UKPSC 2016 Paper II

Points to Remember: Shah Jahan’s reign (1628-1658) witnessed significant advancements in education and literacy, particularly in Persian and Arabic. Patronage of scholars and the establishment of educational institutions were key features. While progress was made, literacy remained largely confined to the elite. Introduction: The Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s reign (1628-1658) is often remembered for its … Read more Write a brief note on Education and Literary Development under Shahjahan’s period.

Points to Remember: Key role of revolutionary movements in challenging colonial rule. Diverse strategies employed by revolutionaries. Limitations and controversies surrounding revolutionary actions. Long-term impact on the freedom struggle and post-independence India. Introduction: The Indian freedom struggle was a multifaceted movement encompassing diverse ideologies and strategies. While the mainstream Congress focused on non-violent resistance, a … Read more What is the contribution of the revolutionary movement in the freedom struggle?

Points to Remember: Political instability and internal conflicts External invasions and pressure Economic decline and resource depletion Loss of popular support and legitimacy Rise of new power centers Introduction: The Katyuri dynasty, ruling over Kumaon and parts of Garhwal in present-day Uttarakhand, India, from approximately the 8th to the 12th centuries CE, left a significant … Read more Discuss the causes for the downfall of the Katyuri Dynasty.

Points to Remember: The Indus Valley Civilization (IVC), also known as the Harappan Civilization, was one of the world’s earliest urban civilizations. Its geographical extent was vast and encompassed a significant portion of the Indian subcontinent. Understanding its expansion requires analyzing archaeological evidence, environmental factors, and potential socio-political structures. The decline of the civilization remains … Read more Discuss the geographical expansion of the Harappan Civilization.

Points to Remember: Megasthenes’ account of India is a primary source, albeit with limitations. His descriptions focus on the Mauryan Empire under Chandragupta Maurya. His work reveals aspects of Indian society, polity, economy, and social structures. Critical analysis is needed to separate fact from potential bias or exaggeration. Introduction: Megasthenes, a Greek ambassador to the … Read more Write an Essay on India as described by Megasthenes.

Points to Remember: The Muslim League’s initial aims were primarily focused on safeguarding Muslim interests within the broader Indian political landscape. Its aims evolved over time, influenced by political realities and changing leadership. The League’s ultimate aim, particularly in its later years, became the creation of a separate Muslim state (Pakistan). Introduction: The All-India Muslim … Read more What were the aims of the Muslim League at the time of its establishment?

Points to Remember: Origin and History of Garhwali Painting Characteristics of Garhwali Painting Themes and Subjects Depicted Materials and Techniques Used Present Status and Revival Efforts Introduction: Garhwali painting, a vibrant and largely unsung tradition, represents the rich artistic heritage of the Garhwal region in Uttarakhand, India. Unlike the more widely known Pahari schools of … Read more What do you know about ‘GARHWALI-PAINTING’?

Points to Remember: Date and location of the incident. Perpetrators and their motives. Casualties and impact. Immediate and long-term consequences. International response. Introduction: The Peshawar incident refers to the horrific terrorist attack on the Army Public School (APS) in Peshawar, Pakistan, on December 16, 2014. This attack, carried out by Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), remains one … Read more What was the ‘Peshawar incident’?

Points to Remember: Balban’s reign (1266-1287 CE) Emphasis on strong centralized rule Use of force and repression Impact on the Delhi Sultanate Long-term consequences Introduction: Ghiyasuddin Balban, the fourth Sultan of the Mamluk dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate, implemented a policy famously known as “Blood and Iron.” This wasn’t a codified policy document but rather … Read more What do you understand from Balban’s Policy of “Blood and Iron”?

Points to Remember: Noorjahan’s multifaceted contributions beyond music. Her patronage of arts and artists. Her social reforms (if any) and impact on women. Her cultural legacy and lasting influence. Introduction: Noorjahan (1893-1979), a legendary figure in the history of South Asian music, was far more than just a celebrated singer. Her influence extended significantly into … Read more Throw light on the Social and Cultural works of Noorjahan.