1. What measures have been taken by the Government of India for the protection and preservation of historic monuments and relics? What are the responsibilities of the Archaeological Survey of India in this regard? There have been recent reports of serious damage to the world’s famous Taj Mahal at Agra. What are the reasons for the damage? What steps are being taken to protect and preserve the Taj Mahal? 1985
2. What are the basic differences between Mughal style of painting and the Rajput style of painting? (About 50 words) 1985
3. Point out the chief characteristics of the architecture of any two of the following: (About 30 words for each) 1985
   1. Temples of Khajuraho
   2. Taj Mahal
   3. Victoria Memorial
4. Write a note on the origin and development of Oriental Art. 1986
5. What were the new elements introduced by the Muslim rulers in the development of Indian architecture? (About 50 words) 1987
6. Evaluate the chief characteristics of any two of the following : (About 50 words for each) 1988
   1. Gandhara School of Art
   2. Rock-cut temple architecture
   3. Chola architecture
7. Write about the chief characteristics of the following: 1989
   1. Carnatic music
   2. Kishangarh style of painting
   3. Nagara style of architecture
   4. Neo-art movement of Rabindranath Tagore
8. Kangra School of Painting 1990
9. Chandella school of architecture 1991
10. Sunga art 1992
11. Write about the chief feature of the following: 1993
    1. Mathura School of Art
    2. Bundi School of Painting
    3. Mughal Architecture at Fatehpur Sikri
12. Write about Gandhara School of Art. 1994
13. Write about Dravidian architecture. 1995
14. Write about the chief features of the following: 1996
    • Town Planning in the Indus Valley Civilization
15. Write about Ahmadiya Movement 1996
16. Write about Chaitya 1997
17. Write about Vijayanagara Art 1997
18. Write about Kulu School 1998
19. Write about Gopuram 1998
20. Write about Chola Architecture 1999
21. Write about Gandhara school of art 2000
22. Write about Saranath Pillar 2003
23. Write about Gandhara Art. (20 words) 2007
24. Write about : Maski. 2009
25. While bringing out their salient features, distinguish between either ‘Madhubani’ Art and ‘Manjusha’ Art or ’Rajasthani’ schools of painting and the ’Pahari’ school of Painting. 2010
26. What are the major different styles of unglazed pottery making in India? 2011
27. The ’flute – playing Krishna’ theme is very popular in Indian art. Discuss. (150 words) 2012
28. Comment on the significance of Rasarnava in studying the history of Indian Chemistry. (50 words) 2012
29. Comment on the significance of fire in Zoroastrianism. (50 words) 2012
30. Chola architecture represents a high watermark in the evolution of temple architecture. Discuss (100 words) 2013
31. To what extent has the urban planning and culture of the Indus Valley Civilization provided inputs to the present day urbanization? Discuss. 2014
32. Gandhara Sculpture owed as much to the Romans as to the Greeks. Explain. 2014
33. The ancient civilization in Indian sub-continent differed from those of Egypt, Mesopotamia and Greece in that its culture and traditions have been preserved without a breakdown to the present day. Comment. 2015

34. Mesolithic rock cut architecture of India not only reflects the cultural life of the times but also a fine aesthetic sense comparable to modern painting. Critically evaluate this comment. 2015
35. Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives successfully expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate. 2016
36. How do you justify the view that the level of excellence of the Gupta numismatic art is not at all noticeable in later times? 2017
37. Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the moment. Discuss. 2018
38. Highlight the Central Asian and Greco-Bactrian elements in Gandhara art. 2019
39. What makes Indian society unique in sustaining its culture? Discuss 2019
40. The rock-cut architecture represents one of the most important sources of our knowledge of early Indian art and history. Discuss. 2020
41. Pala period is the most significant phase in the history of Buddhism in India. Enumerate. 2020
42. Indian philosophy and tradition played a significant role in conceiving and shaping the monuments and their art in India. Discuss. 2020
43. How will you explain that Medieval Indian temple sculptures represent the social life of those days? 2022
44. Discuss the main contributions of Gupta period and Chola period to Indian heritage and culture. 2022
45. Discuss the significance of the lion and bull figures in Indian mythology, art and architecture. 2022
46. Explain the role of geographical factors towards the development of Ancient India. 2023

1. Though not very useful from the point of view of a connected political history of South India, the Sangam literature portrays the social and economic conditions of its time with remarkable vividness. Comment 2013
2. Krishnadeva Raya, the King of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar himself but was also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss. 2016
3. Assess the importance of the accounts of the Chinese and Arab travellers in the reconstruction of the history of India. 2018
4. Persian literary sources of medieval India reflect the spirit of the age. Comment. 2020
5. Evaluate the nature of Bhakti Literature and its contribution to Indian culture. 2021

1. Which are the classical dances of India? Where did they originate? Name one distinguished dancer (who is living) of each school of classical dance. Are the efforts adequate for promotion for such dances in India? If not, what further measures would you suggest for the promotion of classical dances. 1980
2. In which regions of India did the following dances originate? 1981
   1. Bhangra
   2. Garba
   3. Mohiniattam
   4. Kathak
   5. Bamboo dance 
3. Who wrote the play – Ghasiram Kotwal? 1982
4. What instrument does Ustad Amjad Aii Khan play? 1982
5. Where did the following folk dances/songs originate? What are their usual themes ? 1983
   1. Kathakeertans also known as Harikatha and Kathakata
   2. Gldda
   3. Baul
   4. Chhau
   5. Yakshagana
6. With which regions of India are the following dances associated? 1984
   1. Odissi
   2. Kuchipudi
   3. Kathakali
   4. Manipuri
   5. Kathak
7. What efforts have been made to develop theatre in India? Name any two important persons associated with the development of this art. 1985
8. What are the main contributions of the following to the enrichment of Indian music? (Not more than two sentences for each) 1985
   1. Amir Khusrau
   2. Tansen
   3. Mohammad Shah Rangile
   4. Thyagaraja
   5. Ravi Shankar.
9. With which State are the following folk dances associated? 1985
   1. Dandi Ras
   2. Bhangra
   3. Mauni
   4. Bhavai    
   5. Nautanki
10. Where did the following traditional Folk Theatres originate? 1985
    1. Yatrai
    2. Tamasha
    3. Kuttiyatam
    4. Bhavai
    5. Nautanki
11. What are the main forms of classical dance in India? Indicate two features of each. 1988
12. Chief Characteristics : Classical Music 1990
13. Chief Charactenstics : Bharat Natyam 1991
14. Write short notes : Manipur dance. 1991
15. Write about Kathakali. 1992
16. Write about Indian Ballet 1994
17. Write about Khayal 1997
18. Write about Yakshagana 1997, 2006, 2007
19. Write about Perini Shivatandavam. 2008
20. List the salient features of the important folk dances of either Central India or North Eastern India. 2009
21. What are the important similarities and differences between the Hindustani and the Carnatic styles of classical music? 2009
22. Write a sentence each on any five of the following traditional theatre forms 2011
    1. Bhand Pather
    2. Swang
    3. Maach
    4. Bhaona
    5. Mudiyettu
    6. Dashavatar
23. List the classical dance forms of India as per the Sangeet Natak Akademi. 2011
24. What are the groups into which musical instruments in India have traditionally been classified ? (50 words) 2012
25. Bagurumba folk dance. (20 words) 2012
26. The ‘flute-playing Krishna’ theme is very popular in Indian art. Discuss. (150 words) 2012
27. Discuss the Tandava’ dance as recorded in early Indian inscriptions. (100 words) 2013

1. In which State/States of India are the following festivals celebrated by a large number of people ? 1981
   1. Baisakhi
   2. Rath Yatra
   3. Bihu
   4. Pongal
   5. Onam

2. What is the significance of Kumbh fair ? Where are they heid ? 1987
3. Write about the Shab-i-Barat 1990, 1995
4. Write about the Baisakhi 1991, 1999
5. Write about the Janmashtami 1991
6. Write about the Ram Navami 1992
7. Write about the Dev Devali 1994
8. Write about the Ganesh Chaturthi 1995
9. Distinguish either between the ‘Moatsu’ and ‘Yemshe’ festivals of Nagaland or the Losar and Khan festivals of Arunachal Pradesh. 2011

1. Describe briefly the contribution of any seven of the following to the life and thought of modern India (about 40 words each): 1979
   1. Vivekananda
   2. Sri Aurobindo
   3. Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
   4. Dayanand Saraswati
   5. Bal GangadharTilak
   6. Mirza Ghalib
   7. Homi Bhabha
   8. Sarojini Naidu
   9. C. V. Raman
   10. Lala Lajpat Rai

2. Describe briefly the impact of the following on India (about 40 words each) 1979
   1. Leo Tolstoy
   2. Kemal Ataturk
   3. Karl Marx

3. Write brief notes on the following (about 30 words each) :1979
   1. Mother Teressa
   2. Rukmani Devi Arundale
   3. Kamaladevi Chattopadhyaya
   4. Faiz Ahmed Faiz
   5. B. P. Koirala
   6. Ne Win
   7. Moshe Dayan
   8. M. C. Chagla
   9. R. K. Narayan
   10. J. R. D. Tata (about 30 words each)

4. Describe the main contributions of Jai Prakash Narayan to Indian society & politics. (200 words) 1979
5. Name the Indian Scientists who have won the Noble Prize and their work. 1979
6. Who are the following and what have been their contribution to the life and thought of India? 1982
   1. Thyagaraja
   2. Vallathal Narayana Menon
   3. Nand Lai Bose
   4. Purushottam Das Tandon
   5. Sir Syed Ahmad

7. To which dynasty did the kings, who built the temples at Khajuraho, belong? To whom were the temples dedicated. Name the temple, which occupies the pride of place there. (Not more than 50 words) 1983
8. Why was Sardar Patel described as Bismarck of India? 1983
9. Who were the following and why were they so well known? (Not more than two sentences on each) 1986
   1. Henry Vivian Derozio
   2. Bhulabhai Desai
   3. Jyotiba Phule
   4. V. D. Savarkar
   5. Rashbehari Ghose

10. Who were the following and why are they so well – known ? (Not more than two sentences for each) 1987
    1. Sir William Jones
    2. M. R. Jaykar
    3. Pandita Rama Bai
    4. K. Kamraj
    5. M. N. Roy

11. What is the contribution of the following to the cultural life of India? (One sentence for each) 1987
    1. CO Ramanuj
    2. Shaikh Moinuddin ChishtiShyagaraja
    3. Vishnu Digambar Paluskar
    4. Raja Ravi Verma
    5. Amrita Shergill
    6. Ram Kinker Vaij
    7. Sonal Man Singh
    8. Sanyukta Panigrahi
    9. Prithvi Raj Kapoor

12. Who wrote our National Anthem ? When, where and on what occasion was it sung for the first time ? When was it accepted as our National Anthem? 1987
13. Explain the contributions of the following to the social life of India : (One sentence for each) 1988
    • Ela Bhatt
    • M. G. Ranade
    • Acharya Narendra Dev
    • Madan Mohan Malaviya
    • Narayana Guru
    • Birsa Munda
    • Baba Amte
    • Malati Devi Chowdhury
    • Dr. Zakir Hussain
    • C. N. Annadurai
14. Explain the significance of the Alwar Saints in the socio¬ religious context ? 1988
15. Why have the following become famous ? 1989
    1. Subrahamania Bharati
    2. M. A. Ansari
    3. Chapekar Brothers
    4. Panna Lai Patel
    5. Khudiram Bose

16. Why have the following become famous ? 1990
    1. Kunwar Singh
    2. S. H. Slocum
    3. P. Ananda Charu
    4. K. M. Munshi
    5. Muzaffar Ahmed
17. Why have the following become famous ? 1991
    1. S. A. Dange
    2. C. Sankaran Nair
    3. Titu Mir
    4. Theodore Beck
    5. Edwin Lutyens
18. Why have the following become famous? 1992
    1. M. A. Ansari
    2. P. C. Joshi
    3. Indulal Yagnik
    4. Lord Pethwick Lawrence
    5. Sree Narayan Guru
    6. Nandlal Bose
19. Why have the following become famous? 1993
    1. C. Ilbert
    2. John Simon
    3. Ramsay Macdonald
    4. Wavell
20. Why have the following become famous? 1994
    1. N. G. Ranga
    2. C. Y. Chintamani
    3. Sir William Wedderburn
    4. Narendra Dev
    5. M. R. Jayakar
    6. Madan Lai Dhingra
21. Why have the following become famous? 1995
    1. Bhai Parmanand
    2. Dr. Satyapal
    3. Vasudeo Balwant Phadke
    4. George Yule
    5. N. C. Kelkar
    6. C. F. Andrews
22. Why have the following been famous ? 1996
    1. Bhartendu Harish Chandra
    2. C. Rajagopalachari
    3. A. O. Hume
    4. Birsa Munda
23. Why have the following become famous ? 1997
    1. Shyamji Krishnavarma
    2. RaniGaidinliu
    3. Saifuddin Kitchlew
    4. Dr. Nivedita Bhasin
24. Why have the following become famous ? 1998
    1. Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan
    2. Seth Jamnalal Bajaj
    3. S. Satyamurti
    4. Udham Singh
    5. Sarojini Naidu
25. Explain the following:
    1. Nelson Mandela
    2. BacharuddinJusul Habibie
    3. E. M. S. Namboodripad 1998
26. Why have the following become famous ? 1999
    1. Rammanohar Lohia
    2. C. Y. Chintamani
    3. Henry Cotton
    4. Tej Bahadur Sapru
    5. Veeresalingam P. K.
    6. Bhulabhai Desai
    7. Kamladevi Chattopadhyay
27. Answer the following: 2000
    1. Brahmagupta
    2. William Jones
    3. Narayan Guru
    4. Amir Khusro
    5. C. F. Andrews
    6. Tantia Tope
    7. Sayyid Ahmad
    8. Margaret Noble
28. Write about the following: 2000
    1. Baba Amte
    2. Ali Sardar Jafri
    3. Arena Roy
29. Answer the following: 2001
    1. Aryabhatta
    2. J. Krishnamurthy
    3. Banabhatta
    4. Pupul Jaykar
    5. Jaydeva
    6. Ali Brothers
    7. D. K. Karve
    8. Jamnalal Bajaj
    9. Gopi Kishna
    10. Mohammad Iqbal
    11. T. Prakasam
30. Write about the following: 2002
    1. KeshabChandra Sen
    2. Nivedita
    3. Raidasa
    4. Theodore Beck
31. Write about the following (not exceeding 20 words each): 2003
    1. Sajjad Zahir
    2. Har Dayal
    3. Indu Lai Yajnik
    4. Achhut Patwardhan
    5. Sir William Jones
    6. James Wilson
32. Write about the following: 2004
    1. Mirza Haidar
    2. Muhammad Barkatullah
    3. Sohan Singh Bhakna
    4. Alluri Sitaramaraju
    5. Canjeevaram Natrajan Annadurai
    6. Jadong
    7. Jadunath Sarkar
    8. Nazir Hasan
    9. Subhash Gupte
    10. Acharya Nirmalya
    11. Jyotirao Phule
33. Write about the following:
    1. Nizamuddin Auliya
    2. Raidas
    3. Jagat Seth
    4. Baba Ram Chandra
    5. Pandita Ramabai
    6. Sr Thomas Roe
    7. Tavernier 2005
34. Write about the following: 2004
    1. Mirza Haidar
    2. Muhammad Barkatullah
    3. Sohan Singh Bhakna
    4. Alluri Sitaramaraju
    5. Canjeevaram Natrajan Annadurai
    6. Jadong
    7. Jadunath Sarkar
    8. Nazir Hasan
    9. Subhash Gupte
    10. Acharya Nirmalya
    11. Jyotirao Phule
35. Write about the following: 2005
    1. Nizamuddin Auliya
    2. Raidas
    3. Jagat Seth
    4. Baba Ram Chandra
    5. Pandita Ramabai
    6. Sr Thomas Roe
    7. Tavernier
36. Write about the following: 2006
    1. Kalhana
    2. Panini
    3. Madhura Vijayam
    4. Pandurang Mahatmya
    5. Ali Sardar Jafri
    6. Aruna Roy
    7. J.C. Daniel
    8. Jayant Narlikar
    9. Balwant Gargi
37. Write about the following: 2007
    1. Megatheres
    2. C. Dutt.
    3. Nagarjuna Konda
    4. Rudramadev
38. Writs about Lakshmi Bai, Rani of Jhansi in about 20 words (08/I/2a/2)
39. Write about Lala Hardayal in 20 words. 2008
40. Write about Megasthenes in 20 words. 2008
41. Write about Ailasani Peddanain 20 words. 2008
42. Write about : Govind Guru. 2009
43. Write about : Taji Mideren 2009
44. Write brief note on Contribubons of Latika Ghosh to the freedom struggle. 2010
45. Write brief note on Bhai Maharaj Singh as a freedom Fighter. 2010
46. In the context of the freedom struggle, write short note (not exceeding 50 words) : ‘ Benoy – Badal -Dinesh’ martyrdom. 2011
47. Why is Laurie Baker called The conscience keeper of Indian architecture’ ? (50 words) 2012
48. Defying the barriers of age, gender and religion, the Indian women became the torch-bearer during the struggle for freedom in India. Discuss. (200 words) 2013
49. Several foreigners made India their homeland and participated in various movements. Analyze their role in the Indian struggle for freedom. (200 words) 2013
50. Discuss the contributions of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad to pre- and post- independent India. (200 words) 2013
51. The Bhakti Movement received a remarkable re-orientation with the advent of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Discuss. 2018

1. Indicate theareas in which majority of people belonging to the following tribes reside: 1981
   1. Angamis
   2. Bhils
   3. Gonds
   4. Khasis
   5. Santhals
2. In which State/Union Territory do the majority of the people belonging to the following tribes reside? 1983
   1. Onges
   2. Apatanis
   3. Oraon
   4. Bhds
   5. Jarwas
3. Which country is pioneer in starting an Open University? How is the scheme implemented ? What are the main problems to be faced by the Open University in India? (About 150 words) 1986
4. Write about the chief features of the following :
   1. Qiaitya
   2. KhayaL
5. Write about the following (not exceeding 20 words each): 2005
   1. Yajnavalkya Smriti
   2. Sutta Pitaka
   3. Bhagawati Sutra
   4. Gangaikonda-Cholapuram
   5. Moplah RebellioN
6. Write about the following (in about 20 words each): 2007
   1. Charvakas
   2. Bhakb
   3. Ajivikas
   4. Mlechchhas
   5. Lingayats
   6. Pastoralism
   7. Sab
7. Write about Bodhisattva. 2008
8. Write about Chishti Silsila. 2008
9. write about. ‘Brahmadeya’. 2009
10. Write about: ‘Marumakkathayam’ 2009
11. Problems specific to the denotified and nomadic tribes in India. Examine, (in about 150 words) 2011
12. Taxila University wasone of the oldest universities of the world with which were associated a number of renowned learned personalibes of different disciplines. Its strategic location caused its fame to flourish, but unlike Nalanda, it is not considered as a university in modem sense. Discuss. 2014
13. Sufis and medieval mysric saints failed to modify either the religious ideas and practices or the outward structure of Hindu/Muslim societies to any appreciable extent. Comment. 2014
14. Examine the uniqueness of tribal knowledge system when compared with mainstream knowledge and cultural systems. ( 150 words) 2021
15. What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the features are still prevailing in Indian society? 2023
16. What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period? How did those technological changes influence the Indian society? 2023

1. The Indian independence movement was a mass-based movement that encompassed various sections of society. It also underwent the process of constant ideological evolution.’ Critically examine. (250 words) 2012
2. Highlight the importance of the new objectives that got added to the vision of Indian Independence since the twenties of the last century. (250 words) 2017
3. Since the decade of the 1920s, the national movement acquired various ideological strands and thereby expanded its social base. Discuss. (Answer in 250 words) 2020

1. ‘What began as a fight for religion ended as a war of independence, for there is not the slightest doubt that the rebels wanted to get rid of the alien government and restore the old order of which the king of Delhi was the rightful  ‘ Do you support this viewpoint ? 1999
2. What administrative changes were introduced in India after 1858 ? What were the objectives of these changes? 2001
3. Explain how the Uprising of 1857 constitutes an important watershed in the evolution of British policies towards colonial India. 2016
4. The 1857 Uprising was the culmination of the recurrent big and small local rebellions that had occurred in the preceding hundred years of British rule. Elucidate. 2019

1. The second half of the nineteenth century witnessed in India a strong wave of reformation in the spheres of religion and society. What part was played in this directly or indirectly by Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Keshab Chandra Sen and Justice M. G. Ranade? 1980
2. The Caste system and the practice of untouchability were major targets of attack from the social reform movement, which grew in strength after the revolt of 185Indicate the main factors which gradually undermined the caste system and brought into sharp focus the evils of untouchability. What was the role of Mahatma Gandhi in the eradication of untouchability and to what extent did he influence the framers of the constitution and Government policy in this regard? What further steps should be taken to wipe out untouchability? (in 200 words) 1981
3. The nineteenth century Is generally called a period of Indian Renaissance. Which were the major social reform movements of this period and what changes did they bring about ? (Not more than 200 words) 1984
4. Discuss the major social reform movements of the second half of the 19th century. In what way did they contribute to the rise and growth of Indian National Movement ? 1987
5. Give a critical account of the Ramakrishna Mission with special reference to the role played by Swami 1990
6. Discuss the role of the Theosophical Society in the history of religious movement in India. 1991
7. What were the contributions of the Arya Samaj to social and religious movements of India ? 1992
8. Discuss the various aspects of social legislation introduced by the East India Company in the first half of the nineteenth century. 1995
9. ‘Swami Vivekananda might well be called the father of Indian nationalism/ Elucidate. 1995
10. The name of Raja Ram Mohan Roy stands foremost in the field of religious and social reforms. Elucidate. 1997
11. Assess the contributions of Ishwarchandra Vidyasagar to the making of modern India. 1999
12. In what way did Ramakrishna infuse a new vigour and dynamism into Hinduism ? 1999
13. Characterize the main features of Indian Renaissance. 2006
14. What was the character of socio-religious reforms In the 19th Century and how did they contribute to the national awakening in India? (250 words)2007
15. The women’s questions arose in modern India as a part of the 19th century social reform movement. What are the major issues and debates concerning women in that period? (250 words) 2017
16. Examine the linkages between the nineteenth century’s ‘Indian Renaissance’ and the emergence of national identity. 2019
17. Trace the rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements with special reference to Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj. (Answer in 150 words) 2021

1. Evaluate Subhas Chandra Bose’s contribution to India’s freedom. 2005
2. Write brief note on Contribubons of Labka Ghosh to the freedom struggle. 2010
3. Write brief note on Bhai Maharaj Singh as a freedom fighter. 2010
4. Defying the barriers of age, gender and religion, the Indian women became the torch-bearer during the struggle for freedom in India. Discuss. (200 words) 2013
5. Several foreigners made India their homeland and participated in various movements. Analyze their role in the Indian Struggle for freedom. (200 words) 2013
6. Discuss the role of women in the freedom struggle especially during the Gandhian phase. 2016
7. Highlight the differences in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom. 2016

1. Discuss briefly the basic aims with which the Indian National Congress was founded. When and under what circumstances did it decide to have complete independence (Purna Swaraj) from the British rule as Its goal? (About 200 words) 1985
2. What were the attitudes of the Moderates and the Extremists towards the Freedom Movement in India? What led to their show-down in Surat (1907) ? (About 200 words) 1986
3. Analyse briefly the contribution of religious reform movements to the growth of extremist nationalist movement. 1989
4. Analyse the main differences between the approaches of Tilak and Gokhale on social and political issues. (About 150 words each) 1993
5. The Lucknow Pact of 1916 was signed without regard for its consequences. Elucidate. 1993
6. What were the contributions of the Moderates in the formative stage of the Indian National Congress? 1993
7. Trace the emergence of Indian nationalism till the foundation of the Indian National Congress. 1995
8. What was Tilak’s contribution towards shaping the course of the nationalist movement in India ? 1996
9. Examine the causes and nature of extremism in Indian politics in the early part of the present century. (About 250 words) 1997
10. How did economic nationalism mirror the work of the early nationalist leadership in India ? 1998
11. Why did the moderates lose appeal with the Indians and failed to elicit desired response from the British? 1998
12. Discuss the main objectives of the Indian national movement up to 190What were its basic weaknesses during this period ? 2001
13. Bring out the ideological basis of the Moderate-Extremist divide in the Indian National Congress. 2003
14. Satan cannot enter till he finds a flaw A great ocean separates us educated few from the millions in our country.” Critically analyse in about 150 words. 2009
15. Write about : ‘Egmore Faction’. 2009
16. Why did the ‘Moderates’ failed to carry conviction with the nation about their proclaimed ideology and political goals by the end of the nineteenth century? (150 words) 2017
17. To what extent has the urban planning and culture of Indus valley civilization provided inputs to the present-day urbanization? Discuss. (200 words) 2021

1. What were the motives which led to the partition of Bengal ? What were its consequences ? Why was it annulled ? (About 250 words) 1988
2. How did Lala Lajpat Rai and Bal Gangadhar Tilak champion the cause of militant nationalism in India? 1990
3. ‘If Aurobindo was the high priest, Rabindranath, was the great poet of the Swadesh Movement/ Elucidate. 1990
4. Discuss the growth of revolutionary terrorism with special reference to its ramifications in Maharashtra, Bengal and Punjab till the first decade of the twentieth century. (About 250 words) 1991
5. How far was the Swadeshi Movement linked with Boycott? Analyse the nature of mass participation in the Movement. (About 250 words) 1992
6. Why was Bengal partitioned in 1905? How did it lead to the growth of extremist and terrorist schools of nationalism? Why was it annulled and with what consequences? (About 250 words) 1993
7. Bengal was partitioned in 1905 not for administrative reasons but for political purposes. Elucidate.
8. How did the Swadeshi Movement in Bengal influence the nationalist politics ? 1998
9. Trace the origin of the Swadeshi Movement. How did it involve the masses ? 2000
10. How did the terrorist movement gather strength in countries other than India ? 2000
11. Write short notes : Divide et impera. 2002
12. What led to the partition of Bengal in 1905 ? 2004

1. Explain the part played by Annie Besant in the Home Rule Movement. 1994
2. Write short notes : Ghadar Party 2001
3. Trace the growth of the Indian Home Rule Movement in Britain. 2002

1. Explain briefly the main contribution of Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore & Jawaharlal Nehru to the making of modem India. (About 250 words) 1979
2. Mahatma Gandhi wrote in 1928 to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru: “ the differences between you and me appear to be so vast and radical that there seems to be no meeting ground between us.” State briefly the difference in approach of Gandhiji and Pandit Nehru to the following two issues and indicate the impact of their views on our Constitution and Government Policy: (a) Socialism as a goal of National Policy ; (b) Place of Industries in Indian economy. (Not more than 150 words on each) 1980
3. Briefly explain Mahatma Gandhi’s views on religion and its relation to politics. Were these views shared by Shri Jawaharlal Nehru ? (about 150 words) 1982
4. Point our dearly the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindra Nath Tagore to the social and cultural life of India. (Not more than 150 words) 1984
5. Both Mahatma Gandhi and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was Interested in India’s economic development, but there were some basic differences in their approach to this problem. Point out dearly those basic differences. (About 200 words) 1985
6. Relation between Religion and Politics has been a subject of controversy since long. What are the views of Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru on this issue ? 1987
7. Discuss Mahatma Gandhi’s concept of Basic Education. How did Tagore differ from it ? 1988
8. What was Mahatma Gandhi’s concepts of Socialism? How did it differ from Marxian socialism. 1990
9. “Mahatma Gandhi’s succession, during 1916-20, in getting the technique of non-violent satyagraha accepted by the nation as a weapon of struggle against the British was phenomenal. Elucidate. 1993
10. Trace the emergence of Gandhiji in Indian political scene till the Champaran Satyagraha of 191What was the basic philosophy of Satyagraha enunciated by him ? (About 250 words) 1994
11. Discuss Mahatma Gandhi’s concept of Basic Educabon’. How far was it a departure from conventional system of education ? 1997
12. What do you know about Rowlatt Act. 1997
13. The mainstay of Mahatma Gandhi’s movements was the rural India.’ Elucidate. 2003
14. Do you think Mahatma Gandhi’s support to Khilafat Movement had diluted his secular credentials? Give your argument based on the assessment of events. (150 words) 2007
15. 1″The foreign power will be withdrawn but for me real freedom will come only when we free ourselves of the dominance of western education, western culture and the western way of living which have been ingrained in us. ‘Critically anaylse in about 150 words. 2009
16. How different would have been the achievement of Indian independence without Mahatma Gandhi? Discuss. 2015
17. Throw light on the significance of the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi in the present times. (Answer in 150 words) 2018
18. Many voices had strengthened and enriched the nationalist movements during the Gandhian phase. Elaborate. 2019

1. What were the effects of the Non-violent Non-Cooperation Movement in India ? When was the Movement suspended and why ? (About 200 words) 1986
2. Why did Gandhiji launch the Non-violent Non-cooperation Movement on the Khilafat question ? How were other issues joined to it later on ? Discuss the constructive programme of the Non-cooperation Movement. 1989
3. Trace the origin of the Swaraj Party. What was the manifesto of the Swaraj Party ? What were the Swarajists’ demands and the reactions of the British ? 1990
4. What were the reasons that changed Gandhiji’s attitude of responsive cooperation to non-cooperation in 1920? What were its consequences ? 1996
5. Trace the formation of the Swaraj Party. What were its demands. 1999
6. Discuss the aims and objects of the Khilafat Movement. To what extent was it successful ? 2001
7. Form a critical assessment of the Non-Cooperation Movement. 2004
8. The crisis of the colonial order during 1919 and 1939 was directly linked to the constitutional reforms, disillusionment and militant anti-colonial struggles. Elucidate. (250 words) 2007
9. Evaluate the contribution of revolutionary terrorism represented by Bhagat Singh to the cause of India’s struggle for independence. (150 words) 2007
10. “Non-Cooperation Movement gave new direction and energy to the National Movement. Explain, (in about 150 words) 2008
11. Bring out the constructive programmes of Mahatma Gandhi during Non-Cooperation Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement. (Answer in 250 words) 2021

1. Analyse Mahatma Gandhi’s main demands presented to Irwin. How did Salt emerge as the central issue for launching the Satyagraha? 1988
2. What was the Gandhi-Irwin Pact? Why was it signed and what were its consequences ? (About 150 words) 1988
3. Why did Mahatma Gandhi launch Civil Disobedience Movement? Analyse the intensity of the movement in different parts of India. 1992
4. What was the Macdonald Award ? How was it modified and with what results ? 1993
5. In what way did the Civil Disobedience Movement affect the different provinces of India ? How did it foster peasant movement in India ? (About 250 words) 1995
6. What was the Macdonald Award ? How was it modified? (About 150 words each) 1996
7. What were the salient features of Gandhi-Irwin Pact? 1997
8. Write short note on Communal Award. 1998
9. Why did Gandhi launch the Salt Satyagraha in 1930 and with what results ? 2001
10. Write short notes : Dandi March 2002
11. Write short notes : Satyagraha 2002

1. What were the main feature of the Act of 1935 ? What was Jawaharlal Nehru’s reaction to the Art? Why did he contest the elections of 1937 and with what effect ? 1990
2. How did the Government of India Art, 1935 mark a point of no return in the history of constitutional development in India ? 2006
3. It would have been difficult for the Constituent Assembly to complete its historic task of drafting the Constitution for Independent India in just three years, but its experience gained with the Government of India Act, 1935 .Discuss. 2015

1. What was Cripps’ Mission? Why did its failure result into Quit India Movement? Mention briefly the major developments after this movement leading to Independence in 194(Not more than 200 words) 1984
2. What was the Cabinet Mission Plan? How was the ’grouping clause ‘fundamental to it ? What was its impart on the attitude of the Congress and the League? (About 250 words) 1989
3. What was the attitude of the Indian National Congress towards the Second World War ? What was the August Offer? What were the factors that led the British to change its negative policy and send Cripps to India? (About 250 words) 1990
4. From August Offer of Mountbatten Plan was a logical evolution. Discuss 1993
5. How did the outbreak of the Second World War affect 6India’s political scene ? Did the Cripps Mission resolve the political crisis in India ? (About 250 words)1994
6. Write short note on August Offer, 1940. 1996
7. What do you know about August Declaration, 1917. 1997
8. Assess the role of C. Rajagopalachari during the preparation years of Indian public life. 1998
9. What were the proposals of the Cabinet Mission? Analyse the reactions of the Congress and the League to the proposals. 1999
10. What was Mountbatten Plan ? Discuss the reactions of Gandhi and Azad to the Plan. 2000
11. Why did Jinnah reject the C. R. Formula. 2002
12. Review the’ Dickie Bird Plan’. 2002

1. ‘The trial of the INA officers did more harm than good to the British Rule in India/ Explain. 1989
2. When and why did the revolt of the ratings of the Royal Indian Navy take place ? Why did they suspend the movement ? What were the attitudes of Gandhi and Patel towards the movement ? (About 50 words each) 1990
3. Trace the origins of the R.I.N. Mutiny and evaluate its impact on the political situation in India. 1998
4. Evaluate the attitudes of different political parties towards Quit India Movement. 2002
5. Evaluate Subhas Chandra Bose’s contribution to India’s freedom. 2005
6. Critically assess Sir Tej Bahadur Sapru’s views on Indian Nationalism. 2006
7. Trace the salient sequence of events in the popular revolt that took place in February 1946 in the then ‘Royal Indian Navy and bring out its significance in the freedom struggle. Do you agree with the view that the sailors who took part in this revolt were some of the unsung heroes of the freedom struggle? (in about 250 words) 2011
8. In what ways did the naval mutiny prove to be the last nail in the coffin of British colonial aspirations in India ? 2014

1. What are the main factors, which led eventually to the partition of India in 1947 ? To what extent was Shri Jawaharlal Nehru justified in writing in 1946 as follows :’It (Communalism) is our fault, of course and we must suffer for our failings. But I cannot excuse or forgive the British authorities for the deliberate part they have played in creating disruption in India. 1982
2. Despite the fact that Muslims and Hindus fought together against the British in the Revolt of 1857, a separatist movement started soon after, resulting into the partition of India. In the light of this statement, review briefly the origin and development of Muslim Separatist Movement culminating into the creation of Pakistan in 194(Not more than 200 words) 1987
3. Narrate the last phase of the India’s freedom movement especially from the beginning of 1947 till the attainment of Independence. 1991
4. Write short note on Sikander-Jinnah Pact. 1993
5. Do you think that the Partition of India was inevitable? Discuss the attitudes of Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Nehru and Maulana Azad towards the crucial question of Partition. 1995
6. What were the circumstances that led to the partition of India in 1947? 1997
7. How did Communalism manifest in Indian political scene? Explain the background of the passing of the momentous Pakistan Resolution. (About 250 words) 1999
8. Why and how did the Congress come to accept the partition of the country? 2005

1. What were the main reasons for the decisions of the British Government to leave India after transferring power to the people of British India and the ‘Rulers’ of Indian States ? (Not more than 150 words) 1980
2. Assess the role of British imperial power in complicating the process of transfer of power during the 1940s. (Answer in 250 words) 2019

1. Why were the states of India ‘reorganized’ in 1956 ? Do you think in retrospect that the policy has served the purpose which the Government had in view ? Give reasons for your views. (150 words) 1980
2. One of the outstanding achievements of the Government of Independent India is the integration of the former Princely’ States with the Indian Union. How was this achieved ? What important forces/factors helped the Unification of India ? (150 words) 1981
3. How did Patel succeed in avoiding the evil consequences of the doctrine of lapse of paramountcy and In integrating Indian States ? (About 150 words) 1989
4. Write short notes : Butler Committee Report 1996
5. How did Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel succeed in avoiding the evil consequences of the doctrine of lapse of paramountcy and in integrating Indian States ? 1997
6. What was the Butler Committee Report ? Discuss the reactions on the Report in India. 2002
7. Write short notes : Chamber of Princes 2002
8. Discuss the problems that impeded the integration of the princely states into the Indian Union. How were these problems tackled ? 2003
9. Examine the policy of Subordinate Union towards Princely States. Account for the shift from the policy of Subordinate Isolation. 2005
10. Assess the main administrative issues and socio-cultural problems in the integration process of Indian Princely States. (Answer in 150 words) 2021
11. The political and administrative reorganization of states and territories has been a continuous ongoing process since the mid-nineteenth century. Discuss with examples. (Answer in 250 words) 2022

1. The Minto-Morley Reformsdid not and could not provide an answer to Indian problems. Explain. 1993
2. Write short notes : Ilbert Bill, Sarda Act, Education Despatch of 1854 . 1999
3. “The reforms of 1909 introduced a cardinal problem and ground of controversy at every revision of the Indian electoral system.” Comment. 2003
4. Write about W. W. Hunter. 1993
5. “In the Montagu-Chelmsford Report communal representation and reservations were not only retained but considerably extended.” Comment. 1993
6. What are the salient features of the Government of India Acts of 1858 and 1909 ? 2007
7. Write about Ilbert Bill in 20 words. 2008

1. What efforts have been made for the upliftment of women in India from the middle of the nineteenth century to the present day ? 1985
2. Give an account of the legislative measures passed during 1856-1956 for the uplift of women. Why was a new Act prohibiting Sati passed recently ? 1988
3. What was Harijan Movement? Why and with what effect did Gandhi launch individual Satyagraha? 1991
4. How far the labour legislations of the British Government were meant to ameliorate the condition of the working class. 1992
5. Write short note on Temple Entry Programme. 1993
6. Discuss the outstanding Tribal uprisings against the British rule during the nineteenth century. 1994
7. What was the role of the states’ people’s movement in the integration of Indian states ? 1996
8. What was the significance of the Prajamandal movements in the Indian States in the decade preceding India’s independence ? 1998
9. How did the movement for the liberation of women receive a great stimulus from the rise and growth of the nationalist movement in India ? 2001
10. Discuss the character of major tribal uprisings in British India in the nineteenth Century. 2003
11. What was the attitude of Indian Industrialists towards the Indian National Congress in the pre – independent era ? 2006
12. Write about Vaikam Satyagraha. (08/I/2d/2) Write about : Kiang Nongbah. 2009
13. Write about : Gurudwara Reform Movement. 2009
14. In the context of the freedom struggle, write short note not exceeding 50 words) : ‘Babbar Akali’ movement. 2011

1. The recruitment of Indians to Civil Services was the most important question in the last quarter of the nineteenth century.’ Explain. 1989
2. Describe the main features of the Panchayati Raj Bills. Does it, in your opinion, modify its federal character? 1989
3. Trace the progress of the women’s education from theearly days of the British rule to the year 194(About 150 words) 1990
4. Trace the growth and development of University education till 191(About 150 words) 1991
5. State the various regulations imposed by the British Government to curtail the freedom of the press. 1991
6. Write a short history of the Local Self-Government till the Reforms of 1919. 1992
7. Discuss the British policy towards Tibet from the end of the nineteenth century to the Viceroyalty of Lord Curzon. (About 150 words each) 1994
8. When was the system of open competitive examination in the Indian Civil Service introduced ? Analyse the growth of the Indian civil Service till the passing of the Government of India Act, 1919. 1995
9. Assess the growth and development of Technical Education during the British rule. 1995
10. Discuss the major regulations enacted by the British rulers to curb the freedom of Press in India. 2004
11. Discuss the main findings of the Hartog Committee (1929). 2004
12. What in your opinion were the positive steps taken by the British to modernise India ? 2005
13. Write about Bhawani Mandir. 2005
14. Write about Chouth and Sardeshmukhi. 2008
15. Write about : Haileybury College 2009
16. Write about : Ijara System. 2009

1. The economic policies followed by the British led to the transformation of India’s economy into a colonial economy. They disrupted the traditional structure of the Indian economy. Explain how this happened with special reference to agricultural rural employment and development of our industries. 1983
2. The railways did in India what they did else where, they hastened the transition from handicraft to mechanical industry by transforming the transport situation. Discuss. (About 150 words) 1992
3. What is meant by ‘un-British’ rule in India ? How did the Indian nationalists react against it ? Evaluate the role of Dadabhai Naoroji in exposing the evils of British rule in India. 1994
4. What do you understand about ‘Drain of wealth during British rule ? Examine its effects on Indian economy. 1997
5. How did the policy of free trade hurt Indian textile industry and crafts in the latter half of the 19th century ? 1998
6. The emergence of new social classes in Bribsh India was the direct consequence of the establishment of new social economy, new state system, administrative machinery and Western education. Discuss, (in about 150 words) 2008
7. British vision of India had no single coherent set of ideas. On the contrary, the ideas were shot through with contradictions and inconsistencies. Discuss, (in about 150 words) 2008
8. “Many Englishmen honestly consider themselves the trustees for India and yet to what a condition they have reduced our country.”Critically anaylse in about 150 words. 2009
9. Examine critically the various facets of economic policies of the British in India from mid – eighteenth century till independence. 2014
10. Clarify how mid-eighteenth century India was beset with the spectre of a fragmented polity. (150 words, 10 marks) 2017
11. Examine how the decline of traditional artisanal industry in colonial India crippled the rural economy. (250 words, 15 marks) 2017
12. Why indentured labour was taken by the British from India to their colonies? Have they been able to preserve their cultural identity over there? (15) 2018
13. Why indentured labour was taken by the British from India to their colonies? Have they been able to preserve their cultural identity over there? (15) 2022

1. Theosophical Society of India 1996
   1. Sarda Sadan
   2. Sabarmati Ashram
   3. Hunter Commission
2. Bharat Dharma Mahamandal. 1998
3. Who established the Arya Samaj? What was it’s goal. 2000
4. Fort Williom College. 2000
5. Prarthana Samaj. 2001
6. Satyasodhak Samaj. 2001
7. Dharma Sabha. 2002
8. Write a short note on Theosophical Society. 2004
9. Calcutta Madarsa. 2005
10. Write about Poona Sarvajanik Sabha. 2008
11. Write on Girni Kamgar Union .
12. Evaluate the Influence of the three important women’s organizations of the early twentieth century in India on the country’s society and politics. To what extent do you think were the social objectives of these organizations constrained by their political objectives? (250 words) 2011
13. In the context of the freedom struggle, write a short note (not exceeding 50 words): Bharat Naujawan Sabha. 2011

The New Economic Policy – 1921 of Lenin had influenced the policies adopted by India soon after Independence. Evaluate. 2014

1. “The Viceroyalties of Lord Lytton and Lord Ripon formed an important landmark in the history of the Indian National Movement.’ Examine the truth of the statement. 1992
2. What were the basic differences between the conservative and the liberal schools of administrators in the latter half of the 19th century? 1993
3. How did the British illustrate Lord Canning’s policy in treating the Indian Princes as ‘Breakwaters in the storm? 1995
4. The policies of the British Indian Government during 1858- 1905 were aimed at preventing another revolt of the masses. Elucidate. (250 words) 1996
5. What was the Masterly Inactivity Policy? Why was it abandoned? 1996
6. How far Curzon’s policy towards Tibet was influenced by strategic consideration. 1999
7. Dalhousie’s predecessors had acted on the general principles of avoiding annexations, if these could be avoided. Dalhousie acted on the principles of annexation, if lie could do so legitimately. His annexations were both of war and peace.” Analyse. (150 words) 2010
8. “In many ways, Lord Dalhousie was the founder of modern India”. Elaborate (200 words). 2013
9. Evaluate the policies of Lord Curzon and their long term implications on the national movement. (150 words) 2020

1. Critically discuss the objectives of Bhoodan and Gramdan movements initiated by Acharya Vinoba Bhave and their success. (200 words) 2013
2. Write a critical note on evolution and significance of the slogan ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan. (200 words) 2013
3. Analyze the circumstances that led to the Tashkent Agreement in 196Discuss the highlights of the Agreement. (200 words) 2013
4. Critically examine the compulsions which prompted India to play a decisive role in the emergence of Bangladeshi. (200 words) 2013
5. Has the formation of linguistic states strengthened the cause of Indian unity? 2016

1. Describe briefly the impact of the following on India (about 40 words each): 1979
   1. The Great War of 1914-18
   2. The Green Revolution
   3. Non-alignment
2. Explain the significance of the following socio-religious movements: (Not exceeding two sentences for each) 1986
   1. Suddhi Movement
   2. Self-Respect Movement
   3. SNDP – Yogam
   4. The Deoband Movement
   5. The Bhakti Movement
3. Explain the significance of the following in the socio-religious context: (50 words) 1988
   1. Faraizi Movement
   2. Kuka Movement
4. What do you know about the following movements? 1989
   1. Rahnumai Mazda Yasnam
   2. The Bhagat Movement
   3. The Wahabi Movement
5. What do you know about the following movements? 1990
   1. Farazi Movement
   2. Suddhi Movement
   3. The Young Bengal Movement
6. What do you know about the following movements? 1999
   1. Swadeshi Movement
   2. Khilafat Movement
   3. Namdhari Movement
7. What do you know about the following movements? 1992
   1. Wahabi Movement
   2. Indigo Movement
   3. Quit India Movement
8. What do you know about the following? 1994
   1. Tana Bhagat Movement
   2. Satyashodak Movement
   3. Khallafat Movement
9. Write about the chief features of the following: 1996
   1. Ahmadiya Movement
   2. Mahayan Buddhism
10. Write about the chief features of Wahabi Movement. 1998
11. Write about the chief features of: 1999
    1. Neo-art movement
    2. Munda Movement
12. Write about Darul-Uloom. 2005
13. The significance of Patharughat in the Indian freedom struggle. 2012
14. The third battle of Panipat was fought in 176Why were so many empire-shaking battles fought at Panipat? 2014
15. Why did the armies of the British East India Company mostly comprising of Indian soldiers win consistently – against the more numerous and better equipped armies of the Indian rulers? Give reasons. (Answer in 150 words) 2022