UKPSC 2012 Paper II

Points to Remember: Balban’s theory of Kingship emphasized absolute monarchy, awe and majesty, and a strong centralized state. It incorporated elements of both Islamic and pre-Islamic traditions. It had both positive and negative consequences for the Delhi Sultanate. Its long-term sustainability was questionable. Introduction: Ghiyasuddin Balban (r. 1266-1287 CE), the fourth Sultan of the Mamluk … Read more Evaluate Balban’s theory of Kingship.

Points to Remember: Agricultural productivity and revenue generation Trade and commerce (internal and external) Urbanization and infrastructure development Mining and resource extraction Social stratification and economic inequality Monetary system and fiscal policies Impact of warfare and political instability Introduction: The Vijayanagara Empire (1336-1646 CE) flourished in South India, leaving behind a rich legacy in architecture, … Read more Examine the economic condition of the Vijayanagar Empire.

Points to Remember: The Third Buddhist Council’s primary aim was to purify the Buddhist Sangha (monastic community) and establish a definitive version of Buddhist scriptures. The Council led to the standardization of Buddhist doctrines and practices. It played a crucial role in the spread and preservation of Buddhism. The Council’s outcomes had lasting impacts on … Read more Highlight the outcomes of the third Buddhist Council.

Points to Remember: The seven elements of Kautilya’s Saptāng theory: Swami, Amatya, Janapada, Durga, Kosha, Danda, and Mitra. Interdependence of the elements for a stable and prosperous kingdom. Relevance of the theory to modern governance and administration. Criticisms and limitations of the theory in a contemporary context. Introduction: Kautilya’s Arthashastra, a treatise on statecraft and … Read more Discuss the ‘Saptāng theory’ (seven limbs) of Kautilya’s Arthashāstra.

Points to Remember: Origin and historical significance of Jhanda Fair. Religious and cultural aspects of the fair. Economic impact and significance. Social aspects and challenges. Future prospects and sustainability. Introduction: Jhanda Fair, held annually in Sirsa, Haryana, India, is a significant socio-religious and economic event. While precise historical origins are debated, it’s understood to be … Read more Write a note on Jhanda fair.

Points to Remember: Mukundilal’s legal career and specialization. Notable cases or contributions to jurisprudence. His role in shaping legal discourse or public policy. Any significant awards, recognitions, or publications. His legacy and lasting impact on the legal profession. Introduction: Information regarding a barrister named “Mukundilal” is scarce in readily accessible public databases and legal archives. … Read more What do you know about Barrister Mukundilal?

Points to Remember: Origin and location of the Kalsi inscription. Script and language used. Content and historical significance. Comparison with other inscriptions of the same period. Scholarly interpretations and debates. Introduction: The Kalsi inscription, also known as the Kalsi Prasasti, is a significant historical record from the early Gupta period in India. Located in Dehradun … Read more Write a note on Kalsi inscription.

Points to Remember: Names of the Cabinet Mission members. Year of the Cabinet Mission’s arrival in India. Introduction: The Cabinet Mission, officially known as the British Cabinet Mission to India, was a high-level delegation sent by the British government to India in 1946 to negotiate the transfer of power from British rule to Indian self-governance. … Read more Name the members of the Cabinet Mission. Which year did it come to India?

Points to Remember: Key Players: The drafting committee of the Nehru Report. Core Recommendation: Dominion Status for India. Context: The political climate leading up to the report’s creation. Impact: The report’s influence on the Indian independence movement. Limitations: Shortcomings and criticisms of the report. Introduction: The Nehru Report, formally titled the “Report of the Committee … Read more Who prepared the Nehru report and what was its major recommendation?

Points to Remember: Key features: Establishment of a system of education in India, emphasis on English education, introduction of universities. Impact: Long-term influence on Indian education system, both positive and negative consequences. Context: British colonial rule in India, need for trained personnel for administration. Introduction: Wood’s Despatch, officially titled “Despatch on Public Instruction,” was a … Read more Write a note on Wood’s Despatch.