Welcome to “Set 14” of our “Indian History – UPSC MCQ Series”! This set is designed to rigorously test your understanding of various facets of Indian history, from ancient civilizations and empires to the complexities of the British colonial period and the freedom struggle. Explore questions on the unique characteristics of the Ajanta Caves, the political and social structures of ancient and medieval India, and the significant socio-religious reform movements that shaped modern Indian society. Delve into the details of British administrative policies, key nationalist leaders, and pivotal events that paved the way for India’s independence. This set is a comprehensive challenge for aspirants aiming for high-level historical knowledge.
Set 14
651. Consider the following statements regarding the Ajanta Caves:
- They are entirely Buddhist.
- Most belong to the Mahayana tradition.
- They contain both paintings and sculpture.
Which of the above statements are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D
Explanation: All three statements regarding the Ajanta Caves are correct.
- The Ajanta Caves are indeed entirely Buddhist, unlike the nearby Ellora Caves which feature Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut architecture.
- While some early caves (from the Satavahana period) belong to the Hinayana (Theravada) tradition, the majority and the most famous ones (from the Gupta period) depict themes and figures associated with the Mahayana tradition of Buddhism.
- The caves are renowned for their exquisite mural paintings depicting Jataka tales and Buddhist deities, as well as remarkable rock-cut sculptures of Buddha and Bodhisattvas.
652. Match the following Indian classical dance forms with their states of origin:
| Dance Form | State |
|---|---|
| A. Kathakali | 1. Kerala |
| B. Sattriya | 2. Assam |
| C. Kuchipudi | 3. Andhra Pradesh |
| D. Odissi | 4. Odisha |
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Choose the correct match:
A. A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
B. A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
C. A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
D. A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
Answer: A
Explanation: All the dance forms are correctly matched with their states of origin:
- A. Kathakali is a highly stylized classical Indian dance-drama from Kerala.
- B. Sattriya is a dance form originating from the monastic tradition (Sattras) of Assam.
- C. Kuchipudi is a classical dance style from Andhra Pradesh.
- D. Odissi is an ancient classical dance form originating from the temples of Odisha.
653. The ancient Tolkappiyam is associated with:
A. Tamil grammar
B. Buddhist ethics
C. Ayurvedic medicine
D. Astronomical calculations
Answer: A
Explanation: Tolkappiyam is the earliest extant work on Tamil grammar and a significant text of the Sangam literature. It provides insights into early Tamil language, literature, and social life.
654. The Great Bath excavated at Mohenjo-daro indicates:
A. Domestication of animals
B. Agricultural surplus
C. Ritualistic use of water
D. Bronze technology
Answer: C
Explanation: The Great Bath at Mohenjo-daro is a large, rectangular tank with steps leading down to it, made of brick and sealed with natural tar to prevent water leakage. Its unique construction and design, along with the absence of utilitarian features, strongly suggest its use for ritualistic bathing or religious ceremonies, rather than everyday bathing.
655. Consider the following statements regarding Indian temple architecture:
- Nagara style has a beehive-shaped shikhara.
- Dravida style features vimana and gopuram.
- Vesara is a mix of Nagara and Dravida.
Which is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. All three
Answer: D
Explanation: All three statements are correct regarding Indian temple architecture styles:
- The Nagara style (North Indian temple architecture) is characterized by a distinctive curvilinear or beehive-shaped shikhara (tower) rising over the sanctum sanctorum.
- The Dravida style (South Indian temple architecture) typically features a tiered pyramidal tower over the sanctum called a vimana, and grand, ornate entrance gateways known as gopurams.
- The Vesara style (found primarily in the Deccan region, e.g., by Chalukyas, Hoysalas) is a hybrid style that blends elements and characteristics of both the Nagara (North Indian) and Dravida (South Indian) architectural traditions.
656. Assertion (A): The Gupta period is called the “Golden Age” of Indian culture.
Reason (R): It saw excellence in art, literature, science, and polity.
A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation
B. A and R are true but R is not correct explanation
C. A is true, R is false
D. A is false, R is true
Answer: A
Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, and Reason (R) is the correct explanation for Assertion (A). The Gupta period (c. 320-550 CE) is widely referred to as the “Golden Age” of classical Indian culture because it witnessed unparalleled advancements and flourishing in various fields, including art (e.g., Ajanta murals, intricate sculptures), literature (e.g., Kalidasa, Sanskrit plays), science (e.g., Aryabhata, Varahamihira in mathematics and astronomy), and a stable, effective polity.
657. Which among the following dynasties extensively patronized Ajivika sect?
A. Satavahanas
B. Nandas
C. Mauryas
D. Shungas
Answer: C
Explanation: The Mauryan dynasty, particularly Emperor Ashoka and his grandson Dasharatha, are well-known for their patronage of the Ajivika sect. Ashoka donated the Barabar Caves, and Dasharatha donated the Nagarjuni Hills caves to Ajivika ascetics as dwelling places.
658. Match the following ancient texts with their content themes:
| Text | Theme |
|---|---|
| A. Ashtadhyayi | 1. Sanskrit Grammar |
| B. Charaka Samhita | 2. Ayurveda |
| C. Kalpasutra | 3. Jainism |
| D. Gita Govinda | 4. Bhakti Poetry |
A. A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
B. A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
C. A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4
D. A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
Answer: A
Explanation: All the given pairs are correctly matched:
- A. Ashtadhyayi: Authored by Panini, it is a foundational text of Sanskrit grammar.
- B. Charaka Samhita: An ancient Indian treatise on Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine).
- C. Kalpasutra: A Jain text that describes the biographies of Jain Tirthankaras and the rules of the Jain monastic order, thus primarily dealing with Jainism.
- D. Gita Govinda: A 12th-century Sanskrit poem by Jayadeva, known for its devotional Bhakti poetry centered on the divine love of Radha and Krishna.
659. The Abhidhamma Pitaka of Buddhist literature primarily deals with:
A. Monastic rules
B. Philosophical aspects of doctrine
C. Life of Buddha
D. Vinaya codes
Answer: B
Explanation: The Buddhist Pali Canon is divided into three main baskets (Pitakas):
- Vinaya Pitaka: Deals with monastic rules and regulations for monks and nuns.
- Sutta Pitaka: Contains the discourses and teachings of the Buddha.
- Abhidhamma Pitaka: The third and last Pitaka, it delves into the philosophical, psychological, and metaphysical aspects of Buddhist doctrine, analyzing the teachings in a more systematic and analytical manner.
660. The first census in British India was held in:
A. 1861
B. 1871
C. 1881
D. 1891
Answer: B
Explanation: The first (non-synchronous) census in British India was conducted between 1867 and 1872, often referenced as the 1871 census. This marked the beginning of modern census-taking in India, though it wasn’t fully synchronous across all regions. The first synchronous census was held in 1881. Given the options, 1871 is the correct choice for the initial census effort.
661. Which ancient Indian site is considered the earliest evidence of iron use?
A. Atranjikhera
B. Hastinapur
C. Daimabad
D. Brahmagiri
Answer: A
Explanation: The archaeological site of Atranjikhera in Uttar Pradesh is widely considered to provide some of the earliest evidence of iron use in India, with findings dating back to around 1200-1000 BCE.
662. Consider the following statements about ancient Indian education:
- Nalanda was a Mahayana Buddhist institution.
- Taxila was located in present-day Bihar.
- Vallabhi was known for Jain studies.
Which are correct?
A. 1 and 2
B. 1 and 3
C. 2 and 3
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
Explanation:
- Nalanda was indeed a renowned ancient center of learning, primarily a Mahayana Buddhist monastic university (Statement 1 is correct).
- Taxila (Takshashila) was an ancient city and a significant center of learning, but it was located in Gandhara, in present-day Pakistan, not Bihar (Statement 2 is incorrect).
- Vallabhi (in present-day Gujarat) was another important educational center, particularly known for its strong emphasis on Jain studies and Hinayana Buddhism (Statement 3 is correct).
Thus, statements 1 and 3 are correct.
663. Which inscription gives the most detailed account of Ashoka’s Dhamma?
A. Bhabru
B. Rock Edict XIII
C. Minor Rock Edict I
D. Pillar Edict VII
Answer: D
Explanation: While Rock Edict XIII provides a detailed account of Ashoka’s remorse after the Kalinga war and his conversion to Dhamma, Pillar Edict VII is considered the most comprehensive and detailed account of Ashoka’s Dhamma. In this edict, Ashoka summarizes his efforts to promote Dhamma, his philosophy, and his concern for the welfare of his subjects and all living beings.
664. Which of the following statements regarding Zabt system is not true?
A. It required annual land measurement
B. Implemented under Akbar
C. Cash revenue assessment
D. Followed in Deccan region
Answer: D
Explanation:
- A. It required annual land measurement: The Zabt system (also known as the Dahsala system or Todar Mal’s Bandobast) involved systematic measurement of land and classification of land quality for revenue assessment (True).
- B. Implemented under Akbar: This revenue system was a key administrative reform implemented during the reign of Emperor Akbar, under the guidance of his finance minister Todar Mal (True).
- C. Cash revenue assessment: Revenue was assessed as a share of the average produce over ten years, converted into cash based on local prices (True).
- D. Followed in Deccan region: The Zabt system was primarily implemented in the core Mughal territories in North India and parts of Central India. It was generally not followed extensively in the Deccan region, where different and often less centralized revenue systems prevailed (Not true).
665. The language of administration under the Delhi Sultanate was:
A. Arabic
B. Sanskrit
C. Persian
D. Turkish
Answer: C
Explanation: The Delhi Sultanate rulers, being of Turko-Afghan origin, adopted Persian as their official court and administrative language. Persian remained the dominant language of administration and high culture throughout the Sultanate period and continued into the Mughal era.
666. Who among the following translated Kalhana’s Rajatarangini into Persian?
A. Alberuni
B. Abul Fazl
C. Jonaraja
D. Haidar Malik
Answer: D
Explanation: Haidar Malik was a Kashmiri noble and historian during the reign of the Mughal emperor Jahangir. He translated Kalhana’s Rajatarangini (a chronicle of the kings of Kashmir) into Persian. Jonaraja wrote a continuation of Kalhana’s work in Sanskrit.
667. The Delhi Sultanate introduced a new architectural feature called:
A. Shikhara
B. Jharokha
C. True Arch
D. Garbhagriha
Answer: C
Explanation: The Delhi Sultanate brought with it Islamic architectural styles, which prominently featured the use of the true arch and dome construction techniques. This was a significant departure from earlier Indian architectural styles, which predominantly used corbelling (overlapping stones) to create arches.
668. The Madurai Sultanate was established by:
A. Malik Kafur
B. Alauddin Khalji
C. Jalaluddin Ahsan Shah
D. Khilji generals
Answer: C
Explanation: The Madurai Sultanate was established by Jalaluddin Ahsan Shah in 1335. He was a governor under Muhammad bin Tughlaq who declared his independence in Ma’bar (the Coromandel coast region, with Madurai as its center) during the decline of the Delhi Sultanate.
669. The term “Bandagan” during the Delhi Sultanate referred to:
A. Foreign traders
B. Royal courtiers
C. Military slaves
D. Tax collectors
Answer: C
Explanation: During the Delhi Sultanate, the term “Bandagan” (plural of Bandagan, a Persian term) referred to a special category of military slaves. These slaves, often of Turkish or other foreign origin, were purchased by the sultans, trained extensively in statecraft and military arts, and then appointed to high administrative and military positions, as they were perceived to be loyal solely to their masters.
670. Consider the following statements regarding Vijayanagara administration:
- It had a centralized bureaucracy.
- Nayankara system was similar to jagirdari.
- Temples acted as economic centers.
Which are correct?
A. 1 and 2
B. 2 and 3
C. 1 and 3
D. All three
Answer: B
Explanation:
- The Vijayanagara administration was characterized by a more decentralized system with considerable power vested in regional military chiefs (Nayakas) rather than a highly centralized bureaucracy (Statement 1 is incorrect).
- The Nayankara system was a key feature where military chiefs (Nayakas) were granted land (or revenue from land) in exchange for military service and maintaining troops for the king. This system bears similarities to the Mughal jagirdari system (Statement 2 is correct).
- Temples in the Vijayanagara Empire were not merely religious centers but also played a vital role as economic, social, and administrative centers, managing land, employing people, and facilitating trade (Statement 3 is correct).
Thus, statements 2 and 3 are correct.
671. Assertion (A): The Mughal mansabdari system faced challenges under Aurangzeb.
Reason (R): Expansion without revenue increase led to corruption and inefficiency.
A. Both A and R are true and R is correct explanation
B. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation
C. A is true, R is false
D. A is false, R is true
Answer: A
Explanation: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, and Reason (R) is the correct explanation for Assertion (A). The Mughal mansabdari and jagirdari systems did face a severe crisis under Aurangzeb. His prolonged military campaigns, especially in the Deccan, led to a significant increase in the number of mansabdars, but without a proportional increase in available revenue-yielding lands (jagirs). This created a shortage of jagirs, leading to delays in assignments, competition among nobles, and a decline in revenue, which in turn fostered corruption, inefficiency, and weakened the military effectiveness of the mansabdars, ultimately contributing to the decline of the empire.
672. Which of the following features of British Indian economy in the 19th century is not correct?
A. Deindustrialization
B. Drain of Wealth
C. Industrial Revolution in India
D. Commercialization of agriculture
Answer: C
Explanation:
- A. Deindustrialization: The 19th century British rule led to the deindustrialization of India, as traditional Indian crafts and industries (especially textiles) declined due to competition from machine-made British goods and discriminatory policies (Correct).
- B. Drain of Wealth: A significant feature was the drain of wealth from India to Britain, through various means like remittances by British officials, home charges, and profits from trade (Correct).
- C. Industrial Revolution in India: India did not experience an Industrial Revolution in the 19th century. Instead, it served as a supplier of raw materials and a market for British manufactured goods. Industrialization in India began much later (Incorrect).
- D. Commercialization of agriculture: There was a shift towards commercialization of agriculture, where peasants were increasingly forced to cultivate cash crops (like indigo, cotton, jute) for the British market, often at the expense of food crops (Correct).
Therefore, “Industrial Revolution in India” is not a correct feature of the British Indian economy in the 19th century.
673. The Environmental Movement in the Bishnoi region (1730 AD) was led by:
A. Guru Jambheshwar
B. Amrita Devi
C. Raja Surajmal
D. Jassa Singh
Answer: B
Explanation: The Bishnoi movement of 1730 AD, a seminal event in environmental history, was led by Amrita Devi. She, along with 362 other Bishnoi villagers, sacrificed their lives to protect sacred Khejri trees from being felled by the Marwari king’s soldiers in Khejarli, Rajasthan. Guru Jambheshwar was the founder of the Bishnoi sect (15th century), which preaches respect for nature.
674. The Chipko Movement was first launched in:
A. Himachal Pradesh
B. Uttarakhand (Tehri-Garhwal)
C. Assam
D. Arunachal Pradesh
Answer: B
Explanation: The Chipko Movement, a non-violent social and ecological movement by rural villagers, particularly women, to protect trees from logging, originated in the early 1970s in the Garhwal Himalayas, specifically in the Chamoli district (and later Tehri-Garhwal district), which is now part of Uttarakhand (formerly part of Uttar Pradesh).
675. Match the following revolutionary activities with their slogans:
| Slogan | Associated Person |
|---|---|
| A. Vande Mataram | 1. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay |
| B. Inquilab Zindabad | 2. Bhagat Singh |
| C. Jai Hind | 3. Subhas Chandra Bose |
| D. Swaraj is my birthright | 4. Bal Gangadhar Tilak |
A. A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
B. A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
C. A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4
D. A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4
Answer: A
Explanation: All the pairs are correctly matched:
- A. Vande Mataram: The patriotic song and slogan “Vande Mataram” was authored by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay as part of his novel Anandamath.
- B. Inquilab Zindabad: The revolutionary slogan “Inquilab Zindabad” (Long Live the Revolution) was popularized by Bhagat Singh and his comrades.
- C. Jai Hind: The greeting and slogan “Jai Hind” (Victory to India) was widely adopted and popularized by Subhas Chandra Bose as the war cry of the Indian National Army (INA).
- D. Swaraj is my birthright: The famous declaration “Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it!” was made by Bal Gangadhar Tilak.
676. The Harappan site known for water management and reservoirs is:
A. Mohenjo-daro
B. Dholavira
C. Kalibangan
D. Lothal
Answer: B
Explanation: The Harappan site of Dholavira in Gujarat is particularly renowned for its sophisticated and elaborate water management system, which included a series of interconnected reservoirs, dams, and channels designed to harvest rainwater and manage seasonal streams.
677. The term “Varnasrama Dharma” is associated with:
A. Buddhism
B. Jainism
C. Bhakti Movement
D. Hindu Social Order
Answer: D
Explanation: The term “Varnasrama Dharma” refers to the traditional Hindu social order and moral code. It combines two concepts: ‘Varna’ (the four social classes or castes – Brahmana, Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra) and ‘Ashrama’ (the four stages of life – Brahmacharya, Grihastha, Vanaprastha, Sanyasa). It prescribes duties and responsibilities based on one’s social class and stage of life.
678. The first Bhakti saint to use Hindi extensively was:
A. Kabir
B. Ramananda
C. Namdev
D. Surdas
Answer: B
Explanation: While many Bhakti saints composed in various vernacular languages, Ramananda (14th-15th century) is considered the first great Bhakti saint of North India who extensively used and popularized his teachings through Hindi (specifically, various dialects of it), making the movement accessible to a wider audience. He also drew disciples from all castes.
679. The Ajivika sect believed in:
A. Karma and rebirth
B. Atheism and determinism
C. Non-violence
D. Worship of Vishnu
Answer: B
Explanation: The Ajivika sect was an ancient Indian heterodox school of thought founded by Makkhali Gosala. Their core belief was in Niyati (destiny) or absolute determinism, meaning that everything is predetermined and human effort has no bearing on destiny. They were also largely atheistic, not believing in a creator god, and challenged the efficacy of Vedic rituals.
680. The “Saptanga Theory of State” was explained in:
A. Arthashastra
B. Manusmriti
C. Mahabharata
D. Digha Nikaya
Answer: A
Explanation: The “Saptanga Theory of State” (Seven Limbs of the State) is a fundamental concept in ancient Indian political thought. It was most systematically and comprehensively explained by Kautilya (Chanakya) in his treatise, the Arthashastra. The seven limbs are Swamin (the king), Amatya (ministers), Janapada (territory and people), Durga (fortified capital), Kosha (treasury), Danda (army), and Mitra (allies).
681. The Bhagavata cult is associated with:
A. Shaivism
B. Vaishnavism
C. Buddhism
D. Jainism
Answer: B
Explanation: The Bhagavata cult is an ancient devotional tradition that emerged in India, centered on the worship of Bhagavan, which primarily refers to Vishnu and his various incarnations, especially Krishna. Thus, it is closely associated with the development of Vaishnavism.
682. The terms Anuloma and Pratiloma were used in ancient India for:
A. Architecture
B. Trade practices
C. Types of marriages
D. Vedic sacrifices
Answer: C
Explanation: In ancient Indian social structure, Anuloma and Pratiloma referred to specific types of marriages based on varna (caste) differences:
- Anuloma (literally “with the hair/grain”): A marriage where a man of a higher varna married a woman of a lower varna. These were generally accepted.
- Pratiloma (literally “against the hair/grain”): A marriage where a woman of a higher varna married a man of a lower varna. These were generally condemned and considered undesirable.
683. The Tughlaq ruler who introduced token currency was:
A. Firoz Shah
B. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq
C. Muhammad bin Tughlaq
D. Nasiruddin
Answer: C
Explanation: Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq (reigned 1325–1351) famously experimented with a token currency system. He issued brass and copper coins with the same value as silver coins, aiming to overcome the shortage of silver. However, due to widespread counterfeiting and a lack of public trust, the experiment failed disastrously.
684. The main feature of the Iqta system was:
A. Tax collection in kind
B. Hereditary revenue assignment
C. Transferable revenue assignment in lieu of salary
D. Military grant to Brahmins
Answer: C
Explanation: The Iqta system was an administrative and land revenue system introduced by the Delhi Sultans. Its main feature was the granting of revenue assignments (iqtas) to military commanders and officials in lieu of cash salaries. The Iqta holder (Iqtadar or Muqti) was responsible for collecting revenue from the assigned area and maintaining a contingent of troops for the Sultan. These assignments were generally transferable and not hereditary, to prevent the growth of powerful local hereditary chiefs.
685. The Amir Khusrau was associated with the court of:
A. Balban
B. Alauddin Khalji
C. Muhammad bin Tughlaq
D. All of the above
Answer: D
Explanation: Amir Khusrau, the renowned Sufi musician, poet, and scholar, was a prominent figure in the Delhi Sultanate. He lived through the reigns of several sultans from the Mamluk (Slave), Khalji, and Tughlaq dynasties, serving in the courts of Balban, Alauddin Khalji, Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, and Muhammad bin Tughlaq, among others. He is often referred to as the “voice of India” or “Parrot of India.”
686. The Battle of Talikota (1565) led to the fall of:
A. Vijayanagara Empire
B. Bahmani Kingdom
C. Mughal rule in Deccan
D. Golconda Sultanate
Answer: A
Explanation: The Battle of Talikota, fought in 1565, was a decisive military engagement between the Vijayanagara Empire and a confederacy of four Deccan Sultanates (Ahmednagar, Bidar, Bijapur, and Golconda). The Vijayanagara forces suffered a crushing defeat, which led to the sacking of its capital Hampi and marked the effective fall of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire.
687. The term “Mansab” in Mughal administration indicated:
A. Number of soldiers under a noble
B. Salary grade
C. Land ownership
D. Civil jurisdiction
Answer: A
Explanation: In the Mughal administration, the “Mansab” was a system of grading and rank. It indicated the number of soldiers (horsemen) a noble (mansabdar) was expected to maintain or, more broadly, his rank in the official hierarchy, his status, and his salary. While it determined the salary (B), its primary indication was the military obligation/rank, which then led to the corresponding salary. Therefore, ‘number of soldiers under a noble’ (A) is a more direct indicator of what the Mansab represented as a military-administrative rank.
688. The Battle of Haldighati (1576) was fought between:
A. Akbar and Rana Pratap
B. Humayun and Sher Shah
C. Babur and Rana Sanga
D. Jahangir and Malik Ambar
Answer: A
Explanation: The Battle of Haldighati was fought in 1576 between the Mughal forces, led by Raja Man Singh I of Amber (representing Emperor Akbar), and the forces of Maharana Pratap of Mewar.
689. Shivaji’s Ashtapradhan included:
A. Eight military commanders
B. Eight ministers handling civil, military, and financial matters
C. Religious priests
D. Revenue clerks
Answer: B
Explanation: Shivaji’s Ashtapradhan (Council of Eight Ministers) was an administrative system where the Maratha ruler was assisted by a council of eight ministers, each in charge of a specific department, covering civil administration, military affairs, finance, justice, foreign affairs, etc. They were not merely military commanders or clerks but held significant portfolios.
690. The Guru who compiled Adi Granth was:
A. Guru Nanak
B. Guru Ram Das
C. Guru Arjan Dev
D. Guru Teg Bahadur
Answer: C
Explanation: Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth of the Sikh Gurus, was responsible for the compilation of the Adi Granth, the holy scripture of Sikhism, in 1604. He included the teachings of the previous Gurus and his own compositions, along with selected verses from Hindu and Muslim saints.
691. The Battle of Plassey (1757) led to:
A. British supremacy in Bengal
B. French exit from India
C. Establishment of British East India Company
D. End of Mughal Empire
Answer: A
Explanation: The Battle of Plassey (1757) was a pivotal event in Indian history. It led to the decisive victory of the British East India Company over the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah. This victory effectively established British political and economic supremacy in Bengal, paving the way for their eventual dominance over the rest of India. It did not directly lead to the French exit (which was cemented after the Battle of Wandiwash) or the end of the Mughal Empire (which formally continued until 1857).
692. The Dual System of Governance in Bengal was introduced by:
A. Warren Hastings
B. Lord Cornwallis
C. Robert Clive
D. Lord Dalhousie
Answer: C
Explanation: The Dual System of Governance in Bengal was introduced by Robert Clive after the Battle of Buxar (1764) and the Treaty of Allahabad (1765). Under this system, the East India Company acquired the Diwani (right to collect revenue) of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa, while the Nizamat (administrative and judicial authority) remained with the Nawab, though effectively controlled by the Company. This system led to widespread exploitation and misgovernance.
693. The Treaty of Allahabad (1765) was signed between:
A. Clive and Shuja-ud-Daula
B. Hastings and Awadh
C. Lord Wellesley and Tipu Sultan
D. Clive and Shah Alam II
Answer: D
Explanation: The Treaty of Allahabad (1765) was signed after the Battle of Buxar. It involved two separate treaties: one between Robert Clive (representing the British East India Company) and the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II, and another between Clive and Shuja-ud-Daula (Nawab of Awadh). The most significant aspect was the grant of Diwani rights of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa to the Company by Shah Alam II. Therefore, the most comprehensive answer relating to the central figure is D.
694. “Diwani” rights refer to:
A. Civil administration
B. Revenue collection
C. Military command
D. Judicial authority
Answer: B
Explanation: In the context of British colonial administration in India, “Diwani” rights referred specifically to the right to collect revenue (land revenue and other taxes) and administer civil justice in a given territory. The British East India Company gained Diwani rights over Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa in 1765.
695. The Charter Act of 1813 abolished:
A. Governor-General post
B. Company’s trade monopoly in India
C. Zamindari system
D. Doctrine of Lapse
Answer: B
Explanation: The Charter Act of 1813 was a significant step in the evolution of British rule in India. It primarily abolished the East India Company’s trade monopoly in India, opening up trade to all British merchants, though the Company retained its monopoly on the tea trade and trade with China for another 20 years.
696. The Ryotwari system was introduced in:
A. Bengal
B. Madras and Bombay
C. Punjab
D. Awadh
Answer: B
Explanation: The Ryotwari system of land revenue settlement was primarily introduced in the early 19th century in the Madras and Bombay Presidencies, and later extended to parts of Assam and Coorg. Under this system, the revenue was collected directly from the cultivators (ryots).
697. The Indigo Revolt (1859–60) was led by:
A. Peasants and zamindars
B. Tribal chiefs
C. Brahmin leaders
D. European planters
Answer: A
Explanation: The Indigo Revolt of 1859-60 was a major uprising by peasants (ryots) in Bengal against the oppressive practices of European indigo planters who forced them to cultivate indigo at uneconomic prices. While it was primarily a peasant-led movement, it received support from some local zamindars, intellectuals, and missionaries who sympathized with the peasants’ plight. Therefore, “Peasants and zamindars” (A) might encompass the broader support, though the core leadership and resistance came from the cultivators themselves.
698. The famous novel “Nil Darpan” was written by:
A. Bankim Chandra
B. Dinabandhu Mitra
C. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
D. Tagore
Answer: B
Explanation: The Bengali play “Nil Darpan” (The Indigo Mirror) was written by Dinabandhu Mitra in 1860. It graphically depicted the brutal exploitation and atrocities committed by European indigo planters on Indian peasants, playing a significant role in raising awareness about the Indigo Revolt.
699. The Faraizi Movement among Muslims was started by:
A. Syed Ahmed Khan
B. Haji Shariatullah
C. Maulana Azad
D. Shah Waliullah
Answer: B
Explanation: The Faraizi Movement was a socio-religious reform movement among Muslims in Eastern Bengal in the early 19th century. It was started by Haji Shariatullah, who emphasized the strict observance of Islamic duties (faraiz) and aimed to purify Islam from un-Islamic practices.
700. The Deoband Movement emphasized:
A. Armed revolt
B. Modern secular education
C. Orthodox Islamic teachings
D. Shia doctrines
Answer: C
Explanation: The Deoband Movement (founded in 1866 at Deoband, Uttar Pradesh) was an Islamic revivalist movement. It primarily emphasized the importance of orthodox Islamic teachings, the study of traditional Islamic sciences (Quran, Hadith, Fiqh), and resistance to Western influences, aiming to reform the Muslim community from within. It largely focused on religious education rather than armed revolt or modern secular education.