Samacheer Kalvi Class 8 Social Science Solutions Chapter 8 Status of Women in India

Samacheer Kalvi 8th Social Science Status of Women in India Through the Ages Text Book Back Questions And Answers

I. Choose the Correct Answer.

Question 1. Which type of society is constantly changing with additions, assimilations and omissions from within and outside?
(a) Human
(b) Animal
(c) Forest
(d) Nature
Answer: (a) Human
In simple words: Human society is always changing. It takes in new things, blends them with old ones, and sometimes gets rid of old ways, both from inside and outside influences.

🎯 Exam Tip: When answering about societal changes, remember that human interactions and factors are usually the driving force behind them.

Question 2. The first woman doctor in India was
(a) Dharmambal
(b) Muthulakshmi Ammaiyar
(c) Moovalur Ramamirdham
(d) Panditha Ramabai
Answer: (b) Muthulakshmi Ammaiyar
In simple words: Dr. Muthulakshmi Ammaiyar was the very first woman to become a doctor in India. She made a big step for women in medicine.

🎯 Exam Tip: Important figures in history, especially those who were 'firsts' in their field, are often asked about. Remember names and their key achievements.

Question 3. The practice of sati was abolished in
(a) 1827
(b) 1828
(c) 1829
(d) 1830
Answer: (c) 1829
In simple words: Sati, a bad old practice, was officially stopped in 1829. This was a major social reform during that time.

🎯 Exam Tip: Dates of major social reforms and the associated practices are crucial. Link the date with the event for better recall.

Question 4. B.M. Malabari was a
(a) teacher
(b) doctor
(c) lawyer
(d) journalist
Answer: (d) journalist
In simple words: B.M. Malabari was a journalist by profession. He used his writing to bring about important social changes.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing the profession of historical figures helps understand their influence and contributions to society.

Question 5. Which of the following was/were the reform movement(s)?
(a) Brahma Samaj
(b) Prarthana Samaj
(c) Arya Samaj
(d) All of the options
Answer: (d) All of the options
In simple words: All three, Brahma Samaj, Prarthana Samaj, and Arya Samaj, were important movements that worked to bring social changes and improvements. Each played a role in reforming society.

🎯 Exam Tip: When a question asks for "movement(s)", it hints that there might be more than one correct answer, making "All of the options" a strong possibility if multiple choices are indeed correct.

Question 6. The Bethune school was founded by J.E.D. Bethune in
(a) 1848
(b) 1849
(c) 1850
(d) 1851
Answer: (b) 1849
In simple words: J.E.D. Bethune started the Bethune school in the year 1849. This school was important for promoting girls' education.

🎯 Exam Tip: Dates associated with the establishment of educational institutions are often tested. Try to remember the year when important schools or colleges were founded.

Question 7. Which commission recommended to start primary schools for girls in 1882?
(a) Wood's
(b) Welby
(c) Hunter
(d) Muddiman
Answer: (c) Hunter
In simple words: The Hunter Commission suggested that primary schools for girls should be started in 1882. This recommendation helped boost girls' education.

🎯 Exam Tip: Commissions and their recommendations, especially regarding education and social reform, are key historical facts. Focus on the commission's name and its main suggestion.

Question 8. Sarada's Child Marriage Bill fixed the minimum marriageable age for girls at
(a) 11
(b) 12
(c) 13
(d) 14
Answer: (d) 14
In simple words: The Sarada Act set the lowest age for girls to get married at 14 years. This law was a big step to stop child marriages.

🎯 Exam Tip: Laws related to child marriage and the specific age limits they set are important. Remember the act's name and the age specified.

II. Fill in the Blanks.

Question 1. Alath Pemal Juvenile society was set up by the Christian missionaries in 1819.
Answer: Alath Pemal Juvenile
In simple words: Christian missionaries started the Alath Pemal Juvenile society in 1819. This organization helped with social welfare.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on linking specific societies or organizations with their founders or founding year. Pay attention to how the blank is structured in the sentence.

Question 2. Velu Nachiyar of Sivaganga fought bravely against the British.
Answer: Velu Nachiyar
In simple words: Velu Nachiyar, who was from Sivaganga, was very brave and fought against the British rulers. She is known for her courage in battle.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the names of key freedom fighters and the regions they were associated with, as well as their significant actions.

Question 3. Servants of India Society was started by Gopal Krishna Gokhale.
Answer: Gopal Krishna Gokhale
In simple words: Gopal Krishna Gokhale started the Servants of India Society. This group aimed to work for the welfare of India.

🎯 Exam Tip: It is important to know which prominent leaders founded specific social or political organizations.

Question 4. Periyar was one of the greatest social reformers of Tamil Nadu.
Answer: Periyar
In simple words: Periyar was a very important leader who worked to improve society in Tamil Nadu. He is well-known for his strong ideas on social equality.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify key reformers with their region and main contribution. "Periyar" is a title, but used as a name for E.V. Ramasamy in this context.

Question 5. Kandukuri Veeresalingam published a journal called Vivekavardhini.
Answer: Vivekavardhini
In simple words: Kandukuri Veeresalingam started a newspaper or magazine called Vivekavardhini. He used it to share his reform ideas with others.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect social reformers with the publications they used to spread their message. This shows how they influenced public opinion.

III. Match the Following.

Question 1. Match the following.

🎯 Exam Tip: For matching questions, first identify the pairs you are absolutely sure about, then use the process of elimination for the remaining ones. Be careful with names and dates.

IV. State True or False.

Question 1. Women were honoured in the Rig Vedic period.
Answer: True
In simple words: During the Rig Vedic times, women were treated with respect and honor. Their status in society was high.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the general social conditions of different historical periods. The Rig Vedic period is known for a relatively higher status of women compared to later periods.

Question 2. The Devadasi system was a social evil.
Answer: True
In simple words: The Devadasi system was indeed a bad social practice. It caused harm to women in society.

🎯 Exam Tip: Social evils are important topics. Clearly identify and state whether a specific practice was considered evil or not, based on historical context.

Question 3. Raja Rammohan Roy was the pioneer of the Indian social reform movement.
Answer: True
In simple words: Raja Rammohan Roy was one of the first and most important leaders to start the social reform movement in India. He began many efforts to change society for the better.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Pioneer" implies he was a significant early figure. Connect such titles with the correct historical personality.

Question 4. Reservation of 23 percent for women envisaged an improvement in their socio-political status.
Answer: False
In simple words: The idea that 23 percent reservation would improve women's standing in society is not correct. The actual percentage or specific policy may differ.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be precise with numbers and facts related to policies. Even a slight change in a percentage can make a statement false.

Question 5. The age of marriage was raised for boys and girls by the Sharda Act of 1930.
Answer: True
In simple words: The Sharda Act, passed in 1930, made the minimum age for marriage higher for both boys and girls. This law helped stop very young children from getting married.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the specific names of important acts and the years they were passed, along with their main purpose.

V. Choose the Correct Statement.

Question 1. Find out the correct pair.
(a) Women's University – Prof. D.K. Karve
(b) Justice Ranade – Arya Samaj
(c) Widow Remarriage Act – 1855
(d) Rani Lakshmi Bhai – Delhi
Answer: (a) Women's University – Prof. D.K. Karve
In simple words: The correct match is that Prof. D.K. Karve was connected with establishing a Women's University. He worked hard for women's education.

🎯 Exam Tip: When matching, carefully check each pair. Knowing the key contributions of historical figures helps identify correct associations.

Question 2. Find the odd one out.
(a) Child marriage
(b) Sati
(c) Devadasi system
(d) Widow remarriage
Answer: (d) Widow remarriage
In simple words: Child marriage, Sati, and the Devadasi system were all bad social practices that reformers fought against. Widow remarriage, however, was a social reform that allowed widows to marry again, so it is the one that is different.

🎯 Exam Tip: To find the "odd one out," identify the common category for most items and then see which item does not fit into that category. Here, it's about social evils vs. social reform.

Question 3. Consider the following Statements
(i) Begum Hazarat Mahal, Rani Lakshmi Bhai of Jhansi led an armed revolt against the British
(ii) Velunachiyar of Sivaganga, Tamil Nadu fought bravely against the British
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(a) i only
(b) ii only
(c) i and ii
(d) neither i nor ii
Answer: (c) i and ii
In simple words: Both statements are correct. Begum Hazarat Mahal and Rani Lakshmi Bai were brave leaders who fought the British, and Velunachiyar also fought bravely against them in Tamil Nadu. All these women played important roles in resisting British rule.

🎯 Exam Tip: When dealing with multiple statements, evaluate each one individually for its accuracy before combining them to find the correct option.

Question 4. Assertion: Raja Rammohan Roy is most remembered by all Indians
Reason: He wiped out the evil practice of Sati from the Indian Society
(i) A and R are wrong
(ii) A is correct and R is Wrong
(iii) A is correct and R explains A
(iv) A is correct and R does not explain A
Answer: (iii) A is correct and R explains A
In simple words: The statement that Raja Rammohan Roy is widely remembered is true, and the reason given—that he helped end the bad practice of Sati—is also true and explains why he is so well-known. His efforts to abolish Sati made him a key figure in Indian history.

🎯 Exam Tip: For Assertion-Reason questions, first determine if both A and R are true statements. Then, check if R is the correct explanation for A by using "because" between them.

VI. Answer the Following in One or Two Sentences.

Question 1. Name the prominent leaders who fought for the upliftment of women.
Answer: Many important social and religious reformers fought for women's upliftment during the British period. These leaders include Raja Rammohan Roy, Dayananda Saraswathi, Keshab Chandra Sen, Ishwar Chandra Vidya Sagar, Pandita Ramabai, Dr. Muthulakshmi, Jyoti Rao Phule, Periyar E.V.R., and Dr. Dharmambal. They all worked to improve the lives and status of women.
In simple words: Many leaders like Raja Rammohan Roy, Periyar, and Dr. Muthulakshmi Ammaiyar worked hard to improve the lives of women. They wanted women to have a better position in society.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing multiple names, try to include a diverse set of figures to show broader knowledge, and ensure correct spellings.

Question 2. List out some social evils?
Answer: Some of the harmful social practices that existed include female infanticide (killing baby girls), female foeticide (killing unborn baby girls), child marriage, Sati, and the Devadasi system. These practices caused great suffering in society.
In simple words: Some bad social practices were killing baby girls, killing unborn baby girls, marrying children, Sati (widows burning themselves), and the Devadasi system.

🎯 Exam Tip: Provide clear and concise examples of social evils. Briefly defining them in your mind can help confirm their relevance.

Question 3. Who were the notable women during the medieval period?
Answer: During the medieval period, some important women included Razia Sultana, Queen Durgavati, Chand Bibi, Nurjahan, Jahanara, Jijabai, and Mira Bai. These women played significant roles in their respective times, often showing great leadership or devotion.
In simple words: Famous women from the medieval time were Razia Sultana, Queen Durgavati, Chand Bibi, Nurjahan, Jahanara, Jijabai, and Mira Bai.

🎯 Exam Tip: Historical figures, especially women who made a mark, are important. Remember their names and the period they lived in.

Question 4. Mention the important women freedom fighters of India?
Answer: Some key women freedom fighters of India include Velunachiyar of Sivaganga, Begum Hazrat Mahal, and Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi. These women bravely led revolts and movements against foreign rule.
In simple words: Important women who fought for India's freedom were Velunachiyar from Sivaganga, Begum Hazrat Mahal, and Rani Lakshmi Bai from Jhansi.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on prominent women who actively participated in the freedom struggle. Mentioning their associated regions can add value to your answer.

Question 5. Give a note on Sati.
Answer: Sati was a harmful social practice mainly seen among Rajputs in Indian society. It involved a widow burning herself on her husband's funeral pyre, encouraged by the feudal society of the time. While initially voluntary, relatives later often forced widows to perform this act.
In simple words: Sati was a bad custom where a widow would burn herself on her husband's funeral pyre. It was common among Rajputs and was sometimes forced upon women.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing social evils, explain what the practice was, where it was prevalent, and any important details about its nature (e.g., voluntary vs. forced).

VII. Answer the Following.

Question 1. Trace the role of women in the freedom struggle.
Answer: The spread of education among women led to many social reforms, including the end of the purdah system and increased female participation in the freedom struggle. Women played vital roles in the early anti-colonial fights. For example, Velunachiyar of Sivaganga bravely fought the British and got her rule back. Begum Hazrat Mahal and Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi also led armed revolts against the British in 1857. During the freedom movement, thousands of women left their homes, boycotted foreign goods, marched in protests, disobeyed laws, faced police beatings, and willingly went to jail. Their widespread involvement showed their deep commitment to gaining independence.
In simple words: Women played a big part in the freedom struggle. They got educated, left old traditions like purdah, and fought bravely. Leaders like Velunachiyar and Rani Lakshmi Bai led revolts, and many other women protested, boycotted goods, and went to jail.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing women's roles, highlight both their active participation in armed resistance and their involvement in peaceful protests and social reform, as both were crucial.

Question 2. Explain the contribution of Social reformers to the eradication of social evils.
Answer: Social reformers made huge contributions to remove social evils. Raja Rammohan Roy, with the help of William Bentinck, abolished Sati in 1829, making it illegal. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar founded many girls' schools and championed widow remarriage while fighting against polygamy. Kandukuri Veeresalingam opened his first girls' schools in 1874. M. G. Ranade promoted widow remarriage, and B.M. Malabari worked to end child marriage. Gopal Krishna Gokhale worked to spread female education. Periyar E.V.R. supported women's education and widow remarriage, and many other women reformers also helped get rid of social evils. Their combined efforts led to significant changes in society.
In simple words: Social reformers worked hard to end bad practices. Raja Rammohan Roy stopped Sati, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar helped widows remarry and started girls' schools, and M. G. Ranade fought against child marriage. Many others also worked to spread education and improve women's lives.

🎯 Exam Tip: For this type of question, list specific reformers and their corresponding contributions to different social evils. This demonstrates a clear understanding of their impact.

Question 3. Give a detailed account of the Impact of the reform movement?
Answer: The reform movement brought about major changes and improvements in society. Significant progress was made in freeing women from old restrictions, which helped them gain more independence. The movement also created a sense of national awareness among people. It fostered feelings of sacrifice, service, and a logical way of thinking. The bad practices of Sati and female infanticide were outlawed, and widow remarriage was allowed. Furthermore, several new laws were passed to improve women's status in areas like marriage, adoption, and inheritance. These laws included:

• Bengal regulation of XXI, 1804 – Female infanticide was declared illegal.
• Regulation of XVII, 1829 – The practice of Sati was declared illegal.
• Hindu Widow's Remarriage Act, 1856 – This law allowed widows to remarry.
• The Native Marriage Act, 1872 – This law prohibited child marriage.
• The Sharda Act, 1930 – This act raised the age of marriage for boys and girls.
• Devadasi Abolition Act, 1947 – This act ended the Devadasi system.

🎯 Exam Tip: A detailed account requires you to cover multiple aspects of impact, including social changes, legal reforms, and changes in public sentiment. Listing specific acts and their provisions is crucial.

Samacheer Kalvi 8th Social Science Status of Women in India Through the Ages Additional Important Questions And Answers

I. Choose the Correct Answer.

Question 1. The National Commission for women was set up on January ________.
(a) 1992
(b) 1990
(c) 1991
(d) 1999
Answer: (a) 1992
In simple words: The National Commission for Women was established in January 1992. This organization works to protect and promote women's rights in India.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the founding years of important national bodies, especially those related to social welfare and rights.

Question 2. The Madras Devadasi Act was enacted on ________.
(a) 9th Oct 1947
(b) 9th Oct 1950
(c) 9th Sep 1947
(d) 9th Sep 1950
Answer: (a) 9th Oct 1947
In simple words: The Madras Devadasi Act was passed on October 9, 1947. This law helped to stop the Devadasi system, which exploited women.

🎯 Exam Tip: Specific dates for significant legislative acts are important. Make sure to remember the full date, including the day, month, and year.

Question 3. When was the Native Marriage Act passed?
(a) 1885
(b) 1930
(c) 1872
(d) 1804
Answer: (c) 1872
In simple words: The Native Marriage Act was enacted in 1872. This law played a role in regulating marriages, especially discouraging child marriages.

🎯 Exam Tip: Relate acts to their specific years. Understanding what each act aimed to achieve can help you recall the correct date.

Question 4. Who raised a voice against the Devadasi system along with Dr. Muthulakshmi Ammaiyar?
(a) Dr. S. Dharmabal
(b) Rukumani
(c) Gopal Krishna Gokhale
(d) Moovalur Ramamirdham Ammaiyar
Answer: (d) Moovalur Ramamirdham Ammaiyar
In simple words: Moovalur Ramamirdham Ammaiyar joined Dr. Muthulakshmi Ammaiyar in speaking out against the Devadasi system. They both worked to stop this harmful practice.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember key allies or collaborators in social reform movements. Often, reformers worked together to achieve their goals.

Question 5. Sati became popular during the ________.
(a) later Vedic period
(b) Medieval period
(c) Modern period
(d) None of the options
Answer: (b) Medieval period
In simple words: The practice of Sati became more widespread and common during the Medieval period. It was a dark time for women in society.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect social practices with the specific historical periods in which they were most prevalent. This helps contextualize their rise and fall.

Question 6. The Indian women's university was started in ________ by Prof. D. K. Karve.
(a) 1990
(b) 1966
(c) 1916
(d) 1918
Answer: (c) 1916
In simple words: Prof. D. K. Karve established the Indian Women's University in 1916. This university was a big step towards higher education for women in India.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to the specific year when significant educational institutions were founded, especially those for women's empowerment.

Question 7. ________ is also an inhuman practice which cuts across caste, creed, class and regional boundaries.
(a) Female foeticide
(b) Sati
(c) Female infanticide
(d) Child marriage
Answer: (a) Female foeticide
In simple words: Female foeticide, which is the killing of an unborn baby girl, is a cruel practice seen everywhere, no matter the caste, religion, or region. It is a widespread problem.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the definitions and societal impact of various social evils. Female foeticide is often highlighted for its pervasive nature across different societal divisions.

Question 8. Raja Rammohan Roy published his tracts in ________.
(a) 1818-20
(b) 1820-25
(c) 1855-85
(d) 1750-57
Answer: (a) 1818-20
In simple words: Raja Rammohan Roy shared his important writings, or tracts, between the years 1818 and 1820. These writings spread his ideas about social reform.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing the publication periods of key reformers helps understand the timeline of their influence and the spread of their ideas.

Question 9. The Child Marriage was prohibited in ________.
(a) 1827
(b) 1872
(c) 1882
(d) 1772
Answer: (b) 1872
In simple words: Child marriage was officially banned in the year 1872. This law was a major step towards protecting children from early marriages.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be mindful of the specific years when crucial social reforms, like the prohibition of child marriage, were legally implemented.

II. Fill in the Blanks.

Question 1. Charles Wood's despatch an education in 1854 laid a great stress on need for female education.
Answer: Charles Wood
In simple words: Charles Wood's report on education in 1854 strongly emphasized the importance of educating girls. His recommendations greatly influenced the future of female education in India.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect important official reports or dispatches with their authors and their main recommendations, especially concerning education.

Question 2. The word Devadasi means Servant of God.
Answer: Servant of God
In simple words: The term 'Devadasi' means 'Servant of God'. This title was originally given to women who served in temples.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing the original meaning of historical terms helps in understanding their context, even when the practice later became problematic.

Question 3. The Theosophical Society was established at Chennai by Dr. Annie Besant.
Answer: Dr. Annie Besant
In simple words: Dr. Annie Besant helped establish the Theosophical Society in Chennai. This society promoted spiritual understanding and social service.

🎯 Exam Tip: Link prominent figures to the organizations they founded or were instrumental in establishing. Annie Besant's association with the Theosophical Society is a key fact.

Question 4. The National Commission for women was set up on January 1992.
Answer: January 1992
In simple words: The National Commission for Women was created in January 1992. Its role is to work for the rights and welfare of women in the country.

🎯 Exam Tip: Specific dates for the establishment of national commissions are important. Remember both the month and year.

Question 5. Monogamy was in practice but among the rich polygamy was prevalent.
Answer: rich
In simple words: While most people practiced monogamy (one spouse), having multiple spouses (polygamy) was more common among the wealthy. This showed a difference in customs based on wealth.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the nuances of social practices and how they might vary among different economic or social classes in historical contexts.

Question 6. Among the Rajputs of Rajasthan, the Jauhar was practiced.
Answer: Jauhar
In simple words: The practice of Jauhar was common among the Rajput community in Rajasthan. This was a ritual where women would self-immolate to avoid capture by enemies.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect specific cultural practices with the communities and regions where they were historically prominent.

Question 7. D.K. Karve established a number of female schools in Poona.
Answer: D.K. Karve
In simple words: D.K. Karve founded several schools for girls in Poona (now Pune). He dedicated his life to promoting women's education.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember reformers who specifically focused on female education and the locations where they established institutions.

Question 8. Lady Harding Medical College was started in Delhi.
Answer: Lady Harding Medical College
In simple words: The Lady Harding Medical College was opened in Delhi. This college was important for training women in medicine.

🎯 Exam Tip: Important institutions, especially medical colleges, and their locations are facts worth remembering for general knowledge.

Question 9. Female infanticide was afflicting the nineteenth century Indian society.
Answer: nineteenth
In simple words: The harmful practice of female infanticide (killing baby girls) was a serious problem in Indian society during the nineteenth century. Many people worked to stop it during that time.

🎯 Exam Tip: Associate social evils with the centuries or periods when they were particularly widespread or when significant efforts were made to combat them.

Question 10. Akbar prohibited child marriage.
Answer: child marriage
In simple words: Emperor Akbar made a rule against child marriage. He tried to stop this practice in his empire.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember historical rulers who enacted social reforms and what specific practices they tried to prohibit or promote.

Question 11. Raja Rammohan Roy was the pioneer of the Indian social reform movement.
Answer: Raja Rammohan Roy
In simple words: Raja Rammohan Roy was the first and most important leader to start the social reform movement in India. He began many efforts to change society for the better.

🎯 Exam Tip: The term "pioneer" suggests a foundational role. Ensure you correctly identify the individual who initiated such significant movements.

Question 12. Narayana Chandra set an example to others by marrying a widow of his choice.
Answer: Narayana Chandra
In simple words: Narayana Chandra showed courage by marrying a widow of his choice, setting an example for others during a time when widow remarriage was not common. This act inspired many.

🎯 Exam Tip: Sometimes specific examples of individuals performing reformative acts are highlighted. Remember such names and their actions.

Question 13. The spread of female education led to several other social reforms.
Answer: female education
In simple words: When more girls and women started getting educated, it led to many other good changes in society. Education for women often brings about wider social improvements.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the cause-and-effect relationships in social history. Female education is a well-known catalyst for broader social reforms.

Question 14. Dr. S. Dharmambal was another reformer who was very much influenced by the ideas of Periyar.
Answer: Dr. S. Dharmambal
In simple words: Dr. S. Dharmambal was a reformer who was greatly inspired by Periyar's ideas. She followed his thoughts on social equality and reform.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify key figures who were influenced by or associated with major reformers like Periyar, as this shows the spread of influential ideas.

Question 15. The Native Marriage Act was passed in 1872.
Answer: 1872
In simple words: The Native Marriage Act became a law in the year 1872. This act aimed to bring changes to marriage customs among Indians.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the specific year associated with important acts related to social customs like marriage. Precision in dates is often tested.

III. Match the Following.

Question 1. Match the following.

🎯 Exam Tip: To master matching questions, create a mental timeline of key social reforms and the specific year or act associated with each. This helps differentiate similar dates.

IV. State True or False.

Question 1. Women were honoured in Rig Vedic period.
Answer: True
In simple words: During the Rig Vedic times, women were respected and treated well in society. This period saw women having a good standing.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember key facts about women's status in different historical periods, especially during Vedic times.

Question 2. The minimum marriageable age for a girl was only 18 years in 1846
Answer: False
In simple words: In 1846, the minimum age for girls to get married was not 18 years. It was much lower than that.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay close attention to dates and specific ages when answering questions about social reforms and laws.

Question 3. Niccolo Conti, who visited Vijayanagar was a French traveler.
Answer: False
In simple words: Niccolo Conti visited Vijayanagar, but he was not from France. He was an Italian traveler.

🎯 Exam Tip: Accurately recall the nationality of famous historical figures and travelers. This is a common point of confusion.

Question 4. Female infanticide was declared illegal
Answer: True
In simple words: It is true that female infanticide, the act of killing baby girls, was made against the law. This was an important step to protect girls.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand which social evils were abolished and when, as these are important historical milestones.

Question 5. Female Foeticide was afflicting the 19th Century, Hindi Society.
Answer: False
In simple words: It is not correct that female foeticide mostly troubled Hindi society in the 19th century. This issue affected many different communities.

🎯 Exam Tip: Avoid making assumptions about the specific communities affected by social evils. Many issues were widespread.

V. Choose the correct statement.

Question 1. i) Mughal ruler Akbar attempted to abolish sati.
ii) Raja Rammohan Roy's efforts led to the abolition of sati in 1829.
iii) Periyar E.V.R, crusade for the improvement in the condition of widows, led to the passing of Widow Remarriage Act in 1856.
(a) i only
(b) i and ii
(c) ii and iii
(d) iii only
Answer: (b) i and ii
In simple words: Both Akbar tried to stop sati, and Raja Rammohan Roy's work helped end sati in 1829. However, Periyar E.V.R. was not directly involved in passing the Widow Remarriage Act of 1856.

🎯 Exam Tip: When evaluating multiple statements, break down each part and check its historical accuracy. Don't mix up the contributions of different reformers.

Question 2. Find the odd one out.
(a) Begum Hazrat Mahal
(b) Rani Lakshmi Bhai of Jhansi
(c) Velunachiyar
(d) Dr. S. Dharmambal
Answer: (d) Dr. S. Dharmambal
In simple words: Begum Hazrat Mahal, Rani Lakshmi Bhai of Jhansi, and Velunachiyar were all queens who fought against the British. Dr. S. Dharmambal, however, was a social reformer and doctor, not a warrior queen.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the common category that links most options, then find the one that doesn't fit the pattern.

VI. Answer the following in one or two sentences.

Question 1. State the condition of women in the Later Vedic age.
Answer: In the Later Vedic age, the role of women in social life became more restricted. The patriarchal system, where men held power, became stronger, and women were not allowed to study holy books. The practice of Sati also became common during this time.
In simple words: During the Later Vedic age, women had fewer roles in society and faced more restrictions. They could not study scriptures, and Sati became popular.

🎯 Exam Tip: Contrast the status of women in the Early Vedic period (more freedom) with the Later Vedic period (more restrictions) for a complete understanding.

Question 2. What does the term female foeticide mean?
Answer: Female foeticide is a cruel practice where a female fetus is killed before birth. This act is considered inhumane and affects people across different castes, religions, and regions. The government has made laws to stop both female foeticide and sex determination before birth.
In simple words: Female foeticide means killing a baby girl before she is born. It is a very wrong act and is against the law.

🎯 Exam Tip: Define social evils clearly and concisely, including their negative impacts and any legislative measures taken against them.

Question 3. Write a short note on Madras Devadasi Act.
Answer: The Madras Devadasi Act was a law passed on December 9, 1947, to stop the Devadasi system. This act made it illegal to dedicate girls to temples and also gave these girls the legal right to marry. This helped them live a normal life.
In simple words: The Madras Devadasi Act, passed in 1947, made it illegal to dedicate girls to temples. It gave these women the right to marry and live freely.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note the key date and the main provisions of significant social reform acts, especially how they changed the lives of affected groups.

Question 4. Write a note on Jauhar.
Answer: Jauhar was a historical practice where wives and daughters of defeated Rajput warriors would collectively set themselves on fire. They did this willingly to avoid being captured and dishonored by enemy forces. It was seen as a way to protect their dignity.
In simple words: Jauhar was an old practice where Rajput women would burn themselves to death. They did this to escape capture and protect their honor when their husbands lost battles.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the historical context and the social reasons behind practices like Jauhar, rather than just memorizing the definition.

Question 5. What is the role of Akbar in Child marriage?
Answer: Emperor Akbar tried to stop child marriage in his empire. He made it compulsory for parents to get approval before marrying off their children. He set the minimum age for marriage at 14 for girls and 16 for boys to ensure they were mature enough. This was an early attempt to protect children.
In simple words: Akbar did not allow child marriage. He made rules that girls had to be at least 14 and boys 16 to marry, and parents needed permission.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the efforts of historical rulers in social reform, as their influence often shaped societal norms.

VII. Answer the following.

Question 1. State the role of women in Independent India?
Answer: In independent India, women have played many important roles across various fields like education, politics, healthcare, and science. The Indian Constitution guarantees equal opportunities and equal pay for them. To further empower women, the National Policy for Empowerment of Women was introduced, and programmes like Mahila Samakhya were launched. Women also have 33% reservation in local self-governing bodies to improve their social and political standing.
In simple words: Women in independent India work in many areas like education and politics. The country's rules give them equal chances and pay. Special plans and reservations help them gain more power and respect.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the constitutional provisions, government policies, and key areas where women have made significant contributions in independent India.

Question 2. State the position of women in British period.
Answer: During the British period, many individuals, social reform groups, and religious organizations worked hard to improve the condition of women. They focused on spreading education among women and encouraging widow remarriage. Efforts were made to improve living conditions for widows, prevent child marriages, and bring women out of the Purdah system. They also worked to establish monogamy and help middle-class women pursue professions and public employment, giving them more independence.
In simple words: In the British period, reformers worked to educate women and promote widow remarriage. They also tried to stop child marriage and Purdah, helping women get jobs and lead better lives.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the specific social evils that reformers targeted during the British period and the key areas of improvement they aimed for.