CBSE Class 12 Political Science Set-1 (59/5/1) Question Paper 2024 Available: Download Solution PDF with Answer Key

Chronological order of the events is as follows:
- (iv) Socialist Revolution in Russia (1917)

- (ii) Soviet invasion of Afghanistan (1979)

- (iii) Disintegration of the Soviet Union (1991)

- (i) Indo-Russian Strategic Agreement (2000)


\begin{quicktipbox
Memorizing key historical milestones helps in understanding global political developments.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Memorizing key historical milestones helps in understanding global political developments.

The Planning Commission was established in 1950 by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to formulate five-year plans for India's development. It played a crucial role in setting economic policies until it was replaced by NITI Aayog in 2015.

\begin{quicktipbox
The Planning Commission emphasized centralized economic planning, while NITI Aayog promotes cooperative federalism.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The Planning Commission emphasized centralized economic planning, while NITI Aayog promotes cooperative federalism.

The princely state of Hyderabad, under the rule of the Nizam, initially resisted joining the Indian Union after independence. It was later annexed by the Indian government through **Operation Polo** in 1948.

\begin{quicktipbox
Hyderabad's integration into India marked a significant step in consolidating Indian territories post-independence.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Hyderabad's integration into India marked a significant step in consolidating Indian territories post-independence.

The **Energy Conservation Act** (2001) was enacted to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy practices. It encourages industries, buildings, and appliances to adopt energy-saving measures.

\begin{quicktipbox
The Energy Conservation Act emphasizes efficient use of energy to reduce environmental impact and reliance on non-renewable resources.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The Energy Conservation Act emphasizes efficient use of energy to reduce environmental impact and reliance on non-renewable resources.

The correct matches are:
- (a) The first country to liberalise its economy in South Asia — (iii) Pakistan

- (b) Earlier had a Sultan as Head of State; now a republic — (i) Maldives

- (c) A landlocked country — (iv) Nepal

- (d) Military prevailed over democracy — (ii) India

\begin{quicktipbox
Pakistan was the first South Asian country to liberalise its economy, while Nepal is one of the prominent landlocked countries in the region.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Pakistan was the first South Asian country to liberalise its economy, while Nepal is one of the prominent landlocked countries in the region.

- The Assertion is correct because before the fourth general elections in 1967, India faced severe protests due to rising prices, food scarcity, and growing unemployment.

- The Reason is also correct because these economic issues were a result of **monsoon failure**, **drought**, and **reduced agricultural productivity**.

- Since the Reason directly explains the Assertion, the correct answer is (A).

\begin{quicktipbox
Understanding economic events in the context of historical elections helps connect social challenges with political outcomes.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Understanding economic events in the context of historical elections helps connect social challenges with political outcomes.

Sri Lanka was one of the first developing countries to successfully implement effective population control measures. Through improved education, healthcare, and family planning programs, Sri Lanka reduced its population growth rate significantly.

\begin{quicktipbox
Sri Lanka's early success in population control was largely due to investments in healthcare, women's education, and awareness campaigns.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Sri Lanka's early success in population control was largely due to investments in healthcare, women's education, and awareness campaigns.

The Planning Commission, formed in 1950, was replaced by **NITI Aayog** in 2015 because it followed a centralized model that became unsuitable for modern development challenges. NITI Aayog emphasizes **cooperative federalism** and allows states to actively participate in developmental planning.

\begin{quicktipbox
NITI Aayog focuses on empowering states and promoting innovation-driven growth for inclusive development.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: NITI Aayog focuses on empowering states and promoting innovation-driven growth for inclusive development.

Following the death of **Lal Bahadur Shastri** in 1966, there was a significant political contest between **Indira Gandhi** and **Morarji Desai** for the position of Prime Minister. Indira Gandhi eventually won with the support of the Congress party.

\begin{quicktipbox
Indira Gandhi’s victory marked the beginning of her influential leadership in Indian politics.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Indira Gandhi’s victory marked the beginning of her influential leadership in Indian politics.

- Assertion (A) is correct because global warming is a proven climate phenomenon caused by increased greenhouse gas emissions.

- Reason (R) is also correct, as ozone depletion is a separate environmental issue. However, ozone depletion is not the primary cause of global warming — greenhouse gases like CO₂ and methane are.


Since the Reason does not explain the Assertion correctly, option (B) is correct.

\begin{quicktipbox
Global warming is mainly driven by greenhouse gas emissions, while ozone depletion affects UV radiation levels.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Global warming is mainly driven by greenhouse gas emissions, while ozone depletion affects UV radiation levels.

The **Disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1991** marked the official end of Communism in the USSR. With the collapse of the Communist Party's control, various republics declared independence, and Russia transitioned toward a capitalist democracy.

\begin{quicktipbox
The fall of the Berlin Wall and disintegration of the USSR symbolized the global decline of communism in the early 1990s.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The fall of the Berlin Wall and disintegration of the USSR symbolized the global decline of communism in the early 1990s.

Chhattisgarh was carved out of **Madhya Pradesh** and became a separate state on **1st November 2000**. It was created to better represent the tribal population and local development needs of the region.

\begin{quicktipbox
In 2000, three new states were formed: Chhattisgarh (from Madhya Pradesh), Jharkhand (from Bihar), and Uttarakhand (from Uttar Pradesh).
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: In 2000, three new states were formed: Chhattisgarh (from Madhya Pradesh), Jharkhand (from Bihar), and Uttarakhand (from Uttar Pradesh).

1. Agenda 21: The Earth Summit led to the adoption of “Agenda 21,” a comprehensive action plan to promote sustainable development globally, nationally, and locally. It focused on combating environmental damage, poverty, and disease through global cooperation.

2. Concept of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities: It introduced the principle that while all countries are responsible for environmental protection, developed countries bear a greater responsibility due to their historical contribution to environmental degradation.

\begin{quicktipbox
The Earth Summit brought environmental issues to the forefront of international policy-making, creating global frameworks for sustainability.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The Earth Summit brought environmental issues to the forefront of international policy-making, creating global frameworks for sustainability.

1. Global Interdependence: Environmental issues like climate change, ozone depletion, and biodiversity loss affect multiple nations simultaneously. This interdependence has made environment a collective concern in world politics, necessitating international agreements.

2. North-South Divide: Developed countries consume a disproportionate amount of global resources, while developing nations face the brunt of environmental challenges. This has led to debates on environmental justice and equity in international forums.

\begin{quicktipbox
Environment became political globally as ecological crises demand shared responsibility and fairness among nations.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Environment became political globally as ecological crises demand shared responsibility and fairness among nations.

1. Lack of Representation: The Security Council does not reflect contemporary global realities. Many countries, especially from Africa, Asia, and Latin America, feel underrepresented in global decision-making.

2. Veto Power Criticism: The five permanent members (P5) possess veto power, which is often used to protect their own interests. This leads to criticism that the Council is undemocratic and biased.

\begin{quicktipbox
Reform demands of the UNSC aim to make it more inclusive, democratic, and effective in dealing with modern global challenges.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Reform demands of the UNSC aim to make it more inclusive, democratic, and effective in dealing with modern global challenges.

1. End of Congress Dominance: In the 1967 general elections, the Congress Party lost its majority in several states, marking the end of its unchallenged dominance since independence. It was the first major shift in Indian politics.

2. Rise of Coalition Governments: For the first time, non-Congress parties formed governments in states like Punjab, Bihar, and West Bengal through coalition arrangements, introducing India to multi-party governance.

\begin{quicktipbox
The 1967 elections marked the transition from one-party dominance to a competitive multi-party system in Indian democracy.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The 1967 elections marked the transition from one-party dominance to a competitive multi-party system in Indian democracy.

1. Transfer of Chandigarh: The agreement promised the transfer of the union territory of Chandigarh to Punjab, while some Punjabi-speaking areas from Haryana were to be transferred to Haryana.

2. Water Dispute Tribunal: A tribunal was to be set up to resolve the issue of the sharing of Ravi-Beas river waters among Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.

\begin{quicktipbox
The Punjab Accord aimed to address regional grievances and restore peace in Punjab after years of turmoil.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The Punjab Accord aimed to address regional grievances and restore peace in Punjab after years of turmoil.

1. Inclusive Representation: Coalition governments bring together multiple political parties, allowing diverse groups and regions to be represented in policymaking. This leads to more balanced governance.

2. Consensus-Oriented Politics: Coalitions promote consensus-building and compromise among various political entities, which often results in more democratic and participatory decision-making.

\begin{quicktipbox
Coalition governments reflect the diversity of Indian society and promote power-sharing among different political groups.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Coalition governments reflect the diversity of Indian society and promote power-sharing among different political groups.

1. Economic Integration: Globalisation has led to the integration of national economies through increased trade, investment, and flow of capital, allowing countries to access larger markets.

2. Cultural Exchange: It has facilitated cultural interaction across the world, leading to the spread of global culture, values, and lifestyles, sometimes at the cost of local traditions.

3. Technological Advancement: Globalisation has encouraged the sharing of knowledge, innovation, and technology, leading to progress in communication, healthcare, and infrastructure.

4. Rising Inequality: While globalisation has lifted many out of poverty, it has also widened the gap between the rich and the poor, both within and among nations.

\begin{quicktipbox
Globalisation brings both opportunities and challenges — promoting development while raising concerns about inequality and cultural erosion.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Globalisation brings both opportunities and challenges — promoting development while raising concerns about inequality and cultural erosion.

1. Strategic and Defence Cooperation: India and Russia continue to collaborate closely in the defence sector. India has purchased advanced military equipment such as the S-400 missile defence system and jointly developed the BrahMos missile with Russia.

2. Economic and Energy Ties: Russia remains a key energy partner for India. India imports crude oil and nuclear technology from Russia. Both nations have also committed to enhancing trade under the “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.”

\begin{quicktipbox
India-Russia relations remain strong due to historical trust, defence collaboration, and shared interests in global peace.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: India-Russia relations remain strong due to historical trust, defence collaboration, and shared interests in global peace.

1. State-Controlled Economy: Unlike the US capitalist system, the Soviet Union had a centrally planned economy where the government controlled production, distribution, and pricing, ensuring equal access to basic goods and services.

2. Absence of Private Property: In the Soviet system, all property and industries were state-owned. There was no private enterprise, and employment was provided by the government, contrasting sharply with the US’s private-sector-driven economy.

\begin{quicktipbox
The Soviet model focused on state welfare and control, while the US model promoted individual entrepreneurship and market freedom.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The Soviet model focused on state welfare and control, while the US model promoted individual entrepreneurship and market freedom.

1. Military Dominance: The military in Pakistan has remained a powerful institution, frequently interfering in politics. It has overthrown civilian governments multiple times, weakening democratic institutions.

2. Lack of Political Stability: Frequent changes in governments, weak party structures, and corruption have hindered the growth of a strong democratic culture in Pakistan.

\begin{quicktipbox
A stable democracy requires not just elections but also independent institutions, rule of law, and civilian supremacy over the military.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: A stable democracy requires not just elections but also independent institutions, rule of law, and civilian supremacy over the military.

1. SAFTA Agreement: The South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA), signed in 2004, was an important economic initiative by SAARC to promote free trade among member countries and enhance regional economic cooperation.

2. Disaster Management and Health: SAARC has cooperated on issues like disaster management and health through shared early warning systems and initiatives like the SAARC Tuberculosis Centre in Nepal.

\begin{quicktipbox
SAARC promotes cooperation in trade, health, and disaster relief, despite political tensions among member states.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: SAARC promotes cooperation in trade, health, and disaster relief, despite political tensions among member states.

1. Rising Prices and Inflation: The country was facing steep price rises, especially in food grains and essential commodities, which led to public dissatisfaction and protests.

2. Unemployment Crisis: Due to economic stagnation, educated youth were facing unemployment, causing unrest, particularly among students in Gujarat and Bihar.

3. Corruption and Misgovernance: Allegations of corruption and inefficiency in Congress-led governments led to the demand for greater transparency and accountability.

4. Judgment against Indira Gandhi: In June 1975, the Allahabad High Court found Prime Minister Indira Gandhi guilty of electoral malpractices, leading to widespread protests demanding her resignation.

\begin{quicktipbox
The protests of 1974–75 created the environment for the imposition of the Emergency in June 1975.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The protests of 1974–75 created the environment for the imposition of the Emergency in June 1975.

1. Protectorate Status (1947): After India’s independence, Sikkim remained a protectorate under Indian control with autonomy in internal matters, while India handled its defence, communication, and external affairs.

2. Democratic Movement (1973): There was growing public discontent in Sikkim against the rule of the Chogyal (monarch). People demanded democratic reforms and closer ties with India.

3. Tripartite Agreement: In 1974, an agreement was signed between the Chogyal, Sikkimese leaders, and the Indian government to introduce a democratic constitution in Sikkim.

4. Merger with India (1975): After a public referendum in which the majority voted in favour of joining India, Sikkim officially became the 22nd state of India in May 1975.

\begin{quicktipbox
Sikkim’s merger with India was peaceful and democratic, driven by local demand and India’s strategic interest.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Sikkim’s merger with India was peaceful and democratic, driven by local demand and India’s strategic interest.

The partition of British India in 1947 was carried out on the basis of the religious composition of areas. Muslim-majority regions became part of Pakistan, and Hindu-majority regions became part of India.

\begin{quicktipbox
The division based on religious majority led to massive migrations and communal violence during partition.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The division based on religious majority led to massive migrations and communal violence during partition.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel served as the first Deputy Prime Minister of India and played a key role in the political integration of princely states.

\begin{quicktipbox
Sardar Patel was also the first Home Minister and is often called the “Iron Man of India.”
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Sardar Patel was also the first Home Minister and is often called the “Iron Man of India.”

At the time of independence in 1947, there were a total of 565 princely states in British India. These states were not directly ruled by the British but were under British suzerainty and had internal autonomy under their respective rulers.

\begin{quicktipbox
Sardar Patel and V.P. Menon were instrumental in diplomatically integrating all 565 princely states into the Indian Union.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Sardar Patel and V.P. Menon were instrumental in diplomatically integrating all 565 princely states into the Indian Union.

The statement in option (B) is incorrect. The ruler of Junagadh, a Muslim ruler of a Hindu-majority state, decided to join Pakistan, not India. This decision led to protests, and eventually, Junagadh was annexed into the Indian Union after a referendum.

\begin{quicktipbox
Junagadh’s case highlights the complex decisions faced during princely state integration, often against the demographic will of the people.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Junagadh’s case highlights the complex decisions faced during princely state integration, often against the demographic will of the people.

- E.M.S. Namboodiripad formed the first elected non-Congress government in Kerala in 1957.

- Syama Prasad Mookerjee was a prominent leader from West Bengal.

- Jawaharlal Nehru was born in Allahabad, which is in Uttar Pradesh.

- Rajkumari Amrit Kaur hailed from a princely family in Himachal Pradesh and was India’s first Health Minister.

\begin{quicktipbox
Link prominent historical personalities with their states by remembering key events, movements, or portfolios associated with them.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Link prominent historical personalities with their states by remembering key events, movements, or portfolios associated with them.

1. Geopolitical Concerns: India shares borders with countries like China and Pakistan, which have historically posed security threats. Therefore, ensuring military preparedness remains a priority to counter these threats.

2. Historical Conflicts: The experience of wars, such as the 1962 Sino-Indian War and the 1947-48 Kashmir conflict with Pakistan, has reinforced the importance of maintaining a strong military.

3. Internal Security Threats: India faces internal security challenges, including insurgencies in Jammu and Kashmir, North East India, and Naxalism. The need to address these threats with military and police forces requires a higher allocation to traditional security.

\begin{quicktipbox
Traditional security spending is prioritized because of immediate external and internal threats, while non-traditional threats require longer-term and multi-faceted strategies.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Traditional security spending is prioritized because of immediate external and internal threats, while non-traditional threats require longer-term and multi-faceted strategies.

1. Cybersecurity Threats: With the rise of digital infrastructure, cyber-attacks have become a significant threat to national security. For example, attacks on India's power grid and government databases have been attributed to cyber warfare.

2. Environmental Security: Climate change and environmental degradation pose long-term threats. For instance, the flooding in coastal areas like Chennai or the rising water levels in Himalayan regions can displace populations and destabilize regions.

3. Terrorism and Extremism: Non-state actors like terrorist organizations pose threats to national security, as seen in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. These groups often operate across borders and challenge state sovereignty.

\begin{quicktipbox
Non-traditional security threats such as cyberattacks, environmental disasters, and terrorism require global cooperation and proactive policies.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Non-traditional security threats such as cyberattacks, environmental disasters, and terrorism require global cooperation and proactive policies.

1. Urban-Rural Divide: Economic reforms have primarily benefited urban areas, leading to significant growth in cities, while rural areas continue to struggle with poverty and lack of infrastructure.

2. Income Inequality: Although China's GDP has grown, there has been a widening gap between the rich and the poor. The benefits of economic growth have not been evenly distributed across all sections of society.

3. Lack of Social Safety Nets: While China has made economic strides, social welfare and public health systems are still underdeveloped in many regions, limiting access to benefits for the broader population.

\begin{quicktipbox
While economic reforms in China have accelerated growth, socio-economic inequalities persist, posing challenges to inclusive development.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: While economic reforms in China have accelerated growth, socio-economic inequalities persist, posing challenges to inclusive development.

1. Economic Union (1950s): The European Union evolved from the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) and the European Economic Community (EEC), which focused on promoting economic integration through trade, common markets, and economic cooperation.

2. Single Market and Eurozone (1990s): The Maastricht Treaty in 1993 introduced the concept of a single market, with free movement of goods, services, people, and capital. The creation of the Eurozone, using a common currency (Euro), further cemented economic unity.

3. Political Integration (21st Century): Over time, the EU has become more politically integrated, with common policies on foreign affairs, security, and a unified approach to issues like migration, energy, and climate change.

\begin{quicktipbox
The EU’s transformation from an economic bloc to a political union reflects growing collaboration on global issues like security and diplomacy.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The EU’s transformation from an economic bloc to a political union reflects growing collaboration on global issues like security and diplomacy.

1. Rise of Coalition Politics: The 1990s saw the collapse of the Congress’s dominance in Indian politics, with the rise of coalition governments at the Centre. This era marked the end of one-party rule.

2. Economic Liberalization (1991): The Indian government introduced major economic reforms under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao and Finance Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, leading to liberalization, privatization, and globalization.

3. Rise of Regional Parties: Regional parties gained prominence, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Bihar. This decentralized power structure reflected India’s diversity in politics.

\begin{quicktipbox
The 1990s were a period of transformation, with a shift from centralized power to a more pluralistic and inclusive political landscape.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The 1990s were a period of transformation, with a shift from centralized power to a more pluralistic and inclusive political landscape.

1. Commitment to Democracy: Despite ideological differences, political parties in India came to a consensus on the importance of maintaining democratic institutions and values, ensuring the functioning of a multi-party democracy.

2. Economic Reforms: After 1989, there was broad political support for economic liberalization, though the pace and depth of reforms differed. Both Congress and opposition parties recognized the need for reforms.

3. Secularism: While parties had different visions for India, there was a general agreement on secularism as the core principle, ensuring that the state does not favor any religion.

\begin{quicktipbox
In the 1990s, despite political competition and conflicts, India maintained unity around key democratic values and economic reforms.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: In the 1990s, despite political competition and conflicts, India maintained unity around key democratic values and economic reforms.

1. Non-Alignment Movement (NAM): India, under the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru, spearheaded the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) to avoid alignment with any major power bloc during the Cold War. This was aimed at maintaining peace by ensuring independence from superpower rivalries.

2. Promotion of Disarmament: India has consistently advocated for nuclear disarmament and peaceful coexistence. India's consistent stance at various international forums, including the UN, has been to reduce the risks of nuclear warfare.

3. Peacekeeping Missions: India has actively participated in various UN peacekeeping missions since its independence, contributing troops to conflict zones, which reflects its commitment to global peace and security.

\begin{quicktipbox
India’s foreign policy focused on global peace and diplomacy, avoiding conflict through multilateral engagement and support for international laws.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: India’s foreign policy focused on global peace and diplomacy, avoiding conflict through multilateral engagement and support for international laws.

1. Support for Independence Movements: India actively supported the independence movements of colonized nations in Africa and Asia, such as in Algeria, Kenya, and Vietnam. It was a vocal advocate for the self-determination of people under colonial rule.

2. Role in UN for Anti-Colonial Resolutions: India played a major role in the United Nations, advocating for decolonization and the dismantling of the British and French empires. It led several resolutions calling for the independence of colonized nations.

3. Opposition to Apartheid: India was a staunch opponent of apartheid in South Africa. It led international campaigns, imposed sanctions on South Africa, and supported the African National Congress (ANC) in its struggle against racial segregation.

\begin{quicktipbox
India’s leadership in supporting decolonization and opposing racism was part of its broader vision of a just and equitable global order.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: India’s leadership in supporting decolonization and opposing racism was part of its broader vision of a just and equitable global order.