Worksheet Solutions: Regional Aspirations | Political Science Class 12 - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

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Q1: The Indian approach in nation building balances the principles of ________ and ________.
Ans: Unity, diversity.
The Indian approach in nation building balances the principles of unity, fostering a strong national identity, and diversity, preserving cultural richness.

Q2: Democracy allows the political expressions of ________ aspirations.
Ans: Regional.
Democracy allows the political expressions of regional aspirations, enabling diverse voices to be heard in the political process.

Q3: Jammu and Kashmir comprises three regions: Jammu, Kashmir, and ________.
Ans: Ladakh.
Jammu and Kashmir comprises three regions: Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, each with its unique characteristics.

Q4: Raja Hari Singh of Jammu and Kashmir signed the instrument of ________.
Ans: Accession.
Raja Hari Singh of Jammu and Kashmir signed the instrument of accession, officially making the region a part of India.

Q5: The demand for a separate Sikh identity led to the ________ Resolution in Punjab.
Ans: Anandpur Sahib.
The demand for a separate Sikh identity led to the Anandpur Sahib Resolution, which emphasized Sikh political and cultural aspirations in Punjab.

Q6: 'Operation Blue Star' took place in the ________ Temple in Amritsar.
Ans: Golden.
'Operation Blue Star' took place in the Golden Temple in Amritsar, which was marred by violence and Sikh sentiments.

Q7: The Mizo National Front (MNF) fought a guerrilla war and received support from ________.
Ans: Pakistani Government.
The Mizo National Front (MNF) fought a guerrilla war and received support from the Pakistani Government during their struggle for autonomy.

Q8: The Anandpur Sahib Resolution emphasized the dominance and supremacy of the ________.
Ans: Sikhs.
The Anandpur Sahib Resolution emphasized the dominance and supremacy of the Sikhs in Punjab, reflecting their political aspirations.

Q9: Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh were created by dividing the state of ________.
Ans: Assam.
Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh were created by dividing the state of Assam to address the cultural and political aspirations of various ethnic communities.

Q10: Goa, Daman, and Diu were liberated from Portuguese rule in the year ________.
Ans: 1961.
Goa, Daman, and Diu were liberated from Portuguese rule in the year 1961, showcasing India's commitment to anti-colonialism and territorial integrity.

Assertion and Reason Based

Q1: Assertion: Regional aspirations are essential in democratic politics.
Reason: They contribute to a sense of regional discrimination.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (a)
Regional aspirations are essential in democratic politics as they reflect the diverse needs and cultures within a nation. These aspirations, when unaddressed, can lead to a sense of regional discrimination, which in turn, fuels the demand for regional autonomy or identity.

Q2: Assertion: The Anandpur Sahib Resolution had a significant impact on the general Sikh community.
Reason: The resolution emphasized the aspirations of the Sikhs in Punjab.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (a)
The Anandpur Sahib Resolution indeed had a significant impact on the general Sikh community. The assertion is true because the resolution emphasized Sikh aspirations in Punjab, highlighting their political and cultural demands. The reason explains why the assertion is true.

Q3: Assertion: 'Operation Blue Star' led to the formation of a peaceful Mizoram.
Reason: The operation damaged the Golden Temple, hurting Sikh sentiments.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (b)
'Operation Blue Star' damaged the Golden Temple, which indeed hurt Sikh sentiments. However, it did not directly lead to the formation of a peaceful Mizoram. The formation of a peaceful Mizoram was a result of a peace accord signed between the government and the Mizo National Front (MNF) after the operation. The reason does not directly explain the assertion.

Q4: Assertion: The demand for autonomy in North-East India led to the creation of separate states.
Reason: The central government sought to satisfy the demand for autonomy by dividing Assam.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (a)
The demand for autonomy in North-East India indeed led to the creation of separate states. The central government, recognizing these demands, sought to satisfy them by dividing Assam into different states, such as Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh. The reason correctly explains why these separate states were created.

Q5: Assertion: Regional aspirations should be suppressed to maintain national integration.
Reason: Expression of regional issues is an abnormal phenomenon in democratic politics.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (d)
Regional aspirations should not be suppressed to maintain national integration. In democratic politics, expression of regional issues is not an abnormal phenomenon; it is a natural outcome of diverse cultures and identities within a nation. Acknowledging and addressing these issues through democratic negotiations is essential for a harmonious and integrated society.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: What are the two principles balanced in the Indian approach to nation building?
Ans: Unity and Diversity.

Q2: How does democracy accommodate regional aspirations?
Ans: Through decentralization and power-sharing mechanisms.

Q3: Name the three regions of Jammu and Kashmir.
Ans: Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Q4: What is the significance of the Anandpur Sahib Resolution?
Ans: It outlined the demands of the Sikhs and played a role in shaping Punjab politics.

Q5: Which operation aimed to flush out militants from the Golden Temple in Amritsar?
Ans: Operation Blue Star.

Q6: Which political party came to power in Punjab in 1985 after the anti-foreigner movement?
Ans: Shiromani Akali Dal.

Q7: Name the states created by dividing Assam in response to demands for autonomy.
Ans: Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Meghalaya.

Q8: What was the main demand of the leaders during the All Party Hills Conference?
Ans: Autonomy for the hill regions of Darjeeling.

Q9: What was the code name for the army action in the Golden Temple in 1984?
Ans: Operation Blue Star.

Q10: Which leader signed the Punjab Pact with Rajiv Gandhi in 1985?
Ans: Harchand Singh Longowal.

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the roots of the Kashmir issue and the events surrounding the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to India.
Ans: The Kashmir issue originated from the conflict between Raja Hari Singh of Jammu and Kashmir, who wanted independence, and Pakistan, which claimed the region due to its Muslim-majority population. Pakistan attacked Jammu and Kashmir in 1947, leading Hari Singh to seek help from India. He signed the instrument of accession, making Jammu and Kashmir a part of India. The promise of a plebiscite was made, but it has not been conducted to date. Jammu and Kashmir was given special rights under Article 370. Pakistan occupies parts of Jammu and Kashmir, known as Azad Kashmir or POK.

Q2: Describe the political turmoil in Jammu and Kashmir between 1953-1986.
Ans: Between 1953-1986, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed political turmoil. Sheikh Abdullah's National Conference party initially had influence, implementing land reforms. However, he was removed in 1953, leading to instability. The Congress had influence until 1974, when an agreement with Indira Gandhi made Sheikh Abdullah the Chief Minister. Political unrest continued, and autonomy under Article 370 sparked debates. Various leaders governed, but tensions persisted, leading to the alliance between Congress and National Conference in 1986.

Q3: Outline the factors that led to the Mizo insurgency and the subsequent peace accord.
Ans: The Mizo insurgency in Mizoram stemmed from dissatisfaction with the Assam government's response to a severe famine in 1959. The Mizo National Front (MNF) led by Laldenga initiated a guerrilla war, receiving support from Pakistan and shelter in East Pakistan. In 1986, a peace agreement was signed between Rajiv Gandhi and Laldenga. Mizoram was granted full-fledged statehood with special powers, and the MNF abandoned its secessionist struggle, leading to peace in the region.

Q4: Discuss the impact of the Assam movement of 1979-1985 against 'outsiders'.
Ans: The Assam movement from 1979-1985, led by the All Assam Students' Union (AASU), protested against 'outsiders' who entered the state after 1951. The movement demanded their deportation. Following its success, AASU and Asom Gana Sangram Parishad formed Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) in 1985. AGP promised to resolve the foreign national issue and build a 'Golden Assam.' The movement highlighted the conflict between local communities and perceived outsiders.

Q5: Explain the demands for autonomy in North-East India and the steps taken by the central government to address them.
Ans: At the time of independence, the North-East region was primarily called Assam. The demand for political autonomy led to the creation of Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh. Leaders of tribal communities formed organizations like the Eastern India Tribal Union, later evolving into the All Party Hills Conference. The central government responded by dividing Assam and creating separate states. However, demands for autonomy persisted, leading to further political reorganization and negotiations.

Q6: Analyze the significance of the Anandpur Sahib Resolution in Punjab's political history.
Ans: The Anandpur Sahib Resolution, passed in 1973, emphasized Sikh aspirations and proclaimed Sikh dominance in Punjab. It demanded political autonomy and control over Punjab's resources. Although it had limited impact initially, it highlighted Sikh sentiments. However, it did not gain widespread support among Sikhs, and its impact remained localized. The resolution was significant in shaping political discourse but did not lead to major political changes.

Q7: Detail the provisions of the Punjab Pact signed between Rajiv Gandhi and Harchand Singh Longowal.
Ans: The Punjab Pact, signed in July 1985 between Rajiv Gandhi and Harchand Singh Longowal, granted several concessions to Punjab. Chandigarh was given to Punjab, and a commission was appointed to resolve the border dispute between Haryana and Punjab. A tribunal was established to decide the sharing of Ravi and Beas river waters between Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. The pact aimed to address key issues and ease tensions in Punjab, fostering a sense of resolution.

Q8: How did the demand for autonomy in North-East India lead to the creation of separate states?
Ans: The demand for autonomy in North-East India led to the creation of separate states due to the diverse ethnic and cultural identities within the region. Different communities, such as the tribal groups, Bodo, Karbis, and Dimsas of Assam, sought separate states to preserve their distinct identities and cultural heritage. The central government responded by creating separate states like Meghalaya, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, and others, accommodating the regional aspirations of various communities within the North-East. The reorganization aimed to provide political autonomy and cultural preservation for these communities.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1: Discuss the challenges faced by India in balancing unity and diversity, with a focus on the Kashmir issue.
Ans: India's challenge lies in reconciling its diverse cultures and regions while maintaining national unity. The Kashmir issue exemplifies this challenge. The region's accession to India in 1947 led to ongoing disputes with Pakistan. The special status granted under Article 370 and promises of a plebiscite further complicated matters. India's approach, rooted in democratic principles, aimed to accommodate regional aspirations. However, insurgency and political unrest have persisted, reflecting the complexities of balancing unity and diversity. Despite challenges, India has demonstrated resilience by addressing the aspirations of different regions while upholding national integrity. The balance is crucial, as unity fosters a strong nation while embracing diversity ensures cultural richness and inclusivity.

Q2: Analyze the factors contributing to the political reorganization in North-East India and the significance of regional aspirations in the region's politics.
Ans: The political reorganization in North-East India was driven by diverse factors, including cultural diversity, ethnic tensions, and demands for autonomy. The Assam movement of 1979-1985 highlighted concerns about 'outsiders,' leading to the creation of separate states like Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh. Demand for autonomy by various tribal communities like Bodo and Karbis also played a pivotal role. The Mizo and Naga insurgencies emphasized regional identities, leading to peace accords. These changes reflected the significance of regional aspirations, ensuring diverse communities had political representation and cultural preservation. Accommodating these aspirations was essential for national integration, preventing secessionist movements. Democratic negotiations became a key strategy, showcasing India's commitment to unity through diversity.

Q3: Examine the role of democratic negotiations in addressing regional aspirations and maintaining national integration, citing examples from the given text.
Ans: Democratic negotiations play a crucial role in addressing regional aspirations, ensuring inclusive governance, and maintaining national integration. In the context of the given text, the Punjab Pact signed between Rajiv Gandhi and Harchand Singh Longowal exemplifies this approach. The agreement granted concessions, including Chandigarh to Punjab and resolving border disputes, addressing Sikh aspirations and easing tensions.
Similarly, in North-East India, democratic negotiations led to the creation of separate states like Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh, satisfying diverse ethnic groups' demands for autonomy. The peace accord with the Mizo National Front (MNF) in Mizoram showcased how democratic discussions resolved conflicts, granting Mizoram full-fledged statehood and special powers, fostering peace in the region.
These examples illustrate that democratic negotiations promote regional inclusivity, preserving cultural identities within the national framework, thereby ensuring sustainable national integration.

Q4: Evaluate the impact of the Goa liberation movement on India's political landscape, considering the challenges faced during the integration of Goa, Daman, and Diu.
Ans: The Goa liberation movement in 1961 had a significant impact on India's political landscape, symbolizing the nation's commitment to territorial integrity and anti-colonialism. The integration of Goa, Daman, and Diu posed challenges due to Portuguese resistance and international opinions. However, India's firm resolve and diplomacy led to successful liberation.
The integration demonstrated India's commitment to democratic values and peaceful resolution of territorial disputes. Despite international pressure, India's non-violent approach showcased its adherence to democratic principles. The successful integration bolstered national pride and highlighted India's diplomatic acumen, fostering international respect.
Internally, the assimilation of Goa, Daman, and Diu enriched India's cultural diversity. The region's unique heritage and traditions became an integral part of India's vibrant mosaic. This integration reinforced the nation's pluralistic ethos, celebrating diversity while upholding national unity. Goa's liberation stands as a testament to India's democratic ideals, shaping the nation's political landscape and exemplifying its commitment to democratic negotiations in resolving territorial disputes.