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Which of the following marriage system was allowed by the caste system?
  • a)
    Endogamous 
  • b)
    Exogamous
  • c)
    Both a and b
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Simran Rane answered
Marriage System Allowed by Caste System

The caste system is a hierarchical social structure prevalent in India, which divides people into different castes based on their birth. The caste system has its own rules and regulations for marriage, and it allows for certain marriage systems while prohibiting others. Let's take a look at the marriage systems allowed by the caste system:

Endogamous Marriage System

The endogamous marriage system is a type of marriage in which individuals are expected to marry within their own caste or sub-caste. In other words, people are not allowed to marry outside their own caste. The caste system allows for endogamous marriages, and it is the most common type of marriage in India. The endogamous marriage system is prevalent in all castes, and it is considered an important practice to maintain the purity of the caste.

Exogamous Marriage System

The exogamous marriage system is a type of marriage in which individuals are allowed to marry outside their caste or sub-caste. The caste system prohibits exogamous marriages, and it is not considered an acceptable practice. However, some castes have their own rules and regulations regarding exogamous marriages. For example, the Kshatriya caste allows for exogamous marriages, but the bride must belong to a higher caste than the groom.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the caste system allows for endogamous marriages but prohibits exogamous marriages. The endogamous marriage system is the most common type of marriage in India, and it is practiced in all castes. However, some castes have their own rules and regulations regarding exogamous marriages.

Read the following text and answer the following questions on the basis of the same: “Compared to the ancient past, we know a lot more about caste in our recent history. If modern history is taken to begin with the nineteenth century, then Indian Independence in 1947 offers a natural dividing line between the colonial period (roughly 150 years from around 1800 to 1947) and the post-Independence or post-colonial period (the six decades from 1947 to the present day). The present form of caste as a social institution has been shaped very strongly by both the colonial period as well as the rapid changes that have come about in independent India.”
Q. Which of the following is an example of the economic changes affecting caste?
  • a)
    Recruitment to industrial jobs continued to be organised along caste and kinship-based lines.
  • b)
    Emergence of caste-based political parties in the 1980s.
  • c)
    Particular departments or shop floors were often dominated by specific castes.
  • d)
    Modern industry created all kinds of new jobs for which there were no caste rules.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Arun Yadav answered
The first and the third options are examples of the resilience of the caste system. Emergence of caste-based political parties in the 1980s is an example of political changes. Growth of private modern industry opened new job opportunities that where caste rules did not apply. At a different level, modern educated Indians attracted to the liberal ideas of individualism and meritocracy, began to abandon the more extreme caste practices.

What are tribes positively inclined towards?
  • a)
    Judaism
  • b)
    Hinduism 
  • c)
    Buddhism
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Positive Inclination of Tribes towards Hinduism

Introduction:
Tribes are indigenous communities that have their unique cultural identity, language, and customs. They are the original inhabitants of a particular region and have a deep connection with the land, forests, and natural resources. Many tribes in India are inclined towards Hinduism due to various reasons.

Cultural Influence:
Hinduism has a significant cultural influence on the tribal communities of India. Many tribal beliefs and practices are similar to Hinduism, such as the worship of nature, ancestor worship, and the belief in various deities. The tribes have adopted many Hindu rituals and customs, such as the use of vermilion, turmeric, and the sacred thread.

Social Acceptance:
Tribes have found social acceptance in Hinduism. Many tribes have been assimilated into the Hindu caste system and have been given a higher social status. They have also been given access to education and employment opportunities, which were previously denied to them.

Religious Tolerance:
Hinduism is a religion that promotes religious tolerance and acceptance of other faiths. Many tribes have found it easier to practice their traditional beliefs and practices alongside Hinduism. They have also been able to participate in various Hindu festivals and have been accepted as part of the larger Hindu community.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, many tribes in India are positively inclined towards Hinduism due to its cultural influence, social acceptance, and religious tolerance. Hinduism has allowed the tribes to preserve their traditional beliefs and practices while also assimilating into the larger Hindu community.

Who was the director of the 1901 census?
  • a)
    Robert
  • b)
    Herbert Risley 
  • c)
    William Bentik
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajesh Gupta answered
The 1901 census under the direction of herbert Risley was particularly important as it sought to collect information on the social hierarchy of caste, i.e., the social order of precedence in particular regions, as to the position of each caste in the rank order.

Read the following text and answer the following questions on the basis of the same:
“Tribe’ is a modern term for communities that are very old, being among the oldest inhabitants of the sub-continent. Tribes in India have generally been defined in terms of what they were not. Tribes were communities that did not practice a religion with a written text; did not have a state or political form of the normal kind; did not have sharp class divisions; and, most important, they did not have caste and were neither Hindus nor peasants. The term was introduced in the colonial era. The use of a single term for a very disparate set of communities was more a matter of administrative convenience… In terms of positive characteristics, tribes have been classified according to their ‘permanent’ and ‘acquired’ traits.”
Q. Which of the following is NOT a permanent trait of tribes in India?
  • a)
    Region
  • b)
    Ecological habitat
  • c)
    Mode of livelihood
  • d)
    Language
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Region, Ecological habitat, and Language as Permanent Traits of Tribes in India
Region:
- Tribes in India are often identified by the region they inhabit. They have distinct territories where they have lived for generations, maintaining their unique cultural practices and traditions.
Ecological habitat:
- Another permanent trait of tribes in India is their ecological habitat. Tribes have adapted to specific environmental conditions, such as forests, mountains, deserts, or plains, which have shaped their way of life and livelihood practices.
Language:
- Language is an important marker of tribal identity. Many tribes in India have their own distinct languages or dialects, which are passed down through generations. Language plays a crucial role in preserving tribal culture and heritage.
Mode of livelihood:
- Unlike region, ecological habitat, and language, the mode of livelihood is not necessarily a permanent trait of tribes in India. Tribes have historically engaged in various livelihood activities such as hunting, gathering, fishing, agriculture, or pastoralism, which can change over time due to factors like modernization, urbanization, or government policies.

Read the following text and answer the following questions on the basis of the same: “Compared to the ancient past, we know a lot more about caste in our recent history. If modern history is taken to begin with the nineteenth century, then Indian Independence in 1947 offers a natural dividing line between the colonial period (roughly 150 years from around 1800 to 1947) and the post-Independence or post-colonial period (the six decades from 1947 to the present day). The present form of caste as a social institution has been shaped very strongly by both the colonial period as well as the rapid changes that have come about in independent India.”
Q. Choose the incorrect statement about the position of caste and caste-based issues in the nationalist movement.
  • a)
    Anti-untouchability programmes became a significant part of the Congress agenda.
  • b)
    There was an initiative taken to organise “depressed classes” from both ends of the caste spectrum.
  • c)
    The dominant view was to treat caste as a social evil and as a colonial ploy to divide Indians.
  • d)
    Efforts to organise the “depressed classes” and particularly the untouchable castes began during the nationalist movement.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Understanding Caste in the Nationalist Movement
The question asks to identify the incorrect statement regarding caste issues within the nationalist movement in India. The provided options hint at various perspectives and initiatives regarding caste, particularly the untouchable castes or "depressed classes."
Analysis of Option D
- Option D states: "Efforts to organise the 'depressed classes' and particularly the untouchable castes began during the nationalist movement."
- This statement is misleading because while there were efforts to address caste issues during the nationalist movement, significant and organized efforts specifically targeting the "depressed classes" were not as prominent until later.
Context of Caste in Nationalism
- The nationalist movement primarily focused on achieving independence from colonial rule, which often overshadowed caste-based issues.
- Key leaders like B.R. Ambedkar emerged later in the struggle, advocating for the rights of the untouchables and highlighting caste discrimination more forcefully.
Correctly Identified Statements
- Options A, B, and C accurately reflect the nationalist movement's engagement with caste:
- Anti-untouchability programmes became significant: The Congress party did incorporate anti-untouchability agendas in its manifesto.
- Initiatives to organise “depressed classes”: There were efforts to unite various caste groups, but often these did not effectively prioritize the needs of the untouchables.
- View of caste as a social evil: Many nationalists viewed caste as a colonial tool used to create divisions among Indians.
Conclusion
Thus, the incorrect statement regarding the timing and nature of efforts to organize the "depressed classes" is Option D, as significant mobilization for their rights primarily gained momentum post-independence rather than being a central focus during the nationalist movement.

What kind of system is the society consisting of all castes?
  • a)
    Anarchistic
  • b)
    Relational
  • c)
    Hierarchical 
  • d)
    Individualistic
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Kajal Singh answered
Society Consisting of All Castes: A Hierarchical System

In a society consisting of all castes, the correct answer is option 'C', which is a hierarchical system. Let's explore why this answer is appropriate in detail.

Hierarchy in Caste System:
One of the defining characteristics of a society consisting of all castes is its hierarchical structure. The caste system is a social stratification system that categorizes individuals into different castes based on their birth, occupation, and social status. Each caste has its own set of rights, privileges, and obligations.

Caste Categories:
The caste system typically consists of four main castes, which are Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (laborers and servants). Additionally, there is the Dalit or Untouchable caste, which historically has been considered outside the four-fold caste system.

Hierarchy and Social Status:
Within this system, each caste holds a specific position in the social hierarchy. The Brahmins, as the highest caste, enjoy the most privileges and power, followed by the Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras. Dalits, on the other hand, have historically been marginalized and discriminated against, often facing social exclusion and restricted access to resources and opportunities.

Restrictions and Social Mobility:
Social mobility within the caste system is limited, as individuals are born into a specific caste and remain in that caste for life. Movement between castes is generally not allowed, creating a rigid social structure. This lack of mobility reinforces the hierarchical nature of the system.

Preservation of Hierarchy:
The caste system is further maintained through various social, cultural, and religious practices. Endogamy, the practice of marrying within one's caste, helps preserve caste boundaries and hierarchy. Moreover, the system is supported by religious beliefs and norms, which attribute a person's caste to their karma and past lives.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, a society consisting of all castes operates under a hierarchical system. Castes are ranked and individuals' social status is determined by their birth and caste affiliation. This system restricts social mobility and reinforces the hierarchical structure through cultural and religious practices, perpetuating the inequalities and divisions within the society.

How many major divisions were determined in the Varna system?
  • a)
    Six
  • b)
    Five
  • c)
    Four 
  • d)
    Three
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Nandita Joshi answered
The Varna system is an ancient Indian social hierarchy that divided people into different classes based on their occupation and social status. It was determined by birth and was considered a fundamental part of Indian society. There were four major divisions in the Varna system, which are explained below:

1. Brahmins: The Brahmins were the highest caste in the Varna system. They were considered the priests and scholars of Indian society. Their primary occupation was to study and teach Hindu scriptures, perform religious ceremonies, and advise kings and rulers.

2. Kshatriyas: The Kshatriyas were the second-highest caste in the Varna system. They were considered the rulers and warriors of Indian society. Their primary occupation was to govern and protect the people, and they were responsible for defending the country against invaders.

3. Vaishyas: The Vaishyas were the third caste in the Varna system. They were considered the merchants and traders of Indian society. Their primary occupation was to engage in trade and commerce, and they were responsible for managing the economy.

4. Shudras: The Shudras were the lowest caste in the Varna system. They were considered the laborers and servants of Indian society. Their primary occupation was to perform manual labor, such as farming and construction, and to serve the higher castes.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the Varna system was an ancient Indian social hierarchy that divided people into four major castes based on their occupation and social status: Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras. It was a fundamental part of Indian society and was determined by birth. The Varna system has been criticized for being discriminatory and was eventually abolished by the Indian Constitution in 1950.

Read the following text and answer the following questions on the basis of the same: Opinions also differ on the exact age of the caste system. It is generally agreed, though, that the four varna classification is roughly three thousand years old. However, the ‘caste system’ stood for different things in different time periods, so that it is misleading to think of the same system continuing for three thousand years. In its earliest phase, in the late Vedic period roughly between 900 — 500 BC, the caste system was really a varna system and consisted of only four major divisions. These divisions were not very elaborate or very rigid, and they were not determined by birth. Movement across the categories seems to have been not only possible but quite common. It is only in the postVedic period that caste became the rigid institution that is familiar to us from well-known definitions.
Q. Membership in a caste involves strict rules about marriage. Marriages are restricted to members of the caste group. What do we call this practice?
  • a)
    Polyandry
  • b)
    Polygamy
  • c)
    Endogamy
  • d)
    Monogamy
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Endogamy Practice in Caste System
The practice of restricting marriages within a particular caste group is known as endogamy. This means that individuals are expected to marry within their own caste, and inter-caste marriages are discouraged or even prohibited in some cases.

Significance of Endogamy in Caste System
- Maintaining Caste Purity: Endogamy helps in preserving the purity and hierarchy of the caste system by ensuring that social boundaries are not crossed through marriage.
- Preservation of Cultural Practices: By marrying within the same caste, individuals are more likely to uphold and pass on their caste-specific traditions, rituals, and values.
- Protection of Caste Privileges: Endogamy helps in safeguarding the privileges and benefits that come with belonging to a particular caste, as inter-caste marriages may blur these distinctions.

Challenges of Endogamy
- Reduced Genetic Diversity: Endogamy can lead to a limited gene pool within a caste group, increasing the risk of genetic disorders and health issues.
- Social Stagnation: By restricting marriage options, endogamy can limit social mobility and opportunities for individuals to interact with people from different backgrounds.
- Resistance to Change: The practice of endogamy can reinforce traditional beliefs and customs, making it difficult for caste boundaries to be challenged or dismantled.
In conclusion, endogamy plays a significant role in maintaining the structure and identity of the caste system, but it also poses challenges in terms of diversity, social progress, and inclusivity.

The industrial areas of what state have suffered a dilution of the tribal share of the population?
  • a)
    Bihar
  • b)
    Jamshedpur
  • c)
    Haryana
  • d)
    Jharkhand 
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Arun Yadav answered
The industrial areas of Jharkhand have suffered a dilution of the tribal share of the population. Similar pressure is being felt in Arunachal Pradesh. Today, this interactional process is formed rather than any primordial (Orginal, ancient) characteristics peculiar to tribes. Because the interaction with the mainstream has generally been on terms unfavorable to the tribal communities, many tribal identities today are centered on ideas of resistance and opposition to the overwhelming force of the non-tribal world—the positive impact of successes. 

Read the following text and answer the following questions on the basis of the same: “Compared to the ancient past, we know a lot more about caste in our recent history. If modern history is taken to begin with the nineteenth century, then Indian Independence in 1947 offers a natural dividing line between the colonial period (roughly 150 years from around 1800 to 1947) and the post-Independence or post-colonial period (the six decades from 1947 to the present day). The present form of caste as a social institution has been shaped very strongly by both the colonial period as well as the rapid changes that have come about in independent India.”
The post-Independence Indian state inherited and reflected the contradictions of the nationalist movement.
Q. Choose the incorrect statement about the postIndependence India state?
  • a)
    The state was committed to the abolition of caste and explicitly wrote this into the Constitution.
  • b)
    The state was both unable and unwilling to push through radical reforms which would have undermined the economic basis for caste inequality.
  • c)
    It assumed that if it operated in a caste-blind manner, this would automatically lead to the undermining of caste-based privileges.
  • d)
    The state made sufficient efforts to deal with the fact that the upper castes and the lower castes were far from equal in economic and educational terms.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajesh Gupta answered
The other three statements prove that the efforts made by the Indian state were not sufficient and their actions were also contradictory towards the abolition of caste.

What made it difficult for the caste-segregated patterns of social interaction to survive?
  • a)
    Partition
  • b)
    Industrialisation
  • c)
    Urbanisation 
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Arun Yadav answered
Urbanization and the conditions of collective living in the cities made it difficult for the caste-segregated patterns of social interaction to survive.

What is the name of an ancient social institution that has been part of Indian history and culture for thousands of years?
  • a)
    Dalits
  • b)
    Untouchability
  • c)
    Brahmins
  • d)
    Caste 
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajesh Gupta answered
Like any Indian, you already know that caste is the name of an ancient social institution that has been part of Indian history and culture for thousands of years. But like any Indian living in the twenty-first century, you also know that something called caste is definitely a part of Indian society today. 

What brought about major changes in the institution of caste?
  • a)
    Oppression
  • b)
    Neo-Colonialism
  • c)
    Colonialism 
  • d)
    Imperialism
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Arun Yadav answered
Colonialism brought about major changes in the institution of caste. Perhaps it would be more accurate to say that the institution of caste underwent fundamental changes during the colonial period.

What type of economy has brought tribal societies into contact with the mainstream society a long time ago?
  • a)
    Capitalist 
  • b)
    Imperialist
  • c)
    Neoliberal
  • d)
    Socialist
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajesh Gupta answered
The capitalist economy’s drive to exploit forest resources and minerals and to recruit cheap labor brought tribal societies in contact with the mainstream society a long time ago. However, the colonial era’s early anthropological work had described tribes as isolated cohesive communities. Colonialism had already brought irrevocable changes in their world.

Who contributed to the development of Sanskritisation and the dominant caste?
  • a)
    Aristotle
  • b)
    Bendit
  • c)
    Nehru
  • d)
    M.N Srinivas
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajesh Gupta answered
Perhaps the most common of these are Sanskritisation and dominant caste, both contributed by m.n Srinivas but discussed extensively and criticized by other scholars. Sanskritisation refers to a process whereby members of a (usually middle or lower) caste attempt to raise their own social status by adopting the ritual, domestic and social practices of a caste (or castes) of higher status.

What is the word most commonly used to refer to the institution of caste in Indian languages?
  • a)
    Jati
  • b)
    Sakti
  • c)
    Jaati
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajesh Gupta answered
Jati is the word most commonly used to refer to the institution of caste in Indian languages. However, it is interesting to note that, increasingly, Indian language speakers are beginning to use the English word caste. The precise relationship between varna and jati has been the subject of much speculation and debate among scholars.

What do castes involve within themselves?
  • a)
    Non-Divisions
  • b)
    Sub-Divisions
  • c)
    Subdistricts
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajesh Gupta answered
Castes also involve sub-divisions within themselves, i.e., castes almost always have sub-castes, and sometimes sub-castes may also have sub-castes.

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