CBSE Class 10 Social Science Question Paper 2024 PDF (Set 1 - 32/4/1) is available for download here. CBSE conducted the Social Science exam on March 7, 2024, from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. The total marks for the theory paper are 80. The question paper contains 20% MCQ-based questions, 40% competency-based questions, and 40% short and long answer type questions.
CBSE Class 10 Social Science Question Paper 2024 (Set 1 - 32/4/1) with Answer Key
| CBSE Class 10 Social Science Question Paper 2024 (Set 1 - 32/4/1) with Answer Key | Check Solutions |
CBSE Social Science Question Paper (Set 1 – 32/4/1) 2024 Solution
| Question | Answer | Detailed Solution |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Arrange the following incidents in chronological order and choose the correct option: I. French Revolution II. Napoleon’s invasion of Italy III. Unification of Italy IV. Vienna Peace Treaty (A) I, II, IV, III (B) II, IV, I, III (C) II, III, I, IV (D) I, III, II, IV |
(A) I, II, IV, III | The correct order is: The French Revolution (1789–1799), Napoleon’s invasion of Italy (1796), Vienna Peace Treaty (1815), and Unification of Italy (1861). This sequence outlines significant European historical events. |
| 2. —— from India and Southeast Asia traveled through the ‘Silk Route’ to other parts of the world. (A) Gold and silver ornaments (B) Clothes and spices (C) Grain and pulses (D) Iron and other metals |
(B) Clothes and spices | The Silk Route was a major trading network connecting Asia with Europe, transporting goods like silk and spices, which were highly sought after in international markets. |
| 3. Choose the correct option related to the founders of the ‘Swaraj Party’ within the Congress. (A) Subhas Chandra Bose and Jawaharlal Nehru (B) Acharya Kripalani and Jayaprakash Narayan (C) C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru (D) Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel |
(C) C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru | C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru founded the Swaraj Party in 1923 to contest elections and oppose British policies from within the legislative councils. |
| 4. Who among the following said – “Printing is the ultimate gift of God and the greatest one.”? (A) Martin Luther (B) Mahatma Gandhi (C) Johannes Gutenberg (D) Rashsundari Devi |
(A) Martin Luther | Martin Luther praised the printing press for spreading knowledge and ideas during the Protestant Reformation, making religious texts accessible to the masses. |
| 5. Two statements are given below. They are Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Choose the correct option: Assertion (A): The famous ‘Chipko Movement’ in the Himalayas successfully resisted deforestation in several areas. Reason (R): Through this, community afforestation campaigns with indigenous species were made enormously successful. (A) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A). (B) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A). (C) (A) is true, but (R) is false. (D) (A) is false, but (R) is true. |
(B) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A). | The Chipko Movement prevented deforestation by encouraging community participation. Its afforestation efforts with indigenous species were a direct extension of this environmental campaign. |
| 6. Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option: Column I (Dams) | Column II (Rivers) I. Sardar Sarovar | Narmada II. Hirakud | Mahanadi III. Bhakra Nangal | Sutlej IV. Nagarjuna Sagar | Krishna (A) I-c, II-d, III-a, IV-b (B) I-b, II-a, III-d, IV-c (C) I-d, II-b, III-c, IV-a (D) I-c, II-d, III-a, IV-b |
(D) I-c, II-d, III-a, IV-b | The correct matches are: Sardar Sarovar (Narmada), Hirakud (Mahanadi), Bhakra Nangal (Sutlej), and Nagarjuna Sagar (Krishna). |
| 7. Choose the correct option for the States’ share (in percentage) in the production of ‘manganese’ in India, from the highest to the lowest order. (A) Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Odisha (B) Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Karnataka (C) Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Odisha (D) Maharashtra, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka |
(B) Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Karnataka | India's manganese production is led by Madhya Pradesh, followed by Maharashtra, Odisha, and Karnataka in decreasing order. |
| 8. Read the arguments in favor of power sharing and choose the correct option: I. Reduces the likelihood of bias. II. Barricades the decision-making process. III. Accommodates diversities. IV. Increases people’s participation in power. (A) Only I, II and III are correct. (B) Only II, III and IV are correct. (C) Only I, III and IV are correct. (D) Only I, II and IV are correct. |
(C) Only I, III and IV are correct | Power sharing reduces bias, accommodates diversity, and enhances participation, strengthening democratic principles. Statement II is incorrect as power sharing facilitates decision-making. |
| 9. ‘Education’ falls under which one of the following lists given in the Indian Constitution? (A) Union List (B) State List (C) Concurrent List (D) Residuary Subjects |
(C) Concurrent List | Education is included in the Concurrent List, allowing both the Central and State Governments to legislate on it. |
| 10. In which institution was a system of reservation for women introduced by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992? (A) Lok Sabha (B) Rajya Sabha (C) Legislative Council (D) Panchayat |
(D) Panchayat | The 73rd Amendment ensured one-third reservation for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions, promoting their participation in local self-governance. |
| 11. Two statements are given below. They are Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Choose the correct option: Assertion (A): Modern democracy cannot function without political parties. Reason (R): Elected representatives will be accountable only to their constituencies, not towards the country. (A) (A) is true, but (R) is false. (B) (A) is false, but (R) is true. (C) Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A). (D) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A). |
(C) Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A). | Political parties are essential for modern democracy as they structure governance, enable policy formulation, and ensure accountability. However, elected representatives are accountable to both their constituencies and the nation. |
| 12. Which one of the following countries has a two-party system? (A) China (B) Pakistan (C) United States of America (D) France |
(C) United States of America | The United States has a two-party system dominated by the Democratic and Republican parties, ensuring political stability but limiting diverse representation. |
| 13. In which of the following regions was women representation the highest in their respective National Parliaments (2018)? (A) Nordic countries (B) America (North and South) (C) Europe (D) Asia |
(A) Nordic countries | Nordic countries lead in women's representation due to progressive policies and quotas ensuring gender equality in governance. |
| 14. Read the following characteristics of democracy and choose the correct option: I. Free and fair elections II. Equality before law III. Dignity of a person IV. Majority rule (A) Only I, II and III are correct. (B) Only II, III and IV are correct. (C) Only I, III and IV are correct. (D) Only I, II and IV are correct. |
(A) Only I, II and III are correct. | Key characteristics of democracy include free and fair elections, equality before the law, and individual dignity. Majority rule must respect minority rights, making it a balancing principle. |
| 15. Read the following situation regarding credit and identify the positive impact of credit: Salim obtains credit to meet the working capital needs of production. The credit helps him to meet ongoing expenses and complete production on time. (A) The burden of credit will increase on Salim. (B) Salim’s income will increase. (C) The production will decrease. (D) Salim may get stuck in a debt trap. |
(B) Salim’s income will increase. | Credit, when used efficiently for production, leads to timely completion of tasks and income growth, avoiding debt traps and ensuring sustainability. |
| 16. Study the following picture. The work done in the picture comes under which one of the following sectors of the economy? (A) Primary (B) Secondary (C) Tertiary (D) Quaternary |
(C) Tertiary | The tertiary sector involves services like trade, communication, and education, connecting production and consumers in the economic chain. |
| 17. Two statements are given below. They are Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Choose the correct option: Assertion (A): No individual in India can legally refuse a payment made in rupees. Reason (R): In India, the rupee is authorized by the State Governments. (A) Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) explains (A). (B) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) does not explain (A). (C) (A) is true, but (R) is false. (D) (A) is false, but (R) is true. |
(C) (A) is true, but (R) is false. | The rupee is authorized by the Central Government and managed by the Reserve Bank of India, not state governments, making (R) false while (A) remains true. |
| 18. Which one of the following statements best describes the meaning of ‘Globalization’? (A) Removal of tax barriers on trade (B) Providing a higher standard of living (C) Process of rapid integration between countries (D) Taking special steps to attract foreign companies |
(C) Process of rapid integration between countries | Globalization refers to increased interconnectivity and interdependence between countries in trade, technology, and cultural exchange. |
| 19. On which of the following basis does the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) publish the ‘Human Development Report’? (A) Manufacturing, Infrastructure, and Health (B) Education, Health, and Per Capita Income (C) National Income, Health, and Banking (D) Gross Domestic Product, Technology, and Innovation |
(B) Education, Health, and Per Capita Income | UNDP’s Human Development Report evaluates countries based on education (literacy rates), health (life expectancy), and per capita income (standard of living). |
| 20. Two statements are given below. They are Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Choose the correct option: Assertion (A): Banks are not ready to lend money to certain borrowers. Reason (R): Some people do not have collateral. (A) Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) explains (A). (B) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) does not explain (A). (C) (A) is true, but (R) is false. (D) (A) is false, but (R) is true. |
(A) Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) explains (A). | Banks require collateral to mitigate risks; borrowers without collateral often face difficulties accessing loans, which explains why some are denied credit. |
| 21. “Until the nineteenth century, poverty and hunger were common in Europe.” Analyse the statement. | Industrial Revolution’s Impact | In the 19th century, feudal systems, low agricultural productivity, and economic disparities led to widespread poverty and hunger in Europe. However, the Industrial Revolution introduced mechanized farming and created urban employment, gradually reducing these issues. |
| 22. How is energy a basic requirement for the economic development of a country? Explain with examples. | Industrial and Rural Growth | Energy powers industries, IT sectors, and transport systems, facilitating economic activities. For example, hydroelectric power aids industrial growth, while solar energy supports rural electrification, contributing to holistic development. |
| 23. (a) Examine the role of the Constitution in the Federal System of India in two points. | Division of Powers and Dispute Resolution | The Constitution divides powers between the Union and States through lists like Union, State, and Concurrent Lists. It provides mechanisms for resolving disputes, such as the Supreme Court's authority under Article 131. |
| OR 23. (b) Examine the role of the Supreme Court in the Federal System of India in two points. | Constitutional Guardian | The Supreme Court resolves disputes between the Union and States under its original jurisdiction and ensures the balance of power through judicial review, upholding federal principles. |
| 24. How is technology an important factor in globalization? Explain with examples. | Enhanced Communication and Trade | Technological advancements like the internet enable global markets to connect seamlessly, as seen with platforms like Amazon. Innovations in transportation, such as container shipping, reduce costs and increase trade efficiency. |
| 25. (a) How did people belonging to different communities develop a sense of collective belonging during the National Movement? Explain with examples. | Symbols and Movements | People united under symbols like the tricolor flag and national songs like 'Vande Mataram.' Movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement transcended regional and linguistic barriers, fostering a collective identity. |
| OR 25. (b) How did workers interpret Gandhiji’s notion of Swaraj? Explain with examples. | Economic Liberation | For workers, Swaraj meant freedom from economic exploitation and better working conditions. Strikes during the Non-Cooperation Movement reflected their aspiration for equitable labor rights and dignity. |
| 26. Describe any three features of the cultivation of millets in India. | Sustainability and Nutrition | Millets are drought-resistant crops grown in semi-arid regions, requiring minimal irrigation. They thrive in poor soils and are rich in nutrients, contributing to India’s food security and sustainable agriculture. |
| 27. Analyse the role of political parties in shaping public opinion. | Awareness and Mobilization | Political parties shape public opinion through campaigns, debates, and manifestos. They raise awareness about national issues, mobilize citizens during elections, and advocate for policies addressing public needs. |
| 28. “Federal form of government is in direct contrast to the Unitary form of government.” Explain the statement. | Power Distribution and Autonomy | A federal government divides power between central and state governments (e.g., India), ensuring regional autonomy. In contrast, a unitary government centralizes power in one authority (e.g., France), prioritizing national unity over regional representation. |
| 29. Why could different persons have different notions of a country’s development? Explain with examples. | Varied Perspectives and Needs | Development varies based on priorities: a farmer values better irrigation, while an urban resident prioritizes transport infrastructure. Social groups like women may emphasize education and healthcare, reflecting diverse aspirations and socio-economic contexts. |
| 30. (a) “The French Revolution created a sense of collective identity amongst the French people.” Explain the statement with suitable arguments. | Equality, Fraternity, and National Unity | The French Revolution united citizens through symbols like the tricolor flag and the anthem “La Marseillaise.” It emphasized equality, fraternity, and liberty, fostering national identity by replacing regional dialects with French as the national language. |
| OR 30. (b) “The Greek War of Independence mobilized nationalist feelings among the educated elite across Europe.” Explain the statement with suitable arguments. | Cultural Heritage and European Support | The Greek War of Independence inspired European elites by linking Greek culture with democracy and liberty. Figures like Lord Byron glorified their struggle against Ottoman rule, and European powers supported Greece’s independence, igniting nationalist sentiments across Europe. |
| 31. (a) Describe the role of manufacturing industries in the economic development of a country. | Economic Growth and Self-Reliance | Manufacturing industries boost GDP, create jobs, and transform raw materials into valuable goods. They reduce dependency on imports, foster innovation, and enhance infrastructure, contributing to national income and self-reliance. |
| OR 31. (b) Describe any five steps taken to save fresh water from industrial pollution. | Recycling and Regulations | Steps include implementing effluent treatment plants, recycling wastewater, enforcing strict environmental laws, promoting rainwater harvesting, and adopting cleaner production methods to minimize freshwater usage and contamination. |
| 32. (a) Analyse the importance of democracy in the accommodation of social diversity. | Equality and Inclusivity | Democracy accommodates diversity by ensuring representation for all groups through affirmative policies and constitutional safeguards. It promotes inclusivity and resolves conflicts peacefully, fostering unity in a diverse society like India. |
| OR 32. (b) Analyse the importance of democracy in reducing poverty and inequality. | Empowerment and Welfare | Democracy empowers marginalized groups through social welfare programs like MGNREGA in India, providing jobs and reducing income disparities. It ensures accountability and equal opportunities, contributing to poverty alleviation and equitable growth. |
| 33. (a) “There is a need for protection and support of workers in the unorganized sector.” Examine the statement with examples. | Social Security and Rights | Unorganized sector workers face job insecurity and low wages. Providing social benefits like health insurance and pensions through schemes like PM-SYM improves their livelihoods and reduces exploitation, ensuring inclusive economic development. |
| OR 33. (b) “Activities in the private sector are guided by the motive to earn profits.” Examine the statement with examples. | Profit-Driven and Competitive | Private sector activities focus on profitability and customer satisfaction. Companies like Tata and Infosys innovate to remain competitive, contributing to GDP growth. However, profit motives may lead to cost-cutting practices affecting workers’ welfare. |
| 34.1 On which rule was the ‘Vernacular Press Act’ based? | Irish Press Laws | The ‘Vernacular Press Act’ was based on the Irish Press Laws, aimed at curbing nationalist sentiments and controlling dissenting voices in the press. |
| 34.2 Why did the attitude of the British change towards the freedom of press after the Revolt of 1857? Explain. | Fear of Nationalist Propaganda | The British feared that vernacular newspapers would spread nationalist sentiments and anti-British propaganda. This led to strict control over the press, including laws like the Vernacular Press Act. |
| 34.3 Explain any two impacts of passing the ‘Vernacular Press Act.’ | Censorship and Suppression | 1. The Act stifled freedom of expression by allowing extensive censorship of vernacular newspapers. 2. Persistent offenders faced confiscation of their printing machinery, suppressing nationalist journalism. |
| 35.1 Define the term ‘Resource Planning.’ | Systematic Resource Utilization | Resource planning refers to the systematic process of identifying, assessing, and judiciously utilizing resources to ensure sustainable development for current and future generations. |
| 35.2 Explain the need for conservation of resources. | Prevent Overutilization and Ensure Sustainability | Conservation of resources prevents socio-economic and environmental problems caused by over-utilization. It ensures sustainability by preserving resources for future generations while meeting current needs. |
| 35.3 Why did Gandhiji say – “There is enough for everybody’s need and not for any body’s greed”? Analyse any two reasons. | Equity and Sustainability | 1. Gandhiji emphasized equitable distribution of resources to ensure all individuals could meet their needs. 2. He criticized overexploitation driven by greed, which causes resource depletion and environmental harm. |
| 36.1 ‘Cooperative society’ is an example of which source of ‘credit’? | Institutional Source | A cooperative society is an example of an institutional source of credit, providing affordable and accessible loans to its members. |
| 36.2 Explain the contribution of Cooperative Societies in rural development. | Credit and Livelihood Support | Cooperative societies provide affordable loans for agricultural and non-agricultural purposes, helping rural farmers and workers improve their livelihoods and access essential resources for development. |
| 36.3 Mention any two sources of capital for Self-Help Groups. | Member Savings and Bank Loans | 1. Contributions and pooled savings by members. 2. Loans sanctioned by banks based on pooled resources. |
| 37. (a) Identify the two places marked (A) and (B) on the given political outline map of India. | (A) Champaran, Bihar (B) Dandi, Gujarat |
Champaran (Bihar) was where Gandhiji started Satyagraha for indigo peasants. Dandi (Gujarat) was the site where he broke the Salt Law during the Salt March. |
| 37. (b) Locate and label the following on the political map of India: (i) Naharkatiya – Oil field (ii) Talcher – Major Coal Mines (iii) Narora – Atomic Power Plant (iv) Tuticorin – Major Sea Port |
Geographical Features | 1. Naharkatiya (Assam): Oil field 2. Talcher (Odisha): Major coal mines 3. Narora (Uttar Pradesh): Atomic power plant 4. Tuticorin (Tamil Nadu): Major sea port |



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