CBSE Class 10 Social Science Previous Year Question Paper 2018 with Solutions

The CBSE Class 10 Social Science Previous Year Question Paper for 2018 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.

1. A challenge is not just any problem but an opportunity for progress.’ Analyze the statement. (1)

This statement emphasizes the positive aspects of facing challenges. It suggests that challenges, while often seen as obstacles or problems, actually present opportunities for growth, learning, and development. When we confront and overcome challenges, we gain experience, knowledge, and skills that contribute to our progress. This perspective encourages resilience and a growth mindset, viewing challenges as catalysts for improvement rather than mere hurdles.

2. Classify resources on the basis of origin. (1)

Resources can generally be classified into two categories based on their origin:

• Biotic Resources: These are resources obtained from the biosphere and have life, such as flora (plants), fauna (animals), fisheries, livestock, etc.
• Abiotic Resources: These are resources that are comprised of non-living things. Examples include land, water, air, minerals, and metals.

3. Why did the Roman Catholic Church impose control over publishers and booksellers? (1)

The Roman Catholic Church imposed control over publishers and booksellers to maintain its authority and prevent the spread of ideas that were contrary to its doctrines. During times like the Renaissance and the Protestant Reformation, the Church sought to curb the dissemination of heretical and secular ideas that challenged its teachings and authority. Controlling what was published and sold was a means to regulate the flow of information and maintain doctrinal purity.

OR

Why do novels use vernacular? (1)

Novels use vernacular to make stories more relatable and realistic for their readers. Vernacular language is the language or dialect spoken by the ordinary people in a particular region or country. By using vernacular, novelists can accurately capture the cultural nuances, social contexts, and the authentic voices of their characters, making the narrative more engaging and immersive for the reader.

4. Why were big European powers met in Berlin in 1885? (1)

The major European powers met in Berlin in 1885 for the Berlin Conference, which was convened to regulate European colonization and trade in Africa. The purpose was to avoid conflict among European nations by establishing rules for the division and colonization of African territories, marking the start of the “Scramble for Africa.”

OR

Why were merchants from towns in Europe began to move countryside in seventeenth and eighteenth centuries? (1)

European merchants began moving to the countryside in the 17th and 18th centuries primarily due to the enclosure movement and the opportunities for proto-industrialization. They sought to escape the restrictive practices of urban guilds, find cheaper labor, and capitalize on rural resources and markets. This migration played a significant role in the development of rural industries and the eventual rise of the Industrial Revolution.

OR

5.When we produce goods by exploiting natural resources, in which category of economic sector such activities come? (1)

Producing goods by exploiting natural resources falls under the ‘Primary Sector’ of the economy. This sector involves the extraction and production of raw materials, such as farming, mining, forestry, and fishing.

6. Give any two examples of informal sector of credit. (1)

Two examples of the informal sector of credit are:

• Moneylenders: Individuals who provide loans at high interest rates.
• Local Traders: Small-scale traders who provide credit to customers or suppliers, often informally.

7. State any two goals of development other than income. (1)

Two goals of development other than income are:

• Equity: Ensuring fair and just access to resources and opportunities for all sections of society.
• Environmental Sustainability: Preserving natural resources and the environment for future generations.

8. Explain the three factors that are crucial in deciding the outcome of politics of social divisions. (3)

The three crucial factors in deciding the outcome of politics of social divisions are:

• How people perceive their identities: If people see their identities in singular and exclusive terms, it can lead to conflict.
• How political leaders raise the demands of any community: It depends on how political leaders raise demands on behalf of a community, whether in a divisive or accommodative manner.
• Government’s reaction: The way the government responds to demands of different groups and how it handles social divisions.

9. Describe any three provisions of amendment made in ‘Indian Constitution in 1992 for making ‘Three-Tier’ government more effective and powerful. (3)

Three provisions of the 1992 amendment for making ‘Three-Tier’ government more effective are:

• Mandatory holding of regular elections to local government bodies.
• Reservation of seats in local bodies for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and women.
• Establishment of State Finance Commissions to ensure the financial stability and endowment of resources to local governments.

10. “Secularism is not an ideology of some political parties or persons, but it is one of the foundations of our country.” Examine the statement. (3)

This statement reflects the idea that secularism is a fundamental aspect of India’s constitutional framework and not just a political ideology. Secularism in India implies treating all religions equally by the state, with no state religion. It emphasizes the state’s neutrality in religious matters and the equal protection of all religions under the law. This fundamental principle underpins India’s approach to managing its diverse religious composition, ensuring harmony and respect among different religious communities.

11. How is the issue of sustainability important for development? Explain with examples. (3)

Sustainability is crucial for development as it ensures that meeting current needs does not compromise the ability of future generations to meet their needs. For example, using renewable energy sources like solar and wind power instead of fossil fuels helps in reducing carbon emissions, ensuring cleaner air and mitigating climate change. Sustainable agriculture practices, which include the use of organic fertilizers and crop rotation, help in maintaining soil health and biodiversity, ensuring food security for future generations. Sustainable development balances economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity.

12.Why is cheap and affordable credit important for the country’s development ? Explain any three reasons. (3)

• Encourages Entrepreneurship: Affordable credit allows more people to start and expand businesses, leading to job creation and economic growth.
• Enhances Consumer Spending: With access to affordable credit, consumers can purchase goods and services, which drives demand and stimulates the economy.
• Reduces Inequality: It gives low-income groups and small businesses the opportunity to improve their livelihoods, thereby reducing economic disparities.

13 Distinguish the service conditions of organized sector with that of unorganized sector. (3)

• Job Security: The organized sector offers greater job security compared to the unorganized sector, where jobs are often temporary.
• Working Conditions: Employees in the organized sector usually enjoy better working conditions, including regulated working hours and safe working environments, unlike in the unorganized sector.
• Benefits and Social Security: The organized sector provides benefits like pensions, health insurance, and paid leave, which are generally absent in the unorganized sector.

14. How can consumer awareness be spread among consumers to avoid exploitation in the market place? Explain any three ways. (3)

• Education and Awareness Programs: Conducting educational campaigns and workshops to inform consumers about their rights and how to exercise them.
• Media Campaigns: Utilizing television, radio, and social media to spread awareness about consumer rights, redressal mechanisms, and safe buying practices.
• Encouraging the Use of Consumer Forums: Educating consumers about how to approach consumer forums and legal avenues to address grievances related to exploitation or unfair trade practices.

15. “Dense and efficient network of transport is a pre-requisite for local and national development.” Analyse the statement. (3)

• Economic Growth: Efficient transport networks facilitate the movement of goods and services, boosting trade and commerce, which are vital for economic development.
• Connectivity and Accessibility: Good transport infrastructure connects remote areas to major cities, improving access to markets, education, and healthcare.
• Employment and Mobility: A robust transport system creates employment opportunities and enhances the mobility of the workforce, contributing to the overall socio-economic development of the country.

16. How has the ever increasing number of industries in India made worse position by exerting pressure on existing fresh water resources? Explain. (3)

• Increased Consumption: The growing number of industries has led to a higher consumption of fresh water for various industrial processes, reducing the availability of water for other purposes.
• Pollution of Water Bodies: Industrial waste often gets discharged into rivers and lakes, leading to pollution of fresh water resources, making it unfit for human consumption and harming aquatic ecosystems.
• Depletion of Groundwater: Many industries rely on groundwater extraction, leading to a significant drop in groundwater levels and affecting the natural replenishment of these sources.

17. “”The “Print Revolution’ had transformed the lives of people changing their relationship to information and knowledge.” Analyse the statement. (3)

• Accessibility to Information: The Print Revolution made books and newspapers widely available, democratizing access to information and knowledge.
• Education and Enlightenment: It contributed to increased literacy rates and the spread of new ideas, fostering an era of enlightenment and scientific thinking.
• Challenge to Authority: The widespread availability of printed material challenged the authority of traditional institutions like the Church and the State, paving the way for social and political reforms.

OR

Distinguish between the themes of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ and ‘Jane Eyre’ novels written by Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte respectively. (3)

• ‘Pride and Prejudice’: Focuses on themes of marriage, class, and social reputation, emphasizing the societal norms of early 19th-century England.
• ‘Jane Eyre’: Centers around themes of morality, religion, and feminism, portraying the struggles of a young woman against the rigid social norms of the time.

18.Describe the impact of “Rinderpest’ on people’s livelihoods and local economy in Africa in the 1890s. (3)

Decimation of Cattle: Rinderpest led to the mass death of cattle, a primary source of livelihood for many African communities, severely impacting their way of life and economy.

Food Shortage: The loss of cattle resulted in a shortage of food products like milk and meat, leading to malnutrition and increased food prices.

Social and Economic Disruption: The epidemic disrupted the traditional agricultural practices and trade, leading to economic instability and social upheaval.

OR

Describe any three major problems faced by Indian cotton weavers in the nineteenth century.

• Competition from British Goods: Indian weavers faced stiff competition from cheap, machine-made British textiles, leading to a decline in demand for their handwoven products.
• Depletion of Raw Materials: The diversion of cotton to British industries led to a shortage of quality raw materials for Indian weavers.
• Decline in Patronage: The loss of royal patronage and the changing tastes of the Indian elite towards British goods further impacted the traditional weaving industry.

OR

Describe any three steps taken to clean up London during the nineteenth century. (3)

• Introduction of Sewage Systems: To tackle the issue of sanitation, an extensive sewage system was developed, significantly improving public health.
• Building of Public Housing: To address the problem of overcrowded slums, public housing projects were initiated.
• Regulations on Industrial Pollution: Laws were enacted to control industrial emissions and reduce air pollution, leading to improved air quality.

19.”Democracy stands much superior to any other form of government in promoting dignity and freedom of the individual.” Justify this statement. (5)

• Equality and Freedom: Democracy is based on the principle of equality and guarantees fundamental rights to all citizens, ensuring the dignity and freedom of individuals.
• Empowerment of Citizens: Democracies empower individuals by giving them the right to vote, express opinions, and participate in decision-making processes.
• Protection of Rights: Democratic governments are accountable to their citizens and are bound by laws and constitutions that protect individual freedoms and rights.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Democracies respect and celebrate diversity, allowing various cultural and social groups to coexist and express themselves freely.
• Rule of Law: The democratic system operates under the rule of law, ensuring that all individuals, including the most powerful, are subject to the law, which upholds individual dignity and freedom.

OR

“Democracies lead to peaceful and harmonious life among citizens.” Justify this statement. (5)

• Conflict Resolution: Democracies provide mechanisms for the peaceful resolution of conflicts and grievances through dialogue and legal means.
• Representation and Inclusivity: By representing diverse groups and interests, democracies promote inclusivity and cooperation among different sections of society.
• Protection of Minority Rights: Democratic governments protect the rights of minorities, preventing marginalization and fostering social harmony.
• Rule of Law: The adherence to the rule of law in democracies ensures justice and fairness, contributing to social stability and peace.
• Civic Engagement: Democracies encourage active civic engagement and participation, fostering a sense of belonging and community among citizens.

20.How has foreign trade been integrating markets of different countries ? Explain with examples. (5)

• Global Supply Chains: Foreign trade has led to the creation of global supply chains, where different stages of production are carried out in different countries. For example, the manufacturing of electronics involves sourcing components from various countries.
• Market Expansion: Companies can expand their markets beyond national borders, as seen in the global presence of brands like Apple, Samsung, and Nike.
• Price Stabilization: International trade helps in stabilizing prices by importing goods when there is a shortage and exporting when there is a surplus, as observed in oil and agricultural markets.
• Cultural Exchange: Trade facilitates the exchange of cultural products like movies, music, and food, integrating markets and cultures.
• Technological Transfer: Trading globally allows for the transfer of technology and expertise between countries, as seen in the automotive and IT industries.

OR How do we feel the impact of globalization on our daily life? Explain with examples. (5)

• Consumer Choices: Globalization has expanded consumer choices, making products from all over the world available, like smartphones, cuisines, and clothing brands.
• Employment Opportunities: It has created job opportunities through multinational companies, BPOs, and export-oriented industries.
• Cultural Exchange: Globalization facilitates cultural exchanges, evident in the popularity of international music, movies, and festivals.
• Information Access: The global information network allows instant access to information and news from around the world.
• Economic Impact: Global economic trends can affect local economies, as seen in the impact of global financial crises or the spread of technology.

21. Describe any five major functions of political parties performed in a democracy. (5)

• Forming Governments: Political parties contest elections, and the winning party forms the government.
• Policy Making: Parties develop policies and programs that reflect their ideology and present them to the electorate.
• Representation: They represent different sections of society and articulate their interests and demands.
• Opposition Role: The party or parties not in power play the role of the opposition, scrutinizing the government’s work and offering alternative policies.
• Political Socialization: Parties educate and mobilize citizens on political and social issues, thereby playing a key role in shaping public opinion.

22.Describe the explosive conditions prevailed in Balkans after 1871 in Europe. (5)

• Nationalism: The Balkans experienced a rise in nationalism among different ethnic groups seeking independence.
• Political Instability: The region was characterized by political instability due to the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire and rivalry among nationalist groups.
• Territorial Disputes: There were numerous territorial disputes among Balkan states, leading to conflicts and tension.
• Great Powers’ Interference: The strategic location of the Balkans attracted the interests of European powers like Austria-Hungary, Russia, and Britain, further complicating the situation.
• Series of Wars: The Balkan Wars and the subsequent tensions contributed to the outbreak of World War I.

OR

Describe the role of different religious groups in the development of anti-colonial feelings in Vietnam. (5)

The role of different religious groups in the development of anti-colonial feelings in Vietnam was significant and multifaceted. Here’s a detailed analysis:

1. Buddhism: Buddhism, deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture, played a crucial role in anti-colonial sentiments. Monks and nuns were at the forefront of protests against French colonial rule. They used their influence in villages and cities to mobilize public opinion against the colonial administration. The Buddhist pagodas became centers for nationalist meetings and discussions, spreading the message of resistance.
2. Cao Dai: The Cao Dai religion, a syncretic Vietnamese religious movement, also participated actively in the anti-colonial struggle. Founded in the 1920s, Cao Dai blended elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity. It quickly became a political force, advocating for Vietnamese independence and providing a unified religious and nationalist identity against French colonialism.
3. Hoa Hao: Founded by Huynh Phu So, the Hoa Hao movement was another significant religious group involved in the anti-colonial movement. It gained a massive following in the Mekong Delta. Hoa Hao followers, known for their simplicity and emphasis on social work, actively participated in acts of resistance against the French. The movement’s leader, Huynh Phu So, was a vocal critic of the French colonial government, which eventually led to his arrest and death under mysterious circumstances.
4. Catholic Church: The role of the Catholic Church was more complex. While the French colonial regime heavily favored Catholicism, leading to conversions and privileges for Catholic communities, there were also instances of Catholic Vietnamese individuals and groups who opposed colonial rule. Some Catholic priests and laypeople played a role in nationalist activities, despite the general alignment of the Church with French interests.
5. Influence on National Leaders: Religious movements and their leaders had a profound impact on Vietnamese nationalist leaders. For example, Ho Chi Minh, although not overtly religious, understood the importance of these movements in mobilizing the masses. This led to a tacit alliance at times between the religious groups and the broader nationalist movement, despite differing ideologies and visions for Vietnam’s future.

These religious groups, with their diverse doctrines and approaches, contributed significantly to the anti-colonial narrative in Vietnam. They provided a framework for social and political organization, moral and spiritual motivation, and a unifying identity against the French colonial rule. Their involvement was crucial in shaping the course of Vietnam’s struggle for independence.

23.Why is the economic strength of a country measured by the development of manufacturing industries? Explain with examples.

• Job Creation: Manufacturing industries create a large number of jobs, both directly and indirectly. For instance, the automotive industry in Germany provides employment to millions and stimulates job creation in related sectors.
• Value Addition: These industries add value to raw materials by turning them into finished goods. For example, the cotton textile industry converts raw cotton into fabrics, which have a higher market value.
• Boost to Trade: Manufacturing contributes significantly to a country’s exports. Countries like China and South Korea have strengthened their economies by becoming global manufacturing hubs.
• Economic Diversification: Manufacturing reduces dependence on a single economic activity, such as agriculture or services, leading to a more balanced and resilient economy.
• Technological Advancement: It fosters innovation and technological development, as seen in Japan’s electronics and robotics industries.

24.How did Non-Cooperation movement start with participation of middle class people in the cities? Explain its impact on the economic front.

• The Non-Cooperation Movement, started by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920, saw significant participation from the urban middle class, who were discontented with colonial policies.
• Economic Impact: The movement led to a boycott of foreign goods, especially British textiles, impacting the colonial economy. Indian textiles and products were promoted as alternatives.
• Decline in Imports: The boycott resulted in a substantial decline in imports from Britain, hurting the British economy and making a statement against colonial rule.
• Swadeshi Movement: As part of the movement, there was a resurgence in indigenous industries, promoting self-reliance and reducing dependency on British products.
• Financial Impact: The refusal to pay taxes and the withdrawal of funds from government banks dealt a blow to the colonial administration’s financial stability.

OR Why was Congress reluctant to allow women to hold any position of authority within the organisation? How did women participate in Civil Disobedience Movement ? Explain.

• The Congress was initially reluctant to allow women in positions of authority due to prevailing social norms and the belief that politics was a male domain.
• Despite this, women played a significant role in the Civil Disobedience Movement. They participated in protests, picketing of liquor shops, and boycotting foreign goods.
• Women like Sarojini Naidu and Kasturba Gandhi emerged as prominent leaders, leading marches and inspiring other women to join the movement.
• Women also got involved in the preparation of salt during the Salt Satyagraha, symbolically challenging the British salt laws.
• Their participation marked a significant step towards gender equality and laid the groundwork for women’s active involvement in future political movements in India.

25.”The Government of India has introduced various institutional and technological reforms to improve agriculture in the 1980s and 1990s.” Support this statement with examples.

• Introduction of HYV Seeds: The government promoted High Yielding Variety (HYV) seeds to increase agricultural productivity.
• Credit Facilities: Institutional credit facilities were expanded to farmers, reducing their dependence on informal credit sources.
• Irrigation Projects: Large-scale irrigation projects were undertaken to provide a stable water supply for agriculture.
• Technology and Mechanization: The use of technology and mechanization in farming was encouraged, leading to modernization of agriculture.
• Support and Subsidies: The government provided subsidies on fertilizers and other agricultural inputs to make them affordable for farmers.

OR Compare ‘intensive subsistence farming’ with that of “commercial farming’ practiced in India.

Intensive Subsistence Farming vs. Commercial Farming in India:

1. Purpose and Scale:
   • Intensive Subsistence Farming: This type of farming is primarily aimed at self-sufficiency. Farmers grow crops and rear animals to meet their own family’s needs. It’s practiced on small plots of land and involves labor-intensive methods.
   • Commercial Farming: In contrast, commercial farming is aimed at producing crops and livestock for sale in the market, often on a large scale. This type of farming is profit-oriented and involves larger landholdings.
2. Input and Labor:
   • Intensive Subsistence Farming: It relies heavily on manual labor. Farmers use traditional tools and methods, and the input of chemical fertilizers and pesticides is minimal or used judiciously.
   • Commercial Farming: This farming employs modern agricultural techniques, including high levels of mechanization, use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified seeds to increase productivity.
3. Type of Crops and Livestock:
   • Intensive Subsistence Farming: The crops grown are usually staple foods such as rice, wheat, and millets. Livestock rearing, if present, is typically on a small scale.
   • Commercial Farming: Focuses on cash crops like tea, coffee, cotton, and sugarcane. Livestock rearing in commercial farming is often for the purpose of selling meat, milk, or other animal products.
4. Yield and Efficiency:
   • Intensive Subsistence Farming: The yield per hectare is often lower compared to commercial farming due to the reliance on traditional methods. However, the efficiency per unit of labor can be quite high.
   • Commercial Farming: This type of farming aims for high yield and efficiency. The use of modern technology and practices enables commercial farms to produce more output per hectare.
5. Market Dependency and Risks:
   • Intensive Subsistence Farming: Less dependent on market fluctuations as the primary goal is self-sufficiency. The risks associated with market prices are minimal.
   • Commercial Farming: Highly dependent on market conditions. Prices of cash crops in the market significantly affect the income of farmers. It is also more susceptible to global market trends and economic policies.

26.(A) Two features a and b are marked on the given political outline map of India.

Identify these features with the help of the following information and write their correct names on the lines marked near them:

(a) The place where the Indian National Congress Session was held.

(b) The place where Gandhiji organized ‘Satyagraha” in favour of cotton mill workers.

(B) Locate and label the following with appropriate symbols on the same given outline political map of India.

(i) Raja Sansi International Airport

(ii) Bhadravati Iron and Steel Plant

(iii) Software Technology Park of West Bengal

Note: The following questions are for the Visually Impaired candidates only in lieu of Q. No. 26:

(i) Name the state where the Indigo planters organized Satyagraha.

(ii) Name the state where Gandhiji violated the Salt Law.

(iii) Name the state where Raja Sansi International Airport is located.

(iv) Name the state where Salem Iron and Steel Plant is located.

(v) Name the state where Narora Nuclear Power Plant is located.

(A) Identification of Features on Map (For sighted students):

(a) The place where the Indian National Congress Session was held:

• The session referred to here could be one of the many historic sessions of the Indian National Congress. As the specific year or session isn’t mentioned, it’s challenging to identify the exact location. However, some notable sessions include the 1920 Nagpur session (where the Non-cooperation Movement was launched), the 1927 Madras session, or the 1911 Calcutta session.

(b) The place where Gandhiji organized ‘Satyagraha’ in favour of cotton mill workers:

• This refers to Ahmedabad, where Mahatma Gandhi organized a Satyagraha in 1918 in support of the cotton mill workers who were demanding higher wages.

(B) Locate and Label on Map (For sighted students):

(i) Raja Sansi International Airport:

• This airport is located in Amritsar, Punjab.

(ii) Bhadravati Iron and Steel Plant:

• This plant is located in Bhadravati, Karnataka.

(iii) Software Technology Park of West Bengal:

• The major Software Technology Park in West Bengal is located in Kolkata (Salt Lake area).

For the Visually Impaired Candidates:

(i) Name the state where the Indigo planters organized Satyagraha:

• The Indigo Satyagraha was organized in Bihar.

(ii) Name the state where Gandhiji violated the Salt Law:

• Gandhiji violated the Salt Law in Gujarat during the Dandi March.

(iii) Name the state where Raja Sansi International Airport is located:

• Raja Sansi International Airport is located in Punjab.

(iv) Name the state where Salem Iron and Steel Plant is located:

• Salem Iron and Steel Plant is located in Tamil Nadu.

(v) Name the state where Narora Nuclear Power Plant is located:

• Narora Nuclear Power Plant is located in Uttar Pradesh.