- Name the major earthquake-prone areas of the world and give details
of the Circum-Pacific Belt. (Answer in 150 words) 10 - Define biosphere and discuss the extent and importance of the biosphere in the earth’s environment. (Answer in 150 words) 10
- Give an idea of the distribution and ecological characteristics of the tropical rain forest and explain the causes of its rapid degradation. (Answer in 150 words) 10
- Discuss how India would achieve self-reliance as well as national development in the context of the globalized world. (Answer in 150 words) 10
- Physical geography has a close relationship with Asia’s population distribution. Discuss some examples where such a relation does not hold good. (Answer in 150 words) 10
- Critically evaluate the depiction of partition horror of India in 1947 in any
contemporary Indian Novel. (Answer in 150 words) 10 - Evaluate the contribution of Dr. Bhabendra Nath Saikia towards film- making in Assam. (Answer in 150 words) 10
- With the dangers of global climate change becoming a reality, it is now time to replace the discourse of economic growth with that of conservation of nature. Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (Answer in 150words) 10
- Elements of dissent and protest were inherent in the preaching of the various Bhakti saints in medieval India. Discuss with examples. (Answer in 150 words) 10
- Is there a difference between urban poor women and their rural counterparts? Elucidate your views with examples. (Answer in 150 words) 10
- Discuss the major factors contributing towards the selection of location for a manufacturing industry and explain with examples the role of market in this regard. (Answer in 250 words) 15
- What are the challenges of urbanization in North-East India? Do you think
the idea of satellite township can address these challenges? Justify
your answer. (Answer in 250 words) 15 - “North-East India is well-equipped to deal with the consequences of a mega
earthquake. ” Analyze the statement with special reference to Assam.
(Answer in 250 words) 15 - What are the two broad categories of socio-religious reform movements in colonial India? How far the western impact contributed to the growth and development of the socio-religious reform movements? (Answer in 250 words) 15
- “Although India has achieved substantial economic growth in recent times,
its biggest challenge today is to bridge the widening of gap between the
rich and the poor.” Analyze this statement and suggest measures
to address this issue. (Answer in 250 words) 15 - What do you mean by feminization of poverty? What steps have been taken in recent times to address the issue? (Answer in 250 words) 15
- What do you mean by soil ecosystem? What are its components? Describe
the functions of soil ecosystem. (Answer in 250 words) 15 - Indian classical music has played a significant role in preserving cultural heritage and strengthening national integrity. Critically analyze with suitable examples. (Answer in 250 words) 15
- Evaluate the major policies of the government of independent India relating to the integration of the tribals in the process of consolidation of India as a nation. (Answer in 250 words) 15
- Evaluate the religious and historical importance of the Puranas in India.
(Answer in 250 words) 15
Category: apsc history
Important Historical Monuments of India – Notes for APSC, ADRE & other Assam Govt job exams
Important Historical Monuments of India – GK Notes for APSC, ADRE & other Assam Govt job exams
Monuments of India portray tradition and diverse cultural brilliance. They are spread across the length and breadth of the country. Historical monuments act as authentic shielding pillars of remarkable artistic mastery. India is rich in civilisation, heritage establishments, royal abodes, and sanctuaries.
Some of the most famous monuments of India include the Red Fort, Konark Sun Temple, Taj Mahal, Golconda Fort, Gateway of India, Golden Temple, India Gate, Ellora and Ajanta Caves, Group of Monuments at Mamallapuram, Qutab Minar, etc.
Monuments are structures or buildings well-known for their culture and architectural legacy. They are long-lasting and popular emblems of Indian history as they depict political and historical information about them.
Sabarmati Ashram |
Mahatma Gandhi |
Gujarat |
Ahmadabad |
Ajanta- Ellora Caves |
Gupta rulers |
Maharashtra |
Aurangabad |
Ajmer Sharif Dargah |
Sultan Shyasuddin |
Rajasthan |
Ajmer |
Jodhpur Fort |
Rao Jodha |
Jodhpur |
|
Belur Math |
Swami Vivekananda |
West Bengal |
Kolkata |
Victoria Memorial |
British Govt. |
Kolkata |
State |
Monument |
Place |
Built by |
Bihar
|
Golghar |
Patna |
British Govt. |
Pathar Ki Masjid |
Patna |
Pervez Shah |
|
Sher Shah’s Tomb |
Sasaram |
Mir Muhammad Aliwal Khan |
|
Vishnupad Temple |
Gaya |
Rani Ahilyabai |
|
Delhi
|
Feroz Shah Kotla |
Delhi |
Ferozshan Tughlaq |
Hauz Khas |
Delhi |
Alauddin Khilji |
|
Humayun Tomb |
Delhi |
Empress Bega Begum |
|
Jama Masjid |
Delhi |
Shahjahan |
|
Jantar-Mantar |
Delhi |
Sawai Jai Singh |
|
Lakshmi Narayan Temple |
Delhi |
Birla Family |
|
Moti Masjid |
Delhi |
Aurangzeb |
|
President House |
Delhi |
British Govt. |
|
Qutub Minar |
Delhi |
Qutubuddin Aibak |
|
Red Fort |
Delhi |
Shahjahan |
|
Safdarjung Tomb |
Delhi |
Shuja-ud-daula |
|
Gujarat |
Sabarmati Ashram |
Ahmadabad |
Mahatma Gandhi |
Nishat Garden |
Srinagar |
Asaf Ali |
|
Shalimar Garden |
Srinagar |
Jahangir |
|
Karnataka |
Gol Gumbaz |
Bijapur |
Yaqut of Dabul |
Maharashtra
|
Ajanta- Ellora Caves |
Aurangabad |
Gupta rulers |
Bibi Ka Maqbara |
Aurangabad |
Aurangzeb |
|
Elephanta Cave |
Mumbai |
Rashtrakuta rulers |
|
Gateway Of India |
Mumbai |
British Govt. |
|
Kanheri Fort |
Mumbai |
Buddhists |
|
Odisha |
Jagannath Temple |
Puri |
Anantavarman Ganga |
Sun Temple |
Konark |
Narasimhadeva I |
|
Punjab |
Golden Temple |
Amritsar |
Guru Ramdas |
Bharatpur Fort |
Bharatpur |
Raja Surajmal Singh |
|
Dilwara Jain Temple |
Mount Abu |
Siddharaja |
|
Hawa Mahal |
Jaipur |
Maharaja Pratap Singh |
|
Jaigarh Fort |
Jaipur |
Sawai Jai Singh |
|
Jodhpur Fort |
Jodhpur |
Rao Jodha |
|
Nahargarh Fort |
Jaipur |
Sawai Jai Singh |
|
Vijaya Stambha |
Chittorgarh |
Maharana Kumbha |
|
Tamil Nadu |
Saint George Fort |
Chennai |
East India Company |
Telangana
|
Char- Minar |
Hyderabad |
Quli Qutub Shah |
Makka Masjid |
Hyderabad |
Quli Qutub Shah |
|
UP
|
Agra Fort |
Agra |
Akbar |
Anand Bhawan |
Allahabad |
Motilal Nehru |
|
Deewan-E- Khas |
Agra Fort |
Shahjahan |
|
Fatehpur Sikri |
Agra |
Akbar |
|
Moti Masjid |
Agra |
Shahjahan |
|
Shish Mahal |
Agra |
Shahjahan |
|
Taj Mahal |
Agra |
Shahjahan |
|
West Bengal
|
Shantiniketan |
West Bengal |
Rabindranath Tagore |
Victoria Memorial |
Kolkata |
British Govt. |
The important monuments of India are designed and nurtured by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). To conclude, UP has the highest number of monuments (741), whereas Manipur has the lowest (1).
Important Monuments in Assam & North-East India states
Assam |
55 |
Tripura |
8 |
Mizoram |
8 |
Meghalaya |
8 |
Arunachal Pradesh |
5 |
Nagaland |
4 |
Sikkim |
3 |
Manipur |
1 |
Burmese Invasion of Assam – (Assam of History) Late Ahom Period
Burmese Invasion of Assam (Late Ahom Period) : Assam History Study Materials & Notes
Assam History APSC Exam Notes
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Burmese Invasion of Assam – Late Ahom Period History
The Burmese invasion in Assam is a significant event in Assam’s history. There were three Burmese invasions of Assam between 1817 and 1826, during which time the Kingdom of Assam came under the control of Burma from 1821 to 1825.
Main Causes of Burmese Invasion of Assam
During the 18th century, the Burmese kings started their territorial expansion on a large-scale. The Burmese king Alaungpaya invaded Manipur and Cachar,which were close to the border of Burma.
The Burmese king Bodawpaya also followed the policy of territorial expansion and steadily expanded his realm westward. The Burmese wanted to use Assam as their central military base against the Britishers. In 1784, Bodawpaya attacked and annexed the kingdom of Arakan thus extending the Burmese empire in the entire Bay of Bengal region from Margui Island to Chattagram port.
Frequent internal revolts and conspiracies weakened the power of the Ahom kingdom and its rulers. The Burmese King Bodawpaya offered to help Badan Chandra Borphukan in a battle at Ghiladhari 1817 to defeat Purnanada Burhagohain’s forces and defeated them. Purnananda died of grief on losing the battle. The Burmese army again defeated the Ahoms at Kathalbari and occupied Jorhat. This has strengthened Burmese hold on Assam.
The Burmese became a major political power of the North-east region. The Burmese came into direct contact with Assam. The boundary line of Burma came in a closer proximity to that of the British power, leading to several clashes in the later years.
Major consequences of Burmese Invasion of Assam
- Downfall of Ahom empire: The path of the downfall of six hundred years old Ahom rule was set with the Burmese invasion.
- Ahom king became a protected king of Burma: Since the Burmese came to help the Ahom king Chandrakanta Singha,remained under the tutelage of the King of Burma.
- Political upheavals: The invasion of Assam by the Burmese brought about political and administrative instability in Assam. The weakening of the monarchy led King Chandrakanta Singha to flee to British territory in Bengal. A later king Purandhar Singha also had to follow suit. Thus internal conflicts weakened the military,and the high nobles and officials failed to protect the country.
- Affected economy and social balance: The Burmese occupied Assam had adverse effects on the economy as production declined and traders were compelled to wind up their business. Many Assamese customs, ways and beliefs affected their contact with the foreigners. The Burmese invasion created a group of nobles called Duwaniyas, who started exploiting the masses. This created a lot of social upheavals forcing people to run away from their villages into the hills and valleys. All these affected Assamese society considerably.
- Led to the first Anglo-Burmese war: The occupation of Assam by the Burmese forces posed a threat to the British power. The Burmese had already conquered Arakan,Manipur,Cachar and the conquest of Assam made them a major political power that challenged British supremacy. British efforts to stop the Burmese from advancing further led to the first Anglo-Burmese War of 1824-1826.
- Treaty of Yandaboo: The Anglo-Burmese wars ended with the signing of the famous treaty of Yandaboo,whereby the Burmese were asked to vacate Assam. The treaty allowed the British to occupy Assam.
- End of Ahom independence: The occupation of Assam by the Burmese in 1819 marked the end of Ahom independence. Initially, it was occupied by the Burmese and later by the British.
The Burmese invasion of 1819 is a turning point in the history of Assam.
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Important Inscriptions of Kamarupa/Historical Assam region: Assam History Study Materials & Notes
Important Inscriptions of Kamarupa/Historical Assam region: Assam History Study Materials & Notes
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Important Inscriptions of Kamarupa region of Ancient and Medieval Assam
The Kamarupa inscriptions are a number of 5th-century to early 13th-century rock, copper plate and clay seal inscriptions associated with the rulers and their subordinates of the Kamarupa region.
- Most common language of these inscriptions is Sanskrit. But there appear systematic Prakriticisms that indicate an underlying colloquial Indo-Aryan language, called Kamarupi Prakrit.
- The earliest of these inscriptions, the Umachal and Nagajari-Khanikargaon rock inscriptions, belong to the 5th century and written in a script which was nearly identical to the eastern variety of the Gupta script.
- There is a steady evolution in the script over the centuries, and last of the scripts, for example the Kanai-boroxiboa inscription using Kamarupi, a proto-Assamese script. The script continues development as the Medieval Assamese script from the 13th to the 19th century and emerges as the modern Assamese script.
Name | Kind | Ruler | Date | Present location | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Umachal | Rock | Surendravarman | 5th century | Nilachal Hills, Guwahati |
2 | Nagajari-Khanikargaon | Rock | – | 5th century | Khanikargaon, Golaghat |
3 | Barganga | Rock | Bhutivarman | 6th century | Barganga river, Nagaon |
4 | Dubi | Copper plate | Bhaskarvarman | 7th century | Dubi village, Kamrup |
5 | Nidhanpur | Copper plate | Bhaskarvarman | 7th century | Nidhanpur village, Sylhet, Bangladesh |
6 | Nalanda | Clay seals | Bhaskarvarman | 7th century | Nalanda, site-1, monastery 1 |
7 | Sankara Narayana | Image | Sri Jivara | 8th century | Deopani, Golaghat |
8 | Hari-Hara | Image | Diglekhavarman | 8th century | Deopani, Golaghat |
9 | Tezpur | Rock | Harjaravarman | 830 CE | Tezpur |
10 | Hayunthal | Copper plate | Harjaravarman | 9th century | Hayunthal, Karbi Hills |
11 | Deopani Vishnu | Image | – | 9th century | Deopani, Golaghat |
12 | Tezpur | Copper plate | Vanamalavarmadeva | 9th century | Tezpur |
13a | Parbatiya | Copper plate | Vanamalavarmadeva | 9th century | Parbatiya village, Tezpur |
13b | Kaliabor | Copper plate | Vanamalavarmadeva | 9th century | Dighali village, Nagaon |
14 | Uttarbarbil | Copper plate | Balavarman III | 9th century | Uttarbarbil village, Karbi Hills |
15 | Ulubari | Copper plate | Balavarman III | 9th century | Ulubari village, Darrang |
16 | Nagaon | Copper plate | Balavarman III | 9th century | Sutargaon village, Nagaon |
17 | Bargaon | Copper plate | Ratnapala | 1035 | Naharhabi village, Tezpur |
18 | Suwalkuci | Copper plate | Ratnapala | 1036 | Suwalkuci village, Kamrup |
19 | Coratbari | Copper plate | Ratnapala | 11th century | Coratbari village, Nagaon |
20 | Gauhati | Copper plate | Indrapala | 1058 | Barpanara village, Kamrup |
21 | Guwakuci | Copper plate | Indrapala | 1071 | Guwakuci village, Nalbari |
22 | Gachtal | Copper plate | Gopalavarman | 1080 | Gachtal village, Nagaon |
23 | Subhankarapataka | Copper plate | Dharmapala | 12th century | (not known) |
24 | Pushpabhadra | Copper plate | Dharmapala | 12th century | Pushpabhadra river bed, North Guwahati |
25 | Khonamukh | Copper plate | Dharmapala | 12th century | Khonamukh village, Nagaon |
26 | Kamauli | Copper plate | Vaidyadeva | 1142 | Kamauli, Uttar Pradesh |
27 | Assam | Copper plate | Vallabhadeva | 1185 | Tezpur |
28 | Kanai-Boroxiboa | Rock | (not known) | 1206 | North Guwahati |
29 | Ambari | Stone | Samudrapala | 12th-13th centuries | Guwahati |
30 | Gachtal | Pillar | (not known) | 12th-13th centuries | Gachtal, Nagaon |
31 | Surya | Image | (not known) | 9th century | Kaki, Nagaon |
32 | Gauhati | Copper bell | Srikumara | 8th century | Guwahati |
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Ancient History of Assam e-Book PDF | Modern History of Assam
Mughal Invasion of Assam – (Assam of History) Ahom Period
Mughal Invasion of Assam (Ahom Period): Assam History Study Materials & Notes
Assam History APSC Exam Notes
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Conflicts & Battles between Ahom Kingdom and Mughal Empire
Ahom–Mughal conflicts started with the first Mughal attack on the Ahom kingdom in Battle of Samdhara in 1616 till the final Battle of Itakhuli in 1682. It ended with the Ahom influence extended to the Manas river which remained the western boundary of the kingdom till Assam came under British Administration in 1826.
Battle of Samdhara was the first battle fought between Mughals and the Ahoms in 1616.
Battle of Alaboi was a battle fought between the Ahom Kingdom and the Mughal Empire around 5 August 1669. The result was a Mughal victory, but Ram Singh I’s next move to open negotiations for peace. The Assamese also were tired of war, and hostilities were suspended for a time. Soon after the battle of Alaboi, Chakradhwaj Singha died in 1669. He was succeeded by his brother Udayaditya Singha.
Battle of Saraighat was a naval battle fought in 1671 between the Mughal Empire (led by the Kachwaha raja, Ram Singh I), and the Ahom Kingdom (led by Lachit Borphukan) on the Brahmaputra river at Saraighat, now in Guwahati, Assam, India. Although weaker, the Ahom Army defeated the Mughal Army by massive army, clever diplomatic negotiations to buy time, guerrilla tactics, psychological warfare, military intelligence and by exploiting the sole weakness of the Mughal forces—its navy. The Battle of Saraighat was the last battle in the last major attempt by the Mughals to extend their empire into Assam.
Battle of Itakhuli was fought in 1682 between the Ahom Kingdom and the Mughal Empire. The Ahoms pushed back Mughal control to the west of the Manas river. The main battle was fought at a garrison island on the Brahmaputra, in which the Mughal fauzdar, Mansur Khan, was defeated and the remnant of the Mughal forces pursued to the Manas river. With this win, the Ahoms recovered Sarkar Kamrup from the Mughals.
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APSC Prelim 2020 GS Paper – History Sections Question Analysis
APSC CCE Prelim 2020 General Studies (GS) Paper-1 Questions Analysis
Questions from Indian History & Assam History Sections
Go to APSC CCE Prelim Previous Years Paper Analysis
Q8. When was Assam detached from Bengal presidency and was made a separate Chief Commisionership? (Assam related Qs)
- 1870
- 1872
- 1874
- 1876
Correct Option: (C) 1874
In 1874, the Assam region was separated from the Bengal Presidency, Sylhet was added to it and its status was upgraded to a Chief Commissioner’s Province, also known as the ‘North-East Frontier‘ non-regulation province. The capital was at Shillong. Assamese, which had been replaced by Bengali as the official language in 1837, was reinstated alongside Bengali.
The new Commissionership included the four districts of Assam proper Nagaon, Darrang, Sibsagar and Lakhimpur), Khasi-Jaintia Hills, Garo Hills, Naga Hills, Goalpara, (Kamrup and Sylhet-Cachar of Bengal comprising about 54,100 sq miles. The people of Sylhet, Goalpara, Kamrup and the Hills protested the inclusion in Assam.
Topic to focus: British Annexation of Assam
British Annexation of Assam (Assam History) – AssamExam
Q15. Which freedom fighter earned the sobriquet ‘the Nightingale of India’?
- Annie Besant
- Pushpalata Das
- Sarojini Naidu
- Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit
Correct Option: (C) Sarojini Naidu
Topic to focus: Modern India – Important Personalities
Q73. During 1540 and 1587, King Naranarayana ruled over undivided Koch kingdom of Kamata and subsequently subjugated the entire Brahmaputra valley including the Ahom, Kachari, Tripura, Manipur kingdoms. What was the real name of King Naranarayana? (Assam related Qs)
- Nara Singh
- Sukladhvaj
- Malla Deb
- Parikshit
Correct Option: (C) Malladev
Malladev ascended the throne in 1540, in the same year that his father had died, and acquired the title Narayan, which was to become the dynastic title of his succeeding kings. He issued coins, and his seal was made. He appointed his step-brother Chilarai (then known as Sukladhwaj) the yuvaraj and the commander-in-chief of the military.
Topic to focus: Koch rule in Assam
Q74. The founder of Ahom kingdom, Chaolung Sukapha ruled Assam from 1228 to 1268. After his death, who succeeded him? (Assam related Qs)
- Suteupha
- Subinpha
- Sukhangphaa
- Sutupha
Correct Option: (A) Suteuphaa
Topic to focus: Ahom Kingdom & its rulers
Q75. As a great patron of Shakta Hinduism, an Ahom king built Umananda Temple on Peacock Island of Guwahati around 1694 AD. Who was he? (Assam related Qs)
- Siva Singha
- Rudra Singha
- Gadadhar Singha
- Rajeswar SIngha
Correct Option: (C) Gadadhar Singha
Umananda Temple is a Shiva temple located at the Peacock Island in the middle of river Brahmaputra. It was built by the Ahom King Gadadhar Singha (1681–1696), who was a devout Shaivaite.
Topic to focus: Historical Architecture & Temples of Assam
Q76. King Siva Singha entrusted Krishnaram Bhattacharya, a Shakta priest from Nawadwip in West Bengal, to manage the Kamakhya Temple. How do we popularly know him? (Assam related Qs)
- Kamrupiya Gosain
- Kamakhya Gosain
- Parbatiya Gosain
- Nawadwipor Gosain
Correct Option: (C) Parbatiya Gosain
Topic to focus: Ahom Kingdom & its rulers
Q77. Chao Suhungmung was the first Ahom king to adopt a Hindu title, indicating a move towards inclusive polity. Which Hindu name did he take? (Assam related Qs)
- Swarganarayana
- Durlavnarayana
- Udyaditya Singha
- Jayadhwaj Singha
Correct Option: (A) Swarganarayana
Suhungmung was the first Ahom king to adopt a Hindu title, Swarganarayana, indicating a move towards an inclusive polity; and Ahom kings came to be known as the Swargadeo which is the Assamese translation of Ahom word Chao-Pha. He is also called the Dihingia Raja, because he made Bakata on the Dihing River his capital.[2] Suhungmung was the last progenitor Ahom king (all subsequent kings were his descendants).
Topic to focus: Ahom Kingdom & its rulers
Q79. Who was the ruler of Kashmir at the time of India’s independence?
- Farooq Abdullah
- Sheikh Abdullah
- Karan Singh
- Hari Singh
Correct Option: (D) Hari Singh
Topic to focus: Rulers in Modern India
Q80. The brave Assamese lady warrior Mula Gabharu died fighting against (Assam related Qs)
- Mir Jumla
- Det Chung
- Turbak Khan
- Mirza Nathan
Correct Option: (C) Turbak Khan
Topic to focus: Islamic invasion of Assam
Q81. Who was the first Assamese to fight the British? (Assam related Qs)
- Kushal Konwar
- Piyoli Phukan
- Maniram Dewan
- Gomdhar Konwar
Correct Option: (D) Gomdhar Konwar
In 1828, Gomdhar Konwar, a prince of the Ahom royal family, his colleague Dhanjay Borgohain and their followers rose in revolt against the British occupation of Assam.
By end of 1828 the process extension of British dominion into Assam was completed. With the assumption of the political power by the officers of the East India Company, the ruling Ahom monarchy lost not only their political authority but social privileges too. The feudal structure of the society began to crumble as new measures were adopted by the colonial rulers to strip the nobility of their rights and privileges. Supporters of monarchy began the organize themselves the restore the old Ahom monarchy and oust the British.
Gomdhar was formally enthroned near Jorhat according to Ahom rites, and arms and ammunitions were collected. But before he could make much headway a counter offensive was made by the British led by Lieutenant Rutherford. The rebels lost and Gomdhar fled to the Naga Hills. But, soon he and his associates were arrested by the British. Gomdhar was found guilty of “illegally assuming the Insignia of Royalty” and was sentenced to seven years of imprisonment in banishment and was deported to an unknown location to die in ignominy.
Topic to focus: Freedom Fighters of Assam
Q88. The ‘English Education Act’ made English language the medium of instruction in India as per decision of William Bentinck, and funds were allocated to the British East India Company to spend on education and literature in India. When was the Act passed?
- 1835
- 1838
- 1840
- 1842
Correct Option: (A) 1835
The English Education Act 1835 was a legislative Act of the Council of India, gave effect to a decision in 1835 by Lord William Bentinck, then Governor-General of the British East India Company, to reallocate funds it was required by the British Parliament to spend on education and literature in India.
Topic to focus: British Rule & Important Legislations/Acts
Q89. While Rabindranath Tagore conferred the title ‘Mahatma’ upon Gandhi, who conferred the title of ‘Half-Naked Fakir’ on Gandhi?
- Gopal Krishna Gokhale
- Sir Winston Churchill
- President Roosevelt
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose
Correct Option: (B) Winston Churchill
Former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill once called Mahatma Gandhi “a seditious Middle Temple lawyer, now posing as a fakir… striding half-naked up the steps of the Viceregal Palace.” Churchill was unhappy at Gandhi’s participation at the Second Round Table Conference in London in 1931. Churchill even suggested Gandhi should be allowed to die if he goes on hunger strike.
Topic to focus: Mahatma Gandhi & India’s Freedom Struggle
Q90. Who authored the famous book, Indica?
- Alexander Cunnigham
- Fahien
- Megasthenes
- Pliny
Correct Option: (C) Megasthenes
Indica is an account of Mauryan India by the Greek writer Megasthenes. The original work is now lost, but its fragments have survived in later Greek and Latin works. The earliest of these works are those by Diodorus Siculus, Strabo (Geographica), Pliny, and Arrian (Indica).
Topic to focus: Ancient Indian Literature
Q91. Aruna Asaf Ali was one of the prominent organisers of the underground activities during the
- Civil Disobedience Movement
- Quit India Movement
- Swadeshi Movement
- Temple Entry Movement
Correct Option: (B) Quit India Movement. (Repeated Qs from 2016)
Aruna Asaf Ali was an Indian educator, political activist, and publisher. An active participant in the Indian independence movement, she is widely remembered for hoisting the Indian National flag at the Gowalia Tank maidan, Bombay during the Quit India Movement in 1942. Post-independence, she remained active in politics, becoming Delhi’s first Mayor.
APSC Prelim 2016 GS Paper – Solved Question Paper – AssamExam
Topic to focus: Freedom Fighters of India
Q92. Identify the national leader and efficient administrator who played an extraordinary role in the integration of Indian states.
- Chakravarti Rajagopalachari
- Jawaharlal Nehru
- Rajendra Prasad
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Correct Option: (D) Vallabhbhai Jhaverbhai Patel
Vallabhbhai Jhaverbhai Patel served as the first Deputy Prime Minister of India. He was an Indian barrister, and a senior leader of the Indian National Congress who played a leading role in the country’s struggle for independence and guided its integration into a united, independent nation. He was one of the conservative members of the Indian National Congress. He acted as Home Minister during the political integration of India and the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947.
Topic to focus: Political integration of India
Observations
Total Fifteen Questions from History Sections
Eight Questions were related to Assam History
Go to APSC CCE Prelim Previous Years Paper Analysis
APSC Mains 2020 History (Paper II) Question paper
APSC Mains 2020 History (Paper I) Question paper
Section – A
Section – B
APSC Mains 2020 History (Paper I) Question paper
APSC Mains 2020 History (Paper I) Question paper
Section – A
Section – B
Important Acts during British Rule in India (1773-1858) – APSC Indian History Notes
Important Acts during British Rule in India (1773-1858)
Indian History Notes for APSC, UPSC & other Exams
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British East India Company, established as a trading company in 1600, transformed into a ruling body in 1765. Only after the Battle of Buxar, the company got the Diwani of Bengal, Bihar and Orissa regions and gradually, it started interfering in Indian affairs. The period from 1765-72 saw duality in the system of government where the Company had the authority but no responsibility. The company was collecting excessive revenue and this led to oppression of peasantry. There was rampant corruption among employees of the company. The British government decided to regulate the British East India Company with a gradual increase in laws. The company rule ended in 1858 in the aftermath of the Revolt of 1857. Since then, the British Parliament took over the responsibility of administering India.
Important Acts introduced by British India Govt between 1773 and 1858
Regulating Act, 1773
- First step taken by the British government to control and regulate the affairs of East India Company. It recognized for the first time, the political and administrative functions of the company and laid the foundation of central administration in India.
- Through this act, for the first time, the British cabinet was given the right to exercise control over Indian affairs.
- This act permitted the company to retain its territorial possessions in India but sought to regulate the activities and functioning of the company.
- The Act changed the post of Governor of Bengal to “Governor-General of Bengal”. Warren Hastings was made the first Governor-General of Bengal.
- The administration in Bengal was to be carried out by the governor-general and a Governor-Executive General’s Council consisting of 4 members was established.
- Centralizing administration started from this act. It made the governors of Madras and Mumbai presidencies subordinate to the Governor-General of Bengal.
- A Supreme Court of judicature was to be established in Bengal along with appellate jurisdictions where all subjects could seek redressal. It comprised one chief justice and three other judges. In 1774, the Supreme Court was created as the Apex Court in Calcutta.
- It barred the servants of the company from engaging in private trade and accepting bribes. Court of directors of EIC were required to report on revenue, civil and military affairs in India.
Amending Act of 1781
- The act was primarily passed to rectify the defects associated with the regulating act.
- Jurisdiction of the Supreme court was restricted just to Calcutta.
- Civil servants working in their official capacity, revenue collectors, judicial officers were exempted from the jurisdiction of the court.
- Under the Regulating Act, the Governor General in Council was empowered to issue rules, ordinances and regulations but they were to be registered in the Supreme Court.
- The key provision of this Act was to demarcate the relations between the Supreme Court and the Governor-General in Council. It was the first attempt in India towards separation of the executive from the judiciary by defining the respective areas of jurisdiction.
Pitt’s India Act, 1784
- It established the dual system of control by the British government and the East India Company. The Company became a subordinate department of the State and its territories in India were termed ‘British possessions’.
- British government was given the supreme control over Company’s affairs and its administration in India
- The Court of Directors was in charge of the company’s economic activities, while the Board of Control was in charge of the company’s political concerns.
- A Board of Control was formed to exercise control over the Company’s civil, military and revenue affairs.
- The council of governor-general was reduced to three members including the commander-in-chief. In 1786, Lord Cornwallis was granted the power of both the governor-general and the commander-in-chief.
- In Madras and Bombay, Governor’s Councils were constituted.
Charter Act, 1813
- Napoleonic wars and the miseries it caused prompted the English traders to pressurize the government to end the monopoly in trade that EIC enjoyed. This demand was particularly in view of loss of trade due to the Continental System of Napoleon Bonaparte who sought to cripple England commercially.
- It edded Company’s Monopoly, the Company was deprived of its commercial monopoly and ‘the undoubted sovereignty of the Crown’ over the possessions of the East India Company was laid down.
- British merchants were allowed to trade in India under a strict licensing system under the Charter Act of 1813. But, the company was allowed to enjoy the monopoly of trade with China and trade in tea and opium.
- The Crown’s control over British colonies in India was asserted by this Act.
- A sum of Rs.1,00,000 annually was provided for the revival of literature, encouragement of learned Indian natives and promotion of scientific knowledge among the Indians. This was the first step towards acceptance of the principle of State responsibility for education.
- The company’s rule was extended to another 20 years.
- The act permitted Christian missionaries to propagate English and preach their religion.
Charter Act, 1833
- The lease of 20 years provided to the Company (under Charter Act, 1813) for the possession of territories and the revenue collection was further extended. However, the Company’s monopoly over trade with China and in tea ended.
- EIC’s commercial activities were ended, and it was converted into an administrative body.
- All restrictions on European immigration and the acquisition of property in India were lifted which paved the way for the wholesale European colonisation of India.
- The post name of Governor-General of Bengal was converted into “Governor-General of India”. He was given the power to superintend, control and direct all civil and military affairs of the Company. It deprived the governor of Bombay and Madras to make laws. All law making powers now vested with the Governor-General of India. All revenues were raised under his authority and he had complete control over the expenditure too.
- William Bentinck became the first Governor-General of India.
- A Law Commission was established under this act for the consolidation and codification of Indian Laws. Lord Macaulay was the first chairman of this commission
- Lord Macaulay was the first to be appointed as the fourth ordinary member to the Governor-General’s Council for India who was to be a legal expert in the making of laws.
Charter Act, 1853
- The Company’s patronage over the services was dissolved and the Civil services were now thrown open to a competitive examination.
- Local representation was introduced in the legislative wing which came to be known as the Indian Legislative Council. However, promulgation of a law required the assent of the governor-general who could veto any Bill of the legislative council.
- It provided for the separation of executive and legislative functions of the Governor-General’s legislative Council.
- The Act provided for the appointment of a separate governor for the Bengal Presidency.
- The Macaulay Committee on Civil Service was appointed in 1854.
Government of India Act, 1858
- This Act was a resultant of the 1857 Revolt, which had exposed the Company’s limitations in administering under a complex situation.
- It ended the Company Rule. The dual system introduced by the Pitt’s India Act came to an end and India was to be governed by and in the name of the Crown through a secretary of state and a council of 15.
- The title of Governor-general of India was replaced with the Viceroy, he was appointed directly by the British government. The first Viceroy of India was Lord Canning.
Lord Cornwallis (Governor-General, 1786-93) was the first to bring into existence and organise the civil services. He abolished the District Fauzdari Courts and established circuit courts at Calcutta, Dacca, Murshidabad and Patna. Under the Cornwallis Code:
- There was a separation of revenue and justice administration.
- European subjects were also brought under jurisdiction.
- Government officials were answerable to the civil courts for actions done in their official capacity.
- The principle of sovereignty of law was established.
William Bentinck (Governor-General, 1828-1833) abolished the four Circuit Courts and transferred their functions to the Collectors.
- He established a Sadar Diwani Adalat and a Sadar Nizamat Adalat at Allahabad for the convenience of the people of Upper Provinces.
- The English language replaced Persian as the official language of courts.
- A Civil Procedure Code (1859), an Indian Penal Code (1860) and a Criminal Procedure Code (1861) were prepared as a result of the codification of laws.
Indian National Congress Sessions before Independence (Modern History of India) – APSC Notes
Indian National Congress (INC) Sessions before Independence
Indian History Notes for APSC, UPSC & other Exams
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Allan Octavian Hume, Dadabhai Naoroji and Dinshaw Edulji Wacha. Indian National Congress was founded on 28 December 1885.