CBSE Class 10 Social Science Previous Year Question Paper 2016 with Solutions

The CBSE Class 10 Social Science Previous Year Question Paper for 2016 provides valuable practice material for students preparing for their board exams. This document includes a set of questions covering various topics in social science, allowing students to assess their knowledge and test-taking skills. The solutions provided offer guidance and explanations to help students understand the correct answers and improve their performance. This resource serves as a useful tool for self-assessment and exam preparation.

CBSE Class 10 Social Science Previous Year Question Paper 2016 With Solutions

Time Allowed: 3 hours                                                              Maximum Marks: 90 Marks

1. Who remarked, “when France sneezes the rest of Europe catches cold”. (1)

The statement “when France sneezes, the rest of Europe catches cold” is attributed to Prince Metternich of Austria.

OR

Who were called colons in Vietnam? (1)

In Vietnam, the term “colons” referred to the French colonial settlers or colonists who lived in Vietnam during the period of French colonial rule.

2. Why should the use of cattle cake as fuel be discouraged? (1)

The use of cattle cake as fuel should be discouraged because it deprives cattle of valuable nutrition and contributes to their malnutrition.

3. Distinguish between pressure groups and political parties by stating any one point of distinction. (1)

One distinction between pressure groups and political parties is that pressure groups do not contest elections, while political parties do.

4. Why did India adopt a multi-party system? If any damage is done to a consumer by a trader, under which consumer’s rightone can move to consumer court to get compensation.(1)

India adopted a multi-party system to ensure diverse representation and accommodate different political ideologies. Consumer disputes can be addressed under the Right to Seek Redressal in consumer courts.

5. Name any two sectional interest groups. (1)

Two sectional interest groups are farmers’ unions and trade associations.

6. Why do MNCs set up their offices and factories in those regions where they get cheap labour and other resources? (1)

MNCs set up in regions with cheap labor and resources to reduce production costs and maximize profits.

7.If any damage is done to a consumer by a trader, under which consumer right one can move to consumer court to get compensation. (1)

To seek compensation for damages, consumers can invoke the Right to Redressal in consumer courts.

8. Why is the supervision of the functioning of formal sources of loans necessary? (1)

The supervision of formal sources of loans is necessary to ensure that they adhere to ethical lending practices, provide fair interest rates, and do not exploit borrowers. It helps protect consumers from predatory lending and ensures transparency in financial transactions.

9. The decade of 1830 had brought great economic hardship in Europe”. Support the statement with arguments. (3)

The decade of 1830 in Europe was marked by economic hardship due to various factors. Crop failures and famines led to food shortages and increased prices, causing suffering among the rural population. The industrialization process disrupted traditional livelihoods and led to urbanization, where workers faced poor working conditions and low wages in factories. Additionally, political upheaval and conflicts further destabilized the economy. These challenges combined to create widespread economic distress during the 1830s in Europe.

OR

“The Ho Chi Minh Trail became advantageous to Vietnamese in the war against the U.S.” Supports the statement with arguments. (3)

The Ho Chi Minh Trail, a network of supply routes through Laos and Cambodia during the Vietnam War, provided significant advantages to the Vietnamese forces against the U.S. It allowed North Vietnam to transport troops, supplies, and equipment to the South, sustaining the communist insurgency. The trail’s extensive cover in dense forests made it difficult for the U.S. to target, contributing to its effectiveness. Moreover, the ability to maintain a continuous flow of resources bolstered the resilience of the Vietnamese forces, ultimately playing a crucial role in their ability to withstand U.S. military efforts.

10. What type of flag was designed during the ‘Swadeshi Movement’ in Bengal? Explain its main features.(3)

During the Swadeshi Movement in Bengal, a new flag was designed known as the “Swadeshi Flag.” This flag was characterized by its three horizontal stripes of red, green, and yellow from top to bottom. The red stripe symbolized the struggle for freedom, the green represented the fertile land of India, and the yellow represented the masses. The Swadeshi Flag became a symbol of the movement and the aspiration for self-reliance and independence from British colonial rule.

11. “The plantation workers in Assam had their own understanding of Mahatma Gandhi and the notion of Swaraj”. Support the statement with arguments. (3)

The plantation workers in Assam during the Indian independence movement had their unique interpretation of Mahatma Gandhi’s principles and the concept of Swaraj (self-rule). They saw Gandhi as a symbol of hope and believed that his message of non-violence and civil disobedience could bring about positive change in their lives. These workers, who faced harsh working conditions and exploitation, found inspiration in Gandhi’s call for social justice and freedom. Their understanding of Swaraj extended beyond political independence to encompass economic and social empowerment, making them active participants in the struggle for a better life.

12. Classify industries based on source of raw material. How are they different from each other? (3)

Industries can be classified based on their source of raw material into three categories:

1. Agro-based Industries: These industries use agricultural products as their primary raw materials. Examples include food processing, cotton textiles, and sugar mills. They rely on crops and agricultural produce.
2. Mineral-based Industries: These industries extract and process minerals and ores for manufacturing. Examples include iron and steel, cement, and aluminum industries. They depend on mineral resources like iron ore, limestone, and bauxite.
3. Forest-based Industries: These industries utilize forest products for manufacturing. Examples include paper and pulp, timber, and furniture industries. They rely on wood and other forest resources.

The key difference lies in the source of their primary raw material, with each category using specific resources from agriculture, minerals, or forests.

13.’Consumption of energy in all forms has been rising all over the country. There is an urgent need to develop a sustainable path of energy development and energy saving’. Suggest and explain any three measures to solve this burning problem. (3)

To address the rising energy consumption and promote sustainability, three measures can be taken:

1. Promote Energy Efficiency: Encourage the use of energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and industrial processes. Implement energy-efficient building standards and retrofitting programs to reduce energy wastage.
2. Increase Renewable Energy: Invest in renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower. Provide incentives for the adoption of clean energy technologies and grid integration.
3. Awareness and Education: Raise public awareness about energy conservation and sustainable practices. Educate individuals and industries about the benefits of energy-saving measures and responsible energy consumption.

These measures can help reduce energy demand, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and move towards a sustainable energy future.

14. Suggest any three steps to minimize the environmental degradation caused by industrial development in India. (3)

To minimize environmental degradation caused by industrial development in India:

1. Implement strict pollution control measures and enforce environmental regulations.
2. Promote sustainable industrial practices, including waste management and resource conservation.
3. Encourage industries to adopt cleaner technologies and invest in research for eco-friendly processes.

15. What is meant by regional political party? State the conditions required to be recognized as a ‘regional political party’. (3)

In India, a regional political party represents the interests of a particular region within the country. To gain recognition as a regional political party, the party must meet certain criteria, including securing at least 6% of the total votes in a state’s legislative assembly elections or winning a minimum of 2 seats in that state’s legislative assembly. This recognition allows regional parties to participate more effectively in state-level politics and advocate for the specific concerns and issues of their respective regions.

16 What are public interest pressure groups? Describe their functioning. (3)

Public interest pressure groups are organizations that work to promote and protect the broader interests and well-being of society as a whole, rather than advocating for specific narrow interests. They operate by raising awareness about important social or environmental issues, conducting research, and advocating for policies and reforms that benefit the public. These groups often engage in activities such as lobbying, public education campaigns, and advocacy to influence government decisions and public opinion in the interest of the greater good. Their primary focus is on issues of public concern, and they aim to bring about positive changes for the benefit of society.

17. Which three challenges do you feel are being faced by political parties in India? Give your opinion. (3)

Political parties in India face several challenges:

1. Regional Fragmentation: The diversity of India’s states and regions makes it challenging for national parties to appeal uniformly across the country. Regional parties often gain prominence, leading to a fragmented political landscape.
2. Corruption and Scandals: Corruption allegations and scams involving politicians erode public trust in political parties. Parties need to address this issue to maintain credibility.
3. Ideological Polarization: Increasing ideological polarization can hinder cooperation and consensus-building among parties, leading to legislative gridlock.

These challenges require political parties to adapt, promote transparency, and focus on inclusive governance to meet the evolving needs of Indian democracy.

18.”Deposits with the banks are beneficial to the depositors as well as to the nation”. Examine the statement. (3)

Deposits with banks offer several benefits:

1. For Depositors: Banks provide a safe place to store money, offer interest on deposits, and enable convenient transactions. Depositors can access funds when needed.
2. For the Nation: Banks use deposits to provide loans to individuals and businesses, driving economic growth. They also contribute to financial stability and fund government initiatives through the money multiplier effect.

Overall, bank deposits are essential for financial security and economic development, benefiting both depositors and the nation.

19. Why had the Indian government put barriers to foreign trade and foreign investments after independence? Analyze the reasons. (3)

The Indian government imposed barriers to foreign trade and foreign investments after independence for several reasons:

1. Economic Self-Reliance: India aimed to reduce dependence on foreign countries and promote self-sufficiency in various sectors.
2. Protecting Domestic Industries: Trade restrictions were imposed to safeguard domestic industries from competition with foreign goods.
3. Preserving Foreign Exchange: To conserve foreign exchange reserves, especially in the early years after independence.
4. Economic Planning: To implement planned economic policies, including the public sector’s dominant role.
5. National Security: Some restrictions were imposed for national security reasons.

These barriers aimed to promote economic development and self-reliance but also faced criticism for limiting international trade and investments.

20. “Rules and regulations are required for the protection of the consumers in the marketplace.” Justify the statement with arguments. (3)

Rules and regulations in the marketplace are essential for consumer protection for several reasons:

1. Quality Assurance: Regulations ensure that products meet safety and quality standards, preventing the sale of substandard or harmful goods.
2. Fair Trade: They promote fair business practices, preventing fraudulent activities and unethical behavior by sellers.
3. Redressal Mechanism: Regulations provide consumers with avenues for complaint resolution and legal recourse in case of disputes.
4. Information Transparency: Regulations mandate clear labeling and disclosure of product information, helping consumers make informed choices.
5. Market Confidence: A regulated marketplace instills confidence in consumers, encouraging economic activity and trust in businesses.

Overall, rules and regulations create a fair, safe, and transparent marketplace that benefits consumers and businesses alike.

21.”Napoleon had destroyed democracy in France but in the administrative field he had incorporated revolutionary principles in order to make the whole system more rational and efficient.” Analyse the statement with arguments.(5)

Napoleon Bonaparte’s rule in France indeed brought about a complex blend of changes. On one hand, he dismantled the democratic institutions established during the French Revolution, concentrating power in himself as a dictator. However, in the administrative realm, Napoleon implemented several revolutionary principles. The Napoleonic Code, a comprehensive legal system, streamlined laws, enhanced uniformity, and promoted equal treatment under the law. He centralized governance, creating efficient administrative structures. Despite curtailing political freedoms, Napoleon’s administrative reforms left a lasting legacy of modernization, influencing legal systems in many countries. This dual nature of his rule exemplifies the intricate interplay of authoritarianism and rational administration.

OR

“The peace negotiations in Geneva followed the division of Vietnam that set in motion a series of events that turned Vietnam into a battle field.” Analyse the statement with arguments. (5)

The statement highlights the critical role of the Geneva Peace Conference in shaping the trajectory of the Vietnam War. Following the division of Vietnam into North and South after the First Indochina War, the conference aimed to establish peace. However, the failure to hold nationwide elections as agreed upon deepened the divide and intensified the conflict. This failure, coupled with Cold War dynamics, led to Vietnam becoming a battleground for the superpowers. The Geneva negotiations marked a pivotal point, setting the stage for a prolonged and devastating war in Vietnam.

22. Why did Mahatma Gandhi decide to call off the Civil Disobedience Movement? Explain. (5)

Mahatma Gandhi decided to call off the Civil Disobedience Movement in 1931 for several reasons. First, he reached a pact known as the Gandhi-Irwin Pact with the British Viceroy, Lord Irwin, which led to the release of political prisoners and discussions on further reforms. Second, there was increasing repression and violence associated with the movement, and Gandhi sought to avoid bloodshed. Third, the movement had achieved some political concessions, and Gandhi believed that it was a strategic pause to reassess and continue the struggle for independence through different means, such as the Round Table Conferences.

23. Explain the importance of conservation of minerals. Highlight any three measures to conserve them. (5)

Conservation of minerals is crucial for sustainable development and preserving natural resources. Here are three key reasons for conserving minerals:

1. Resource Sustainability: Minerals are finite resources, and their overexploitation can deplete them, leading to scarcity for future generations.
2. Environmental Protection: Mining and mineral extraction can harm the environment through habitat destruction and pollution. Conservation measures help minimize these impacts.
3. Economic Stability: A steady supply of minerals is essential for industries and economic growth. Conservation ensures a stable supply chain.

Three measures to conserve minerals include:

1. Efficient Mining Practices: Implementing advanced mining techniques to reduce waste and energy consumption.
2. Recycling: Promoting recycling of minerals from used products to reduce the demand for new mining.
3. Research and Development: Investing in technologies for sustainable mineral extraction and exploration.

24.”Roadways still have an edge over railways in India.” Support the statement with arguments. (5)

“Roadways still have an edge over railways in India” due to several factors. First, India’s extensive road network reaches remote areas, making it accessible where railways can’t. Second, road transport is more flexible and versatile for door-to-door delivery. Third, road infrastructure development is faster and cost-effective compared to railways. However, railways remain essential for long-distance and bulk transportation, offering energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact. The preference between road and rail depends on factors like distance, cargo type, and infrastructure availability.

25.Describe the popular struggle of Bolivia. (5)

The popular struggle in Bolivia, known as the “Water War,” occurred in Cochabamba in the early 2000s. It was a massive protest against the privatization of water resources by foreign corporations. The people of Cochabamba, led by indigenous and social activists, organized protests, strikes, and blockades. The movement successfully pressured the government to cancel the water privatization contract and regain control of their water resources. This struggle highlighted the importance of access to essential resources and the power of grassroots movements in challenging neoliberal policies. Evo Morales, an indigenous leader, played a prominent role in this movement and later became Bolivia’s president, advocating for indigenous rights and social reforms.

26.”Political parties are a necessary condition for a democracy”. Analyse the statement with examples. (5)

Political parties are indeed a necessary condition for a democracy as they play a crucial role in representing the interests of the citizens and facilitating the functioning of democratic institutions. Examples from India illustrate this:

1. Representation: Political parties provide a platform for diverse groups and individuals to express their views and participate in the political process. For instance, parties like the Indian National Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party represent various ideologies and regions.
2. Governance: Political parties compete in elections to form governments. Without parties, it would be challenging to establish stable governments capable of making informed policy decisions.
3. Accountability: Parties hold elected representatives accountable to their promises and policies. Citizens can judge a party’s performance and vote accordingly in the next election.

In essence, political parties are the cornerstone of democratic governance, ensuring representation, competition, and accountability.

27. How can the formal sector loans be made beneficial for poor farmers and workers? Suggest any five measures. (5)

Formal sector loans can be made beneficial for poor farmers and workers through the following measures:

1. Lower Interest Rates: Banks should offer loans at affordable interest rates to make borrowing feasible for low-income individuals.
2. Financial Literacy Programs: Educating borrowers about loan terms and financial management can help them make informed decisions and use loans effectively.
3. Collateral Alternatives: Banks can accept alternative forms of collateral, such as group guarantees or assets like livestock, to expand access to credit.
4. Microfinance Institutions: Supporting microfinance institutions that specialize in serving the poor can provide easier access to credit.
5. Government Initiatives: Government schemes like interest rate subsidies or loan guarantees can make formal sector loans more accessible and beneficial for marginalized groups.

28.Describe the impact of globalisation on Indian economy with examples. (5)

Globalization has had a significant impact on the Indian economy. Here are some key points:

1. Economic Growth: Globalization has contributed to India’s economic growth by opening up markets for Indian goods and services worldwide. Exports of software services and textiles, for example, have surged.
2. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Increased FDI inflows have boosted sectors like telecommunications and retail. Companies like Walmart and Amazon have expanded operations in India.
3. Technology Transfer: Globalization has facilitated technology transfer, leading to advancements in sectors like information technology.
4. Job Creation: It has created job opportunities, particularly in the IT sector.
5. Income Inequality: However, globalization has also exacerbated income inequality, with benefits not evenly distributed.
6. Cultural Exchange: Cultural exchange and exposure to global trends have occurred through media and entertainment.

Overall, globalization has brought both opportunities and challenges to India’s economy.

29. Three features A, B and C are marked on the given political outline map of India (on page 9). Identify these features with the help of the following information and write their correct names on the lines marked in the map: (3)

A. The place where cotton mill workers organised Satyagraha. B. The place related to the calling off the Non-Cooperation Movement. C. The place where the Indian National Congress Session was held.

A – Ahmedabad (Satyagraha by cotton mill workers) B – Allahabad (Calling off Non-Cooperation Movement) C – Gaya (Indian National Congress Session)

The following questions are for the Visually Impaired Candidates only in lieu of Q.No. 29: (29.1) Name the city where cotton mill workers organised Satyagraha.

(29.2) Name the place related to the calling off the Non-Cooperation Movement. (29.3) Where was the Indian National Congress Session held in December 1920?

(29.1) The city where cotton mill workers organized Satyagraha is Ahmedabad. (29.2) The place related to the calling off the Non-Cooperation Movement is Chauri Chaura. (29.3) The Indian National Congress Session held in December 1920 was in Nagpur.

30. On the given political outline map of India (on page 11), locate and label the following with appropriate symbols: (3)

A. Oil Field – Digboi B. Iron and Steel Plant – Bhilai C. Major Sea Port – Kochi .

The following questions are for the Visually Impaired Candidates only in lieu of Q.No. 30: (30.1) (30.2) (30.3) In which state is Digboi oil field located? Name the state where Bhilai Iron and Steel Plant is located. Name the Southernmost major sea port located on the eastern coast of India.

(30.1) Digboi oil field is located in the state of Assam. (30.2) Bhilai Iron and Steel Plant is located in the state of Chhattisgarh. (30.3) The southernmost major sea port located on the eastern coast of India is Chennai.