CBSE Class 12 Political Science Question Paper 2026 with Solution Pdf - Set 1 : Available Here

Step 1: Analyze Assertion

India adopted the planning model after independence, and it was indeed inspired by the centralized planning system of the Soviet Union. Hence, Assertion (A) is true.

Step 2: Analyze Reason

The 'Plan Holiday' (1966–1969) was introduced due to economic crisis, wars, and drought conditions. Hence, Reason (R) is also true.

Step 3: Check relationship

However, the reason given (economic crisis leading to plan holiday) has no connection with why India adopted Five Year Plans initially. Therefore, it does not explain the assertion.

Final Answer: (B) Quick Tip: In Assertion-Reason questions: first check truth of both, then check if Reason explains Assertion.

Step 1: Understand traditional security

Traditional security refers to military threats, wars, and conflicts between nation-states.

Step 2: Evaluate options

(A) Russia–Ukraine War → military conflict → traditional security ✔

(B) Climate change → environmental issue → non-traditional ✘

(C) 9/11 attack → terrorism → non-traditional ✘

(D) COVID-19 → health crisis → non-traditional ✘

Final Answer: (A) Quick Tip: Traditional security mainly deals with military threats, wars, and conflicts between states, while non-traditional security includes issues like climate change, health crises, and terrorism.

Step 1: Recall facts

The First Five Year Plan (1951–56) mainly focused on agriculture, irrigation, and rural development.

The Second Five Year Plan (1956–61) emphasized rapid industrialization based on the Mahalanobis model.

Step 2: Evaluate options

(A) Correct ✔ — The first plan was drafted by K.N. Raj and the second by P.C. Mahalanobis.

(B) Correct ✔ — The first plan emphasized agriculture, while the second focused on industries.

(C) Correct ✔ — Public sector expansion and large-scale industrialization were key elements of the second plan.

(D) Incorrect ✘ — It wrongly states that the first plan focused on raising industrial production.

Final Answer: (D) Quick Tip: A simple way to remember: First Five Year Plan focused on agriculture and rural development, while the Second Five Year Plan emphasized heavy industries and industrial growth.

Step 1: Recall Baltic states

The Baltic republics were part of the former Soviet Union and are located along the Baltic Sea in Northern Europe.

Step 2: List them

The three Baltic republics are:
- Estonia

- Latvia

- Lithuania

Step 3: Evaluate options

Only option (A) correctly includes all three Baltic republics.

Final Answer: (A) Quick Tip: Baltic States are three countries located on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea: Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

Step 1: Analyze Statement I

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) supervises the global financial system, provides financial assistance to countries facing economic crises, and monitors international financial stability. Therefore, Statement I is true.

Step 2: Analyze Statement II

In the IMF, voting power is determined by the quota assigned to each member country, which is based on its economic strength. Hence, all members do not have equal voting power. Therefore, Statement II is false.

Step 3: Conclusion

Statement I is true, but Statement II is false.

Final Answer: (C) Quick Tip: In the IMF, voting power depends on the economic quota of member countries, so richer economies have greater influence.

Step 1: Understand concept

Co-operative security refers to collaboration among multiple countries to address shared security challenges, especially non-traditional threats such as climate change, terrorism, and pandemics.

Step 2: Evaluate options

(A) Limited to developed countries → incorrect ✘

(B) Refers to NATO military alliance → not the general meaning of cooperative security ✘

(C) Focuses on internal security within a single state → not cooperative ✘

(D) Joint participation of multiple countries for common solutions → correct ✔

Final Answer: (D) Quick Tip: Co-operative security means countries working together to address shared global threats.

Step 1: Concept

Veto power refers to the authority that allows a country to block or reject a resolution, even if all other members support it.

Step 2: Key fact

In the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), only the five permanent members — USA, UK, Russia, China, and France — possess veto power.

Step 3: Evaluate options

(A) Incorrect → Veto is not a positive voting power; it is the power to block decisions. ✘

(B) Correct ✔

(C) Temporary members of the UNSC do not have veto power. ✘

(D) Not all UNSC members possess veto power. ✘

Final Answer: (B) Quick Tip: Only the five permanent members (P5) of the UNSC have veto power: USA, UK, Russia, China, and France.

Step 1: Historical context

Rajiv Gandhi was campaigning for the 1991 general elections when he was assassinated.

Step 2: Location

The assassination occurred at Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu on 21 May 1991 during an election rally.

Step 3: Conclusion

Therefore, Tamil Nadu was the last state toured by Rajiv Gandhi for his election campaign.

Final Answer: (A) Quick Tip: Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated in 1991 at Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu during an election campaign.

Step 1: Understand Shock Therapy

Shock Therapy refers to the rapid transition from a socialist economy to a capitalist market economy in the former Soviet Union and Eastern European countries during the 1990s.

Step 2: Effects

- The value of the rouble declined sharply ✔

- The regional economy experienced severe crisis and instability ✔

- The collective farming system collapsed ✔

- Social welfare systems weakened rather than strengthened ✔

Step 3: Identify incorrect statement

Option (C) states that the system of social welfare got strengthened, which is incorrect because social welfare provisions actually declined.

Final Answer: (C) Quick Tip: Shock Therapy led to rapid privatization, economic instability, decline of welfare systems, and collapse of collective farming.

Step 1: Identify years

(iv) Keshavananda Bharati case → 1973

(ii) Railway strike led by George Fernandes → 1974

(i) National Emergency declared in India → 1975

(iii) Sixth General Election held in India → 1977

Step 2: Arrange chronologically

1973 → 1974 → 1975 → 1977

Step 3: Match with option

(iv), (ii), (i), (iii)

Final Answer: (A) Quick Tip: Remember the sequence: Basic Structure case (1973) → Railway Strike (1974) → Emergency (1975) → Sixth General Election (1977).

Step 1: Recall alliances

United Progressive Alliance (UPA) governed India from 2004 to 2014, completing two consecutive terms.

National Democratic Alliance (NDA) formed governments in 1998–2004 and again from 2014 onwards.

Step 2: Compare frequency

Among the given alliances, the NDA has formed the central government the maximum number of times.

Final Answer: (D) Quick Tip: NDA has been the most frequent ruling coalition at the centre, with governments in 1998–2004 and again from 2014 onward.

Explanation:


Non-traditional security refers to threats that are not military in nature but still affect the survival, well-being, and development of people and societies.

Some major threats to non-traditional security are:

1. Climate Change – Causes global warming, rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation.


2. Terrorism – Creates fear, instability, and violence that threaten social and political stability.


3. Pandemics (e.g., COVID-19) – Spread of infectious diseases can disrupt healthcare systems, economies, and normal life across the world.


4. Food Insecurity – Lack of adequate food supply can lead to hunger, malnutrition, and social conflict.


5. Cyber Security Threats – Cyber attacks, hacking, and data breaches can harm national infrastructure and security.

Final Answer: Any four of the above threats. Quick Tip: Non-traditional security threats include issues related to environment, health, terrorism, food, and cyber security.

Explanation:


Outside powers such as the United States, China, and Russia have played an important role in shaping the political, economic, and strategic developments of South Asian countries.

Key Impacts:


1. Political Influence – Major powers often influence domestic politics by supporting certain governments or political groups in South Asian countries.


2. Economic Assistance and Investment – External powers provide financial aid, loans, and investments. For example, China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has funded several infrastructure projects in the region.


3. Military Support and Strategic Alliances – Outside powers supply arms, provide military training, and form strategic partnerships, which affect the regional balance of power.


4. Impact on Regional Conflicts – External involvement sometimes intensifies or prolongs conflicts in the region, such as in Afghanistan.

Conclusion:

The involvement of outside powers brings economic opportunities and development, but it can also increase dependency and create geopolitical tensions in South Asia. Quick Tip: Outside powers influence South Asia through political support, economic aid, military alliances, and involvement in regional conflicts.

Explanation:


The North-East region of India has a unique geographical location. It is connected to the rest of the country by a narrow strip of land known as the Siliguri Corridor, often called the “Chicken’s Neck”. This geographical condition has influenced the expression of regional demands in the region.

Impacts of Geography:


1. Geographical Isolation – The region’s distance from mainland India and limited connectivity create a feeling of neglect and alienation among the people.


2. Ethnic and Cultural Diversity – The region is home to numerous tribes and ethnic groups with distinct languages and traditions, leading to strong regional identities and demands for autonomy.


3. International Borders – The North-East shares borders with China, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Bhutan, which raises security concerns and influences political dynamics.


4. Economic and Developmental Challenges – Hilly terrain and poor connectivity hinder infrastructure development and economic growth, leading to demands for greater development and government support.

Conclusion:

Due to these geographical and socio-cultural factors, the North-East region has witnessed demands for autonomy, greater political representation, economic development, and protection of cultural identity. Quick Tip: Major factors behind North-East regional demands include geographical isolation, ethnic diversity, border location, and developmental challenges.

Introduction:

Refugees and migrants both move from one place to another, but their reasons for movement and legal status are different.

Differences:


1. Reason for Movement:

Refugees are forced to leave their country due to war, persecution, or violence. Migrants move voluntarily, usually for better economic opportunities, education, or living conditions.


2. Legal Protection:

Refugees receive protection under international law, such as the UN Refugee Convention. Migrants are governed by the immigration laws of the country they move to and do not have the same international protection.

Conclusion:

Thus, refugees are people who are forced to migrate and are protected by international law, whereas migrants generally move by choice for economic or social reasons. Quick Tip: Refugees = forced migration with legal protection; Migrants = voluntary movement mainly for economic reasons.

Introduction:

The Janata Party was formed in 1977 by merging several opposition parties to challenge the Congress Party after the Emergency period.

Constituent Parties:


1. Bharatiya Lok Dal

2. Congress (O)

3. Bharatiya Jana Sangh

4. Socialist Party


Conclusion:

These parties united to form the Janata Party and successfully formed the government after the 1977 general elections. Quick Tip: Janata Party was formed by the merger of several anti-Emergency opposition parties in 1977.

Introduction:

After 1989, Indian politics witnessed the emergence of coalition governments due to major political changes in the country.

Main Reasons:


1. Decline of Congress Dominance:

The Congress Party gradually lost its position as the dominant political party, resulting in no single party gaining a clear majority in elections.


2. Rise of Regional Parties:

Regional political parties gained strength and began representing local interests, making coalition politics necessary.


3. Social and Political Diversity:

India’s diverse society with different caste, regional, and linguistic groups demanded greater representation in governance.


4. Acceptance of Coalition Politics:

Political parties increasingly cooperated and formed alliances to achieve a majority and form stable governments.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the decline of single-party dominance and the rise of regional parties were the main reasons behind the formation of coalition governments after 1989. Quick Tip: Post-1989 politics in India is marked by coalition governments due to fragmented mandates and the rise of regional parties.

Introduction:

Indian politics has evolved from a phase of single-party dominance in the early years after independence to coalition-based governance after 1989.

Differences:


1. Nature of Government:

During the first three general elections, the government was formed by a single dominant party (Indian National Congress).

After 1989, governments were mostly formed through coalitions of multiple parties.


2. Stability of Government:

Earlier governments were relatively stable because a single party had a clear majority.

Coalition governments are often less stable due to dependence on several parties.


3. Decision-Making Process:

In the early period, decisions were taken quickly by the ruling party.

In coalition governments, decisions require consultation and agreement among coalition partners.


4. Representation of Interests:

Earlier governments had limited representation of regional interests.

Coalition governments provide greater representation to regional and smaller parties.

Conclusion:

Coalition governments reflect the political diversity of India, though they require cooperation and compromise among multiple political parties. Quick Tip: Early Indian politics = single-party dominance; Post-1989 politics = coalition era with regional party influence.

Introduction:

Mikhail Gorbachev introduced reforms such as Glasnost (openness) and Perestroika (restructuring) to revive the Soviet political and economic system.

Reasons for Failure:


1. Economic Weakness:

The Soviet economy was already facing severe problems. Instead of improving the situation, the reforms created economic instability and shortages.


2. Rise of Nationalism:

Various republics within the Soviet Union began demanding independence, which weakened the unity of the federation.


3. Political Liberalization:

Glasnost allowed freedom of expression, which led to widespread criticism of the government and the Communist Party.


4. Decline of Communist Party Control:

The authority of the Communist Party weakened, leading to political fragmentation and loss of central control.

Conclusion:

Thus, instead of strengthening the Soviet system, these reforms accelerated political instability and contributed to the disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1991. Quick Tip: Gorbachev's reforms—Glasnost and Perestroika—aimed to reform the USSR but eventually accelerated its collapse.

Concept:

ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) is a regional organization formed to promote economic growth, peace, and cooperation among Southeast Asian countries.

Analysis:

(A) Correct → ASEAN was established in 1967. ✔

(B) Correct → It promotes economic growth and regional stability. ✔

(C) Incorrect → ASEAN includes only 10 Southeast Asian countries, not all Asian countries. ✘

(D) Correct → Encouraging cooperation among member states is one of its main objectives. ✔

Conclusion:

ASEAN is a regional organization limited to Southeast Asian nations.

Final Answer: (C) Quick Tip: ASEAN consists of 10 Southeast Asian countries and aims to promote regional cooperation and economic development.

Introduction:

The New International Economic Order (NIEO) refers to a set of proposals put forward by developing countries during the 1970s to create a more just and equitable international economic system. It aimed to reduce inequalities between developed and developing countries.

Main Objectives:


1. Economic Equality:

To reduce the economic gap between developed and developing nations and ensure fair participation in the global economy.


2. Fair Trade System:

To provide better trade opportunities and fair prices for the exports of developing countries.


3. Control over Natural Resources:

To allow developing countries full control and sovereignty over their natural resources for national development.


4. Transfer of Technology and Aid:

To encourage developed countries to share technology and provide financial assistance to developing nations.

Conclusion:

Thus, the NIEO aimed at restructuring the global economic system to ensure fairness, equality, and sustainable development for developing countries. Quick Tip: NIEO was a demand by developing countries for a fair global economic system and reduction of economic inequality.

Introduction:

The United Nations (UN), established in 1945, aims to maintain international peace and security and promote cooperation among nations.

Key Roles:


1. Peacekeeping Operations:

The UN deploys peacekeeping forces in conflict areas to maintain ceasefires and help restore stability.


2. Conflict Resolution and Mediation:

The UN acts as a mediator between conflicting nations and encourages peaceful negotiation and diplomacy.


3. Sanctions and Enforcement Measures:

Through the Security Council, the UN can impose economic sanctions or authorize collective action against aggressive states.


4. Promotion of Collective Security:

The UN encourages member states to act together to prevent threats to international peace.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the United Nations plays a vital role in maintaining global peace, promoting cooperation, and preventing international conflicts. Quick Tip: UN maintains peace through peacekeeping missions, diplomacy, sanctions, and collective security mechanisms.

Introduction:

Globalisation refers to the increasing integration and interconnection of economies across the world through trade, investment, technology, and communication.

Impact on Indian Economy:


1. Economic Growth:

Globalisation increased international trade and foreign investment, contributing to higher economic growth in India.


2. Employment Opportunities:

Expansion of sectors such as Information Technology (IT), services, and manufacturing created new job opportunities.


3. Technological Advancement:

India gained access to modern technology, innovation, and global markets.


4. Challenges and Inequality:

Globalisation also increased income inequality and made the economy more dependent on global markets.

Conclusion:

Thus, globalisation has significantly influenced the Indian economy by creating opportunities for growth while also presenting certain economic and social challenges. Quick Tip: Globalisation leads to economic integration, technological progress, and growth but also creates inequality and market dependency.

Introduction:

India’s foreign policy is based on principles that promote peace, sovereignty, cooperation, and national development. It aims to safeguard India’s national interests while contributing to global peace.

Key Features:


1. Non-Alignment:

India adopted the policy of non-alignment during the Cold War, avoiding alignment with any major power blocs.


2. Peaceful Coexistence:

India emphasizes peaceful relations with other countries based on respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.


3. Panchsheel Principles:

India follows the Panchsheel principles which include mutual respect, non-aggression, non-interference, equality, and peaceful coexistence.


4. Support for Developing Countries:

India actively supports the interests and rights of developing countries in international forums.


5. Strategic Autonomy:

India maintains independent decision-making in international affairs without external pressure.

Conclusion:

Thus, India’s foreign policy aims to balance national interest with international cooperation and peaceful global relations. Quick Tip: Key pillars of India’s foreign policy include Non-Alignment, Panchsheel, peaceful coexistence, and strategic autonomy.

Introduction:

Global Commons refer to natural resources or areas that belong to all humanity and are not owned by any single country.

Examples:

Examples include the high seas, the atmosphere, Antarctica, and outer space.

Key Features:


1. Shared Ownership:

No single country has exclusive rights over these resources.


2. Collective Responsibility:

All countries share the responsibility to protect and manage these resources.


3. Environmental Sustainability:

Overexploitation of global commons can lead to environmental crises such as climate change.


4. Need for Global Cooperation:

International agreements and cooperation are necessary for their protection and sustainable use.

Conclusion:

Therefore, Global Commons require responsible and cooperative management to ensure sustainable benefits for all nations. Quick Tip: Global Commons are shared global resources like oceans, atmosphere, Antarctica, and outer space that require collective protection.

Introduction:

SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) was established in 1985 to promote regional cooperation and development among South Asian countries.

Role of SAARC:


1. Economic Cooperation:

SAARC promotes regional trade and economic integration through agreements such as the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA).


2. Social Development:

It focuses on improving living standards through cooperation in areas such as poverty alleviation, education, and healthcare.


3. Cultural Exchange:

SAARC promotes cultural understanding and people-to-people contact among member countries.


4. Platform for Dialogue:

It provides a forum for member states to discuss common regional issues and promote peaceful relations.

Limitations:

Political tensions, especially between India and Pakistan, have limited the effectiveness of SAARC.

Conclusion:

Although SAARC has faced challenges, it remains an important platform for promoting cooperation and development in South Asia. Quick Tip: SAARC promotes regional cooperation in South Asia but its progress is often hindered by political tensions among member countries.

Introduction:

Human Security is a concept that shifts the focus of security from protecting the state to protecting individuals and their well-being. It emphasizes safeguarding people from various threats that affect their daily lives.

Key Dimensions:


1. Economic Security:

Ensuring protection from poverty, unemployment, and lack of income opportunities.


2. Food Security:

Ensuring access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food for all individuals.


3. Health Security:

Protection from diseases and ensuring access to proper healthcare services.


4. Environmental Security:

Protection from environmental degradation, pollution, and natural disasters.


5. Personal Security:

Ensuring safety from violence, crime, and human rights violations.

Conclusion:

Human security focuses on ensuring freedom from fear and freedom from want, promoting overall human welfare and development. Quick Tip: Human security is people-centered security that focuses on protecting individuals rather than just the state.

Introduction:

The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) emerged during the Cold War as a group of countries that chose not to align with either the United States or the Soviet Union. India was one of the founding members.

Role of India:


1. Leadership Role:

India, under the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru, played a key role in establishing and promoting the Non-Aligned Movement.


2. Promotion of Peaceful Coexistence:

India advocated peaceful relations among nations and supported diplomatic solutions to international conflicts.


3. Voice of Developing Nations:

India represented the interests and concerns of newly independent and developing countries in global forums.


4. Strategic Autonomy:

Through NAM, India maintained independence in its foreign policy decisions without aligning with major power blocs.

Conclusion:

India played a significant role in shaping NAM as a platform for promoting peace, independence, and cooperation among developing countries. Quick Tip: NAM allowed India to maintain an independent foreign policy and support the interests of developing nations.

Introduction:

India faces several political, security, and economic challenges in its neighbouring region due to complex geopolitical dynamics.

Major Challenges:


1. Border Disputes:

Territorial disputes with countries like China and Pakistan affect peace and stability in the region.


2. Political Instability:

Frequent political instability in neighbouring countries influences regional relations and security.


3. Terrorism and Security Threats:

Cross-border terrorism remains a major challenge for India’s national security.


4. External Influence:

Increasing influence of external powers, especially China, in South Asia creates strategic challenges for India.


5. Migration Issues:

Illegal migration from neighbouring countries creates social, economic, and political challenges.

Conclusion:

India must adopt a balanced strategy involving diplomacy, regional cooperation, and security measures to effectively manage these challenges. Quick Tip: India’s neighbourhood challenges include border disputes, terrorism, political instability, migration issues, and external influence.