Answer Writing Practice Questions: 31st January 2015

Following 10 Questions pertain to GS Paper-1

1. “The early and mid 1900s bore witness to multiple reform movements in India.” Examine the reasons that could have given rise to such reform movements.»»
2. “Minority advocacy groups have also proved more successful than women’s rights groups in India and the world.” Do you agree with this view? Critically examine. »»
3. “When I say ‘capitalism,’ I mean a full, pure, uncontrolled, unregulated laissez-faire capitalism—with a separation of state and economics, in the same way and for the same reasons as the separation of state and church.” Do you agree with this interpretation of Capitalism? Must there be a strict separation between state and economics, much like the separation between church and state?»»
4. Though many countries have attempted to adopt a communist form of government, it has resulted in highly varying forms of government in different nations. Can you identify the reason for this? Also, elaborate on the policy of ‘Great Leap Forward’ that was called for by Mao Zedong.»»
5. Regionalism can be a destructive force to a nation’s unity. However, it may also act as a unifying force for persons in backward regions and minorities that are marginalised from mainstream society. Discuss in the context of India.»»
6. What do you know about the artisans/craftsmen from the Harappan Civilization? What materials were used by the artisans and what did they create with it?»»
7. The negative effects of globalization on Indian culture and society have been amply chronicled. Has globalization brought about any positive changes in the lives of women? Elucidate on the issue.»»
8. The years of 1952 and 1957 mark momentous occasions in India’s electoral history. However, 1957 was more crucial than 1951-52, and set the course of government that India was to follow. Do you agree? Justify your answer.»»
9. Some Indian performing art forms and others find mention in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Elucidate various art forms from India which find mention in this list.»»
10. There are many unsung heroes of the Indian freedom struggle. Gopaldas Desai was one such activist. Highlight the contributions of Gopaldas Desai, elaborating on why there are so many instances of unsung heroes in the historical narrative of the Indian freedom struggle.»»