GS Mains History 2013

1. Though not very useful from the point of view of a connected political history of South India, the Sangam literature portrays the social and economic conditions of its time with remarkable vividness. Comment. (200 words)

2. (a) Discuss the ‘Tandava’ dance as recorded in early Indian inscriptions. (100 words)

(b) Chola architecture represents a high watermark in the evolution of temple architecture. Discuss. (100 words)

3. Defying the barriers of age, gender and religion, the Indian women became the torch- bearer during the struggle for freedom in India. Discuss (200 words)

4. Several foreigners made India their homeland and participated in various movements. Analyze their role in the Indian struggle for freedom. (200 words)

5.  “In many ways, Lord Dalhousie was the founder of modern India.” Elaborate. (200 words)

6. Critically discuss the objectives of Bhoodan and Gramdan Movements initiated by Acharya Vinoba Bhave and their success. (200 words)

7. Write a critical note on the evolution and significance of the slogan, ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’. (200 words)

8. Discuss the contributions of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad to pre- and post- independent India (200 words)

9. Analyze the circumstances that led to the Tashkent Agreement in 1966. Discuss the highlights of the Agreement. (200 words)

10. Critically examine the compulsions which prompted India to play a decisive role in the emergence of Bangladesh. (200 words)

11. “‘Latecomer’ Industrial Revolution in Japan involved certain factors that were markedly different from what West had experienced.” Analyze. (200 words)

12. ‘’Africa was chopped into States artificially created by accidents of European competition.” Analyze. (200 words)

13. ‘’American Revolution was an economic revolt against mercantilism.” Substantiate. (200 words)

14. What policy instruments were deployed to contain the Great Economic Depression? (200 words)