.

33. Read the given source carefully and answer the questions given below:

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.

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

Answer: The uniformity likely resulted from advanced urban planning and engineering skills, possibly guided by a central authority overseeing construction standards.

Teacher's Note:
a) Link uniformity to the idea of centralised planning across Harappan settlements.
b) This is a debated point among historians and can also be linked to shared craft traditions.

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

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

Teacher's Note:
a) This detail highlights routine, ongoing maintenance rather than one-time construction.
b) It also reveals minor lapses in waste disposal practices.

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

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

Teacher's Note:
a) Emphasise "egalitarian access" as a key evaluative point examiners look for.
b) Connect sanitation infrastructure to overall public health outcomes.

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 on which Kalibanga, Amravati and Amber/Bijapur are to be marked and labelled with appropriate symbols.]

Answer: Kalibanga is located in Rajasthan (Hanumangarh district, on the banks of the now dried-up Ghaggar river). Amravati is located in Andhra Pradesh. Amber is located in Rajasthan, near Jaipur.

Teacher's Note:
a) Mark each location with a clear dot and label neatly to avoid losing marks for illegibility.
b) Double-check state boundaries before marking, as slightly wrong placement can cost marks.

OR

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

Answer: Bijapur is located in the state of Karnataka.

Teacher's Note:
a) Bijapur was an important Deccan Sultanate capital in medieval India.
b) Ensure the location marked matches present-day Karnataka on the map.

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: Outline political map of India with point A marked near the Delhi region in the north and point B marked near the Kolkata/Barrackpore region in the east.]

Answer: A is Delhi and B is Calcutta (Barrackpore), both important centres associated with the Revolt of 1857.

Teacher's Note:
a) Delhi was the symbolic centre where Bahadur Shah Zafar was declared emperor by the rebels.
b) Barrackpore, near Calcutta, was where Mangal Pandey's mutiny sparked the revolt in 1857.

Note: The following questions are for the Visually Impaired Candidates only in lieu of Question No. 34.

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

Answer: Kalibangan (in Rajasthan) is a mature Harappan site.

Teacher's Note:
a) Other acceptable examples include Dholavira, Banawali or Rakhigarhi.
b) Only one correctly named site is needed for full marks.

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

Answer: Amravati (in Andhra Pradesh) is a Buddhist site.

Teacher's Note:
a) Other acceptable examples include Sanchi or Sarnath.
b) Ensure correct spelling of the site name for full marks.

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

Answer: Amber (in Rajasthan) was a territory under the Mughals.

Teacher's Note:
a) Other Mughal territories such as Agra or Delhi are also acceptable.
b) Keep the answer to a single, clearly named place as required.

OR

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

Answer: Hampi (Vijayanagara) was the capital of the Vijayanagara empire.

Teacher's Note:
a) Vijayanagara city itself gave its name to the empire.
b) It is located on the banks of the Tungabhadra river in present-day Karnataka.

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

Answer: Two important centres of the Revolt of 1857 were Delhi and Kanpur (Barrackpore and Lucknow are also acceptable).

Teacher's Note:
a) Other valid centres include Jhansi, Lucknow, Arrah and Barrackpore.
b) Naming any two correct centres earns full marks.

Please click the link below to download pdf file of CBSE Class 12 History Question Paper 2025 Solved Code 61-1-2