BREAK UP OF QUESTIONS

SUBJECT A. Indian History

No. of Questions
UNIT Topic
Given
Salient features of Indus Valley Civilization and Vedic age 12
Emergence of Buddhism and Jainism 19
1. Mauryan Empire: Their administration, Socio-Economic and Religious Conditions, Art
Ancient 10
and Architecture, Literature
History Gupta Empire: Their administration, Socio-Economic and Religious Conditions, Art and
14
Architecture, Literature
Harshavardhana and his Achievements 8
Total 63
The Chola Administrative System 9
Delhi Sultanate: Their Administration, Socio-Economic and Religious Conditions,
10
Art and Architecture, Language and Literature
2. The Mughal Empire: Their Administration, Socio-Economic and Religious Conditions,
Medival 15
Art and Architecture, Language and Literature
History
Bhakti and Sufi Movements 10
Shivaji and the rise of Maratha Empire -
Advent of Europeans -
Total 44
1857 Revolt and its Impact -
Rise and Consolidation of British Power in India - Changes in Administration, Social and
9
3. Cultural Spheres
Modern Social and Religious Reform Movements in the 19th and 20th Century 9
History Indian National Movement: it's various stages and important contributors and
16
contributions from different parts of the country
Post Independence Consolidation and Reorganization within the country 9
Total 43
GRAND TOTAL 150

Format of questions
S. No. Format Number of Questions
1. Direct Questions 71
2. Two Statement Based Questions 15
3. Three Statement Based Questions 29
4. Four Statement Based Questions 21
5. Matching/Pair Based Questions 9
6. Assertion and Reason Based Questions 2
7. Match the List Based Questions 3
Total Number of Questions 150

AMIGOS IAS 1
 APPSC – GROUP-II, Prelims (05-02-2024)
1. Consider the following statements:
1. The Mauryan rulers commissioned a large
number of architectural works for only
political reasons
2. The palace of Chandragupta Maurya was
inspired by the Achaemenid palace
Which of the statements given above is/are
incorrect ?
1. 1 only 2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: 1
Explanation:
 The Mauryan rulers commissioned a large
number of architectural works for political
as well as religious reasons (Ashokan
pillars and dhamma ideology of Ashoka).
Hence, statement 1 is Incorrect. These
works are referred to as Court Art.
Palaces:
1. The Mauryan Empire was the first
powerful empire to come to power in
India
2. The capital at Pataliputra and the palaces
at Kumrahar were created to reflect the
splendour of the Mauryan Empire.
a. The palace of Chandragupta Maurya was
inspired by the Achaemenid palaces at
Persepolis in Iran. Hence, statement 2 is
correct.
b. Wood was the principal building material.
c. Megasthenes described the palace as one
of the greatest creations of mankind
3. Similarly, Ashoka's Palace at Kumrahar
was a massive structure.
a. It had a high central pillar and was a
three-storey wooden structure.
b. The palace walls were decorated with
carvings and sculptures
2. Consider the following statements about the
Ashokan Pillars :
1. Ashoka used them as a symbol of State
power
2. The Shaft of it was made up of a single
piece of stone
AMIGOS IAS
3. On the abacus of it the animal figure was
placed.
4. The national emblem of India was taken
from the Sarnath Pillar
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. Only three 4. All four
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Pillars
1. During the reign of Ashoka, the inscription
on pillars - as a symbol of the State or to
commemorate battle victories - assumed
great significance. Hence, statement 1 is
correct
2. He also used pillars to propagate imperial
sermons as well.
3. On an average of 40 ft. height, the pillars
were usually made of chunar sandstone
and composed of Shaft and Capital.
4. A long Shaft formed the base and was
made up of a single piece of stone or
monolith. Hence, statement 2 is correct
5. On top of it lay the capital, which was
either lotus shaped or bell shaped.
6. The bell shaped capitals were influenced
by the Iranian pillars, as was the highly
polished and lustrous finish of the pillars.
7. Above it, there was a circular or
rectangular base known as the abacus on
which an animal figure was placed. Hence,
statement 3 is correct
National Emblem
1. The abacus and the animal part of the
Sarnath pillar forms the official national
emblem of India.
a. In the abacus of the Sarnath pillar, four
animals are shown representing four
directions - a galloping horse (west), an
elephant (east), a bull (south) and a lion
(north).
b. The animals seem to follow each other
turning the wheel of existence till eternity.
2
 c. Hence, statement 4 is correct a. Eight of them had the relics of Buddha at
2. The Elephant depicts the dream of Queen their medhi while the ninth had the pot in
Maya, where a white elephant enters her which the relics were originally kept.
womb. 6. The core of the stupa was made of
3. The Bull depicts the zodiac sign of Taurus, unburnt brick while the outer surface was
the month in which Buddha was born. made by using burnt bricks, which were
4. The Horse represents the horse Kanthaka, then covered with a thick layer of plaster.
which Buddha is said to have used for Hence, statements 2 and 3 are incorrect.
going away from princely life. 7. The medhi and the toran were decorated
5. The Lion shows the attainment of by wooden sculptures.
enlightenment. 8. Devotees walk around the pradakshina
6. In the National Emblem of India, the patha or open ambulatory passageway as
words Satyameva Jayate from Mundaka a token of worship.
Upanishad, meaning "Truth Alone 9. Examples:
Triumphs', are inscribed below the abacus a. Sanchi Stupa in Madhya Pradesh is the
in Devanagari script. most famous of the Ashokan stupas.
7. The Capital is crowned by the Wheel of the b. Piprahwa stupa in Uttar Pradesh is the
Law (Dharma Chakra). oldest one.
8. The four Lions symbolise Buddha 10. The location of the nine stupas built after
spreading Dhamma in all directions. the death of Buddha are
9. It was built in the commemoration of first a. Rajagriha
sermon by Buddha known as b. Vaishali
Dharmachakrapravartana c. Kapilavastu
Hence, all the statements are correct. d. Allakappa
3. Consider the following about Stupas: e. Ramagrama
1. They were burial mounds prevalent from f. Vethapida
the Vedic period g. Pava
2. The core of it was made of burnt bricks h. Kushinagar
3. The outer surface of it was made of i. Pippalivana.
unburnt bricks
4. Which among the following stupas is the
Which of the statements given above are oldest one ?
correct ?
1. Piprahwa stupa 2. Sanchi Stupa
1. 1 only 2. 2 and 3
3. Rajagriha Stupa 4. Pippalivana Stupa
3. 1 and 3 4. 1 and 2
Answer: 1
Answer: 1
Explanation :
Explanation:
Refer the explanation of Q 3
1. Stupas were burial mounds prevalent in
5. Which of the following art forms does not
India from the Vedic period. Hence,
come under the Court Art of the Mauryan
statement 1 is correct.
Age?
2. It is a conventional representation of a
1. Cave Architecture 2. Pottery
funeral cumulus in which relics and ashes
3. Stupas 4. Sculpture
of the dead were kept.
Select the correct answer using the codes
3. During the period of Ashoka, the art of
given below:
stupas reached its climax. Almost 84,000
stupas were erected during his period. 1. 1, 2 and 3 2. 2, 3 and 4
4. Although a Vedic tradition, stupas were 3. 1,2 and 4 4. All of the above
popularised by the Buddhists. Answer: 3
5. After the death of Buddha, nine stupas Explanation:
were erected.

AMIGOS IAS 2
 Popular Art
Apart from the royal patronage, cave-
architecture, sculpture and pottery took the
expressions of art by individual effort. These
were grouped together as popular forms of art
and architecture. Hence, the statements 1,2
and 4 are correct.
Cave Architecture
1. This period saw the emergence of rock-cut
cave architecture.
2. During the Mauryan period, these caves
were generally used as viharas, i.e. living
quarters, by the Jain and Buddhist monks.
3. While the early caves were used by the
ajivika sect, later, they became popular as
Buddhist monasteries.
4. The caves during the Mauryan period
were marked by a highly polished finish of
the interior walls and decorative
gateways.
5. Example: Barabar and Nagarjuni caves in
Bihar were formed during the time of
Ashoka and his grandson Dasharatha and
dates back to 3rd century BC
Sculptures:
Refer the explanation of Q 7
Pottery:
Refer the explanation of Q 8
6. Consider the following statements about
Nasik Caves:
1. It is a group of 24 caves belonging to the
religion of Buddhism
2. It has the influence of both Hinayana and
Mahayana sect
3. Under the influence of the Mahayana sect,
Buddha's presence is indicated through
the use of motifs and symbols
4. Under the influence of the Hinayana sect,
the idols of Buddha were carved.
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. 1 and 2 2. 2,3 and 4
3. 3 and 4 4. All of the above
Answer: 1
Explanation:
Nasik Caves
1. It is a group of 24 Buddhist caves, also
known as "Panday Leni".
AMIGOS IAS
2. They were carved between 1st century BC
and 3rd century AD and belong to the
Hinayana period.
3. However, later, the influence of the
Mahayana sect can also be found in these
caves. Hence, statements 1 and 2 are
correct.
4. Under the Hinayana sect, Buddha's
presence is indicated through the use of
motifs and symbols like throne and
footprints.
5. And later, the idols of Buddha were also
carved inside these caves representing the
influence of Mahayana Buddhism.
6. The site also depicts an excellent system
of water management indicated through
the presence of water tanks carved out of
solid rocks. Hence, statements 3 and 4 are
incorrect.
7. The earliest textual reference of yakshi can
be found in
1. Silappadikaram 2. Ramayana
3. Mahabharata 4. Manimekalai
Answer: 1
Explanation:
1. Sculptures were used primarily for the
decoration of stupas, in the torana and
medhi and as the form of religious
expression.
2. Two of the famous sculptures of the
Mauryan period are those of Yaksha and
Yakshi.
3. They were objects of worship related to all
three religions - Jainism, Hinduism and
Buddhism.
4. The earliest mention of yakshi can be
found in Silappadikaram, a Tamil text.
5. Similarly, all of the Jain Tirthankars were
associated with a yakshi.
8. Which of the following is the characteristic
pottery of the Mauryan Age?
1. Black and Red ware
2. Painted Grey Ware
3. Northern Black Polished Ware
4. Ochre Coloured Pottery
Answer: 3
Explanation:
3
 Pottery:
 Pottery of the Mauryan period is generally
referred to as Northern Black Polished
Ware (NBPW). They were characterised by
the black paint and highly lustrous finish
and were generally used as luxury items.
They have often been referred to as the
highest level of pottery.
9. Consider the following statements about
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves :
1. They were made under the Nanda King
Mahapadma Nanda
2. They were carved out for the residence of
Jain monks.
3. The Udayagiri caves are famous for the
Hathigumpha inscription
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. All three 4. None of the above
Answer: 2
Explanation:
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Odisha
1. They were made under the Kalinga King
Kharavela in 1st-2nd century BC near
modern-day Bhubaneswar. Hence,
statement 1 is in correct.
2. The cave complex has both artificial and
natural caves.
3. They were possibly carved out as
residence of Jain monks.
4. There are 18 caves in Udayagiri and 15 in
Khandagiri.
5. Udayagiri caves are famous for the
Hathigumpha inscription which is carved
out in Brahmi script.
a. The inscription starts out with "Jain
Namokar Mantra" and highlights various
military campaigns undertaken by the
King Kharavela.
6. Ranigumpha cave in Udayagiri is double-
storied and has some beautiful sculptures.
Hence, statements 2 and 3 are correct.
11.
10. Consider the following statements about
Gandhara School of Sculpture:
1. It was patronised by the Kushana rulers
2. It developed in the Kandahar region
3. Buddha is shown in a spiritual state
AMIGOS IAS
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. All three 4. None of the above
Answer: 3
Explanation:
Sculpture
 Three prominent schools of sculpture
developed in this period at three different
regions of India-centred at Gandhara,
Mathura and Amaravati.
1. Gandhara School
a. The Gandhara School of Art developed in
the western frontiers of Punjab, near
modern day Peshawar and Afghanistan.
b. The Greek invaders brought with them the
traditions of the Greek and Roman
sculptors, which influenced the local
traditions of the region.
c. Thus, Gandhara School also came to be
known as Greco-Indian School of Art.
2. The Gandhara School flourished in two
stages in the period from 50 BC to 500 AD.
a. While the former school was known for its
use of bluish-grey sandstone, the later
school used mud and stucco for making
the sculptures. ‘
b. The images of Buddha and Bodhisattvas
were based on the Greco-Roman
pantheon and resembled that of Apollo.
Features of Buddha Sculpture
1. The Buddha is shown in a spiritual state,
with wavy hair.
2. He wears fewer ornaments and sits in a
yogi position.
3. The eyes are half-closed as in meditation.
4. A protuberance is shown on the head
signifying the omniscience of Buddha.
 It was Patronised by Kushana rulers.
 It Developed in the North West Frontier,
in the modern day area of Kandahar.
Hence, all the statements are correct.
Match List-I(Era) with List II(Started In) and
select the correct answer using the codes
given below the lists:
List I List II
1. Ilahi Samvat A. 57 BC
2. Vikram Samvat B. 319 AD
4
 3. Gupta Samvat C. 606 AD ○ Marks hijrat (migration) from Mecca to
4. Harsha Samvat D. 1584 AD Medina
10. Laxman Samvata
Codes: ○ AD 1119
1. 1-C, 2-B, 3-A, 4-D 2. 1-B, 2-C, 3-D, 4-A ○ Founded by Laxman Sena of Bengal.
3. 1-A, 2-D, 3-C, 4-B 4. 1-D, 2-A, 3-B, 4-C 11. Ilahi Samvat,1584
Answer: 4 ○ A solar calendar, founded by Akbar, to
Explanation: replace lunar Hijri Samvat.
Different Indian Eras:- 12. Which of the following Eras is used as our
1. Buddha Samvata,544 BC national calendar ?
○ Used in ceylon, reckoned with the 1. Saka Era 2. Gupta Era
mahaparinirvana of Buddha 3. Vikram Era 4. Ilahi Era
2. Mahaivra Samvat, 528 BC Answer: 1
○ Used by Jains Explanation:
3. Vikram Samvat Saka Samvata
○ Started in 57 BC ○ AD 78
○ Traditionally, it was founded by a king ○ Traditionally, it was founded by a Saka
called Vikramaditya, who drove the sakas king who occupied Ujayini 135 years after
out of Ujjayini and founded the era to Vikramaditya.
celebrate his victory. ○ This era may in fact have been founded by
4. Saka Samvata Kushana ruler Kanishka.
○ AD 78 ○ This is our national calendar
○ Traditionally, it was founded by a Saka 13. Consider the following statements about
king who occupied Ujayini 135 years after Mathura School :
Vikramaditya. 1. It has no influence of any external cultures
○ This era may in fact have been founded by 2. The sculptures were made using red
Kushana ruler Kanishka. sandstone
○ This is our national calendar 3. It was influenced by only buddhism and
5. Gupta Hinduism
○ 319 AD Which of the statements given above are
○ Founded by Gupta ruler Chandragupta I. correct ?
6. Valabhi Samvat 1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
○ AD 319 3. 2 and 3 4. All of the above
○ This era has been mentioned by Alberuni Answer: 1
○ It was used in Gujarat and was co- Explanation:
terminus with Gupta era Mathura School
7. Kalchuri Chedi 1. The Mathura School flourished on the
○ AD 248 banks of the river Yamuna in the period
between 1st and 3rd centuries AD.
○ Founded by Abhira ruler Isvarasena.
2. It was developed indigenously and has no
8. Harsha Samvat
influence of any external cultures. Hence,
○ AD 606
statement 1 is correct.
○ Founded by Harshavardhana of
3. The sculptures of the Mathura School
Kanyakubja
were influenced by the stories and images
9. Hijri Samvat of all three religions of the time:
○ AD 622 Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism. Hence,
○ Founded by Prophet Muhammad. statement 3 is incorrect.

AMIGOS IAS 5
 4. The images were modelled on the earlier 2. The body symbolises muscularity, wearing
yaksha images found during the Mauryan tight dresses.
period. 3. The face and head are shaven.
5. The Mathura School showed a striking use 4. Buddha is seated in padmasana with
of symbolism in the images. different mudras and his face reflects
6. The sculptures were made using spotted grace.
red sandstone. Hence, statement 2 is 5. A similar protuberance is shown on the
correct. head.
7. The Hindu Gods were represented using 16. Consider the following statements about
their avayudhas. Ellora caves:
a. For example, Shiva is shown through linga 1. They are older as compared to the Ajanta
and mukhalinga. caves
b. Similarly, the halo around the head of 2. They reflect a diversity in terms of theme
Buddha is larger than in Gandhara School and architectural styles as compared to
and decorated with geometrical patterns. Ajanta caves
c. Buddha is shown to be surrounded by two Which of the statements given above is/are
Bodhisattva - Padmapani holding a lotus correct ?
and Vajrapani holding a thunderbolt. 1. 1 only 2. 2 only
14. Which of the following schools of Sculpture 3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2
put more emphasis on the use of narrative Answer: 2
art?
Explanation:
1. Gandhara School 2. Mathura School
Ellora Caves:
3. Amaravati School 4. Both 2 and 3
1. Ellora caves are another important site of
Answer: 3 cave architecture.
Explanation: 2. It is located nearly 100 Kms away from
Amaravati School Ajanta caves.
1. In the Southern parts of India, the 3. It is a group of 34 caves - 17 Brahmanical,
Amaravati School developed on the banks 12 Buddhist and 5 Jain.
of Krishna river, under the patronage of 4. These caves were developed during the
the Satavahana rulers. period between 5th and 11th centuries AD
2. While the other two schools focused on (newer as compared to Ajanta Caves) by
single images, Amaravati School put more various guilds from Vidarbha, Karnataka
emphasis on the use of dynamic images or and Tamil Nadu. Hence, statement 1 is
narrative art. incorrect.
3. The sculptures of this school made 5. Hence, the caves reflect a natural diversity
excessive use of the Tribhanga posture, in terms of theme and architectural styles.
i.e. the body with three bends. a. Caves 1-12: Buddhist
15. In which of the following schools of Sculpture b. Caves 13-29: Hindu
is Buddha shown in a delighted mood with a
c. Caves 30-34: Jain (Digambara sect)
smiling face ?
Hence, statement 2 is correct.
1. Gandhara School
6. The Hindu and Buddhist Caves were
2. Mathura School
predominantly constructed by
3. Amaravati School Rashtrakuta dynasty and Jain Caves by
4. None of the above Yadava dynasty
Answer: 2 Ajanta Caves:
Explanation: 1. The paintings are generally themed
Mathura School around Buddhism - the life of Buddha and
1. Buddha is shown in a delighted mood with Jataka stories.
a smiling face.

AMIGOS IAS 6
 2. Of the 29 caves, five were developed 3. Jahangir
during the Hinayana phase while the 4. Kaurwaki
remaining 24 were developed during the Select the correct answer using the code given
Mahayana phase of Buddhism. below:
3. References of the Ajanta caves can be 1. 2 only 2. 1 and 2
found in the travel accounts of Chinese 3. 1,2 and 3 4. 1,2,3 and 4
Buddhist travellers Fa Hien and Hiuen
Answer: 4
Tsang.
Explanation:
4. Some prominent sculptures of Ajanta
Prayag-Prashasti:
Caves are:
1. Prayag-Prashasti is the name given to the
a. Mahaparinirvana of Buddha in Cave No.
Allahabad Pillar.
26
a. Prayag means a meeting place for
b. Naga King and his consort in Cave No. 19
something or someone.
17. The Kailasha Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva
b. Prayag is an ancient name of Allahabad as
developed under the patronage of
it is the meeting place or 'Sangam of rivers
Rashtrakuta king Krishna I is located in
Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical
1. Ellora Caves 2. Ajanta Caves
Saraswati.
3. Junagadh Caves 4. Bagh Caves
c. Prashasti means "in praise of someone"
Answer: 1 and is a eulogy.
Explanation: 2. The Allahabad Prasasti was originally
Some of the prominent caves in Ellora are: engraved on the Ashokan Pillar in
1. Cave No. 10 is a Buddhist Chaitya cave Kaushambi near Allahabad.
known as Visvakarma Cave or Carpenter's a. Later it was removed to the Allahabad
Cave. Buddha is seated in Dharmachakra fort.
Mudra here with the Bodhi tree carved at 3. It is an Ashokan Stambh but has four
his back. different inscriptions i.e.
2. Cave No. 14 is themed "Ravan ki Khai". a. The usual Ashokan inscriptions in Brahmi
3. Cave No. 15 is Dashavatar Temple. script as in all pillars.
4. Cave No. 16 is Kailasha Temple dedicated b. The Queen's edict regarding the charitable
to Lord Shiva. deeds of Ashoka's wife Kaurwaki.
a. It was developed under the patronage of c. Samudragupta's (335-375 AD) inscriptions
Rashtrakuta king Krishna I and was carved written by Harisena in Sanskrit language
out of a monolith, and even has a and Brahmi script. It mentions the
courtyard. conquests of Samudragupta and
b. In Cave No. 16, there is also a sculpture on boundaries of the Gupta Empire.
the wall of Kailasa temple depicting d. Jahangir's inscriptions in Persian.
Ravana shaking Mount Kailash. Hence, all the statements are correct.
c. It is considered one of the masterpieces of 19. Which of the following inscriptions is notable
Indian sculpture. for the rust-resistant composition of the
5. Dhumar Lena Cave No. 29 metals used in its construction ?
6. Rameshwar Lena Cave No. 21 1. Mehrauli Inscription
7. Two famous Jain caves are Indra Sabha 2. Sohgaura Inscription
(Cave No. 32) and Jagannath Sabha (Cave 3. Aihole Inscription
No. 33).
4. Allahabad Inscription
18. The Edicts issued by which of the following
Answer: 1
Kings/Queens are contained on the
Explanation:
Allahabad Pillar inscription ?
1. Ashoka
2. Samudra Gupta

AMIGOS IAS 7
 Mehrauli Inscription: 1. Located in present Pakistan, they record
1. The Mehrauli Iron Pillar is located in Delhi 14 edicts of King Ashoka and were written
in the Qutub Minar complex. in Kharosthi script.
2. It is notable for the rust-resistant 21. Which of the following was the first edict of
composition of the metals used in its Emperor Ashoka that contained the name
construction. Ashoka in it instead of ‘Devanampiya
3. This pillar was established by Piyadassi’ ?
Chandragupta-Il of Gupta dynasty as 1. Maski rock edict
Vishnupada in the honour of Lord Vishnu. 2. Mansehra rock edict
4. This pillar credits Chandragupta with 3. Kalinga rock edict
conquest of the Vanga Countries by his 4. Rummindei rock edict
battling alone against the confederacy of Answer: 1
the enemies united against him. Explanation:
5. It also credits him for conquest of Bahlikas Maski Inscription:
in a fight that ran across seven mouths of
1. Maski is a village and an archaeological
the Indus River.
site in Raichur district of Karnataka.
20. Which of the following sites of Ashokan
2. It lies on the bank of the Maski river which
inscriptions in North India is unique where
is a tributary of the Tungabhadra.
the great Mauryan emperor has Inscribed the
3. The site has a minor rock edict of Emperor
set of the 14 rock edicts ?
Ashoka.
1. Shahbazgarhi 2. Maski
4. It was the first edict of Emperor Ashoka
3. Kalsi 4. Kanganahalli
that contained the name Ashoka in it
Answer: 3 instead of 'Devanampriya' or 'Piyadassi.
Explanation: 5. The inscription remains a dharma
Kalsi Inscription: shasana, and tells people to follow the
1. Kalsi town is known for its heritage tenets of Buddhism.
importance. 6. Moreover the inscription also suggests the
2. It is a small town located in between spread of Mauryan rule up to the Krishna
Chakrata and Dehradun on the banks of Valley of North-eastern Karnataka
Yamuna river. 22. Match List-I(Pottery) with List II(Associated
3. The site of Ashoka's inscriptions at Kalsi is Phase) and select the correct answer using
singularly unique as it is the only place in the codes given below the lists:
North India where the great Mauryan List I List II
emperor has Inscribed the set of the 14 1. Ochre Coloured A. Later Vedic
rock edicts. Pottery period
4. The language of these edicts is Prakrit and 2. Black and Red B. Post-Mauryan
the script is Brahmi. The Rock edict is Ware period
made of quartz which is 8 ft broad and 10
3. Red Slipped Ware C. Chalcolithic
ft long.
period
5. These rock edicts reflect Asoka's human
4. Painted Grey Ware D. Post-Harappan
approach in his internal administration
when he converted himself to Buddhism. period
6. It also reflects the policies for the Codes:
commitment to non-violence and 1. 1-A, 2-B, 3-D, 4-C 2. 1-B, 2-A, 3-C, 4-D
restriction of war. 3. 1-D, 2-C, 3-A, 4-B 4. 1-C, 2-D, 3-B, 4-A
7. The inscription also tells about his life Answer: 4
when he took the path of spirituality. Explanation:
Note: Phases Based on Pottery:
Shahbazgarhi and Mansehra Rock Edicts: 1. OCP (Ochre Coloured Pottery) phase:

AMIGOS IAS 8
 a. 2000-1800 BC-Chalcolithic period
2. BRW (Black and Red Ware) phase:
a. Post-Harappan period
3. PGW (Painted Grey Ware) phase:
a. 800-400 BC-Later Vedic period
4. NBPW (Northern Black Polished Ware)
phase:
a. 500-100 BC-Pre-Mauryan and Mauryan
period
5. RSW (Red Slipped Ware) phase:
a. 200 BC-300 AD-Post-Mauryan period
23. In which of the following inscriptions a
portrait slab of King Ashoka and his queen is
found ?
1. Maski Inscription
2. Mansehra rock edict
3. Dhauli rock edict
4. Kanaganahalli Inscription
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Kanaganahalli Inscriptions:
1. Located in Gulbarga district of Karnataka,
this site contains a Mahastupa of 75 ft
diameter along with various sculptural
slabs.
2. A prominent one being the portrait slab of
King Ashoka and his queen attended by
two chauri bearers.
3. To confirm that it is Ashoka, the sculptural
slab also contains a single line label Rayo
Ashoka in Brahmi script of the Satavahana
period.
24. Which of the following are the features of
Nagara style of Architecture ?
1. Panchayatana style of temple making
2. Presence of assembly halls
3. Presence of water tanks within the
temple
Select the correct answer using the codes
given below:
1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3
Answer: 1
Explanation:
Nagara School of Architecture
 From the 5th century AD onwards, a
distinct style of temple architecture
developed in the Northern part of India,
AMIGOS IAS
known as the Nagara Style of Architecture.
Even in the Nagara school, different sub-
schools emerged in western, central and
eastern parts of the country.
Some of the features of Nagara style are:
1. The temples generally followed the
Panchayatana style of temple making,
which consisted of subsidiary shrines laid
out in a crucified ground plan with respect
to the principal shrine. Hence, statement
1 is correct.
2. Presence of assembly halls or mandaps in
front of the principal shrine. Hence,
statement 2 is correct.
3. Outside the garbhagriha, images of the
river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna were
placed.
4. Generally, there were no water tanks or
reservoirs present in the temple premises.
Hence, statement 3 is incorrect.
5. The temples were generally built on raised
platforms.
6. The porticos had a pillared approach.
25. Which of the following regional styles come
under the Nagara style of Architecture ?
1. Odisha school
2. Khajuraho school
3. Solanki school
Select the correct answer using the codes
given below :
1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3
Answer: 4
Explanation
 From the 5th century AD onwards, a
distinct style of temple architecture
developed in the Northern part of India,
known as the Nagara Style of Architecture.
Even in the Nagara school, different sub-
schools emerged in western, central and
eastern parts of the country such as
1. Odisha school
2. Khajuraho school
3. Solanki school
Hence, all the statements are correct.
26. Consider the following statements about the
Solanki school of temple architecture:
1. It developed in the North-Western parts
of India
9
 2. A unique feature of this school is the
presence of a step-tank
3. Modhera Sun Temple is an example of it
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Solanki School: (also known as Maru-Gurjara
style)
1. In the North-Western parts of India
including Gujarat and Rajasthan, this
school developed under the patronage of
Solanki rulers.
2. The features of this school included:
a. The temple walls were devoid of any
carvings.
b. The garbhagriha was connected with the
mandapa both internally as well as
externally
c. The porticos had decorative arched
gateways known as torans.
3. A unique feature of this school is the
presence of a step-tank, known as surya-
kund in the proximity of the temple.
4. The steps of the tank are full of small
temples with wooden carvings present in
them.
5. The Solankis used a variety of material to
make temples including sandstone, black
basalt and soft-marble.
6. Most of the temples are east-facing and
designed such that every year during the
equinoxes, the sun-rays fall directly into
the central shrine.
a. Example: Modhera Sun Temple, Gujarat
(built in 1026-27 by Bhima-I)
Hence, all the statements are correct.
27. Consider the following statements about
temple architecture in South India:
1. Under Mahendravarman, rock-cut
temples were built
2. Under Narasimhavarman, the mandapas
were divided into separate rathas
3. Under Rajasimha, the real structural
temples started
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
AMIGOS IAS
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. All three 4. None of the above
Answer: 3
Explanation:
 Temple architecture in South India began
under the Pallava ruler Mahendravarman.
The temples developed during the Pallava
dynasty reflected the stylistic taste of the
individual rulers and can be classified into
four stages chronologically:
1. Mahendra Group:
a. This was the first stage of Pallava temple
architecture.
b. The temples built under
Mahendravarman were basically rock-cut
temples.
c. Under him, the temples were known as
mandapas, unlike the Nagara style in
which the mandapas meant only the
assembly hall.
2. Narasimha Group:
a. This represented the second stage of the
development of temple architecture in
South India.
b. The rock-cut temples were decorated with
intricate sculptures.
c. Under Narasimhavarman, the mandapas
were now divided into separate rathas.
d. The biggest one was called the
Dharmaraja ratha while the smallest one
was called the Draupadi ratha.
e. The design of a temple in the Dravidian
style of architecture is a successor of the
Dharmaraja ratha.
3. Rajasimha Group:
a. Rajasimha led the third stage of temple
development.
b. Under him, development of real structural
temples started in place of rock-cut
temples.
c. Examples: Shore Temple at
Mahabalipuram, Kailashnath Temple at
Kanchipuram
4. Nandivarman Group:
a. This was the fourth stage of temple
development during the Pallava period.
b. The temples built were smaller in size.
c. The features were almost similar to the
Dravidian style of temple architecture.
10
 Hence, all the statements are correct.
28. Consider the following events/Personalities:
1. Arjuna’s penance
2. Descent of the Ganges
3. Lord Shiva
Which of the above are depicted in the
temples of Mahabalipuram ?
1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Arjuna's Penance or Descent of the Ganga-Its
Interpretation:
1. This 7th century AD masterpiece of
sculpture carved by Maandhaatar is 25
metres in length and 12 metres in height
and is regarded as the world's largest Bas
Relief.
2. Here Arjuna is seen as doing penance for
obtaining the powerful Pasupata Astra
(this powerful weapon in the possession
of Siva is supposed to generate a
continuous stream of arrows once fired)
from Lord Siva for the ensuing war with his
cousins, the Kauravas.
3. Siva is shown with his trident, axe and the
cobra twirled around his neck. His
foremost left hand is in the position of
granting a boon to his devotee. Above him
is Chandra, the moon god and below him
and on his sides are the dwarves.
4. Open Air Rock Reliefs
a. It includes Descent of the Ganges.
b. It narrates the story of descent of River
Ganga on earth from heaven by the efforts
of Bhagiratha.
c. In close proximity lies a big rock boulder,
known as Krishna's Butter Ball
Hence, all the statements are correct.
29. Which of the following temples are found in
the ancient port city of Mamallapuram ?
1. Dharmaraja Ratha
2. Mahishasuramardini Mandapa
3. Varaha Cave Temple
4. Pancha Pandava Cave Temple
Select the correct answer using the codes
given below:
1. 1,2 and 3 2. 2,3 and 4
3. 1,3 and 4 4. 1,2,3 and 4
AMIGOS IAS
Answer: 4
Explanation:
ARCHITECTURE AND SCULPTURE AT
MAHABALIPURAM
 The ancient port city of Mamallapuram
under Pallava dynasty in Tamil Nadu,
flourished with a number of marvellous
architecture. This 7th century Pallava site
was declared as UNESCO World Heritage
Site in 1984 by the name "Group of
Monuments at Mahabalipuram"
They include:
1. Ratha Temples or Pancha Ratha:
a. Also known as Pandava Rathas, they are
the earliest rock cut temples in India,
comprising Dharmaraja Ratha, Bhima
Ratha, Arjuna Ratha, Nakula and Sahadeva
Ratha, and Draupadi Ratha dated around
7th century AD.
b. Dharmaraja Ratha is the largest structure
among the five.
2. Rock-cut Caves:
a. include Varaha Cave Temple, Krishna
Cave Temple, Panchapandava Cave
Temple, and the Mahishasuramardini
Mandapa (Bas-relief of Goddess Durga
killing Mahishasura).
3. Open Air Rock Reliefs:
a. include Descent of the Ganges also known
as w Arjuna's Penance or Bhagiratha's
Penance carved on two huge boulders.
b. It narrates the story of descent of River
Ganga on earth from heaven by the efforts
of Bhagiratha.
c. In close proximity lies a big rock boulder,
known as Krishna's Butter Ball.
4. Shore Temple Complex: It has two small
and one large temple enclosed within a
two tier compound wall studded with
images of Nandi, the Vahana of Shiva.
a. The temple is predominantly dedicated to
Lord Shiva with a sculpture of
Anantashayana Vishnu in one of the three
temples within the complex.
Hence, all the statements are correct.
30. Consider the following statements about
Dravidian Style of Temple Architecture:
1. Panchayatana style of temple making
2. A high entrance gateway
11
 3. A stepped pyramid
4. The presence of a water tank inside the
temple enclosure
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. Only three 4. All four
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Dravidian Style of Temple Architecture (Chola
Architecture)
 Under the patronage of the Chola rulers,
hundreds of temples were built in South
India. It was a continuation of the previous
Pallava architecture, with some variations.
This is what came to be known as the
Dravidian style of temple architecture.
The features of the Dravidian style or chola
style are:
1. Unlike the Nagara temples, the Dravidian
temples were surrounded by high
boundary walls.
2. The front wall had a high entrance
gateway known as gopuram.
3. The temple premise was laid out in
panchayatan style with a principal temple
and four subsidiary shrines.
4. Under Dravidian style, the spire is in the
form of a stepped pyramid that rises up
linearly rather than curved. It is known as
vimana.
5. The crowning element is shaped in the
form of an octagon and is known as
shikhara. It is similar to the kalash of the
Nagara temple, but not spherical.
6. There is only one vimana in the Dravidian
architecture on top of the main temple.
7. The subsidiary shrines do not have
vimanas, unlike Nagara architecture.
8. The assembly hall was connected with the
garbhagriha by a vestibular tunnel known
as antarala.
9. The entrance of the garbhagriha had
sculptures of Dwaarpal, mithun and
yaksha.
10. The presence of a water tank inside the
temple enclosure was a unique feature of
the Dravidian style
AMIGOS IAS
a. Examples: Brihadeeswara Temple at
Thanjavur (built by Raja Raja I in 1011 AD),
Gangaikondacholapuram Temple (built by
Rajendra I to commemorate his victory in
the Gangetic delta), etc.
Hence, all the statements are correct.
31. With reference to the Nataraja Sculpture of
Cholas, consider the following statements:
1. The drum in the hands of Shiva signifies
the sound of creation
2. The dwarf on who Shiva dances
symbolises ignorance and ego of an
individual
3. The Ornamentation of Shiva ears
represents the fusion of male and female
4. The nimbus of glowing lights around Shiva
symbolises the unending cycles of time
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. Only three 4. All four
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Chola Sculpture
1. An important feature of the Chola temples
was the importance placed on the
decoration through sculptures.
2. An important piece of Chola sculpture was
the sculpture of Nataraja in the Tandava
dance posture.
3. Though the earliest known Nataraja
sculpture, which has been excavated at
Ravana Phadi Cave at Aihole, was made
during the early Chalukya rule, the
sculpture reached its peak under the
Cholas
Some of the features of the Nataraja sculpture
are:
1. The upper right hand holds the drum,
which signifies the sound of creation. All
creations spring from the great sound of
the damru.
2. The upper left hand holds the eternal fire,
which represents destruction. Destruction
is the precursor and an inevitable
counterpart of creation.
3. The lower right hand is raised in the
gesture of abhaya mudra signifying
12
 benediction and reassuring the devotee
not to be afraid.
4. The lower left hand points towards the
upraised foot and indicates the path of
salvation.
5. Shiva is dancing on the figure of a small
dwarf. The dwarf symbolises ignorance
and the ego of an individual.
6. The matted and flowing locks of Shiva
represent the flow of river Ganges. In
ornamentation, one ear of Shiva has a
male earring while the other has a female.
This represents the fusion of male and
female and is often referred to as
ardhanarishvara.
7. A snake is twisted around the arm of
Shiva. It symbolises the kundalini power,
which resides in the human spine in a
dormant stage. If aroused, it can attain
true consciousness.
8. The Nataraja is surrounded by a nimbus of
glowing lights which symbolises the
unending cycles of time.
Hence, all the statements are correct.
32. Match List-I(Vedic Sacrifices) with List
II(Meaning/Purpose) and select the correct
answer using the codes given below the lists:
List I List II
1. Upanayana A. Promotes conception
2. Culakarama B. To procure a male child
3. Garbhadhana C. Confers dvija status
4. Pumsayam D. Tonsure ceremony
Code:
1. 1-C, 2-D, 3-A, 4-B 2. 1-D, 2-C, 3-B, 4-A
3. 1-A, 2-B, 3-C, 4-D 4. 1-B, 2-A, 3-D, 4-C
Answer: 1
Explanation:
Important Vedic Sacrifices:
1. Asvamedha
a. Horse sacrifice meant to establish a king's
supremacy over other kings.
2. Culakarama
a. A ceremony, also known as tonsure, is
performed for boys in their third year.
3. Garbhadhana
a. A ceremony to promote conception in
women.
4. Jatkarma
AMIGOS IAS
a. A birth ceremony performed before the
cutting of the umbilical card
5. Pumsayam
a. A ceremony to procure a male child
6. Rajasuya
a. A consecration ceremony which conferred
supreme power on the king
7. Ratnahavimsi
a. A part of Rajasuya ceremony in which
different royal officials (ratnins) invoked
different gods and goddesses.
b. The most important ritual throwing light
on the political organisation of the later
Vedic period.
8. Semontonnayam
a. A ceremony to ensure the safety of the
child in the womb.
9. Vajapeya
a. A chariot race which was meant to re-
establish a king's supremacy over his
people.
10. Upanayana
a. An initiation ceremony to confer dvija
status to boys of the higher varnas in their
eighth year.
33. Which of the following ceremonies throws
light on the political organisation of the later
vedic period?
1. Ratnahavimsi 2. Jatkarma
3. Asvamedha 4. Semontonnayam
Answer: 1
Explanation:
Ratnahavimsi
○ A part of Rajasuya ceremony in which
different royal officials (ratnins) invoked
different gods and goddesses.
○ The most important ritual throwing light
on the political organisation of the later
Vedic period.
34. Consider the following statements about
Nalanda University:
1. It was a major centre of Mahayana
Buddhist teachings.
2. Vedas, philosophy and medicine were
taught here
3. Aryabhatta studied here
4. Chinese scholar I-Tsing spent 10 years
here
13
 Which of the statements given above are 2. It is estimated to exist around the 5th
correct ? century BC.
1. 1,2 and 3 2. 2,3 and 4 3. It is believed that Chanakya composed
3. 1,3 and 4 4. All of the above the Arthashastra at this place.
Answer: 4 4. Both Buddhist and Hindu theologies were
Explanation; taught here.
Nalanda: 5. Subjects like political science, hunting,
1. The most renowned university of South medicine, law, military tactics were taught
Asia. here.
2. It is not clear as to who established it; it 6. Noted teachers and students from
was in existence during the Gupta period. Takshashila include Chanakya, Charak,
Panini, Jivaka, Prasenajit, etc.
3. It gained prominence under
Harshavardhana's reign and Pala kings. Hence, statements 2,3,4 and 5 are
correct.
4. All three Buddhist doctrines were taught
here, however, it was a major site for Refer the explanation of Q 34
Mahayana Buddhist teachings. 36. Which of the following Buddhist Mahavihara
5. Subjects like Vedas, fine arts, grammar, was destroyed by Bakhtiyar Khilji ?
philosophy, logic, medicine, etc. were also 1. Odantapuri 2. NagarjunaKonda
taught here. 3. Kancheepuram 4. Vallabhai
6. It had eight separate compounds and even Answer: 1
had dormitories for students. Explanation:
7. It attracted scholars from Central Asia, Odantapuri:
South-East Asia and other parts of the 1. It is located in Bihar and was made under
world. the patronage of Pala Dynasty King Gopala
8. The teachings in the university deeply 1.
influenced Tibetan Buddhism. 2. It was a Buddhist mahavihara which was
9. Famous scholars of Nalanda are destroyed by Bakhtiyar Khilji.
Nagarjuna (Madhyamika Shunyavad) and 37. Which of the following historical places are
Aryabhatta the astronomer known for Mural Paintings ?
10. Hsuan Tsang spent two years at the 1. Ajanta caves
university. Another Chinese scholar I-Tsing 2. Bagh caves
spent 10 years at Nalanda in the late 7th 3. Kailash Temple
century.
4. Sittanavasal Caves
Hence, all the statements are correct.
Select the correct answer using the codes
35. Who among the following scholars of Ancient given below:
India were associated with the Takshashila
1. 1,2 and 3 2. 1,3 and 4
university ?
3. 2,3 and 4 4. All of the above
1. Nagarjuna 2. Charak
Answer: 4
3. Panini 4. Jivaka
Explanation:
5. Prasenajit
Mural Paintings in India
Select the correct answer using the codes
1. The work on the walls or a solid structure
given below:
are referred to as Murals.
1. 1,2,3 and 4 2. 2,3,4 and 5
2. These have existed in India since ancient
3. 1,3,4 and 5 4. All of the above
times and can be dated between 10th
Answer: 2 century BC and 10th century AD.
Explanation: 3. The evidence of such paintings can be
Takshashila: found at several locations in India.
1. It is located in modern-day Pakistan.

AMIGOS IAS 14
 4. The beauty and the exquisiteness of mural
paintings can be seen in places like Ajanta,
Armamalai Cave, Ravan Chhaya Rock
Shelter, Bagh Caves, Sittanavasal Caves
and Kailash Temple in Ellora.
5. Most of the mural paintings are either in
natural caves or in rock- cut chambers.
6. The paintings follow a theme, the most
common being Hindu, Buddhist and Jain.
7. Apart from this, mural paintings were also
made to adorn any mundane premise.
a. An example of such a work can be seen in
the ancient theatre room in Jogimara
Caves.
Hence, all the statements are correct.
38. The Paintings of Bodhisattvas Vajrapani,
Manjusri and Padmapani are found at
1. Udayagiri 2. Bhag
3. Ellora 4. Ajanta
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Some important paintings at Ajanta are:
1. Scenes from the Jataka stories of the
Buddha's former lives as a Bodhisattva,
the life of Gautam Buddha, etc.
2. Paintings of various Bodhisattvas in
tribhanga pose in Cave No. 1: Vajrapani
(protector and guide, a symbol of
Buddha's power), Manjusri (manifestation
of Buddha's wisdom) and Padmapani
(Avalokitesvara) (symbol of Buddha's
compassion).
3. The Dying Princess in Cave No. 16.
40.
4. Scene of Shibi Jataka, where King Shibi
offered his own flesh to save the pigeon.
5. Scene of Matri-Poshaka Jataka where the
ungrateful person saved by an elephant,
gives out his whereabouts to the king
39. Consider the following statements about
Paintings during the times of Jahangir :
1. He was a naturalist and preferred the
paintings of flora and fauna
2. Famous Painter Ustad Mansoor was a
contemporary of him
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct ?
1. 1 only 2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: 3
AMIGOS IAS
Explanation:
Jahangir
1. The Mughal paintings reached its zenith in
the period of Jahangir.
2. He was a naturalist by nature and
preferred the paintings of flora and fauna,
ie. birds, animals, trees and flowers.
Hence, statement 1 is correct.
3. He shifted from illustrated manuscripts to
albums and emphasised on bringing
naturalism to portrait (individual)
painting.
4. One of the unique trends that developed
in this period was of decorated margins
around the paintings that were
sometimes as elaborate as the paintings
themselves.
5. Jahangir was himself considered to be a
good artist and he had his own private
workshop although no major work by him
survives.
6. His atelier mostly created miniature
paintings and the most famous amongst
them were the naturalistic paintings of the
Zebra, the turkey and the cock.
7. One of the most famous artists from his
period was Ustad Mansoor who was an
expert in drawing the features of the most
complex faces. Hence, statement 2 is
correct.
8. An animal fable called Ayar-i- Danish
(Touchstone of Knowledge) was
illustrated during his reign
The famous “ Bani-Thani ” painting belongs
to
1. Kishangarh school of Painting
2. Bundi school of Painting
3. Kangra school of Painting
4. Mewar school of Painting
Answer: 1
Explanation:
KISHANGARH SCHOOL OF PAINTING (17th-
18th Century AD)
1. Paintings at Kishangarh are associated
with the most romantic legends - Sawant
Singh and his beloved Bani Thani, and
intertwining of lives and myths, romance
and bhakti.
15
 2. After surveying earlier developments in
Kishangarh, the focus is on the interplay
between Sawant Singh (the prince and
lover), Nagari Das (the poet), and Nihal
Chand (the painter) who created some of
the most legendary paintings under this
school.
3. It is sometimes argued that the women in
'bani thani' are said to resemble the
character of Radha.
a. She has a distinctive profile and has lotus-
like elongated eyes, thin lips and a pointed
chin.
b. Her 'odhni' or headgear defines her side
profile.
c. This became the unique painting
associated with the Kishangarh School.
d. They also made many paintings on the
devotional and amorous relations
between Radha and Krishna.
41. With reference to Paintings during the time
of Akbar, consider the following statements:
1. He established an entire department
devoted to the paintings
2. He encouraged the artists to use
calligraphy in the paintings
3. Under him there was the transformation
of painting as a popular art to the court art
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. All three 4. None of the above
Answer: 3
Explanation:
1. Akbar was responsible for the
establishment of an entire department
devoted to the paintings and scribing of
his documents.
2. He established a formal artistic studio
called Tasvir Khana where the artists were
hired on salary and they developed their
own styles.
3. Akbar looked upon paintings as a means of
study and amusement.
4. He believed that a painting could show the
demeanour of the subject and regularly
awarded painters who created lifelike
images.
AMIGOS IAS
5. Akbar also recognised the beauty of those
Indian artists who had worked for
previous rulers and invited them to work
in his tasvir khana.
a. Hence, the 'Indian influence' started in the
Mughal paintings.
b. The defining features of paintings in
Akbar's period are the use of 3
dimensional figures and the continued use
of foreshortening.
6. Furthermore, the artists encouraged the
use of calligraphy in the paintings.
7. One of the distinguishing features of this
period was the transformation of popular
art to the court art, ie. The artist was more
focused on depicting the scenes of court
life than the life of the masses.
8. Famous painters of this period include:
Daswanth, Basawan and Kesu.
9. Prominent illustrated manuscripts during
Akbar's reign are Tutinama, Hamzanama,
Anvar-i- Suhaili and Gulistan of Sadi.
Hence, all the statements are correct.
42. Consider the following statements about
Bundi school of Painting :
1. Krishna-bhakti was the source of
inspiration for painting in this school
2. The local vegetation is depicted in great
detail in this school
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct ?
1. 1 only 2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: 3
Explanation:
BUNDI SCHOOL OF PAINTING (17th-19th
Century AD)
1. The twin kingdoms of Bundi and Kota are
collectively known as Hadoti.
2. The sister States, formed by splitting the
older Bundi kingdom between two
brothers, have closely intertwined
histories and artistic traditions.
3. Most of the focus is on the art of Kota, the
younger of the two kingdoms, and home
to some remarkable art and some
remarkably eccentric patrons
4. Bundi and Kota kings were devotees of
Krishna and in the 18th century, they
16
 declared themselves to be mere regents, 6. It is said that Amir Khusrau can be credited
ruling on behalf of the god who was the with the origin of Qawwali but it is
true king (similar patterns of worship are severely disputed. Major Qawwals are the
seen in several other centres, including Sabri Brothers, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Aziz
Udaipur and Jaipur). Warsi etc.
5. Their Krishna-bhakti plays a role in Hence, all the statements are correct.
painting or perhaps painting plays a role in Amir Khusrau
their Krishna bhakti. Hence, statement 1  He invented the musical instrument
is correct. Sehtar (a three strings instrument).
6. In Bundi school, paintings of local 44. Which of the following religions does not
vegetation were in detail. Hence, come under the category of Shramana
statement 2 is correct. School?
7. Human faces were round with pointed 1. Jainism 2. Ajivikas
noses. 3. Vaishnavism 4. Buddhism
8. Colour of the sky is painted in different Answer: 3
colours and mostly a red ribbon is visible
Explanation:
in the sky.
Shramana Schools
43. Consider the following statements about
Qawwali:  The word Shramana means one who
performs the act of austerity and
1. It is a kind of devotional music which is
asceticism. It refers to several Indian
sung in praise of a Sufi saint
religious movements parallel to Vedic
2. It is composed in a single raga
religion. The various Shramana schools
3. It seeks to induce a transcendental state. include:
4. Amir Khusrau is credited with the origin of 1. Jainism
it
2. Buddhism
Which of the statements given above are
3. Ajivikas
correct ?
4. Ajnanas
1. 1,2 and 3 2. 1,3 and 4
5. Charvakas
3. 2,3 and 4 4. All of the above
All five mentioned above belong to the Nastika
Answer: 4
or Heterodox school of philosophy.
Explanation:
45. According to the Buddhist tradition, the
Qawwali successor to Buddha will be
1. This is also a kind of devotional music as 1. Tathagata 2. Sakyamuni
they are in praise of Allah or the Prophet
3. Maitreya 4. Kassapa Buddha
Muhammad or any other major Sufi or
Answer: 3
Islamic saint.
Explanation:
2. It is composed in a single raga and is
generally written in Urdu, Punjabi or  Buddha is known in various Buddhist texts
Hindi. Some words of Brajbhasa and also as Tathagata and Sakyamuni. The
Awadhi are also used. predecessor of Buddha under Buddhism
was Kassapa Buddha and his successor will
3. They are performed in Sufi shrines.
be Maitreya (Future Buddha
4. Qawwali is usually sung as a solo or in
46. With reference to the religious practices in
groups of two lead singers and a team of
India, the “Sthavira Nikaya” sect belongs to
around eight members.
1. Shaivism 2. Vaishnavism
5. Musical instruments like tabla, dholak and
harmonium are used. The intensity or 3. Jainism 4. Buddhism
tempe gradually builds up, seeking to Answer:4
induce a transcendental state. Explanation:
EARLY BUDDHIST SCHOOLS

AMIGOS IAS 17
  After passing of Buddha, the original 48. With reference to Mahayana Buddhism,
Sangha is believed to have split into the consider the following statements:
two early schools in between 383 and 250 1. The concept of Bodhisattva is the result
BC: of it
1. Sthavira Nikaya (sub-sects included 2. A bodhisattva seeks complete
Mahisasaka, Sarvastivada, Sankrantika, enlightenment for the benefit of self
Sautrantika, Dharmaguptaka, 3. They predominantly used Sanskrit as a
Vatsiputriya, Dharmottariya, language for propagating their beliefs
Bhadrayaniya, Sannagarika and Which of the statements given above is/are
Sammitiya) correct ?
2. Mahasamghika (sub-sects included 1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
Gokulika, Prajnaptivada, Bahusrutiya, 3. 2 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3
Ekavyaharikas, Caitika)
Answer: 2
3. Other sub-sects not identified under
Explanation:
above two schools were
Mahayana Buddhism
a. Hemavatika, Rajagiriya, Siddhatthaka,
Pubbaseliya, Aparaseliya, and 1. It means the greater vehicle.
Apararajagirika. 2. The school is more liberal and believes in
4. Later Buddhist schools included the heavenliness of Buddha and
Theravada, Mahayana, Vajrayana, etc. Bodhisattvas embodying Buddha Nature.
47. Consider the following statements about 3. The ultimate goal under Mahayana is
Buddhism: spiritual upliftment.
1. It rejects the authenticity of Vedas 4. The Mahayana followers believe in idol or
image worship of Buddha.
2. It rejects the concept of existence of Soul
5. The concept of Bodhisattva is the result of
Which of the statements given above is/are
Mahayana Buddhism. Hence, statement 1
incorrect ?
is correct.
1. 1 only 2. 2 only
6. Mahayana is also called "Bodhisattva
3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2 Yana", or the "Bodhisattva Vehicle". That
Answer: 4 is to say, the followers believe in the
Explanation: Bodhisattva concept of salvation of all
 According to Buddha, the Middle Path conscious individuals. In other words, they
(Madhyam Marg) or Middle Way believe in universal liberation from
describes the character of the Noble suffering of all beings.
Eightfold Path that leads to liberation. 7. A bodhisattva seeks complete
Buddhism rejects the authenticity of enlightenment for the benefit of all
Vedas.Hence, statement 1 is correct. beings; a bodhisattva who has
 It also rejects the concept of existence of accomplished this goal is called a
Soul (atman) unlike Jainism.Hence, Samyaksambuddha. Hence, statement 2
statement 2 is correct. is incorrect.
 Once Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana 8. Prominent Mahayana texts include Lotus
at Kushinagar in 483 BC, there was a need Sutra, Mahavamsa, etc.
to compile his teachings, and hence four 9. As per Lotus Sutra, Mahayana school
Buddhist Councils were held in a span of believes in six perfections (or paramitas)
next 500 years to collate this material into to be followed by an individual:
Pitakas. The result was writing of three a. Dana (generosity)
major pitakas Vinaya, Sutta and b. Sila (virtue, morality, discipline and proper
Abhidhamma, that when combined were conduct)
called Tripitaka. All of these have been c. Kşanti (patience, tolerance, acceptance)
written in Pali Language.
d. Virya (energy, diligence, vigour, effort)

AMIGOS IAS 18
 e. Dhyana (one-pointed concentration) 2. The places visited under these two
f. Prajna (wisdom and insight) kingdoms include Kapilavastu, Rajgriha,
10. As per scholars, one of the sub-sects of Vaishali, Gaya, Bodh Gaya, Sarnath,
Mahayana being developed in the later Kosambi, Shravasti (capital of Kosala
periods was Vajrayana. Kingdom), Kushinagar, Nalanda, Mathura,
11. The Mahayana scholars predominantly Varanasi, Saket, Champapuri, etc.
used Sanskrit as a language. Hence, 51. Who among the following disciples of
statement 3 is correct. Buddha listened to his teachings the most ?
12. Emperor Kanishka of Kushana dynasty is 1. Mahamoggallana 2. Katyayana
said to be the founder of Mahayana sect 3. Ananda 4. Jivaka
of Buddhism in 1st century AD. Answer: 3
49. With reference to Indian History, who among Explanation:
the following is the listener of the world's Prominent Disciples of Buddha in ancient
cries who uses skillful means to come to their period
aid ? 1. Sariputta - Chief Disciple
1. Avalokitesvara 2. Manjusri 2. Mahamoggallana - Chief Disciple
3. Vajrapani 4. Tara 3. Ananda - listened to Buddha teachings the
Answer: 1 most among others
Explanation: 4. Mahakasyapa
Avalokitesvara: 5. Purna Maitrayani-putra
1. One of the three protective deities around 6. Anuruddha
Buddha. 7. Rahul
2. He is described as holding a Lotus Flower 8. Katyayana
and is also known as Padmapani. 9. Upali
3. His painting can be found at Ajanta Caves 10. Anathapindika
and is the most acknowledged among all
11. Subhuti
the Bodhisattvas.
12. Jivaka
4. The bodhisattva of compassion, the
52. In the context of Theravada Buddhism, the
listener of the world's cries who uses
term “Arhat” refers to
skillful means to come to their aid.
1. The one who has not yet gained insights
5. He appears unofficially in Theravada
into the true nature of existence and is
Buddhism in Cambodia under the name
trying to achieve nirvana
Lokesvara.
2. The person who has attained peace for
6. He is depicted as a female also and is said
himself but is not willing to give it up for
to incarnate as His Holiness The Dalai
the sake of others
Lama
3. The person who has attained peace for
50. Consider the following places:
himself but is willing to give it up for the
1. Kushinagar 2. Sarnath
sake of others
3. Kapilavastu 4. Rajgriha
4. The one who has gained insights into the
Which of the above are visited by Buddha ? true nature of existence and has achieved
1. 1,2 and 3 2. 2,3 and 4 nirvana
3. 1,3 and 4 4. All of the above Answer: 4
Answer: 4 Explanation:
Explanation: 16 ARHATS OF BUDDHA
PLACES VISITED BY BUDDHA 1. Arhat under Theravada Buddhism is said
1. The kingdoms he visited are Kosala and to be the one who has gained insights into
Magadha Kingdom. the true nature of existence and has
achieved nirvana.

AMIGOS IAS 19
 2. However, under Mahayana Buddhism,
Arhat is the person who is far advanced in
the path of attaining nirvana but has not
attained it.
3. In total, 16 legendary Arhats prevail under
Buddhism.
4. Nagasena (a Sarvastivadan Buddhist of
2nd century BC) and even Gautam
Buddha's son Rahul are considered to be
one of the 16 Arhats.
5. Under Mahayana, Arhat is the person who
has attained peace for himself but is not
willing to give it up for the sake of others.
6. Whereas Bodhisattva under Mahayana
Bodhisattva is an awakened being who
vowed to indefinitely stick in Samsara for
the sake of others.
7. Therefore, Mahayana Buddhists prefer
Bodhisattva as a goal rather than
becoming an Arhat
53. The chief deity of Vajrayana Buddhism is
1. Skanda 2. Tara
3. Vasundhara 4. Vajrapani
Answer: 2
Explanation:
Vajrayana Buddhism (Tantric Buddhism)
1. Scholars contemplate that Vajrayana
school developed as a result of royal
courts sponsoring both Buddhism and
Shaivism, i.e., they say, it was influenced
by Hinduism.
2. The main deity is Tara (a lady)
3. It involved combining Brahmanical (Veda
based) rituals with Buddhist philosophies
4. Vajrayana is based on Mahayana Buddhist
philosophy.
5. This school believes in Tantra's, Mantras
and Yantras superiority as being a faster
vehicle to liberation containing many
skillful methods of tantric ritual
6. According to this school, the mantra is an
easy path to achieve Buddhahood without
the difficulties as compared to striving for
six perfections or Paramitas under
Mahayana.
54. With reference to Digambara School of
Jainism, consider the following statements :
1. They follow the teachings of Mahavira
2. Sthulabhadra was a great exponent of this
school
3. Monasticism rules are more liberal under
it
Which of the statements given above are
incorrect ?
1. 1 and 2 2. 2 and 3
3. 1 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3
Answer: 2
Explanation:
Digambara School:
1. Monks of the Digambara tradition do not
wear clothes as this sect believes in
complete nudity.
2. Female monks wear unstitched plain
white sarees and are called Aryikas.
3. Digambaras follow all the five constraints
(Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Aparigraha and
Brahmacharya) as per the teachings of
Mahavira, unlike Svetambaras. Hence,
statement 1 is correct.
4. Bhadrabahu was an exponent of
Digambara sect and he moved to
Karnataka along with his disciples after
predicting a long famine. Hence,
statement 2 is incorrect.
5. The earliest record of Digambara beliefs is
contained in the Prakrit Suttapahuda of
Kundakunda.
6. Digambara Jains believe that women can
not be tirthankaras and that Malli was a
man.
7. Monasticism rules are more rigid under
Digambara School. Hence, statement 3 is
incorrect.
55. Consider the following statements about
Svetambara School :
1. They believe that tirthankaras can be men
or women
2. Bhadrabahu was an exponent of it
3. They follow the preachings of
Parshvanatha
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. All three 4. None of the above
Answer: 2
Explanation:
Svetambara School:

AMIGOS IAS 20
 1. Svetambaras follow the preachings of
Parshvanatha, i.e. they believe in only four
restraints (except Brahmacharya) to be
followed to attain Kevalya. Hence,
statement 3 is correct.
2. Svetambaras believe that the 23rd and
24th tirthankara did marry, unlike as
thought by the Digambara sect.
3. Sthulabhadra was a great exponent of this
school and stayed in Magadha unlike
Bhadrabahu who went to Karnataka.
Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.
4. The monks of Svetambara School can have
simple white clothing, a begging bowl, a
brush to remove insects from their path.
books and writing materials with them.
5. They believe tirthankaras can be men or
women, and say that Malli began her life
as a princess. Hence, statement 1 is
correct.
56. With reference to the religious practices in
India, the “Bispanthi” sect belongs to
1. Shaivism 2. Vaishnavism
3. Jainism 4. Buddhism
Answer: 3
Explanation:
Jainism has two major ancient sub traditions:
1. Digambaras [Sub-sects include Mula
Sangh (original community)
Terapanthi, Taranpathi and Bispanthi
(these three are modern communities)]
2. Svetambaras (Sub-sects include
Sthanakavasi and Murtipujaka)
57. Which of the following is/are the
advantage/(s) enjoyed by the Guptas that
made them expand their Political sway in
North India?
1. The fertile land of Madhya Desa
2. Their proximity to the rich iron ore
deposits
3. Use of horse chariots and elephants
Select the correct answer using the codes
given below:
1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 3 4. 3 only
Answer: 1
Explanation:
AMIGOS IAS
1. With their power centre at Prayag, they
gradually gained control over the
neighbouring regions.
2. The Guptas enjoyed certain basic
advantages-
a. They operated from the fertile land of
Madhya desa covering UP and Bihar.
Hence, statement 1 is correct.
b. They were located in close proximity to
the rich iron ore deposits of central India
south Bihar. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
c. Like the Kushans, the basic strength of the
Guptas lay in their horses (and not horse
chariots or elephants) which gave them
mobility. Hence, statement 3 is incorrect.
58. Which of the following types of coins are
issued by the Gupta Emperor Samudragupta?
1. Archer type
2. Tiger Slayer type
3. Veena type
4. Ashvamedha type
Select the correct answer using the codes
given below:
1. 1,2 and 3 2. 2,3 and 4
3. 1,3 and 4 4. All of the above
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Coinage of Samudragupta:
and
1. Various types of coins of Samudragupta,
with Sanskrit legends, have been found.
2. In his coins Samudragupta is shown in
various poses representing his skills and
prowess.
a. Standard type (most frequent)
i. Samudragupta is shown holding a long
staff and offering oblations into a fire
altar, the garuda standard appears to the
left.
ii. Legend: parakramah (brave).
b. Archer type
i. Depicts Samudragupta as an archer,
holding a bow and an arrow.
ii. Legend: apratirathan(invincible).
c. Battle-axe type
i. Samudragupta is shown standing with a
battle-axe, and a dwarf looking up at him
ii. Legend: "Kritanta-parashuh’
d. Tiger Slayer type Obverse (Obv):
21
 i. Samudragupta is shown trampling and Explanation:
killing a tiger. Campaign against the Shakas
ii. Reverse (Rev): goddess Ganga standing on 1. Chandragupta-II's major military
makara, holding lotus. campaign was fought against the Shakas.
iii. Legend: 'vyaghra-parakrama' (brave as a 2. Chandragupta-ll killed the Shaka ruler
tiger). Rudrasimha-III and annexed his
e. Veena/Lyrist type Obv: territories, bringing an end to the nearly
i. Samudragupta is sitting on a couch and four-hundred-year-old Shaka Kshatrapa
playing the veena rule in Malwa and Gujarat.
ii. Rev: seated Lakshmi. 3. With this-
f. Ashvamedha type Obv: a. Chandragupta-ll adopted the title of
i. Horse standing before a decorated yupa. "Vikramaditya, after king Vikramaditya
ii. Rev: goddess/queen standing on lotus. from Ujjain who had first succeeded in
driving away the Shakas in 57 BCE.
iii. Legend: ashwamedha-parakrama
(powerful enough to perform the b. He gained control over the lucrative
ashvamedha). western coast covering present-day
Gujarat.
Hence, all the statements are correct.
c. To commemorate the event, he issued
59. With respect to the religion of
special Lion Slayer type silver coins,
Samudragupta, consider the following
bearing the legend simha-vikrama, these
statements:
coins were based on those issued by the
1. Samudragupta was a Buddhist
Shakas of Malwa, hence also called Shaka
2. The great Buddhist scholar Vasubandhu type.
was his minister
i. In this way, Chandragupta-ll emerged as
Which of the statements given above is/are the first Gupta king to issue silver coins.
correct ?
d. Ujjain emerged as his second capital
1. 1 only 2. 2 only
e. his court at Ujjain was decorated by many
3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2 learned men (navaratnas)
Answer: 2 Hence, all the statements are correct.
Explanation: 61. Who among the following Gupta kings was
Religion the first to issue silver coins ?
1. Samudragupta was a Vaishnava.Hence, 1. Chandragupta-I 2. Rama Gupta
statement 1 is incorrect. 3. Samudragupta 4. Chandragupta- II
2. But he was tolerant towards Buddhism Answer: 4
3. The great Buddhist scholar Vasubandhu Explanation:
was his minister. Hence, statement 2 is
Refer the explanation of Q 60
correct.
62. Match List-I(Navratnas) with List II(Field) and
60. Which of the following is/are the
select the correct answer using the codes
consequences of Chandragupta-II defeating
given below the lists:
the Shaka ruler Rudrasimha-III ?
List I List II
1. He adopted the title of Vikramaditya
1. Amarasimha A. Mathematician
2. He gained control over the lucrative
2. Varahamihira B. Physician
Gujarat coast
3. Dhanvantri C. Architect
3. He issued special Lion Slayer type coins
4. Shanku D. Sanskrit grammarian
Select the correct answer using the code given
below: Codes:
1. Only one 2. Only two 1. 1-C, 2-B, 3-A, 4-D 2. 1-B, 2-C, 3-D, 4-A
3. All three 4. None of the above 3. 1-A, 2-D, 3-C, 4-B 4. 1-D, 2-A, 3-B, 4-C
Answer: 3 Answer: 4

AMIGOS IAS 22
 Explanation:
Navaratnas (nine gems) in the court of
Chandragupta-II
1. Kalidasa-The great Sanskrit poet and
dramatist.
2. Amarsimha-Sanskrit grammarian.
3. Varahamihira-Renowned mathematician
and astrologer.
4. Vararuchi-Sanskrit grammarian, believed
to be the author of Prakrit Prakash, the
oldest grammar of the Prakrit language.
He is identified with Katyayana.
5. Vetala Bhatta -A magician believed to be
the author of Mantrashastra.
6. Dhanvantri-A physician, mentioned in the
Puranas as the god of Ayurveda.
7. Ghatakarapara-An expert in architecture
and sculpture.
8. Shanku-An architect and author of Shilpa
Shastra.
9. Kshapanaka-An astrologer believed to be
the author of Jyotishyashastra
63. Who among the following scholars is
believed to be the author of
Jyotishyashastra?
1. Vetala Bhatta 2. Vararuchi
3. Kalidasa 4. Kshapanaka
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Navaratnas (nine gems) in the court of
Chandragupta-II
1. Kalidasa-The great Sanskrit poet and
dramatist.
2. Amarsimha-Sanskrit grammarian.
3. Varahamihira-Renowned mathematician
and astrologer.
4. Vararuchi-Sanskrit grammarian, believed
to be the author of Prakrit Prakash, the
oldest grammar of the Prakrit language.
He is identified with Katyayana.
5. Vetala Bhatta -A magician believed to be
the author of Mantrashastra.
6. Dhanvantri-A physician, mentioned in the
Puranas as the god of Ayurveda.
7. Ghatakarapara-An expert in architecture
and sculpture.
8. Shanku-An architect and author of Shilpa
Shastra.
AMIGOS IAS
9. Kshapanaka-An astrologer believed to be
the author of Jyotishyashastra
64. The core geographical area of the Rigvedic
Aryans is
1. Indus Region
2. Upper Gangetic Plains
3. Middle Gangetic Plains
4. Jambudwipa
Answer: 1
Explanation:
1. The geographical spread of the Rigvedic
Aryans was from Afghanistan in the west
to the western bank of the Ganga in the
east, and from Himalayas in the north to
the northern border of Rajasthan in the
south.
2. However, the geographical focus, i.e. the
core geographical area to which the
evidence of the Rigveda relates to is the
Sapta-Sindhu Pradesh or the Indus region-
covering the whole of present-day Punjab,
Haryana, Gomal plains, southern
Afghanistan and southern Jammu and
Kashmir.
Note: Civilisations in the Indian subcontinent
moved from west to east.
 In the later Vedic period, the Kurus(Later
Vedic tribe) expanded eastwards and
occupied the upper doab region around
present Delhi, which came to be known as
Kurukshetra (the Land of the Kurus). They
eventually tied up with the Panchalas of
the middle doab region, and together
emerged as a force to reckon with.
65. In the context of Vedic India, the terms refer
to dasas and dasyus refer to
1. Aryan Tribes
2. Slaves
3. Prisoners of War
4. Indigenous tribes
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Aryan Tribes:
1. Intra-tribal conflicts rocked the Aryans for
a long time.
2. The Aryans were divided into five main
tribes called the Pancha-jana-
a. These were Anu, Yadu, Puru, Druhyu, and
Turvasha.
23
 3. The Bharatas and the Tritsus were the
ruling Aryan clans
a. The country was eventually named
"Bharatvarsha" after the Bharata tribe
which first appears in the Rigveda.
b. While fighting among themselves, the
Aryans sometimes enlisted the support of
non-Aryans as well.
Non-Aryan Tribes
1. Indigenous tribes were called dasas,
dasyus, etc.
NOTE:
Dasas:
1. The term 'dasa’, that referred to
indigenous people in the Rigvedic times,
subsequently began to be used to refer to
anyone who had been subordinated or
enslaved.
2. Thus, there are references to slaves
termed as dasas and dasis'
a. slaves were considered as gift items in
dana-stutis.
66. Consider the following statements about
Dashrajan Yuddha
1. The Bharatas were opposed by a
confederacy of Aryan tribes only
2. Before the battle, Vishwamitra the Purohit
of Bharatas was replaced by Vasishtha
3. The battle established the supremacy of
the Bharatas
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. All three 4. None of the above
Answer: 2
Dashrajan Yuddha
1. The Bharatas were opposed by a
confederacy of 10 tribal chiefs-5 Aryan
and 5 non-Aryan. Hence, statement 1 is
incorrect.
2. In the Rigveda, this conflict is mentioned
as dashrajan yuddha or the Battle of Ten
Kings.
3. It was fought on the banks of river Ravi
(Parushni).
4. The Bharatas were led by King Sudas
(grandson of Divodasa) who had a purohit
named Vishwamitra.
AMIGOS IAS
5. Before the battle, Vishwamitra was
replaced by Vasishtha, indicating some
behind the scene re-alignment. Hence,
statement 2 is correct.
6. The battle was won by Sudas and this
established the supremacy of the
Bharatas. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
7. After the battle, Sudas celebrated his
victory by performing the ashvamedha
sacrifice.
8. The Bharatas later joined hands with one
of the defeated tribes, the Purus, and
formed a new ruling tribe called the Kurus.
67. In the context of Vedic India, all four varna
divisions of society are mentioned for the
first time in
1. Rig Veda 2. Atharva Veda
3. Upanishads 4. Aranyakas
Answer: 1
Explanation:
10th Mandal of Rigveda
1. All four divisions are mentioned for the
first time in the 'Purusha-sukta' (Hymn of
the Primeval Man) contained in the 10th
mandal of the Rig Veda.
2. It describes, rather spectacularly, the
origin of the four varnas (though the term
'varna' itself is not mentioned) from the
body of the primaeval man/universal
creator, Purusha/Prajapati, in the course
of a sacrifice in which Purusha was the
sacrificial offering.
3. Prajapati, through a sacrifice of himself,
brings forth the creation the brahmana
emerged from his mouth the rajanya
(instead of kshatriya) from his arms, the
vaishya from his thighs, and the shudra
from his feet.
4. The symbolism implies-
a. that the varnas are of divine origin and
hence cannot be questioned
b. that the four varnas are four limbs of
society, but these limbs are not equal;
while the brahmanas are associated with
the head and ascribed intellectual tasks,
the shudras are compared to the feet and
ascribed menial tasks
24
68. Who among the following people were Vidarbha, Nishadha, Pulinda, Shabara, and
labelled as Mlechchhas by the Later Vedic Kirata.
Literature ? g. Later, the north-west and the east were
1. Andhras 2. Pulindas termed as the 'land of the mlechchhas.
3. Magadhas 4. Kiratas Hence, all the statements are correct.
Select the correct answer using the code given 69. Which of the following is not a part of
below: Purushartha?
1. 1 and 2 2. 3 and 4 1. Kama 2. Dharma
3. 2 and 3 4. All of the above 3. Jnana 4. Moksha
Answer: 4 Answer: 3
Explanation: Explanation:
Other Social Groups during Later Vedic Age: Puruşārtha
There were other lowly groups who were 1. The concept of purusärthas was the
considered even lower than the shudras fundamental principle of Indian social
1. Dasas: ethics.
a. The term 'dasa, that referred to 2. The aim of every individual was to attain
indigenous people in the Rigvedic times, the four noble ends or puruşārtha.
now began to be used to refer to anyone 3. These four puruşārthas are dharma,
who had been subordinated or enslaved. artha, kama and moksha.
b. Thus, there are references to slaves Four Puruşārthas
termed as dasas and dasis 1. Dharma: Righteous action
c. slaves were considered as gift items in 2. Artha: Material means to earn livelihood
dana-stutis. 3. Kama: Sensual pleasure
2. Chandalas 4. Moksha: Liberation from the cycle of birth,
a. Chandalas, responsible for the disposal of death and rebirth
the dead, were clearly looked down 70. The only Indus site where the remains of a
upon—Chandogya Upanishad mentions Horse have been found is
that birth as dog, hog, or chandala was a 1. Surkotada 2. Chanhudaro
result of low actions of previous birth.
3. Lothal 4. Banawali
3. Mlechchhas
Answer: 1
a. Distinction began to be made between
Explanation:
caste society and others who did not
Major Cities and their Special Features:
follow caste rules.
Chanhudaro:
b. Thus, various forest dwellers, tribals and
others (simply all people beyond the 1. Only Indus city without a citadel
Aryavarta) who represented non- 2. Like Mohenjo-Daro it was also flooded
assimilated groups began to be referred to more than once
as 'mlechchha, i.e., impure barbarians 3. Discovery of a small pot which was
unfamiliar with the language and customs probably an ink-well
of the Aryans. Kalibangan:
c. In this way, the concept of mlechchha 1. One of the two Indus cities which have
emerged during this period. both proto-Harappan and Harappan
d. The mlechchhas were considered cultural phases
'outsiders' or those outside the pale of 2. In its proto-Harappan phase, the fields
caste society. were ploughed
e. Among the mlechchhas were included the 3. Discovery of platforms with five alters
people of Magadha, Anga, and Vanga. Lothal:
f. Other mlechchha tribes frequently 1. The only Indus site with an artificial brick
mentioned include the Satvant, Andhra, dockyard

AMIGOS IAS 25
 2. Evidence for the earliest use of rice was originally called Harappan Civilization
3. Discovery of fire altars after this site
Banawali: 2. Granaries-two rows of six granaries; these
1. Evidence of having both proto-Harappan were the nearest buildings to the river
and Harappan cultural phases Working floors-rows of circular brick
Surkotada: platforms meant for threshing grain
1. The only Indus site where the remains of a 3. Barracks-rows of single-roomed barracks,
horse have actually been found housed labourers
2. Must have been another port-city 4. "Workmen quarter' has been found
71. The only city of Indus Valley civilisation 73. The ideas of Kabir were compiled in a text
without a citadel is called
1. Harappa 2. Kalibangan 1. Tawarikh 2. Dabistan-i-Mazahib
3. Lothal 4. Chanhudaro 3. Gita Govinda 4. Bijak
Answer: 4 Answer: 4
Explanation: Explanation:
Chanhudaro: Kabir:
1. Only Indus city without a citadel 1. He believed in Vaishnavism and had a
strong bent to monism (Advaita
2. Like Mohenjo-Daro it was also flooded
philosophy) signifying the presence of God
more than once
inside every person and everything.
3. Discovery of a small pot which was
2. He was the disciple of Ramananda.
probably an ink-well
3. He belonged to nirguna school and
72. The largest of all the cities in the Indus Valley
criticised the orthodox ideas and
Civilisation is
discriminatory caste system.
1. Mohenjodaro 2. Harappa
4. His followers are known as Kabir panthis.
3. Kalibangan 4. Lothal
5. His ideas have been compiled in a text
Answer: 1
called Bijak.
Explanation:
6. Kabir's verses were also incorporated in
Mohenjo-Daro: Adi Granth, an important text of Sikhism.
1. The largest of all the Indus cities 74. Consider the following statements about
2. Great Bath the most important public Guru Nanak:
place, remarkable for beautiful brickwork 1. He belonged to the Nirguna school
3. Great Granary the largest building 2. He incorporated Kabir's verses in Adi
4. Multi-pillared assembly hall and a big Granth
rectangular building Which of the statements given above is/are
5. Another building, identified as the temple. correct ?
6. Mohenjo-Daro in Sindhi language means 1. 1 only 2. 2 only
the 'Mound of the Dead" 3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2
7. It was excavated in 1922 by R. D. Banerji. Answer: 3
From the ruins, the archaeologists have
Explanation:
concluded that it was once a well-planned
Guru Nanak
city with straight, wide roads and a very
highly developed system of drainage and 1. He is said to have been inspired by Kabir
sanitation and belonged to Nirguna school.
8. The famous Dancing Girl' is found from 2. He was the first among the 10 sikh gurus
this site only 3. He is said to be the founder of Sikhism.
Harappa: Hence, statements 1 and 2 are correct.
1. The first Indus site to be discovered and Refer the explanation of of Q 73
excavated in 1921. The Indus Civilization

AMIGOS IAS 26
75. Who among the following Bhakti saints 5. According to Sufism, Love of God meant
belong to Varkari sect ? love towards humanity and they believe
1. Dnyaneshwar service to humanity equals service of God.
2. Sankar Dev 6. Sufism inculcated a spirit of tolerance
3. Narsinh Mehta among its followers.
4. Surdas 7. They rejected elaborate rituals but didn't
Answer: 1 promote strict asceticism like the Bhakti
saints
Explanation:
77. In the context of Sufism, the term ‘Wahadat-
Dnyaneshwar:
ul-wajood’ refers to
1. He was the worshipper of Vithoba, a
1. Perfect human with all good virtues
manifestation of Lord Vishnu and is
related to the Varkari sect. 2. Spiritual dance
2. He authored Dnyaneshwari (a 3. Spiritual merger with god
commentary on the Bhagavad Gita) and 4. Unity of god and being
Amrutanubhav. Answer: 4
3. These two works are considered to be the Explanation:
earliest surviving works in Marathi The essential characteristics of Sufism are:
literature. a. Fana:
4. He was the contemporary of another i. Spiritual merger of devotee with Allah
great Marathi philosopher Namdev. b. Insan-e-kamil:
i. Perfect human with all good virtues,
c. Zikr-tauba:
76. The ultimate goal of Sufism is to achieve i. Remembrance of god all the time(zikr),
1. Salvation 2. Happiness d. Wahadat-ul-wajood:
3. Union with God 4. Rebirth i. One god for entire universe, unity of god
Answer: 3 and being
Explanation: e. Sama:
Origin i. Spiritual dance and music promote their
1. Sufism is the mystical arm of Islam and is concepts, though music is un-Islamic.
better known as tasawwuf. 78. With reference to Sufi orders, consider the
2. It stresses on self realisation, tolerance, following statements:
righteousness and universal love for all. 1. The Be-shara sufis followed the Sharia law
Characteristics 2. The Ba-shara sufis did not follow the
1. The Sufis tried to purify their inner self by Sharia law
rigid introspection and mental struggle so Which of the statements given above is/are
as to remove even the smallest sign of correct ?
selfishness and attain ikhlas, (absolute 1. 1 only 2. 2 only
purity of intention and act). 3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2
2. The mystics realised that beyond the Answer: 4
knowledge of outward sciences, intuitive
Explanation:
knowledge was required in order to
Different Sufi Orders in India
receive that illumination to which reason
has no access. 1. The Sufis came to be organised into orders
or 'silsilas'.
3. Sufism strictly follows the concept of pir-
murshidi. (similar to Guru-Shishya 2. Ain-I-Akbari mentions a dozen silsilas.
tradition). 3. They were divided into 'Be-shara' (against
4. The ultimate goal of Sufism is Union with Sharia law) and 'Ba-shara' (in favour of
God. Sharia law).Hence, statements 1 and 2 are
incorrect.

AMIGOS IAS 27
 4. The Ba-shara Sufis followed the law of
Islam (i.e. Sharia) and the silsilah (order)
founded by one saint was continued by his
disciples.
a. Prominent Silsilahs or Sufi orders were -
Chishti, Suhrawardi, Firdausi, Qadariya,
Naqshbandi, etc.
5. The Be-shara did not believe in Sharia law.
a. They came to be called 'Mast qalandars/
Malangs/Haidaris'.
b. These wandering saints were commonly
known as 'babas'.
c. They hardly left any written accounts.
d. Usually, they followed very harsh forms of
asceticism and defied or ignored the
rituals.
79. Tansen, the legendary musician of Akbar's
court, was also a follower of
1. Chishti Silsilah 2. Naqshbandi Silsilah
3. Firdausi Silsilah 4. Shattari Silsilah
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Shattari Silsilah
1. It was established by Sheikh Sirajuddin
Abdullah Shattar and became popular in
Mal Jaunpur and Bengal.
2. Tansen, the legendary musician of Akbar's
court, was also a follower of this order.
80. Consider the following statements about Sufi
Saints:
1. The inam grants received by them could
not be passed to their descendants.
2. They leased their political sovereignty to
kings
3. They won hearts and allegiance of masses
more than the Ulema
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 3 4. All of the above
Answer: 3
Explanation;
IMPORTANCE OF SUFI SAINTS
1. Most of the Sufi saints were given land
grants or inam grants, which they could
pass to their descendants.
a. These actions institutionalised the cult of
the sheikh and gave an economic base to
AMIGOS IAS
his descendants to move up the social
ladder.Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.
2. The Sufis extended their spiritual
authority over the world and leased their
political sovereignty to kings, charging
them with the worldly business of
administration, warfare, taxation and so
forth.Hence, statement 2 is correct.
3. They promoted religious brotherhood and
equality amongst the masses. They also
wrote in vernacular or local languages so
that more and more people could hear or
read their songs and messages.
4. Although Sufi shrines had important
economic socio- political effects on the
masses of villagers to the sultans of the
realm, yet its main reason was to be a
religious institution.
Hence, we may conclude that they might
not have the power of sharia to back them
up legally but in the sphere of customs and
masses, the Sufis won hearts and
allegiance more than the Ulema or the
priests would.Hence, statement 3 is
correct.
81. The famous love story of Laila Majnu and
Ashiqa was written by
1. Al-Masudi 2. Nicolo Conti
3. Amir Khusrow 4. Abdur Razzaq
Answer: 3
Explanation:
Amir Khusrow - An Epitome of Classical Music
1. Amir Khusrow (1253-1325) was a South
Asian Sufi musician, poet and scholar.
2. He was a spiritual disciple of Nizamuddin
Auliya of Delhi.
3. Khusrow is sometimes referred to as the
"Parrot of India".
4. His songs are sung in several dargahs
across the country.
5. Khusrow is regarded as the "Father of
Qawwali".
6. His contribution to the development of
the ghazal was significant and is said to
have invented sitar.
7. He is also credited with enriching Indian
classical music by introducing Persian and
Arabic elements in it, and was the
originator of the khayal and tarana styles
of music.
28
 8. The famous love story of Laila Majnu and
Ashiqa were written by him. He was a
classical poet associated with the royal
courts of more than seven rulers of the
Delhi Sultanate.
82. With reference to the economic history of
Medieval India, the terms Nigama, Samuha
and Samgha refers to
1. Guilds
2. Village Assemblies
3. Temple organisations
4. Buddhist Monasteries
Answer: 1
Explanation:
GUILD
1. A guild was an organisation of traders
formed by them in order to protect their
interests.
2. During the early medieval period
merchant guilds were an important
element of the economic life of the
period.
3. Various guild names included: the
Nigama, the Shreni, the Samuha, the
Sartha, the Samgha and so on and so
forth.
83. Consider the following statements about
Guilds :
1. They were voluntary associations of
merchants
2. They fixed the prices of their goods
3. They set up their own rules and
regulations
4. They acted as the custodians of religious
interests.
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. Only three 4. All four
Answer: 4
Explanation:
● Guilds were voluntary associations of
merchants dealing in grains, textiles, betel
leaves, horses, perfumes, etc.
● They were formed by both the local as
well as the itinerant merchants.
● Groupings, associations and guilds of local
merchants, particularly those who had a
permanent residential abode in towns,
AMIGOS IAS
were that much more durable than the
guilds of itinerant merchants which were
formed as a make-shift arrangement to
meet the exigencies of either a situational
crises or for a specific journey and were
terminated at the end of each venture.
● The guilds set up their own rules and
regulations regarding membership and
the code of conduct.
● They fixed the prices of their goods and
could even decide that a specific
commodity would not be sold on a
particular day by its members.
● They could even refuse to trade on a
particular day or in a particular area or
locality if they found the local authorities
hostile or uncooperative.
● Guilds also acted as the custodians of
religious interests.
● Inscriptions refer to numerous instances
when it was decided to collectively pay an
additional tax on the sale and purchase of
goods for the maintenance of temples or
temple functions.
● These guilds functioned according to the
rules framed by members.
● Members who violated guild rules could
face punitive measures like expulsion.
● Guilds were required to deal directly with
the king and settle the market tolls and
taxes on behalf of fellow merchants.
● A member of the guild worked under a
strict code of discipline and to some
extent was robbed of initiative and
freedom of action but also enjoyed
numerous benefits.
● He received the full backing and support
of the guild and was thus saved from the
harassment of local officials.
● It also provided the member a greater
credulity in the market.
Hence, all the statements are correct.
84. With reference to the Village administration
of Cholas, consider the following statements:
1. The administration was carried out with
the help of village assemblies
2. In this assembly, different committees
were constituted
29
 3. It was through these committees that the
village assembly was performing various
functions
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Variyam system:-
1. The village administration was carried out
with the help of the village assembly.
Hence, statement 1 is correct.
2. Once in a year an assembly of villagers was
convened within the boundary of the
temple at the beats of drum.
3. In this assembly, different committees
were constituted. Hence, statement 2 is
correct.
4. These were known as variyams
a. For example Tottavariyam, Ponnavariyam.
Udasikavarii, etc
b. These committees looked after different
works assigned to them
5. It is through these committees that village
assembly was performing various
functions
a. It had a lot of duties to fulfil such as,
collection of land revenue, reclamation of
barren land, development of roads and
orchards, supervising the purity of gold,
etc
b. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
85. What are the eligibility criterias for becoming
a member of the various committees
constituted in the Village under the Chola
State ?
1. The person contesting should possess
some land
2. The person contesting should have his
own house
3. The person contesting should age
between 18 years and 60 years
4. The person contesting should have
knowledge of Vedic Mantras
Select the correct answer using the code given
below :
1. 1,2 and 3 2. 1,2 and 4
3. 2,3 and 4 4. 1,3 and 4
AMIGOS IAS
Answer: 2
Explanation:
1. For the membership of the committees
some eligibility criteria was set.
2. for example
a. the person should possess some land,
b. he should have his own house,
c. they should have knowledge of Vedic
Mantras.Hence, statements 1,2 and 4 are
correct.
d. their age should be between 35 years and
70 years. Hence, statement 3 is incorrect.
There were some ineligibility criteria as
well.
1. Firstly, no one could be elected as a
member of a committee for four
consecutive years.
2. Secondly, it was imperative for them to
present their account of income and
expenditure prior to their candidature.
3. The candidate should not have the charge
of theft against him
4. Lastly, he should not have been involved
into any sort of crime
86. Which Sultan of Delhi interfered in the Iqta
Administration to the Maximum extent ?
1. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq
2. Balban
3. Firoz Shah Tughlaq
4. Alauddin Khalji
Answer: 1
Explanation:
1. Balban started to appoint an officer
Khwaja in order to supervise the income
and expenditure of the iqta.
2. Allauddin Khilji increased the interference
of central administration into Iqta
administration
3. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq in order to protect
the interest of Soldiers in Iqta brought a
provision that the salary of the soldiers in
Iqtas should have been separated from
the personal salary of Muqtis
4. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq started
maximum interference into Iqta
administration
87. In the context of Zabat revenue assessment
system under Akbar, consider the following
statements :
30
 1. Akbar promulgated a schedule of rates for
smaller units called Dasturs
2. Every Dastur has its own schedule which
represented the average price prevailing
in the area
3. Under it the unit of measurement was
named Bigha-i-Ilahi
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Zabat system of assessment
88.
1. Akbar promulgated a schedule of rates
calculated in cash per bigha for every crop
in 1570 CE, not for the entire empire but
for smaller units called 'Dasturs'.
2. Every assessment circle had its own
schedule which represented the average
price prevailing in the area presumably
during the previous 10 years. It was
implemented in the 15th to 24th years of
his reign.
3. It was necessary, to implement the
schedule, to have accurate measurement
of land and its proper classification.
4. The mode of measurement was modified
and replaced by bamboos joined together
by iron-rings (jarib).
5. The unit of measurement was named
Bigha-i-Ilahi which corresponded to 0.59%
of an acre.
6. The statistics of later years however used
the "Bigha-i-Daftari" which was 2/3rd of
Bigha-i-Ilahi.
a. The measurement modification was
introduced in his 19th regnal year.
7. All these innovations were an integral part
of the Zabat system, a name probably
derived from the use of jarib.
8. The Zabat system facilitated rechecking of
measurement, control of arbitrary local
officials due to fixation of revenue and
elimination of uncertainties and
fluctuations of levying the actual demand.
9. The Zabat system was not without its own
peculiar faults.
AMIGOS IAS
a. The absence of modern technique and
the vastness of the Empire made the task
of accomplishment of assessment a task
of gigantic magnitude, very difficult to
accomplish, expensive and time
consuming.
b. Further no guarantee that correct entries
were made could be provided.
c. A prerequisite which was inherently
restricted, made its implementation, quite
dubious, was the very nature of the
system which required the soil to be of
uniform quality
Hence, all the statements are correct.
Consider the following statements about Iqta
System:
1. The turkish rulers introduced it as the
revenue assignment
2. It became the tool for centralisation under
the sultanate
3. The holder of it came to be known as
Muqti
4. The muqti was to collect the revenue and
to meet his expenditure from a part of it
and the rest of the amount was to be
deposited to the royal treasury.
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. Only three 4. All four
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Iqta system in India-
1. In India, Turkish rulers introduced iqta
system as the revenue assignment
2. When Turkish rule was established in
northern India one important challenge
before the state was to collect revenue
while suppressing a large number of Hindu
nobles in such a vast region.
3. In fact it was not practically feasible for a
sultan to create military pressure on
Hindu nobles in such a vast region from
Multan to Lakhnauti
4. Later, the Iqta and Kharaj system became
the tool for centralisation under the state
5. It became a very efficient instrument for
collecting the revenue from the remote
areas and to ensure the production
31
 surplus from the far off regions to the
royal treasury.
6. Larger iqtas like provincial iqtas were
created and were given to important
nobles in the form of revenue assignment.
7. The holder of Iqtas came to be known as
Muqti or Wali
8. The muqti was supposed to collect the
revenue and to meet the administrative
and military expenditure from a part of it
and the rest of the amount was deposited
to the royal treasury.
9. The post of the Muqti was not hereditary
but transferable.
10. In this way through the Iqta system a
compromise was made between the
interest of the state and the ambition of
the nobles.
11. The distribution of iqta first started under
Muhammad Ghori when he provided the
iqta of Hansi to Qutubudin Aibak.
12. But for regularising iqta system the credit
is given to Iltutmish
13. It is said that he divided a vast region
between Multan and Lakhnauti into
different nobles and distributed them
among different nobles
14. But very beginning it was a big challenge
to sultan to have a proper control over
iqta administration and to have a check
over the ambition of Muqti
Hence, all the statements are correct
89. Consider the following statements about
Mansabdari System:
1. It was an administrative and strategic
device which was aimed at efficient
organisation of both nobility and army
2. It was the outcome of an attempt to
combine exact indications of rank and
payment of military obligations of the
holder of the mansab
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct ?
1. 1 only 2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: 3
Explanation:
Mansabdari System:
AMIGOS IAS
1. The Mansabdari system, as initiated by
Akbar, was basically an administrative-
strategic device which was aimed at an
efficient organisation of the nobility and
the army
2. In Fact it can well be understood in
context of the requirements of a
centralised state.
3. The potential energy of an otherwise
turbulent nobility needed to be
channelised and for strategic imperatives,
a vigorous disciplined and efficient army
was needed
4. It was the outcome of an attempt to
combine, into a pair of numbers (zat and
sawar numbers), exact indications of rank,
payment of military and other obligations
of the holder of the mansab.
5. Every officer serving in the army and
every official in the bureaucracy was given
a mansab or a pair of mansabs (zat and
sawar) upon appointment
6. Although modifications in the system
were made from time to time, this
remained the basic structure as long as
the empire held together.
Hence, both the statements are correct
90. Which Mughal Emperor gave the executive
and financial powers in a Jagir to different
persons ?
1. Akbar 2. Jahangir
3. Aurangazeb 4. Sher Shah
Answer: 1
Explanation:
Before the Jagirdari system, the wajhdar
system prevailed.
○ Under wajhdar, a territory was assigned to
a person with a fixed salary and with
executive and financial powers.
○ Under Jagirdari, there was no fixed
income and the executive and financial
powers were given to different persons
91. Match List-I(Types of Jagirs) with List
II(Meaning) and select the correct answer
using the codes given below the lists:
List I List II
1. Jagir-i-Tankwa A. Given as a gift
2. Mashrut Jagir B. In Lieu of salary.
3. Inam Jagir C. Hereditary Jagir
32
 4. Watan Jagir D. Temporary Jagir 5. A jagirdar had to incur all his expenses and
Codes: salary from his jagir. Hence,statement 2 is
1. 1-C, 2-A, 3-D, 4-B 2. 1-A, 2-C, 3-B, 4-D correct
3. 1-D, 2-B, 3-C, 4-A 4. 1-B, 2-D, 3-A, 4-C 6. Therefore, the jagir was the major source
Answer: 4 of income for jagirdars.
Explanation: 7. The system of jagirdari was refined under
Akbar.
There were four different kinds of Jagirs:
8. The jagir allotted to a jagirdar or
1. Jagir-i-Tankwa or Rupee jagir - jagir in lieu
mansabdar was not hereditary, and jagirs
of salary.
were transferable. Hence, statement 3 is
2. Mashrut Jagir - it was a temporary jagir
incorrect
given to a mansabdar of high ranking.
9. Jagirdars were often transferred in three
3. Inam Jagir - given as a gift or charity with
years.
no obligation and was tax free
10. No jagir was given to the same person for
4. Watan Jagir - A zamindar or a ruler when
a long time.
enrolled in the mansabdari system, his
11. Historians regard the mansab and jagir
territory was considered as a watan Jagir.
system as the "steel frame" of the Mughal
This type of jagir was hereditary but
state.
required the imperial sanction for the
succession. In 1679, Aurangzeb did not
approve the succession to Jodhpur and
converted the Jodhpur territory into a
Khalsa land or imperial land.

92. Consider the following statements about

Jagirdari System: 93. With reference to the Iqta Administration
1. The Jagirdari were the land revenue under Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq, consider the
assignment given to Mansabdars in lieu of following statements:
services 1. He appointed Muqti who was accountable
2. A jagirdar had to incur all his expenses and for collection of revenue
salary from his jagir 2. He appointed Wali-ul-Kharaj who was
3. The jagir allotted to a mansabdar was accountable for general administration
hereditary 3. He appointed Amil in order to supervise
Which of the statements given above are the account.
correct ? Which of the statements given above are
1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3 correct ?
3. 2 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3 1. Only one 2. Only two
Answer: 1 3. All three 4. None of the above
Explanation: Answer: 1
Jagirdari System Explanation:
1. Mansabdars receiving cash payments 1. He continued to appoint two officers of
were known as Naqdi. equivalent status in a single Iqta.
2. The Jagirs were allocated to Mansabdars a. One was Muqti who was accountable for
of higher ranks. general administration and another was
3. The jagirs were the land revenue Wali-ul-Kharaj who was accountable for
assignment given to Mansabdars in lieu of collection of revenue.Hence,statements 1
services. Hence,statement 1 is correct and 2 are incorrect
4. The assignees of Jagir were known as 2. He brought a new provision according to
Jagirdars. which all the revenue from provinces

AMIGOS IAS 33
 would be brought directly to the central
treasury.
a. Then the salary of the officers of provinces
was to be given from the royal treasury
directly.
b. It was definitely a very big step in the
direction of administrative centralisation.
3. An officer known as Amil was appointed in
iqtas in order to supervise the account.
Hence, statement 3 is correct
4. It was due to this step for centralisation
by Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq that a series
of revolts took place against him
94. The Mughal coinage was the creation of
1. Akbar 2. Shahjahan
3. Sher Shah Suri 4. Jahangir
Answer: 3
Explanation:
UNIFORM COINAGE
1. Another significant aspect of Mughal
administration was the Mughal coinage
system.
2. The Mughal established and consolidated
a uniform system of coinage throughout
the empire.
3. The coins of Mughals lasted till the 20th
century.
4. Mughal coinage was the creation of Sher
Shah Suri.
96.
a. He issued silver Rupiya that weighed 178
grains and was the precursor of the
modern rupee.
5. Mughal coins were characterised by the
system of tri-metalism. These were:
a. Silver Rupiya, weighing 178 grains
b. Gold coins, known as Mohur weighing 169
grains
c. Copper coins, called Dam.
6. Mughal coins were known for their
excellent designs and ornamentation.
7. During Jahangir's time, Mughal coinage
reached its greatest height
95. Who among the following Historians termed
the Mughal State as a Gunpowder State ?
1. Irfan Habib
2. Satish Chandra
3. Meena Bhargavi
4. Hodgson and McNeil
AMIGOS IAS
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Military and Gunpowder State
1. Historians view the Mughal state as a
military state.
a. Military was central to the Mughal
administrative structure.
b. There was no division of civil and military
functions under the Mughal state.
c. Mughals had a vast military
establishment, comprising of a central
army, Mansabdari army and armies drawn
from chiefs.
2. Historian Hodgson and McNeil termed the
Mughal state a Gunpowder Em- pire.
a. These historians argue that Mughals were
able to establish their rule in India with the
help of artillery and firearm technology.
b. This view has been criticised by scholar
Douglass Streisand, who points out that in
spite of advanced firearm technology and
artillery, the Mughals could capture strong
forts like Chittor and Ranthambore only
after prolonged and difficult sieges.
3. In the 16th century, the Ottoman empire,
the Safavid empire and the Mughal
empire were termed as Gunpowder
empires for their extensive use of
advanced firearms and cannons in military
Consider the following pairs :
Nature of Mughals State Historians
1. Bureaucratic state Percival
Spear
2. Centralised State Stephen P.
Blake
3. Patrimonial Bureaucratic Athar Ali
State
How many of the above pairs are correctly
matched ?
1. 1 only 2. 2 and 3
3. 1 and 3 4. 3 only
Answer: 1
Explanation:
Bureaucratic State
1. Historians like Percival Spear, Qureshi and
A.L. Srivastava has stated that the Mughal
state was based on an elaborate
bureaucratic structure organised through
the mansabdari system.
34
 2. Every official of the Mughal state was a
mansabdar, having rank and
responsibility.
3. This view is countered on the ground that
although the Mughal state had
bureaucratic structure, it cannot be called
a bureaucratic state.
4. Bureaucracy is a modern phenomenon in
which selection is merit-based, there is
segregation of functions and a fixed
payroll.
5. In the Mughal state, officials owned their
loyalty to the emperor and not the state.
6. There was no segregation of civil and
military duties, and salaries were paid
both in cash and in jagir.
The Mughal as a Centralized State
1. Many historians like Prof. Habib, Athar Ali
and others hold the view that the Mughal
state was a highly centralised state.
2. The efficient working of the Institutions
like mansabdari, Jagirdari, land revenue
system, and uniform coinage system led
to the centralization of the administrative
and political structure.
3. The mansabdari institution was the
backbone of the empire and provided a
centralised bureaucratic structure.
4. The extent to which the Mughal empire
was centralised in practice is a matter of
debate.
5. In its remote provinces, the Mughal
centralised structure was less effective.
6. However, theoretically, the Mughal
administrative structure was highly
centralised and bureaucratic.
Mughal as a Patrimonial Bureaucratic State
1. While accepting the Mughals as a
centralised state, historian Stephen P.
Blake added that it was a Patrimonial
Bureaucratic State.
2. In such a state, the ruler operates as an
extension of the royal household and on
the basis of a patriarchal model.
3. Patrimonial-bureaucratic state is centred
on royalty, in which the personal ties
between the ruler and the subordinates
played a crucial role.
AMIGOS IAS
4. Stephen Blake argues that the Mughal
state was an extension of the royal
household.
5. They inherited the state as a patrimony
and then ruled through an elaborate
bureaucratic machinery.
6. The ruler was a father figure and
possessed unlimited power.
7. The army consisted of royal household
troops.
8. The bureaucracy, administrative officials
were mere banda-i dargah or slaves of the
court.
9. The entire administrative establishment
was integrated to imperial household
97. In the context of Timuri-Turko-Mongol
Theory of Sovereignty, consider the following
statements:
1. Babur’s polity was based on the concepts
of absolute sovereignty and centralised
state structure.
2. Babur assumed the title of Sultan
3. The Mongol tradition of dividing the
empire was rejected by Mughal emperors
from the times of Babur
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. All three 4. None of the above
Answer: 1
Explanation:
Timuri-Turko-Mongol Theory of Sovereignty
and Kingship
1. Historians like R.P. Tripathi are of the
opinion that the Mughals followed their
ancestors Timuri and Turko-Mongol or
Chagatai's legacy of sovereignty and
kingship.
2. The Timuri and Turko-Mongol polity was
based on the concepts of absolute
sovereignty, the equal division of empire
among sons and centralised state
structure. Hence, statement 1 is correct
3. Babur adopted the same principles of
polity.
4. He set the precedent of absolute
sovereignty followed by Timuri polity.
5. He assumed the title of 'Padshah',
meaning 'emperor' and not Sultan or
35
 deputy of the Caliph. Hence, statement 2 4. Building Material
is incorrect a. Brick, lime plaster and mortar started to
6. It showed the absolute sovereignty and be used for constructions.
royal dignity of the Mughal emperor. Trabeate Style
7. Babur in his memoirs mentions, 'up to that 1. Entrance
date people had styled Taimur Beg's a. Characterised by the use of Lintel.
descendants as 'Mirza', even when they 2. Top
were ruling, now I ordered that people
a. The use of shikhara on top of the temples.
should style me 'Padshah'.'
They were generally conical or curvilinear.
8. Babur's legacy was followed by the rest of
3. Minar
the Mughal rulers.
a. Minars were absent.
9. Babur did not follow the Mongol tradition
4. Building Material
of dividing the empire among kith and kin.
a. Stone was the primary component of all
10. Humayun revived this tradition but failed
constructions.
miserably. Hence, statement 3 is
incorrect 99. Which of the following techniques were
introduced by the Muslim rulers of India ?
11. Humayun, by dividing the empire among
his brothers, lost his sovereignty and 1. The Charbagh style of gardening
suffered throughout his life. 2. The Arabesque method
12. This tradition was therefore rejected by 3. The use of foreshortening techniques
other Mughal emperors. Select the correct answer using the codes
13. This view has been criticised by historians given below:
like Iqtadar Alam Khan, who ar- gues that 1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
sovereignty and authority was not vested 3. 2 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3
in the emperor but in the royal family. Answer: 4
14. Though the Mughals were ethnically Turk, Explanation:
from the time of Akbar there was a Refer the explanation of Q 101
movement away from the Chagatai 100. The double domes in architectural buildings
tradition. was introduced by
98. Which of the following is not a feature of the 1. Slave Dynasty 2. Khilji Dynasty
Arcuate style of architecture ?
3. Tughlaq Dynasty 4. Lodi Dynasty
1. Characterised by the use of arches and
Answer: 4
domes.
Explanation:
2. The use of domes
Lodi Dynasty:
3. Minars were absent
1. Under the Lodi dynasty, architecture
4. Brick, lime plaster and mortar are used for
continued to take a back seat.
constructions
2. Only tombs were commissioned during
Answer: 3
this period.
Explanation:
3. However, one important feature of
Arcuate style of architecture architecture during this period was the
1. Entrance introduction of double domes.
a. Characterised by the use of arches and 4. It consisted of a hollow dome inside the
domes. top dome
2. Top 5. The reasons for the use of double domes
a. The use of domes, generally were:
hemispherical, on top of the mosques. a. To give strength to the structure, and
3. Minar b. To lower the inner height of the dome.
a. Minars were present on the four corners
of the mosques.

AMIGOS IAS 36
 6. The tombs built during this phase were
hard and bare, without any lavish
decorations.
7. They were built in octagonal shapes, with
a diameter of roughly 15 metres.
8. They were supported by a sloping
verandah.
9. Example: Lodi Gardens, the city of Agra
was established by Sikandar Lodi, etc.
101. Which of the following are the features of
Indo-Islamic architecture ?
1. The Trabeate style of architecture was
replaced by the Arcuate style of
architecture
2. Mortar was used as a cementing agent
3. Avoided the use of human and animal
figures.
4. Use of calligraphy as means of decoration
Select the correct answer using the codes
given below:
1. 1,2 and 3 2. 2,3 and 4
3. 1,3 and 4 4. All of the above
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Some of the features of Indo-Islamic
architecture are given as follows:
1. The use of arches and domes gained
prominence during this period. It was
known as the 'Arcuate' style of
architecture and replaced the traditional
Trabeate style of architecture.
2. The Islamic rulers introduced the use of
minars around the mosques and the
mausoleums.
3. Mortar was used as a cementing agent in
their constructions.
4. The Indo-Islamic architecture avoided the
use of human and animal figures.
102.
5. While the Hindu architecture had become
too congested, the Indo-Islamic
architecture introduced spaciousness,
massiveness and breadth to it
6. While the previous structures used
sculptures as means of decoration, the
Indo-Islamic architecture used calligraphy
as means of decoration.
7. The Arabesque method was also used for
decoration.
AMIGOS IAS
a. Arabesque meant the use of geometrical
vegetal ornamentation and was
characterised by a continuous stem which
split regularly, producing a series of
counterpoised, leafy, secondary stems.
b. The secondary stems, in turn, split again or
returned to merge with the main stem
creating a decorative pattern.
8. The architecture of this period heavily
used the principles of geometry from
decorative pattern to imbibing a sense of
symmetry.
9. The buildings had intricate jali works,
which signifies the importance of light in
Islamic religion.
10. An important feature of the architecture
during this period was the use of water in
the premises of the constructions in the
form of courtyard pools, fountains and
small drains.
a. Water was used primarily for three
purposes-
i. Religious purpose
ii. To cool the premises
iii. Decorative purpose
11. The Islamic rulers introduced the
Charbagh style of gardening, in which a
square block was divided into four
adjacent identical gardens.
12. The architectures of these times also used
the pietra-dura technique for inlay of
precious coloured stones and gems into
the walls for decoration.
13. Another unique feature was the use of
foreshortening techniques in the
buildings, such that the inscriptions
appear to be closer than they really are.
Hence, all the statements are correct.
Which of the following pairs is matched
correctly?
Dynasty Architectural Style
1. Slave dynasty Mamluk style
2. Khilji Dynasty Seljuk style
3. Tughlaq Dynasty Batter style
Codes:
1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 3 4.1,2 and 3
Answer: 4
Explanation:
37
 Slave dynasty: characterised by sloping walls to give
1. The Slave dynasty or the Ilbari dynasty more strength to the building.
remained in power from 1206 to 1290 AD. 15. Examples: Cities of Tughlaqabad,
2. During this period, the style of Jahanpanah and Firozabad.
architecture came to be known as the 103. Which of the following constructions is not
Mameluke style of architecture associated with the Slave Dynasty ?
3. During this period, most of the 1. Qutub Minar
constructions were remodellings of the 2. Jahanpanah
existing Hindu structures. 3. Adhai-din-ka-Jhonpra
4. They also started the erection of a number 4. Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque
of monuments, Qutub Minar being a Answer: 2
prime example.
Explanation:
a. It is a five-storey structure initiated by
Refer the explanation of Q 102
Qutb-ud-din Aibak, who made only the
104. The use of 'Tudor arch' in India was started by
ground floor.
1. Akbar 2. Sher Shah
b. The next three storeys were completed by
Iltutmish and the fifth storey was made by 3. Shahjahan 4. Jahangir
Feroze Shah Tughlaq. Answer: 1
c. Other Examples: Explanation:
i. Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque in the Qutub Akbar:
Minar premises which was converted  Akbar took a keen interest in the
from a Jain temple development of art and architecture. The
ii. Adhai-din-ka-Jhopra in Ajmer principal feature of the constructions
Khilji Dynasty: during Akbar's reign was the use of red
5. They ruled from 1290 AD to 1320 AD and sandstone. He also introduced the use of
established the Seljuk style of 'Tudor arch' (four centred arch).
architecture.
6. The constructions of this period were
marked by the use of red sandstone. 105. Sishupalavadhana was written by
7. Also, the prominence of Arcuate style 1. Bharavi 2. Kalidasa
began from this period. 3. Magha 4. Jayadeva
8. Mortar began to be used prominently in Answer: 3
all the constructions as a cementing agent. Explanation:
9. Examples: Alai Darwaza by Ala-ud-din Sishupalavadhana, the killing of Sishupala was
Khilji, Siri Fort, etc. written by Magha
Tughlaq Dynasty: 106. Consider the following buildings:
10. It was the crisis period for architecture 1. Buland Darwaza
during the Delhi Sultanate period. 2. Panch Mahal
11. However, some construction works were 3. Salim Chishti's tomb
still undertaken, which used grey 4. Ibadat Khana
sandstone. 5. Jodha Bai's Palace
12. During this period, the focus was more on Which of the above are located in Fatehpur
the strength of the building and so there Sikri ?
was less emphasis on decoration.
1. 1,2,4 and 5 2. 2,3,4 and 5
13. The constructions combined both arch
3. 2,3 and 5 4. All of the above
and lintel method of entrance design.
Answer: 4
14. They also introduced a style of
construction known as "batter" which was Explanation:
Fatehpur Sikri

AMIGOS IAS 38
  One of the highlights of Indo-Islamic
architecture was the creation of a new
capital city by Akbar at Fatehpur Sikri. It
has been described as a “frozen moment
in history” as the buildings here represent
a unique blend of Hindu and Persian
styles.
Some of the important buildings inside the
city are:
1. Buland Darwaza the imposing 40 metre
red sandstone structure was built in 1576
AD, to commemorate Akbar's victory over
Gujarat. It is the highest gateway of the
world.
2. Salim Chishti's tomb was built in 1581 AD.
It has beautiful Jaali work in white marble.
It has arabesque patterns with inscriptions
of Quranic verses on the walls. It is in the
imperial complex which also has Buland
Darwaza and Jama Masjid. It was further
decorated by Jahangir in 1606 AD.
3. Panch Mahal is a five-storied structure
made of columns and is inspired by the
concept of Persian badgir (wind-catcher).
4. Jodha Bai's Palace or Mariam-uz-Zamani's
Palace (Mary of the Age) has beautiful
interiors with Hindu motifs of bell and
flowers.
5. Ibadat Khana: Akbar used to meet the
leaders of different religions here to have
discussion.
6. Pachisi Court in the courtyard where
Akbar is said to have played chess.
7. Hiran Minar was built in memory of
Akbar's favourite elephant, named Hiran.
It also served as a lighthouse for travellers.
It is uniquely designed and its exterior wall
contains tusk-like spikes.
Akbar also built a temple of Govind Dev in
Vrindavan
Hence, all the statements are correct.
107. Consider the following pairs :
Princely State Means of Integration
1. Hyderabad Police action
2. Junagarh Referendum
3. Kashmir Instrument of Accession
Which of the pairs above are correctly
matched ?
1. 1 and 2 2. 2 and 3
AMIGOS IAS
3. 1 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3
Answer: 4
Explanation:
1. At the time of independence, India
comprised two categories of political
units, namely, the British provinces (under
the direct rule of British govern- ment)
and the princely states (under the rule of
na- tive princes but subject to the
paramountcy of the British Crown).
2. The Indian Independence Act (1947)
created two independent and separate
dominions of India and Pakistan and gave
three options to the princely states viz.,
joining India, joining Pakistan or remaining
independent.
3. Of the 552 princely states situated within
the geographical boundaries of In- dia,
549 joined India and the remaining 3
(Hyderabad, Junagarh and Kashmir)
refused to join India.
4. However, in course of time, they were also
integrated with India-Hyderabad by
means of police action, Junagarh by
means of referendum and Kashmir by the
Instrument of Accession.
108. Consider the following statements:
1. The original Constitution contained a four-
fold classification of the states
2. Part-A states consisted of nine erstwhile
princely states with legislatures
3. Part-B states comprised nine erstwhile
governor's provinces of British India
4. Part-C states consisted of erstwhile chief
commissioner's provinces of British India
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. Only three 4. All four
Answer: 2
Explanation:
 In 1950, the Constitution contained a four-
fold classification of the states of the
Indian Union-Part A, Part B, Part C and
Part D States. Hence, statement 1 is
correct. In all, they numbered 29. Part-A
states comprised nine erstwhile
39
 governor's provinces of British India. Part-
B states consisted of nine erstwhile
princely states with legislatures. Hence,
statements 2 and 3 are incorrect. Part-C
states consisted of erstwhile chief
commissioner's provinces of British India
of the erstwhile princely states. Hence,
statement 4 is correct These Part-C states
(in all 10 in number) were centrally
administered. The Andaman and Nicobar
Islands were kept as the solitary Part-D
state.
109. The chairman of first Linguistic Provinces
Commission was
1. S K Dhar
2. Jawaharlal Nehru
3. Vallahbhai Patel
4. Pattabhi Sitaramayya
Answer: 1
Explanation:
1. The integration of princely states with the
rest of India has purely an ad hoc
arrangement.
2. There has been a demand from different
regions, particularly South India, for
reorganisation of states on linguistic basis.
3. Accordingly, in June 1948, the
Government of India appointed the
Linguistic Provinces Commission under
the chairmanship of SK Dhar to examine
the feasibility of this.
a. The commission submitted its report in
December 1948 and recommended the
reorganisation of states on the basis of
administrative convenience rather than
linguistic factor.
4. This created much resentment and led to
the appointment of another Linguistic
Provinces Committee by the Congress in
December 1948 itself to examine the
whole question afresh.
a. It consisted of Jawaharlal Nehru,
Vallahbhai Patel and Pattabhi Sitaramayya
and hence, was popularly known as JVP
Committee.
b. It submitted its report in April 1949 and
formally rejected language as the basis for
reorganisation of states.
110. Who among the following is known as the
“Mercator of Modern India” ?
AMIGOS IAS
1. Jawaharlal Nehru 2. Vallahbhai Patel
3. Potti Sriramulu 4. Swamy Sainath
Answer: 3
Explanation:
1. In October 1953, the Government of India
was forced to create the first linguistic
state, known as Andhra state, by
separating the Telugu speaking areas from
the Madras state.
2. This followed a prolonged popular
agitation and the death of Potti Sriramulu,
a Congress person of standing, after a 56-
day hunger strike for the cause.
3. In many ways, Sriramulu was the man who
lit the fire which led to the subsequent
reorganisation of the country.
4. Thus, Ramachandra Guha in his book India
After Gandhi points out, "If Jawaharlal
Nehru was the maker of modern India,
then perhaps Potti Sriramulu should be
named its Mercator.
111. Who among the following is not a member of
the states reorganisation Commission ?
1. K M Panikkar
2. H N Kunzru
3. Pattabhi Sitaramayya
4. Fazl Ali
Answer: 3
Explanation:
1. The creation of Andhra state intensified
the demand from other regions for
creation of states on linguistic basis.
2. This forced the Government of India to
appoint (in December 1953) a three-
member States Reorganisation
Commission under the chairmanship of
Fazl Ali to re-examine the whole question.
3. Its other two members were K M Panikkar
and H N Kunzru.
4. It submitted its report in September 1955
and broadly accepted language as the
basis of reorganisation of states.
5. But, it rejected the theory of one
language- one state.
6. Its view was that the unity of India should
be regarded as the primary consideration
in any redrawing of the country's political
units.
40
 7. It identified four major factors that can be
taken into account in any scheme of
reorganisation of states:
a. Preservation and strengthening of the
unity and security of the country.
b. Linguistic and cultural homogeneity.
c. Financial, economic and administrative
considerations.
d. Planning and promotion of the welfare of
the people in each state as well as of the
nation as a whole.
8. The commission suggested the abolition
of the four-fold classification of states
under the original Constitution and
creation of 16 states and 3 centrally
administered territories.
9. The Government of India accepted these
recommendations with certain minor
modifications.
10. By the States Reorganisation Act (1956)
and the 7th Constitutional Amendment
Act (1956), the distinction between Part-A
and Part-B states was done away with and
Part-C states were abolished.
11. Some of them were merged with adjacent
states and some others were designated
as union territories.
12. As a result, 14 states and 6 union
territories were created on November 1,
1956.
112. With reference to the recommendations of
states reorganisation Commission (SRC),
consider the following statements:
1. It accepted language as the basis of
reorganisation of states
2. It rejected the theory of one language, one
state
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct ?
1. 1 only 2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: 3
Explanation:
Refer the explanation of Q 109
113. Which of the following states/UT’s were
created as a result of the states
reorganisation act, 1956 ?
1. Kerala
2. Andhra Pradesh
AMIGOS IAS
3. Gujarat
4. Laccadive, Minicoy and Amindivi Islands
Select the correct answer using the codes
given below:
1. 1,2 and 3 2. 1,2 and 4
3. 1,3 and 4 4. 2,3 and 4
Answer: 2
Explanation:
1. The States Reorganisation Act of 1956
established the new state of Kerala by
merging the Travancore - Cochin State
with the Malabar District of Madras state
and Kasargod of South Canara (Dakshina
Kannada).
2. It merged the Telugu-speaking areas of
Hyderabad state with the Andhra state to
create the Andhra Pradesh state.
3. Further, it merged the Madya Bharat
state, Vindya Pradesh state and Bhopal
state into the Madhya Pradesh state.
4. Similarly, it merged the Saurashtra state
and Kutch state into that of the Bombay
state, the Coorg state into that of Mysore
state
5. the Patiala and East Punjab States Union
(Pepsu) into that of Punjab state; and the
Ajmer state into that of Rajasthan state.
6. Moreover, it created the new union
territory of Laccadive, Minicoy and
Amindivi Islands from the territory
detached from the Madras state.
Maharashtra and Gujarat
1. In 1960, the bilingual state of Bombay was
divided into two separate states-
Maharashtra for Marathi-speaking people
and Gujarat for Gujarati-speaking people.
2. Gujarat was established as the 15th state
of the Indian Union. Hence,statement 3 is
incorrect.
114. Which of the following states has been
acquired by India by means of a Police
action?
1. Goa 2. Puducherry
3. Sikkim 4. Arunachal Pradesh
Answer: 1
Explanation:
Goa, Daman and Diu
41
 1. India acquired these three territories from
the Portuguese by means of a police
action in 1961.
2. They were constituted as a union territory
by the 12th Constitutional Amendment
Act, 1962.
3. Later, in 1987, Goa was conferred a
statehood.
4. Consequently, Daman and Diu was made
a separate union territory
115. Arrange the following states in correct
chronological order of their formation:
1. Maharashtra-Haryana-Chhattisgarh-
Mizoram
2. Maharashtra-Haryana-Mizoram-
Chhattisgarh
3. Chhattisgarh-Haryana-Mizoram-
Maharashtra
4. Haryana-Mizoram-Chhattisgarh-
Maharashtra
Answer:2
Explanation:
Maharashtra and Gujarat
 In 1960, the bilingual state of Bombay was
divided into two separate states-
116.
Maharashtra for Marathi-speaking people
and Gujarat for Gujarati-speaking people.
Gujarat was established as the 15th state
of the Indian Union.
Haryana, Chandigarh and Himachal Pradesh
1. In 1966, the State of Punjab was
bifurcated to create Haryana, the 17th
state of the Indian Union, and the union
territory of Chandigarh.
2. This followed the demand for a separate
'Sikh Homeland' (Punjabi Subha) raised by
the Akali Dal under the leadership of
Master Tara Singh.
3. On the recommendation of the Shah
Commission (1966), the punjabi-speaking
areas were constituted into the unilingual
state of Punjab, the Hindi-speaking areas
were constituted into the State of Haryana
and the hill areas were merged with the
adjoining union territory of Himachal
Pradesh.
4. In 1971, the union territory of Himachal
Pradesh was elevated to the status of a
state (18th state of the Indian Union).
AMIGOS IAS
Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Goa
1. In 1987, three new States of Mizoram,
Arunachal Pradesh and Goa came into
being as the 23rd, 24th and 25th states of
the Indian Union respectively.
2. The Union Territory of Mizoram was
conferred the status of a full state as a
sequel to the signing of a memorandum of
settlement (Mizoram Peace Ac- cord) in
1986 between the Central government
and the Mizo National Front, ending the
two-decade-old insurgency.
3. Arunachal Pradesh had also been a union
territory from 1972.
4. The State of Goa was created by
separating the territory of Goa from the
Union Territory of Goa, Daman and Diu.
Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand and Jharkhand
1. In 2000, three more new States of
Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand and Jharkhand
were created out of the territories of
Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar
respectively.
2. These became the 26th, 27th and 28th
states of the Indian Union respectively.
Consider the following statements about
Communal Award:
1. It was announced by Clement Attlee
2. It extended separate electorates for the
the depressed classes
3. Gandhi undertook fast unto death to get
the award modified
4. Poona Pact gave reserved seats to the
depressed classes
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. 1,2 and 3 2. 1,3 and 4
3. 2,3 and 4 4. All of the above
Answer: 3
Explanation:
Communal Award
1. In August 1932, Ramsay MacDonald, the
British Prime Minister, announced a
scheme of representation of the
minorities, which came to be known as the
Communal Award. Hence, statement 1 is
incorrect
2. The award not only continued separate
electorates for the Muslims, Sikhs, Indian
42
 Christians, Anglo-Indians and Europeans
but also extended it to the depressed
classes (scheduled castes). Hence,
statement 2 is correct
3. Gandhiji was distressed over this
extension of the principle of communal
representation to the depressed classes
and undertook fast unto death in Yerwada
Jail (Poona) to get the award modified.
Hence, statement 3 is correct
4. At last, there was an agreement between
the leaders of the Congress and the
depressed classes.
5. The agreement, known as Poona Pact,
retained the Hindu joint electorate and
gave reserved seats to the depressed
classes. Hence, statement 4 is correct
117. Consider the following statements :
Statement-I :
The All India Federation established by
Government of India act, 1935 is known as
Paper Federation
Statement-II :
The princely states did not join the All India
Federation
Which of the following is correct in respect of
the above statements ?
1. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are
correct and Statement-II is the correct
explanation for Statement-I
2. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are
correct and Statement-II is not the correct
explanation for Statement-I
3. Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is
incorrect.
4. Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is
correct.
Answer: 1
Explanation:
Government of India Act of 1935
 The Act marked a second milestone
towards a completely responsible
government in India. It was a lengthy and
detailed document having 321 Sections
and 10 Schedules.
Features of the Act
1. It provided for the establishment of an All-
India Federation consisting of provinces
and princely states as units.
AMIGOS IAS
2. The Act divided the powers between the
Centre and units in terms of three lists:
Federal List (for Centre, with 59 items),
Provincial List (for provinces, with 54
items) and the Concurrent List (for both,
with 36 items).
3. Residuary powers were given to the
Viceroy.
4. However, the federation never came into
being as the princely states did not join it.
a. For this reason it is known as Paper
Federation
118. Consider the following statements about
Government of India act, 1935 :
1. It abolished dyarchy in the provinces
2. The provinces were allowed to act as
autonomous units of administration in
their defined spheres
3. It introduced responsible governments in
provinces
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. All three 4. None of the above
Answer: 3
Explanation:
1. It abolished dyarchy in the provinces and
introduced provincial autonomy in its
place.
2. The provinces were allowed to act as
autonomous units of administration in
their defined spheres.
3. Moreover, the Act introduced responsible
governments in provinces, that is, the
governor was required to act with the
advice of ministers responsible to the
provincial legislature.
4. This came into effect in 1937 and was
discontinued in 1939.
Hence, all the statements are correct.
119. The Council of India established by the
Government of India Act of 1858 was
abolished by
1. Indian councils act,1892
2. Indian councils act,1909
3. Government of India act, 1919
4. Government of India act, 1935
Answer: 4
Explanation:
43
  The Government of India act, 1935
abolished the Council of India, established
by the Government of India Act of 1858.
The secretary of state for India was
provided with a team of advisors
120. Which of the following institutions were
estabilised by the Government of India act,
1935 ?
1. Reserve Bank of India
2. Federal Public Service Commission
3. Provincial Public Service Commission
4. Federal Court
Select the correct answer using the code given
below:
1. 1,2 and 3 2. 1,2 and 4
3. 1,3 and 4 4. All of the above
Answer: 4
Explanation:
1. It provided for the establishment of a
Reserve Bank of India to control the
currency and credit of the country.
2. It provided for the establishment of not
only a Federal Public Service Commission
but also a Provincial Public Service
Commission and Joint Public Service
Commission for two or more provinces.
3. It provided for the establishment of a
Federal Court, which was set up in 1937.
Hence, all the statements are correct.
121. The Partition of India was announced by
1. Clement Atlee
2. Ramsay Mc Donald
3. Winston Churchill
4. Arthur Chamberlain
Answer: 1
Explanation:
1. On February 20, 1947, the British Prime
Minister Clement Atlee declared that the
British rule in India would end by June
30,1948; after which the power would be
transferred to responsible Indian hands.
2. This announcement was followed by the
agitation by the Muslim League
demanding partition of the country.
3. Again on June 3, 1947, the British
Government made it clear that any
Constitution framed by the Constituent
Assembly of India (formed in 1946) cannot
AMIGOS IAS
apply to those parts of the country which
were unwilling to accept it.
4. On the same day (June 3, 1947), Lord
Mountbatten, the viceroy of India, put
forth the partition plan, known as the
Mountbatten Plan.
5. The plan was accepted by the Congress
and the Muslim League.
6. Immediate effect was given to the plan by
enacting the Indian Independence
act,1947
122. The idea of a constituent assembly for India
for the first time was put forward by
1. Jawahar Lal Nehru
2. Subhas Chandra Bose
3. Motilal Nehru
4. M N Roy
Answer: 4
Explanation:
DEMAND FOR A CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY
1. It was in 1934 that the idea of a
Constituent Assembly for India was put
forward for the first time by M. N. Roy, a
pioneer of communist movement in India.
2. In 1935, the Indian National Congress
(INC), for the first time, officially
demanded a Constituent Assembly to
frame the Constitution of India.
3. In 1938, Jawaharlal Nehru, on behalf of
the INC declared that 'the Constitution of
free India must be framed, without
outside interference, by a Constituent
Assembly elected on the basis of adult
franchise'.
4. The demand was finally accepted in
principle by the British Government in
what is known as the 'August Offer' of
1940.
5. In 1942, Sir Stafford Cripps, a member of
the cabinet, came to India with a draft
proposal of the British Government on the
framing of an independent Constitution to
be adopted after World War II.
6. The Cripps Proposals were rejected by the
Muslim League which wanted India to be
divided into two autonomous states with
two separate Constituent Assemblies.
7. Finally, a Cabinet Mission was sent to
India.
44
 8. While it rejected the idea of two
Constituent Assemblies, it put forth a
scheme for the Constituent Assembly
which more or less satisfied the Muslim
League.
123. Which of the following acts is sometimes
described as the "half-loaf system” ?
1. The Pitt's India Act
2. The Charter Act of 1833
3. The regulating act of 1773
4. The Charter Act of 1813
Answer: 1
Explanation:
The Pitt's India Act of 1784
 In order to rectify some defects in the
India Bill of 1773, King George V passed an
ordinance that came to be known as the
Pitt's India Act, sometimes described as
the "half-loaf system” as it sought to
mediate between the Parliament and the
company directors.
Refer the explanation of Q 124
124. Consider the following statements about
Pitts India Act:
1. It enhanced the Parliament's control by
establishing the Board of Control
2. It interfered with the business aspect of
the company
3. The dual governance system introduced
by it continued till 1858
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3
Answer: 2
Explanation:
Features Pitts India Act of 1784:
● It enhanced the Parliament's control by
establishing the Board of Control,
constituting members selected from the
cabinet itself. Hence, statement 1 is
correct
● They were the Secretary for Finance,
Secretary of State for India, and four Privy
Councillors of State for India.
● The new Act did not interfere with the
business aspect of the company. Hence,
statement 2 is incorrect
AMIGOS IAS
● A board of control established was with 6
members (called commissioners) to
supervise and control the government of
India.
● The Court of directors was given all rights
to make all appointments in India.
● Reduction in numbers of the members of
governor-general's councils was made
from four to three, in order to make it
more powerful.
● The company directors still had the power
to look at the administrative matters.
● However, the Board of Control had the
power to appoint the governor-general.
● The governor-general now had to take
permission from the Board of Control
before entering into any treaty or
declaring war against native kings.
● Thus, there was dual governance in the
country, which continued till 1858. Hence,
statement 3 is correct
125. Consider the following statements about the
Statute on Education:
1. It was passed by the English government
in 1813 for the expansion of education in
India
2. Under it, the government set aside a grant
of Rs 1 lakh
Which of the statements given above is/are
incorrect ?
1. 1 only 2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: 4
Explanation:
The Statute of 1813 on Education
1. In 1813, the English government passed a
statute for the expansion of education in
India. Hence, statement 1 is correct
2. The government set aside a grant of Rs 1
lakh for the cause. Hence, statement 2 is
correct.
3. Two schools of thoughts — orientalists
and the anglicists emerged for the
appropriation of funds.
4. The orientalists believed that the best
suited medium of education is the local
language and the anglicists voiced their
choice for education in the English
language.
45
 5. Surprisingly, the allocated funds were not
utilised for the cause for the next 27 years,
till a committee was set up under the
leadership of Lord Macaulay
recommended in 1830 that the funds as
per the Charter Act of 1813, should be
used for promoting English literature,
western science, philosophy and art.
126. Who was the Governor that imposed
censorship of newspapers for the first time in
British India ?
1. Lord Wellesley 2. Lord Lytton
3. Warren Hastings 4. Lord Cornwallis
Answer: 1
Explanation:
1. In 1780, the first newspaper in India, The
Bengal Gazette was started as a weekly, by
James Augustus Hickey.
a. The journal criticised Warren Hastings, the
Governor-General, and therefore, it was
stopped in 1782.
2. There were a number of newspapers
which came up after The Bengal Gazette.
They were:
a. The Calcutta Gazette (1784).
b. The Bengal Journal (1785),
c. Oriental Magazine of Calcutta (1785),
d. The Calcutta Chronicle (1786),
e. The Madras Courier (1788),
f. The Bombay Herald (1785), etc.,
3. The circulation of these early newspapers
was very limited, as the journals were
aimed to cater to the intellectual
entertainment of the Europeans and
Anglo-Indians.
4. In the absence of Press Laws, the
newspapers were at the mercy of the
Company Officials.
5. It was Lord Wellesley who imposed
censorship of newspapers for the first
time in 1799.
a. It was the time he was engaged in a bitter
struggle against the French on one hand,
and with Indian native states like Tippu on
the other.
b. He never wanted the publication of any
matter that would affect his influence.
AMIGOS IAS
c. Wellesley wanted the newspapers to
clearly print in every issue the name of the
printer, editor and the proprietor.
d. The publisher should also submit all the
material for pre censorship by the
Government.
e. Those who violated these rules were
generally punished with deportation to
England.
f. In 1807, the censorship Act was extended
to cover journals, pamphlets and even
books
127. Who among the following was deputed by
the British government to examine and
report on the problems of the press in India ?
1. Thomas Munro
2. Raja Rammohan Roy
3. Lord Macaulay
4. Arthur Wellesley
Answer: 1
Explanation:
1. The Government deputed Sir Thomas
Munro to examine and report on the
problems of the press in India.
2. He pointed out that in the case of the
European press in India, it did not provide
any serious threat.
3. But in the case of the Indian press, Munro
expressed the view that a free press may
corrupt and disaffect the Indian army, and
work for the overthrow of the British
power
4. According to him, A free press and
domination of strangers are things which
are quite incompatible and cannot long
exist together
5. Based on the recommendations of
Thomas Munro, the Government issued
Press Regulations in 1823.
a. According to these new regulations, no
press was to be established, nor any paper
or book was to be printed, without
obtaining a licence from the Government.
b. All the papers and books printed under
the system of licences were to be
submitted to the Government for
inspection.
c. Magistrates were authorised to attach
unlicensed press.
46
 d. Thought leaders like Raja Ram Mohan Roy 4. His parents were Ramakanth Roy and
and Dwaraka Nath Tagore protested Tarini Devi.
against such regulations, they came into 5. He was well versed in Bengali, Sanskrit,
force on 15th April, 1823. Persian, Urdu, English, Latin and Hebrew
128. Which of the following are associated with languages.
Raja Ram Mohan Roy ? 6. His rationalistic approach inspired him to
1. Mirat-ul-Akhbar make enquiry into the genuinity of
2. Tuhfat-ul-Muwahhidin customs and rituals mentioned in religious
3. The precepts of Jesus scriptures.
Select the correct answer using the codes 7. To achieve his aims in 1815, he founded
given below: Atmiya Sabha. Hence, statement 1 is
1. 1 only 2. 2 and 3 correct.
3. 1 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3 8. Later on it was transformed into Brahma
Samaj in 1828.
Answer: 4
9. He was profoundly influenced by
Explanation:
European liberalism and was a great
1. Raja Ram Mohan Roy was a versatile
humanist.
writer.
10. He realised the necessity of radical
2. He edited many papers and journals.
reforms in the socio-religious spheres.
3. 'Samvad Kaumudi (1821), a weekly in
11. In his outlook, he was deeply influenced
Bengali,
by the monotheism and anti- idolatry of
4. 'Mirat-ul-Akhbar' (1822) a weekly in Islam, the deism of Sufism, the ethical
Persian contains the clear ideas of teachings of Christianity and the liberal
Rajaram Mohan Roy. and rationalist doctrines of the west.
5. His famous writings includes Tuhfat-ul- 12. He is rightly known as the father of Indian
Muwahhidin (A Gift to Monotheists), the renaissance.
precepts of Jesus (Guide to peace and
13. He was the contemporary of Lord William
happiness)
Bentinck. Hence, statement 2 is correct
Hence, all the statements are correct.
130. Consider the following personalities :
129. With respect to Raja Ram Mohan Roy,
1. Lala Hansraj
Consider the following statements:
2. Lala Lajpat Rai
1. He founded Atmiya Sabha in 1815
3. Swamy Shraddananda
2. He was a contemporary of Lord William
Who among the above is/are associated with
Bentinck
Arya Samaj ?
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct ?
1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
1. 1 only 2. 2 only
3. 2 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3
3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: 4
Answer: 3
Explanation:
Explanation:
1. After Dayanand’s death, the work of the
Raja Ram Mohan Roy:-
Samaj was carried on by Lala Hansraj, Lala
1. Raja Ram Mohan Roy, (1772-1833) was
Lajpat Rai, Swamy Shraddananda, Pandit
considered as the father of the 19th
Guru Dutt and others.
century Social Reform Movement.
2. Swami Dayananda Saraswati and his
2. He was the contemporary of Lord William
followers contributed a major share for
Bentinck.
the popularisation of social reform and
3. He was born at Radhanagar in a traditional national education.
Bengali Brahmin family.
3. The benefits of western education were
realised by the Arya Samajists.

AMIGOS IAS 47
 4. Under the inspiration of Lala Hansraj and
Lala Lajpat Rai, the D.A.V. (Dayanand
Anglo-Vedic) trust was created to impart
western education.
5. A network of D.A.V. schools and colleges
were spread in many parts of the
countryside with western learning, they
popularised Hindu culture and philosophy.
6. The D.A.V. trust is one of the biggest
educational societies in the country and is
responsible for managing a vast number
of educational institutions.
Hence, all the statements are correct.
131. Consider the following statements about
Arya Samaj:
1. It led a crusade against other Religions.
2. It took a political colour in Hyderabad
State
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct ?
1. 1 only 2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: 3
Explanation:
Arya Samaj :
1. Arya Samaj represents militant Hindu
revivalism.
2. It first sought to purify the Hindu society
of its rampant evils.
3. One of the main objectives of Arya Samaj
was to prevent the conversion of Hindus
into other religions and this led to a
crusade against other Religions. Hence,
statement 1 is correct
4. Restricted to a narrow Hindu basis and
with a negative attitude to Islam, the
Samaj in course of time led the Muslims to
mobilise on a corresponding communal
basis.
Its Activities in the state of Hyderabad:
1. In the princely State of Hyderabad, the
Arya Samaj and its activities were in full
swing after 1880.
2. In Hyderabad the prominent Arya Samaj
leaders were Mahatma Narayana Swamy,
Keshav Rao Koratkar, Pandit Vinayak Rao
Vidyalankar and Pandit Narendraji.
3. The Arya Samaj movement was basically a
Socio- cultural movement.
AMIGOS IAS
4. But later took a political colour in
Hyderabad State. Hence, statement 2 is
correct
5. The last Nizam imposed a ban on the
activities of Arya Samaj in 1936.
6. But, its members continued their
resistance against the Anti Hindu policy of
Nizam.
7. After the emergence of Independent India
Arya Samaj passed a resolution regarding
the integration of Nizam's State with
Indian Union and granting responsible
Government to the people.
8. During the Razakar movement, Arya
Samaj had set up camps for refugees.
9. Thus the Arya Samaj in Telangana made an
immense contribution to the Socio-
cultural and political arenas.
10. Those who still opposed western
education, founded 'gurukulas'. where
education was imparted in ashrams
according to the Vedic principles.
132. The Dinabandhu Sarvajanik Sabha was
founded by
1. E.V Ramaswamy Naicker
2. C.V Raman Pillai
3. Jotiba Phule
4. Narayan Guru
Answer: 3
Explanation:
Jyotiba Phule (1827-1890) and Satya Shodhak
Samaj
1. Jotiba Phule organised a powerful non-
brahmin movement for emancipation of
women, removal of untouchability and to
work for Dalits.
2. His education, personal experience and
association with Christian missionaries
made him critical of prevailing Hindu
religion and customs to emancipate the
depressed classes and to make them
conscious of their rights by educating
them.
3. Phule founded "The Satya Shodhak Samaj"
in 1873.
4. He also founded 'The Dinabandhu
Sarvajanik Sabha' in 1884.
48
 5. In 1854, Jotiba Phule opened a school for
the untouchables and started a private
orphanage to help widows.
6. He established a caste school for low caste
women at Pune and thus championed the
cause of women's education.
7. To carry forward his activities in an
organised manner, he wrote two critical
works.
a. Sarvajanik Satya Dharma Pustak
b. Gulamgiri (1873).
8. The aim of the Phule movement was to
save the low castes from the hypocritical
Brahmins and their opportunistic
scriptures.
9. His aim was to rouse the masses and to
lead them to an organised resistance
against the unreasonable claims of the
priestly class.
10. In the words of Phule "education and
organisation were meant to create unity
and a sense of identity to go back to pre-
Brahmin Religious traditions".
11. This movement spread like a wildfire in
Maharashtra and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was
started to have been influenced by it.
133. The Bahishkrit Hitkarini Sabha was started by
1. Mahatma Gandhi
2. Jotiba Phule
3. Raja Ram Mohan Roy
4. B.R. Ambedkar
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (1891-1956)
1. B.R. Ambedkar was another crusader in
the cause of the uplift of the lower castes.
2. Ambedkar graduated from Elphinstone
College, Bombay; later he did his M.A. and
Ph.D. from Columbia University in 1923,
he was called to the Bar.
3. In July 1924, Dr. Ambedkar started an
organisation in Bombay called 'Bahishkrit
Hitkarini Sabha' for the moral and material
progress of the untouchables.
4. He restored methods of agitation and
launched Satyagraha to establish civic
rights of untouchables to enter the Hindu
temples and draw water from public wells.
AMIGOS IAS
134. With respect to B.R.Ambedkar, consider the
following statements:
1. He attended all the three Round Table
Conferences in London
2. He wanted British rule in India to continue
to safeguard the interest of the lower
castes
3. He was nominated by the Congress Party
as a member of the Constituent Assembly
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. All three 4. None of the above
Answer: 3
Explanation:
1. In 1930 Dr. Ambedkar entered national
politics.
2. He demanded separate electorates for the
untouchables.
3. He was nominated as a delegate of the
three Round Table Conferences in London
(1930-32).
4. The Communal Award announced by the
British Prime Minister on 17th August
1932 provided for separate electorates for
the Depressed Classes.
5. This upset Gandhiji who went fast unto
death, a final compromise popularly
known as the Poona Pact (24 September
1932) provided for reservation of seats for
the Depressed Classes in the general
constituencies.
6. In desperation, Dr. Ambedkar opposed
the National Congress demand for
independence and wanted British rule in
India to continue to safeguard the interest
of the lower castes.
7. In April 1942, he founded the Schedule
Caste Federation as an all India party.
8. Later he announced that Scheduled castes
would leave Hindu fold altogether.
9. He along with many followers embraced
Buddhism.
10. On the eve of independence, Dr.
Ambedkar was nominated by the
Congress Party as a member of the
Constituent Assembly.
49
 11. His contribution in framing and piloting
the Indian Constitution and the Hindu
Code Bill are well recognized.
12. Today, Dr. Ambedkar is remembered as
the emancipator of the lower castes.
13. The new Constitution of Indian Republic
has accepted the Principle of Equality for
all Indian citizens and has abolished
untouchability.
14. The Untouchability (Offences) Act, 1955
spells out the punishments to be awarded
for offences under this Act.
Hence, all the statements are correct
135. Consider the following :
Institution Year of
Establishment
1. Abhinav Bharat 1899
2. India House 1905
3. Mitra Mela 1904
Which of the pairs given above are incorrectly
matched ?
1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3
Answer: 2
Explanation:
India House
1. Shyamji Krishnavarma had started in
London in 1905 an Indian Home Rule
Society— ‘India House’—as a centre for
Indian students, a scholarship scheme to
bring radical youth from India, and a
journal The Indian Sociologist.
2. Revolutionaries such as Savarkar and
Hardayal became the members of India
House.
Abhinav Bharat Society and Mitra Mela
1. Abhinav Bharat Society was famous as an
Indian Independence secret community.
2. Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was an activist,
politician, lawyer, and writer who founded
the Abhinav Bharat Society.
3. Abhinav Bharat Society was a community
of socialists who believed in an armed
revolution to bring down the British
authority and hence carried out a few
assassinations of British officials.
Creation of the Abhinav Bharat Society
AMIGOS IAS
1. Abhinav Bharat was organised by Vinayak
Damodar Savarkar and his brother Ganesh
Damodar Savarkar in 1904.
2. Several hundred revolutionaries and
political activists joined the society.
3. After a few assassinations of British
officials, the Savarkars were convicted and
imprisoned.
4. Founded as "Mitra Mela" in Nashik while
Vinayak Savarkar was still a student at
Fergusson College in Pune, the (Young
India Society) grew to include several
hundred revolutionaries and political
activists.
5. It even had branches in various parts of
India, eventually extending to London
after Savarkar went to study law.
6. Mitra Mela, a revolutionary secret society
in Nasik, was started by Vinayak Savarkar
and Ganesh Savarkar in 1899.
7. In a meeting attended by 200 members
from various towns in Maharashtra,
Swantraveer Vinayak Savarkar renamed it
Abhinav Bharat in 1904.
136. The viceroy of India during the launch of Non
cooperation movement was
1. Lord Chelmsford
2. Lord Linlithgow
3. Lord Irwin
4. Lord Reading
Answer: 1
Explanation:
Lord Chelmsford 1916-1921
1. Formation of Home Rule Leagues by Annie
Besant and Tilak (1916).
2. Lucknow session of the Congress (1916).
3. Lucknow pact between the Congress and
Muslim League (1916).
4. Foundation of Sabarmati Ashram (1916)
after Gandhi's return; launch of
Champaran Satyagraha (1916), Kheda
Satyagraha (1918), and Satyagraha at
Ahmedabad (1918).
5. Montague's August Declaration (1917).
6. Government of India Act (1919).
7. The Rowlatt Act (1919).
8. Jalianwalla Bagh massacre (1919).
9. Launch of Non-Cooperation and KhiLafat
Movements.
50
 10. Foundation of Women's University at
Poona (1916) and appointment of
Saddler's Commission (1917) for reforms
in educational policy.
11. Death of Tilak (August 1, 1920).
12. Appointment of S.F. Sinha as governor of
Bihar (the first Indian to become a
governor).
137. The Khudai Khidmatgar movement was led
by
1. Abdul Ghaffar Khan
2. Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
3. Syed Badruddin Tyabji
4. M A Jinnah
Answer: 1
Explanation:
1. The KhudaiKhidmatgar was a nonviolent
movement against British occupation of
the Indian subcontinent.
2. It was led by Abdul Ghaffar Khan, a
Pashtun freedom fighter, in the North-
West Frontier Province.
3. Over time, the movement acquired a
more political colour, leading to the British
taking notice of its growing prominence in
138.
the region.
4. Following the arrest of Khan and other
leaders in 1929, the movement formally
joined the Indian National Congress after
they failed to receive support from the All-
India Muslim League.
5. Members of the KhudaiKhidmatgar were
organised and the men stood out because
of the bright red shirts they wore as
uniforms, while the women wore black
garments.
QissaKhwani Bazaar massacre
1. Abdul Ghaffar Khan and other leaders of
the KhudaiKhidmatgar were arrested on
April 23, 1930 by British police after he
gave a speech at a gathering in the town
of Utmanzai in the North-West Frontier
Province.
2. Khan’s arrest spurred protests in
neighbouring towns, including Peshawar.
AMIGOS IAS
3. Protests spilled into the QissaKhwani
Bazaar in Peshawar on the day of Khan’s
arrest.
4. British soldiers entered the market area to
disperse crowds that had refused to leave.
a. In response, British army vehicles drove
into the crowds, killing several protesters
and bystanders.
5. In August 1931, the KhudaiKhidmatgar
aligned themselves with the Congress
party, forcing the British to reduce the
violence they perpetrated on the
movement.
Post Independence:
1. The KhudaiKhidmatgar opposed Partition,
a stance that many interpreted as the
movement not being in favour of the
creation of the independent nation of
Pakistan.
2. Post 1947, the KhudaiKhidmatgar slowly
found their political influence decreasing
to such an extent that the movement and
the massacre 90 years ago in the
QissaKhwani Bazaar has been wiped out
from collective memory.
The “Philosophy of Bomb” was written by
1. Bhagat Singh
2. Chandra Shekhar Azad
3. Aurobindo Gosh
4. Bhagwati Charan Vohra
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Bhagwati Charan Vohra
1. Revolutionary freedom fighter Bhagwati
Charan Vohra died on May 28, 1930, as a
result of an explosion while testing a
bomb.
2. Vohra was the author of the famous
article titled The Philosophy of Bomb.
3. In 1921, Vohra quit his college and joined
the Satyagraha movement. However,
after the movement was called off, he
resumed his studies at the National
College, Lahore, and acquired a B.A.
degree.
4. He was appointed the Propaganda
Secretary of the Naujawan Bharat Sabha.
He, along with Bhagat Singh prepared the
manifesto of that organisation.
51
 5. They were also part of the Hindustan
Socialist Republican Association (HSRA).
6. Vohra also authored the manifesto of the
HSRA.
7. He was against caste-based divisions in
society and worked for the poor as per his
socialist beliefs. He also promoted Hindu-
Muslim unity.
8. On 23rd December 1929, Vohra and his
associates plotted and executed a plan to
assassinate the Viceroy Lord Irwin by
hurling a bomb at a train in which Lord
Irwin was travelling.
9. The Viceroy escaped unhurt.
139. In which of the following provinces did the
Indian National Congress win an absolute
majority in the 1937 elections ?
1. North-West Frontier Province
2. Bengal
3. United Province
4. Bombay
Answer: 3
Explanation:
1. The Congress swept the polls in most of
the provinces.
2. Out of the 1585 seats in the 11 provincial
legislatures the Congress bagged 706
seats.
3. It won absolute majorities in Madras, U.P.,
Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Orissa and
was the largest single party in Bombay,
Bengal, Assam and North-West Frontier
Province.
4. This success, which was a surprise even to
most Congressmen, gave a new turn to
the office acceptance question.
5. Finally, however, Congress ministries
were formed in July 1937 in seven out of
eleven provinces.
6. Subsequently, the Congress formed
coalition governments in two others.
7. The hesitation of the Congress to form
ministries even after such a landslide
victory in the elections could be attributed
to the special power of the Governor, as
laid down in the Act of 1935 to overrule
legislation put through by the ministers.
140. Consider the following statements about
Quit India Movement:
AMIGOS IAS
1. The British Government declared the
Cogress as an unlawful association
2. Parallel governments were set up at
Talmuk and Satara
3. The communists did not join it
4. The Hindu Mahasabha boycotted it
Which of the statements given above are
correct ?
1. Only one 2. Only two
3. Only three 4. All four
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Quit India Movement:
1. In the early hours of August 9, 1942, in a
single sweep, all the top leaders of the
Congress were arrested and taken to
unknown destinations.
2. The Congress Working Committee, the All
India Congress Committee and the
Provincial Congress Committees were
declared unlawful associations under the
Criminal Law Amendment Act of 1908.
3. The assembly of public meetings was
prohibited under rule 56 of the Defence of
India Rules.
Parallel Governments
1. Parallel governments were established at
many places:
2. Ballia (in August 1942 for a week) under
Chittu Pandey.
a. He got many Congress leaders released.
3. Tamluk (Midnapore, from December 1942
to September 1944) Jatiya Sarkar
undertook cyclone relief work, sanctioned
grants to schools, supplied paddy from the
rich to the poor, organised Vidyut Vahinis,
etc.
4. Satara (mid-1943 to 1945)-named "Prati
Sarkar", was organised under leaders like
Y.B. Chavan, Nana Patil, etc. Village
libraries and Nyayadan Mandals were
organised, prohibition campaigns were
carried on and 'Gandhi marriages were
organised.
5. Active help was provided by businessmen
(through donations, shelter and material
help), students (acting as couriers), simple
villagers (by refusing information to
authority), pilots and train drivers (by
52
 delivering bombs and other material) and
government officials including police (who
passed on secret information to the
activists).
Extent of Mass Participation:
1. The Communists did not join the
movement; in the wake of Russia (where
the communists were in power) being
attacked by Nazi Germany, the
communists began to support the British
war against Germany and the 'Imperialist
War' became the 'People's War'.
2. The Muslim League opposed the
movement, fearing that if the British left
India at that time, the minorities would be
oppressed by the Hindus.
3. The Hindu Mahasabha boycotted the
movement.
4. The Princely states showed a low-key
response.
Hence, all the statements are correct
141. Which of the following are the new forms of
struggle put forward by the Militant
Nationalists during the Swadeshi movement?
1. Corps of Volunteers
2. Self-Reliance
3. National Education
Select the correct answer using the code given
below :
1. 1 and 2 2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 3 4. 1,2 and 3
Answer: 4
Explanation:
New Forms of Struggle and Impact
 The militant nationalists put forward
several fresh ideas at the theoretical,
propaganda and programme levels.
Among the several forms of struggle
thrown up by the movement were the
following.
1. Boycott of Foreign Goods
a. Boycott included boycott and public
burning of foreign cloth, boycott of
foreign-made salt or sugar, refusal by
priests to ritualise marriages involving
exchange of foreign goods, refusal by
washermen to wash foreign clothes. This
form of protest met with great success at
the practical and popular level.
AMIGOS IAS
2. Public Meetings and Processions
a. Public meetings and processions emerged
as major methods of mass mobilisation.
Simultaneously they were forms of
popular expression.
3. Corps of Volunteers or 'Samitis'
a. Samitis such as the Swadesh Bandhab
Samiti of Ashwini Kumar Dutta (in Barisal)
emerged as a very popular and powerful
means of mass mobilisation. In Tirunelveli,
Tamil powerful Chidambaram Pillai,
Subramanian Siva and some Nawyers
formed the Swadeshi Sangam which
inspired the local masses. These samitis
generated political consciousness among
the masses through magic lantern
lectures, swadeshi songs, providing
physical and moral training to their
members, social work during famines and
epidemics, organisation of schools,
training in swadeshi crafts and arbitration
courts.
4. Imaginative use of Traditional Popular
Festivals and Melas
a. The idea was to use traditional festivals
and occasions as a means of reaching out
to the masses and spreading political
messages. For instance, Tilak's Ganapati
and Shivaji festivals became a medium of
swadeshi propaganda not only in western
India, but also in Bengal. In Bengal also,
the traditional folk theatre forms were
used for this purpose.
5. Emphasis given to Self-Reliance
a. Self-reliance or 'atma shakti' was
encouraged. This implied re-assertion of
national dignity, honour and confidence
and social and economic regeneration of
the villages. In practical terms, it included
social reform and campaigns against caste
oppression, early marriage, dowry system,
consumption of alcohol, etc.
6. Programme of Swadeshi or National
Education
a. Bengal National College, inspired by
Tagore's Shantiniketan, was set up with
Aurobindo Ghosh as its principal. Soon
national schools and colleges sprang up in
various parts of the country. On August
15, 1906 the national council of Education
53
 was set up to organise a system of
education national lines and under
national control.
Hence, all the statements are correct
142. The Swadeshi Steam Navigation Company
was started by
1. W Hirachand
2. J.R.D Tata
3. Jamanlal Bajaj
4. V.O. Chidambaram Pillai
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Swadeshi or Indigenous Enterprises
1. The swadeshi spirit also found expression
in the of swadeshi textile mills, soap and
match factories, tanneries, banks,
insurance companies, shops, etc.
2. These enterprises were based more on
patriotic zeal than on business acumen.
3. V.O. Chidambaram Pillai's venture into a
national shipbuilding enterprise Swadeshi
Steam Navigation Company-at Tuticorin,
however, gave a challenge to the British
India Steam Navigation Company.
143. With reference to revolutionary terrorism,
consider the following statements:
1. Bal Gangadhar Tilak stressed on passive
resistance and bloodless revolution only in
his public utterances
2. Bipin Chandra Pal was opposed to
terroristic activities
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct ?
1. Only 1 2. Only 2
3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: 3
Explanation:
1. The swadeshi movement was free in its
initial stage from an open exhibition of
disloyalty to British rule.
2. But very soon the movement became
strongly anti-British and militant in
character.
3. This development was due to certain
factors.
a. The influence of Bal Gangadhar Tilak, the
great extremist leader of Maharashtra,
was gradually making itself felt in Bengal,
particularly through the Bengali press.
AMIGOS IAS
b. Under the spell of Tilak's magnetic
personality Bipin Chandra Pal's paper New
India and Aurobindo Ghose's paper
Bandemataram began to publish
aggressive writings.
4. Tilak had boldly asserted that after a man
had dedicated himself in the name of God
to the cause of his country or nation,
ordinary ethical standards of conduct
could no longer apply to his actions.
a. In other words, acts of violence and even
murder were not immoral or unethical if
these were committed for achieving
India's independence.
5. Both Tilak and Aurobindo laid stress on
passive resistance and bloodless
revolution in their public utterances but
their secret activities indicated a
completely different policy. Hence,
statement 1 is correct
6. Bipin Chandra Pal was, however,
genuinely opposed to terroristic activities
though he was also regarded as an
extremist leader.
7. He was in favour of an agitation within the
limits of the Penal Code. Hence,
statement 2 is correct
144. In 1905 the Anushilan Samiti established its
branch in Dacca under the leadership of
1. Aurobindo Gosh
2. Barindra Kumar Gosh
3. Satish Chandra Bose
4. Pulin Behari Das.
Answer: 4
Explanation:
1. In 1905, the year of the Partition of
Bengal, the Anushilan Samiti established
its branch in Dacca, under the leadership
of Pulin Behari Das.
2. In course of time the Dacca-branch of
Anushilan Samiti became more prominent
than its mother organisation in Calcutta in
the field of revolutionary activities.
3. Several other revolutionary organisations
gradually sprouted up in different parts of
Bengal.
4. In Calcutta itself, another revolutionary
society called the Atmannati Samithi was
led by Bipinbehari Ganguly
54
145. Which of the following revolutionary
newspapers openly preached terrorism in
Bengal ?
1. Navashakti 2. Sandhya
3. Yugantar 4. Bandemataram
Answer: 3
Explanation:
1. Of the Bengali newspapers which
preached terrorism three acquired great
reputation-
a. Sandhya
b. Yugantar
c. Bandemataram.
146.
2. The Yugantar
a. The Yugantar sought to preach revolution
more as a religion than as a political
movement.
b. It openly asserted that in the struggle for
independence there could be no moral
consideration of right or wrong because
everything was laid at the feet of the
Goddess of independence.
c. In a series of articles, the Yugantar set
forth a complete scheme for achieving
India's independence.
d. The first essential prerequisite for
achieving independence was that the
educated classes must learn to hate
British rule intensely.
e. Popular movement was to be organised
on a mass basis and side by side there
would be revolutionary societies to
terrorise the government.
f. Funds would be collected both through
donations by rich people and through
political dacoities.
g. Bombs were to be manufactured in secret
places and guns would be imported from
foreign countries.
h. The Yugantar had a tremendous appeal to
the Bengali educated youth of this
generation.
3. the Sandhya
a. Among the other papers the Sandhya
edited by Brahmabandhab Upadhyay
deserves mention.
b. When its editor was put up for trial he
refused to acknowledge the jurisdiction of
AMIGOS IAS
the British court and died in the midst of
his trial in October, 1907.
4. Bandemataram
a. Aurobindo's English paper Bandemataram
also intoxicated its readers and soon
became a power in the land.
b. Aurobindo preached nationalism as a
religion.
5. Officially, the Sandhya, the Nabashakti
and the Bandemataram stood committed
to the doctrine of passive resistance. The
Yugantar alone openly preached
terrorism.
In the context of freedom struggle, which of
the following movements is also known as
the “August Movement” ?
1. Swadeshi and Boycott Movement
2. Non-cooperation Movement
3. Civil Disobedience Movement
4. Quit India Movement
Answer: 4
Explanation:
What was the Quit India Movement?
1. On 8th August 1942, Mahatma Gandhi
called to end British rule and launched the
Quit India Movement at the session of the
All-India Congress Committee in Mumbai.
2. Gandhiji gave the call “Do or Die” in his
speech delivered at the Gowalia Tank
Maidan, now popularly known as August
Kranti Maidan.
3. Aruna Asaf Ali popularly known as the
'Grand Old Lady' of the Independence
Movement is known for hoisting the
Indian flag at the Gowalia Tank Maidan in
Mumbai during the Quit India Movement.
4. The slogan ‘Quit India’ was coined by
Yusuf Meherally, a socialist and trade
unionist who also served as Mayor of
Mumbai.
a. Meherally had also coined the slogan
“Simon Go Back”.
What caused the Movement?
1. Failure of Cripps Mission: The immediate
cause for the movement was the collapse
of Cripps Mission.
a. Under Stafford Cripps, the mission was
sent to resolve the Indian question of a
new constitution and self-government.
55
 b. It failed because it offered India not
complete freedom but the Dominion
Status to India, along with the partition.
2. Indian Involvement in World War II
without prior consultation:
a. The British assumption of unconditional
support from India to the British in World
War II was not taken well by the Indian
National Congress.
3. Prevalence of anti-British Sentiment:
a. The anti-British sentiments and demand
for full-independence had gained
popularity among Indian masses.
4. Centralisation of Many Small Movements:
a. The two decades of mass movement
which were being conducted on a much
more radical tone under the leadership of
the various associated and affiliated
bodies of the Congress, like All India Kisan
Sabha, Forward Bloc etc. had already
prepared the ground for the movement.
5. Shortage of Essential Commodities:
a. The economy was also in shatters as a
result of World War II.
147. Consider the following statements :
Statement-I :
The revolutionaries outside India were not
haunted by the fear of British police
Statement-II :
The British government in England was more
harsher than the British government of India
Which of the following is correct in respect of
the above statements ?
1. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are
correct and Statement-II is the correct
explanation for Statement-I
2. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are
correct and Statement-II is not the correct
explanation for Statement-I
3. Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is
incorrect.
4. Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is
correct.
Answer: 3
Explanation:
Revolutionaries Outside India
1. The Indian revolutionaries realised quite
early the importance of establishing their
centres outside India.
AMIGOS IAS
2. Such a course of action had two distinct
advantages.
a. The revolutionaries outside India were
not always haunted by the fear of British
police.
i. Even the British government in England
was more liberal and lenient than the
British government of India.
b. Outside India, the revolutionaries were
always sure of getting some sort of help
from local supporters.
i. This was true not only of France, Germany
and the U.S. but also of Great Britain itself
148. What is the correct chronological order of the
Governor Generals/Viceroys of India ?
1. Lord Wellesley-Lord Hastings-Lord
Duffrin-Lord Metcalfe
2. Lord Hastings-Lord Wellesley-Lord
Metclafe-Lord Duffrin
3. Lord Wellesley-Lord Hastings-Lord
Metclafe-Lord Duffrin
4. Lord Metclafe-Lord Duffrin-Lord
Wellesley-Lord Hastings
Answer: 3
Explanation:
Governor Generals : Highlights-
Lord Wellesley 1798-1805
1. Introduction of the Subsidiary Alliance
System (1798), first alliance with Nizam of
Hyderabad.
2. Fourth Mysore War (1799).
3. Second Maratha War (1803-05).
4. Took over the administration of Tanjore
(1799), Surat (1800) and Camatic (1801).
5. Treaty of Bassein (1802)
Lord Hastings 1813-1823
1. Anglo-Nepal War (1814-16) and the Treaty
of Sagauli,1816.
2. Third Maratha War (1817-19) and
dissolution of Maratha Confederacy,
creation of Bombay Presidency
3. Strife with Pindaris (1817-1818).
4. Treaty with Scindia (1817).
5. Establishment of Ryotwari System by
Thomas Munro, governor of Madras
(1820)
Lord Metcalfe 1835-1836
1. New press law removing restrictions on
the press in India.
56
 Lord Dufferin 1884-1888 marking the date of his accession. Hence,
1. The Third Burmese War (1885-86). statement 2 is incorrect
2. Establishment of the Indian National 4. Later many inscriptions came to be dated
Congress in the Gupta era.
149. The Maratha confederacy was dissolved 5. Matrimonial Alliances
during the Governor-Generalship of a. He entered into a matrimonial alliance
1. Lord Dalhousie 2. Lord Amherst with the Lichchhavis (based in Nepal terai)
3. Lord Wellesley 4. Lord Hastings by marrying the Lichchhavi princess
Answer: 4 Kumaradevi and enhanced his power and
prestige.
Explanation:
b. After the alliance, he issued a special
Lord Hastings 1813-1823
typed coins, called the king and queen
1. Anglo-Nepal War (1814-16) and the Treaty
type with Chandragupta and Kumaradevi
of Sagauli,1816.
engraved face to face on the obverse, and
2. Third Maratha War (1817-19) and a goddess seated on a lion on the reverse,
dissolution of Maratha Confederacy, with the legend Lichchhavayah (the Lichth
creation of Bombay Presidency havis).
3. Strife with Pindaris (1817-1818). c. These coins were made of gold and
4. Treaty with Scindia (1817). followed the weight system of the
5. Establishment of Ryotwari System by Kushanas, suggesting that the Guptas
Thomas Munro, governor of Madras were possibly subordinates of the later
(1820) Kushanas.
150. Consider the following statements about
Chandragupta I:
1. He was the founder of Gupta Dynasty
2. He founded a new era called Vikram
Samvat
Which of your statements given above is/are
correct ?
1. 1 only 2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2 4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: 4
Explanation:
Srigupta
 He was the first king of the Gupta dynasty.
Hence, statement 1 is incorrect
Ghatotkacha
He was the successor of Srigupta.
Chandragupta-1 (c.319-335/350 CE)
1. He was the first important king of the
Gupta dynasty.
2. He seems to have laid the foundation of
the empire; and was the first Gupta king
to assume the title of maharajadhiraja
('the great king of kings'), signifying
imperial power and status.
3. Chandragupta started a new era from 319-
320 CE (known as the Gupta Samvat),

AMIGOS IAS 57