NCERT Solutions for Class 6 Social Science includes all the questions provided in NCERT Class 6 Social Science Text book of Geography The Earth: Our Habitat, History Our Pasts, Civics Social and Political Life. Here CBSE Class 6 SST all questions are solved with the detailed explanation to score good marks in the exams.
Chapter 2 On the Trial of the Earliest People History Solutions | Edugrown
Page 12
Question 1. List the skills and knowledge that the children of these communities had. Do you have these skills & knowledge? Answer: The children of these communities gradually learned about hunting, gathering fruits, roots, nuts, seeds, leaves, stacks, and eggs. Collecting them was not easy because they had to find out about the fruits and when they will ripen, they also had to find, which parts were edible or whether they were poisonous or not.
We only know which fruits come in which season e.g. mango in the summer season. Oranges in the winter season.
Question 2. How do you come to school? Answer: I come to my school by school bus.
Question 3. How long would it take you to walk from your home to school? Answer: If I walk from my home to school, it would take me 1 hour.
Question 4. How long would it take you if you took a bus or rode a bicycle? Answer: If I take a bus it will take just 20 minutes. And if l ride a bicycle it will take around 40 minutes.
Page 13
Question 1. Some uses of stone tools are given. Make a list of what these tools were used for and try and decide which of these tasks could be performed using a natural pebble. Give reasons for your answer. Answer: Some of the stone tools were used to
Cut meat and bone.
Scrape bark from trees and hides form animals
Chop fruits and roots
After attaching handles of wood or bone, spears & arrows were used for hunting.
Tools were used to chop wood, which was used as firewood. Wood was also used to make huts & tools.
Digging ground to collect edible; roots.
Stitch clothes made out of animal skin. The natural pebbles have a smooth and shiny surface. It does not have sharp edges that can chop wood or scrape bark from the trees. How they could be used for hunting animals. They can be aimed at running animals.
Page 15
Question 1. If you had to describe the place you live in, which of the words would you choose? (a) habitation (b) factory (c) habitation cum factory (d) any other Answer: (d) Any other – locality
Page 16
Question 1. Find Kurnool caves. Traces of ash have been found here. What do we use fire for today? Answer: We use fire
To cook food
For the setting of metals e.g. iron
For making steam from coal & water and it is used for transportation. e.g., railways.
For molding metals etc.
Page 17
Question 1. Look at the illustration on page 13. Do you notice any difference in the tools belonging to these periods? Answer: The tools of the Palaeolithic age were, large and bulky. It was difficult to carry and hold them in hand. The tools of that) Mesolithic age was tiny and could be stuck to handles of bones or wood to make tools such as saws and sickles. They had a sharper edge.
Question 2. What do you think the term Neolithic means. Answer: The word Neolithic comes from two Greek words Neo (meaning new) and Lithos (meaning stone). Hence Neolithic means the new Stone Age.
Page 18
Question 1. What do you think the beads could have been used for? Answer: Beads could have been used for prayers. Beads are a small perforated ball used in counting prayers, to date.
Question 2. Where do we find ostriches, today? Answer: Ostriches are native to Africa. yare also found in New Zealand, Canada, etc.
Page 19
Question 1. At some of the sites, evidence suggests that tools were made. Can you think of a term for the second type of site? Answer: These sites are called ‘factory’.
Question 2. The cave found in France has paintings on the walls, it is possible these paintings were done for ceremonial purposes or for special rituals, performed by the hunters. Can you think of some reasons? Answer: It can be possible that these paintings (a) Were painted during leisure time and were a way of recreation. (b) The man imagined that he should be successful against wild animals and so gave a form to his imagination.
Page 20
Question 1. You live in a rock shelter like the one shown on page IS about 12,000 years ago. Your uncle is painting one of the inner walls of the cave and you want to help him. Will you mix the colors, draw the lines, Fill in the colors? What are the stories he might tell you? Answer: I shall mix colors for him. My uncle would be telling me about his hunting activities at that time.
Class 6 History Chapter 2 On the Trial of the Earliest People Exercise Questions and Answers
Let’s Recall
Question 1. Complete the sentences.
Hunter-gatherers chose to live in caves and rock shelters because ……….
Grasslands developed around ………… years ago.
Early people painted on the ……….. of caves.
In Hunsgi, tools were made of …………
Answer:
Hunter-gatherers chose to live in caves and rock shelters because they gave shelter from rain, heat, and wind.
Grassland developed around 12000 years ago.
Early people painted on the walls of the caves.
In Hunsgi tools were made of limestone.
Question 2. Look at the Present-Day Political map of the subcontinent on page 136 of the textbook, Find out the states where Bhimbetka, Hunsgi, and Kurnool are located. Would Thshar’s train have passed near any of these sites? Answer:
Bhimbetka
Madhya Pradesh
Hunger
Karnataka
Kurnool
Tamil Nadu
Yes, Tushar’s train would have passed near these sites.
Let’s Discuss
Question 3. Why did the hunter-gatherers travel from place to place, in what? ways are these similar to/different from the reasons for which we travel today? Answer: file hunter-gatherers traveled from place to place to hunt animals and collect fruits, berries, and leaves of the plant. They followed the seasonal migration of animals. Whenever fruits were less. They went to a new place. Today we travel for different reasons like going on business trips, excursions, visit religious places, etc. We also go to buy goods. everyday use.
Question 4. What fools would use today for cutting fruit? What would? they are made of? Answer:
We will use knife, cutter, shilter, dagger, spoon, fork, machine, etc. for cutting fruits.
They would be made of different metals like copper, bronze, iron, steel, etc.
Question 5. List three ways in which hunter-gatherers used fire. (See page 16 of the textbook) Would you use fire for any of these purposes today? Answer: Hunter-gatherers used fire for purposes like:
A source of light
A resource of cook meat
A way to scare away wild animals.
Nowadays we use fire for:
Cooking
To keep ourselves warm.
Let’s Do
Question 6. Make two columns in your notebook. In the left-hand column, list the foods hunter-gatherers ate. (See page It of the textbook) In the right-hand column list some of the foods you eat. Do you notice any similarities/differences? Answer:
Hunter-gatherers
Food which we eat
They ate the meat of wild animals, caught fish and birds, gathered fruits, roots, nuts seeds, leaves, and shalks and eggs. Most probably they ate raw meat.
Food consists of several bowls of cereal, pulses, fruits, and vegetables. It also contains meat, milk, and milk products. Some of the food like vegetables can both be cooked or eaten raw.
Question 7. If you had a natural pebble-like one shown on page 13, what would you use it for? Answer:
I would have used some of these stone tools to cut meat and bone, scrape bark (from trees) and hides (animal skins), chop fruit, and roots.
Some may have been attached to handles of bone or wood, to make spears and arrows for hunting.
Other stone tools were used to chop wood, which was used as firewood.
Question 8. List two tasks that are performed by both men and women at present. List another two that are performed only by women, men two that are performed by men only. Compare your list with that of any two of your classmates. Do you notice any similarities/ differences in your lists? Answer: (a) Both men and women work in the offices as clerks, managers. (b) Both men and women work in the police department. (c) They work as pilots, doctors, engineers. (d) Newsreaders on television & radios and anchoring other programs. Men : (a) Water transport. Mostly men row the boats or captain of the ship. (b) Underwater divers, who explore the sunk ships. Women: (1) Nursing The student should compare this list with others yourself.
NCERT Solutions for Class 6 Social Science includes all the questions provided in NCERT Class 6 Social Science Text book of Geography The Earth: Our Habitat, History Our Pasts, Civics Social and Political Life. Here CBSE Class 6 SST all questions are solved with the detailed explanation to score good marks in the exams.
Chapter 1 What, Where, How and When? History Solutions | Edugrown
Page 1
Question 1. Where did the early people live? What work did they do? Answer: Some of the earliest people near the banks of the river Narmada. They were :
Food gathers
Since they had a vast knowledge about the forests they collected roots, fruits, and other forest produce for their food.
They also hunted animals.
Page 2
Question 1. Where are Sulaiman and Kirthar hills? Where did the people first grow crops? Answer: Sulaiman and Kirthar hills are to the north-west of India. Men and women first began to grow crops, such as wheat and barley are located here. It was about 8000 years ago.
Question 2. Locate the Garo hills and Vindhyas. What work did the people do? Answer: Garo hills lie to the north-east of India. The Vindhyas are in Central India. These are the areas where man developed agriculture.
Page 3
Question 1. Look at the map given on page 2 of the textbook. Locate the river Indus and name its tributaries. Where did the earliest cities flourish? Answer: The main tributaries of the river Indus are the Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej. Some of the earliest cities flourished on the banks of the river Indus and its tributaries, about 4700 years ago.
Question 2. Name the tributary of the Ganga? Which area was known as Magadha? Answer: The tributary of the river Ganga is the son. In ancient times the areas along this river to the south of the Ganga were known as Magadha.
Question 3. Why do people travel nowadays? Answer: People travel nowadays due to various reasons
To see new places.
For business and trade
For education
Pilgrimage
Page 5
Question 1. Can you think of the advantages of writing 6n a hard surface? And What could have been the difficulties? Answer: Writing on hard material cannot be destroyed easily. It cannot be infected by moths and pests. It cannot be crumbled into powder when dried (as in the case of leaves and barks). Writing on hard material is a laborious job and cannot be exposed easily.
Page 6
Question 1. Do you think cloth is found frequently by archaeologists? Answer: Yes, cloth has been found in various ancient civilizations. Cotton, silk cloth, etc. have been found in India, Iraq, and China.
Page 9
Question 1. You have to interview an archaeologist. Prepare a list of five questions that you would like to ask her/him? Answer: The five questions would be :
Archaeologically how old is the Indus civilization?
What are archaeological proves of war among Argans and the people of Indus valley civilization?
What is the importance of symbols in archaeology?
Who was the first Indian archaeologist?
How do archaeologists determine the age of any finding such as pottery etc?
Class 6 History Chapter 1 What, Where, How and When? Exercise Questions and Answers
Let’s Recall
Question 1. Match the following : Answer:
Narmada Valley
Hunting and gathering
Magadha
The first big kingdom
Garo Hills
Early agriculture
Indus and its tributaries
Cities about 2500 years ago
Ganga Valley
The first cities
Question 2. List one major difference between a manuscript and an inscription. Answer:
Manuscripts
Inscription
The old books written by hands ate called manuscripts. They are usually written on palm leaf or on specially prepared bark of a tree known as birch which grows in the Himalayas.
Inscriptions are written on hard surfaces such as stone or metal.
Let’s Discuss
Question 3. Return to Rasheeda’s question. Can you think of some answer to it? Answer: Yes, I can think of some answers to it.
We can learn about the past by studying history.
History will help us understand how this present evolved. It will tell us about the past of the present.
Question 4. Make a list of all the objects that archaeologists may find. Which of these could be made of stone? Answer: The archaeologists study the remains of buildings made of stone and brick, painting, and sculpture. They also dig under the surface of the earth to find tools, weapons, pots, pans and ornaments, and coins. Tools and weapons could have been made of stone. Buildings were also made of stone.
Question 5. Why do you think ordinary men and women did not generally keep records of what they did? Answer: Ordinary men and women did not feel the need of recording what they did. Also, they lacked proper writing methods.
Question 6. Describe at least two ways, in which you think the lives of the king would have been different from those of farmers. Answer: The lives of kings would have differed from those of farmers in some ways like these:
The kings set up large kingdoms whereas the farmers’ life was not like theirs.
The farmers did not keep records of what they did whereas the kings kept records of their battles and their victories.
Let’s Do
Question 7. Find the word crafts persons on page 1. List at least five different crafts that you know about today. Are the craftspersons (a) men (b) women (c) both men and women? Answer: A craftsperson is a person who makes things at home with simple tools and with the help of family members. The different crafts are (a) Spinning and weaving of cloth on handlooms. (b) Blacksmiths. (c) Pottery making. (d) Inlay work The craftspersons can both be men and women. Some crafts like the work of blacksmiths can be done mainly by men. Some others like pottery marking are done both by men & women.
Question 8. What were the subjects on which books were written in the past? Which of these would you like to read? Answer: Ancient books covered subjects like:
Religious beliefs and practices
Lives of kings
Medicine
Science
Poetry
Drama
Epics
It would be really interesting to read the epics of the past. The Ramayana, The Mahabharata, and the Upanishads are some of the religious epics of the past.
In This Post we are providing CHAPTER 4 ALTERNATIVE CENTRES OF POWERNCERT MCQ for Class 12 POLITICAL SCIENCE PART-A CONTEMPORARY WORLD POLITICS which will be beneficial for students. These solutions are updated according to 2021-22 syllabus. These MCQS can be really helpful in the preparation of Board exams and will provide you with a brief knowledge of the chapter
NCERT MCQON ALTERNATIVE CENTRES OF POWER
1. EURATOM is known as
(a) Europe Atom Efficiency Community.(b) Europe Aviation Energy Center.(c) European Atomic Energy Community.(d) European Ariel Energetic Center
.► (c) European Atomic Energy Community. 2. ASEAN stands for ___________.
(a) Alliance of Southeast Asian Nations(b) Alliance of Southern Asian Nations(c) Association of South West Asian Nations(d) Association of South East Asian Nations
► (d) Association of South East Asian Nations 3. The major landmark in the Indo-China relations was
(a) Indira Gandhi’s visit to China.(b) A.B. Vajpayee’s visit to China.(c) Hu Jintao’s visit to India.(d) Rajiv Gandhi’s visit to China.
► (d) Rajiv Gandhi’s visit to China. 4. WTO stands for
(a) World Trade Organisation.(b) World Territorial Organisation.(c) War Trust Organisation.(d) World Trade Organ.
► (a) World Trade Organisation. 5. In January 2007, the two countries that joined EU were
(a) Britain and Denmark.(b) Italy and France.(c) Finland and Sweden.(d) Bulgaria and Romania.
► (d) Bulgaria and Romania
6. What is the name given to the 13 members of the European Union who have adopted Euro?
(a) Euro zone(b) Euro alliance(c) Euro association(d) Euro league
► (a) Euro zone 7. Which of the following is the only country that suffered the destruction caused by nuclear bombs?
(a) China(b) India(c) France(d) Japan
► (d) Japan 8. In which year ASEAN was established?
(a) 1967(b) 1965(c) 1962(d) 1960
► (a) 1967 9. The second largest contributor to the regular budget of the UN is
(a) Japan.(b) China.(c) India.(d) Britain.
► (a) Japan. 10. The European Economic Community was formed in 1958 by
In This Post we are providing CHAPTER 5 CONTEMPORARY SOUTH INDIANCERT MCQ for Class 12 POLITICAL SCIENCE PART-A CONTEMPORARY WORLD POLITICS which will be beneficial for students. These solutions are updated according to 2021-22 syllabus. These MCQS can be really helpful in the preparation of Board exams and will provide you with a brief knowledge of the chapter
NCERT MCQON CONTEMPORARY SOUTH INDIA
Question 1: Which of the following has been a Hindu Kingdom -?
(a) India
(b) Bhutan
(c) Bangladesh
(d) Nepal
Answer : D Question 2 : Who led the popular struggle against West Pakistani domination?
(a) Yahya Khan
(b) Ayub Khan
(c) Sheikh Mujib-Ur-Rahman
(d) Zia-Ul-Haq
Answer : C Question 3 : Under which military ruler Pakistan faced Military Crisis?
(a) Yahya Khan
(b) Ayub Khan
(c) Pervez Musharraf
(d) Nawaz Sharif
Answer : A Question 4 : When India conducted a nuclear explosion in Pokaran? (a) 1996 (b) 1997 (c) 1998 (d) 1999
Answer : C Question 5 : Expand LTTE. (a) Liberation Tactics of Tamil Eelam (b) Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (c) Liberation Tier of Tamil Eelam (d) Liberation Team of Tamil Eelam
Answer : B Question 6 : India sent Indian peace keeping force in Sri Lanka in –
(a) 1986
(b) 1987
(c) 1988
(d) 1989
Answer : D Question 7 : Which of the following country is a South Asian country? (a) Japan (b) USA (c) China (d) Pakistan
Answer : D Question 8 : Which of the following country is not a South Asian country? (a) Bangladesh (b) India (c) Bhutan (d) Russia
Answer : D
Answer 9 : Question : Which of the following is a Land Locked Country?
(a) Maldives
(b) Bangladesh
(c) Nepal
(d) Pakistan
Answer : C Question 10 : Nepal was a constitutional monarchy till (a) 2006. (b) 2005. (c) 2004. (d) 2003.
Answer : D Question 11 : The country that is Bhutan’s biggest source of development aid is
(a) the USA
(b) Russia (c) India (d) Maldives
Answer : C Question 12 : Bhutan’s biggest Source of development aid is given by-
(a) India
(b) Pakistan
(c) Nepal
(d) Maldives
Answer : A Question 13 : Farakka Agreement is related to which of? (a) Indo-Pak (b) India- Bhutan (c) India- Bangladesh (d) India-Nepal
Answer : C Question 14 : The Seven Party Alliance is a coalition of
(a) Maoist parties only.
(b) Monarchial forces.
(c) Nepali political parties
.(d) Non-governmental organisations in Nepal.
Answer : C Question 15: A landlocked country of South Asia with Maoist guerillas (a) the Maldives (b) Bangladesh (c) Nepal (d) Pakistan
In This Post we are providing CHAPTER 6 INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONNCERT MCQ for Class 12 POLITICAL SCIENCE PART-A CONTEMPORARY WORLD POLITICS which will be beneficial for students. These solutions are updated according to 2021-22 syllabus. These MCQS can be really helpful in the preparation of Board exams and will provide you with a brief knowledge of the chapter
NCERT MCQON INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATION
1. The International Court of Justice popularly known as the
(a) World Court.(b) Supreme Court.(c) Criminal Court.(d) Subordinate Courts.
► (a) World Court. 2. Trygre Lie was the first Secretary General from
(a) Germany.(b) Norway.(c) France.(d) Italy
.► (b) Norway. 3. The two aspects of Human Rights are
(a) Social and legal aspects.(b) Natural and legal aspects.(c) Economic and political aspects.(d) Economic and natural aspects.
► (b) Natural and legal aspects. 4. The international organisation that works for the protection of human rights all over the world is
(a) Amnesty International.(b) International Monetary Fund.(c) World Trade Organisation.(d) International Court.
► (a) Amnesty International. 5. The original member nations that signed the charter of the United Nations back in 1945 were
(a) 58.(b) 49.(c) 51.(d) 45.
► (c) 51.
6. The UNs most visible public figure and representative head is the
In This Post we are providing CHAPTER 5 CONTEMPORARY SOUTH INDIANCERT MOST IMPORTANT QUESTIONS for Class 12 POLITICAL SCIENCE PART- A CONTEMPORARY WORLD POLITICS which will be beneficial for students. These solutions are updated according to 2021-22 syllabus. These MCQS can be really helpful in the preparation of Board exams and will provide you with a brief knowledge of the chapter.
NCERT MOST IMPORTANT QUESTIONSONCONTEMPORARY SOUTH INDIA
Question 1. Examine Indo-Pak relations in light of recent developments. Answer: India attained freedom on 15th Aug. 1947 but it was partitioned at the same time and so Pakistan came into existence. Pakistan was the result of a policy of ‘Divide and Rule’ of British rulers. Pakistan is India’s neighbouring country and that is why Indo- Pak relations are significant.
Two wars took place between both the countries on Kashmir issue, first in 1948, and then in 1965. In 1971, India and Pakistan fought another war on the Bangladesh issue.
America supported Pakistan whereas Russia favoured India and used a Veto. Mrs Gandhi announced the origin of the Republic of Bangladesh in the Parliament on 6th December. General Niazi signed the documents of surrender on 16th December 1971 and one lakh Pak-soldiers surrendered. Mrs Gandhi announced a unilateral ceasefire on 17th December at 8 a.m. and requested Yahya Khan to accept the appeal for a ceasefire. India’s victory in war heightened its prestige and badly discouraged Pakistan.
The principles of bilateral talks were encouraged after the Shimla Agreement.
After the formation of the Janata Government in March 1977, Indo-Pak relations all the more improved.
No War Pact: On 15th Sept. 1981 Pakistan offered a No War Pact between the two countries. India suggested seven points for a No War Pact between the two countries. Mrs Gandhi categorically assured Pakistan that India would never attack it, irrespective of whether the two countries signed a Non-Aggression Pact or not.
Pakistan’s Support to Terrorists: For almost a decade Pakistan has been fighting a proxy war on India’s blood-spattered border states. Pakistan is giving all sorts of help to Punjab militants and Kashmir terrorists. On February 22, 1994, the Indian Parliament unanimously condemned Pakistan’s abetment of and encouragement to terrorist activities in Kashmir.
Nuclear Tests: India conducted three underground nuclear tests on May 11, 1998, and two tests were conducted on May 13, 1998. On 28th May 1998 Pakistan conducted five nuclear tests to equalise the five tests conducted by India.
Indo-Pak Pact on Bus Service: On Feb. 17, 1999, India and Pakistan signed a formal agreement for launching the Delhi-Lahore bus service. On Feb. 20, 1999, heralding a new ‘Chapter’ in Indo-Pakistan relations the Prime Minister Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee, rode on the bus to Lahore.
Kargil Issue: After showing limitless patience, India gave a moderate answer on 26th May 1999 to Pakistan sponsored aggression in the Kargil-Dras sector. Indian Government made it very clear that they will continue the operation till “our defence forces reoccupy our territory”.
The summit between Prime Minister and President, 2001. In July 2001, the summit between Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf crashed down because the two sides failed to reconcile their differences on the critical Kashmir issue and cross-border terrorism.
Terrorist Attack on Indian Parliament: On December 13, 2001, terrorists attacked the Indian Parliament and 12 persons were killed. Terrorist outfits based in Pakistan—Lashkar-e-Toiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad were responsible for the attack on Parliament.
India Recalls High Commissioner. On 21st December 2001, India recalled its High Commissioner from Islamabad and terminated the Delhi Lahore bus service as well as the Samjhauta Express train running between the two countries for the last 25 years. On December 27, 2001, India banned the use of Indian airspace by the Pakistani planes and gave an ultimatum for reduction of its High Commission staff by 50 per cent.
Ban on LeT, Jaish-e-Mohammad: On January 12, 2002, Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf banned the Jaish-e-Mohammad and the Lashkar-e-Toiba but ruled out handing over their leaders to India.
Indian Prime Minister’s Visit to Islamabad: In January 2004 the Indian Prime Minister Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee visited Islamabad to attend 12th SAARC summit. Mr Vajpayee met Pakistani President and Prime Minister during his visit.
After the Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee’s visit to Islamabad in 2004 both the countries have decided to improve their relations. The bus service, train services and air services have been resumed between Indo—Pak.
Bus to Muzaffarabad: On 16th February 2005 India and Pakistan agreed to start a bus service between Srinagar and Muzaffarabad from April 7, 2005. Travel is made by an entry permit system for all nationals of both countries once identities are verified. Both countries agree to start a bus service between Amritsar and Lahore and also to religious places such as Nankana Sahib.
General Musharraf Visit (2005). In April 2005, General Musharraf visited India. The two leaders decided to revive the Indo-Pak Joint Commission. India and Pakistan decided to enlarge economic and commercial ties.
Pact on Ballistic Missiles. On August 6, 2005, India and Pakistan reached an understanding on the proposed agreement on Pre-notification of Flight Testing of Ballistic Missiles.
India, Pak Exchange Relief. In November 2005 Indian and Pakistani officials from both sides of the LOC supervised the exchange of relief material for the quake-affected population.
Terrorists Attack on Mumbai. Terrorists attacked Mumbai on November 26, 2008. Nine terrorists were killed and one terrorist Ajmal Kasab was arrested. These terrorists were supported by Pakistan. Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh clearly stated about the involvement of Pakistan’s official agencies in the Mumbai attacks and asked Pakistan to take actions against the perpetrators of the attack so that such strikes do not take place in the future. But the Pakistan government has not taken any action.
On 25 Feb. 2010, India and Pakistan started their Secretary-level talks: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s meeting with Pakistani P.M. Gilani at Addu (Maldives) on November 10, 2011. Both the leaders described the relationship as moving in a positive direction. Like Pakistani P.M. Gilani, Indian P.M. also referred to “opening a new chapter in the history of the relationship between the two countries”. Both the leaders have hope that the second round of talks will be more productive.
In May 2014, Pakistani Prime Minister Sh. Nawaz Sharif visited India to attend oath ceremony of Sh. Narendra Modi as Prime Minister of India. During this visit, both leaders discussed bilateral issues.
In July 2015, a meeting was held between Indian and Pakistani Prime Minister Ufa (Russia). During this meeting, both countries agreed to restart the dialogue process.
On 24th Dec 2015, Indian Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi visited Pakistan for good relations between the two countries.
In Nov. 2018, Both countries agreed to open the Kartarpur corridor for Sikh Community: Terrorists, supported by Pakistan, attacked military base areas of Uri, resulted in the martyred of 21 Indian soldiers. India on 29 September 2016, in reply to this attack, made a surgical strike in POK and killed almost 40 to 50 terrorists.
Again on Feb. 14 2019, Pak supported terrorists made a terrorist attack in Pulwama resulted in the deaths of 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel. In response to this Pulwama attack, Balakot airstrike was conducted by India in the early morning hours of February 26, 2019, when Indian warplanes crossed the border and dropped bombs in the vicinity of the town of Balakot. Due to this airstrike, more than 250-300 Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists were killed in Balakot in the violence.
Conclusion: We can conclude that given the political will and a spirit of giving and take, most problems can be solved through bilateral negotiations. Pakistan should stop helping terrorists immediately and should realise that Kashmir is an integral part of India.
India-Bangladesh Relations
Question 2. Analyse the differences in the relationship between India and Bangladesh. Answer: Bangladesh, which was a part of Pakistan and was known as East Pakistan, emerged as an independent state in 1971. East Bengal was not given fair treatment by the rulers of Pakistan and it was made virtually a colony. In an election held early in 1971, Sheikh Mujib’s Awami League got a majority in Pakistan Parliament. But Sheikh Mujib was not called to form a government and he was arrested. East Bengal declared independence and the liberation war started. India helped Awami League in the war which took place between India and Pakistan in Dec. 1971.
Pakistan was defeated in the war: India was the first country to grant recognition to the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. India got Sheikh Mujib Rehman, the first President of Bangladesh, released from detention in Pakistan and signed a treaty with Bangladesh for friendship, peace and co-operation for twenty-five years in 1972. A trade agreement was reached in March 1972 for the economic reconstruction of Bangladesh.
There was a mutual agreement on Farakka barrage and sharing of Ganga waters. But the assassination of Sheikh Mujib followed by the military dictatorship in Bangladesh created tension between India and Bangladesh. The dispute started between them over Ganga waters which were settled by an agreement in Oct. 1977. Chief Martial Law Administrator H.M. Ershad visited India on October 6, 1982. India and Bangladesh decided to terminate the 1977 Farakka agreement to undertake feasibility studies.
Both agreed on an interim arrangement on the question of sharing the Ganga water and augmenting its flow. The Summit decided to set up an Indo-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission. The Summit talks between Mrs Gandhi and General Ershad covered a wide area of understanding and mutual accommodation which augured well for future relations between India and Bangladesh. The joint communique issued at the end of General Ershad’s visit to Delhi conveyed much more than an interim accord on Farakka and a settlement of the Tin Bigha lease issue.
Tin Bigha Corridor: A major irritant in Indo- Bangladesh relations was removed when the Tin Bigha Corridor was opened on June 26, 1992, amidst heavy security by central paramilitary forces and the state Armed Police. According to the modalities of the agreement formalised by the governments of the two countries on March 26, 1992, the movement of Bangladesh nationals along the corridor would be regulated to avoid intermingling with Indian nationals.
Chakma Refugees: The repatriation of Chakma refugees, which was to have begun on June 8, 1993, on the basis of an understanding reached between India and Bangladesh during Bangladesh Communication Minister’s visit to New Delhi and Tripura, remained a non-starter. The repatriation of Chakma refugees started on 15th Feb. 1994. The 12-year-old Chakma problem came to an end on Feb. 27, 1998, with all remaining refugees being repatriated to their ancestral homeland in Bangladesh.
Ganga Water Pact: On Dec. 11, 1996, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed visited India. On Dec. 12, India and Bangladesh signed the Ganga water-sharing treaty leaving behind a long period of mutual distrust and suspicion.
The first-ever trilateral business summit, which brought together the Prime Minister of India, Pakistan and Bangladesh in Dhaka on 15th Jan. 1998, pledged their commitment to consolidate and strengthen the on-going efforts for achieving sustainable development. India, Pakistan and Bangladesh reaffirmed their goal of achieving a free trade area in South Asia by the year 2001 reiterated their commitment to liberalisation of commerce within the region.
Visit of Bangladesh Prime Minister to India: Bangladesh Prime Minister, Mrs Sheikh Hasina visited India on 16th June 1998. India and Bangladesh stressed that bilateral problems should be resolved within a bilateral framework. Bangladesh reiterated its commitment that its territory would not be allowed to be used for anti-India activities.
Bus Service: India and Bangladesh entered a new era of bilateral relations with the launch of bus service linking Kolkata with Dhaka on June 19, 1999. India also agreed to provide Bangladesh with a credit of? 200 crore. India and Bangladesh agreed to start a new bus link between Agartala and Dhaka on April 9, 2000.
Train Service: India and Bangladesh signed an agreement to run goods train which revived an old route through the Benapole-Petrapole border points on July 4, 2000.
Indian Troops Die in Border Clashes: In April 2001, suddenly the border with Bangladesh had exploded into shooting, killing and high voltage tension. India lodged a strong protest with Bangladesh.
Joint Boundary Working Groups Meeting: In July 2001, a three-day meeting between India and Bangladesh ended on a positive note as both sides reiterated their commitment towards expeditious resolution of all pending matters.
Visit of Indian External Affair Minister: In August 2002, long-standing bilateral issues were discussed at the official talks between visiting Indian External Affair Minister and Foreign Minister of Bangladesh. But failed to make any breakthrough in settling any of the bilateral irritants.
Border Patrolling: On August 6, 2005, India and Bangladesh decided to intensify border patrolling and work out ways to enhance trade and economic co-operation.
Awami League Chief Sheikh Hasina became Prime Minister of Bangladesh in January 2008: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina favours strong ties with India and vowed not to allow Bangladesh’s territory to be used for terrorism against its neighbours.
Maitree Express: A new Chapter was opened in India-Bangladesh relationship on April 14, 2008, when the Maitree Express rolled out of the Kolkata station on its inaugural journey to Dhaka.
With the inauguration of the train service, fresh hopes of improved ties between the two countries have been created.
In Jan. 2010, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Shiekh Hasina visited India, during her visit, India offered help and grant to Bangladesh for its basic infrastructure development.
During the SAARC conference held in Nepal in 2014, Indian Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi and Bangladeshi Prime Minister Smt. Sheikh Hasina met in Nepal. During this meeting, both leaders discussed bilateral issues.
In June 2015, Indian Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi visited Bangladesh. During this, visit, both countries signed 22 feet, including the exchange of instrument of Ratification of the 1974 Land Boundary Agreement and its 2011 Protocol.
In April, Bangladeshi Prime Minister visited India. During this visit, both countries signed 22 Agreements.
In May 2018, Bangladeshi Prime Minister visited India. During this visit, both countries discuss bilateral issues including the Rohingya issue.
In October 2019, Bangladeshi Prime Minister visited India. During this visit, both countries signed 7 important agreements regarding bilateral cooperation and security.
Conclusion: No doubt both Bangladesh and India have their grievances against each other, but these can be redressed in an amicable atmosphere. Given goodwill and understanding between New Delhi and Dhaka, most bilateral problems can be solved without any difficulty.
Question 3. Examine the sequence of events related to the formation of government in Bangladesh from 1971 to 1990. Answer: Bangladesh was a part of Pakistan and was known as East Pakistan (1947-1971). East Bengal was not given fair treatment by the rulers of Pakistan and it was virtually made a colony. The people of this region resented the domination of Western Pakistan and the imposition of the Urdu language. In an election held early 1971 in Pakistan, Sheikh Mujib’s Awami League got a majority in Pakistan Parliament. But Sheikh Mujib was not called to form the government and was arrested. East Bengal declared independence and a liberation war started. War took place between India and Pakistan in December 1971 and Pakistan was defeated in the war.
India was the first country to grant recognition to the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. Bangladesh drafted its Constitution and declared full faith in Democracy, Secularism and Socialism. Sheikh Mujib was the first President of Bangladesh. In 1975, the Constitution of Bangladesh was amended and presidential form of Govt was adopted in place of parliamentary government.
Sheikh Mujib abolished all parties except his own party i.e., Awami League. He was assassinated in a military uprising in August 1975. Military ruler Zia Rehman formed his own party and won the elections in 1979. He was assassinated and Lt. General H.M. Ershad became the ruler of Bangladesh. He was later elected as the President of Bangladesh. President Ershad resigned in 1990 once again elections were held in 1991. Since then democracy is working in Bangladesh.
India-Nepal Relations Question 4. Discuss the main issues of conflicts and co-operation in the relationship between India and Nepal. Answer: India and Nepal are not only neighbours but also have had long cultural, political and religious links. In language and religion, gods and goddesses, food and clothing the two countries, India and Nepal, have more in common with each other than with any third country of the world. Both have been living as good and friendly neighbours.
Issues of Conflicts in Indo-Nepal Relations. The following factors can be described as the factors which negatively influenced to course of Indo-Nepal relations: 1. Nepal’s Fears. Being a small state, Nepal feared India. Nepal feared that India could attempt an intervention in Nepal for securing its interests vis-a-vis China. Nepal lived with the fear of Indian interference in its internal affairs.
2. India’s Initial Lack of Interest in Nepal. During the initial years of her independence, the Indian foreign policy did not give much importance to relations with Nepal.
3. The Thesis of ‘Special Relation with Nepal’. Indian thesis of ‘special relation with Nepal’ gave the impression that India regarded Nepal as an area of India’s influence.
4. The China Factor in Indo-Nepal Relations. In China, Nepal saw an opportunity of finding a counterpoise to India. India as such viewed with concern any attempt that was being made by Nepal for cultivating friendship and co-operation with China.
5. The Issue of Zone of Peace. Since 1975, Nepal has been trying to get recognition as a zone of peace. But India felt that Nepal did not really need such a status. Nepal, however, regarded this proposal as a vital necessity for securing its national interests and world peace.
6. Hijacking of Indian Airlines Plane. The hijacking of Indian Airlines plane on the Kathmandu- Delhi route in December 2000 created tension and security concern.
7. ISI Activities. Nepal has been used by the ISI in a big way for carrying out acts of sabotage against India.
8. Eight Thorny Issues. According to Nepalese experts, there are at least eight thorny issues- (a) India’s illegal construction of the Laxmanpur barrage in Bharuch district within 300 metres of the border (b) the silent demographic aggression by Indians taking advantage of the open border (c) Indian occupation of Kalapani (d) Denial of market access to Nepalese businessmen (e) Four per cent special additional tax levied on Nepalese goods (f) Lack of provisions in the Mahakali Project agreement to sell hydel power to other countries (g) India’s unwillingness to get involved in the Bhutanese refugee’s problem and (h) the murder of Nepalese citizens by ULFA militants in Assam.
9. 1950 Friendship Treaty. Nepal believes that this treaty places it on an unequal footing with India. Nepal has desired a review of the treaty.
Areas of Co-operation between India and Nepal. A large number of Nepalese youth received higher education in the Indian Universities. Under the Colombo Plan Agreement 1954, the Indian Govt undertook to contribute towards the development of communications, irrigation and water supplies projects in Nepal. Indian Public Works Department has constructed several roads in Nepal. India has given a lot of economic aid to Nepal in its development.
The king of Nepal visited India many times and leaders of India went to Nepal. In 1977, the Prime Minister of India, Mr Morarji Desai visited Nepal. The Prime Minister of Nepal, Mr Surya Bahadur Thapa, visited Delhi in February 1983. India and Nepal agreed to take up three major river projects of benefit to both countries by harnessing their common water resources. Both countries agreed to set up a Joint Commission at the ministerial level to promote economic co-operation. On March 2, 1983, India agreed to provide Nepal with the assistance of? 8.7 crores for the expansion of Bir Hospital.
Nepal’s first-elected government in 32 years was sworn on May 29, 1991. Mr Girija Prasad Koirala became the Prime Minister of Nepal. In his first policy announcement, Mr Koirala said that his Nepali Congress Government would maintain a very close and cordial relationship with India.
On 21st Oct. 1992 India and Nepal decided to expand bilateral co-operation. In April 1995, India agreed to provide additional transit facilities for Nepalese goods at Kandha and Mumbai. Successful Indo-Nepal talks on water services were held.
In 1996, India and Nepal signed a treaty on exploiting the Mahakali river basin for electricity and irrigation.
On 5th June 1997, the Prime Minister of India Mr I.K. Gujral visited Kathmandu on three days official visit. India accepted Nepal’s request for an additional transit route to Bangladesh via Phulbari (India).
Visit of Nepali Prime Minister: On 31st July 2000, the Prime Minister of Nepal Mr Girija Prasad Koirala came to India for a week-long visit. Both the countries agreed on a wide-ranging package of confidence-building measures to remove irritants and give a new dimension to bilateral ties.
On 1st February 2005, King Gyanendra removed popular Prime Minister and also put all other political party leaders under house arrest and suspended fundamental freedoms. India decided not to intervene in Nepal’s internal affairs but advised King to restore democracy in Nepal.
In April 2008, elections to the Constituent Assembly were held in Nepal. Maoists emerged as the biggest political force. On 28th May 2008 Monarchy was abolished in Nepal. The Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal got its first president on July 21, 2008, when the Constituent Assembly elected Nepali Congress leader Dr Ram Baran Yadav as the President of Nepal.
Visit of Nepali President: Nepali President Sh. Ram Baran Yadav visited India on 16 Feb. 2010. New Delhi offered to Nepal a $ 250 million soft loan through EXIM Bank and signed four major accords with Nepal. The four accords signed by the two countries are:
New air services agreement.
MOU on development of railway infrastructure at five border points.
MOU on development of India-Nepal friendship polytechnic at Hetavda in Makwanpur district of Nepal.
MOU on the establishment of India-Nepal friendship Convention Centre at Birgunj in Nepal.
Indian Prime Ministers visit to Nepal. In August 2014, Indian Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi visited Nepal. During this visit, he announced $1 billion credit to Nepal.
On Sept. 20, 2015, Nepal promulgated a constitution despite India’s plea to postpone until it could be more acceptable to a greater number of people in the Himalayan republic. This incident Negatively influenced Indo-Nepal Relations.
In February 2016, Prime Minister of Nepal Sh. K.P. Sharma visited India. During this visit, both countries signed nine agreements.
In August 2017 Nepali Prime Minister visited India. During this, visit, both countries signed 8 important agreements.
In August 2018, Indian Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi visited Nepal to attend the BIMSTEC Summit during this visit, both countries discuss bilateral issues also.
These days relations between the two countries are very cordial. The bases of friendship between the two countries are non-interference in each other’s international affairs, frequent consultations on matters of common interest and financial and technical aid by India for Nepal’s economic development.
Question 5. Study the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow: Answer: The lack of genuine international support for democratic rule in Pakistan has further encouraged the military to continue its dominance. The United States and other Western countries have encouraged the military’s authoritarian rule in the past, for their own reasons. Given their fear of the threat of what they call ‘global Islamic terrorism’ and the apprehension that Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal might fall into the hands of these terrorist groups, the military regime in Pakistan has been seen as the protector of Western interests in West Asia and South Asia. (i) What is meant by ‘global Islamic terrorism’? Answer: ‘Global Islamic’ terrorism means that terrorism is spread in the whole world.
(ii) Why did Pakistan lack genuine international support for the democratic rule? Answer: Pakistan lacked genuine international support for the democratic rule because the united states and other western countries have encouraged the military’s authoritarian rule, in Pakistan, for their own interests and reasons.
(iii) Why was the military regime in Pakistan considered as the protector of Western interests in West Asia and South Asia? Answer: The united states and the other Western countries had the apprehension that Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal might fall into the hands of Islamic terrorist groups. That is why the military regime in Pakistan was encouraged as the protector of Western interest in West Asia and South Asia.
Question 6. In the given political outline map of South Asia, five countries have been marked as A, B, C, D and E. Identify them on the basis of the information given below and write their correct names in your answer book along with their respective serial number of the information used and the concerned alphabets as per the following format:
An important country but it is not considered to be a part of South Asia.
The country has a successful Democratic System.
This country has had both Civilian and Military rulers.
This country had Constitutional Monarchy.
An Island nation which was a Sultanate till 1968.
Answer:
Sr. No. of the information
Alphabet
Name of Country
(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)(v)
BDEAC
ChinaSri LankaBangladeshNepalMaldives
Question 7. In the given outline map of South Asia, five countries have been marked as (A), (B), (C), (D) and (E). Identify them on the basis of the information given below and write their correct names in your answer book with their respective serial number of the information used and the alphabet concerned as per the following format:
The country has experienced civilian as well as a military rule both.
Democracy was restored in this country in 2006.
This country is still a monarchy.
The Parliament of this country voted unanimously to introduce the multiparty system in June 2005.
This country is a part of India’s. ‘Look East Policy via Myanmar’.
Answer:
Sr. No. of the information used Concerned
Alphabet
Name of Country
(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)(v)
BCAED
PakistanNepalBhutanMaldivesBangladesh.
Question 8. Read the passage given below carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Despite the mixed record of the democratic experience, the people in all these countries of South Asia share the aspiration for democracy. A recent survey of the attitudes of the people in the five big countries of the region showed that there is widespread support for democracy in all these countries. Ordinary citizens, rich as well as poor and belonging to different religions, view the idea of democracy positively and support the institutions of representative democracy. They prefer democracy over any other form of government and think that democracy is suitable for their country. These are significant findings, for it was earlier believed that democracy could flourish and find support only in prosperous countries of the world. (i) Assess the popularity of representative democracy. Answer: The people share the aspiration for democracy and support the institution of representative democracy. People prefer democracy over any other form of government and think that democracy is suitable for their country.
(ii) Analyse the reasons for the widespread support for democracy in the five big countries of South Asia. Answer: In the five big countries of South Asia, there is widespread support for democracy, because of all citizens, rich as well as poor and belonging to different religions, support and prefer the institution of representative democracy. They prefer democracy over any other form of government and think that democracy is suitable for their country.
(iii) How far do you agree with the statement that democracy can flourish and find support only in prosperous countries? Answer: It is wrong to believe that democracy can flourish and find support only in prosperous countries. The people in five big countries India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal showed their wide¬spread support for democracy.
Question 9. Examine any three major areas of conflict between India and Pakistan. Answer: Following are the major areas of conflict between India and Pakistan:
1. Kashmir Problem: Kashmir is a major issue of dispute between India and Pakistan. Before Independence, Jammu and Kashmir were one of the 565 princely states, ruled by Maharaja Hari Singh. On October 20, 1947, several thousand tribesmen armed with machine guns, mortars, etc., attacked the frontiers of the state. These tribesmen were aided by Pakistan. On 26 October, Maharaja Hari Singh signed the Instrument of Accession and Indian troops dashed to Kashmir. Pakistan refused to recognise this accession and the war continued for 14 months. On January 1, 1948, India lodged a complaint with U.N. Security Council and on January 5, 1949 ceasefire was announced by both the countries.
In September 1965, Pakistan forces attacked India. Indian forces gave them a crushing defeat. A U.N. Security Council resolution adopted on Sept. 20, 1965, called for a ceasefire. Pakistan again attacked India on 3rd Dec. 1971 and after the war, the Shimla Agreement was signed between the two countries. Kashmir problem still continues to exist. On 5-6 August 2019, Article 370 was abrogated from the Indian Constitution and nowadays India’s stand is that POK will be the centre point of India-Pakistan dialogue.
2. Terrorist activities by Pakistan in India: Another important conflict is the terrorist activities, which Pakistani government encourage and train and help the militants by arms training and money to carry out terrorist strikes in India. Its spy agency ISI is alleged to be involved in India’s north-east operating secretly through Bangladesh and Nepal. Terrorist activities on India’s sea-shore, Pathankot attack, 26/11 Bombay Taj attack, attack in Uri and Pulwama attack are the few examples of it.
3. Violation of Shimla pact and Lahore pact: Pakistan, often violate the terms and conditions of Shimla pact and Lahore Samjotha and thus increase the tension between two nations.
Question 10. Explain Nepal’s transition from monarchy to democracy. Answer: In 2006 in Nepal an extraordinary popular movement was started. Actually, Nepal was a monarch state whose king was King Birendra. In 1990 he gave his acceptance to constitutional Monarchy. Yet the King remained the formal head of the state but actual power was in the hands of the democratically elected people. In 2001 in a mysterious massacre, the royal family of King Birendra was killed with other 5 members of his family.
Then king Gyanendra took charge who did not like the idea of constitutional Monarchy. In Feb. 2005, he took advantage of the weak and unpopular government and dismissed the Prime Minister. Then he dissolved the Parliament as well and took charge of the country. But in April 2006 a popular movement was started in Nepal to restore democracy and to overthrow the king.
All major political parties of the country formed an alliance called Seven Party Alliance (SPA) and called for a four days strike. Later on, it was changed into the indefinite strike and then it was joined by Maoist insurgents. Security forces were unable to disperse the lakhs of people whose demand was to restore democracy in the country.
Till 1st April the number of protesters had risen to 3-5 lakh and they gave an ultimatum to King. King half-heartedly accepted those demands and gave some concessions. But leaders of the movement rejected those concessions. On 24 April 2004, King yielded to pressure and accepted all those demands. Parliament was restored which took away the powers of the King. In this way, democracy was restored in Nepal. On Sept 20, 2015, the New Constitution was implemented in Nepal.
In This Post we are providing CHAPTER 6 INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONNCERT MOST IMPORTANT QUESTIONS for Class 12 POLITICAL SCIENCE PART- A CONTEMPORARY WORLD POLITICS which will be beneficial for students. These solutions are updated according to 2021-22 syllabus. These MCQS can be really helpful in the preparation of Board exams and will provide you with a brief knowledge of the chapter.
NCERT MOST IMPORTANT QUESTIONSONINTERNATIONAL ORGANISATION
Question 1. What steps should be taken to strengthen the UNO? Answer: In order to strengthen the UNO following steps can be taken:
Reform of the organisation’s structure and processes. This step should be taken :
To increase the permanent and non-permanent member in the UN Security Council so that it can represent contemporary world politics effective and better way.
To bring improvement in the UN’s budgetary procedure and its administration.
Review of the issues that fall within the jurisdiction of the organisation. It will facilitate the following:
Greater role of UN in maintaining world peace and security.
Limiting the role of UN to develop¬ment and humanitarian work.
Question 2. Explain any four reasons as to why India should be given a permanent membership in the UN Security Council. Answer: The four reasons suggesting that India should be given a permanent membership in the UN Security Council are :
India is the second most populous country which constitutes l/5th of the population of the world.
India is also the world’s largest democracy.
India actively participated in UN’s progrAllmes and played a material role in keeping and managing place and cooperation.
The regular financial aid to UN and evolution of its economy support India’s desire to be the permanent member.
Question 3. Match the following organs/agencies of the UN and their functions:
(a)
Economic and Social Council
(i) Look after, administration and coordination of UN affairs
(b)
International Atomic Energy Agency
(ii) Provides shelter and medical help during emergencies
(c)
UN High Commission for Refugees
(iii) Performs economic and social welfare functions of the member countries
(d)
Secretariat
(iv) Safe and peaceful use of nuclear technology
Answer:
(a)
Economic and Social Council
(iii) Performs economic and social welfare functions of the member countries
(b)
International Atomic Energy Agency
(iv) Safe and peaceful use of nuclear technology
(c)
UN High Commission for Refugees
(ii) Provides shelter and medical help during emergencies
(d)
Secretariat
(i) Look after, administration and coordination of UN affairs
Question 4. How are international organisation helpful to the nations? Answer: International organisation can be helpful to nations following ways :
They facilitate plateform where different countries can cooperate for better living condition for all of us.
They help in managing the matter of war and peace.
They provide mechanisms, rules and human resources to the member states to deal with issues and problems of global concern.
They develop a sense of shared responsibility for shared problems such as terrorism, climate change, global warming etc.
They produce important information and conduct research which can be helpful for international society to have better understanding of state of affairs.
Question 5. Trace the evolution of the United Nations since its establishment in 1945. How does it function with the help of its structures and agencies? Answer: The United Nations was established in 1945 after the end of Second World War as a successor to the League of Nations. The United Nations Charter was signed by 51 states for setting up of UN.
Objectives of UN. The basic aim was to achieve what League of Nations was not able to achieve during the two World Wars. The other objectives of UN are as follows:
Prevention of conflicts and facilitating cooperation Among nations.
To stop conflicts Among states resulting into war and if it takes the shape of war, to limit the effects of war.
To reduce the reasons for conflict by bringing the countries together for improving social and economic- development all over the world.
UN Structures and Agencies UN includes many different structures for dealing with different issues. The issue relating to war and peace, and differences between member states are dealt by discussion in General Assembly as well as in the security council education. The other issues such as social and economic are dealt by a number of agencies which include :
WHO World Health Organisation.
UNDP United Nations Development ProgrAllme.
UNHRC United Nations Human Rights Commission.
UNHCR United Nations High Commission for Refugees.
UNICEF United Nations Children’s Fund.
UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation.
Question 6. Describe the two basic reforms of the UN on which almost everyone agrees that they are necessary after the cold war. Answer: As reform and improvement are fundamental to any organisation, there have been demands for changes in the UN from different countries. The nature of reforms that are desired are of two types:
Reform of the organisation’s structure and processes.
Review of the issues that fall within the jurisdiction of the organisation.
The structural reform’s major area was the functioning of the security council. This covers the increment of permanent and non-permanent members of UN Security Council so as to show in better way the realities of present world politics. Whereas the proposed increment should be from Asia, Africa and South America. The another area of reform for UN was its budgetary procedures and its administration.
When the areas of jurisdiction are taken, some states and experts wish that the UN should have more role in peace and security missions whereas others wish to restrict UN’s role in development and humanitarian work like health, education environment, population control, human rights, gender and social justice.
Question 7. Which three complaints related to the UN Security Council were reflected in the resolution passed by the UN General Assembly in 1992? Describe any three criteria that have been proposed for new permanent members of the security council. Answer: In 1992, with a view to bring reforms in the UN Security Council, a resolution was adopted by the UN General Assembly. The resolution was about following three main complaints:
The security council is not adequately representing the present political realities.
Decisions by security council are reflective of Western values and interests and dominance by a few powers.
The representation is not on an equitable basis.
In view of reorganisation, UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan initiated an inquiry into the ways of reformation of UN on 1st January, 1997.
After the years of inquiry, following criteria have been suggested for the permanent and non-permanent members of Security Council.
For criteria, To be a new member following criteria should be fulfilled:
It should be a major economic power.
It should contribute substantially to the UN budget.
Population of the nation should be high.
Nation should respect human rights and democracy.
The inclusion of that country should make the security council look more vivid in terms of geography, economic systems and culture.
It should be a major military power.
Question 8. Describe the composition of the UN Security Council. What is the major difference in the privileges given to its permanent and non-permanent members? Answer: Composition of the UN Security Council. The Security Council is an important organ of the United Nations Organisation (UNO). It consists of five permanent members (China, United States of America, United Kingdom, Russia and France) and ten non-permanent members who are elected for a period of two years).
The selection of the permanent members were on the basis of their being powerful immediately after the Second World War and they being the victors in the war. There is the major difference in the privileges given to the permanent and non-permanent members.
Privileges to Its Permanent and Non-Permanent Members The UN Charter gave the permanent members a privileged position to bring about stability in the world. After the Second World War the main privileges enjoyed by the permanent members are :
Permanency
Veto power
The non-permanent members are elected only for two years at a time and cannot be re-elected immediately after completing two years. They are elected in a manner so that they represent all continents of the world.
The non-permanent members do not have the veto power. When decisions are taken by security council, voting is done. All members have one vote. But the permanent members can vote in a negative manner so that even if all other permanent and non-permanent members vote for a particular decision, any permanent member’s negative vote can stall the decision. This negative vote is the veto.
Question 9. Assess any six steps suggested since 2005 to make the United Nations more relevant in the changing context. Answer: The following steps were proposed to make the UN more relevant in the changing scenario :
Peace building commission will be created.
UN as an international community will accept its responsibility in case off failure of National Government to save their citizens from atrocities.
Creation of Human Rights Council (operation since 19th June, 2006)
Agreements regarding achievement of millennium development goals.
To condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
Democracy fund will be created.
Agreement regarding dissolving the trusteeship council.
Question 10. How far did the UN perform its role successfully in maintaining peace in the world? Explain. Answer: The UN performs its role successfully in maintaining peace in the world. This can be justified from the points below :
US leaders, in spite of their frequent criticism of the UN, do see the organisation as serving a purpose in bringing together over 190 nations in dealing with conflict and social and economic development.
The UN provides an arena in which it is possible to modify US attitudes and policies.
Although the rest of the world is rarely united against Washington, and it is virtually impossible to ‘balance’ US power. However, the UN does provide a space within which argument against specific US attitudes and policies are heard and compromises and concessions can be shaped.
The UN is an imperfect body, but without it the world would be worse off. Given the growing connections and links between societies and issues-what we often call interdependence-it is hard to imagine how more than seven billion people would live together without an organisation such as the UN.
Technology promises to increase planetary interdependence, and therefore the importance of the UN will only increase.
Peoples and governments also find ways of supporting and using the UN and other international organisations in ways that are consistent with their own interests and the interests of the international community more broadly.
In This Post we are providing CHAPTER 4 ALTERNATIVE CENTRES OF POWERNCERT MOST IMPORTANT QUESTIONS for Class 12 POLITICAL SCIENCE PART- A CONTEMPORARY WORLD POLITICS which will be beneficial for students. These solutions are updated according to 2021-22 syllabus. These MCQS can be really helpful in the preparation of Board exams and will provide you with a brief knowledge of the chapter.
NCERT MOST IMPORTANT QUESTIONSONALTERNATIVE CENTRES OF POWER
Question 1. How can the Euro pass a danger to the US Dollar? Answer: European Union has a great economic influence in the world market including the market of the United States. Euro is the currency of the EU. Euro can pass a danger to the US dollar through:
The EU is the world biggest economy with a GDP of more than $ 12 trillion in 2005 and this was slightly larger than the US.
Share of EU in world trade is three times larger than that of the US and this is the reason why the EU can be more assertive in trade disputes with the US and China.
The economic power of the EU provides great influence over Asia, Africa and its close neighbours.
Many countries have joined the EU who are directly linked with the US and carry dollar as their currency. These countries can take economic programmes which are against the interest of the US.
Question 2. Describe any two aspects each of cordiality and tension in the relationship between India and China. Answer: Two aspects of cordiality in the relationship between India and China are :
Bilateral trade between India and China has increased from $ 338 million in 1992 to more than $ 18 billion in 2006.
Lately, both countries have agreed upon to cooperate with each other in areas that could otherwise create conflict between both nations.
Two aspects of tension in the relationship between India and China are :
When China attacked Tibet in 1950-51, Dalai Lama, a political and religious leader of Tibet took shelter in India. As a result relation between the two countries became bitter.
Controversy over MacMohan line, the borderline between India and China and border conflict in 1962, over competing for territorial claims in Arunachal Pradesh and in the Aksai Chin region of Ladakh.
Question 3. Describe any two similarities and two differences between the USA and the EU. Answer: EU and USA carry similarities as well as differences between them.
Similarities between them are :
Both have a democratic form of governments.
Both the USA and the EU are federal structures. USA states whereas the EU is a combination of different states of regional blocs.
Differences between them are :
USA is a country with the US dollar as its currency, whereas the EU has Euro as its currency.
Basis of unity in the USA is political and military and EU has econ = nic cooperation as its basis r>l unity.
Question 4. Give any two reasons why regionally and globally China has become an economic power to reckon with. Answer: Regionally and globally China has become an economic power to reckon to believe with as:
The integration of China’s economy has considerable influence on trade partners.
Adjustments through economic considerations have been made with Japan, the US, ASEAN and Russia. Its investments and help in American, African and Latin states have helped it to project itself a major global player for developing states.
Question 5. Evaluate any three major factors responsible for making the European Union a political force from economic forces. Answer: The European Union has gradually evolved from an economic union into a political union. It has become more a nation-state. Though it does not have Constitution, it has its own flag, anthem, founding date and currency. It has a common foreign and security policy in its dealings with other states.
The areas of cooperation have been expanded by the European Union through admitting new members from the former Soviet bloc. This shifting of power of the EU from economic to political force has not been easy as people were not very enthusiastic. There are also reservations about including some new countries within the European Union.
A major factor behind this is
Its aim was to make Europe politically, economically and culturally strong enough to face powers like the USA, Russia.
In order to send grievances of European countries to the UN, two countries i.e. Great Britain and France are members of the Security Council of UNO.
Due to the presence of some non-permanent members of the UN Security Council, the EU will be able to influence US policies.
Question 6. Analyse any two factors responsible for the European Union to be a highly influential regional organisation.
Answer: European Union is considered highly influential. For types of influences Economic influence EU with more than $12 trillion (2005) is the largest economy in the world surpassing even that of the USA. Euro can cause a danger to the US hegemony of the dollar. The share of the EU is three times greater than that of the US and this makes the EU more powerful in trade disputes with the US and China. Its economy is very impressive and thus, it becomes influential to its neighbours and in Asia and Africa. It plays a significant role in the World Trade Organisation.
Military influence EU stands second in combined armed forces and on total spending on defence. Its members France and Britain have over 550 nuclear warheads and arsenals. EU is the second largest source of space and communication technology. Thus, this super national association has been able to intercede in economic, political and social areas. But in certain cases, member states have their own foreign relations and defence policies.
For example, in the Iraqi invasion, where Britain and some other members of the EU joined a US-led coalition of willing, whereas France and Germany opposed the same.
Limitations of the European Union European Union as a supranational association has been able to intercede in economic, political and social areas. But there are certain limitations :
Member states of EU have their own foreign relation and defence policies, that often odds with each other.
Presence of deep-seated ‘Euro-skepticism’ in some parts of Europe about the EU’s integrationist agenda.
Question 7. Explain the factors responsible for the rise of the Chinese economy. Answer: China is the third major alternative centre of power. It is the fastest growing economy. China at one time was based on the Soviet model and at that time, it broke all the links with the capitalist world. Following are the factors responsible for the rising of the Chinese economy :
Use of Soviet Model China accepted the Soviet model and relied on its resources. China decided to substitute imports by domestic goods and create state-owned heavy industries from capital produced by agriculture.
Development of Industrial Economy China used all its resources to develop an industrial economy. All citizens were provided with education and health programmes.
Relationship with USA China established a relationship with the USA in 1972.
Modernisation Modernisations in the field of agriculture, industry, military, science and technology were proposed.
Major Policies Announced Open Door Policy was announced by Deng Xiaoping in 1978, which aimed at a generation of high productivity by investments in capital and technology from abroad.
The era of Privatisation Privatisation of agriculture in 1982 and privatisation of industry in 1998 was done.
Establishment of SEZ’s Special Economic Zones was set up. The state had a centralised role in setting up of China’s economy.
Question 8. Explain the vision of the ASEAN for 2020. Answer: ASEAN was established in 1967 with the objective to accelerate economic growth and through that ‘social progress and cultural development’. ASEAN is rapidly growing into a very important regional organisation. It has a certain vision for 2020. The features of the ASEAN vision 2020 are as follows :
Its vision 2020 has defined as an outward-looking role for ASEAN in the international community.
This builds on the existing ASEAN policy to encourage negotiations over conflicts in the region. Thus, ASEAN has mediated the end of the Cambodian conflict, the East Timor Crisis and meets annually to discuss East Asian cooperation.
ASEAN’s strength, lies in its policies of interaction and consultation with member states, with dialogue partners and with other non-regional organisations.
It is the only regional association in Asia that provides a political forum where Asian countries and the major powers can discuss political and security concerns.
Question 9. Examine the changing Indo-China relations. Answer: For India-China relationship The India-China relations examined are as below: Friendly relations
After the Chinese Revolution in 1949, India was one of the first countries to recognise the communist government.
Prime Minister Nehru and Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai adopted Panchsheel, the Five Principles of Peaceful Co-existence on 29 April 1954.
The Chinese invasion and strained relationship
China annexed Tibet in 1950 and thus removed a historical buffer between the two countries.
Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama had sought asylum in India in 1959. China alleged that India was allowing anti-China activities in India.
Boundary disputes arose between the two countries over Aksai-China area in the Ladakh region and NEFA in the Eastern region.
The boundary disputes led to a massive Chinese invasion in October 1962. Finally, China declared a unilateral ceasefire but relations between the two countries remained strained.
Conflict of 1962 and Post-Cold Era marked a major change in Indo-China relations. Indo-China Conflict of 1962 In 1962, border dispute regarding territorial claims in Arunachal Pradesh and in Aksai Chin made India suffer military reverses. This had an impact on relations between both of them.
Till 1976, no progress was seen in the betterment of their relations, but after that, they improved slowly. The change in China’s leadership allowed both countries to improve their relations. Border issues resolution was also started in 1981.
Indo-China Relation After Cold War End of the Cold War marked various changes in the relationship between India and China. Both India and China consider themselves as rising powers in international politics.
After the visit of Rajiv Gandhi in 1988, both governments tried to maintain ‘peace and silence’ on the border. Agreements regarding cultural exchange and cooperation were signed. Four border posts were also opened. Trade between India and China grew at 30 per cent per year since 1999. An increase in bilateral trade from $ 338 million in 1992 to more than $ 18 billion in 2006 was seen. India and China are following the same policies in international economic institutions like the World Trade Organisation.
The nuclear tests by India in 1998 created tension between the two, but the process of normalisation was continued. No issues created problems between both the countries, be it Pakistan’s nuclear programme being assisted by China.
Leaders from both countries frequently visit each other’s nation and this way, they are becoming familiar with each other. Through an increase in transportation and communication links and working on common economic interests development of sound relationship has been taking place.
Question 10. Analyse the basis of the projection of China to overtake the US as the world’s largest economy by 2040. (Delhi 2008) Answer: China is viewed to dominate the US by the year 2040. The basis of the projection are :
China is considered as the driver of East Asian growth because of the economic integration into regions.
China is considered to be very powerful and factors such as population, land mass, resources, regional location and political influence add to its strength.
China announced ‘Open Door Policy’ in 1978 which aimed at a generation of high productivity by investments in capital and technology from abroad.
In the economic sector various steps were taken to encourage investment by Western entrepreneurs for modernisation of:
Industry
Science and technology
Agriculture
Military
In 1980, China became a member of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund.
Privatisation of agriculture and industry helped in growing economy rapidly.
Foreign trade grew with the creation of SEZs and new trading plans This resulted in high foreign exchange reserves and this way China became most significant for FDI. The above points show China’s ability to overtake the US as the world’s largest economy by 2040.
In This Post we are providing CHAPTER 1 THE COLD WAR ERANCERT MOST IMPORTANT QUESTIONS for Class 12 POLITICAL SCIENCE PART- A CONTEMPORARY WORLD POLITICS which will be beneficial for students. These solutions are updated according to 2021-22 syllabus. These MCQS can be really helpful in the preparation of Board exams and will provide you with a brief knowledge of the chapter.
NCERT MOST IMPORTANT QUESTIONSONTHE COLD WAR ERA
Question 1. How far is it correct to say the international alliances during the Cold War era were determined by the requirements of the superpowers and the calculations of the smaller states? Explain. Answer: To a large extent, it is correct to say that the International alliance during the Cold War era were determined by the requirements of the superpower. It is justified from the following points :
1. The smaller states decided to an alliance with the two superpowers because they were promised protection, weapons and economic aid against their local rivals. Hence, this led to a division of the world into two camps.
2. The countries which sided with the US came to know as a Western alliance and those who backed USSR were known as Eastern alliance. The Western alliance countries organized themselves into an organization known as the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). It came into existence in April 1949. It was an association of twelve states which declared that armed attack on any one of them in Europe or North America would be regarded as an attack on all of them.
The Eastern Alliance, on the other hand, known as the Warsaw Pact, was led by the Soviet Union. It was created in 1955 and its principal function was to counter NATO’s forces in Europe.
3. Europe became the bone of contention between the superpowers. They also used their military power to bring countries into their respective alliances. For example, the Soviet Union used its influence in Eastern Europe just to ensure that the Eastern half of Europe remained within its sphere of influence.
4. The United State built an alliance system called the South East Asian Treaty Organisation (SEATO) and the Central Treaty Organisation (CENTO) in East and South East Asia and in West Asia (Middle East). To counter this, the Soviet Union and communist China responded by having close relations with regional countries such as North Vietnam, North Korea, and Iraq.
Question 2. Why was the end of the Second World War considered to be the beginning of the Cold War? Explain. Answer: The end of the Second World War was considered to be the beginning of the Cold War because it led to the rise of two major centers of power. It paved the way for the Cold War Era. The Second World War came to an end with the dropping of nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki (the two Japanese cities). It led to the withdrawal of Japan from the war. The dropping of the bomb by the US was criticized as well as support.
According to the critics of this decision, the USA was aware of the surrender of Japan hence dropping the bomb was not necessary. They argue that the US action was intended to stop the Soviet Union from making military and political gains in Asia and elsewhere and to show Moscow that the United States was supreme. The supporters of the decision claim that the dropping of the bomb was a necessary step to end the war quickly and to stop further loss of American and allied lives.
The consequence of this was the rise of two new powers on the global stage. With the defeat of Germany and Japan, the devastation of Europe and in many other parts of the world, the United States and the Soviet Union became the greatest powers in the world.
Question 3. Describe any three reasons for the superpowers to have military alliances with smaller countries during the Cold War period. old War? Answer: The Cold War was the tense relationship between the US and the USSR and their allies which emerged after the Second World War. The outbreak of the Cold War was due to the different ways of thinking i.e. Socialism and Capitalism. This war was unlike other wars in which the two sides never clashed directly in battle. The fear that a relationship would end in the nuclear war did not materialize.
The USA and the USSR were the superpowers of the world. They exercised tremendous political, economic and military powers at their disposal. The reasons due to which superpowers should have military alliances with small countries were :
They entered into military alliances with smaller countries to spread their ideas and to propagate their ideologies to checkmate the other.
The small countries were economically retarded, they easily got accommodated into their military plan.
Also having a large number of smaller countries in one’s camp boosted the balance of power towards a particular bloc.
To gain access to their vital resources such as oil and minerals.
Question 4. Suppose there had been no Cold War, how would that situation have affected India’s foreign policy? Answer: The situation must have created the differences : 1. The spirit of Panchsheel (Peaceful coexistence) would have been endangered due to India’s unsafe condition after the Second World War, her existence could have been divided into many units. In addition, there were issues of shortage of food grain supply, industrial supply for the development of industries. In this case, India must have gone either into isolation or would have joined any superpower camp. India would have been a member of NATO or Warsaw Pact.
2. India must have added some better strategies to its foreign policy. If the situation had not been as it was, UNO and other institutions would not have been created. New strategies would have been framed for the existence of India.
3. Self-sufficiency has been achieved by India. If Non-Alignment was followed strictly, India has been self-sufficient.
Question 5. How did the ‘New International Economic Order’ come into being? Which reforms were proposed by UNCTAD in its report in 1972? Answer: The idea of a New International Economic Order (NIEO) was in direct response to the poor economic development in third world countries.
They were stereotyped as the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) by the advanced countries because of their state of being under-developed. Achieving economic independence was the goal of these countries and this was precisely the reason for the establishment of the NIEO.
Recognizing the right of the LDCs to develop their economies, the United Nations Conference to Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in its report titled ‘Towards a New Trade Policy for Development in 1972/ proposed a reform of the global trading system. The reforms were :
To give autonomy to LDCs so that they can have control over their natural resources.
To provide LDCs access to Western markets so that the LDCs could sell their products and hence trade could become profitable for them.
Western countries should reduce the cost of technology imported to LDCs.
LDCs should be given a greater role in international economic institutions.
Gradually, the nature of Non-Alignment changed to give greater importance to economic issues. In 1961 at the first summit, economic issues were not very important. By the mid-1970s, they had become the most important issues. Thus, NAM became an economic pressure group.
Although, these reforms sent alarm-bells in the ears of the developed countries, however, they could not sustain the pressure of economic development from the LDCs. This led to the fading of NIEO in the 1980s. It should be noted that the Nop-Aligned countries maintained unity in the initial phase of the Nans
Question 6. Describe the role played by India in keeping the Non-Aligned Movement alive and relevant. Answer: The Non-aligned Movement aimed at establishing a new and equitable international economic, social and political order. Non-aligned countries played a role in reducing Cold War conflicts and averting some serious crisis. For example, Jawaharlal Nehru, one of the key leaders of the NAM played a crucial role in mediating between the two Koreas thereby resolving the arousal of conflicts.
Furthermore, India adopted the policy of NAM/Instead of joining one of the superpower blocs, it acted as a mediator between two rival alliances. India did so for the cause of peace and stability. India raised the voice against the newly decolonized countries of becoming part of these alliances.
Some examples where India exercise the policy of NAM by taking an independent decision are as follows:
India led the world protest against Britain when Britain attacked Egypt over the Suez Canal issue in 1956 and
The bold decision of India refusing to sign the NPT (Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty) in 1968.
India also helps in taking measures for the economic development of the third world, non-aligned, newly decolonized countries to enable them to pursue independent policies. Thus, India played an active role in keeping the Non-aligned Movement alive and relevant.
Question 7. ‘Non-Aligned Movement has become irrelevant today’. Do you agree with the statement? Support your answer with any three suitable agreements. Answer: NAM which emerged as the alternative to the partisan politics of the first and second world was based on the idea of mutual understanding and mutual cooperation among member countries.
The main objective with which NAM was created was to safeguard the identity of the third world countries who were used as pawns by the superpowers in the power game which was the product of the Cold War and its cumulative effects.
The superpowers looked at NAM with disgust, but for the third world countries, it was an important platform protecting the integrity of the third world countries. NAM during the Cold War era softened the Cold War rivalries and contained the further worsening of the Cold War situation.
The role of NAM became more pronounced after the disintegration of the USSR in 1991-USA came out as the single superpower and thus, the world became unipolar. With the downfall of the socialist camp, the Cold War rivalry lessened.
No, I do not agree that the Non-Aligned movement has become irrelevant today. It has not become outdated. It is due to the following reasons:
Its members are still bound by the common history and common objectives like economic development of the least developed countries.
NAM members seek economic aid from the developed countries so that the undeveloped countries can use it into economic prosperity.
The members of NAM are anti-colonialist and anti-communist. Their main motives were to emphasis on the rights of nations and materialization of peace and security through participation in resolving international issues.
Question 8. Explain the Eastern and Western alliances during the Cold War period. Name any two European countries from amongst the following which was not members of these alliances France, Poland, Sweden, Spain, Austria, Romania Answer: The two superpowers i.e. the USA and the USSR were keen to expand their spheres of influence in different parts of the world. Hence, the world was sharply divided between the two alliance systems.
These were the Eastern Alliance and the Western alliance. The countries which were part of these two alliances were smaller states who got the promise of protection, weapons, and economic aid against their local rivals. Therefore, these alliance systems threatened to divide the entire world into two camps. Most countries of Western Europe sided with the US and those of Eastern Europe joined the Soviet camp.
Description of these two alliance is given below :
The Eastern alliance or the Warsaw Pact was led by the Soviet Union. It was created in 1955 and its principal function was to counter NATO’s forces in Europe.
The Western alliance was formed into an organization, the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). The alliance sided with the US. It came into existence in April 1949 and was an association of twelve states. It declared that armed attack on any one of them in Europe or North America would be regarded as an attack on all of them.
The two countries which were not members of these alliances were Sweden and Austria.
Question 9. Explain any six factors which helped the Soviet Union in becoming a superpower after the Second World War. Answer: The six factors which helped the Soviet Union in becoming a superpower after the Second World War era are :
East European countries came under the control of USSR.
Their political and economic systems were modeled after USSR.
USSR emerged as a leader of socialist bloc countries.
The Soviet Union has complex communication networking, vast energy resources-oil, iron, and steel machinery.
Production and improvement of the transport sector.
USSR’s domestic consumer industry produced everything from Pins to Cars.
Ensured a minimum standard of living for all citizens.
Government subsidized basic necessities including health, education, children and other welfare schemes.
No unemployment.
State ownership over land and productive assets.
Question 10. Study the political outline map of the world given below in which six different countries have been marked as (1), (2), (3), (4), (5) and (6). Identify these countries and name them. Also classify them as First World, Second World, and Third World countries. Write your answer in the Answer-Book as per the following format (Delhi 2011) Answer:
In This Post we are providing CHAPTER 2 THE END OF BIOPOLARITYNCERT MOST IMPORTANT QUESTIONS for Class 12 POLITICAL SCIENCE PART- A CONTEMPORARY WORLD POLITICS which will be beneficial for students. These solutions are updated according to 2021-22 syllabus. These MCQS can be really helpful in the preparation of Board exams and will provide you with a brief knowledge of the chapter.
NCERT MOST IMPORTANT QUESTIONSONTHE END OF BIOPOLARITY
Question 1. What was the Soviet System? Assess any four features of the Soviet System. Answer: In October 1917 first Socialist Revolution took place in Russia. Bolshevik Revolution took place under the leadership of Lenin. The rule of the Czar was overthrown and a new government headed by Lenin was established. A new constitution was framed in 1918, again in 1924, and again in 1936. The system of government in the U.S.S.R. is generally known as the Soviet System of government. The Soviet system of economy was a planned economy and was managed on the basis of state flaws for economic and social development. The system of government in the U.S.S.R. is generally known as the Soviet System government. Following were the main features of the Soviet System of government:
1. The Soviet System was based on Communist Principles. Lenin and Stalin adjusted the communist philosophy to the needs of the country. Marxist philosophy was the guiding principle behind the Soviet Constitution.
2. The ‘Soviet’ system formed the basis of the political and constitutional organization of the U.S.S.R. The word ‘Soviet’ means a council consisting of the elected deputies or delegates or workers.
3. In the very first Article of the Stalin Constitution (1936), “The Union of Soviet Republic was described as a socialist state of workers and peasants.”
4. U.S.S.R. was a one-party state. The Communist Party occupied a pivotal position in the socio-political system of the Soviet Union. The Communist Party was the supreme guiding energy in the state. The Communist Party was the architect and defender of the socialist system in the U.S.S.R. as well as the guide and teacher of the people. No other party was allowed in the U.S.S.R.
5. Soviet System was based on the principle of ‘Democratic Centralism’. To quote Vyshinsky, “The Soviet Union State is built on the principle of democratic centralism sharply opposed to the bureaucratic centralism of the capitalist state.” This principle meant that all bodies of administration were elected and organised on democratic principles. The principle also meant that the lower body was responding to the higher body and the decision of the higher bodies was binding on the lower bodies.
6. The citizens of the U.S.S.R. were given a number of fundamental rights along with duties. Rights were given to the citizens with a view to strengthening the socialist system. In other words, rights must be in conformity with the interests of the working people.
Question 2. Analyse any six factors which helped the Soviet Union in becoming a superpower after the Second World War. Answer: After the Second World War, the Soviet Union became a superpower and U.S.S.R. became a leader of the Socialist bloc. Following were the factors which helped the Soviet Union in becoming a superpower after the Second World War:
In U.S.S.R. the economy was planned and completely controlled by the state.
The Soviet Union had adequate natural resources.
It had modern means of transport and telecommunication.
Citizens of the Soviet Union enjoyed all basic needs for public life.
It had a powerful and large army.
It had nuclear weapons and the Soviet Union was a permanent member of U.N. Security Council.
Question 3. Mention any six reasons responsible for the disintegration of the Soviet Union. Answer: The following were the main reasons for the disintegration of the former Soviet Union:
1. The Soviet system allowed only the Communist Party to exist in U.S.S.R. The Communist Party was regarded as ‘The Vanguard of the working people in their struggle to strengthen and develop the socialist system.’ No other party was allowed to exist in the Soviet Union.
2. The Soviet system became bureaucratic and authoritarian. The foes of socialism were ruthlessly dealt with. There was the dictatorship of the Communist Party.
3. In the Soviet Union, stress was more on social and economic rights than on political rights. There was no freedom of speech and expression. Any opinion expressed against the ‘Party line’ was deemed to be a matter of treason and hence severe punishment was inflicted.
4. In the Soviet system, federalism was adopted but the Union Republic of U.S.S.R. was completely under the control of the Communist Party. The Soviet federal structure was like a pyramid where the Communist Party was the apex and controlled the primary organs of the party at the base.
5. The Soviet Union lagged behind the west in technology, infrastructure, etc.
6. The Soviet Union failed in fulfilling the political and economic aspirations of the citizens.
Question 4. Describe the role of Gorbachev j to reform the Soviet System and the j effects of these reforms on the U.S.S.R Answer: Mikhail Gorbachev became the General Secretary of the General Party of the U.S.S.R. in 1985. He introduced political and economic reforms. Following factors forced Gorbachev to initiate reforms in the U.S.S.R.
The Soviet Union lagged behind the west in technology, infrastructure, etc.
The Soviet System was authoritarian. There was rampant corruption in the administration and people were alienated from the government. Citizens were not happy with the political system.
Communist Party controlled the government and all institutions and was not responsible to the people. There was neither any opposition party nor any democratic values.
The Soviet Union failed in fulfilling the political and economic aspirations of the citizens.
The invasion of Afghanistan weakened the Soviet Union both economically and politically.
Gorbachev sought to reform this system. He introduced economic and political reform policies of Perestroika (restructuring) and glasnost (openness). These reforms were necessary to keep the Soviet Union abreast of information and technological revolutions.
Although power and privileges were declining, Gorbachev applied the policies into haste. As a result, it lost popular support. Due to this, the people of East European Countries started to protest against their own governments and Soviet control. This process was accompanied by a rapidly escalating crisis within the Soviet Union that has to end its disintegration.
As there was an internal struggle within the Soviet Union due to the rise of nationalism by the small states that were ethically diverse. It thus led to the disintegration of the Soviet Union and the collapse of the socialist system. The disintegration of the Soviet Union means the emergence of many newly independent countries All the 15 Union Republics of the U.S.S.R. has become independent states. Each country has its own political aspirations. Some of them, especially the Baltic and the East European States, joined the European Union and became members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO).
Question 5. Examine India’s changing: relationship with Post-Communist Russia. Answer: After the disintegration of the U.S.S.R. in December 1991, Russia emerged as the legal successor state of the former superpower in world politics. Russian President Yeltsin assured the Indian Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao that Russia’s relationship and co-operation with India would continue. In early 1992, India and Russia took the first firm step to rebuild economic relations. The decision to end Rupee trade and to switch over to hard currencies was taken. Russia also favoured strategic co-operation with India. Russia also decided to supply another three million tonnes of oil to India in 1993.
Visit of Russian President Boris Yeltsin. In the last week of January 1993, Russian President Boris Yeltsin visited India. President Yeltsin announced that Russia would support India in the United Nations’ Security Council on the Kashmir issue. India and Russia agreed to coordinate their activities and exchange information and experience to combat different manifestations of terrorism, organised crime and illegal arms trade. The signing of a new Treaty of Friendship and co-operation was designed to guide the path of Indo-Russian relations in the next 20 years.
P.M. Narasimha Rao’s visit to Russia. In June 1994, the then P.M. Narasimha Rao visited Russia. The visit produced two significant declarations and nine agreements. Both the countries denounced the efforts to weaken the unity of pluralisation of states through religious extremism.
Russian P.M.’s Visit to India. In December 1994 the Russian Prime Minister visited India and during his visit, India and Russia signed 8 agreements covering such vital areas as defence, technology and space exploration. Russia assured India that it has no desire to supply arms to Pakistan.
India, Russia Sign N-Pact. On 21st June 1998, in a far-reaching nuclear deal, India and Russia signed an accord for construction of two 1000 MW light-water nuclear power reactors at Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu.
In March 2000, Vladimir Putin was elected as the President of Russia. On April 15, 2000, President Putin ratified an extradition treaty with India aimed at curbing terrorism. A senior Russian atomic energy official called for recognition of India and Pakistan as nuclear-weapon states. On June 28, 2000, India and Russia decided to set up a commission on Military- Technical Co-operation to impart greater impetus to defence ties and accelerate decision-making. India agreed to buy $ 1 billion worth of Russian arms. On June 29, 2000, India and Russia signed a number of agreements on Indo-Russian defence co-operation.
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India. On 2nd October 2000, President Putin visited India. India and Russia forged a strategic partnership that proposes structured co-operation in the fields of nuclear sciences, defence, space and fights against international terrorism, separatism, religious extremism, organised crime and illegal drug trafficking. India and Russia signed 10 agreements to enhance their bilateral ties in various fields. On October 4, 2000, a new era dawned in the Indo- Russian defence ties with the two countries signing multi-billion dollar agreements for sale of armaments. They also decided to set up an Inter-governmental Commission on defence and technical co-operation.
Accord on Terrorism. Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee visited Moscow in November 2001. India and Russia signed the far-reaching Moscow Declaration on international terrorism declaring that the struggle against this scourge had become one of the priority tasks of the world community. The two sides reaffirmed the central role of the United Nations in the efforts of the international community in the struggle against terrorism.
Defence Agreement. On 20th January 2004, India and Russia signed the historic and their biggest ever defence deal of almost? 7,000 crore. The defence ministers said that the military and technical co-operation between India and Russia has reached a higher level.
Visit of Russian President (December 2004): Russian President Vladimir Putin visited India in Dec. 2004. India and Russia moved closer vowing to reconcile their positions on two contentious issues of Russian entry into the W.T.O. and New Delhi according to market economy status to Moscow. The two countries signed 10 agreements and Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen bilateral co-operation in banking, energy, space exploration, navigation and visa sectors. Russian President supported India’s candidature for a permanent seat in U.N. Security Council with Veto Power.
Visit of Indian Prime Minister to Moscow (December 2005). Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh visited Moscow on December 6, 2005. Moscow agreed to help India in acquiring the latest nuclear energy generation technology to meet the country’s growing power requirements. India and Russia identified three key areas—nuclear energy, defence and trade and industry—to give special attention to while transforming their buyer-seller relationship into one that aims at joint planning and manufacture of high technology arms and armaments.
Russian Doctrine gives Top Priority to ties with India. Russia’s new foreign policy concept displayed on the Russian President’s website on July 15, 2008, says: “In deepening the strategic partnership with India, Russia pursues the principled policy towards stronger interaction on burning international problems and all-round strengthening of mutually beneficial relations in all spheres especially in achieving a substantial uplift in commercial and economic ties.” In December 2008, Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev signed an agreement concerning Uranium.
Russia will help India in setting up four additional nuclear plants at Kudankulam, where two plants are already functioning with Russian help.
Visit of Indian Prime Minister to Moscow (December 2009). Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh visited Moscow in Dec. 2009. During his visit, both countries signed a Comprehensive Civil Nuclear Pact.
Visit of Russian President (December 2010). Russian President Dmitry Medvedev visited India on December 21, 2010. India and Russia demonstrated to the world why their relationship was so special. The two countries signed a record 29 deals, including one on joint designing and development of the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) and another for jointly undertaking projects in the oil and gas sector in India, Russia or a Third Country. The Russian President endorsed India’s candidature for a permanent UN Security Council seat and also promised to support India’s quest to become a member of the Nuclear Suppliers Group, MTCR and the Wassenaar Arrangement.
Visit of Russian President (December 2012). Russian President Vladimir Putin visited India in Dec. 2012. Setting aside their differences over civil nuclear co-operation, India and Russia signed two key defence deals worth about? 25,000 crore. The two countries also inked other agreements in fields, such as space, trade and investment, science and technology, education and culture, reinforcing the strong dynamos of their time tested friendship.
Visit of Indian Prime Minister to Russia (October 2013). On 21st October 2013, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh visited Russia. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Russian President Putin directed officials to resolve Kodaikalnal nuclear power plant issues. Both leaders observed that defence cooperation is a crucial element in the strategic partnership and decided to enhance cooperation in the field of rocket, missile, naval technologies and weapon systems.
The two leaders also discussed cooperation in the field of terrorism and looked at ways to enhance trade and investment among other subjects. The two leaders affirmed their commitment to the Agreement of Cooperation in the Use of Atomic Energy for peaceful purposes and the road map for the social construction of the Russian designed Nuclear Power Plants in India.
Visit of Russian President to India. In December 2014, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited India. During this visit, both countries signed 20 important agreements.
In Dec. 2015, Indian P.M. Sh. Narendra Modi visited Russia. During this visit, both countries signed 16 agreements.
In October 2016, Russian President to Vladimir Putin visited India. During this, both countries signed 16 agreement.
In June 2017 Indian Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi visited Russia. During this visit, both countries signed 5 important agreements.
In October 2018, Russian President visited India. During this visit, both countries signed 8 important agreements.
In September 2019, Indian Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi visited Russia. During this visit, both countries signed 15 agreements.
The friendly relations between India and Russia have achieved a new level of privileged strategic partnership.
Question 6. Highlight any three positive and three negative features each of the Soviet System in the Soviet Union. Answer: Positive Features:
The planned economy was adopted in U.S.S.R. The economy of the state was managed on the basis of state plans for the economy and social developments.
In the Soviet Union, all economic activities were controlled by the state. All industries were nationalised.
In the Soviet Union, there was no private economy all means of production and distribution were owned and controlled by the state.
Negative Features:
The Soviet system allowed only the Communist Party to exist in U.S.S.R. The Communist Party was regarded as ‘the Vanguard of the working people in their struggle to strengthen and develop the socialist system’. No other party was allowed to exist in the Soviet Union.
The Soviet system became very bureaucratic and authoritarian. The foes of socialism were ruthlessly dealt with. There was the dictatorship of the Communist Party.
In the Soviet Union, stress was more on social and economic rights than on political rights. There was no freedom of speech and expression. Any opinion expressed against the ‘Party line’ was deemed to be a matter of treason and hence punished with severity.
Question 7. Highlight any three major consequences of ‘Shock Therapy’ in the Post Communist Regimes. Answer: With the disintegration of the Soviet Union, there was a collapse of communism. After the collapse of communism, the process of change in these countries started from an authoritarian socialist system to a democratic capitalist system. The model of transition in Russia, Central Asia and East Europe that was influenced by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund came to be known as ‘Shock Therapy’. Though the ‘Shock Therapy’ differs in intensity and speed amongst former communist countries, its direction and features were quite common.
Consequences of Shock Therapy: Following are the consequences of Shock Therapy.
Each of these countries had to make a total change from a socialist economy to a capitalist economy.
Each of these countries had to adopt private ownership as a dominate pattern of ownership of property.
All these countries had to privatise of all state assets and establish corporate ownership patterns.
Collective farming was replaced by capitalist (private) farming.
Question 8. Look at the given cartoon and Answer: the following questions:
(a) The cartoon refers to which treaty?
Answer: Indo-Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation, 1971.
(b) How can we say that we were non-aligned even after signing this treaty with the Soviet Union? Answer: Even after signing the treaty of peace, friendship and cooperation, India remained a non-aligned country.
(c) Why was this treaty signed? Answer: Indo-Soviet friendship was signed to counteract the rival forces of India such as Pakistan.
Question 9. Give any three examples to show that most of the former Soviet Republic were prone to conflict and tension. Answer: The disintegration of the Soviet Union took place in 1991. There were 15 Union Republics (states) in the former U.S.S.R. Most of the former Soviet Republics were prone to conflicts and many Republics witnessed civil wars and insurgencies.
1. In Russia, Two Republics viz, Chechnya and Dagestan, witnessed violent secessionist movements. Moscow tried to suppress the movements. However, even indiscriminate military bombings failed to deter the aspirations for independence. 2. In Central Asia, Tajikistan witnessed a long- drawn Civil War that continued for a decade till 2001. 3. There were frequent conflicts in this region. Nagorno-Karabakh, in the province of Azerbaijan desire to secede and join Armenia. 4. The two provinces led to civil war in Georgia to attain independence. This hampered the life of the ordinary citizens creating hardships. 5. There were movements against the existing regimes in Ukraine, Kyrgyzstan and Georgia. Soviet Republics were fighting over issues such as river water, etc. 6. The Central Asian Republics are rich in hydrocarbon resources thus, this area has become economically demanding. As a result, it has become a bone of contention between the outside power, oil companies and the neighbouring countries.
Question 10. Read the passage given below carefully and Answer the following questions:
Each of these countries was required to make a total shift to a capitalist economy, which meant rooting out completely any structures evolved during this period. Above all, it meant that private ownership was to be the dominant pattern of ownership of property. Privatization of state assets and corporate ownership patterns were to be immediately brought in. Collective farms were to be replaced by private farming and capitalism in agriculture. This transition ruled out any alternate or third way’
(i) Name any two countries which were required to make a total shift. Answer: Russia, Kazakistan.
(ii) Why were the collective farms to be replaced by private farming? Answer: Collective farms to be replaced by private farming, because the disintegration of Soviet bloc, and therefore each country related to the Soviet bloc, was required to make a total shift to a capitalist economy.
(iii) Since the ‘third way’ had been ruled out, what were the only two ways of controlling the economy? Answer: State-controlled socialism and capitalism.