UKPSC 2016 Paper II

Points to Remember: Origin and geographical location of Thadya dance. Key characteristics of the dance form (costumes, music, movements). Cultural significance and social context. Current status and challenges faced by the dance form. Introduction: The Thadya dance is a vibrant folk dance form primarily associated with the tribal communities of Odisha, India. While precise origins … Read more Explain the ‘Thadya-Dance’.

Points to Remember: The Subsidiary Alliance was a key British policy in India during the 18th and 19th centuries. It involved Indian states entering into alliances with the British East India Company. The alliance came with conditions that often led to the erosion of Indian states’ sovereignty. Several Indian states accepted the Subsidiary Alliance, albeit … Read more Write the names of four States that accepted the ‘Subsidiary Alliance’.

Points to Remember: Definition of Local Self-Government (LSG) Key features of LSG Role of the Governor-General in establishing LSG in India Lord Ripon’s contribution to LSG Evolution and current status of LSG in India Introduction: Local Self-Government (LSG) refers to the system of governance at the grassroots level, empowering local communities to manage their own … Read more Define Local Self Government. Which Governor General is considered its main founder?

Points to Remember: The key concept is “Advaita Vedanta” and its origin. The question requires a factual approach, focusing on historical figures and philosophical lineages. The answer should identify the primary propagator and potentially mention significant contributors. Introduction: Advaita Vedanta, meaning “non-dualism,” is a major school of Vedanta philosophy within Hinduism. It emphasizes the oneness … Read more Who was the propagator of ‘Advaitism’?

Points to Remember: Mohamud Gawan’s dynasty association. Reasons for his fame. His contributions to the Bahmani Sultanate. Introduction: Mohamud Gawan (c. 1412 – 1481) was a highly influential and celebrated figure in the Deccan region of India during the late medieval period. He is primarily associated with the Bahmani Sultanate, a powerful independent Muslim kingdom … Read more Mohamud Gawan was associated with which dynasty and why did he become famous?

Points to Remember: The etymology and linguistic roots of “Balisadhak.” The historical and cultural context surrounding the term. Different interpretations and usages of the term, if any. The term’s relevance in contemporary society. Introduction: The question seeks a factual understanding of the term “Balisadhak.” This requires a primarily factual approach, drawing upon linguistic analysis and … Read more What is the meaning of ‘Balisadhak’?

Points to Remember: Bhaskaracharya’s contributions to mathematics and astronomy. His significant works, particularly Siddhānta Shiromani. His influence on subsequent mathematicians and astronomers. The historical context of his life and work. Introduction: Bhaskaracharya (c. 1114 – c. 1185 CE) was a prominent Indian mathematician and astronomer who made significant contributions to the fields of arithmetic, algebra, … Read more Who was Bhaskaracharya?

Points to Remember: Kumaramatya’s role in ancient Indian administration. Their selection process and qualifications. Their responsibilities and powers. Their relationship with the king and other officials. Their social and economic status. Introduction: The term “Kumaramatya” refers to a significant administrative position in ancient India, particularly during the Gupta period (c. 320-550 CE) and other subsequent … Read more Who were ‘Kumaramatya’?

Points to Remember: Qutubuddin Aibak’s title “Lakh Bakhsh” Reasons behind the title Aibak’s generosity and charitable acts Historical context of the title’s bestowal Introduction: Qutubuddin Aibak (c. 1150 – 1210 CE), the founder of the Delhi Sultanate, is famously known as “Lakh Bakhsh,” which translates from Persian as “giver of lakhs” or “giver of one … Read more Why is Qutubuddin Aibak called ‘Lakh Bakhsh’?