ICSE Class 10 Home Science Sample Paper 2024 with Solutions

SECTION A

Question 1
Choose the correct answers to the questions from the given options.
(Do not copy the question, write the correct answers only.) [20 Marks]

(i) The main objective of furnishing a house is: [1 Mark]
(a) To have imbalance look.
(b) To protect from microorganisms
(c) To spend money
(d) For aesthetics and functionalism

Answer: (d) For aesthetics and functionalism

Furnishing enhances the visual appeal (aesthetics) and usability (functionalism) of a living space.

Teacher's Note:
a) Home furnishing includes items like curtains, carpets, and upholstery that add beauty and comfort.
b) Students should remember that good furnishing balances practical needs with visual design.

(ii) The advantage of modular kitchen is: [1 Mark]
(a) Modular fittings cannot be easily repaired
(b) Last minute adjustments cannot be made
(c) Durable and easy to clean
(d) High manufacturing cost

Answer: (c) Durable and easy to clean

Modular kitchens use pre-made cabinet parts and modern materials that offer durability and easy maintenance.

Teacher's Note:
a) Modular kitchen designs optimize space utilization and offer modern convenience.
b) Options (a), (b), and (d) are actually disadvantages of modular kitchens.

(iii) __________ is a disorder that causes children to lose focus on task and involved in excessive amount of activity. [1 Mark]
(a) Dyscalculia
(b) Dysgraphia
(c) ADHD
(d) Dyslexia

Answer: (c) ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Teacher's Note:
a) Dyscalculia relates to difficulty in learning mathematics, while Dyslexia affects reading.
b) Dysgraphia is a writing disability. Ensure students know the distinct definitions of learning and behavioral disorders.

(iv) White colour is used on kitchen ceilings to enhance: [1 Mark]
1. Visibility
2. Cleanliness
3. Poor ventilation
4. Unhygienic conditions
(a) 1. and 3.
(b) 2. and 4.
(c) 1. and 4.
(d) only 1.

Answer: (d) only 1.

White reflects maximum light, thus enhancing visibility and brightness in the kitchen.

Teacher's Note:
a) Light colors maximize illumination, making working spaces safer and easier to navigate.
b) Points 3 and 4 are negative conditions that no one would want to enhance.

(v) Rita’s friend wants to promote a new mobile phone as a part of her marketing campaign. In this context, choose the appropriate mode of communication. [1 Mark]
(a) Poster
(b) Leaflet
(c) Book
(d) Puppet show

Answer: (b) Leaflet

Leaflets are widely used for product promotions, advertising features, and commercial marketing campaigns.

Teacher's Note:
a) Leaflets provide detailed product information and can be distributed easily to potential customers.
b) Puppet shows are typically used for social awareness campaigns in rural settings, not for commercial mobile phone launches.

(vi) Processed cereals should be kept in: [1 Mark]
(a) Refrigerator
(b) Ice boxes
(c) Tightly covered bottles
(d) Open air

Answer: (c) Tightly covered bottles

Tightly covered containers protect processed cereals from moisture, humidity, and insects.

Teacher's Note:
a) Proper dry storage prevents infestation by weevils and other pests.
b) Refrigeration is unnecessary for dry processed cereals.

(vii) Jam and jellies are preserved with: [1 Mark]
(a) Spices
(b) Vinegar
(c) Salt
(d) Sugar

Answer: (d) Sugar

High concentration of sugar acts as a preservative by binding moisture and preventing microbial growth in jams and jellies.

Teacher's Note:
a) Sugar osmosis inhibits the growth of bacteria and molds in sweet preserves.
b) Salt and vinegar are used for preserving pickles and savory items.

(viii) Friction is applied on __________ fabrics. [1 Mark]
(a) Cotton
(b) Silk
(c) Woolen
(d) Rayon

Answer: (c) Woolen

Fulling or friction (milling) is applied during the finishing of woolen fabrics to compact and felt the fibers.

Teacher's Note:
a) Wool fibers possess scales that lock together when subjected to moisture, heat, and friction.
b) Cotton and silk do not require or respond to friction finishing in the same manner.

(ix) Ironing temperature of silk is: [1 Mark]
(a) 275 degree F
(b) 150 degree F
(c) 100 degree F
(d) 450 degree F

Answer: (a) 275 degree F

Silk is a delicate protein fiber that requires moderate, low-to-medium heat (around 275 degree F or lower) to prevent scorching.

Teacher's Note:
a) High temperatures can yellow and damage silk fibers permanently.
b) Students must memorize standard ironing temperatures for different textiles.

(x) Starch gives the fabric: [1 Mark]
(a) Bluish tinge
(b) New and original look
(c) A frothy appearance
(d) A dull look

Answer: (b) New and original look

Starch restores crispness, stiffness, and a fresh, new appearance to cotton and linen garments.

Teacher's Note:
a) Starch fills the empty spaces between threads, imparting smoothness and body.
b) It also helps repel dirt temporarily during wear.

(xi) Concise and visually appealing document in a threefold format is called: [1 Mark]
(a) Brochure
(b) Flyer
(c) Poster
(d) Leaflet

Answer: (a) Brochure

A brochure is typically folded into sections, such as a threefold format, presenting structured information.

Teacher's Note:
a) Brochures are multi-page or folded promotional materials used for detailed advertising.
b) Flyers are usually single flat sheets.

(xii) __________ is an example of convenience food. [1 Mark]
(a) Milk
(b) Onions
(c) Canned juice
(d) Fish

Answer: (c) Canned juice

Convenience foods are commercially prepared foods designed for ease of consumption, such as canned juices.

Teacher's Note:
a) They reduce preparation time and effort in the kitchen.
b) Milk, onions, and fish in their raw states are staple or fresh food items, not processed convenience foods.

(xiii) Hand puppet is also known as [1 Mark]
(a) Rod puppet
(b) Glove puppet
(c) Shadow puppet
(d) Finger puppet

Answer: (b) Glove puppet

Hand puppets are worn on the hand like a glove, allowing finger movements to animate the head and arms.

Teacher's Note:
a) Glove puppets are very popular in traditional and educational puppet theater.
b) Rod puppets are operated by rods from below, and shadow puppets use light and screens.

(xiv) A type of audio-visual aid which is famous in villages. [1 Mark]
(a) Brochure
(b) Nukkad Natak
(c) Slide shows
(d) Multimedia

Answer: (b) Nukkad Natak

Nukkad Natak (street play) is an effective traditional audio-visual medium for mass communication and social messaging in villages.

Teacher's Note:
a) Street plays involve live acting, dialogues, and music, making them highly engaging for rural audiences.
b) Brochures require literacy and individual reading, whereas Nukkad Natak is community-based.

(xv) ASSERTION (A): Evaporating moisture from food stuff prevents growth of micro organisms.
REASON (R): Most micro organisms cannot grow without water. [1 Mark]
(a) A is true but R is false.
(b) A is false but R is true.
(c) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(d) Both A and R are true and R is not the correct explanation of A.

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

Microorganisms require moisture to multiply; removing water halts their metabolic processes and prevents food spoilage.

Teacher's Note:
a) Dehydration is one of the oldest and most effective methods of food preservation.
b) Reason R correctly explains the scientific principle behind Assertion A.

(xvi) Choose the correct pair: [1 Mark]
A. Authoritative parenting style      1. Warm and Responsive
B. Authoritarian parenting style      2. Set balanced boundaries
C. Neglecting parenting style      3. Adhering to rules
D. Permissive parenting style      4. Uninvolved
(a) A - 1. B - 3. C - 4. D - 2.
(b) A - 2. B - 3. C - 4. D - 1.
(c) A - 2. B - 4. C - 1. D - 3.
(d) A - 3. B - 2. C - 1. D - 4.

Answer: (a) A - 1. B - 3. C - 4. D - 2.

Authoritative is warm and responsive; Authoritarian enforces strict rules; Neglecting is uninvolved; Permissive sets lenient or balanced boundaries.

Teacher's Note:
a) Match parenting styles with their characteristic behavioral traits accurately.
b) Authoritative parenting balances high responsiveness with clear expectations.

(xvii) Physical and/or psychological violation of a child is known as: [1 Mark]
(a) Human trafficking
(b) Child Abuse
(c) Female infanticide
(d) Female foeticide

Answer: (b) Child Abuse

Child abuse encompasses any form of physical, emotional, or psychological maltreatment of a minor.

Teacher's Note:
a) It causes physical, mental, or emotional harm to the child's development.
b) Human trafficking and female foeticide are distinct legal and social crimes.

(xviii) The disadvantage of readymade garments are: [1 Mark]
(a) No tailoring required
(b) Labels are provided for care instruction
(c) The final products have latest trends and styles
(d) Commonly available patterns as they are produced in bulk

Answer: (d) Commonly available patterns as they are produced in bulk

Mass production means lack of exclusivity; many people wear the same design.

Teacher's Note:
a) Bulk production leads to uniformity and standard sizing that may not fit every individual perfectly.
b) Options (a), (b), and (c) are advantages of readymade garments.

(xix) Choose the incorrect pair: [1 Mark]
A. Fast food      1. Pickles
B. Convenience food      2. Milk
C. Perishable food      3. Ham Burger and French fries
D. Semi perishable food      4. Onions
(a) A - 1. B - 3. C - 4. D - 2.
(b) A - 2. B - 1. C - 3. D - 4
(c) A - 4. B - 3. C - 2. D - 1.
(d) A - 3. B - 1. C - 2. D - 4.

Answer: (b) A - 2. B - 1. C - 3. D - 4

Evaluating the pairs, Fast food matches hamburger and french fries (A-3), so pairing A with 2 (Milk) is incorrect.

Teacher's Note:
a) Analyze food classifications carefully before matching pairs.
b) Fast food refers to commercially sold quick-service meals like burgers.

(xx) A ___________ budget shows expenditure exceeds income. [1 Mark]
(a) Balanced
(b) Deficit
(c) Surplus
(d) Moderate

Answer: (b) Deficit

When expenditures exceed income, the budget is in deficit.

Teacher's Note:
a) A surplus budget occurs when income exceeds expenditure.
b) A balanced budget has income equal to expenditure.

Question 2
Answer all the questions:

(i) What do you mean by Cognitive development? [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Cognitive development refers to the development of the ability to think, reason, understand, and learn.
2. It includes intellectual processes such as memory, problem solving, decision making, and perception from childhood through adulthood.

Teacher's Note:
a) Jean Piaget is the prominent psychologist associated with cognitive development stages.
b) Ensure keywords like thinking, reasoning, and mental processes are mentioned.

(ii) Shivi ordered rice and dal through an online app. Give two reasons for Shivi choosing the above combination of food. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Nutritional complementarity: Rice and dal together provide mutual supplementation of amino acids, ensuring high-quality complete protein.
2. Convenience and comfort: Rice and dal form a traditional, easily digestible, and culturally preferred meal.

Teacher's Note:
a) Cereal-pulse combination provides all essential amino acids deficient in individual plant sources.
b) Mention mutual supplementation for full credit.

(iii) Mention the need for good ventilation in a kitchen. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. To remove smoke, foul odors, steam, and heat generated during cooking.
2. To bring in fresh air, ensuring a comfortable working environment and preventing suffocation or condensation.

Teacher's Note:
a) Good ventilation protects the homemaker's health from pollutants and excessive heat.
b) It also prevents grease accumulation on walls and ceilings.

(iv) List any two emotional changes observed in middle childhood. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Greater emotional control and ability to express feelings appropriately.
2. Development of self-concept and self-esteem based on peer comparison and academic performance.

Teacher's Note:
a) Middle childhood spans roughly ages 6 to 12 years.
b) Children learn to manage anger and anxiety better than in early childhood.

(v) State two reasons for avoiding steeping of woolens. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Prolonged soaking weakens wool fibers and causes them to lose their shape and elasticity.
2. Wet wool shrinks and felts easily when left standing in water for too long.

Teacher's Note:
a) Woolens should be washed gently in lukewarm water with mild detergent and squeezed without twisting.
b) Avoid soaking to maintain the garment's texture and size.

(vi) What is the aim of street play? [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. To create awareness about social issues and educate the masses directly in public spaces.
2. To bring about positive behavioral changes and inspire community action on critical issues.

Teacher's Note:
a) Street plays (Nukkad Natak) use drama, slogans, and music for effective communication.
b) They reach audiences who may not have access to print media.

(vii) List any two objectives of PMUY. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. To safeguard the health of women and children by providing clean cooking fuel (LPG).
2. To reduce air pollution caused by burning traditional fuels like firewood and cow dung.

Teacher's Note:
a) PMUY stands for Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana.
b) It empowers women by reducing drudgery associated with collecting firewood.

(viii) State any two major causes of food spoilage. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Action of microorganisms such as bacteria, yeasts, and molds.
2. Enzyme activity naturally present in food leading to over-ripening and decay.

Teacher's Note:
a) Other causes include pests (insects and rodents) and unfavorable storage conditions.
b) Mentioning microorganisms and enzymes is essential.

(ix) What do you understand by ready-made garments? [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Garments that are manufactured in factories in standard sizes and quantities, ready to be worn off the rack.
2. They eliminate the need for individual custom tailoring and fittings.

Teacher's Note:
a) Readymade garments save time and offer a wide variety of latest fashion designs.
b) They are produced in bulk using standardized sizing charts.

(x) State two points while designing a poster. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Use clear, concise, and bold headings with catchy slogans.
2. Ensure appropriate visual imagery and color contrast to attract attention.

Teacher's Note:
a) A poster should convey its message at a single glance.
b) Keep text minimal and impactful.

SECTION B
(Answer any four questions from this Section.)

Question 3

(i) Explain the importance of making a budget. [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Financial control: A budget helps families monitor income and expenses, preventing wasteful expenditure.
2. Living within means: It ensures that spending does not exceed earnings, avoiding debt and financial crises.
3. Goal achievement: It facilitates systematic savings for future needs such as education, housing, and emergencies.
4. Prioritization of needs: It helps allocate funds to essential needs first before spending on wants.
5. Promotes wise buying: It encourages comparison shopping and evaluation of alternative purchases.

Teacher's Note:
a) Budgeting is the cornerstone of home management.
b) Give clear headings and explain each point briefly for full marks.

(ii) State the important features of a cooking centre. [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Placement of equipment: It houses the stove, hob, oven, and microwave for cooking food.
2. Proximity to work triangle: It should be conveniently located relative to the sink and refrigerator.
3. Heat and fire safety: Adequate fire-resistant wall surfaces and safe electrical points should be provided.
4. Ventilation: Proper chimney or exhaust fan placement above the cooking range to remove smoke and odors.
5. Counter space: Heat-resistant counter space nearby for placing hot pots and pans.

Teacher's Note:
a) The cooking center is a core part of kitchen workspace ergonomics.
b) Emphasize safety, efficiency, and ventilation.

(iii) Discuss any five factors affecting the choice of carpets. [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Purpose and room usage: High traffic areas require durable, tightly woven carpets, while low traffic areas can have delicate textures.
2. Budget: The cost of the carpet depends on fiber quality, weave, and brand.
3. Ease of maintenance: Carpets should be easy to vacuum, clean, and stain-resistant, especially in homes with children or pets.
4. Interior decor and color scheme: The color, pattern, and style must harmonize with the room's curtains, walls, and furniture.
5. Fiber composition: Choice between natural fibers (wool, cotton) and synthetic fibers (nylon, polyester) based on climate and preference.

Teacher's Note:
a) Carpets add warmth, sound insulation, and aesthetic appeal to interiors.
b) Discuss practical utility alongside aesthetic factors.

Question 4

(i) Discuss how social development forms an integral part of a child’s development. [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Interpersonal relationships: Social development enables children to form healthy relationships with family, peers, and teachers.
2. Communication skills: It fosters verbal and non-verbal expression, helping children share thoughts and feelings.
3. Sharing and cooperation: Children learn essential social values like sharing, empathy, teamwork, and compromise.
4. Adjustment to societal norms: It teaches children to understand rules, cultural values, and appropriate social behavior.
5. Emotional and psychological well-being: Healthy social interactions build self-confidence and reduce anxiety and isolation.

Teacher's Note:
a) Social development goes hand in hand with emotional and cognitive growth.
b) Highlight how peer groups and family shape socialization during childhood.

(ii) State the factors affecting the physical development of the child. [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Heredity and genetics: Biological traits inherited from parents determine height, body build, and growth potential.
2. Nutrition and diet: A balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals is essential for proper growth and bone development.
3. Health and illness: Frequent infections and chronic illnesses can stunt physical growth and weight gain.
4. Hormonal influences: Proper functioning of endocrine glands (pituitary, thyroid) regulates growth rates.
5. Socio-economic status and environment: Access to clean living conditions, healthcare, and physical activity greatly impacts physical development.

Teacher's Note:
a) Physical development involves quantitative changes in height, weight, and body proportions.
b) Ensure all five distinct factors are clearly stated and explained.

(iii) List any five symptoms of an ADHD Child. [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Inattention: Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play; easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
2. Hyperactivity: Fidgeting with hands or feet, squirming in seat, and running about inappropriately.
3. Impulsivity: Blurting out answers before questions are completed, difficulty waiting for a turn.
4. Disorganization: Trouble organizing tasks, losing school materials, and failing to follow instructions.
5. Restlessness: Feeling constantly restless and talking excessively in quiet environments.

Teacher's Note:
a) ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
b) Symptoms manifest early in childhood and affect academic and social functioning.

Question 5

(i) List any five factors to be kept in mind while storing perishable foods. [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Temperature control: Store in refrigerators or freezers at appropriate low temperatures to inhibit bacterial growth.
2. Proper packaging: Use airtight containers, foil, or plastic wraps to prevent moisture loss and contamination.
3. FIFO principle: Follow First In, First Out to use older items before newer ones.
4. Hygiene and cleanliness: Keep storage areas, refrigerator shelves, and bins thoroughly sanitized.
5. Separation of foods: Separate raw meats from ready-to-eat foods to avoid cross-contamination.

Teacher's Note:
a) Perishable foods include milk, meat, fish, fruits, and vegetables.
b) Emphasize cold chain maintenance and hygiene.

(ii) State any five hygienic measures to be followed while handling food. [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Handwashing: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
2. Clean utensils and surfaces: Ensure all knives, cutting boards, and cooking vessels are sanitized.
3. Personal hygiene: Wear clean clothes, keep hair tied back, and cover cuts or wounds.
4. Pest control: Keep food preparation areas free from insects, rodents, and pets.
5. Proper waste disposal: Dispose of kitchen garbage promptly in covered bins.

Teacher's Note:
a) Food hygiene prevents foodborne illnesses and contamination.
b) Write points clearly with practical kitchen examples.

(iii) Tom watched her grandmother preparing a fruit jam. He noticed she had put a lot of sugar into the vessel while cooking it. Why? [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Preservation role: Sugar acts as a natural preservative by lowering water activity.
2. Osmosis: High sugar concentration draws out moisture from fruit cells and microbial cells, inhibiting bacterial and mold growth.
3. Texture and consistency: Sugar helps in gel formation when combined with pectin and acid, giving jam its characteristic set.
4. Flavor enhancement: It balances the tartness of fruits and improves palatability.
5. Shelf life extension: Adequate sugar content allows jams to be stored safely for long periods without refrigeration after opening.

Teacher's Note:
a) Pectin, sugar, and acid are the three essential ingredients required for setting jam.
b) Explain both the preservative and textural functions of sugar.

Question 6

(i) Enumerate any five steps of laundering a white cotton shirt. [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Mending and preparation: Check for loose buttons, empty pockets, and mend any tears before washing.
2. Sorting: Separate white cotton clothes from colored garments to prevent dye transfer.
3. Steeping/Soaking: Soak the shirt in warm soapy water to loosen dirt and grime.
4. Washing: Wash using friction (rubbing collar and cuffs) or machine wash with suitable detergent and bleach if needed.
5. Rinsing, Starching, and Drying: Rinse thoroughly to remove soap, apply light starch, and dry in direct sunlight to help whiten cotton.

Teacher's Note:
a) Cotton can withstand high temperatures and vigorous washing.
b) Sunlight acts as a natural bleaching agent for white cottons.

(ii) List any five benefits of using detergent in laundering of clothes. [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Superior cleaning action: Synthetic detergents lower the surface tension of water more effectively than soap.
2. Hard water compatibility: They do not form insoluble soap scum in hard water.
3. Emulsification: They emulsify oily and greasy soils efficiently.
4. Versatility: Available in various formulations suitable for delicate fabrics, woolens, and colored clothes.
5. Quick dissolving: They dissolve rapidly in cold and warm water alike.

Teacher's Note:
a) Detergents are petroleum or vegetable oil-based cleaning agents.
b) Contrast detergents with traditional soaps for better clarity.

(iii) How does budget and fashion play an important role in the selection of readymade garments? [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Budget considerations: Determines the price range, fabric quality, and brand selection ensuring value for money.
2. Financial planning: Prevents overspending and allows allocation of clothing funds according to family priorities.
3. Fashion trends: Reflects current styles, silhouettes, and color preferences making the wearer feel socially accepted and confident.
4. Occasion appropriateness: Fashion dictates suitable clothing choices for formal events, casual wear, or work.
5. Balancing utility and style: Helps consumers choose durable, timeless designs over passing fads when budget is limited.

Teacher's Note:
a) Clothing selection is guided by economic resources and aesthetic trends.
b) Divide the answer clearly into budget factors and fashion factors.

Question 7
Write short notes on the following: (Any five points)

(i) Types of kitchens [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. One-wall kitchen: All appliances and counters are arranged along a single wall, ideal for small apartments.
2. L-shaped kitchen: Counters form an L shape along two adjacent walls, offering efficient work flow and space.
3. U-shaped kitchen: Counters on three adjoining walls, providing maximum storage and workspace.
4. Corridor or Galley kitchen: Parallel counters facing each other with a walkway in between.
5. Island kitchen: Features a freestanding workspace counter in the center of the kitchen.

Teacher's Note:
a) Kitchen layout designs are based on the kitchen work triangle concept.
b) Mentioning at least four layout types gives full credit.

(ii) Importance of a balanced diet [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Provides all essential nutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, water) in correct proportions.
2. Supports optimum physical and mental growth in children.
3. Strengthens the immune system, protecting against infections and diseases.
4. Provides energy required for daily activities and bodily functions.
5. Prevents nutritional deficiency disorders and promotes longevity and well-being.

Teacher's Note:
a) A balanced diet caters to age, sex, and activity level.
b) Highlight disease prevention and energy maintenance.

(iii) Role of peer group in middle childhood [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Socialization: Peers help children learn social rules, cooperation, and conflict resolution outside the family.
2. Independence: They provide a sense of belonging and help children separate emotionally from parents.
3. Identity formation: Peer comparison helps shape self-concept, self-esteem, and personal interests.
4. Moral development: Children learn fairness, justice, and group loyalty through peer interactions.
5. Emotional support: Peers offer companionship and emotional security during school years.

Teacher's Note:
a) Peer influence increases significantly during middle childhood (ages 6 to 12).
b) Discuss positive developmental impacts clearly.

Question 8

(i) Explain any five objectives of MNREGA ACT. [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Wage employment guarantee: To enhance livelihood security in rural areas by providing at least 100 days of guaranteed wage employment in a financial year to every household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work.
2. Poverty alleviation: To reduce rural poverty by supplementing household incomes.
3. Creation of rural assets: To create durable assets such as water conservation structures, drought proofing, and rural roads.
4. Women empowerment: To ensure one-third of the beneficiaries under the scheme are women.
5. Curbing migration: To reduce distress migration from rural to urban areas by providing local employment.

Teacher's Note:
a) MNREGA stands for Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act.
b) Mention the 100-day employment guarantee for full marks.

(ii) Discuss any two ecological issues of India. [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Deforestation: Indiscriminate cutting of trees for agriculture, urbanization, and industry leads to loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, and climate change.
2. Water pollution and scarcity: Industrial effluents, untreated sewage, and agricultural runoff contaminate rivers and groundwater, leading to severe drinking water shortages.
3. Air pollution: Vehicular emissions, industrial smoke, and stubble burning severely degrade air quality in major cities and regions.
4. Waste management crisis: Inadequate municipal solid waste disposal leads to overflowing landfills and plastic pollution.
5. Loss of wildlife habitats: Encroachment on forests threatens endangered species and disrupts ecological balance.

Teacher's Note:
a) Students can select any two major issues and elaborate on their causes and impacts.
b) Keep explanations structured and factual.

(iii) The Union Minister for women and Children Development, recognized the importance of gender equality and women’s empowerment in all sectors of development agenda. Hence the Government has established multiple schemes for women to increase awareness and provide assistance to them.
In this context, answer the following questions.

(a) Explain the term women empowerment. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Women empowerment refers to increasing and improving the social, economic, political, and legal strength of women.
2. It ensures their equal rights, decision-making power, financial independence, and ability to participate fully in society.

Teacher's Note:
a) Empowerment involves breaking traditional gender barriers.
b) Highlight financial independence and social equality.

(b) Suggest two practises to curtail gender discrimination. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Promoting equal educational opportunities and career choices for both boys and girls.
2. Ensuring equal wages for equal work and equal participation in household and societal decision-making.

Teacher's Note:
a) Eradicating gender bias begins at home and in schools.
b) Give practical, clear social practices.

(c) Name any two child welfare schemes initiated by Government of India. [1 Mark]

Answer:
1. Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
2. Mid-Day Meal Scheme (PM POSHAN)

Teacher's Note:
a) Other acceptable answers include Beti Bachao Beti Padhao or Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana.
b) Ensure accurate naming of government schemes.