UP Board Class 12 Nagrik Shastra Question Paper 2024 with Answer Key (Code 323 ET)

Understanding Perestroika and Glasnost, Perestroika (restructuring) and Glasnost (openness) were policies introduced by Mikhail Gorbachev in the 1980s to reform the Soviet Union. These aimed at economic restructuring and increased transparency.
Quick Tip: Perestroika and Glasnost were key policies that led to the eventual dissolution of the USSR by promoting openness and economic reforms.

Identifying the Baltic Republics, The Baltic Republics refer to the three countries—Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia—situated along the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea. These nations were part of the Soviet Union until they regained independence in 1991.
Quick Tip: The Baltic states share historical and cultural ties and were under Soviet rule for much of the 20th century before regaining independence.

Bhutan’s Energy Production, Bhutan relies heavily on hydroelectric power due to its abundant river resources. The country exports hydroelectric energy to neighboring India, making it a key economic asset.
Quick Tip: Bhutan’s economy is largely dependent on hydroelectric power, which is a clean and renewable energy source.

Understanding UN Budget Contributions.The United States is the largest contributor to the United Nations budget, providing a significant portion of its financial resources.
Quick Tip: The UN budget is primarily funded by member states, with the US being the largest contributor, followed by China and Japan.

Conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Ukraine has been involved in an ongoing conflict with Russia, particularly since 2014, following Russia’s annexation of Crimea.
Quick Tip: The Russia-Ukraine conflict is one of the major geopolitical issues in recent years, affecting global energy and security policies.

Understanding Amnesty International, Amnesty International is a global non-governmental organization focused on human rights, working to prevent injustice and abuse worldwide.
Quick Tip: Amnesty International fights against human rights violations, advocating for freedom of expression, fair trials, and protection from torture.

Understanding State Reorganization, In 1956, the States Reorganization Act was passed in India, leading to the formation of states based primarily on linguistic lines.
Quick Tip: The reorganization of states based on language helped promote better governance and administration in India.

Green Revolution and Crop Impact, The Green Revolution in India focused on high-yield wheat varieties, significantly boosting agricultural productivity.
Quick Tip: The Green Revolution was instrumental in making India self-sufficient in food production, particularly in wheat.

Understanding the Basic Structure Doctrine, The Supreme Court of India established the Basic Structure Doctrine in the Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala case (1973), ruling that while Parliament has the power to amend the Constitution, it cannot alter its basic structure.
Quick Tip: The Basic Structure Doctrine protects fundamental aspects of the Constitution, ensuring that democracy, secularism, and the rule of law remain unchanged.

Understanding the Emergency Period, During the Emergency (1975-77) imposed by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Jayaprakash Narayan (JP) emerged as the key leader of the movement against the authoritarian rule. He led mass protests advocating for democracy and civil liberties.
Quick Tip: Jayaprakash Narayan was a major proponent of the Total Revolution movement, which aimed to restore democracy in India after the Emergency period.

The countries commonly recognized as part of the "Second World" during the Cold War are China and Russia. They were aligned with the Soviet Union, forming the bloc between the capitalist "First World" and the non-aligned "Third World".
Quick Tip: During the Cold War, the world was divided into three blocs: the First World (capitalist), the Second World (communist), and the Third World (neutral or unaligned countries).

The disintegration of the Soviet Union resulted in the emergence of 15 independent nations and the end of communism as the dominant ideology in Eastern Europe.
Quick Tip: The breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991 led to the formation of new countries, such as Ukraine and Kazakhstan, and marked the end of the Cold War.

The two European Union countries with nuclear weapons are France and the United Kingdom, both nuclear powers within NATO.
Quick Tip: France and the UK, both possess nuclear arsenals, and their membership in NATO underscores the strategic importance of their atomic weapons.

Global warming leads to rising sea levels, causing coastal flooding, and increases extreme weather events such as hurricanes and droughts.
Quick Tip: Global warming intensifies the greenhouse effect, leading to more frequent and severe natural disasters, like floods, hurricanes, and heatwaves.

Global cooperation is crucial to address climate change and prevent nuclear proliferation, both of which have worldwide implications.
Quick Tip: Climate change and nuclear proliferation are global issues that require coordinated efforts from multiple countries to find lasting solutions.

The partition of India in 1947 greatly affected Punjab and Bengal, leading to mass displacement and communal violence.
Quick Tip: The partition in 1947 resulted in the division of Punjab and Bengal, causing significant loss of life and displacement across both India and Pakistan.

The Planning Commission was replaced by the NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) to foster cooperative federalism.
Quick Tip: The NITI Aayog promotes policy innovations and decentralized decision-making, contrasting with the top-down approach of the Planning Commission.

Two major multipurpose river projects in India are the Hirakud Dam on the Mahanadi River and the Narmada Valley Project.
Quick Tip: Multipurpose river projects help with irrigation, water supply, flood control, and power generation, enhancing regional development.

The ban on liquor is mentioned in the Directive Principles of State Policy, particularly under Article 47 of the Indian Constitution.
Quick Tip: Article 47 directs the State to raise the level of nutrition and the standard of living while prohibiting the consumption of intoxicating substances.

The main regional political parties of Jammu and Kashmir are the Jammu-Kashmir National Conference (NC) and the Jammu-Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Quick Tip: Regional political parties like NC and PDP play a vital role in Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape, advocating for state-specific issues.

The success of the European Union is due to its common currency, the Euro, promoting economic integration. Additionally, its single market allows for free trade and mobility, fostering growth and stability. The EU's cohesive foreign policy enhances its global influence, and its expansion into Eastern Europe has spread democratic values. Its ability to maintain peace, reduce internal barriers, and tackle common challenges like climate change has further solidified its success.
Quick Tip: The EU's success is driven by its economic integration through a common currency and the free movement of goods, services, and people.

International organizations, like the United Nations, are crucial for maintaining global peace and security. They facilitate cooperation on issues such as climate change, terrorism, and human rights. These organizations provide platforms for diplomacy, enabling countries to resolve disputes without war. Through collective action, they address global challenges that transcend national borders, such as pandemics and economic instability. These organizations also help smaller countries assert their interests in a global forum, ensuring equitable development.
Quick Tip: International organizations help maintain peace by providing a platform for diplomacy and resolving conflicts without resorting to war.

Indigenous peoples' rights include the right to self-determination, cultural preservation, land ownership, and access to natural resources. They have the right to live according to their traditional customs and to maintain their social and cultural identities. International bodies like the United Nations have recognized these rights, encouraging countries to protect indigenous populations from exploitation and discrimination. Additionally, indigenous communities have a right to participate in decisions affecting their lands and ways of life.
Quick Tip: Indigenous rights emphasize self-determination, land ownership, and cultural preservation, ensuring communities are not marginalized or exploited.

Globalization has led to greater economic liberalization in India, resulting in increased foreign investment and trade. The rise of technology and digital services has boosted India’s IT sector and created job opportunities. However, globalization has also led to widening income inequality and the erosion of traditional industries. Globalization has influenced cultural norms, leading to a blend of Western and Indian values, but has also challenged local businesses unable to compete with global giants.
Quick Tip: Globalization brings both opportunities and challenges: economic growth and technological advancement but also income inequality and cultural changes.

The main bases for state reorganization in India include linguistic and cultural factors, which aim to ensure better governance and representation. Linguistic reorganization was the primary basis for the formation of states like Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. Other factors include administrative convenience and economic viability, which help streamline governance and promote development. The creation of smaller states helps address regional disparities, providing local governments with more autonomy to address specific needs.
Quick Tip: The reorganization of states in India is based on linguistic, cultural, administrative, and economic factors to ensure effective governance.

Climate change and deforestation are major global environmental issues. Climate change can be mitigated through international agreements like the Paris Agreement, focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Deforestation can be combated by promoting afforestation and sustainable land management practices. Governments, businesses, and individuals must work together to implement green technologies, reduce carbon footprints, and conserve natural resources. The cooperation of nations is crucial in these efforts to protect the global environment and future generations.
Quick Tip: Climate change and deforestation can be mitigated through international agreements and sustainable practices, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.

Human rights and terrorism are closely linked to global security concerns. The violation of human rights often leads to unrest, which can fuel terrorism. The protection of fundamental freedoms such as speech, religion, and assembly is essential for the stability of societies. On the other hand, terrorism undermines the safety and security of nations and can provoke violations of human rights in response. Global cooperation is vital in combating terrorism while ensuring the protection of human rights. Nations must create frameworks that balance security measures and uphold democratic principles, as terrorism thrives in conditions of inequality and oppression.
Quick Tip: Terrorism is often rooted in social, political, and economic grievances; addressing human rights violations can help prevent terrorist movements.

The State Reorganisation Commission (SRC), established in 1953, aimed to reorganize states in India on linguistic lines to improve administrative efficiency and address regional demands. The primary objectives were to assess the administrative boundaries and ensure that states could effectively manage their governance. The SRC's recommendations included the formation of new states based on linguistic considerations, such as the creation of Andhra Pradesh. The commission also proposed that the size of the states be manageable, allowing for balanced development and the reduction of ethnic tensions. These recommendations greatly influenced the creation of new states in India, promoting a more effective and equitable governance structure.
Quick Tip: The SRC’s work laid the foundation for states in India to be reorganized based on linguistic and cultural homogeneity, reducing regional tensions.

The National Emergency in India was declared in 1975 due to internal disturbances, political instability, and widespread unrest. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi cited threats to national security and the functioning of the government. The emergency allowed the government to bypass constitutional checks and curtail civil liberties. The consequences were significant: the suspension of elections, restrictions on free speech, and the imprisonment of political opponents. The emergency also led to the centralization of power, altering the democratic fabric of India. Although it was lifted in 1977, the period is remembered as a time of authoritarian rule, highlighting the need for vigilance in maintaining democracy.
Quick Tip: The National Emergency showed the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of protecting democratic institutions and civil liberties.

The separatist movements in North-east India stem from a complex mixture of ethnic, cultural, and political factors. The region has a diverse population with distinct linguistic, cultural, and religious identities, which often led to demands for autonomy or independence. The central government's neglect and imposition of policies that did not account for regional aspirations further fueled dissatisfaction. The consequences of these movements have been both violent and disruptive, leading to insurgency, armed conflict, and the displacement of many people. The government has used military force to quell these movements, resulting in human rights violations. However, peace efforts have focused on negotiations and granting greater autonomy to the states.
Quick Tip: Efforts to resolve separatist movements must include political dialogue, addressing grievances, and promoting inclusive development for marginalized regions.

India and China share a complex and multi-dimensional relationship marked by several disputes. The most significant issue is the territorial dispute, particularly over the regions of Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh. Aksai Chin is administered by China but claimed by India, while Arunachal Pradesh is claimed by China as part of its Tibet Autonomous Region. This dispute has led to military conflicts, notably the 1962 Sino-Indian War, and has created long-standing tensions.


Another issue is economic competition and trade imbalances. India’s trade deficit with China is substantial, as India imports far more than it exports to China, creating economic strain. The growing Chinese economic influence in India’s neighborhood, especially through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has also raised concerns over India’s strategic space, particularly in countries like Pakistan and Sri Lanka. China's involvement in Pakistan, notably the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), has heightened India's security concerns.


To resolve these disputes, India and China must engage in continuous, high-level diplomatic dialogue, focusing on mutual trust-building. Both nations should prioritize confidence-building measures, such as military disengagement and establishing a robust communication framework along the border. The trade imbalance should be addressed by diversifying trade relations and seeking greater market access for Indian goods in China. Additionally, both countries should focus on regional cooperation, ensuring that their geopolitical interests do not lead to unnecessary rivalry.
Quick Tip: Sustained dialogue, confidence-building measures, and collaborative trade practices can mitigate territorial disputes and reduce economic tensions.

India’s relations with its South Asian neighbors have been shaped by both positive and negative factors. One of the positive aspects of India’s relations with its neighbors is its leadership role in the region. India has been instrumental in establishing organizations like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to promote regional cooperation and development. India has also played a key role in humanitarian assistance during natural disasters, such as in Nepal and Sri Lanka.


India’s growing economic influence in the region, particularly in terms of trade, infrastructure development, and investments, has further strengthened its relationships with countries like Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh. India’s strong cultural ties, including shared history and language with many of its neighbors, also contribute to positive relations.


However, India’s relations with its neighbors have not always been smooth. The most significant negative aspect has been the longstanding border disputes with Pakistan and China. The Kashmir issue with Pakistan and the territorial dispute with China have created tension and conflict. Additionally, India’s involvement in the domestic politics of its neighbors, particularly in Sri Lanka and Nepal, has sometimes led to accusations of interference.


Another negative aspect is the growing influence of China in the region, which challenges India’s traditional dominance in South Asia. China’s increasing economic engagement with countries like Sri Lanka and Pakistan has created a competitive environment for India.


To enhance relations, India must adopt a more cooperative approach with its neighbors, focusing on resolving disputes through diplomatic channels, expanding trade ties, and providing regional leadership while respecting the sovereignty of its neighbors.
Quick Tip: A balanced approach that emphasizes both economic cooperation and conflict resolution is key to strengthening regional ties in South Asia.

India's foreign policy is shaped by a variety of factors, reflecting the country’s security concerns, economic interests, regional dynamics, and global aspirations. National security has been a primary determinant in shaping India’s foreign relations, particularly due to the challenges posed by neighboring countries such as Pakistan and China. India’s commitment to maintaining its territorial integrity and securing its borders influences its defense and diplomatic strategies. The pursuit of strategic autonomy, non-alignment, and military preparedness has historically been central to India’s security policy.


Economic considerations also play a crucial role in shaping India’s foreign policy. As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, India seeks to secure its place in the global market through strategic trade partnerships and investments. The "Act East" and "Look West" policies are part of India's efforts to engage with key regions such as Southeast Asia and the Middle East to enhance its economic ties and energy security. India’s participation in multilateral organizations such as BRICS, WTO, and G20 is part of its strategy to integrate more into the global economy.


Regional cooperation, particularly in South Asia, remains another important factor. India's foreign policy emphasizes peace and stability in its neighborhood, focusing on strengthening relationships with neighboring countries while managing regional challenges, including the Kashmir issue with Pakistan.


For India’s foreign policy to be more effective in the future, it must focus on diversifying its strategic partnerships, particularly with emerging powers. India should also enhance its role in multilateral forums to address global challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and trade imbalances. Balancing security interests with economic diplomacy and soft power initiatives will help India assert itself as a leader in regional and global affairs.
Quick Tip: A balanced foreign policy approach, blending national security, economic growth, and global leadership, is essential for India’s success on the world stage.

The declaration of the National Emergency in 1975 marked a significant turning point in Indian politics, leading to a complete transformation of party politics. The Emergency, declared by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, suspended elections, curbed civil liberties, and allowed the government to rule by decree. This period saw the suppression of political opposition, the arrest of leaders, and restrictions on the press.


Prior to the Emergency, the Indian National Congress (INC) was the dominant political party, enjoying widespread support due to its leadership under Jawaharlal Nehru and later Indira Gandhi. However, the imposition of the Emergency led to a massive shift in the political landscape. The Emergency alienated large sections of the population, leading to the formation of new political alliances.


The most significant political change post-Emergency was the rise of the Janata Party. The Janata Party, which emerged from the alliance of opposition parties, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and other factions, won the 1977 general elections, ending the Congress party’s long hold on power. This marked the first major shift in party politics since independence. The defeat of the INC demonstrated a growing disillusionment with authoritarian rule and led to the strengthening of democratic institutions.


The political change after the Emergency also saw the rise of regional parties, which began to challenge the dominance of national parties. Regional issues gained prominence, and parties like the DMK, TMC, and others became influential at the state level.


In conclusion, the Emergency fundamentally altered the party politics of India. It led to the weakening of the Congress's dominance and the rise of multi-party politics, with a stronger focus on regional representation and the protection of democratic rights.
Quick Tip: The Emergency in India led to significant political shifts, including the rise of opposition coalitions, the Janata Party, and regional parties, emphasizing the importance of democratic processes.