AIR 123 · CSE 2022 · GS1 · 55 pages

Shreya Tyagi: GS1 answer copy

21 answers by Shreya Tyagi, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

  1. Q1How does the study of numismatics contribute to the unraveling of India's history? Explain with suitable examples.10 marks
  2. Q2Analyse the significance of the Civil Disobedience Movement in India's freedom struggle, considering its extent, reach, and revolutionary zeal.10 marks
  3. Q3How did the British education policy in colonial India fuel the rise of Indian nationalism instead of achieving its intended purpose of perpetuating Indian subjugation?10 marks
  4. Q4The Arab-Israeli conflict should be understood as a product of both internal dynamics and the outcome of manipulative strategies employed by imperial powers. Comment.10 marks
  5. Q5The eastern coast and the western coast of India differ considerably in their geographical characteristics. Explain.10 marks
  6. Q6Enumerate the factors behind the proliferation of the IT industry in India. Also, Explain the reasons behind the skewed concentration of the IT industry within the country.10 marks
  7. Q7The Aspirational Blocks Programme, built upon the success of the Aspirational Districts Programme, can help in achieving the twin objectives of enabling balanced growth and checking stressed migration. Comment.10 marks
  8. Q8Even after seven decades of independence, the colonial mindset continues to cast its shadow on Indian society. Examine.10 marks
  9. Q9Digital technologies can play a significant role in bridging the gender gap in India; however, it is mired in its own set of challenges. Discuss.10 marks
  10. Q10How will you explain that the values of tolerance and inclusiveness which were deeply embedded in ancient Indian society continue to persist and flourish in the present times?10 marks
  11. Q11Dravidian temple architecture can be seen as a continuum that, though strengthened during the period of the Pallavas, reached its pinnacle during the reign of the Cholas. Discuss15 marks
  12. Q12Examine the causes that led to tribal unrest during British rule in India. Analyse the reasons for their limited success.15 marks
  13. Q13While the Emergency of 1975 was touted as seminal for national security and unity by some, the critics paint it as the darkest phase of Post Independent India. Discuss. What insights and lessons did emergency provide for the country?15 marks
  14. Q14Mangroves play a significant role in coastal ecology and economy. Examine. Also, elaborate the reasons behind the accelerated destruction of the mangrove habitat.15 marks
  15. Q15Write an explanatory note on the global distribution of earthquakes with the help of the map given below. Also, throw light on the various consequences associated with earthquakes.15 marks
  16. Q16Although poor air quality is a perennial problem, it gets intensified during the winter months in Delhi-NCR. Explain. Evaluate the efficacy of existing measures to control air pollution.15 marks
  17. Q17Enumerate the major reasons that make the Indian economy heavily reliant on coal. Explain why phasing out coal from our energy basket is difficult.15 marks
  18. Q18In what ways are the institutions of marriage and family undergoing changes in contemporary times? Elucidate the role of the state and the market in facilitating these changes.15 marks
  19. Q19How do unplanned urbanization and unabated rural-urban migration contribute to the multiple woes faced by Indian metropolises?15 marks
  20. Q20The forces of globalization have an indelible influence on the traditional cultural values of Indian society. Elaborate. Also, discuss the impact of globalization on diversity and disparity in the country.15 marks
  21. Q20(a)a)

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 280 words written

How does the study of numismatics contribute to the unraveling of India's history? Explain with suitable examples.

Opening · a definition

Numismatics, the study of coins, acts as a primary source for reconstructing the political, economic, and cultural history of ancient and medieval India. Unlike literary texts, which may be biased or legendary, coins offer concrete, contemporaneous evidence.

Body · points

Contribution to Historical Understanding:

  1. Political History and Chronology:

    • Coins often feature the names, titles, and portraits of kings, helping in constructing dynastic genealogies.
    • Example: The coins of the Indo-Greeks (like Menander I) provide the only evidence for many of their rulers. Gupta gold coins (dinara) depict Samudragupta playing the veena, highlighting his personal interests and achievements.

  2. Economic History:

    • The metal content (gold, silver, copper, lead) indicates the economic prosperity of the state. Debasement of coins often signals economic decline.
    • Example: The purity of gold coins issued by the Kushanas indicates robust trade with the Roman Empire. Conversely, the scarcity of currency in the post-Gupta period suggests a decline in trade.

  3. Geographical Reach (Extent of Empire):

    • The distribution of coin hoards helps map the territorial extent of a kingdom.
    • Example: Satavahana coins found in the Deccan and Western India delineate their administrative influence and maritime trade links.

  4. Religious and Cultural Inclinations:

    • Depictions of deities (e.g., Shiva, Buddha, Lakshmi) on coins reflect the religious leanings of the kings.
    • Example: Kanishka’s coins bear figures of various Iranian, Greek, and Indian deities, reflecting his cosmopolitan outlook and religious tolerance.

  5. Art and Craftsmanship:

    • Coins serve as miniature sculptures, reflecting the artistic progress and technological skill of the era.

Close · a summary

Conclusion: Thus, numismatics provides a vital framework for cross-verifying literary sources and filling gaps in India’s historical narrative, making it an indispensable tool for historians.