GSEB Class 10 English Solutions Chapter 1 Against the Odds

GSEB Class 10 English Textbook Solutions Chapter 1 Against the Odds (Second Language)

GSEB Class 10 English Against the Odds Text Book Questions and Answers

1. Read about Dashrath Manjhi and answer the questions.

Dashrath Manjhi ran away from his home at a young age and worked at Dhanbad's coal mines. He returned to his village, took up work and married Falguni Devi. While crossing Gehlour hills to bring him lunch, Falguni slipped and seriously injured herself.

They could not reach her to the nearby hospital because there was no straight access to the town, which eventually led to her death. Manjhi was deeply disturbed, and that very night, he decided to carve a path through the Gehlour hills so that his village could have easier access to medical services.

He carved a path 360 feet long, 25 feet deep in places and 30 feet wide to form a road through the rocks in Gehlour hill. He quoted, “When I started hammering the hill, people called me a lunatic but that steeled determination.” He completed the work in 22 years (1960-1983).

This path reduced the distance between the Atri and Wazirganj sectors of the Gaya district from 55 km to 15 km. Later, Manjhi said, “Though most villagers taunted me at first, there were quite a few who lent me support later by giving me food and helping me buy my tools." For his achievement, Manjhi became popularly known as the 'Mountain Man'. His name was also proposed by the Bihar government for the Padma Shri award in 2006.

When a movie on his life was announced, Manjhi was on his death bed. He put his thumb impression on an agreement and gave away 'exclusive rights' to make a film on his life. The mountain man was given a state funeral by the Government of Bihar.

 

Question 1. Dashrath lost his wife. He was terribly disturbed. What would Manjhi have told himself that night
A. Cruel God took away my wife. Now I hate God.
B. I must do dharna against the government for pressing them to build a good road from Atri to Wazirgunj.
C. I myself will start making a road through hills, whatever odds I have to face.
D. I will unite the people of Atri and lead a procession to the authorities. Our demand will be: Give us road, give us life.
Answer: (C) I myself will start making a road through hills, whatever odds I have to face.
In simple words: Manjhi told himself he would create a path through the hills, no matter how difficult, because he was deeply upset by his wife's death and the lack of proper access.

Exam Tip: For passage-based questions, identify keywords in the question and scan the passage for direct or implied statements from the character.

 

Question 2. Are you moved and impressed by Dashrath's great deed? Write a message (30 words) in memory of this Mountain Man. You can begin like this:
Answer: Dear Dashrath! We salute you because even in a personal tragedy, you could think about the problems of other people. Your great achievement has helped many others. What a selfless service for society.
In simple words: We honor Dashrath. Despite his personal loss, he considered others' difficulties. His amazing work benefited many, showing true selflessness.

Exam Tip: When writing a tribute, highlight the character's virtues (like selflessness, perseverance) and the positive impact of their actions on others.

 

Question 3. What inspiration do we get from people like Manjhi ?
Answer: We should not wait for others to do good work; instead, we should do what our heart tells us. Manjhi's determination teaches us that if we commit to a goal with strong will, we can achieve even difficult things, no matter the challenges. He shows us to be selfless and work for the betterment of society, even in personal sorrow.
In simple words: Manjhi inspires us to act on our convictions without waiting for others. He teaches us that strong determination can conquer any obstacle, urging us to be selfless and help society.

Exam Tip: When discussing inspiration from a character, focus on their key traits (determination, selflessness) and how their actions offer a lesson for others.

2. How would you solve these problems with minimum help from others ?

 

Question 1. crossing a river
Answer: I would swim across the river or find a wooden log and float across on it.
In simple words: To cross a river alone, I would swim or use a log to float over.

Exam Tip: For practical problem-solving questions, offer direct and simple solutions that align with the "minimum help" constraint.

 

Question 2. carrying your heavy friend to a hospital
Answer: I would call an ambulance.
In simple words: I would phone for an ambulance.

Exam Tip: Prioritize safety and efficiency. In emergencies, professional help is often the most sensible "minimum help" approach.

 

Question 3. staying for one rainy night in the forest
Answer: I would look for a shady tree or a hollow in a tree or a cave.
In simple words: I would search for shelter under a big tree or inside a cave to stay dry.

Exam Tip: Consider basic survival needs (shelter) and readily available natural resources in a forest setting.

 

Question 4. creating support for a very poor student
Answer: I would use my pocket money first and then ask my friends for help in the form of books, uniform, etc.
In simple words: I would first use my own money, then ask friends to donate books or uniforms.

Exam Tip: Emphasize personal initiative first, followed by seeking support from immediate peers, making the solution practical and empathetic.

Vocabulary

1. In the group of four words, two words are either synonyms or antonyms. Circle these words, then circle S if they are synonyms and A if they are antonyms.

 

2. Fill in the blanks with the correct forms of the words in the bold print.

Example : decide

A. We must come to a decision very soon as we are running short of time.

B. We beat them decisively. We won 7 :0.

C. Manan can never make up his mind. He is very indecisive.

 

Question 2. (1) reside
Answer:
A. Mr P. G. Pathak is a resident of Shastrinagar area.
B. The police inquired of his residency in Delhi.
C. You can't have a ration card of this city as you are a non-resident of this city.
In simple words: This section shows how "reside" changes forms, like "resident" for a person, "residency" for a place, and "non-resident" for someone living elsewhere.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to suffixes and prefixes that change a word's part of speech (e.g., -ent for noun, -ency for state) while maintaining its root meaning.

 

Question 2. (2) strong
Answer:
A. You must strengthen your body to face such hardships as you are going to join our army next month.
B. The inner strength of our father of the nation, Gandhiji, made the British quit India.
C. Bhim gave such a strong blow of his mace on Duryodhan's thigh that he was injured.
In simple words: This part demonstrates forms of "strong," like "strengthen" for making something strong and "strength" as the quality of being strong.

Exam Tip: Recognize how verbs are formed from adjectives (e.g., strong -> strengthen) and how nouns represent the quality itself.

 

Question 2. (3) construct
Answer:
A. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar is one of the constructors of the constitution of our country.
B. Students should be given constructive education rather than theoretical.
C. The construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1632 by Shah Jahan at Agra.
In simple words: Here, forms of "construct" are used, such as "constructors" for people who build, "constructive" for useful ideas, and "construction" for the process of building.

Exam Tip: Understand how different suffixes (-or, -ive, -ion) alter the grammatical function of a word, allowing it to act as a noun (person), adjective, or noun (action).

 

Question 2. (4) power
Answer:
A. Our government is trying its best for women empowerment in every walk of life.
B. Don't you think that India needs some powerful leaders like Sardar Patel nowadays ?
C. The new law of RTI empowers us to get any information.
In simple words: This section shows variations of "power," using "empowerment" for giving power, "powerful" for someone with power, and "empowers" as the verb to give power.

Exam Tip: Observe how words like "power" can transform into nouns describing a state (empowerment), adjectives (powerful), and verbs (empowers).

 

Now make different forms of the words and use them in your own sentences. You may take help of a dictionary or your teacher.

 

Question. (1) inform
Answer:
A. Do you have any information about the exam dates ?
B. There are very few informative channels on TV.
C. Have you informed your parents of the picnic ?
In simple words: This shows "inform" as a verb, "information" as a noun, and "informative" as an adjective, all related to giving or receiving knowledge.

Exam Tip: Practice using the noun, adjective, and verb forms of common words to expand your vocabulary and sentence structure.

 

Question. (2) direct
Answer:
A. In which direction is the wind blowing ?
B. The principal has written all the directives in the book.
C. Can you help me to change this sentence into the indirect speech ?
In simple words: This demonstrates how "direct" can be used as "direction" for a path, "directives" for instructions, and "indirect speech" for reporting what someone said.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to how prefixes (like 'in-' for indirect) and suffixes (-ion, -ives) change a word's meaning or grammatical role.

 

Question. (3) beauty
Answer:
A. This is a beautiful picture.
B. How can you beautify this house ?
C. Neha sings so beautifully!
In simple words: This illustrates "beauty" as a noun, "beautiful" as an adjective, "beautify" as a verb, and "beautifully" as an adverb, all showing attractiveness.

Exam Tip: Note how different suffixes (-ful, -ify, -ly) transform a word into an adjective, verb, or adverb, allowing for varied descriptions.

 

3. Complete the sentences selecting the proper words from the brackets.

 

Question 3. (1) Aarzu wanted a job of an officer. So she applied for the job. (applied / worked)
Answer: Aarzu wanted a job of an officer. So she applied for the job.
In simple words: Aarzu wanted an officer's job, so she put in her application for it.

Exam Tip: Choose the word that logically completes the action in the sentence. "Applied" fits the context of seeking a job.

 

Question 3. (2) Our society pooled in ₹ 3,50,000 for the relief fund, (pooled in /gave)
Answer: Our society pooled in Rs. 3,50,000 for the relief fund.
In simple words: Our community gathered Rs. 3,50,000 to create a relief fund.

Exam Tip: "Pooled in" implies collecting contributions from many sources, which is suitable for a society raising funds.

 

Question 3. (3) Aanandnagar has no electricity, so the GEB is going to establish mini grids there. (mini greed/mini grids)
Answer: Aanandnagar has no electricity, so the GEB is going to establish mini grids there.
In simple words: Since Aanandnagar lacks power, the GEB will set up small power networks.

Exam Tip: "Mini-grids" refers to small-scale power distribution systems, which is the correct term in this technical context.

 

Question 3. (4) The Loksansar launched a new scheme of flats, (declared /launched)
Answer: The Loksansar launched a new scheme of flats.
In simple words: The Loksansar introduced a new housing plan with flats.

Exam Tip: "Launched" is the appropriate verb for introducing a new project or scheme.

 

4. Make meaningful sentences placing the proper words at the proper places.

 

Question 4. (1) The people of Bhavnagar have raised the demand for Bhavnagar – Tarapur railway line for many years, (increased / raised)
Answer: The people of Bhavnagar have raised the demand for Bhavnagar – Tarapur railway line for many years.
In simple words: For a long time, Bhavnagar residents have requested a railway line between Bhavnagar and Tarapur.

Exam Tip: "Raised" is the correct verb to use when talking about making a demand or issue known.

 

Question 4. (2) Our government has started a scheme of giving LED bulbs to the needy people. (CFL/LED)
Answer: Our government has started a scheme of giving LED bulbs to the needy people.
In simple words: The government has begun a program to provide LED light bulbs to those who need them.

Exam Tip: Choose the option that is current and relevant. LED bulbs are a modern and energy-efficient lighting solution.

 

Question 4. (3) Very soon the Gujarat Government will recruit about 45,000 persons in various administrative departments. (will give/will recruit)
Answer: Very soon the Gujarat Government will recruit about 45,000 persons in various administrative departments.
In simple words: Soon, the Gujarat Government plans to hire around 45,000 people for its various offices.

Exam Tip: "Recruit" is the correct term for hiring new staff, especially in government or large organizations.

 

Question 4. (4) In Gujarat, we face the scorching heat of the sun during May and June. (scorching heat of/strong heat of)
Answer: In Gujarat, we face the scorching heat of the sun during May and June.
In simple words: In May and June, Gujarat experiences the sun's extremely hot rays.

Exam Tip: "Scorching heat" is a strong idiom that perfectly conveys the intensity of summer heat, making it the more suitable choice.

 

5. Write True [T] or False [F] If false, correct them.

Example : Aarzu won the election of the village. She was elected as a Talati. [False]

Aarzu won the election of the village. She was elected as the sarpanch.

 

Question 5. (1) We visited Ghogha last week because we wanted to launch a new project. [True]
Answer: True
In simple words: The statement is correct; we visited Ghogha recently to begin a new plan.

Exam Tip: For True/False questions, quickly confirm each fact in the statement against the passage. If all parts are accurate, it's True.

 

Question 5. (2) There are lunar panels in our village. [False] There are solar panels in our village.
Answer: False. There are solar panels in our village.
In simple words: This statement is false because our village has sun-powered panels, not moon-powered ones.

Exam Tip: Be precise with terminology. "Lunar" refers to the moon, while "solar" refers to the sun. Accuracy is crucial for scientific terms.

 

Question 5. (3) Solar Power is a smokefull source of light. [False] Solar Power is a smokeless source of light,
Answer: False. Solar Power is a smokeless source of light.
In simple words: This statement is incorrect; solar power is a clean energy source that does not produce smoke.

Exam Tip: Recall the environmental benefits of solar energy. It's known for being clean and producing no emissions.

 

Question 5. (4) In recent times most people use florescent lamps to save electricity. [False] In recent times most people use LED lamps to save electricity.
Answer: False. In recent times most people use LED lamps to save electricity.
In simple words: This statement is wrong; currently, most people use LED lights, not fluorescent ones, to conserve power.

Exam Tip: Stay updated on common knowledge about energy-efficient technologies. LEDs are widely recognized for saving electricity over fluorescent lamps.

 

Question 5. (5) Most of our women squander their time in watching TV serials or family drama. [True]
Answer: True
In simple words: It is true that many women spend their time watching TV shows or family plays.

Exam Tip: If the statement describes a common or observed behavior from the text or general context, it's likely to be true unless explicitly contradicted.

 

Question 5. (6) They have (design) signed the contract, so it's a bit late to change their minds now.
Answer: They have signed the contract, so it's a bit late to change their minds now.
In simple words: Because they already signed the agreement, it's now too late to change their decision.

Exam Tip: "Signed" is the past participle needed here to correctly complete the present perfect tense structure.

 

6. Rearrange the order of the letters of the words in the brackets to make the sentences meaningful.

word anagrams: same letters different words

silent - listen

Example: Your knowledge of computer is a big seats (asset).

 

Question 6. (1) The (metalic) climate of this region is humid, so being an asthma patient you can't stay here.
Answer: The climatic climate of this region is humid, so being an asthma patient you can't stay here.
In simple words: This area's humid weather makes it hard for asthma patients to live here.

Exam Tip: Carefully unscramble the letters to find the correct word that fits the sentence's context. "Climatic" relates to climate.

 

Question 6. (2) Dr Batra's (unclose) counsel to Astha for her choosing a career proved fruitful.
Answer: Dr Batra's counsel to Astha for her choosing a career proved fruitful.
In simple words: Dr. Batra's advice to Astha about choosing her job worked very well.

Exam Tip: "Counsel" refers to advice or guidance, which is appropriate when discussing career choices.

 

Question 6. (3) It was Dashrath's (density) destiny. that he would die when none of his sons was present there.
Answer: It was Dashrath's destiny that he would die when none of his sons was present there.
In simple words: It was Dashrath's fate to pass away when his sons were not with him.

Exam Tip: "Destiny" means fate or a predetermined course of events, which fits the tone of the sentence.

 

Question 6. (4) Mr Khan is a (inserted) resident of this society, so he must pay the maintenance charges.
Answer: Mr Khan is a resident of this society, so he must pay the maintenance charges.
In simple words: Mr. Khan lives in this community, so he has to pay the fees to keep it running.

Exam Tip: "Resident" is the correct term for someone who lives in a particular place or community.

 

Question 6. (5) Brinda's (reside) desire to educate her daughter in an English medium school was fulfilled as they shifted to Vadodara from a small village.
Answer: Brinda's desire to educate her daughter in an English medium school was fulfilled as they shifted to Vadodara from a small village.
In simple words: Brinda's wish to send her daughter to an English school came true after they moved from their small village to Vadodara.

Exam Tip: "Desire" means a strong wish, which correctly describes Brinda's goal for her daughter's education.

 

Question 6. (6) They have (design) signed the contract, so it's a bit late to change their minds now.
Answer: They have signed the contract, so it's a bit late to change their minds now.
In simple words: Since the contract is already signed, it's too late for them to alter their decision.

Exam Tip: "Signed" is the past participle of "to sign" and correctly completes the present perfect tense, indicating a completed action with present relevance.

 

7. Select the proper words and fill in the blanks to make meaningful -ar,

(contribute, brilliant, pooled in, dispute, finally, empowering, issue, lobbied, provide, formulate, poverty)

 

Question 7. Sudha Murthy found that Hanumanthppa was a brilliant boy. But unfortunately, he was not able to study further because of his poverty. She wanted to contribute in his study. She talked about this issue in her staff and they pooled in one lakh rupees. They had a little dispute over the course of his choice. Finally, the issue was resolved by empowering a senior colleague to take decision.
Answer: Sudha Murthy found that Hanumanthppa was a brilliant boy. But unfortunately, he was not able to study further because of his poverty. She wanted to contribute to his study. She talked about this issue with her staff and they pooled in one lakh rupees. They had a little dispute over the course of his choice. Finally, the issue was resolved by empowering a senior colleague to take a decision.
In simple words: Sudha Murthy found a bright boy, Hanumanthppa, but his lack of money stopped his studies. She decided to help, discussing the problem with her staff, who then collected one lakh rupees. A small disagreement over his study path was settled by letting a senior colleague make the final choice.

Exam Tip: Read the entire passage first to grasp the context. Then, fill in each blank with the word from the list that makes the most sense grammatically and semantically.

 

Comprehension

1. Say whether the statements are True or False. If false, correct them.

 

Question 1. (1) The Government funded twenty-one lakh rupees to build the railway station – False The people of the village pooled in twenty one lakh rupees to build a railway station on their own.
Answer: False. The people of the village pooled in twenty-one lakh rupees to build a railway station on their own.
In simple words: This is false; the villagers themselves gathered the Rs. 21 lakh to build their own railway station, not the government.

Exam Tip: Clearly state "False" and then provide the accurate information from the passage to correct the statement.

 

Question 1. (2) Majority of people living in Taj Nagar are businessmen – False Majority of people living in Taj Nagar are farmers.
Answer: False. Majority of people living in Taj Nagar are farmers.
In simple words: This is false; most people in Taj Nagar are farmers, not business owners.

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to details about demographics or occupations mentioned in the text.

 

Question 1. (3) Ranjit Singh is the sarpanch of Taj Nagar village – False Ranjit Singh is the former sarpanch of Taj Nagar village.
Answer: False. Ranjit Singh is the former sarpanch of Taj Nagar village.
In simple words: This is false; Ranjit Singh used to be the sarpanch of Taj Nagar, but he isn't currently.

Exam Tip: Note qualifiers like "former" when identifying roles or positions. This indicates a past status, not a current one.

 

Question 1. (4) Azaz, an electrician, was given the job of a technician – True'
Answer: True
In simple words: This statement is correct; Azaz, an electrician, was employed as a technician.

Exam Tip: Verify if the roles and job descriptions align with the information provided in the passage.

 

Question 1. (5) Out of thousand members of the library, three hundred are women.- True
Answer: True
In simple words: It is true that 300 out of the library's 1000 members are women.

Exam Tip: Confirm numerical facts directly from the text to determine the truthfulness of the statement.

 

Question 1. (6) The library arranged seminars to solve the family problems of women.- False The library arranged workshops in home economics, gardening, child care, arts, and to help women to manage family conflicts, legal disputes and professional problems.
Answer: False. The library arranged workshops in home economics, gardening, child care, arts, and to help women to manage family conflicts, legal disputes and professional problems.
In simple words: This is false; the library organized practical workshops, not just seminars, to assist women with various issues like family problems and legal matters.

Exam Tip: Distinguish between similar but distinct activities like "seminars" and "workshops" as they imply different types of engagement and content.

 

Question 1. (7) Separate reading room for women was set up to give them safe space. – True
Answer: True
In simple words: It is correct that a special reading area was created for women to ensure their safety and comfort.

Exam Tip: Look for information in the passage about the specific purpose or benefit of a particular initiative, like a safe space for women.

 

2. Tick mark the most appropriate option.

 

Question 2. Question 1. The wish of the villagers was to...
A. collect fund for a railway station.
B. renovate the railway station.
C. build a railway station.
D. ask the authority for a railway station.
Answer: (C) build a railway station.
In simple words: The villagers' main goal was to construct a railway station.

Exam Tip: Identify the core objective of the villagers mentioned in the passage, which was to have a functional railway station.

 

Question 2. Question 2. The railway authorities refused for a railway station because there was ...
A. lack of funds.
B. no tracks.
C. no need.
D. no staff.
Answer: (A) lack of funds.
In simple words: The railway officials denied the request for a station because they did not have enough money.

Exam Tip: Look for the explicit reason given in the text for the authorities' refusal.

 

Question 2. Question 3. What is the source of smokeless light ?
A. kerosene
B. electricity
C. solar power
D. thermal power
Answer: (C) solar power
In simple words: Solar power gives off light without creating any smoke.

Exam Tip: From the passage, identify the type of energy source that is clean and does not produce smoke.

 

Question 2. Question 4. Palakkad's library is unique for its ...
A. women members.
B. cultural activities.
C. strength and unity of members.
D. social reforms.
Answer: (A) women members.
In simple words: Palakkad's library is special because of its large number of female members.

Exam Tip: Look for specific details mentioned in the text that highlight what makes the library different or exceptional.

 

Question 2. Question 5. The library set up a separate reading room for women because ...
A. there were only male members.
B. the women could feel safe.
C. the women could not waste time.
D. the women could come at night.
Answer: (B) the women could feel safe.
In simple words: A special reading area for women was established so they could feel secure.

Exam Tip: The passage explicitly states that the reading room was to provide a "safe space" for women.

 

Question 2. Question 6. The solar panels are installed ...
A. on the tall buildings of the village,
B. on the roof of a strong-walled house.
C. on the top of every house in the village.
D. on the tall towers raised in the villages.
Answer: (B) on the roof of a strong-walled house.
In simple words: The solar panels are placed on the rooftops of sturdy, well-built homes.

Exam Tip: Recall the specific location mentioned in the text where solar panels are installed to maximize sunlight capture.

 

3. Correct the text by replacing the underlined words with the words from the brackets.

 

Question 3. Most of the three thousand people leaving in the village are merchants. But such was the willing desire to have a station in the village, everybody contributed according to their limitation. Ranging from three thousand I rupees to seventy-five thousand rupees, they – borrowed money for the station and we started the renovation in January 2008.” said Ranjit Singh, a former village sarpanch.
Answer: Most of the three thousand people living in the village are farmers. But such was the burning desire to have a station in the village, everybody contributed according to their capacity. Ranging from three thousand rupees to seventy-five thousand rupees, they donated money for the station and we started the construction in January 2008,” said Ranjit Singh, a former village sarpanch.
In simple words: Most of the three thousand residents in the village are agricultural workers. But their strong wish for a station made everyone give money based on what they could afford. They gave between three thousand and seventy-five thousand rupees for the station, and building began in January 2008, as a former village head shared.

Exam Tip: Read each sentence carefully to understand its context. Choose the word from the bracket that best fits the meaning of the sentence and corrects the error in the underlined word.

 

4. Match the sentences from the text with the paraphrased sentences. Write the number in the brackets.

 

5. Read the sentences in A and relate them with the questions in B. One is done for you.

 

6. Answer these questions.

 

Question 1. How long did the people of Taj Nagar; try to persuade the railway authorities for a railway station?
Answer: The people of Taj Nagar tried to persuade the railway authorities for twenty-five years for a railway station.
In simple words: The residents of Taj Nagar spent twenty-five years attempting to convince railway officials to build a station.

Exam Tip: Extract the specific time duration mentioned in the text regarding the villagers' efforts.

 

Question 2. Where did the villagers have to go to board a train ?
Answer: The villagers had to go to Gurugram, Delhi and Rewar to board a train.
In simple words: To catch a train, the villagers needed to travel to Gurugram, Delhi, or Rewar.

Exam Tip: List all locations mentioned in the passage where villagers had to travel to access train services.

 

Question 3. What is the main problem in rural Uttar Pradesh ? :
Answer: The main problem in Uttar Pradesh is that more than 60 % of the houses are without power.
In simple words: The biggest issue in rural Uttar Pradesh is that over 60% of homes do not have electricity.

Exam Tip: Identify the most prominent issue highlighted in the text concerning rural Uttar Pradesh, often indicated by statistics.

 

Question 4. In just one year's time, what has MGP achieved in Sitapur district ?
Answer: In just one year's time, the MGP has connected more than 3,500 customers to solar power mini-grids at the village level.
In simple words: Within a single year, MGP successfully linked over 3,500 households in Sitapur district to small solar power networks.

Exam Tip: Specify the time frame and the key achievement (number of customers, type of service) of the organization mentioned.

 

Question 5. What is the main advantage of the solar light, according to a village farmer?
Answer: According to a village farmer, the main advantage of solar light is that it saves the environment because there is no pollution.
In simple words: A farmer said solar light is good because it helps protect the environment by causing no pollution.

Exam Tip: Attribute the advantage specifically to the person or group mentioned (e.g., "according to a village farmer") and state the core benefit.

 

Question 6. For what can people use Palakkad's District Library ?
Answer: People can use Palakkad's District Library for information, knowledge, wisdom, cultural activities, research and reference.
In simple words: Palakkad's District Library is used for getting facts, gaining knowledge, cultural events, academic investigations, and finding data.

Exam Tip: List the various services or resources offered by the library as described in the passage.

 

Question 7. Why did the women unit get together ?
Answer: The women unit got together to discuss methods of empowering women.
In simple words: The women's group met to talk about ways to strengthen women's independence.

Exam Tip: Focus on the primary purpose of the gathering. Here, it's explicitly stated as discussing empowerment methods.

 

Question 8. What did the Library open its halls for ?
Answer: The library opened its halls for film screening, workshops in home economics or gardening, child care or the arts, and for women to get help in managing family conflicts, legal disputes and professional problems.
In simple words: The library's rooms were opened for showing movies, holding workshops on household management, gardening, childcare, or creative arts, and assisting women with family issues, legal disagreements, and job-related difficulties.

Exam Tip: Enumerate the diverse activities and support services the library offered in its halls.

 

Question 9. What does the Palakkad's Library stand as ?
Answer: Palakkad's district library stands tall as a beacon to encourage women's empowerment through classes, clubs, workshops and reading rooms.
In simple words: Palakkad's district library acts as a guiding light, promoting women's progress through educational sessions, groups, practical training, and reading areas.

Exam Tip: Describe the symbolic role of the library, emphasizing its purpose in promoting women's development.

 

7. Answer these questions in two or three sentences each.

 

Question 1. What was the burning desire of the people of Taj Nagar ? What did they do for it?
Answer: The burning desire of the people of Taj Nagar was to have a railway station in their village. To achieve this, everyone in the village contributed according to their capacity and collected twenty-one lakh rupees.
In simple words: Taj Nagar residents really wanted a train station in their village. To get one, everyone gave money based on what they could afford, raising twenty-one lakh rupees.

Exam Tip: Clearly state the primary desire and then describe the collective action taken by the community to fulfill it, including the financial effort.

 

Question 2. Why did people raise their demand for a railway station in their village ? How did the authorities respond?
Answer: The people of the village had to either go to Halimandi or Patli to catch a train. Both these stations were six kilometres away from Taj Nagar. The railway lines also passed through the village, so the people demanded a station there. The authorities said that they did not have funds.
In simple words: Villagers demanded a station because existing ones were 6 km away, and train tracks already ran through Taj Nagar. However, authorities refused, citing a lack of money.

Exam Tip: Explain both the reasons for the demand (distance, existing tracks) and the specific response from the authorities (lack of funds).

 

Question 3. What is MGP, an NGO, doing in Sitapur district ? Why ?
Answer: An NGO called MGP is building a network of low cost solar micro-grids that provide two LED lights and a mobile charging point to all paying households at a cost of twenty-five rupees per week.
In simple words: MGP, a non-profit, is creating affordable solar micro-grids in Sitapur. These give two LED lights and a phone charging spot to homes for Rs. 25 weekly.

Exam Tip: Describe the organization's name, its specific project (solar micro-grids), the services it provides (lights, charging), and the cost, as mentioned in the passage.

 

Question 4. How were the panels installed ?
Answer: The roof of a sturdy, brick-walled house in each village was chosen to install the panels and the battery. The panels are installed in a southerly direction to capture as much sunlight as possible.
In simple words: Panels and batteries were placed on the roofs of strong, brick homes. They were set facing south to collect the most sunlight.

Exam Tip: Include details about the type of structure used for installation and the specific orientation chosen for optimal performance.

 

Question 5. How have solar micro-grids helped the village people?
Answer: Due to solar micro-grids, there is no pollution, so the environment is also saved. Besides this, new businesses have also emerged in the villages. Children study more and women enjoy cooking in light.
In simple words: Solar micro-grids prevent pollution, protecting the environment. They have also brought new businesses, allowed children to study longer, and made cooking easier for women in well-lit homes.

Exam Tip: List the various benefits (environmental, economic, social, educational) that the solar micro-grids brought to the villagers.

 

Question 6. What did the secretary of the library point out ?
Answer: The secretary of the library pointed out that through reading, women would realize their own strength and forge a unity.
In simple words: The library's secretary highlighted that reading would help women understand their own power and create a sense of togetherness.

Exam Tip: Identify the specific insight or observation made by the library secretary regarding the impact of reading on women.

 

Question 7. What did the library do for women ?
Answer: The library launched a women's unit in February 2014. The unit formulated plans on opening separate reading rooms for women. It encouraged women's empowerment through classes, clubs, workshops and reading rooms.
In simple words: In February 2014, the library created a women's group that planned separate reading areas for women. It promoted women's advancement through various programs like classes, clubs, workshops, and reading facilities.

Exam Tip: Detail the specific actions and initiatives undertaken by the library and its women's unit to support female empowerment.

 

8. Write short notes using the points given in the brackets.

 

Question 8. Question 1. Palakkad's District Library (established – a centre for various activities -women's unit – hall – safe venue for women a beacon of women's empowerment)
Answer: The Palakkad District Public Library was established in September 2013. It functions as a center for information, knowledge, wisdom, cultural activities, research, and reference. A third of its thousand members are women. In February 2014, the library launched a women's unit, which came together to discuss methods of empowering women. The library opened its halls for film screenings, workshops in home economics or gardening, child care or the arts, and to help women manage family conflicts, legal disputes, and professional problems. It encourages women's empowerment through classes, clubs, workshops, and reading rooms.
In simple words: Established in September 2013, Palakkad's District Library serves as a hub for knowledge, culture, and research, with women forming a third of its members. In 2014, it launched a women's unit to promote empowerment, offering film screenings, workshops on various life skills, and support for managing conflicts, aiming to be a guiding light for women.

Exam Tip: When writing a short note, ensure you cover all the provided points in a coherent and structured paragraph. Begin with its establishment and move on to its functions and impact.

 

Question 8. Question 2. Dream of railway station come true (need for a railway station – efforts of village people of Taj Nagar – funds collected determination – struggle – dream came true)
Answer: There was a large number of people and students in Taj Nagar who had to go to Gurugram, Delhi, and Rewar to catch a train. They had to either go to Halimandi or Patli to catch a train, both stations being six kilometres away. The railway lines passed through the village, so the people demanded a railway station there in 1982. However, the railways refused, stating they did not have funds. As a result, the villagers decided to build a station themselves. Everybody contributed according to their capacity, ranging from three thousand rupees to seventy-five thousand rupees. They pooled in twenty-one lakh rupees and built a railway station on their own. Their dream came true on 7 January 2010.
In simple words: Taj Nagar residents, including many students, faced long commutes to Gurugram, Delhi, and Rewar to catch trains from stations 6 km away. Despite railway lines crossing their village, authorities denied a station in 1982 due to a lack of funds. Determined, villagers decided to build it themselves, pooling Rs. 21 lakh through contributions ranging from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 75,000. Their dream of a local railway station came true on January 7, 2010.

Exam Tip: Organize the points chronologically, starting with the problem, then detailing the villagers' actions, the challenges faced, and the eventual successful outcome, including key dates and figures.

Language Practice

1. Read the paragraph about Saputara and answer the questions.

Saputara, which is on a plateau of Western Ghats (Sahyadri range), is a famous hill station in the Dang district of Gujarat. It is situated at an altitude of about 900 metres above sea level. It is 156 km. from Surat and 248 km. from Mumbai. The hill station is near Gujarat-Maharashtra border which is only 4 km. from the town. It is surrounded by rocky terrains and thick forests that house precious bio-diversity. Saputara is amazingly different in monsoon from summer. The monsoon season offers a different experience with fog and clouds dispersed all over the hills. The waterfalls become mighty and everything becomes soothing green. Mornings and evenings become more beautiful. A walk in the morning or in the evening is a rewarding experience. To attract more tourists, Gujarat Tourism Corporation organizes Monsoon Festival every year in the month of August. Different programmes are organized during the monsoon festival. One can enjoy water sports, heritage walk and other rides in the evening. The cultural programmes that start in the evening last till midnight.

Questions:

 

Question 1. Where is Saputara located ? (Location)
Answer: Saputara is located in the Dang district of Gujarat.
In simple words: Saputara can be found in the Dang district of Gujarat.

Exam Tip: For location-based questions, simply state the place and its administrative or geographical context.

 

Question 2. What is the altitude of the hill station ? (Location)
Answer: It is situated at an altitude of about 900 metres above the sea level.
In simple words: This hill station is about 900 meters higher than the sea.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to specific numerical data mentioned in the passage, such as altitudes or distances.

 

Question 3. How far is the hill station from Surat ? (Location)
Answer: The hill station is 156 km. from Surat.
In simple words: The hill station is 156 kilometers away from Surat.

Exam Tip: Note down key distances or geographical relationships as you read the passage to answer quickly.

 

Question 4. What is the atmosphere in monsoon like ? (Describing)
Answer: During monsoon, fog and clouds spread across all the hills. The waterfalls grow powerful, and the surroundings become a soothing green.
In simple words: In the rainy season, the hills are covered with fog and clouds, and the waterfalls are strong while everything turns green.

Exam Tip: When asked to describe, use adjectives and sensory details provided in the passage.

 

Question 5. When is the Monsoon Festival organized ? (Time)
Answer: The Monsoon Festival is organized every year in the month of August.
In simple words: The Monsoon Festival takes place annually in August.

Exam Tip: Look for explicit time references like specific months or frequencies (e.g., 'every year').

 

Question 6. What are the main attractions of the Monsoon Festival ? (Describing)
Answer: There are different programmes like water sports, heritage walk and other rides in the evening. The cultural programmes that start in the evening last till midnight.
In simple words: The festival offers water sports, heritage walks, evening rides, and cultural shows that continue until midnight.

Exam Tip: List all relevant activities and features mentioned in the passage when asked for attractions or details.

 

2. Read the passage about a robbery carefully. The underlined words are misplaced. Put them in the right places and read it again.

There was a phone call in the morning at 9:30 informing about robbery in a bank situated on the S. P. Road. The robbers took away 5 lakh from the box which was kept in the strong room of the bank. When we were trying to figure out who would have done it, there was one more call between 9:30 and 10:00 that informed about a robbery in a jewellery shop beside the bank. The jeweller informed that the robbers escaped in a small white car. This was the first clue that we got at 1:00 p.m. All police stations around the town were informed to look for the white car. Meanwhile, a traveller who listened to the news on the radio, called 101 (Police) and informed that he saw a white car going towards Ahmedabad on NH-8 at a speed of more than 100 km/h. Once again, highway patrol and police stations on NH-8 were informed. At 4:30 p.m. in the late afternoon, Vadodara police found an abandoned white car near a circle on the airport road. Robbers were very fast but the police could link the clues. The security was tightened at the airport and the railway station. It took time, but at midnight, the robbers were held near Vadodara railway station and the valuables were recovered.

Answer the questions:

 

Question 1. What happened in the morning ?
Answer: There was a phone call in the morning at 9:30 informing about a robbery.
In simple words: A phone call came at 9:30 AM reporting a robbery.

Exam Tip: For specific events, state the action and the precise time it occurred as mentioned in the text.

 

Question 2. Where did the robbery take place ?
Answer: The robbery took place in a bank on the S. P. Road.
In simple words: The robbery happened at a bank located on S. P. Road.

Exam Tip: Identify the specific location and the type of establishment involved in the event.

 

Question 3. Where was the money kept?
Answer: The money was kept in a box in the strong room.
In simple words: The money was stored in a box inside the strong room.

Exam Tip: Note precise details about the storage or placement of items mentioned in the passage.

 

Question 4. When did the police get the first clue ?
Answer: The police got the first clue at 1 p.m.
In simple words: Police received their first lead at 1 PM.

Exam Tip: Focus on chronological details and specific timings for key developments in the narrative.

 

Question 5. What did Vadodara police find ? When ? Where ?
Answer: The Vadodara police found an abandoned white car at 4 p.m. near a circle on the airport road.
In simple words: Vadodara police discovered an empty white car at 4 PM near an airport road roundabout.

Exam Tip: Ensure your answer addresses all parts of a multi-faceted question (what, when, where).

 

3. Read the excerpts from the Reads of the textbook. Identify the words / phrases indicating time and location / place. Underline them and write T = Time and L = Location / Place.

(1) The good Lord was extremely busy that day [T]. He was into his sixth day [T] of overtime. When he was working with full concentration, an angel appeared and commented, "You are taking so much care for creating this creature.” (A Wonderful Creation)

(2) For twenty-five years [T], the residents of Taj Nagar village [L] near Gurugram [L]. lobbied for a railway station [L] in their village [L]. (Against the Odds)

(3) I still remember that morning [T] of the year 1887 [T]. I was just seven years of age then. My teacher Anne Sullivan came to our house [L] that day [T]. Next day [T] she led me into her room [L] and gave me a doll. (I Love You, Teacher)

(4) In 1890 [T], at the age of about ten, I moved to the Perkins Institution [L] (I Love You, Teacher)

(5) One of our favourite festivals in India [L] is Deepavali, or Diwali as it is known in the North [L] There is nothing to match the excitement when crackers go off in the night sky [L] with a loud bang and a brilliant shower of colours. (Playing with Fire)

(6) Six minutes to six m, said the clock above the information desk [L] in New York's Grand Central Station [L]. A tall, young lieutenant lifted his face, narrowed his eyes, and noted the time. His heart was beating fast. In six minutes [T] he was going to see the woman who had been in his thoughts for the past thirteen months [T]. (Test of True Love)

 

4. Read the clever answers and guess what could be the real answers.

 

Question 1. What is your name ? My name means 'lotus' in Gujarati.
Answer: Kamal
In simple words: The Gujarati word for 'lotus' is Kamal, which is the person's real name.

Exam Tip: Connect the descriptive hint to a specific name or object to find the correct answer.

 

Question 2. Where were you born? I was born where Mahatma Gandhi was born.
Answer: At Porbandar
In simple words: The birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi is Porbandar, which is where the person was born.

Exam Tip: Use general knowledge or historical facts to identify the location hinted at.

 

Question 3. What is your date of birth ? I was born when Dr Sarvapalli Radha- krishnan was born.
Answer: On 5th September
In simple words: The birth date of Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan is September 5th, which is when the person was born.

Exam Tip: Relate the given hint to a well-known historical or cultural reference to find the specific date.

 

Question 4. At what time where you born ? I was born when Lord Krishna was born.
Answer: At 12 a.m.
In simple words: Lord Krishna was born at midnight, so the person was born at 12 AM.

Exam Tip: Use cultural or religious knowledge to deduce the time associated with the event mentioned.

 

Question 5. When do you get up every day? When I get up, the hands of the clock are 180°.
Answer: At 6 a.m.
In simple words: When the clock hands form a 180-degree angle, it means it's 6 AM, which is when the person wakes up.

Exam Tip: Visualize the clock hands at various angles to determine the correct time hinted at.

 

Question 6. Where exactly is your house ? The world's most beautiful marble monument is only two minutes' walk from my home.
Answer: In Agra
In simple words: The Taj Mahal, a beautiful marble monument, is in Agra, which is close to the person's home.

Exam Tip: Recognize famous landmarks and their locations to identify the place.

 

Question 7. Where do you live? I belong to the city of Sabarmati Ashram.
Answer: In Ahmadabad
In simple words: Sabarmati Ashram is located in Ahmedabad, so the person lives there.

Exam Tip: Identify the city associated with a famous institution or historical site.

 

Question 8. Where exactly is the book ? It is where I take my meals every day.
Answer: On the dining table
In simple words: The book is on the dining table, where the person eats daily.

Exam Tip: Use logical deduction based on daily activities to find the object's location.

 

Question 9. When do you learn photography ? I learn it once in a week when Bollywood movies are released.
Answer: On Friday
In simple words: Bollywood movies usually come out on Fridays, which is when the person learns photography once a week.

Exam Tip: Connect the described event to a common cultural or weekly occurrence.

 

Question 10. Where have you kept the TV ? It is where I sleep every night.
Answer: In bedroom
In simple words: The TV is kept in the bedroom, which is the place for sleeping every night.

Exam Tip: Relate the object's location to the room where the associated activity (sleeping) occurs.

 

Question 11. Where is the photograph? I need to turn 180° to see it.
Answer: Behind me
In simple words: To see something requiring a 180-degree turn, it must be behind the person.

Exam Tip: Understand spatial relationships and angles to determine the relative position.

 

5. Take turns to ask questions to get the given answers.

 

Question 1. Where is your shop ?
Answer: On M. G. Road
In simple words: The shop's location is on M. G. Road.

Exam Tip: For location questions, a simple "Where is..." followed by the subject works well.

 

Question 2. When will you go to school ?
Answer: At 12.30 p.m.
In simple words: The time for going to school is 12:30 PM.

Exam Tip: For time-related questions, "When will..." is the appropriate opening phrase.

 

Question 3. Where are your books ?
Answer: In the room
In simple words: The books are located inside the room.

Exam Tip: Use clear and direct questions about location for such answers.

 

Question 4. Where is your office ?
Answer: Near Gandhinagar
In simple words: The office is in the vicinity of Gandhinagar.

Exam Tip: When the answer indicates proximity, "Near [place]" is a common and correct format.

 

Question 5. Where is the ashram ?
Answer: On the banks of the Narmada.
In simple words: The ashram is found by the Narmada river.

Exam Tip: For geographical features, specify the relationship (e.g., "on the banks of," "near the mouth of").

 

Question 6. Where is your village ?
Answer: Between Vadodara and Surat.
In simple words: The village is situated between Vadodara and Surat.

Exam Tip: When describing a location relative to two other points, use "Between X and Y."

 

Question 7. Where did Gandhiji begin the salt satyagraha ?
Answer: At Dandi
In simple words: Gandhiji started the salt satyagraha movement at Dandi.

Exam Tip: Historical questions often require specific place names as answers.

 

Question 8. When will we go for a movie ?
Answer: In the evening
In simple words: We will attend the movie in the evening.

Exam Tip: Simple time indicators are sufficient for casual questions about timing.

 

Question 9. When was Lord Krishna born?
Answer: At midnight
In simple words: Lord Krishna's birth took place at midnight.

Exam Tip: Use specific time points for historical or mythological events if known.

 

Question 10. When will you go for a picnic ?
Answer: On Sunday
In simple words: The picnic is planned for Sunday.

Exam Tip: State the specific day for weekly or occasional events.

 

6. Read about Sharmin's travel plan of India. Fill in the blanks using words from the brackets to complete the plan.

Sharmin will take a flight to Mumbai on Friday, 5th November from the Heathrow Airport, London. She arrives in Mumbai on 6th November, sometime in the afternoon. She has booked an overnight stay in a hotel. Next day, she will visit the Gateway of India and Haji Ali Dargah in Mumbai. She has marked 8th November for the Elephanta Caves, which is a network of sculpted caves located on the Elephanta Island, 10 km. to the east of the city of Mumbai. She is travelling to Ajanta Caves on the 9th. The Ajanta Caves, in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra state, are 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments. The caves include some finest examples of Indian art. From the Ajanta caves, she is heading towards the North-West and arrives in Ahmedabad on Wednesday morning. Following her hectic schedule, she will rest and visit the Sabarmati Ashram and the S' Sabarmati River Front in the evening. She leaves for Lothal at 6 a.m. on Thursday. She has also hired a travel guide who will accompany her to Lothal, one of the most prominent cities of the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation, located in the Bhaal region. Sharmin is staying in Gujarat from 11th to 13th November. During her stay, she will also visit Rani ki Vaav in Patan and Lakshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara. She is flying back to London on 14th from the Sardar Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad.

 

7. Here is a map of a school and the X key to the alphabets. Describe the school using them. You may frame sentences like

 

8. Study the table carefully. Add five more sentences to it using different words/ phrases indicating time or location / place.

Writing

 

Question 1. Jeet, who has recently moved to a hostel, writes a letter to his mother about his roommate, food and warden. Complete the letter by filling in the blanks using the alternatives from the brackets.
Answer:

Room No. 27,
Pragna Hostel,
Ahmadabad.
25th June, 2016

Dear Mamma,

I hope this letter will end your worries about my stay away from you and home. There are no difficulties in the hostel. Introduction with one another is over. Everyone is having a fine time here. I am lucky to have a very fine boy as my roommate. His name is Mantra. We help each other in our study and live like brothers. The food served here is good and nutritive. It is not very different from what I get at home. You needn't worry about the quality of food. The dining hall is clean and spacious. There is greater variety if there is any special occasion. Our warden takes good care of each of us. Not only this, there is provision of both outdoor and indoor sports, I participate in them regularly. I am fine here. Please don't worry about my study and my health. Convey my humble regards to Dear Papa and love to Aatmaja. Reply as early as possible.

With love,
Your loving son,
Jeet.
In simple words: Jeet writes a letter home to his mother, explaining that he is doing well in the hostel, enjoys his roommate, finds the food good, and participates in sports. He assures her not to worry and sends regards to the family.

Exam Tip: When completing letters, ensure the tone, grammar, and content are appropriate for the context and recipient.

 

Question 2. Study the information about the Best village of Gujarat – Punsari.
Answer:

Punsari village, located in the Sabarkantha district of Gujarat, has received an award for being the Best Village Panchayat of Gujarat. It also achieved the Best Gram Sabha Award at the national level. Punsari is a small village with a population of about 6,000 (as of 2012) and operates under the Panchayati Raj system. It is the first village to offer mineral water for drinking. Punsari has a well-maintained Health Care Centre and provides good banking services to its residents, with most villagers having bank accounts. It is the only village panchayat to have a toll-free complaint centre. The village boasts good roads, and the panchayat has established mini-buses for transportation. Despite being a small village, Punsari has installed 120 speakers for public announcements across the village, along with 25 CCTV cameras at its main junction. There are five primary schools, each also equipped with CCTV cameras. The school dropout rate in this village is zero, making it the only village in the district with an underground drainage system, and every house has a toilet. In the future, Punsari Gram Panchayat plans to provide Wi-Fi facilities to all villagers and establish a public library for students and other residents.
In simple words: Punsari is a highly recognized village in Gujarat with many facilities like mineral water, health care, banking, and public transport. It has excellent infrastructure, including 120 speakers and 25 CCTV cameras, five primary schools with zero dropout rates, and an underground drainage system. Future plans involve Wi-Fi and a public library.

Exam Tip: When asked to write a paragraph based on bullet points, synthesize the information into flowing sentences, maintaining clarity and logical progression.

 

Question 3. Read the following bar graph showing details of solar power generation capacity of some states. Try to find out which state was a leader in solar power production in the past. Which one leads now? Which state is in stiff competition with the leading state? Which state is lagging behind? Explain the details in simple sentences.

Solar Power Generation in MW

Answer: This bar graph gives information about the solar power generation capacity of certain Indian states. Gujarat was ahead in solar power production until 2015. However, today, Rajasthan now leads in solar power generation. Tamil Nadu is closely competing with Rajasthan. Uttar Pradesh is the only state that has consistently lagged behind all other states in solar power generation. In short, Gujarat led in the past, followed by Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh. Today, Rajasthan leads, followed by Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh.
In simple words: The graph shows how much solar power different Indian states generate. Gujarat used to be the top producer until 2015, but now Rajasthan leads. Tamil Nadu is a close second, while Uttar Pradesh has always been the lowest in production.

Exam Tip: When analyzing a graph, first identify the overall trend, then pinpoint the highest, lowest, and most competitive values as requested by the question.

 

Question 4. Write your Ideas on 'Making My Village / City Better'. You may use these clues. (present facilities – facilities required – your ideas to motivate people Model People's Participation Programme of improving at least two facilities – its possible effects on the village life - give a new name to the campaign)
Answer:

Making My Village Better

I live in a small village in Saurashtra. In recent years, my village has greatly progressed. It now has good roads, transport facilities, a Primary Health Centre, and a post office. There are two primary schools and one high school. However, I believe more can still be accomplished, and this can be done through the community's help and cooperation. I would like to use the PPP (People's Participation Programme) model to implement my ideas. First, I would like to see improvements in education. I wish for a college in my village. Currently, many students cannot get a college education because the nearest college is nearly 25 km away in a town. I also want to open a night school for adults, especially women, as empowering women is crucial today. Second, I would like to have a good library and a bank in the village. Every household should have at least one bank account. Good irrigation facilities already exist, but I would encourage farmers to utilize better seeds, modern techniques, and farming equipment. The most significant improvement I aim for is electricity. I will inform people about the advantages of solar energy and encourage them to use this natural power source to the fullest. All these facilities would transform my village into an ideal place to live, giving people a better life. I would name my campaign 'Maru Gaam, Aadarsh Gaam' (My Village, Ideal Village).
In simple words: I want to make my village better by improving education with a new college and night schools for women. I also wish to add a library and a bank, along with encouraging farmers to use better farming methods. Most importantly, I'd promote solar energy for electricity, making the village an ideal place to live. My campaign would be 'My Village, Ideal Village'.

Exam Tip: Structure your essay logically, beginning with existing conditions, then proposing solutions, and finally detailing the positive impacts, ensuring all prompt points are covered.

Exam-Oriented Study Material

For twenty-five years, residents of Taj Nagar village near Gurugram lobbied for, a railway station in their village. When their demand was not met, the villagers decided to take matters into their own hands. They pooled in twenty-one lakh rupees and built a railway station on their own.

 

Question 1. For what did the residents of Taj Nagar lobby? How long?
Answer: The people of Taj Nagar village worked to get a railway station in their area for twenty-five years.
In simple words: The residents of Taj Nagar tried to get a railway station in their village for 25 years.

Exam Tip: To answer questions about lobbying efforts, clearly state the objective and the duration of the effort.

 

Question 2. What did the villagers decide? Why?
Answer: The people of the village chose to handle things themselves since their request for a railway station was not approved.
In simple words: The villagers decided to build the station themselves because the railway authorities didn't meet their request.

Exam Tip: When asked about a decision and its reason, ensure both parts are explicitly stated from the passage.

 

Question 3. How much money did they collect?
Answer: They gathered 21 lakh rupees.
In simple words: The villagers collected 21 lakh rupees.

Exam Tip: Always provide the exact numerical amount when asking "how much" unless the question asks for an approximation.

Most of the three thousand people living in the village are farmers. But such was the burning desire to have a station in the village, everybody contributed according to their capacity. Ranging from three thousand rupees to seventy-five thousand rupees. "They donated money for the station and we started the construction in January 2008,” said Ranjit Singh, a former village sarpanch.

 

Question 1. What are most of the people living in the village?
Answer: The majority of individuals residing in the village are farmers.
In simple words: Most of the people in the village are farmers.

Exam Tip: For direct questions, state the main occupation of the people as mentioned in the passage.

 

Question 2. What shows the burning desire of the people to have a station in the village?
Answer: The strong wish of the villagers for a railway station was clear because everyone gave money according to what they could afford, from three thousand to seventy-five thousand rupees.
In simple words: Everyone contributing money, from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 75,000, showed their intense desire for a station.

Exam Tip: Highlight collective actions and financial contributions to demonstrate a strong community desire.

 

Question 3. What was the burning desire of the people?
Answer: The strong wish of the local population was for a railway station in their village.
In simple words: The people deeply wanted a railway station in their village.

Exam Tip: Reiterate the central desire of the community clearly and concisely.

 

Question 4. When did the construction of the station begin?
Answer: Building work for the station started in January 2008.
In simple words: The station's construction began in January 2008.

Exam Tip: Provide the exact date or period mentioned for the start of construction.

"There are a large number of people in the village who need to go to Gurugram, Delhi and Rewar. There are students who go to colleges. Till now, we had to either go to Halimandi or Patli to catch a train. Both the stations are six kilometres away from Taj Nagar. We thought when the railway lines passed through the village we would have a station here. But that didn't happen. So we raised the demand in 1982 and have been continuously asking for it, but the railways told us that they did not have funds. So, finally we decided to craft our own destiny,” said Hukamchand, a member of the committee.

 

Question 1. Where did the villagers have to go to catch a train?
Answer: The local people needed to travel to Halimandi or Patli to board a train.
In simple words: Villagers had to go to Halimandi or Patli to catch a train.

Exam Tip: Name the specific places mentioned in the passage for catching a train.

 

Question 2. How far are Halimandi and Patli from Taj Nagar?
Answer: Both Halimandi and Patli are located six kilometers away from Taj Nagar.
In simple words: Halimandi and Patli are 6 kilometers away from Taj Nagar.

Exam Tip: State the exact distance provided in the text.

 

Question 3. Why did the villagers think that they should have a station in their village?
Answer: The community felt they deserved a station in their village as the railway tracks already ran through their area.
In simple words: They thought a station should be there because the railway lines passed through their village.

Exam Tip: Explain the reason for their belief, focusing on the railway line's proximity.

 

Question 4. What was the response of the railways to the villagers' demand?
Answer: The railway officials informed the villagers they lacked enough money to construct a station in their area.
In simple words: The railways said they didn't have money to build a station.

Exam Tip: Clearly state the reason given by the railway authorities for their refusal.

As a result, the panchayat passed a resolution in 2008, saying that since the railway was not able to build a station for them, they would do it for themselves and with their own money! Soon, an eleven member team was formed and the team started collecting money from villagers. On 7 January 2010, as a result of their efforts, the first railway station in the country, on which the railway did not have to spend a single rupee, started operations.

 

Question 1. What resolution did the panchayat pass?
Answer: The village council decided that since the railways could not construct a station, the villagers would build it themselves using their own money.
In simple words: The panchayat resolved that since the railways wouldn't build a station, the villagers would do it themselves with their own funds.

Exam Tip: Specify the decision made by the panchayat and emphasize the self-reliance aspect.

 

Question 2. What did the eleven member team do?
Answer: The 11-person team began gathering funds from the local people to construct a railway station.
In simple words: The eleven-member team started collecting money from the villagers to build a railway station.

Exam Tip: Describe the initial action taken by the team, highlighting their fundraising efforts.

 

Question 3. What is special about the Taj Nagar railway station?
Answer: The Taj Nagar railway station is notable because it was the first in the nation to be built entirely with public funds, with no money spent by the railway authorities.
In simple words: It was the first station in India built by people's money, without railway funds.

Exam Tip: Focus on the unique funding method and its significance as a national first.

In rural Uttar Pradesh, over sixty percent of households are without power. Sitapur district is one such place with no power. A small social enterprise called Mera Gao Power (MGP) is trying to change things. They are putting two solar panels 5 at a time. In just over a year, MGP has connected more than 3,500 customers to solar power mini-grids at a village level.

 

Question 1. What is the main problem in rural Uttar Pradesh?
Answer: The biggest challenge in rural Uttar Pradesh is that more than 60% of homes lack electricity.
In simple words: Over sixty percent of houses in rural Uttar Pradesh have no electricity.

Exam Tip: State the core issue directly, including the percentage if provided.

 

Question 2. How is MGP trying to change things?
Answer: MGP is working to improve the situation by installing two solar panels simultaneously.
In simple words: MGP is trying to make a difference by installing two solar panels at once.

Exam Tip: Explain MGP's approach and the specific actions they are taking.

 

Question 3. What is the result of MGP's efforts?
Answer: Thanks to MGP's work, over 3,500 clients now get power from solar mini-grids in villages.
In simple words: MGP's efforts have connected over 3,500 customers to solar mini-grids in villages.

Exam Tip: Quantify the positive outcomes of MGP's initiatives, including the number of beneficiaries.

Village by village, MGP is building a network of low cost solar micro-grids that provide two LED lights and a mobile charging point to all paying households at a cost of twenty-five rupees per week. That is cheaper than kerosene, which can cost almost double across a month. Solar power, as a 'smokeless' source of light, comes with added benefits to customer health.

 

Question 1. What is MGP doing?
Answer: MGP is constructing a network of affordable solar micro-grids, giving two LED lights and a phone charging port to all homes that pay, for Rs. 25 each week.
In simple words: MGP builds affordable solar micro-grids, providing two LED lights and a mobile charging point to homes for Rs. 25 per week.

Exam Tip: Describe MGP's core activity, specifying the services offered and the cost.

 

Question 2. What are the advantages of solar power?
Answer: Solar energy is more affordable than kerosene, and it is a clean power source that benefits consumer well-being.
In simple words: Solar power is cheaper than kerosene, smokeless, and good for people's health.

Exam Tip: List the financial and health-related benefits of using solar power as per the text.

 

Question 3. What facilities does MGP provide with a network of low cost solar micro-grids?
Answer: MGP offers two LED lights and a phone charging spot through its affordable solar microgrid network.
In simple words: MGP provides two LED lights and a mobile charging point using its cheap solar micro-grids.

Exam Tip: Specify the exact provisions made available by MGP's micro-grid system.

Installing a micro-grid is a grand event in the village and everyone gets involved. In the village of Damdampurawa, the team maps the village, house by house, beneath the scorching mid-day sun, working out where to place each wire so as to connect the customer to the power source. Some householders join in, while others look on, calling out orders or watching the curious proceedings wideeyed.

 

Question 1. Why does the team map the village?
Answer: The team surveys the village to plan the best spots for wires, ensuring every customer gets electricity.
In simple words: The team maps the village to find the best places for wires to connect customers to the power.

Exam Tip: Explain the strategic purpose of mapping, focusing on efficient connection to power.

 

Question 2. Why is installation of a micro-grid a grand event?
Answer: Setting up a micro-grid is a big occasion because everyone participates; some help directly, while others watch with interest, giving advice or simply observing.
In simple words: Micro-grid installation is a big event because everyone in the village gets involved, either by helping or watching with curiosity.

Exam Tip: Describe the community engagement and the general excitement surrounding the micro-grid installation.

The roof of a sturdy, brick-walled house in each village is always chosen as the site for the panels and the battery. Azaz, one of the company's first electrician to be recruited from the local district block of Reusa, installs the panel in a southerly direction to capture as much sunlight as possible.

 

Question 1. Where are the panels and the battery installed?
Answer: The panels and battery are placed on the sturdy, brick house roofs in each village.
In simple words: The panels and battery are installed on the roofs of strong, brick-walled houses.

Exam Tip: State the specific location for installing the solar equipment as mentioned in the text.

 

Question 2. Why is the panel installed in a southerly direction? OR How is the panel installed?
Answer: The panel is set up facing south to absorb the most sunshine.
In simple words: Panels are installed facing south to get maximum sunlight.

Exam Tip: Explain the reason for the panel's orientation, linking it to maximizing solar energy capture.

 

Question 3. Who is Azaz?
Answer: Azaz is one of the company's first electricians, hired from the Reusa district.
In simple words: Azaz is a first electrician for the company, recruited from Reusa.

Exam Tip: Identify the individual and state their role and origin as described.

"We're saving our environment with these lights, and there's no pollution in our homes either," says a farmer from the village. “New businesses are starting to emerge amongst the customers too,” says another. “In one village, customers are using the light to weave saris by night. In another, one man now has a night business making plastic tablecloth,” he says. "It's nice to have light while we cook and eat. Our children are also studying more now!""

 

Question 1. What are the advantages of solar power?
Answer: Solar energy protects the environment, reduces harmful emissions, and helps new businesses begin.
In simple words: Solar power helps save the environment, stops pollution, and allows new businesses to start.

Exam Tip: List the environmental and economic benefits of solar power as cited in the farmer's statements.

 

Question 2. Why are the people of the village happy?
Answer: The villagers are pleased as they have electricity for cooking and eating, and their children can study better.
In simple words: People are happy because they have light for cooking and eating, and children can study more.

Exam Tip: Mention both the practical benefits for daily life and the educational advantages for children.

 

Question 3. In one village, customers are using the light to....
Answer: In one local area, people use the light to make saris at night.
In simple words: In one village, people use the light to weave saris at night.

Exam Tip: Provide the specific activity mentioned in the passage where light is used for work.

 

Question 4. One man has a night business of....
Answer: A man operates a night-time business creating plastic tablecloths.
In simple words: One man has a night business making plastic tablecloths.

Exam Tip: State the specific night business activity described in the text.

In Kerala, the Palakkad District Public Library has been up and running since September 2013. It is a fine modern library, a centre for information, knowledge, wisdom, cultural activities, research and reference. But it has recently been in the news for different reasons. A third of its thousand members are women. These women, supported by the shared space the library offered them, launched a women's unit in February, 2014. The unit got together to discuss methods of empowering women.

 

Question 1. When was the Palakkad District Library started?
Answer: The Palakkad District Library began its operations in September 2013.
In simple words: The Palakkad District Library opened in September 2013.

Exam Tip: State the precise start date of the library's functioning.

 

Question 2. What is unique about the library members?
Answer: A notable fact about the library's members is that one-third of its thousand members are women.
In simple words: One-third of the library's thousand members are women, which is unique.

Exam Tip: Highlight the specific characteristic of the membership that makes it unique.

 

Question 3. The library is a centre for...
Answer: The library acts as a hub for information, learning, insight, cultural events, academic inquiry, and helpful sources.
In simple words: The library is a center for information, knowledge, wisdom, cultural activities, research, and reference.

Exam Tip: List all the functions and resources the library provides as described in the passage.

 

Question 4. Why was the library in news?
Answer: The library gained attention because its female members, using the shared area, started a women's group in February 2014.
In simple words: The library was newsworthy because women members formed a unit in February 2014.

Exam Tip: Explain the specific event involving women members that brought the library into public attention.

 

Question 5. What did the women's unit discuss?
Answer: The women's group talked about different ways to strengthen and uplift women.
In simple words: The women's unit discussed how to empower women.

Exam Tip: State the core topic of discussion for the women's unit.

The library opened its halls for film screening, workshops in home economics or gardening, child care or the arts, and for women to get help in managing family conflicts, legal disputes and professional problems.The secretary of the library pointed out that through reading, women would realize their own strength and forge a unity.

 

Question 1. What did the secretary point out?
Answer: The secretary explained that by reading, women would understand their own power and build a strong sense of togetherness.
In simple words: The secretary noted that reading would help women recognize their strength and create unity.

Exam Tip: Focus on the key message from the secretary about the impact of reading on women.

 

Question 2. How does the library help women?
Answer: The library assists women in dealing with household disagreements, legal issues, and work-related challenges.
In simple words: The library helps women manage family conflicts, legal problems, and professional issues.

Exam Tip: List the specific types of support the library offers to women for their various problems.

 

Question 3. What kind of workshops are conducted in the library?
Answer: The library holds workshops on subjects like home management, gardening, caring for children, and various art forms.
In simple words: The library conducts workshops on home economics, gardening, child care, and arts.

Exam Tip: Enumerate the different categories of workshops offered at the library.

 

Question 4. For what did the library open its halls?
Answer: The library made its rooms available for movie showings, workshops on home economics, gardening, childcare, or arts, and to help women handle family arguments, legal issues, and job-related difficulties.
In simple words: The library opened its halls for film screenings, workshops in various fields, and to help women with family, legal, and professional problems.

Exam Tip: Provide a comprehensive list of all activities and support services for which the library's halls were opened.

It was noted that the lending libraries of earlier times were disappearing and the present rural reading rooms were too often full of only male readers. The unit discussed that if the once well-read women of Kerala continued to squander their hours in front of television, it would encourage a climate in which women are afraid to go out after dark. So, the unit has formulated plans on opening separate reading rooms for women.

 

Question 1. What was the problem of the libraries of earlier times and the present times?
Answer: Old libraries were vanishing, and current rural reading spaces mostly had male readers.
In simple words: Old libraries were disappearing, and current ones were mostly used by men.

Exam Tip: Address both historical and contemporary challenges faced by libraries as described.

 

Question 2. If the women wasted their time in watching TV,... .
Answer: If women spent too much time watching TV, it would lead to an environment where they would be scared to go out at night.
In simple words: If women wasted time on TV, they would become afraid to go out after dark.

Exam Tip: Explain the negative social consequence of excessive TV watching by women according to the text.

 

Question 3. What has the women's unit planned?
Answer: The women's group has decided to create dedicated reading areas just for women.
In simple words: The women's unit planned to open separate reading rooms for women.

Exam Tip: Clearly state the specific plan developed by the women's unit.

Palakkad's district library stands tall as a beacon to encourage women's empowerment through classes, clubs, workshops and reading rooms. And then, there are the books, which will provide the women the strength they need to make good use of these opportunities.

 

Question 1. How does the library encourage women empowerment?
Answer: The library supports women's strength by offering courses, groups, workshops, and reading areas.
In simple words: The library helps women gain power through classes, clubs, workshops, and reading rooms.

Exam Tip: List the various avenues through which the library promotes women's empowerment.

 

Question 2. How will the books help women?
Answer: Books will help women gain the power needed to take advantage of chances for self-improvement.
In simple words: Books will give women the strength to use opportunities for their own empowerment.

Exam Tip: Explain the role of books in enabling women to utilize opportunities effectively.

 

Question 3. What does the library stand as?
Answer: The library serves as an inspiring guide, fostering women's strength through its classes, groups, workshops, and reading facilities.
In simple words: The library acts as a guiding light for women's empowerment through classes, clubs, workshops, and reading rooms.

Exam Tip: Describe the symbolic significance of the library in promoting women's progress.

2. Frame sentences using the given set of words. You may change the forms of the words.

 

Question 1. (1) demand - take matter into hands
Answer: When the students' demand was not met, they took the matters into their hands and boycotted the classes.
In simple words: When the students' request wasn't fulfilled, they took action themselves by boycotting classes.

Exam Tip: Ensure your sentence correctly uses both phrases and reflects their meaning in context.

 

Question 2. (2) pool in – build
Answer: The children have pooled in money to build a small tree-house.
In simple words: The children collected money together to construct a small tree-house.

Exam Tip: Create a sentence where 'pool in' refers to collective contribution for a 'build' project.

 

Question 3. (3) burning desire – craft destiny
Answer: The youth have a burning desire to craft their own destiny.
In simple words: Young people have a strong wish to shape their own future.

Exam Tip: Combine the strong desire with the idea of actively creating one's future.

 

Question 4. (4) as a result of – effort
Answer: As a result of our efforts, we have been able to force the authorities to reduce the school fees.
In simple words: Due to our hard work, we managed to get the school fees lowered.

Exam Tip: Use 'as a result of' to show the outcome of a preceding 'effort'.

 

Question 5. (5) squander – encourage
Answer: Parents should not encourage children to squander their pocket money on useless things.
In simple words: Parents should not let children waste their pocket money on unnecessary items.

Exam Tip: Construct a sentence showing how one action (encourage) can prevent another (squander).

3. Fill in the blanks selecting the correct words from the brackets.

 

Question 1. (1) (households, to provide, rural, power)
Answer: There are no proper roads and other facilities in many rural areas. Many households are without power. But now the government has decided to provide all facilities to them.
In simple words: Many rural homes lack proper roads and power, but the government plans to provide these facilities now.

Exam Tip: Choose words that fit the context of describing challenges and solutions in rural areas.

 

Question 2. (2) (realize, craft, strength, destiny)
Answer: The youth should craft their own destiny. They must realize their strength and work for their future.
In simple words: Young people should shape their future, understanding their power and working for it.

Exam Tip: Select words that convey self-determination, self-awareness, and future-oriented action.

 

Question 3. (3) (resolution, capacity, passed, contributed)
Answer: All the students passed a resolution to help the flood victims. Each student contributed according to his or her capacity.
In simple words: All students agreed to help flood victims and each gave what they could.

Exam Tip: Use words related to collective decision-making and individual contribution for support.

 

Question 4. (4) (knowledge, grand, construction, centre)
Answer: The construction of the new school was completed last year. The inauguration was a grand event. The principal said that it would be a centre of knowledge.
In simple words: The new school's building finished last year; its opening was a big event, and the principal called it a hub for learning.

Exam Tip: Choose words that describe building projects, events, and educational facilities.

 

Question 5. (5) (encourage, former, opportunity, support)
Answer: The former chief minister of the state has decided to support the young who want to stand for the elections. He has decided to encourage the youth by giving them an opportunity to serve the people.
In simple words: The past chief minister decided to back young people running for elections, giving them a chance to help the public.

Exam Tip: Select words that relate to past positions, encouragement, political chances, and public service.

 

Question 6. (6) (launched, cheap, emerged, benefit)
Answer: This government will provide cheap power to the villages. This will benefit many poor people. One such scheme was launched by the Prime Minister. As a result of this, many new businesses have emerged in the rural areas.
In simple words: The government will offer affordable power, benefiting many poor villagers. A scheme was started by the Prime Minister, leading to new businesses appearing in rural areas.

Exam Tip: Choose words that describe government initiatives, economic advantages, and new developments.

 

Question 7. (7) (environment, source, installed, pollution)
Answer: Sun is the major source of energy. Many solar panels are installed in villages and cities. This reduces pollution and helps to save the environment.
In simple words: The sun is the main energy source. Solar panels are set up everywhere, reducing pollution and protecting nature.

Exam Tip: Select words that relate to energy origins, renewable technology, and ecological impact.

 

Question 8. (8) (connected, local, offer, discussed)
Answer: The local leaders discussed methods to keep the youth connected to their village. They have decided to offer better jobs in and around the village.
In simple words: Community leaders talked about how to keep young people in the village and decided to offer them better local job opportunities.

Exam Tip: Choose words that describe community dialogue, local ties, and employment initiatives.

 

Question 9. (9) (manage, sturdy, recently, reason)
Answer: Though this house is old, it is quite sturdy and it is easy to manage it, too. That is the reason why our grandparents still live here. But it was renovated recently.
In simple words: This old house is strong and easy to care for, which is why our grandparents still reside here. It was recently updated.

Exam Tip: Select words that describe the condition of a house, its upkeep, and the rationale for living there.

 

Question 10. (10) (well-read, strength, emerging, information)
Answer: A lot of new careers are emerging because of globalization. The youth are well-read and they have a lot of information about everything. This is their greatest strength.
In simple words: New jobs are appearing due to globalization. Young people are knowledgeable and well-informed, which is their biggest advantage.

Exam Tip: Choose words related to global trends, education, and personal capabilities.

 

Question 11. (11) (opportunity, curious, wisdom, noted)
Answer: Birbal was known for his wit and wisdom. He never missed any opportunity to prove this. He noted that all the ministers were curious to know how he solved problems easily.
In simple words: Birbal was famed for his intelligence and always seized chances to show it. He observed that ministers were keen to learn his easy problem-solving methods.

Exam Tip: Select words that describe intelligence, keen observation, and the desire to learn.

 

Question 12. (12) (realize, offer, squander, lend)
Answer: Do you realize how expensive this dress is? How much discount does the shopkeeper offer for it? You should not squander your money. And I will not lend you any money.
In simple words: Do you know the price of this dress? What discount does the shopkeeper give? Don't waste your money, and I won't loan you any funds.

Exam Tip: Use words that relate to financial transactions, value, and personal financial decisions.

 

Question 13. (13) (formulate, continuously, conflict, effort)
Answer: We have been working continuously to formulate a plan overcome the crisis. It's a team effort. There is no conflict within the team.
In simple words: We've been constantly working to create a plan to solve the crisis. It's a group effort with no disagreements.

Exam Tip: Choose words that describe ongoing work, planning, collaboration, and harmony.

 

Question 14. (14) (members, workshop, shared, empower)
Answer: The workshop was organized to discuss methods to empower women. All the members participated in the discussion and shared their ideas.
In simple words: A workshop was held to talk about how to empower women. All participants joined in and gave their ideas.

Exam Tip: Select words that relate to organized events, group participation, and social strengthening.

4. Write short notes using the given questions /points.

 

Question 1. Taj Nagar Railway Station
(What was the need for a railway station? – Why did the people want a railway station? - What was the response of the railways? – What did the villagers then do? -How much money did they pool in? – When was the railway station built?)
Answer: There were many people and students in Taj Nagar who needed to travel to Gurugram, Delhi, and Rewar. They had to either go to Halimandi or Patli to catch a train. Both these stations are six kilometers away. The railway lines passed through the village, so the people asked for a railway station there in 1982. However, the railways refused, stating they did not have funds. As a result, the villagers decided to build a station themselves. Everyone contributed according to their ability, ranging from three thousand rupees to seventy-five thousand rupees. They collected twenty-one lakh rupees and constructed a railway station on their own. The station began operations on 7 January, 2010.
In simple words: Taj Nagar needed a railway station because many residents and students traveled to distant cities, and existing stations were 6 km away. Despite railway lines passing through, authorities refused funding in 1982. So, villagers raised 21 lakh rupees themselves, contributing from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 75,000, and built their own station, which opened on January 7, 2010.

Exam Tip: When writing a short note, ensure all points in the prompt are addressed systematically, covering the need, efforts, challenges, and outcome.

 

Question 2. MGP's Efforts for Solar Power in Sitapur District
(What has MGP done in the village? -What do the solar micro-grids provide the customers? -At what cost? -Why does the MGP team map the village? – What are the benefits of solar power?)
Answer: Mera Gao Power (MGP) has connected more than 3,500 customers to solar power mini-grids at the village level. MGP is building a network of low-cost solar micro-grids that provide two LED lights and a mobile charging point to all paying households at a cost of twenty-five rupees per week. The MGP team maps the village, house by house, working out where to place each wire to connect customers to the power source efficiently. Due to solar micro-grids, there is no pollution, and the environment is also saved. Additionally, new businesses have emerged in the villages. Children are able to study more, and people enjoy cooking and eating in light.
In simple words: MGP has connected over 3,500 customers to low-cost solar mini-grids in Sitapur. These grids give two LED lights and a phone charging point for Rs. 25/week. MGP maps villages to plan wire placement. Benefits include no pollution, environmental protection, new local businesses, more study time for children, and better cooking and eating conditions.

Exam Tip: Structure your short note by addressing each sub-question clearly, covering MGP's actions, services, costs, methods, and the overall benefits of solar power.

 

Question 3. Benefits of Solar Power
(cheap – smokeless source of light – customer's health – saves environment – no pollution - new businesses – enjoy cooking and eating in light – children study more)
Answer: Solar power is cheaper than kerosene, which can cost almost double in a month. It is a smokeless source of light, which comes with added benefits to customer's health. Solar power saves environment because there is no pollution. New businesses have also started emerging because of solar power. People enjoy cooking and eating in light, and children are able to study more.
In simple words: Solar power is affordable, clean, and good for health. It protects the environment by preventing pollution. It helps new businesses start, allows people to cook and eat in light, and lets children study more.

Exam Tip: Categorize the benefits into economic, environmental, health, and social impacts to provide a comprehensive answer for a short note.

 

Question 4. Palakkad's District Library
(when it was established – centre of knowledge, wisdom, etc. women members - women's unit-women's empowerment -activities like film screening, workshops – women get help in family conflicts, legal disputes and professional problems – separate reading rooms for women – women's empowerment through classes,clubs, workshops and reading rooms)
Answer: The Palakkad District Public Library was established in September 2013. It functions as a centre for information, knowledge, wisdom, cultural activities, research, and reference. Notably, one-third of its thousand members are women. In February 2014, these women, utilizing the library's shared space, launched a dedicated women's unit. This unit gathered to discuss effective methods for empowering women. The library opened its halls for various activities, including film screenings, workshops on home economics, gardening, child care, and the arts. It also provides support for women to manage family conflicts, legal disputes, and professional challenges. The unit developed plans for establishing separate reading rooms specifically for women. The library actively promotes women's empowerment through its organized classes, clubs, workshops, and accessible reading rooms.
In simple words: Palakkad's District Library, opened in September 2013, is a hub for knowledge, culture, and research, with a third of its members being women. These women formed a unit in February 2014 to discuss empowerment. The library offers film screenings, workshops (home economics, gardening, childcare, arts), and help with family, legal, and professional issues. It plans separate reading rooms for women and promotes their empowerment via classes, clubs, workshops, and reading facilities.

Exam Tip: A good short note on a library should cover its establishment, services, unique features (like a women's unit), and its impact on the community, especially regarding empowerment.

5. Select the title of the Read related with each sentence.

(Note: Important sentences of this Read are given here.)

(1) When their demand was not met, the villagers decided to take matters into their own hands.

(2) Such was the burning desire to have a station in the village, everybody contributed according to their capacity.

(3) Till now, we had to either go to Halimandi or Patli to catch a train. Both the stations are six kilometres away from Taj Nagar.

(4) We thought when the railway lines passed through the village we would have a station here.

(5) We raised the demand in 1982 and have been continuously asking for it, but the railways told us that they did not have funds.

(6) Finally we decided to craft our own destiny

(7) As a result of their efforts, the first railway station in the country, on which the railway did not have to spend a single rupee, started operations.

(8) A small social enterprise called Mera Gao Power (MGP) is trying to change things.

(9) In just over a year, MGP has connected more than 3,500 customers to solar power mini-grids at a village level.

(10) Village by village, MGP is building a network of low cost solar micro-grids that provide two LED lights and a mobile charging point to all paying households at a cost of twenty-five rupees per week.

(11) Solar power, as a 'smokeless' source of light, comes with added benefits to customer health.

(12) Installing a micro-grid is a grand event in the village and everyone gets involved.

(13) The roof of a sturdy, brick-walled house in each village is always chosen as the site for the panels and the battery.

(14) We're saving our environment with these lights, and there's no pollution in our homes either.

(15) New businesses are starting to emerge amongst the customers too.

(16) It's nice to have light while we cook and eat. Our children are also studying more now!

(17) A third of its thousand members are women.

(18) The unit got together to discuss methods of empowering women.

(19) The library opened its halls for film screening, workshops in home economics or gardening, child care or the arts, and for women to get help in managing family conflicts, legal disputes and professional problems.

(20) Through reading, women would realize their own strength and forge a unity.

(21) The unit has formulated plans on opening separate reading rooms for women.

(22) There are the books, which will provide the women the strength they need to make good use of these opportunities.

6. Fill in the blanks selecting the correct words from the brackets.

7. Complete the sentences using the functions given in the brackets.

 

Question 7. (1) The farewell party was held last evening.
Answer: The farewell party took place last evening.
In simple words: The party happened last night.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to the function provided in brackets to ensure your completed sentence correctly specifies time, location, or other required details.

 

Question 7. (2) Hemantbhai's shop is located near the station.
Answer: Hemantbhai's shop is situated close to the station.
In simple words: Hemantbhai's store is by the station.

Exam Tip: Use clear prepositions like 'near', 'at', or 'on' when specifying locations in your sentences.

 

Question 7. (3) I met Vinay in the morning.
Answer: I saw Vinay in the morning.
In simple words: Vinay and I met today morning.

Exam Tip: Common time expressions like 'in the morning', 'at night', and 'in the evening' are often used to specify time.

 

Question 7. (4) Minal has gone to the library.
Answer: Minal went to the library.
In simple words: Minal is now at the library.

Exam Tip: Ensure the verb tense matches the context when describing movement to a location.

 

Question 7. (5) Ranjan will be in office at 10 a.m.
Answer: Ranjan will be at work by 10 AM.
In simple words: Ranjan will start work at 10 in the morning.

Exam Tip: For specific times, always use 'at' (e.g., at 10 a.m.), whereas for broader periods, 'in' or 'on' might be used.

 

Question 7. (6) Mohan has rented a house on M. G. Road.
Answer: Mohan has taken a house on rent on M. G. Road.
In simple words: Mohan lives in a rented house on M. G. Road.

Exam Tip: Use 'on' for specific roads or streets when indicating location (e.g., on M. G. Road).

 

Question 7. (7) We celebrate Independence Day on 15th August.
Answer: We observe Independence Day on August 15th.
In simple words: Independence Day is celebrated on August 15.

Exam Tip: Use 'on' for specific dates or days (e.g., on 15th August, on Monday).

 

Question 7. (8) Ramjibhai works in a post office.
Answer: Ramjibhai is employed at a post office.
In simple words: Ramjibhai's job is at the post office.

Exam Tip: When describing a workplace, 'in' or 'at' are commonly used prepositions depending on the specificity.

 

8. Complete the dialogue using the functions given in the brackets.

Heena :Where are you going?
Nita: I am going to the library?
Heena: Where is it?
Nita: It is opposite the clock tower. (specifying location)
Heena : Oh, I see. When will you come back ?
Nita: I think I will be back at 6 o'clock.

 

Against the Odds Summary in Gujarati

તાજનગરના પાય છેલ્લાં પચીસ વર્ષોથી, ગુડગાંવ પાસેના તાજનગર ગામનાં નિવાસીઓએ તેમના ગામમાં રેલવે સ્ટેશન માટે પ્રયાસ કર્યો. જ્યારે તેમની માગણી સંતોષવામાં આવી નહીં, ત્યારે ગ્રામજનોએ આ બાબતને પોતાના હાથમાં લેવાનો નિર્ણય કર્યો. તેમણે એકવીસ લાખ રૂપિયાનું ભંડોળ એકઠું કરીને તેમની જાતે રેલવે સ્ટેશન બાંધ્યું. આ ગામમાં વસતાં ત્રણેક હજાર લોકોમાંથી મોટા ભાગના ‘ લોકો ખેડૂતો છે.

પણ ગામમાં રેલવે સ્ટેશન માટેની એવી પ્રબળ ઇચ્છા હતી કે સૌએ પોતાની ક્ષમતા પ્રમાણે ફાળો આપ્યો. ત્રણ હજાર રૂપિયાથી માંડીને પંચોતેર હજાર રૂપિયા સુધી. “તેમણે સ્ટેશન માટે પૈસા આપ્યા અને અમે જાન્યુઆરી 2008માં બાંધકામ શરૂ ક્યું." એક ભૂતપૂર્વ સરપંચ રણજિત સિંહે કહ્યું.

ગુડગાંવ, દિલ્લી અને રેવાર જનાર લોકોની ઘણી મોટી સંખ્યા આ ગામમાં છે. કૉલેજ જનાર વિદ્યાર્થીઓ (૫) હોય છે. આજ સુધી અમારે ગાડી પકડવા માટે હાલીમી અથવા પાટલી જવું પડતું. બંને સ્ટેશન તાજનગરથી છ કિલોમીટર દૂર છે. અમને લાગ્યું કે જ્યારે રેલવે લાઇન ગામમાંથી જ પસાર થાય છે, તો અમારે અહીં સ્ટેશન હોવું જોઈએ. પણ તેમ થયું નહીં. તેથી 1982માં અમે માગણી કરી હતી અને ત્યારથી સતત માગણી કરતાં રહ્યાં છીએ, પણ રેલવે પાસે ભંડોળ નથી તેવું અમને કહેવામાં આવ્યું. તેથી છેવટે અમે અમારી નિયતિ સ્વયે ઘડી કાઢવાનું નક્કી કર્યું,” સમિતિના સભ્ય હુકમચંદે જણાવ્યું.

પરિણામે 2008માં પંચાયતે ઠરાવ પસાર કર્યો કે રેલવે તેમના માટે સ્ટેશન બાંધી શકતું ન હોવાથી, તેઓ તેમની જાતે જ બાંધશે અને તે પણ તેમના પોતાના પૈસાથી! તરત જ અગિયાર સભ્યોની એક ટીમની રચના કરવામાં આવી અને (આ) ટીમે ગ્રામજનો પાસેથી પૈસા એકઠા કરવાનું શરૂ કર્યું. તેમના અથાગ પ્રયત્નોના પરિણામે, 7 જાન્યુઆરી 2010થી દેશનું એવું એક પહેલું રેલવે સ્ટેશન કાર્યાન્વિત થયું, જેમાં રેલવેનો એક રૂપિયો પણ વપરાયો ન હતો. સીતાપુરની લાઇટ ઉત્તર પ્રદેશના ગ્રામવિસ્તારોમાં સાઠ ટકા ઉપરાંત ઘરોમાં વીજળી નથી. આવી જ એક વીજળી વગરની જગ્યા છે સીતાપુર

જિલ્લો, Mera Gao Power (MSP) નામની એક નાની સામાજિક સંસ્થા પરિસ્થિતિ બદલવાનો પ્રયત્ન કરી રહી છે તેઓ એકી વખતે બે સોલર પૅનલ મૂકી રહ્યા છે, આશરે એક વર્ષમાં MGPએ ગ્રામ કક્ષાએ 3,500થી વધારે ગ્રાહકોને સોલર પાવર મિનિ-ગ્રિડ સાથે જોડ્યાં છે. એક પછી એક ગામમાં, MGP ઓછી કિંમતના સોલર માઇક્રો-ગ્રિડ્ઝનું નેટવર્ક (જાળું) ઊભું કરી રહ્યું છે, જેના દ્વારા ખર્ચ આપતાં ગ્રાહકોને બે LED લાઇટ અને એક મોબાઇલનું ચાર્જિંગ પૉઇન્ટ, અઠવાડિયે પચીસ રૂપિયાના દરે જો આપે છે. તે કેરોસીન કરતાં સસ્તું છે, કારણ કે) એક મહિનામાં તેનો (કેરોસીનનો) ખર્ચ બમણો આવે છે. સૌર-ઊર્જા, પ્રકાશનો એક ધૂમ્રરહિત સ્ત્રોત હોવાથી, ગ્રાહકના સ્વાથ્ય માટે વધારે લાભકારક છે.

ગામડામાં માઇક્રો-ગ્રિડ ઊભી કરવી એ એક ભવ્ય પ્રસંગ હોય છે અને દરેક જણ તેમાં રસ લે છે. દમદમપૂરાવા નામના હું એક ગામમાં, બપોરના બળબળતા તડકામાં એક ટીમ ઘરે ઘરે ફરીને આખાયે ગામની એક નકશો તૈયાર કરે છે, જેથી એ નક્કી કરી શકાય કે ગ્રાહકને પાવરના સ્ત્રોત સાથે જોડવા માટે દરેક તાર ક્યાં મૂકી શકાય. અમુક ગ્રાહકો (આ કામમાં જોડાય છે,

જ્યારે બીજા કેટલાક ઊભા ઊભા આદેશ આપે અથવા આ રસપ્રદ કાર્યને કુતૂહલપૂર્વક જુએ છે.પૈનલ (તકતીઓ) અને બૅટરિ ગોઠવવા માટે દરેક ગામમાં એક મજબૂત, ઈંટની દીવાલવાળા ધરનું છાપરું પસંદ કરવામાં આવે છે. સ્થાનિક જિલ્લાના રેફસા બ્લૉકમાંથી કંપની દ્વારા ભરતી કરવામાં આવેલો સૌથી પહેલો ઈલેક્ટિશન એજાઝ, વધારેમાં વધારે સૂર્યપ્રકાશ પકડી શકાય તે રીતે પૅનલને દક્ષિણ દિશામાં બેસાડે છે.

“આ લાઇટથી અમે અમારા પર્યાવરણની રક્ષા કરીએ છીએ અને અમારા ઘરોમાં પણ પ્રદૂષણ થતું નથી." ગામનો એક ખેડૂત કહે છે, “ગ્રાહકોમાં પણ નવા વ્યવસાય ઊભા થઈ રહ્યા છે,” એક બીજો (ખેડૂત) કહે છે. “એક ગામમાં ગ્રાહકો રાત્રે સાડી વણવામાં આ લાઇટનો ઉપયોગ કરે છે. બીજા એક ગામમાં એક માણસ માટે પ્લાસ્ટિકના ટેબલક્લૉથ બનાવવાનો રાતનો વ્યવસાય બની ગયો છે,” તે કહે છે."રસોઈ અને ભોજન દરમિયાન લાઇટ હોય તો સારું લાગે છે. અમારાં બાળકો પણ હવે વધારે અભ્યાસ કરે છે.”

પલક્કડનું સાર્વજનિક ગ્રંથાલય કેરળમાં ધ પલક્કડ ડિસ્ટ્રિક્ટ પબ્લિક લાઇબ્રરિ (પલક્કડ જિલ્લાનું સ્થાનિક ગ્રંથાલય) સપ્ટેમ્બર 2013થી ચાલે છે, તે એક સરસ, આધુનિક ગ્રંથાલય છે – માહિતી, જ્ઞાન, વિદ્વત્તા, સાંસ્કૃતિક પ્રવૃત્તિઓ, સંશોધન અને સંદર્ભગ્રંથોનું એક કેન્દ્ર, પણ હાલમાં કેટલાંક જુદા જ કારણોસર તે સમાચારમાં છે. તેના એક હજાર સભ્યોમાંથી ત્રીજા ભાગના સભ્યો મહિલાઓ છે.

ગ્રંથાલયમાં આપવામાં આવેલી જગ્યામાં આ મહિલાઓએ ફેબ્રુઆરી, 2014માં મહિલા વિભાગ શરૂ કર્યો. આ વિભાગનાં સભ્યોએ એકઠાં મળીને સ્ત્રીસશક્તિકરણની પદ્ધતિઓ વિશે ચર્ચા કરી. ફિલ્મોનું પ્રદર્શન, ગૃહ, આર્થિક વ્યવસ્થા કે બાગાયત વિશે કાર્યશાળાઓ, બાળઉછેર અથવા કલા અને મહિલાઓને કૌટુંબિક ઝઘડા, કાયદાકીય તકરાર અને વ્યાવસાયિક પ્રશ્નોના ઉકેલમાં મદદ મળે તે માટે ગ્રંથાલયે તેના ખંડ ખુલ્લા મૂક્યા.

ગ્રંથાલયના સેક્રટ્રિ(મંત્રી)એ કહ્યું કે વાચન દ્વારા મહિલાઓ પોતાની શક્તિ પારખીને એકતા (સંગઠન) સાધી શકે છે. એ પણ ધ્યાનમાં આવ્યું હતું કે જૂના વખતનાં ગ્રંથાલયોની સંખ્યા ઘટી રહી હતી અને હાલના ગ્રામીણ વાચન ખંડો બહુધા પુરુષ વાચકોથી ભરેલા રહેતા હતા. મહિલા વિભાગે ચર્ચા કરી કે જો કેરળની બહુશ્રુત સ્ત્રીઓ ટેલિવિઝન સામે કલાકો સુધી બેસીને સમયનો દુર્વ્યય કરવાનું ચાલુ રાખશે, તો એક એવું વાતાવરણ ઊભું થશે, જેમાં સ્ત્રીઓ

અંધારું થતાં બહાર જતાં ડરશે. આથી (મહિલા) વિભાગે સ્ત્રીઓ માટે અલાયદા વાચન ખંડો ખોલવાની યોજનાઓ બનાવી છે. વર્ગો, ક્લબ, કાર્યશાળાઓ અને વાચન ખંડો દ્વારા સ્ત્રીસશક્તિકરણને પ્રોત્સાહન આપતી પલક્કડનું જિલ્લા ગ્રંથાલય એક પથદર્શક મશાલ જેવું છે અને વળી અહીં એવાં પુસ્તકો પણ છે, જે મહિલાઓને આવી તકનો સુયોગ્ય ઉપયોગ કરવા માટે જરૂરી શક્તિ આપે છે.

 

Word Meanings

Tracks to Taj Nagar

(1) to meet someone's demand
The principal refused to meet the teachers' demand of rise in salary.

(2) to take matters into one's own hands
Instead of waiting for the police, the people took matters into their own hands and caught the thief.

(3) to pool in
How much money have the students pooled in for the function ?

(4) burning desire
It was Jay's burning desire to own a beautiful new motorcycle.

(5) to raise a demand
The students have raised a demand to have a Sports Day every year.

tracks (ટ્રેક્સ) પાટા

resident (રેસિડન્ટ) રહેવાસી, નિવાસી

to lobby (ટૂ લૉબિ) અસર પાડવાનો પ્રયત્ન કરવો

to contribute (ટૂ કન્ટ્રિબ્યૂટ) ફાળો આપવો

capacity (કપૅસિટિ) ક્ષમતા, શક્તિ

to donate (ટૂ ડનેટ) દાન કરવું

construction (કન્સ્ટ્રક્શન) બાંધકામ

former (ફૉર્મર) ભૂતપૂર્વ

continuously (કન્ટિન્યુઅસલિ) સતત

fund (ફન્ડ) ફાળો, ભંડોળ

to craft (ટૂ ક્રાફ્ટ) ઘડી કાઢવું

destiny (ડેસ્ટિનિ) નિયતિ

member (મેમ્બર) સભ્ય

committee (કમિટિ) સમિતિ

to pass (ટૂ પાસ) પસાર કરવું

resolution (રેઝલૂશન) ઠરાવ

effort (એફર્ટ) પ્રયત્ન

operation (ઑપરેશન) ક્રિયા

Sitapur's Lights

rural (રૂરલ) ગ્રામીણ

household (હાઉસહોલ્ડ) ઘર

power (પાવર) વીજળી

district (ડિસ્ટ્રિક્ટ) જિલ્લો

social (સોશલ) સામાજિક

enterprise (એન્ટરપ્રાઈઝ) સંસ્થા

solar (સોલર) સૂર્યનું, સૌર

to connect (ટૂ કનેફ્ટ) જોડવું

customer (કસ્ટમર) ગ્રાહક

level (લેવલ) કક્ષા

network (નેટવર્ક) જાળું

cost (કૉસ્ટ) ખર્ચ

to provide (ટૂ પ્રવાઈડ) પૂરું પાડવું

cheap (ચીપ) સસ્તું

solar power (સોલર પાવર) સૌર-ઊર્જા

smokeless (સ્મોકલિસ) ધૂમ્રરહિત

source (સૉર્સ) સ્રોત

benefit (બેનિફિટ) લાભ

health (હેલ્થ) સ્વાસ્થ્ય

to install (ટૂ ઈન્સ્ટૉલ) ઊભું કરવું

grand (ગ્રેન્ડ) ભવ્ય

event (ઈવેન્ટ) પ્રસંગ

beneath (બિનીથ) -ની નીચે

scorching (સ્કૉર્ચિંગ) બળબળતું

mid-day (મિડ-ડે) બપોર

curious (ક્યુઅરિઅસ) ઉત્સુક

proceeding (પ્રસીડિંગ) કાર્યવાહી, કાર્ય

wide-eyed (વાઈડ-આઈડ) કુતૂહલપૂર્વક

sturdy (સ્ટર્ડિ) મજબૂત

chosen (past participle of 'to choose') (योजन) પસંદ કરેલું

site (સાઈટ) સ્થાન, જગ્યા

to recruit (ટૂ રિક્રૂટ) ભરતી કરવું

local (લોકલ) સ્થાનિક

direction (ડિરેક્શન) દિશા

to capture (ટૂ કૅપ્ચર) પકડવું

environment (ઈન્વાયર્નમન્ટ) પર્યાવરણ

pollution (પલૂશન) પ્રદૂષણ

business (બિઝનિસ) ધંધો, કામકા

to emerge (ટૂ ઈમર્જ) બહાર આવવું

Palakkad's Public Library

modern (મૉડર્ન) આધુનિક

centre (સેન્ટર) કેન્દ્ર

information (ઈન્ફર્મેશન) માહિતી

knowledge (નૉલિજ) જ્ઞાન

wisdom (વિઝ્ડમ) વિદ્વત્તા

cultural activity (કલ્ચરલ ઍક્ટિવિટિ) સાંસ્કૃતિક પ્રવૃત્તિ

research (રિસર્ચ) સંશોધન

reference (રેફરન્સ) સંદર્ભ

recently (રીસલિ) હાલમાં

reason (રીઝન) કારણ

to support (ટૂ સપૉર્ટ) આધાર આપવો

to share (ટૂ શેઅર) ભાગ આપવો

space (સ્પેસ) જગ્યા

to offer (ટૂ ઑફર) આપવું

to launch (ટૂ લૉન્ચ) શરૂ કરવું

unit (યુનિટ) એકમ, વિભાગ

to discuss (ટૂ ડિસ્કસ) ચર્ચા કરવી

method (મેથડ) પદ્ધતિ

to empower (ટ્ર ઈમ્પાવર) અધિકાર આપવો / શક્તિ આપવી

workshop (વર્કશૉપ) કાર્યશાળા

economics (ઇકનૉમિક્સ) આર્થિક વ્યવસ્થાને લગતું

gardening (ગાર્ડનિંગ) બાગકામ

to manage (ટૂ મૅનિજ) સંભાળવું, કાબૂમાં રાખવું

conflict (કૉન્ફ્લફ્ટ) ઝઘડો

legal (લીગલ) કાયદાનું, કાયદાકીય

dispute (ડિપ્યુટ) તકરાર

professional (પ્રફેશનલ) વ્યવસાયિક

to realize (ટૂ રિઅલાઈઝ) સમજવું, પારખવું

 

Idioms And Phrases

Tracks to Taj Nagar

(1) to meet someone's demand

The principal refused to meet the teachers' demand of rise in salary.

(2) to take matters into one's own hands

Instead of waiting for the police, the people took matters into their own hands and caught the thief.

(3) to pool in

How much money have the students pooled in for the function ?

(4) burning desire

It was Jay's burning desire to own a beautiful new motorcycle.

(5) to raise a demand

The students have raised a demand to have a Sports Day every year.

 

Sitapur's Light

(1) to get involved

All the villagers have got involved in digging a well in the village.

(2) to work out

We will work out the cost of the trip.

(3) to look on

While most of us were busy decorating the classroom, some students just sat and looked on.

(4) to call out

The commander called out the troops to march.

(5) as much as possible

We are trying to collect as much money as possible for the people affected by floods.

 

Palakkad's Public Library

(1) up and running

Hemantbhai's printing press has been up and running since last two years.

(2) to be in the news

Our school has been in the news for our most up-to-date library.

(3) to point out

The teacher called each student and pointed out his / her mistakes in the answer sheets.

(4) in front of

Please do not scold children in front of their classmates.

(5) to stand tall

Mihir's good behaviour and manners make him stand tall among all his friends.

 

I Feel... (Classroom / Individual Activity)

 

Question 1. What is great about the people of Taj Nagar ?
Answer: The people of Taj Nagar showed great determination, unity, and self-reliance. They decided to build their own railway station after the authorities declined, collecting funds and working together to achieve a shared goal for their community.
In simple words: The people of Taj Nagar were determined and united. They built their own railway station by collecting money when the government refused.

Exam Tip: When discussing community achievements, highlight virtues like unity, determination, and self-reliance to score good marks.

 

Question 2. What will be the qualities of the people of these places ?
Answer: The people in these areas exhibit qualities of self-reliance, community spirit, and proactive initiative. They are resourceful and demonstrate a strong sense of collective action to improve their lives and local facilities.
In simple words: People in these places are self-reliant and work together. They take initiative and use their own resources to improve things for everyone.

Exam Tip: Focus on positive community attributes like self-help and collective effort when describing the qualities of residents in successful local projects.

 

Question 3. Underline the sentences showing the sentiments of these people.

 

Question 4. What did you feel when you read the underlined sentences. What would you have done if you had been the resident of that village ?
Answer: I felt truly inspired and impressed by the community's strong will and collective spirit. If I were a resident of that village, I would have certainly joined in their efforts, contributing my resources and time to achieve such a vital goal.
In simple words: I was inspired by their strong community spirit. If I lived there, I would have helped with money and time to build the station.

Exam Tip: For reflective questions, express genuine feelings of admiration and commitment, and describe concrete actions you would take to demonstrate engagement.