A topper · GS1 · 52 pages

Aryan Yadav: GS1 answer copy

20 answers by Aryan Yadav, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

  1. Q1What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the features are still prevailing in Indian society?10 marks
  2. Q2The synthesis of Islamic architectural styles with elements from local Indian traditions contributed to the development of Indo-Islamic architecture in India. Discuss.10 marks
  3. Q3What were the reasons behind the relative peace and lack of major international conflicts during the 1920s?10 marks
  4. Q4Discuss the significance of the 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests as a transformative moment in India's post-independence history.10 marks
  5. Q5What were the reasons that the British emerged as the preeminent power after succeeding against other European powers in the Indian subcontinent?10 marks
  6. Q6"The very policy that was meant to further subjugate Indians catalyzed free thought and questioned the notion of British superiority." Discuss in the context of British education policy in colonial India.10 marks
  7. Q7How far do you agree with the view that Stalinism was just a continuation of Leninism?10 marks
  8. Q8The revolt of 1857 was far more than a mutiny, yet much less than the first war of independence. Do you agree? Substantiate your views.10 marks
  9. Q9Unemployment is not just an economic challenge, but a social one with far-reaching consequences. In this context, discuss the social impact of unemployment in the country.10 marks
  10. Q10"The socio-cultural consequences of the contact between tribal and non-tribal populations are complex and multifaceted." Examine.10 marks
  11. Q11Differentiate between the Nagara and Dravida styles of temple architecture. Explain how the Vesara architectural style creatively amalgamated architectural elements of both, while introducing innovative elements of its own.15 marks
  12. Q12Identify the key reasons behind British colonial intervention in Malaya in the 19th century. How did Malaya react to British colonial rule?15 marks
  13. Q13The integration of the Princely States into the Indian Union after partition involved overcoming significant administrative and socio-cultural hurdles. Discuss the statement with special emphasis on the integration of Hyderabad. Also, throw light on the role of Sardar Patel in the integration process.15 marks
  14. Q14Non-Cooperation-Khilafat Movement was a watershed event in the Indian freedom struggle, but it suffered from inherent limitations. Elaborate.15 marks
  15. Q15The Bhakti movement, emphasizing 'personal connection' to the divine, had a profound impact on various aspects of Indian society. Highlighting the main features of the Bhakti movement, discuss its contribution towards the development of vernacular languages across the country.15 marks
  16. Q16Discuss the developments in the field of art and architecture during the Mauryan period.15 marks
  17. Q17The German unification was achieved more by 'coal and iron' than by 'blood and iron'. Examine.15 marks
  18. Q18How do conventional gender roles and responsibilities make women more susceptible to the impacts of extreme heat conditions? What measures would you suggest reducing these vulnerabilities?15 marks
  19. Q19"The changing nature of revolutionary extremism in the Indian national movement reflects a broader shift in political consciousness." Substantiate.15 marks
  20. Q20While there are extensive policies focused on equity and social justice, yet the underprivileged sections are deprived of full benefits of affirmative action guaranteed by the Constitution. Comment.15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 152 words written

What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the features are still prevailing in Indian society?

Opening · a date or context

The vedic period occured in India during 1500-500 BC being divided into 2 phases Early vedic (Rigvedic) & later vedic periods.

Body · points

Main Feautres of Vedic Society & Religion

Early Vedic

  1. Worshipped nature personified as gods ⇒ Indra, Agni, Varuna etc
  2. Fluid varna system was present
  3. Pastoral lifestyle was common
  4. Women were treated with dignity & respect

Later Vedic

  1. New gods like Bhrama, Vishnu etc. emerged
  2. Varna System become rigid
  3. Domination of Bhramin priests, complex rituals become prevalent
  4. Women's position eroded ⇒ couldn't participate in Sabhas
  5. Agricultural, settled lifestyle become prevalent

Feautres Still prevailing in Indian Society

  1. Hereditary caste system, especialy in rural areas
  2. Worship of gods like Vishnu, Bhrama remains part of Hinduism
  3. Respect for cattle is part of Hindu religion
  4. Agriculture is prevalent ⇒ 45% of workforce

Close · a summary

Hence Vedic period left deep imprint on Indian society & religion