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CBSE EXAM 2026 30 Sets

Class : 12th
Sub : History

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published by a private organization just for the practice of the students.
CBSE has not released these papers and CBSE is not related to these papers
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exam.
NODIA APP Sample Paper 01 Page 1

Sample Paper 01
Class - 12th Exam - 2025 - 26
History (027)
Time : 3 Hours Max. Marks : 80
General Instructions :
1. Question paper comprises five Sections – A, B, C, D and E. There are 34 questions in the question paper.
All questions are compulsory.
2. Section A – Question 1 to 21 are MCQs of 1 mark each.
3. Section B – Question no. 22 to 27 are Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 3 marks each. Answers to
each question should not exceed 60-80 words.
4. Section C – Question no 28 to 30 are Long Answer Type Questions, carrying 8 marks each. Answer to each
question should not exceed 300-350 words.
5. Section D – Question no.31 to 33 are Source based questions with three sub questions and are of 4 marks
each.
6. Section-E – Question no. 34 is Map based, carrying 5 marks that includes the identification and location of
significant test items. Attach the map with the answer book.
7. There is no overall choice in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in a few
questions. Only one of the choices in such questssions have to be attempted.
8. In addition to this, separate instructions are given with each section and question, wherever necessary.

SECTION - A
Objective Type Questions 21 × 1 = 21

1. Which of the following describes a primary objective of the Directive Principles of State Policy in the
Indian Constitution?
(A) To protect individual freedoms and rights
(B) To establish a uniform civil code for all citizens
(D) To outline specific rights for minority communities
(D) To guide the government in promoting social welfare and equality

2. Which of the following practices is associated with the advanced urban planning seen in Harappan cities?
(A) Grid-patterned city layout and efficient drainage systems
(B) Hierarchical palace structures with fortified walls
(C) Monumental pyramids for religious purposes
(D) Military outposts on each city’s border
Page 2 Sample Paper 01 CBSE History Class 12

3. Which of the following statements best captures Ibn Battuta’s impression of India during his travels in the
14th century, as recorded in his travel accounts?
(A) Ibn Battuta described India as a land of religious uniformity, where a single dominant faith was practiced
by all people.
(B) Ibn Battuta found Indian cities to be large, prosperous, and thriving with vibrant trade activities,
reflecting the region’s importance in global commerce.
(C) Ibn Battuta portrayed India as an isolated land, cut off from the rest of the world, with very few
international contacts.
(D) Ibn Battuta noted that Indian society was entirely rural and lacked any significant urban development
or economic activity.

4. Match the revenue system introduced by the British with its feature.

Column I Column II
(a) Permanent Settlement (i) Revenue fixed with village communities
(b) Ryotwari System (ii) Direct settlement with the peasants
(c) Mahalwari System (iii) Revenue fixed permanently with zamindars
(d) Zamindari System (iv) Revenue collected by government-appointed agents
Option :
(A) (a) (i), (b) (iii), (c) (ii), (d) (iv)
(B) (a) (iii), (b) (ii), (c) (i), (d) (iv)
(C) (a) (ii), (b) (i), (c) (iv), (d) (iii)
(D) (a) (iv), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (i)

5. To which of the following saints does the Bhakti tradition of devotion to Lord Krishna primarily relate?
(A) Tulsidas
(B) Mirabai
(C) Kabir
(D) Guru Nanak

6. Assertion (A): The city of Vijayanagara was designed with elaborate fortifications, carefully laid out streets,
and efficient water management systems.
Reason (R): The Vijayanagara rulers implemented an advanced system of taxation solely to fund the
development of these projects.
Options:
(A) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(B) Both (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(C) (A) is correct, but (R) is not correct
(D) (R) is correct, but (A) is not correct
NODIA APP Sample Paper 01 Page 3

7. Identify the event shown in the image below where Gandhiji and his followers are marching towards the
sea.

(A) Non-Cooperation Movement (B) Salt March

(C) Quit India Movement (D) Civil Disobedience Movement

8. Consider the following statements about agrarian society during the Mughal period and choose the correct
option.
I. Peasants held ownership of the land they cultivated.
II. Zamindars acted as intermediaries between the state and the peasants.
III. Land revenue was a significant source of income for the Mughal Empire.
Options:
(A) I and II (B) II and III
(C) I and III (D) I, II and III

9. Identify the leader with the following information:

• She was a key figure in the 1857 Revolt and fought against the British in Jhansi.
• She was known for her bravery and died in the Battle of Gwalior.
• Her contribution has made her an enduring symbol of resistance.
Options:
(A) Begum Hazrat Mahal (B) Kunwar Singh
(C) Nana Saheb (D) Rani Lakshmi Bai

10. Which of the following statements is incorrect about Harappan civilization?

(A) Harappans had an advanced drainage system that ran along their streets.
(B) Harappans used their undeciphered script extensively on seals and pottery.
(C) Harappans worshipped gods in large temples dedicated to specific deities.
(D) Harappans engaged in trade with Mesopotamia, exchanging goods like beads and pottery.

11. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the structure and functions of administration in the Mauryan
Empire, which of the following sources would likely be the most helpful?
(A) Inscriptions on Ashokan pillars describing the principles of Dhamma
(B) A Buddhist text describing the life of Siddhartha Gautama
(C) Greek ambassador Megasthenes’ account of the Mauryan Empire
(D) Temple inscriptions detailing religious ceremonies
Page 4 Sample Paper 01 CBSE History Class 12

12. Which of the following developments helped spread Buddhist teachings outside India, significantly
influencing East and Southeast Asia?
(A) Ashoka’s support for Buddhist missionaries sent abroad
(B) Invasions by the Mauryan Empire into East Asia
(C) Bhakti poetry written in regional languages
(D) Writings of Greek travelers about Hindu temples

13. What was the impact of Ibn Battuta’s travel accounts on the understanding of Indian society during the
Delhi Sultanate? Choose the best answer.
(A) By focusing on military training techniques
(B) By recording religious practices and customs
(C) By describing economic regulations for trade
(D) By emphasizing the political structure of the sultanate

14. What significant change did the Bhakti movement introduce in the religious practices of medieval India?
Choose the best suitable option from the following.
(A) Bhakti poetry encouraged exclusive use of Sanskrit for worship.
(B) Bhakti saints promoted personal devotion to a deity beyond caste distinctions.
(C) Bhakti saints focused only on religious rituals and rejected social reform.
(D) Bhakti teachings prohibited the use of regional languages in devotional practices.

15. Compare the architectural style of Vijayanagara with that of contemporary Sultanate structures in North
India. Choose the best option from the following.
(A) Vijayanagara architecture was exclusively Hindu in style, while Sultanate structures were entirely
Islamic.
(B) Both Vijayanagara and Sultanate architecture incorporated Islamic and Hindu elements in their designs.
(C) Sultanate architecture emphasized Hindu elements, while Vijayanagara used only Dravidian styles.
(D) Vijayanagara avoided temple construction, while Sultanate architecture focused on mosque building.

16. Why were Mughal zamindars considered an essential part of the agrarian system? Choose the best suitable
option from the following.
(A) They were military generals responsible for protecting agrarian lands.
(B) They collected revenue from peasants and acted as intermediaries between the state and rural society.
(C) They controlled the entire administrative structure of the Mughal Empire.
(D) They focused primarily on trade and not on agricultural revenue.

17. Arrange the following British policies in chronological order according to their introduction in colonial
India.
I. The Permanent Settlement
II. Ryotwari Settlement
III. Mahalwari Settlement
IV. Introduction of the Indigo Commission
NODIA APP Sample Paper 01 Page 5

Options:
(A) I, II, III, IV (B) IV, I, III, II
(C) I, IV, II, III (D) II, III, IV, I

18. Which of the following was one of the causes of resentment leading to the 1857 Revolt?
(A) Restrictions on Indian soldiers to participate in European wars
(B) The Doctrine of Lapse policy affecting Indian rulers without heirs
(C) Full economic control given to zamindars over trade routes
(D) Removal of taxes for the peasantry

19. Match the term with its concept in the context of ancient Indian society.

Column I Column II
(a) Brahmacharya (i) Householder stage of life
(b) Grihastha (ii) Student stage of life
(c) Vanaprastha (iii) Forest-dwelling stage of life
(d) Sannyasa (iv) Renunciation stage

Option :
(A) (a) (ii), (b) (i), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(B) (a) (iii), (b) (ii), (c) (iv), (d) (i)
(C) (a) (i), (b) (iv), (c) (iii), (d) (ii)
(D) (a) (ii), (b) (iv), (c) (i), (d) (iii)

20. Complete the following with the correct option regarding major movements led by Gandhi.
Salt March: Dandi, Champaran Satyagraha: ________
Options:
(A) Gujarat
(B) Bihar
(C) Bengal
(D) Uttar Pradesh

21. Identify the feature of the Indian Constitution based on the following information:
• This section outlines the basic values and ideals of the Indian Republic.
• It begins with the words “We, the people of India…”
• It declares India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic.
Options:
(A) Fundamental Rights
(B) Preamble
(C) Directive Principles of State Policy
(D) Fundamental Duties
Page 6 Sample Paper 01 CBSE History Class 12

SECTION - B
Short Answer Type Questions 3 ´ 6 = 18

22. Discuss the views of the following leaders regarding the notion of Separate Electorate.
(a) GB Pant
(b) Sardar Patel
O
Partition of India had made nationalist fervently opposed to the idea of a separate electorate. Examine the
views of RV Dhulekar and BR Ambedkar.

23. Explain the Khilafat Movement. What demands were made by the proponents of the Khilafat Movement?

24. Explain the relevance of Ain-i-Akbari of Abu’l Fazl as a historical source.

25. What were the political centres of Mauryan Empire? Also enumerate the state of military in that empire.

26. Discuss about the Hazara Rama temple? What happened to different buildings after Vijayanagara kings?

27. What are the features of stupas at Sanchi and Bharhut?

O
Critically examine why Sanchi survived while Amravati did not?

SECTION - C
Long Answer Type Questions 8 × 3 = 24

28. Give a detailed account on making of Indian Constitution?

O
What were that immediate issues before the makers of the Constitution and also explain why the Constitution
is regarded as a source of aspiration of freedom fighters in India?

29. Explain how the rulers of Vijayanagara ensured water supply to the regions of their empire. What does it
show about the kings?
O
What impression about the lives of ordinary people can be collected from the travel accounts, field surveys
and architecture of Vijayanagara Empire?

30. Describe briefly the sources used for reconstructing the history of the Gupta rulers.
O
A statement by DC Sircar “There is no aspect of life, culture and activities of the Indians that is not reflected
in inscriptions.” Discuss.
NODIA APP Sample Paper 01 Page 7

SECTION - D
Source Based Questions 4 ´ 3 = 12

31. Read the following source carefully and answer the question that follow.

‘Great’ and ‘little’ traditions

The terms great and little traditions were coined by a sociologist named Robert Redfield in 20th century to
describe the cultural practices of peasant societies. He found that peasants observed rituals and customs that
emanted from dominant social categories, including priest and rulers. These he classified as part of a great
tradition. At the same time peasants also followed local practices that did not necessarily correspond with
those of great tradition. These he included within the category of little tradition. He also noticed that both
great and little traditions changed over time, through a process of interaction.
While scholars accept the significance of these categories and processes, they are uncomfortable with the
hierarchy suggested by the term great and little. The use of quotation marks for “great” and “little” is one
way of indicating this.
(i) Why Robert Redfield coined the term ‘great’ and ‘little’ tradition?
(ii) Give two example each of ‘great’ and ‘little’ tradition from your life?
(iii) Why scholar disagreed on terminology of ‘great’ and ‘little’ tradition?

32. Read the following source carefully and answer the question that follow.

Gandhiji in Young India, 17th March, 1927

Mahatma Gandhi was profoundly critical of the modern age in which machines enslaved humans and
displaced labour. He saw the charkha as a symbol of a human society that would not glorify machines and
technology. The spinning wheel, moreover, could provide the poor with supplementary income and make
them self-reliant. What I object to, is the craze for machinery as such.
The craze is for what they call laboursaving machinery. Men go on ‘saving labour’, till thousands are
without work and thrown on the open streets to die of starvation. I want to save time and labour, not for a
fraction of mankind, but for all; I want the concentration of wealth, not in the hands of few, but in the hands
of all.
Young India, 13th November, 1924
Khaddar does not seek to destroy all machinery but it does regulate its use and check its weedy growth. It
uses machinery for the service of the poorest in their own cottages. The wheel is itself an exquisite piece
of machinery.
(i) Why charkha was given importance by Gandhiji?
(ii) How would spinning wheel help poor?
(iii) How will machines impact the poor?

33. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow

Evidence of an ‘Invasion’
Much later, in 1947, REM Wheeler, the Director-General of the ASI, tried to correlate this archaeological
evidence with that of the Rigveda, the earliest known text in the subcontinent. He wrote the Rigveda
mentions pur, meaning rampart, fort or stronghold, Indra, the Aryan war-god is called Puramdara, the fort-
destroyer.
Page 8 Sample Paper 01 CBSE History Class 12

Where are – or were – these citadels? It has in the past been supposed that they were mythical ... The
recent excavation of Harappa may be thought to have changed the picture. Here, we have a highly evolved
civilisation of essentially non-Aryan type, now known to have employed massive fortifications..........What
destroyed this firmly settled civilisation? Climatic, economic or political deterioration may have weakened
it, but its ultimate extinction is more likely to have been completed by deliberate and large scale destruction.
It may be no more chance that at a late period of Mohenjodaro men, women and children, appear to have
been massacred there. On circumstantial evidence, Indra stands accused.
Question :
(i) What was the importance of citadels in Mohenjodaro?
(ii) Explain the reasons attributed for the disappearance of Harappan Civilisation.
(iii) ‘Harappan Civilisation was a single state’. Give arguments in support of the statement.

SECTION - E
Map Based Questions 1´5=5

34. A. (i) Locate and label territories under British control in 1857 in East.
(ii) Locate and label the place where Buddha was born. Or Locate and label the place of Sanchi stupa.
(iii) Urban town of Nageshwar in Harappan Civilisation.
B. On the given political outline map of India, two centres of the National Movement have been marked
as 1 and 2 Write their names.

******
NODIA APP Sample Paper 02 Page 1

Sample Paper 02
Class - 12th Exam - 2025 - 26
History (027)
Time : 3 Hours Max. Marks : 80
General Instructions :
1. Question paper comprises five Sections – A, B, C, D and E. There are 34 questions in the question paper.
All questions are compulsory.
2. Section A – Question 1 to 21 are MCQs of 1 mark each.
3. Section B – Question no. 22 to 27 are Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 3 marks each. Answers to
each question should not exceed 60-80 words.
4. Section C – Question no 28 to 30 are Long Answer Type Questions, carrying 8 marks each. Answer to each
question should not exceed 300-350 words.
5. Section D – Question no.31 to 33 are Source based questions with three sub questions and are of 4 marks
each.
6. Section-E – Question no. 34 is Map based, carrying 5 marks that includes the identification and location of
significant test items. Attach the map with the answer book.
7. There is no overall choice in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in a few
questions. Only one of the choices in such questssions have to be attempted.
8. In addition to this, separate instructions are given with each section and question, wherever necessary.

SECTION - A
Objective Type Questions 21 × 1 = 21

1. What observations did Al-Biruni make about Indian society and its caste structure during his travels in
India? Choose the best suitable option.
(A) He praised the lack of social distinctions and the absence of caste hierarchies.
(B) He observed that caste distinctions were deeply ingrained and affected daily life.
(C) He recorded that the Indian caste system was similar to social structures in Persia.
(D) He concluded that social divisions had little impact on political affairs.

2. Which of the following actions is associated with Mahatma Gandhi’s Civil Disobedience Movement?
(A) Petitioning for increased representation in the British Parliament
(B) Requesting financial aid for rural development projects
(C) Demanding the division of British India into separate states
(D) Boycotting British goods and institutions
Page 2 Sample Paper 02 CBSE History Class 12

3. Which of the following texts is considered one of the most important sources for understanding the political
philosophy and administrative policies of the Mauryan Empire?
(A) The Manusmriti is the primary text for understanding the political philosophy and administrative
policies of the Mauryan Empire.
(B) The Arthashastra, written by Kautilya, is a crucial text that provides detailed insights into the political
philosophy, statecraft, and administrative policies of the Mauryan Empire.
(C) The Ramayana primarily focuses on political philosophy and the administrative policies of the Mauryan
Empire.
(D) The Bhagavad Gita is the most important text for understanding the political philosophy of the Mauryan
Empire.

4. Match the term with its description related to Mughal agrarian society.

Column I Column II
(a) Jagirdar (i) Holder of revenue rights in villages
(b) Zamindar (ii) Land revenue assessor and collector
(c) Ryot (iii) Peasant or cultivator
(d) Amil (iv) Tax-free land grant holder
Option :
(A) (a) (i), (b) (iii), (c) (iv), (d) (ii)
(B) (a) (i), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(C) (a) (ii), (b) (i), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(D) (a) (iv), (b) (i), (c) (iii), (d) (ii)

5. Identify the historical figure depicted in the image below, associated with the 1857 Revolt.

(A) Bahadur Shah Zafar (B) Rani Lakshmibai

(C) Nana Saheb (D) Tantia Tope
NODIA APP Sample Paper 02 Page 3

6. Consider the following statements regarding the city of Vijayanagara and choose the correct option.
I. The city had a well-developed water management system.
II. The architecture of Vijayanagara lacked any Persian influence.
III. Vijayanagara was known for its grand temples and bazaars.
Options:
(A) I and II (B) II and III
(C) I and III (D) I, II and III

7. To which period did Ibn Battuta belong, when he traveled to India and wrote about the subcontinent?
(A) 13th century (B) 14th century
(C) 15th century (D) 16th century

8. Identify the revenue system with the following characteristics:

• It was introduced by the British in Bengal in 1793.
• Under this system, the zamindars were recognized as landowners who had to pay a fixed revenue to the
British government.
• Failure to pay the revenue could lead to loss of land rights.
Options:
(A) Ryotwari System (B) Mahalwari System
(C) Permanent Settlement (D) Iqta System

9. Which of the following statements is incorrect about the Indian Constitution’s Preamble?
(A) The Preamble outlines the guiding values and objectives of the Constitution.
(B) It describes India as a secular, socialist, sovereign, and democratic republic.
(C) The Preamble was added to the Constitution through the 42nd Amendment.
(D) The Preamble begins with “We, the people of India…” to emphasize popular sovereignty.

10. Imagine you are conducting an in-depth study into the economic activities of the Harappan Civilization.
Which of the following sources would provide the most detailed insight into their trade practices and
external connections?
(A) A religious text depicting Harappan deities
(B) Seals with inscriptions and animal motifs found at Harappan sites
(C) A burial site with pottery and jewelry
(D) A record of conquests in neighboring regions

11. There are two statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read the statements and choose the
appropriate option.
Assertion (A): The Bhakti and Sufi movements promoted the idea of an individual and personal connection
with God, moving away from ritualistic practices.
Reason (R): Both movements encouraged strict adherence to ritual practices and hierarchy within established
religious institutions.
Page 4 Sample Paper 02 CBSE History Class 12

Options:
(A) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(B) Both (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(C) (A) is correct, but (R) is not correct
(D) (R) is correct, but (A) is not correct

12. Which of the following factors was instrumental in consolidating the authority of the Brahmins in ancient
Indian society, particularly through religious and social texts?
(A) Establishment of guilds for various occupational groups
(B) The composition and promotion of the Dharmashastras
(C) Trade routes connecting India with the Roman Empire
(D) Formation of large-scale empires with centralized power

13. What role did the construction of Buddhist stupas play in the spread of Buddhism? Choose the most suitable
option.
(A) By promoting a uniform legal code across Asia
(B) By reinforcing the role of Buddhist monks and nuns
(C) By serving as places of worship and pilgrimage
(D) By establishing economic centers for trade

14. Compare the impact of Bhakti and Sufi movements on the social structure of medieval Indian society.
Choose the best option that describes their effect.
(A) Bhakti promoted social unity while Sufism reinforced social hierarchies.
(B) Both movements encouraged personal devotion over ritualistic worship and questioned social divisions.
(C) Sufism focused solely on urban elites, while Bhakti reached rural populations.
(D) Bhakti restricted its followers to a single deity, whereas Sufism promoted atheism.

15. Complete the following with the correct option regarding leaders associated with the 1857 Revolt.
Rani Lakshmibai: Jhansi, Bahadur Shah Zafar: ________
Options:
(A) Kanpur (B) Delhi
(C) Lucknow (D) Gwalior

16. Which of the following events related to Mughal agrarian administration is in the correct chronological
order?
I. Introduction of Zabti system
II. Development of Ain-i-Akbari
III. Appointment of Subahdars by Akbar
IV. Compilation of Akbarnama
Options:
(A) II, III, IV, I (B) I, II, IV, III
(C) I, III, IV, II (D) III, IV, I, II
NODIA APP Sample Paper 02 Page 5

17. Why are the Vijayanagara temples at Hampi considered essential for understanding the culture and
administration of the Vijayanagara Empire? Choose the best suitable option from the following.
(A) They reveal detailed military strategies used by Vijayanagara kings.
(B) They were built exclusively for the use of the royal family.
(C) They were constructed using architectural styles from the Delhi Sultanate.
(D) They reflect the empire’s wealth, devotion, and patronage of art.

18. Which one of the following was a feature of the Permanent Settlement introduced by the British in Bengal?
(A) Guaranteed reduction in taxes for small peasants
(B) Granting of hereditary land rights to zamindars for fixed revenue
(C) Establishment of free trade zones in the countryside
(D) Exemption of local rulers from paying any revenue

19. Match the historical figure with their role or contribution to ancient Indian polity.

Column I Column II
(a) Megasthenes (i) Greek ambassador in Chandragupta’s court
(b) Kautilya (ii) Author of Arthashastra
(c) Ashvaghosha (iii) Buddhist scholar
(d) Rudradaman (iv) First known Shaka king in India

Option :
(A) (a) (iii), (b) (ii), (c) (iv), (d) (i)
(B) (a) (ii), (b) (iii), (c) (i), (d) (iv)
(C) (a) (i), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(D) (a) (ii), (b) (iv), (c) (i), (d) (iii)

20. Identify the campaign with the following information:

• It was led by Mahatma Gandhi after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
• The campaign aimed at boycotting British goods, institutions, and titles.
• It marked the first mass mobilization led by Gandhi against British rule.
Options:
(A) Civil Disobedience Movement
(B) Quit India Movement
(C) Swadeshi Movement
(D) Non-Cooperation Movement

21. Which of the following ideals is reflected in the Fundamental Rights included in the Indian Constitution?
(A) Social hierarchy and privileges based on caste
(B) Equality, freedom, and justice for all citizens
(C) Exclusive economic rights for industrialists
(D) Control of judiciary by the executive branch
Page 6 Sample Paper 02 CBSE History Class 12

SECTION - B
Short Answer Type Questions 3 × 6 = 18

22. Describe the hierarchy of economic status in the Varna system.

O
Discuss any three the features of the Shrenis.

23. What was the stand of the Muslim League and the Socialists on joining the Constituent Assembly?

24. What can be known about nayakas?

25. How did Mahatma Gandhi want to celebrate 26 January 1930?

26. “India had a unique system of communication during the fourteenth century.” Justify the statement of Ibn-
e-Battuta.

27. “Archaeologists have used evidence from material remains to piece together parts of Harappan history.”
Justify the statement with reference to the principles of classification.
O
“Harappan script is considered as an enigmatic script.” Justify the statement with suitable arguments.

SECTION - C
Long Answer Type Questions 8 × 3 = 24

28. What are some of the common subsistence strategies in both the Early Harappan and the Mature Harappan
culture?
O
Discuss in detail the drainage system of the Harappan cities.

29. Why did the zamindars regularly default on the payment of rents on their estates to the British government?
O
Describe the lifestyle of the Paharias of the Rajmahal hills and how they utilized the forest resources.

30. Give a brief account of writers who visited India after 1500 CE.
O
India had a unique system of communication during the fourteenth century”. Examine the statement of Ibn
Battuta.
NODIA APP Sample Paper 02 Page 7

SECTION - D
Source Based Questions 4 × 3 = 12

31. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Both Nayanars and Alvars were revered by the Vellala peasants. Not surprisingly, rulers tried to win their
support as well. The Chola kings, for instance, often attempted to claim divine support and proclaim their
power and status by building splendid temples that were adorned with stone and metal sculpture to recreate
the visions of these popular saints who sang in the language of the people.
(i) The Nayanars and the Alvars received support from which sections of the society?
(ii) Why do you think that Chola Kings supported the Nayanars and Alvars?
(iii) Why did Chola Kings construct temples?

32. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:
When historians began reconstructing early Indian history in the nineteenth century, the emergence of
the Mauryan Empire was regarded as a major landmark. India was then under colonial rule and was part
of the British Empire. Nineteenth and early twentieth-century Indian historians found the possibility that
there was an empire in early India both challenging and exciting. Also, some of the archaeological finds
associated with the Mauryas, including stone sculpture, were considered to be examples of the spectacular
art typical of empires. Many of these historians found the message on Asokan inscriptions very different
from that of most other rulers, suggesting that Asoka was more powerful and industrious, as also more
humble than later rulers who adopted grandiose titles. So it is not surprising that nationalist leaders in the
twentieth century regarded him as an inspiring figure.
(i) India was under which rule when the historians began constructing the history of the Mauryan Empire?
(ii) What were some of the significant features of the Mauryan Empire?
(iii) What image of Asoka can be constructed through his inscriptions?

33. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah

Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah was one of the many maulvis who played an important part in the revolt of 1857.
Educated in Hyderabad, he became a preacher when young. In 1856, he was seen moving from village
to village preaching jehad (religious war) against the British and urging people to rebel. He moved in a
palanquin, with drumbeaters in front and followers at the rear. He was therefore popularly called Danka
Shah, the maulvi with the drum (danka). British officials panicked as thousands began following the maulvi
and many Muslims began seeing him as an inspired prophet. When he reached Lucknow in 1856, he was
stopped by the police from preaching in the city. Subsequently, in 1857, he was jailed in Faizabad. When
released, he was elected by the mutinous 22nd Native Infantry as their leader. He fought in the famous
Battle of Chinhat in which the British forces under Henry Lawrence were defeated. He came to be known
for his courage and power. Many people in fact believed that he was invincible, had magical powers, and
could not be killed by the British. It was this belief that partly formed the basis of his authority.
(i) Why did British officials panic about Maulavi Ahmadullah?
(ii) What was the reason for his popularity?
(iii) Why was he considered invincible?
Page 8 Sample Paper 02 CBSE History Class 12

SECTION - E
Map Based Questions 1×5=5

34. A. On the given political map of India, locate and label the following with appropriate symbols:
I. Lathal - A Mature Harappan Site
II. Bodh Gaya - A Major Buddhist Side
III. Panipat - Territory Under the Control of Mughals
O
Jhansi - A Main Centre of the Revolt of 1857
B. On the same outline map, two places have been marked as ‘A’ and ‘B’, as the centres of the National
Movement. Identify them and write their correct names on the lines drawn near them.

******
NODIA APP Sample Paper 03 Page 1

Sample Paper 03
Class - 12th Exam - 2025 - 26
History (027)
Time : 3 Hours Max. Marks : 80
General Instructions :
1. Question paper comprises five Sections – A, B, C, D and E. There are 34 questions in the question paper.
All questions are compulsory.
2. Section A – Question 1 to 21 are MCQs of 1 mark each.
3. Section B – Question no. 22 to 27 are Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 3 marks each. Answers to
each question should not exceed 60-80 words.
4. Section C – Question no 28 to 30 are Long Answer Type Questions, carrying 8 marks each. Answer to each
question should not exceed 300-350 words.
5. Section D – Question no.31 to 33 are Source based questions with three sub questions and are of 4 marks
each.
6. Section-E – Question no. 34 is Map based, carrying 5 marks that includes the identification and location of
significant test items. Attach the map with the answer book.
7. There is no overall choice in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in a few
questions. Only one of the choices in such questssions have to be attempted.
8. In addition to this, separate instructions are given with each section and question, wherever necessary.

SECTION - A
Objective Type Questions 21 × 1 = 21

1. Which of the following was a consequence of the British Permanent Settlement in Bengal?
(A) It provided land rights directly to peasants and bypassed landlords
(B) Zamindars became hereditary owners of land with a fixed revenue obligation
(C) All cultivable land was auctioned off to the highest bidder each year
(D) Peasants gained the right to negotiate taxes with the British government

2. To which text is the concept of “dharma” and duties of varna (caste) most extensively discussed in ancient
Indian society?
(A) Rigveda
(B) Manusmriti
(C) Arthashastra
(D) Ramayana
Page 2 Sample Paper 03 CBSE History Class 12

3. How did Ashoka’s inscriptions contribute to his policy of Dhamma? Select the best suitable option.
(A) By promoting military conquests across Asia
(B) By documenting the religious festivals in his empire
(C) By disseminating messages of tolerance and non-violence
(D) By emphasizing the importance of economic policies

4. Which of the following features of the Mauryan economy under Ashoka accurately reflects the state’s role
in economic activities during his reign?
(A) The Mauryan economy under Ashoka relied entirely on a barter system, with minimal state intervention
in trade.
(B) The Mauryan state imposed high taxes on peasants but did not interfere with trade or regulate economic
activities.
(C) The Mauryan economy under Ashoka featured a well-regulated trade system with state control over
weights and measures, ensuring fairness in trade.
(D) The Mauryan state under Ashoka limited its involvement in trade and focused exclusively on agricultural
development.

5. Match the saint with their contribution to Bhakti or Sufi traditions.

Column I Column II
(a) Kabir (i) Composed ‘Abhangas’
(b) Mirabai (ii) Devotional poetess of Krishna
(c) Guru Nanak (iii) Founder of Sikhism
(d) Tukaram (iv) Criticized caste and religious orthodoxy
Option :
(A) (a) (ii), (b) (iii), (c) (i), (d) (iv)
(B) (a) (iv), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (i)
(C) (a) (iii), (b) (ii), (c) (iv), (d) (i)
(D) (a) (i), (b) (iv), (c) (ii), (d) (iii)

6. Assertion (A): The spread of Buddhism in ancient India led to the establishment of numerous stupas and
viharas across the region.
Reason (R): Stupas were constructed as burial mounds to honor the Buddha and were often used to store
his relics.
Options:
(A) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(B) Both (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(C) (A) is correct, but (R) is not correct
(D) (R) is correct, but (A) is not correct
NODIA APP Sample Paper 03 Page 3

7. Identify the Mughal emperor depicted in the image below, known for his Deccan campaigns.

(A) Akbar (B) Jahangir

(C) Shah Jahan (D) Aurangzeb

8. Consider the following statements about Ibn Battuta’s account of India and choose the correct option.
I. Ibn Battuta observed the use of betel leaves by people in India.
II. He admired the strict caste system prevalent in India.
III. Ibn Battuta was surprised by the hospitality extended by the people in India.
Options:
(A) I and II (B) I and III
(C) II and III (D) I, II and III

9. Identify the structure based on the following information:

• It is a famous monument in the Vijayanagara Empire.
• Known for its lotus-shaped arches, it shows Indo-Islamic architectural influence.
• It served as a recreational and possibly ceremonial hall.
Options:
(A) Hampi Bazaar (B) Elephant Stables
(C) Vittala Temple (D) Lotus Mahal

10. Which of the following statements is incorrect about the 1857 Revolt?
(A) The Revolt started in Meerut and quickly spread to different regions of India.
(B) Many rulers joined the revolt as they opposed the Doctrine of Lapse.
(C) The Revolt led directly to India gaining independence from British rule.
(D) The Revolt is often seen as a unified expression of resentment against British policies.
Page 4 Sample Paper 03 CBSE History Class 12

11. If you are studying the influence of Mahatma Gandhi’s ideas on rural India, including his promotion of
village self-reliance and empowerment, which of the following sources would provide the most relevant
information?
(A) British government reports on Indian trade activities
(B) Gandhi’s speeches and writings on village self-reliance and rural economy
(C) An account of British educational reforms in India
(D) A list of British administrative regulations

12. Which of the following discoveries significantly contributed to our understanding of urban planning in the
Harappan Civilization, revealing advanced engineering skills?
(A) The discovery of a grid-pattern street layout in Harappan cities
(B) Identification of temples with deity-specific iconography
(C) Finding ancient irrigation systems for agriculture
(D) Records of social hierarchies among Harappan elites

13. What insights do the Dharmashastras, such as Manusmriti, provide about the social hierarchy in early
Indian society? Choose the most suitable option from the following.
(A) They promoted equality among all varnas and rejected hierarchies.
(B) They advocated for strict duties and responsibilities for each varna.
(C) They focused exclusively on economic matters and trade regulations.
(D) They supported the unification of all communities under one common law.

14. Compare the spread of Buddhism in India and its spread in Central Asia. Choose the best suitable option
from the following.
(A) Buddhism spread quickly in India but had minimal influence in Central Asia.
(B) Buddhism was practiced mainly by monks in India but by the general population in Central Asia.
(C) Buddhist texts were translated to local languages in India but not in Central Asia.
(D) In both regions, Buddhism spread through the support of local rulers and merchants.

15. Why did Al-Biruni’s observations about Indian society hold significant value for historians? Choose the
best suitable option from the following.
(A) He documented the daily lives of Indian kings and their court rituals.
(B) He studied the caste system in detail and provided a comparative analysis with Islamic society.
(C) He focused on the art and architecture of Indian temples.
(D) He discussed the impact of colonial rule on Indian society.

16. Which of the following events is in the correct chronological order regarding the Bhakti and Sufi movements
in India?
I. Arrival of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti in India
II. Rise of the Bhakti movement in Tamil Nadu
III. Compositions of Kabir’s dohas
IV. Compositions of Guru Nanak’s hymns
Options:
(A) II, I, III, IV (B) I, IV, II, III
(C) III, II, IV, I (D) IV, II, III, I
NODIA APP Sample Paper 03 Page 5

17. Which of the following was a major source of revenue for the Vijayanagara Empire?
(A) Taxes levied on temple pilgrimages
(B) Agricultural taxes collected from peasants
(C) Trade monopolies with China and Central Asia
(D) State-controlled production of textiles

18. Complete the following with the correct option regarding the titles of land revenue officials in the Mughal
Empire.
Jagirdar: Revenue assignment holder, Zamindar: ________
Options:
(A) Tax collector on trade routes (B) Village headman
(C) Local revenue collector (D) Military officer

19. Match the prominent leader with their role or position in the Constituent Assembly.

Column I Column II
(a) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (i) Chairman of the Drafting Committee
(b) Rajendra Prasad (ii) President of the Constituent Assembly
(c) Jawaharlal Nehru (iii) Proposed the Objectives Resolution
(d) H.C. Mookherjee (iv) Vice-President of the Constituent Assembly

Option :
(A) (a) (ii), (b) (i), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(B) (a) (i), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(C) (a) (iii), (b) (i), (c) (ii), (d) (iv)
(D) (a) (iv), (b) (iii), (c) (i), (d) (ii)

20. Identify the system with the following characteristics:

• Introduced by the British, this system involved revenue collection directly from individual peasants.
• It was implemented primarily in Madras and Bombay Presidencies.
• The government acted as the landowner, and peasants were seen as tenants who paid a fixed amount of
land revenue.
Options:
(A) Permanent Settlement (B) Ryotwari System
(C) Mahalwari System (D) Iqta System

21. Which of the following was a cause of the 1857 Revolt related to British policies?
(A) Complete religious freedom granted to all Indians
(B) Discontent due to the Doctrine of Lapse and interference in cultural practices
(C) Support for Indian rulers’ autonomy in their regions
(D) British non-interference in any Indian social matters
Page 6 Sample Paper 03 CBSE History Class 12

SECTION - B
Short Answer Type Questions 3 × 6 = 18

22. Write about any three sources that are used by historians to study Mauryan Empire.
O
What are the limitations of inscriptional evidence in understanding political and economic history of India?

23. Why was the Charkha chosen as the symbol of nationalism?

24. What were the salient feature of temple architecture under the Vijayanagara Empire?

25. How did archaeologists made a division between the social and economic life of the Harappan people?

26. What were the arguments in favour of greater power to the province?

27. Analyse Bernier’s account of the urban centres.

O
Explain the views of Bernier about a more complex social reality of the Mughal Empire.

SECTION - C
Long Answer Type Questions 8 × 3 = 24

28. Who were the Alvars and the Nayanars? What relations they had with the Southern states?
O
The wide range of text produced in and around Sufi Khanqahs had helped immensly in reconstruction of
history of Sufism. In this regard explain Malfuzat, Maktubat and Tazkiras as the sources used to reconstruct
the history of Sufi traditions.

29. Discuss the nature of the Revolt of 1857. What values were reflected by Indians during the Revolt of 1857?
O
Describe how the British celebrated those, who they believed saved the English and repressed the rebels
during the Revolt of 1857?

30. Describe the features of the famous Sanchi stupa in accordance to the structure and sculpture.
O
Discuss the development in sculpture and architecture associated with the rise of Vaishnavism and Shaivism.
NODIA APP Sample Paper 03 Page 7

SECTION - D
Source Based Questions 4 × 3 = 12

31. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow.
“British element is gone but they have left the mischief behind.”
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel said
It is no use saying that we ask for separate electorates, because it is good for us. We have heard it long
enough. We have heard it for years, and as a result of this agitation we are now a separate nation ... Can you
show me one free country where there are separate electorates? If so, I shall be prepared to accept it. But in
this unfortunate country if this separate electorate is going to be persisted in, even after the division of the
country, woe betide the country; it is not worth living in. Therefore, I say, it is not for my good alone, it is
for your own good that I say it, forget the past.
One day, we may be united ... The British element is gone, but they have left the mischief behind. We do
not want to perpetuate that mischief (hear, hear). When the British introduced this element they had not
expected that they have to go so soon.
They wanted it for their easy administration. That is all right. But they have left the legacy bad. Are we to
get out of it or not?
(i) Why separate electorate was considered as a mischief?
(ii) Explain Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s views on the issue of separate electorates system.
(iii) In what ways did Sardar Patel explain that “The British element is gone, but they have left the mischief
behind”?

32. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow.

Colin Mackenzie
Born in 1754, Colin Mackenzie became famous as an engineer, surveyor and cartographer. In 1815, he
was appointed the first Surveyor General of India, a post he held till his death in 1821. He embarked on
collecting local histories and surveying historic sites in order to better understand India’s past and make
governance of the colony easier. He says that “It struggled long under the miseries of bad management ...
before the South came under the benign influence of the British Government.”
By studying Vijayanagara, Mackenzie believed that the East India Company could gain “much useful
information on many of these institutions, laws and customs whose influence still prevails among the
various tribes of natives forming the general mass of the population to this day.”
(i) Who was Colin Mackenzie?
(ii) Mention what Mackenzie did to make governance of the colony easier.
(iii) According to him, what benefits would the East India Company gain after studying Vijayanagara?
Explain in brief.

33. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow.

Name of Satavahana Kings from Inscriptions

These are the names of several generations of Satavahana rulers, recovered from inscriptions. Note the
uniform title Raja. Also note the following word, which ends with the term puta, a Prakrit word meaning
‘son’. The term Gotami-puta means ‘Son of Gotami’. Names like Gotami and Vasithi are feminine forms of
Gotama and Vasistha Vedic seers after whom gotras were named.
Page 8 Sample Paper 03 CBSE History Class 12

Raja Gotami-puta Siri-Satakani

Raja Vasithi-puta (sami-) Siri-Pulumayi Raja Gotami-puta sami-Siri- Yana-Satakani Raja Madhari-puta
svami-Sakasena Raja Vasathi-puta Chatarapana-Satakani Raja Hariti-puta Vinhukada Chutukulanamda-
Satakani
Raja Gotami-puta Siri-Vijaya-Satakani
(i) What is the importance of gotra in Brahmanical practice?
(ii) How was Satavahana gotra practice different from the Brahmanical practice?
(iii) What position did women enjoy in the Satavahana society?

SECTION - E
Map Based Questions 1×5=5

34. A. Locate and label the following.

(i) Place of Quit India Resolution. Or Place of Jalianwala Bagh Massacre.
(ii) One centre of National Movement in Gujarat.
(iii) One city of importance in South India.
B. On the given political outline map of India, two places associated with Asokan Pillar inscriptions are
marked from 1 and 2. Write their names.

******
NODIA APP Sample Paper 04 Page 1

Sample Paper 04
Class - 12th Exam - 2025 - 26
History (027)
Time : 3 Hours Max. Marks : 80
General Instructions :
1. Question paper comprises five Sections – A, B, C, D and E. There are 34 questions in the question paper.
All questions are compulsory.
2. Section A – Question 1 to 21 are MCQs of 1 mark each.
3. Section B – Question no. 22 to 27 are Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 3 marks each. Answers to
each question should not exceed 60-80 words.
4. Section C – Question no 28 to 30 are Long Answer Type Questions, carrying 8 marks each. Answer to each
question should not exceed 300-350 words.
5. Section D – Question no.31 to 33 are Source based questions with three sub questions and are of 4 marks
each.
6. Section-E – Question no. 34 is Map based, carrying 5 marks that includes the identification and location of
significant test items. Attach the map with the answer book.
7. There is no overall choice in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in a few
questions. Only one of the choices in such questssions have to be attempted.
8. In addition to this, separate instructions are given with each section and question, wherever necessary.

SECTION - A
Objective Type Questions 21 × 1 = 21

1. How did the discovery of Harappan seals enhance our understanding of Harappan trade practices? Choose
the most suitable option.
(A) By revealing the military alliances with Mesopotamia
(B) By providing insights into their religious beliefs
(C) By showing evidence of standardized symbols for trade
(D) By depicting the lifestyles of Harappan artisans

2. What does Ashoka’s concept of Dhamma tell us about his approach to governance in the Mauryan Empire?
Select the option that best describes its significance.
(A) Ashoka’s Dhamma emphasized military conquest above all else.
(B) Dhamma exclusively focused on enforcing Buddhist rituals among citizens.
(C) Dhamma prioritized regional autonomy and local governance over unity.
(D) Dhamma promoted social harmony and compassion through non-violence.
Page 2 Sample Paper 04 CBSE History Class 12

3. To which of the following dynasties did King Ashoka belong?

(A) Kushan (B) Maurya
(C) Gupta (D) Shunga

4. Assertion (A): The Manusmriti is considered one of the most important texts for understanding the Hindu
social order and its norms.
Reason (R): It provides a clear depiction of the varna system and assigns specific duties associated with
each varna to maintain social order.
Options:
(A) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(B) Both (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(C) (A) is correct, but (R) is not correct
(D) (R) is correct, but (A) is not correct

5. Consider the following statements regarding Buddhism and choose the correct option.
I. The Bodhisattva is a central concept in Mahayana Buddhism.
II. Bodhisattvas seek nirvana only for personal salvation.
III. The Bodhisattva is an enlightened being who delays nirvana to help others.
Options:
(A) I and II (B) II and III
(C) I and III (D) I, II and III

6. Which of the following statements correctly explains the historical significance of the Great Bath found at
Mohenjodaro in the context of the Harappan Civilization?
(A) The Great Bath at Mohenjodaro was a ceremonial platform primarily used for royal coronations and
festivals.
(B) The Great Bath at Mohenjodaro functioned as a large storage space where grains were kept during
times of famine.
(C) The Great Bath at Mohenjodaro was used as a place for ritual bathing and social gatherings, indicating
the importance of water in religious practices.
(D) The Great Bath at Mohenjodaro served as a military training ground for soldiers to practice underwater
combat techniques.

7. Match the traveler with their account or description of Indian society.

Column I Column II
(a) Ibn Battuta (i) Described Vijayanagara Empire
(b) Al-Biruni (ii) Wrote ‘Kitab-ul-Hind’ on Indian culture
(c) Francois Bernier (iii) Described Indian caste system
(d) Domingo Paes (iv) Wrote about Delhi Sultanate society

Option :
(A) (a) (iii), (b) (ii), (c) (iv), (d) (i) (B) (a) (ii), (b) (iii), (c) (i), (d) (iv)
(C) (a) (iv), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (i) (D) (a) (ii), (b) (i), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
NODIA APP Sample Paper 04 Page 3

8. Identify the Bhakti saint with the help of the following information:
• He composed hymns in praise of Vitthala, a form of Vishnu.
• He was a saint-poet from Maharashtra.
• His teachings promoted devotion to God over rituals and caste distinctions.
Options:
(A) Namdev (B) Kabir
(C) Tulsidas (D) Mirabai

9. Identify the Vijayanagara architectural feature shown in the image below, known for its musical pillars.

(A) Lotus Mahal (B) Mahanavami Dibba

(C) Vittala Temple (D) Hazara Rama Temple

10. Which of the following best describes the role of a zamindar in the Mughal Empire?
(A) Zamindars served as local governors with military duties
(B) They were village artisans who were paid through taxes
(C) They collected land revenue from peasants on behalf of the state
(D) Zamindars were responsible for conducting religious rituals for the community

11. Which of the following statements is incorrect regarding the Ryotwari system?
(A) The British collected revenue directly from the individual ryots (peasants).
(B) The Ryotwari system was implemented primarily in the Madras and Bombay Presidencies.
(C) Revenue was fixed and did not vary according to crop yield or production levels.
(D) Under the Ryotwari system, the peasants were considered the proprietors of the land.

12. To gain insights into the personal perspectives, motivations, and experiences of Indian soldiers involved in
the 1857 Revolt, which of the following sources would be most valuable?
(A) Official British military records detailing suppression efforts
(B) Diaries or letters written by Indian soldiers during the revolt
(C) British trade records discussing Indian exports
(D) Local administrative decrees unrelated to the revolt
Page 4 Sample Paper 04 CBSE History Class 12

13. Match the following event with its associated year.

Column I Column II
(a) Champaran Movement (i) 1917
(b) Civil Disobedience Movement (ii) 1930
(c) Quit India Movement (iii) 1942
(d) Khilafat Movement (iv) 1920

Option :
(A) (a) (ii), (b) (iii), (c) (i), (d) (iv)
(B) (a) (i), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(C) (a) (iii), (b) (i), (c) (iv), (d) (ii)
(D) (a) (ii), (b) (i), (c) (iv), (d) (iii)

14. Which of the following influences had a major impact on the framing of the Indian Constitution, especially
in its commitment to democracy, secularism, and social justice?
(A) Study of Western democratic principles by Indian leaders
(B) Colonial administrative policies under British rule
(C) Contributions of Indian merchants in British trade
(D) Writings of 19th-century Indian spiritual leaders

15. Compare the status and roles of women in the family structures of ancient Indian society and ancient Greek
society. Choose the most accurate option.
(A) Women in both societies had equal rights to property ownership and inheritance.
(B) Greek women had more autonomy in social and family matters compared to Indian women.
(C) In both societies, women’s roles were largely domestic, with limited public influence.
(D) Indian women held military roles, unlike Greek women who focused on trade.

16. Why are the Buddhist stupas at Sanchi considered valuable sources for understanding early Indian art and
architecture? Choose the best suitable option from the following.
(A) They represent a combination of Buddhist teachings with Greek architectural styles.
(B) They serve as the only religious structures in ancient India.
(C) They illustrate a complex form of art that conveys Buddhist stories and symbols.
(D) They were built exclusively by the Gupta emperors.

17. Arrange the following travelers in the correct chronological order of their visits to India.
I. Al-Biruni
II. Ibn Battuta
III. Megasthenes
IV. Francois Bernier
Options:
(A) III, I, II, IV (B) II, III, I, IV
(C) I, IV, II, III (D) IV, I, III, II
NODIA APP Sample Paper 04 Page 5

18. Which one of the following was a central teaching of Kabir in the Bhakti movement?
(A) Adherence to strict religious rituals and caste boundaries
(B) Emphasis on personal devotion and unity beyond caste divisions
(C) Promotion of regional languages exclusively for religious texts
(D) Worship only through temple ceremonies

19. Complete the following with the correct option regarding famous rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Krishnadeva Raya: Tuluva Dynasty, Harihara and Bukka: ________
Options:
(A) Hoysala Dynasty (B) Sangama Dynasty
(C) Saluva Dynasty (D) Rashtrakuta Dynasty

20. Identify the official term with the following information:

• This official was responsible for assessing and collecting land revenue under the Mughals.
• They held a rank called “mansab” and were appointed based on loyalty and military strength.
• This system helped establish a strong centralized administration under Akbar.
Options:
(A) Diwan (B) Mansabdar
(C) Zamindar (D) Jagirdar

21. Which of the following policies was a significant feature of the British Permanent Settlement in Bengal?
(A) Establishment of zamindars with hereditary land rights and fixed revenue payment to the British
(B) Establishment of free trade zones in rural areas
(C) Complete elimination of taxes for peasants
(D) Rotation of land rights every five years among villagers

SECTION - B
Short Answer Type Questions 3 × 6 = 18
22. What were the causes of decline of Vijayanagara after the death of Krishnadeva raya?
O
Elaborate about the new traditions that were innovated and developed by the rulers of Vijayanagara.

23. Explain the reasons behind turning of mutinous sepoys in many places towards erstwhile rulers and
zamindars to provide leadership to the revolt.

24. “The Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras also contained rules about the ideal occupations of the four
categories of Varnas”. Critically examine the statement.

25. Why did Mauryan rulers kept a large number of officers?

26. Making of the Constitution was a result of debate, discussion and deliberation among nationalist leaders
and experts. Explain in this context of the statement the making of the Constitution.
Page 6 Sample Paper 04 CBSE History Class 12

27. What were the important contributions of women devotees during the Bhakti Period?
O
Critically examine the statement that “The Lingayats challenged the well established ideas of certain groups
of Brahmanas.”

SECTION - C
Long Answer Type Questions 8 × 3 = 24
28. Give an detailed account on the life of Paharias. What was the impact of aggressive push by Britisher for
settled agriculture on their life?
O
Examine the causes that led to Permanent Settlement in Bengal. Also identify the consequences of it.

29. An empire however strong it may be, comes to an end. In this content, explain how Vijayanagara empire
ended?
O
Many foreign travellers visited the Vijayanagara empire, but writing of Portuguese travellers gives more
illustrative account of the empire. Explain by giving specific examples.

30. Enumerate the architectural features of Harappan cities that indicate meticulous planning. What ideas can
be grasped about the town planning of the ancient civilisation?
O
Give an account of art and craft production in Harappan civilisation and also explain it’s various centre for
procuring raw materials.

SECTION - D
Source Based Questions 4 × 3 = 12

31. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow.

‘Proper’ Social Roles

Here is a story fr 11, the Adi Parvan of the Mahabharat:
Once Drona, a Brahmana who taught archery to the Kuru princes, was approached by Eklavya, a forest-
dwelling nishada (a hunting community). When Drona, who knew the dharma, refused to have him as his
pupil, Eklavya returned to the forest, prepared an image of Drona out of clay, and treating it as his teacher,
began to practise on his own. In due course, he acquired great skill in archery. One day, the Kuru princes
went hunting and their dog wandering in the woods, came upon Eklavya. When the dog smelt the dark
nishada wrapped in black deer skin, his body caked with dirt, it began to bark. Annoyed, Eklavya shot seven
arrows into its mouth. When, the dog returned to the Pandavas, they were amazed at this superb display of
archery. They tracked down Eklavya, who introduced himself as a pupil of Drona.
Drona had once told his favourite student Arjuna, that he would be unrivalled amongst his pupils. Arjuna
now reminded Drona about this.
Drona approached Eklavya, who immediately acknowledged and honoured him as his teacher. When Drona
demanded his right thumb as his fee, Eklavya unhesitatingly cut it off and offered it.
NODIA APP Sample Paper 04 Page 7

But thereafter, when he shot with his remaining fingers, he was no longer as fast as he had been before.
Thus, Drona kept his word: no one was better than Arjuna.
(i) Explain why Dronacharya refused to accept Eklavya as his pupil?
(ii) Explain how did Eklavya amaze the Pandavas with his display of archery skill?
(iii) Was Dronacharya’s act justified ? Give arguments to prove your answer.

32. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow. Moistening the Rose Garden of
Fortune In this extract Abu’l Fazl gives a vivid account of how and from whom he collected this information:
______to Abu’l Fazl son of Mubarak_______
this sublime mandate was given. “Write with the pen of sincerity the account of the glorious events and
of our dominion-conquering victories______Assuredly, I spent much labour and research in collecting the
records and narratives of his Majesty’s actions and I was long time interrogating the servants of the State
and the old members of the illustrious family. I examined both prudent, truth-speaking old men and active-
minded, right-actioned young ones and reduced their statements to writing. The Royal commands were
issued to the provinces, that those who from old service remembered, with certainty or with adminicle of
doubt, the events of the past, should copy out the notes and memoranda and transit them to the court.
(Then) a second command shone fourth from the holy presence-chamber, to with-that the materials which
had been collected should be______recited in the royal hearing, and whatever might have to be written
down afterwards, should be introduced into the noble volume as a supplement, and that such details as on
account of the minuteness of the inquiries and the minutes of affairs, (which) could not then be brought to
an end, should be inserted afterwards at my leisure.
Being relieved by this royal order-the interpreter of the Divine ordinance-from the secret anxiety of my
heart, I proceeded to reduce into writing the rough draughts (drafts) which were void of the grace of
arrangement and style.
I obtained the chronicle of events beginning at the 19th Year of the Divine Era, when the Record Office was
established by the enlightened intellect of his Majesty, and from its rich pages, I gathered the accounts of
many events. Great pains too, were taken to procure the originals or copies of most of the orders which had
been issued to the provinces from accession up to the present day_______
I also took much trouble to incorporate many of the reports which ministers and high officials had submitted,
about the affairs of the empire and the events of foreign countries.
And my labour-loving soul was satiated by the apparatus of inquiry and research. I also exerted myself
energetically to collect the rough notes and memoranda of sagacious and well-informed men. By these
means, I constructed a reservoir for irrigating and moistening the rose garden of fortune (the Akbarnama).
(i) Who authorised Abu’l Fazi to write the history of the Mughal period?
(ii) How did the author get authentic information to write this memoirs ? List any two methods.
(iii) Whom does the author call the rose garden? What does he mean by moistening and irrigating it?

33. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow.
Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah was one of the many maulvis who played an important part in the Revolt of 1857.
Educated in Hyderabad, he became a preacher when young. In 1856, he was seen moving from village
to village preaching jehad (religious war) against the British and urging people to rebel. He moved in a
palanquin, with drumbeaters in front and followers at the rear. He was therefore popularly called Danka
Shah - the maulvi with the drum (danka). British officials panicked as thousands began following the
maulvi and many Muslims began seeing him as an inspired prophet. When he reached Lucknow in 1856,
he was stopped by the police from preaching in the city.
Subsequently, in 1857, he was jailed in Faizabad. When released, he was elected by the mutinous 22nd
Native Infantry as their leader.
Page 8 Sample Paper 04 CBSE History Class 12

He fought in the famous Battle of Chinhat in which the British forces under Henry Lawrence were defeated.
He came to be known for his courage and power. Many people in fact believed that he was invincible, had
magical powers, and could not be killed by the British. It was this belief that partly formed the basis of his
authority.
(i) Who was Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah? From where he was educated?
(ii) Why was Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah was popular?
(iii) Which battle was fought by Shah and what was the consequences?

SECTION - E
Map Based Questions 1×5=5

34. A. Mark and name the following places with the help of following clues.
(i) The place where the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre occurred.
(ii) The place where Gandhiji launched a Satyagraha against the Indigo planters.
O
The place where policemen were killed by mob.
(iii) Chandragiri.
B. On the given political outline map of India, two Mahajanapadas have been marked as 1 and 2. Write
their names.

]


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NODIA APP Sample Paper 05 Page 1

Sample Paper 05
Class - 12th Exam - 2025 - 26
History (027)
Time : 3 Hours Max. Marks : 80
General Instructions :
1. Question paper comprises five Sections – A, B, C, D and E. There are 34 questions in the question paper.
All questions are compulsory.
2. Section A – Question 1 to 21 are MCQs of 1 mark each.
3. Section B – Question no. 22 to 27 are Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 3 marks each. Answers to
each question should not exceed 60-80 words.
4. Section C – Question no 28 to 30 are Long Answer Type Questions, carrying 8 marks each. Answer to each
question should not exceed 300-350 words.
5. Section D – Question no.31 to 33 are Source based questions with three sub questions and are of 4 marks
each.
6. Section-E – Question no. 34 is Map based, carrying 5 marks that includes the identification and location of
significant test items. Attach the map with the answer book.
7. There is no overall choice in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in a few
questions. Only one of the choices in such questssions have to be attempted.
8. In addition to this, separate instructions are given with each section and question, wherever necessary.

SECTION - A
Objective Type Questions 21 × 1 = 21

1. Which of the following factors played a central role in promoting trade relations between the Mauryan
Empire and Central Asia?
(A) Establishment of a maritime route to Southeast Asia
(B) Building of the Silk Route through northern India
(C) Diplomatic alliances with Greek ambassadors
(D) Creation of the Delhi Sultanate’s military trade network

2. (B) Building of the Silk Route through northern India Which of the following demands was central to
Gandhi’s Salt March in 1930?
(A) Reduction of taxes on agricultural products
(B) Abolition of the British monopoly on salt production and sales
(C) Granting of voting rights to all Indians
(D) Regulation of industrial labor laws
Page 2 Sample Paper 05 CBSE History Class 12

3. To which religion does the concept of “Ahimsa” or non-violence primarily belong, as emphasized by
Mahavira?
(A) Hinduism
(B) Buddhism
(C) Jainism
(D) Zoroastrianism

4. Assertion (A): Ibn Battuta’s travel accounts provide valuable insights into Indian society, culture, and
governance during the Delhi Sultanate period.
Reason (R): He travelled extensively in North India and documented various aspects of social, economic,
and cultural life.
Options:
(A) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(B) Both (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(C) (A) is correct, but (R) is not correct
(D) (R) is correct, but (A) is not correct

5. Consider the following statements about the Bhakti movement and choose the correct option.
I. The Bhakti movement emphasized devotion to a personal deity.
II. It disregarded the importance of rituals and caste distinctions.
III. The movement was confined only to South India.
Options:
(A) I and II
(B) I and III
(C) II and III
(D) I, II and III

6. Match the historian/traveler with their contribution to the study of Vijayanagara.

Column I Column II
(a) Colin Mackenzie (i) First comprehensive surveyor of ruins
(b) Robert Sewell (ii) Authored ‘A Forgotten Empire’
(c) Abdul Razzaq (iii) Gave an account of Vijayanagara society
(d) Fernao Nuniz (iv) Portuguese chronicler of Vijayanagara’s history|

Option :
(A) (a) (i), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(B) (a) (iii), (b) (ii), (c) (iv), (d) (i)
(C) (a) (ii), (b) (iv), (c) (iii), (d) (i)
(D) (a) (iv), (b) (iii), (c) (ii), (d) (i)
NODIA APP Sample Paper 05 Page 3

7. Identify the type of colonial document shown below, which recorded land revenue details.

(A) Zamindari contract (B) Ryotwari Settlement

(C) Mahalwari document (D) Subsidiary Alliance treaty

8. How does the Mahabharata contribute to our understanding of social structures, kinship relations, and caste
hierarchies in early Indian society?
(A) The Mahabharata gives significant insight into Indian mathematical traditions and their development
over time.
(B) The Mahabharata explores the political and legal systems of the Gupta Empire, focusing on administrative
practices.
(C) The Mahabharata provides valuable information on social norms, kinship relations, and caste-based
hierarchies, shedding light on the complexities of family and social duties.
(D) The Mahabharata solely discusses religious rituals and ceremonies, without any mention of kinship or
caste issues.

9. Identify the Mughal official with the help of the following information:
• This official was responsible for maintaining law and order in the countryside.
• He collected taxes on behalf of the emperor and acted as an intermediary between the state and peasants.
• He often held a hereditary position in local society.
Options:
(A) Mansabdar (B) Zamindar
(C) Jagirdar (D) Diwan

10. Which of the following was a major cause of the 1857 Revolt?
(A) Widespread food shortages due to British taxes
(B) British disregard for Indian religious beliefs and practices
(C) Denial of the right to establish Indian political institutions
(D) The loss of export markets due to European competition
Page 4 Sample Paper 05 CBSE History Class 12

11. Which of the following statements is incorrect about the Non-Cooperation Movement?
(A) The movement encouraged people to boycott British goods and institutions.
(B) Gandhi led the movement in response to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
(C) The movement promoted non-violent resistance and non-cooperation.
(D) The Non-Cooperation Movement aimed to support the British war efforts.

12. To understand the guiding principles, objectives, and discussions that shaped the Indian Constitution,
especially during its drafting phase, which of the following sources would be most informative?
(A) A summary of judicial cases post-independence
(B) Records of debates in the Constituent Assembly
(C) British administrative reports from colonial India
(D) Travelogues of diplomats who visited India after 1950

13. Match the Harappan site with its unique feature or discovery.

Column I Column II
(a) Dholavira (i) Water reservoir system
(b) Chanhudaro (ii) Bead-making factory
(c) Banawali (iii) Large circular platforms
(d) Rakhigarhi (iv) Evidence of terracotta bangles

Option :
(A) (a) (ii), (b) (iii), (c) (iv), (d) (i)
(B) (a) (i), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(C) (a) (iii), (b) (i), (c) (ii), (d) (iv)
(D) (a) (iv), (b) (iii), (c) (i), (d) (ii)

14. How did the Manusmriti influence the social structure in ancient Indian society? Choose the best option.
(A) By outlining military tactics and alliances
(B) By detailing duties and responsibilities based on varna
(C) By focusing on temple construction and architecture
(D) By listing all economic activities for each varna

15. How did Ibn Battuta’s observations of Indian society compare to Al-Biruni’s? Choose the best suitable
option from the following.
(A) Both travelers observed strict religious practices but little economic activity.
(B) Ibn Battuta noted the cosmopolitan nature of Indian society, while Al-Biruni focused more on caste
distinctions.
(C) Al-Biruni described a unified culture, whereas Ibn Battuta saw significant diversity.
(D) Both observed a unified social structure without much division.
NODIA APP Sample Paper 05 Page 5

16. Why did the Bhakti movement become widely popular in medieval India? Choose the best suitable option
from the following.
(A) It emphasized the importance of elaborate rituals for all believers.
(B) It focused solely on temple-based religious practices.
(C) It was supported exclusively by the royal patrons of the Delhi Sultanate.
(D) It encouraged personal devotion to God regardless of caste distinctions.

17. Arrange the following Vijayanagara rulers in the correct chronological order.
I. Bukka Raya I
II. Harihara II
III. Krishnadeva Raya
IV. Ramaraya
Options:
(A) III, II, I, IV (B) I, II, III, IV
(C) II, IV, I, III (D) IV, I, III, II

18. Which of the following roles did the zamindars play in the Mughal agrarian system?
(A) Administering legal matters across all villages
(B) Acting as intermediaries, collecting revenue from peasants
(C) Establishing schools in rural communities
(D) Controlling trade routes in coastal regions

19. Identify the event based on the following information:

• This uprising took place in 1857 and involved both Indian soldiers and civilians.
• It began as a sepoy mutiny but soon spread to different parts of North India.
• The British referred to it as the “Sepoy Mutiny,” while many Indians view it as the First War of
Independence.
Options:
(A) Revolt of 1806 (B) Revolt of 1831
(C) Revolt of 1857 (D) Revolt of 1885

20. What do the Ashokan pillars and edicts reveal about Emperor Ashoka’s efforts to spread Buddhism? Choose
the best answer.
(A) They record the military strategies used in Ashoka’s conquests.
(B) They list economic policies aimed at increasing trade.
(C) They highlight Ashoka’s intention to create a new religion.
(D) They illustrate Ashoka’s call for ethical behavior and support for Buddhism.

21. Complete the following with the correct option regarding British revenue systems in colonial India.
Ryotwari Settlement: Madras, Permanent Settlement: ________
Options:
(A) Gujarat (B) Bengal
(C) Punjab (D) Assam
Page 6 Sample Paper 05 CBSE History Class 12

SECTION - B
Short Answer Type Questions 3 × 6 = 18

22. What were the six means of acquiring wealth for women as per the Manusmriti?
O
What kind of wealth women were allowed to possess?

23. What were the sources of revenue of village panchayats during the Mughal rule in India?

24. Describe the ceremonies performed in Mahanavami Dibba.

25. Why Gandhi was regarded as the ‘people’s’ leader?

26. How the members of the Constituent Assembly were elected?

27. What was the fixed set of events that were observed during the riots in the Bombay Deccan?
O
Why did the zamindars regularly default on the payment of rents on their estates to the British government?

SECTION - C
Long Answer Type Questions 8 × 3 = 24

28. Discuss in detail the drainage system of the Harappan cities?

O
Discuss the features of the residential buildings in Mohenjodaro?

29. What were some of the ways using which the zamindars maintained control over their estates even after
defaulting on the payment of rents?
O
What were the features of the Fifth Report? Explain in detail.

30. Examine why Bernier described the Mughal towns as the ‘Camp Towns’.
O
Explain Al-Biruni’s description of caste system.
NODIA APP Sample Paper 05 Page 7

SECTION - D
Source Based Questions 4 × 3 = 12
31. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:
We often take the terms Hindu and Muslim for granted, as labels for religious communities. Yet, these terms
did not gain currency for a very long time. Historians who have studied Sanskrit texts and inscriptions dating
between the eighth and fourteenth centuries point out that the term musalman or Muslim was virtually never
used. Instead, people were occasionally identified in terms of the region from which they came. So, the
Turkish rulers were designated as Turushka, Tajika were people from Tajikistan and Parashika were people
from Persia. Sometimes, terms used for other people were applied to the new migrants. For instance, the
Turks and Afghans were referred to as Shakas and Yavanas (a term used for Greeks). A more general term
for these migrant communities was mlechchha, indicating that they did not observe the norms of caste
society and spoke languages that were not derived from Sanskrit. Such terms sometimes had a derogatory
connotation, but they rarely denoted a distinct religious community of Muslims in opposition to Hindus.
(i) The usage of the term Hindu and Muslim was not common in early times. Comment.
(ii) What identification pattern was used for the people having different descent?
(iii) Who were designated as “Mlechchha”?

32. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:
To some extent, exchanges were facilitated by the introduction of coinage. Punch-marked coins made of
silver and copper (c. sixth century BCE onwards) were amongst the earliest to be minted and used. These
have been recovered from excavations at several sites throughout the subcontinent. Numismatists have
studied these and other coins to reconstruct possible commercial networks. Attempts made to identify the
symbols on punch marked coins with specific ruling dynasties, including the Mauryas, suggest that these
were issued by kings. It is also likely that merchants, bankers and town’s people issued some of these coins.
The first coins to bear the names and images of rulers were issued by the Indo-Greeks, who established
control over the north-western part of the subcontinent c. second century BCE.
(i) What was the medium used for exchanging different commodities?
(ii) Who are Numismatists?
(iii) Who issued the coins?

33. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Nawab Wajid Ali Shah was dethroned and exiled to Calcutta on the plea that the region was being
misgoverned. The British government also wrongly assumed that Wajid Ali Shah was an unpopular ruler.
On the contrary, he was widely loved, and when he left his beloved Lucknow, there were many who
followed him all the way to Kanpur singing songs of lament. The widespread sense of grief and loss at the
Nawab’s exile was recorded by many contemporary which did not wail out the cry of agony in separation
of Jan-i-Alam.” One folk song bemoaned that “the honourable English came and took the country” (Angrez
Bahadur ain, mulklailinho).
This emotional upheaval was aggravated by immediate material losses. The removal of the Nawab led
to the dissolution of the court and its culture. Thus a whole range of people - musicians, dancers, poets,
artisans, cooks, retainers, and administrative officials and so on - lost their livelihood.
(i) Why did people bemoan and show an emotional upheaval?
(ii) What human values are revealed in the above passage?
(iii) Who lost their livelihood?
Page 8 Sample Paper 05 CBSE History Class 12

SECTION - E
Map Based Questions 1×5=5

34. A. On the given political map of India, locate and label the following with appropriate symbols:
(i) Rakhigarhi - Indus Valley Site
(ii) Kaushambi - Ashokan Pillar Inscription
(iii) Amritsar - A Main Centre of the National Movement
O
Ujjain - Capital of Avanti
B. On the same outline map, two places have been marked as ‘1’ and ‘2’, as the centres of the Revolt of
1857. Identify them and write their correct names on the lines drawn near them.

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NODIA APP Sample Paper 06 Page 1

Sample Paper 06
Class - 12th Exam - 2025 - 26
History (027)
Time : 3 Hours Max. Marks : 80
General Instructions :
1. Question paper comprises five Sections – A, B, C, D and E. There are 34 questions in the question paper.
All questions are compulsory.
2. Section A – Question 1 to 21 are MCQs of 1 mark each.
3. Section B – Question no. 22 to 27 are Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 3 marks each. Answers to
each question should not exceed 60-80 words.
4. Section C – Question no 28 to 30 are Long Answer Type Questions, carrying 8 marks each. Answer to each
question should not exceed 300-350 words.
5. Section D – Question no.31 to 33 are Source based questions with three sub questions and are of 4 marks
each.
6. Section-E – Question no. 34 is Map based, carrying 5 marks that includes the identification and location of
significant test items. Attach the map with the answer book.
7. There is no overall choice in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in a few
questions. Only one of the choices in such questssions have to be attempted.
8. In addition to this, separate instructions are given with each section and question, wherever necessary.

SECTION - A
Objective Type Questions 21 × 1 = 21

1. Which of the following was one of the primary causes of the 1857 Revolt in India against British rule?
(A) The expansion of women’s education by the British, which angered conservative Indian rulers.
(B) The introduction of new British policies that alienated Indian soldiers (sepoys) and local rulers,
especially through the use of greased cartridges in the military.
(C) The British government’s decision to promote traditional Indian customs and religious practices.
(D) The decline in Indian agricultural production due to British industrialization efforts.

2. How did the Doctrine of Lapse policy contribute to the causes of the 1857 Revolt? Choose the best answer.
(A) By creating diplomatic ties between the British and Indian rulers
(B) By enforcing Christian religious practices among Indians
(C) By promoting trade concessions with Indian merchants
(D) By allowing the British to annex states without a male heir
Page 2 Sample Paper 06 CBSE History Class 12

3. To which region does Gandhi’s first major satyagraha in India, the Champaran movement, relate?
(A) Gujarat
(B) Bihar
(C) Maharashtra
(D) Punjab

4. Assertion (A): The Indian Constitution includes Directive Principles of State Policy inspired by various
international constitutions.
Reason (R): The concept of Directive Principles in the Indian Constitution was taken directly from the
British constitution.
Options:
(A) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(B) Both (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(C) (A) is correct, but (R) is not correct
(D) (R) is correct, but (A) is not correct

5. Identify which of the following options refers to the stupa depicted in the image below, known for its
sculptural gateways.

(A) Amravati Stupa

(B) Bharhut Stupa
(C) Sanchi Stupa
(D) Nagarjunakonda Stupa

6. Match the ruler with their notable achievement or contribution to the economy.
Column I Column II
(a) Ashoka (i) Issued land grants to Brahmanas
(b) Kanishka (ii) Patron of Buddhist Council in Kashmir
(c) Samudragupta (iii) Expanded trade with Central Asia
(d) Harshavardhana (iv) Mentioned in Allahabad Pillar Inscription
NODIA APP Sample Paper 06 Page 3

Option :
(A) (a) (ii), (b) (iii), (c) (iv), (d) (i)
(B) (a) (ii), (b) (iv), (c) (iii), (d) (i)
(C) (a) (iv), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (i)
(D) (a) (i), (b) (ii), (c) (iv), (d) (iii)

7. Consider the following statements regarding the Harappan Civilization and choose the correct option.
I. The Harappan script has been fully deciphered.
II. The Harappans practiced advanced drainage systems.
III. Harappan cities were built using uniform burnt bricks.
Options:
(A) I and III (B) II and III
(C) I and II (D) I, II and III

8. Identify the text based on the following information:

• It is one of the earliest works that discusses dharma and duties within a family.
• It is a central source of Hindu law and provides details about social hierarchies.
• It describes the roles of each varna in society.
Options:
(A) Arthashastra (B) Manusmriti
(C) Rigveda (D) Ramayana

9. Which of the following best describes Al-Biruni’s approach to understanding Indian culture?
(A) Focused primarily on religious practices and neglected other aspects of society
(B) Had an intellectual curiosity that led him to learn Sanskrit and study Indian texts
(C) Studied Indian culture through accounts of other travelers without personal exploration
(D) Maintained a diplomatic role that restricted his study to political observations

10. Which of the following statements is incorrect about the Bhakti movement?
(A) The Bhakti movement encouraged worship of a personal deity without rituals.
(B) Bhakti saints strictly adhered to caste distinctions in society.
(C) Many Bhakti poets composed verses in regional languages for wider accessibility.
(D) The Bhakti movement promoted devotion and love for a personal god.

11. To gain insights into the close connections between Vijayanagara rulers and the temple institutions within
their empire, which type of source material would provide the most relevant information?
(A) Military records of conquests under Krishnadeva Raya
(B) Foreign accounts describing trade relations
(C) Inscriptions on temple walls detailing grants to religious institutions
(D) Chronicles of the lives of common people in Vijayanagara
Page 4 Sample Paper 06 CBSE History Class 12

12. How did the Dandi March, led by Mahatma Gandhi, impact the Indian independence movement? Choose
the option that best describes its influence.
(A) By creating a united military front against the British
(B) By symbolizing opposition to unjust British taxes and laws
(C) By emphasizing support for British trade policies
(D) By fostering foreign investment in India’s salt industry

13. Which of the following colonial policies had a profound impact on the agrarian society in British-controlled
India, particularly affecting land ownership patterns?
(A) Imposition of the Mahalwari Settlement across all Indian territories
(B) Introduction of the Permanent Settlement in Bengal
(C) Mandatory conversion of farmers to zamindars
(D) Formation of peasant councils for land dispute resolution

14. How did the influence of the American and French Revolutions compare in shaping the ideals in the Indian
Constitution? Choose the best suitable option.
(A) The American Revolution promoted hereditary monarchy, which was included in the Indian Constitution.
(B) Both revolutions focused solely on economic equality rather than social or political rights.
(C) The French Revolution’s ideals of liberty and equality deeply inspired the Indian Constitution.
(D) The American Revolution emphasized religious laws, which the Indian Constitution adopted.

15. Why is the discovery of the Great Bath at Mohenjo-Daro significant in understanding Harappan civilization?
Choose the best suitable option from the following.
(A) It provided evidence of advanced drainage and water management systems.
(B) It served as a military gathering point for the Harappan army.
(C) It was primarily a marketplace for trade goods.
(D) It indicated a clear religious purpose used exclusively by priests.

16. Which of the following lists the Mauryan rulers in the correct chronological order?
I. Ashoka
II. Bindusara
III. Chandragupta Maurya
IV. Dasaratha
Options:
(A) III, II, I, IV (B) II, III, I, IV
(C) I, III, IV, II (D) IV, II, III, I

17. What was one of the primary functions of the Dharmashastras in ancient Indian society?
(A) Defining the military structure of ancient armies
(B) Outlining social roles and duties based on varna
(C) Providing agricultural practices for farmers
(D) Establishing trade relations with neighboring kingdoms
NODIA APP Sample Paper 06 Page 5

18. Complete the following with the correct option regarding the key founders of religions in early India.
Gautama Buddha: Buddhism, Mahavira: ________
Options:
(A) Jainism
(B) Hinduism
(C) Sikhism
(D) Zoroastrianism

19. Match the type of tax with its description in the Mughal Empire.

Column I Column II
(a) Kharaj (i) Land revenue
(b) Jizya (ii) Tax on non-Muslims
(c) Zakat (iii) Tax for religious almsgiving
(d) Khams (iv) War booty tax
Option :
(A) (a) (i), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(B) (a) (iii), (b) (i), (c) (iv), (d) (ii)
(C) (a) (iv), (b) (iii), (c) (i), (d) (ii)
(D) (a) (ii), (b) (iii), (c) (iv), (d) (i)

20. Identify the text based on the following information:

• It was written by Al-Biruni, a Persian scholar who visited India in the 11th century.
• The text provides insights into Indian society, religion, and philosophy.
• Al-Biruni’s work is considered one of the earliest and most objective accounts of Indian culture by a
foreigner.
Options:
(A) Kitab-ul-Hind
(B) Rihla
(C) Rajatarangini
(D) Indica

21. Which of the following beliefs was central to the Bhakti movement in medieval India?
(A) Strict adherence to rituals
(B) Personal devotion and love for God, transcending caste boundaries
(C) Exclusive worship of one deity for all castes
(D) Belief in the superiority of one social class
Page 6 Sample Paper 06 CBSE History Class 12

SECTION - B
Short Answer Type Questions 3 × 6 = 18

22. How did the message about the Revolt of 1857 spread across different regions of India?
O
Briefly discuss about the participation of taluqdars of Awadh in the Revolt of 1857.

23. How did Mahatma Gandhi envision the celebration of 26 January 1930 during the Indian freedom struggle?

24. Visual images and literature as much as the writing of history have helped in keeping alive the memory of
the revolt of 1857.” Assess this statement.

25. Mention the factors that accounted for the constant expansion of agriculture during the 16th and 17th
centuries.

26. Why sixth century BCE is considered to be a major turning point in ancient history?

27. Give a brief life sketch of Al-Biruni, highlighting his background, travels, and key contributions to history,
science, and culture in medieval India.
O
Why travellers who came to India did, sometimes took social inequalities for granted as a natural state of
affairs?

SECTION - C
Long Answer Type Questions 8 × 3 = 24

28. Discuss the special sets of demands that the linguistic minorities, religious minorities and the Dalits put
forward in front of the Constituent Assembly.
O
What was the contribution of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in the formation of the Constitution of India?

29. Discuss the occupations of the four castes in ancient society.

O
What kind of treatment was received by the untouchables like the Chandalas?

30. Why do Alvars and Nayanars travel to different parts of the country? What did they use to do during their
journey?
O
Why Buddhism and Jainism were opposed by the Tamil saints?
NODIA APP Sample Paper 06 Page 7

SECTION - D
Source Based Questions 4 × 3 = 12

31. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:
There were several pre-existing traditions of thought, religious belief and practice, including the early Vedic
tradition, known from the Rigveda, compiled between c.1500 and 1000 BCE. The Rigveda consists of
hymns in praise of a variety of deities, especially Agni, Indra and Soma. Many of these hymns were chanted
when sacrifices were performed, where people prayed for cattle, sons, good health, long life, etc. At first,
sacrifices were performed collectively. Later (c. 1000 BCE-500 BCE onwards) some were performed by the
heads of households for the wellbeing of the domestic unit. More elaborate sacrifices, such as the rajasuya
and ashvamedha, were performed by chiefs and kings who depended on Brahmana priests to conduct the
ritual.
(i) What is the significance of Rigveda?
(ii) On what occasions the hymns were chanted?
(iii) What is meant by elaborate sacrifices?

32. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

A Sprawling City
This is an excerpt from Domingo Paes’s description of Vijayanagara:
The size of this city I do not write here, because it cannot all be seen from any one spot, but I climbed a
hill whence I could see a great part of it; I could not see it all because it lies between several ranges of hills.
What I saw from thence seemed to me as large as Rome, and very beautiful to the sight; there are many
groves of trees within it, in the gardens of the houses, and many conduits of water which flow into the midst
of it, and in places there are lakes; and the king has close to his palace a palm-grove and other rich fruit-
bearing trees.
(i) Which city is called a sprawling city?
(ii) How is the size of the city described here?
(iii) How is the beauty of the city described in the extract?

33. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:
When the estates of the zamindars were auctioned for failure to make revenue payments, jotedars were
often amongst the purchasers. The jotedars were the most powerful in North Bengal, although rich peasants
and village headmen were emerging as commanding figure in the countryside in other parts of Bengal as
well. In some places they were called haoladars, elsewhere they were known as gantidars or mandals. Their
rise inevitably weakened zamindari authority.
(i) Why the estates of the zamindars were often auctioned?
(ii) Whose rise weakened the authority of the zamindars?
(iii) How did the jotedars assert their control over the estates of the zamindars?
Page 8 Sample Paper 06 CBSE History Class 12

SECTION - E
Map Based Questions 1×5=5

34. A. On the given political map of India, locate and label the following with appropriate symbols:
(i) Ajanta - A Major Buddhist Site
(ii) Lucknow - A Main Centre of the Revolt of 1857
(iii) Kabul - A Territory Under the Control of Mughals
O
Puhar - An Important Town during Chola Period
B. On the same outline map, two places have been marked as ‘1’ and ‘2’, as the Centres of the National
Movements. Identify them and write their correct names on the lines drawn near them.

******
NODIA APP Sample Paper 07 Page 1

Sample Paper 07
Class - 12th Exam - 2025 - 26
History (027)
Time : 3 Hours Max. Marks : 80
General Instructions :
1. Question paper comprises five Sections – A, B, C, D and E. There are 34 questions in the question paper.
All questions are compulsory.
2. Section A – Question 1 to 21 are MCQs of 1 mark each.
3. Section B – Question no. 22 to 27 are Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 3 marks each. Answers to
each question should not exceed 60-80 words.
4. Section C – Question no 28 to 30 are Long Answer Type Questions, carrying 8 marks each. Answer to each
question should not exceed 300-350 words.
5. Section D – Question no.31 to 33 are Source based questions with three sub questions and are of 4 marks
each.
6. Section-E – Question no. 34 is Map based, carrying 5 marks that includes the identification and location of
significant test items. Attach the map with the answer book.
7. There is no overall choice in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in a few
questions. Only one of the choices in such questssions have to be attempted.
8. In addition to this, separate instructions are given with each section and question, wherever necessary.

SECTION - A
Objective Typsse Questions 21 × 1 = 21

1. How did the British policy of Doctrine of Lapse influence Indian princely states and contribute to the causes
of the 1857 Revolt? Choose the best answer.
(A) The policy offered military aid to princely states without heirs.
(B) The policy enabled British annexation of states lacking a legitimate male heir.
(C) The policy encouraged princely states to form alliances against the British.
(D) The policy allowed the British to sell Indian territories to foreign investors.

2. Which of the following measures helped maintain harmony between the Mughal state and the zamindars,
ensuring a stable agrarian revenue system?
(A) The policy of hereditary revenue grants for zamindars
(B) Permanent land grants given to local peasants
(C) Regular re-assessment of agricultural output by the state
(D) Complete state control over local village councils
Page 2 Sample Paper 07 CBSE History Class 12

3. What was the primary objective of the British Permanent Settlement of 1793 in Bengal in the context of
agrarian policies?
(A) The Permanent Settlement aimed to abolish the zamindari system and give direct ownership of land to
the peasants.
(B) The primary objective of the Permanent Settlement was to ensure a stable and fixed revenue collection
from zamindars, regardless of fluctuations in agricultural production.
(C) The Permanent Settlement focused on increasing the wages of rural artisans and improving the standard
of living for village workers.
(D) The British government aimed to implement a system of land reforms that would promote industrialization
in rural areas.

4. Identify the scene depicted from the Mahabharata that represents the concept of ‘Dharma’ in ancient Indian
society.

(A) The Battle of Kurukshetra

(B) Arjuna’s Dilemma
(C) Draupadi’s Disrobing
(D) Bhishma’s Vow

5. To which city did Bahadur Shah Zafar flee after the fall of Delhi during the 1857 Revolt?
(A) Agra
(B) Kanpur
(C) Lucknow
(D) Humayun’s Tomb
NODIA APP Sample Paper 07 Page 3

6. Match the archaeologist with their discovery/work related to the Harappan Civilization.

Column I Column II
(a) R.D. Banerji (i) Excavated Dholavira
(b) John Marshall (ii) Discovered Harappa seals
(c) Daya Ram Sahni (iii) Excavated Mohenjodaro
(d) R.S. Bisht (iv) Excavated Kalibangan

Option :
(A) (a) (iii), (b) (ii), (c) (iv), (d) (i)
(B) (a) (iii), (b) (iv), (c) (ii), (d) (i)
(C) (a) (ii), (b) (iii), (c) (i), (d) (iv)
(D) (a) (iv), (b) (ii), (c) (i), (d) (iii)

7. Consider the following statements regarding the Indian Constitution and choose the correct option.
I. The Constitution of India includes provisions for Fundamental Rights.
II. The Constitution was influenced by the constitutions of several other countries.
III. The Constitution of India was adopted in 1950.
Options:
(A) I and II (B) II and III
(C) I and III (D) I, II and III

8. Identify the ruler with the help of the following information:

• He was the founder of the Mauryan Empire.
• He unified most of the Indian subcontinent.
• He established a centralized administration and was advised by Kautilya.
Options:
(A) Chandragupta Maurya (B) Ashoka
(C) Bimbisara (D) Bindusara

9. Which of the following teachings is attributed to Gautama Buddha?

(A) The importance of prayer to reach enlightenment
(B) Belief in a permanent soul that exists after death
(C) The practice of the Middle Path to attain nirvana
(D) Strict adherence to rituals as the means to salvation

10. How did the British Permanent Settlement in Bengal alter agrarian relations? Choose the most suitable
option.
(A) By allowing peasants to become hereditary landowners
(B) By giving zamindars rights to collect fixed revenue
(C) By creating new religious centers for social unity
(D) By establishing military alliances with zamindars
Page 4 Sample Paper 07 CBSE History Class 12

11. Which of the following statements is incorrect about Ibn Battuta’s account of India?
(A) Ibn Battuta observed that Indian society was organized around a rigid caste system.
(B) He was surprised by the practice of voluntary widow self-immolation, or “sati.”
(C) Ibn Battuta noted the general safety on Indian roads and highways for travelers.
(D) Ibn Battuta mainly described the natural landscapes of India in his writings.

12. If you are researching the devotional and poetic expressions of the Bhakti movement, which became
widespread in medieval India, which of the following sources would be most relevant for understanding
these religious sentiments?
(A) A military report from the Vijayanagara Empire
(B) Hymns of Mirabai, a Bhakti saint devoted to Lord Krishna
(C) A legal code outlining duties of castes in society
(D) An agricultural record from a regional court

13. Match the feature of Vijayanagara with its description.

Column I Column II
(a) Hampi (i) UNESCO World Heritage Site
(b) Vittala Temple (ii) Famous for musical pillars
(c) Tungabhadra River (iii) River flowing by the city
(d) Hemakuta Hill (iv) Cluster of Jain temples

Option :
(A) (a) (ii), (b) (i), (c) (iv), (d) (iii) (B) (a) (i), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(C) (a) (iii), (b) (iv), (c) (i), (d) (ii) (D) (a) (i), (b) (iii), (c) (ii), (d) (iv)

14. Which of the following events is in the correct chronological order regarding the archaeological discoveries
related to the Harappan Civilization?
I. Discovery of the Great Bath
II. Excavation at Harappa by Daya Ram Sahni
III. Discovery of seals with script
IV. Excavation at Mohenjo-daro by Rakhaldas Banerji
Options:
(A) II, IV, III, I (B) I, II, III, IV
(C) III, I, II, IV (D) II, I, IV, III

15. How did the impact of the Non-Cooperation Movement compare to that of the Civil Disobedience Movement
led by Gandhi? Choose the most suitable option.
(A) Both movements exclusively targeted British military officers.
(B) The Non-Cooperation Movement focused on education, while Civil Disobedience Movement directly
challenged British laws.
(C) The Civil Disobedience Movement encouraged cooperation with the British government.
(D) The Non-Cooperation Movement was limited to urban areas, while Civil Disobedience was only rural.
NODIA APP Sample Paper 07 Page 5

16. Why was the inclusion of Fundamental Rights in the Indian Constitution considered essential by the
framers? Choose the best suitable option from the following.
(A) To ensure that all citizens followed the same religious practices
(B) To restrict citizens’ freedom in public life
(C) To promote British colonial laws for all Indian citizens
(D) To establish political rights that protect individuals from state exploitation

17. Which of the following was a significant economic policy implemented under the Mauryan Empire?
(A) Fixed revenue collection based on grain output only
(B) Introduction of a standardized coinage system
(C) Allocation of lands exclusively to the nobility
(D) Free trade policies across all provinces

18. Assertion (A): Mahatma Gandhi’s Dandi March in 1930 was a crucial event in the Civil Disobedience
Movement, marking widespread defiance against British rule.
Reason (R): The Dandi March was intended to protest the unfair salt tax imposed by the British on Indian
citizens.
Options:
(A) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(B) Both (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(C) (A) is correct, but (R) is not correct
(D) (R) is correct, but (A) is not correct

19. Complete the following with the correct option regarding significant epics that provide insights into early
Indian society.
Mahabharata: Kauravas and Pandavas, Ramayana: ________
Options:
(A) Ravana and Pandavas (B) Rama and Ravana
(C) Krishna and Kansa (D) Arjuna and Duryodhana

20. Identify the Buddhist concept with the help of the following information:
• This term refers to a compassionate being who delays their own enlightenment to help others.
• It is a central concept in Mahayana Buddhism.
• The idea represents selfless compassion and the desire to alleviate the suffering of others.
Options:
(A) Nirvana (B) Bodhisattva
(C) Arhat (D) Sangha

21. Which of the following aspects of Indian society was emphasized in the writings of Al-Biruni?
(A) Economic isolation from the rest of the world
(B) The political unity across the entire subcontinent
(C) The importance of temple architecture
(D) The caste system and social hierarchies
Page 6 Sample Paper 07 CBSE History Class 12

SECTION - B
Short Answer Type Questions 3 × 6 = 18

22. Discuss briefly about the five books of Ain-i Akbari?

O
Comment on the translation of Ain-i Akbari.

23. ‘Harappan script is enigmatic according to archaeolo fists and historians? Justify.

24. Analyse with illustrations, why Bhakti and Sufi thinkers adopted a variety of languages to express their
opinions.

25. Explain why patriliny may have been particularly important among elite families.

26. How did Gandhiji’s ‘Quit India Movement’ transform the nature of the National Movement?

27. Examine any three changes brought into the colonial cities after the Revolt of 1857.
O
What was the impact of the Revolt of 1857 on the nationalist imagery?

SECTION - C
Long Answer Type Questions 8 × 3 = 24

28. Analyse the role played by Zamindars during Mughal India.

O
Write in detail about the condition of zamindars during Mughal period.

29. The Revolt of 1857 was the effect of the rumours. Explain the causes of the revolt and the shaking of the
values by the revolt.
O
Describe how the Revolt of 1857 played a significant role in the development of nationalist movement in
India?

30. What are the aspect of Harappan economy that have been reconstructed from archaeological evidences?
O
What are the problems in archaeological interpretation and in reconstruction of the past especially of
religious practices and beliefs? Explain in context of Harappa.
NODIA APP Sample Paper 07 Page 7

SECTION - D
Source Based Questions 4 × 3 = 12

31. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow.

Verses from the Upanishads

Here are two verses from the Chhandogya Upanishad, a text composed in Sanskrit C 6th century BCE :
The nature of the self.
This self of mine within the heart is smaller than paddy or barley or mustard or millet or the kernel of a seed
of millet. This self of mine within the heart is greater than the Earth, greater than the intermediate space,
greater than heaven, greater than these worlds.
The true sacrifice
This one (the wind) that blows, this is surely a sacrifice While moving, it sanctifies all this; therefore it is
indeed a sacrifice.
(i) What is the source of this verse?
(ii) Explain the central idea given in Upanishad.
(iii) Why the inner self is compared to a seed and then to the space?

32. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow.

A Demon
This is an excerpt from a poem by Karaikkal Ammaiyar in which she described herself The Female Pey
(demoness) with... bulging veins, protruding eyes, white teeth and shrunken stomach, red haired and jutting
teeth lengthy shins extending till the ankles, shouts and wails while wandering in the forest. This is the
forest of Alankatu, which is the home of our father (Shiva) who dances... with his matted hair thrown in all
eight directions, and with cool limbs.
(i) Who was Karaikkal Ammaiyar?
(ii) How did the author describes herself in the poem?
(iii) What did author try to convey through the poem?

33. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow.

Draupadi’s Marriage
Drupada, the king of Panchala, organised a competition where the challenge was to string a bow and hit
a target; the winner would be chosen to marry his daughter Draupadi. Arjuna was victorious and was
garlanded by Draupadi. The Pandavas returned with her to their mother Kunti, who, even before she saw
them, asked them to share whatever they had got. She realised her mistake when she saw Draupadi, but her
command could not be violated. After much deliberation, Yudhisthira decided that Draupadi would be their
common wife. When Drupada was told about this, he protested. However, the Seer Vyasa arrived and told
him that the Pandavas were in reality incarnations of Indra, whose wife had been reborn as Draupadi and
they were thus destined for each other.
Vyasa added that in another instance a young woman had prayed to Shiva for a husband, and in her
enthusiasm, had prayed five times instead of once. This woman was now reborn as Draupadi and Shiva had
fulfilled her prayers. Convinced by these stories, Drupada consented to the marriage.
Page 8 Sample Paper 07 CBSE History Class 12

(i) ‘Mother was considered as the highest guru by the Pandavas.’ Justify the statement from the above
source.
(ii) What was the reason due to which Kunti did not save Draupadi from the dire situation?
(iii) How did Seer Vyasa convinced Drupada to marry five men?

SECTION - E
Map Based Questions 1×5=5

34. A. (i) Locate and label an important centre of the Indian National Movement outside India.
(ii) Locate and label Kanpur as an centres of 1857 Revolt.
(iii) Show the Harappan site of Lothal Or Avanti
B. On the given political outline map of India, identify the sites marked as 1 and 2.

******
NODIA APP Sample Paper 08 Page 1

Sample Paper 08
Class - 12th Exam - 2025 - 26
History (027)
Time : 3 Hours Max. Marks : 80
General Instructions :
1. Question paper comprises five Sections – A, B, C, D and E. There are 34 questions in the question paper.
All questions are compulsory.
2. Section A – Question 1 to 21 are MCQs of 1 mark each.
3. Section B – Question no. 22 to 27 are Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 3 marks each. Answers to
each question should not exceed 60-80 words.
4. Section C – Question no 28 to 30 are Long Answer Type Questions, carrying 8 marks each. Answer to each
question should not exceed 300-350 words.
5. Section D – Question no.31 to 33 are Source based questions with three sub questions and are of 4 marks
each.
6. Section-E – Question no. 34 is Map based, carrying 5 marks that includes the identification and location of
significant test items. Attach the map with the answer book.
7. There is no overall choice in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in a few
questions. Only one of the choices in such questssions have to be attempted.
8. In addition to this, separate instructions are given with each section and question, wherever necessary.

SECTION - A
Objective Type Questions 21 × 1 = 21

1. What insights do the large temple complexes in Vijayanagara provide about the social and economic
priorities of the Vijayanagara Empire? Choose the best suitable option.
(A) They indicate that temples served primarily as military fortifications.
(B) They highlight the role of temples as centers of economic activity and devotion.
(C) They reveal that temple complexes were exclusively for the royal family’s use.
(D) They show that temples were insignificant in the empire’s economic system.

2. To which dynasty did the prominent Vijayanagara ruler Krishnadeva Raya belong?
(A) Saluva (B) Sangama
(C) Tuluva (D) Aravidu

3. Which of the following statements is incorrect about Ashoka’s Dhamma?

(A) Ashoka’s Dhamma focused on peace, tolerance, and non-violence.
(B) Ashoka’s Dhamma required forced conversions to Buddhism throughout his empire.
(C) Ashoka appointed Dhamma Mahamatras to promote social harmony.
(D) Ashoka’s Dhamma did not conflict with the religious practices of his subjects.
Page 2 Sample Paper 08 CBSE History Class 12

4. Match the British official with their role during the 1857 Revolt.

Column I Column II
(a) Lord Canning (i) British Resident in Awadh
(b) Sir Hugh Rose (ii) Commander of British forces in Jhansi
(c) John Lawrence (iii) Viceroy during the revolt
(d) Sir Henry Lawrence (iv) Governor-General of Punjab

Option :
(A) (a) (iii), (b) (ii), (c) (iv), (d) (i)
(B) (a) (iv), (b) (iii), (c) (ii), (d) (i)
(C) (a) (ii), (b) (iv), (c) (i), (d) (iii)
(D) (a) (iii), (b) (i), (c) (iv), (d) (ii)

5. Which of the following statements accurately describes one of the key features of the Bhakti movement in
medieval India?
(A) The Bhakti movement rejected the idea of devotion and focused solely on elaborate rituals and religious
ceremonies.
(B) The Bhakti movement emphasized a personal and direct relationship between the devotee and God,
often cutting across caste and social barriers.
(C) The Bhakti movement was confined only to the Brahminical class and did not reach the lower castes or
marginalized communities.
(D) The Bhakti movement discouraged the composition of devotional poetry and songs, focusing more on
philosophical debates.

6. Identify the person depicted in the image below, who was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the
Indian Constitution.

(A) Jawaharlal Nehru

(B) Sardar Patel
(C) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
(D) Rajendra Prasad
NODIA APP Sample Paper 08 Page 3

7. Consider the following statements regarding the Ryotwari system introduced by the British and choose the
correct option.
I. The Ryotwari system involved direct settlement with the ryots (peasants).
II. Land revenue was collected by zamindars from the ryots.
III. The ryots were responsible for paying the revenue directly to the British government.
Options:
(A) I and II
(B) I and III
(C) II and III
(D) I, II and III

8. Which of the following was a key feature of Harappan urban planning?

(A) Construction of large forts for city protection
(B) Advanced drainage systems and grid-patterned streets
(C) Use of mud-brick houses without standardized measurements
(D) Building temples in the center of each city

9. Identify the movement based on the following information:

• It was launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1942 during World War II.
• The movement’s slogan was “Do or Die,” urging the British to leave India.
• It marked a decisive phase in India’s struggle for independence.
Options:
(A) Non-Cooperation Movement
(B) Quit India Movement
(C) Civil Disobedience Movement
(D) Khilafat Movement

10. If you are researching the role of women within family structures and kinship norms in early Indian society,
which of the following sources would provide the clearest insight into these aspects?
(A) A chronicle on military conquests of a ruler
(B) Manusmriti, a text outlining social norms and duties
(C) A historical account of trade activities
(D) A scientific text on Ayurvedic medicine

11. Assertion (A): The Mughal state heavily depended on the revenue collected from agriculture, which formed
the primary source of income for the empire.
Reason (R): The Mughals introduced the Mansabdari system specifically to encourage loyalty among
military officials and nobility.
Options:
(A) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(B) Both (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(C) (A) is correct, but (R) is not correct
(D) (R) is correct, but (A) is not correct
Page 4 Sample Paper 08 CBSE History Class 12

12. Which of the following developments most influenced Ibn Battuta’s observations of India’s social and
economic structures during his travels in the 14th century?
(A) The caste system and the role of local markets
(B) The military conquests by Indian emperors in Central Asia
(C) The influence of Buddhist practices on daily life
(D) Maritime interactions with Southeast Asia

13. How did the poetry of Bhakti saints contribute to the religious landscape in medieval India? Choose the
most appropriate option.
(A) By codifying caste regulations within temples
(B) By promoting devotion beyond caste distinctions
(C) By creating a new hierarchy of deities
(D) By establishing economic centers in temple towns

14. Compare the revenue collection system under the Mughal Empire with that of the British colonial rule in
India. Choose the most suitable option.
(A) Both systems allowed local zamindars full control over the revenue collected.
(B) The Mughal system allowed for revenue re-assessment, while the British imposed fixed revenue
demands.
(C) The British system was entirely based on cash, whereas the Mughals used only barter.
(D) Revenue collection was strictly managed by the emperor in both systems.

15. Why did the British introduce the Permanent Settlement in Bengal, and what was its primary goal? Choose
the best suitable option from the following.
(A) To create a hereditary land ownership system among peasants
(B) To establish a tax-free system for all agricultural lands
(C) To create agricultural laws that discouraged trade
(D) To stabilize revenue collection by granting zamindars rights over land revenue

16. Arrange the following events related to the 1857 Revolt in the correct chronological order.
I. Annexation of Awadh
II. Introduction of the Enfield Rifle
III. Formation of the Doctrine of Lapse
IV. Siege of Lucknow
Options:
(A) III, I, II, IV
(B) II, IV, III, I
(C) IV, III, I, II
(D) I, II, III, IV
NODIA APP Sample Paper 08 Page 5

17. Which one of the following demands was central to the Dandi March led by Gandhi?
(A) Higher wages for Indian factory workers
(B) Right to produce and collect salt independently
(C) Promotion of indigenous goods in global markets
(D) Increase in Indian representation in British Parliament

18. Complete the following with the correct option regarding important figures in the making of the Indian
Constitution.
B.R. Ambedkar: Drafting Committee Chairman, Rajendra Prasad: ________
Options:
(A) President of the Constituent Assembly
(B) Head of the Executive Committee
(C) Finance Minister
(D) Governor of Bengal

19. Match the Buddhist architectural structure with its purpose.

Column I Column II
(a) Stupa (i) Place for monastic assemblies
(b) Vihara (ii) Monk’s living quarters
(c) Chaitya (iii) Prayer hall with a stupa inside
(d) Torana (iv) Gateway structure

Option :
(A) (a) (ii), (b) (iii), (c) (iv), (d) (i)
(B) (a) (i), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(C) (a) (iii), (b) (i), (c) (ii), (d) (iv)
(D) (a) (iv), (b) (iii), (c) (i), (d) (ii)

20. Identify the Harappan artifact based on the following information:

• It was often made of soapstone and depicted animals and symbols.
• These artifacts were likely used for trade and identification.
• Many of these artifacts bear inscriptions that remain undeciphered.
Options:
(A) Beads (B) Terracotta figurines
(C) Seals (D) Pottery

21. Which of the following concepts was central to Ashoka’s policy of Dhamma?
(A) Conquest and expansion through military campaigns
(B) Tolerance, non-violence, and welfare for all subjects
(C) Building a powerful alliance with Greek rulers
(D) Exclusive worship of Hindu gods in all regions
Page 6 Sample Paper 08 CBSE History Class 12

SECTION - B
Short Answer Type Questions 3 × 6 = 18

22. Discuss the features of the communities organised by the Sufis.

O
How do Qalandars and Madaris interpret the Sufi ideals?

23. What was the stand of the Muslim League and the Socialists on joining the Constituent Assembly?

24. How was the Citadel separated from the Lower Town?

25. What did Bernier write about the Sati system?

26. How did the policing powers and the justice powers of the zamindars end?

27. What are inscriptions? Describe some of its features in detail.

O
Describe in detail the coinage system used by the Kushanas in their empire.

SECTION - C
Long Answer Type Questions 8 × 3 = 24

28. “The revolt of 1857 marked first nationalist challenge to the English in India.” Explain by giving examples
to the value imbibed and practiced by the rebels to set the beginning for it.
O
Examine the nature of Indian leadership that emerged against British in the revolt of 1857.

29. What are some of the different sources used by the philosophers for the reconstruction of the past religious
and cultural beliefs?
O
How did the stupa at Sanchi manage to get preserved despite having hundreds of years of history?

30. Discuss the importance of Virupaksha temple.

O
Explain the reasons for the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire.
NODIA APP Sample Paper 08 Page 7

SECTION - D
Source Based Questions 4 × 3 = 12

31. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

Why the Salt Satyagraha?

Why was salt the symbol of protest? This is what Mahatma Gandhi wrote: The volume of information
being gained daily shows how wickedly the salt tax has been designed. In order to prevent the use of salt
that has not paid the tax which is at times even fourteen times its value, the Government destroys the salt it
cannot sell profitably. Thus, it taxes the nation’s vital necessity; it prevents the public from manufacturing
it and destroys what nature manufactures without effort. No adjective is strong enough for characterizing
this wicked dog-in-the-manger policy. From various sources I hear tales of such wanton destruction of the
nation’s property in all parts of India. Mounds if not tons of salt are said to be destroyed on the Konkan
coast. The same tale comes from Dandi. Wherever, there is likelihood of natural salt being taken away
by the people living in the neighborhood of such areas for their personal use, salt officer is posted for the
sole purpose of carrying on destruction. Thus valuable national property is destroyed at national expense
and salt taken out of the mouths of the people. The salt monopoly is thus a fourfold curse. It deprives the
people of a valuable easy village industry, involves wanton destruction of property that nature produces
in abundance, the destruction itself means more national expenditure, and fourthly to crown this folly, an
unheard-of tax of more than 1,000 per cent is exacted from a starving people. This tax has remained so long
because of the apathy of the general public. Now, that it is sufficiently roused, the tax has to go. How soon
it will be abolished depends upon the strength of the people. The Collected Works of Mahatma Gandhi
(CWMG), Vol. 49.
(i) Why was salt monopoly introduced by the British considered as a curse by the Indians?
(ii) How did Gandhiji illustrate his tactical wisdom with regard to salt monopoly?
(iii) Explain the significance of Gandhiji’s challenge of salt protest.

32. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

Cash or Kind
The Ain on land revenue collection. Let him (the amil-guzar) not make it a practice of taking only in cash
but also in kind. The latter is effected in several ways. First, kankut: in the Hindi language Kan signifies
grain, and kut, estimate. If any doubts arise, the crops should be cut and estimated in three lots, the good,
the middling and the inferior and the hesitation removed. Often, too the land taken by appraisement, gives a
sufficientl accurate return. Secondly, batai, also called bhaoli, the crops are reaped and stacked and divided
by agreement in the presence of the parties. But in the case several intelligent inspectors are required;
otherwise, the evil-minded and false are given to deception. Thirdly, khet-batai when they divided the fields
after they are sown. Fourthly, lang batai; after cutting the grain, they form it in heaps and divide it among
themselves, and each takes his share home and turns it to profit.
(i) Explain the term Kankut.
(ii) Explain the system of batai or bhaoli system of land revenue collection.
(iii) Explain the system of lang batai. Do you think this system was better than the other?

33. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Here is an excerpt of a mantra from the Rigveda, which was probably inserted in the text c. 1000 BCE, to be
chanted by the priest while conducting the marriage ritual. It is used in many Hindu weddings even today:
I free her from here, but not from there. I have bound her firmly there so that through the grace of Indra she
Page 8 Sample Paper 08 CBSE History Class 12

will have fine sons and be fortunate in her husband’s love. Indra was one of the principal deities, a god of
valour, warfare and rain. ‘Here’ and ‘there’ refer to the father’s and husband’s house respectively.
(i) Why do people worship Indra?
(ii) What is the meaning of the phrase “I free her from here, but not from there” used in the paragraph?
(iii) Why women should receive the grace of Indra?

SECTION - E
Map Based Questions 1×5=5

34. A. On the given political map of India, locate and label the following with appropriate symbols:
(i) Bharhut - A Major Buddist Site
(ii) Dholavira - A Mature Harappan Site
(iii) Amber - A Territory Under Babur, Akbar and Aurangzeb
O
Taxila - Capital of Gandhara
B. On the same outline map, two places have been marked as ‘1’ and ‘2’, as the Centres of the National
Movement. Identify them and write their correct names on the lines drawn near them.

******
NODIA APP Sample Paper 09 Page 1

Sample Paper 09
Class - 12th Exam - 2025 - 26
History (027)
Time : 3 Hours Max. Marks : 80
General Instructions :
1. Question paper comprises five Sections – A, B, C, D and E. There are 34 questions in the question paper.
All questions are compulsory.
2. Section A – Question 1 to 21 are MCQs of 1 mark each.
3. Section B – Question no. 22 to 27 are Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 3 marks each. Answers to
each question should not exceed 60-80 words.
4. Section C – Question no 28 to 30 are Long Answer Type Questions, carrying 8 marks each. Answer to each
question should not exceed 300-350 words.
5. Section D – Question no.31 to 33 are Source based questions with three sub questions and are of 4 marks
each.
6. Section-E – Question no. 34 is Map based, carrying 5 marks that includes the identification and location of
significant test items. Attach the map with the answer book.
7. There is no overall choice in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in a few
questions. Only one of the choices in such questssions have to be attempted.
8. In addition to this, separate instructions are given with each section and question, wherever necessary.

SECTION - A
Objective Type Questions 21 × 1 = 21

1. How did the introduction of the zabti system impact Mughal agrarian society? Choose the best answer.
(A) By standardizing a fixed revenue assessment system
(B) By emphasizing religious rituals in revenue collection
(C) By granting zamindars full ownership of the land
(D) By focusing on trade routes for tax revenue

2. Which of the following roles was typically associated with the Brahmin varna in ancient Indian society?
(A) Land cultivation and trading
(B) Military service and protection of society
(C) Conducting rituals and performing religious duties
(D) Working as artisans and craftsmen
Page 2 Sample Paper 09 CBSE History Class 12

3. Which of the following best explains the role of the zamindars during the Mughal period?
(A) Zamindars were primarily agricultural workers who farmed the lands owned by the Mughal emperors.
(B) Zamindars acted as intermediaries who collected land revenue on behalf of the Mughal state and
maintained control over large areas of land.
(C) Zamindars were religious leaders who oversaw the construction of temples and mosques in rural areas.
(D) Zamindars were military officials responsible for guarding trade routes and maintaining peace across
the empire.

4. Assertion (A): The revolt of 1857 is often seen as the first war of Indian independence due to its wide-
reaching impact across India.
Reason (R): The revolt was led exclusively by the educated middle class of India who opposed British
policies.
Options:
(A) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(B) Both (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(C) (A) is correct, but (R) is not correct
(D) (R) is correct, but (A) is not correct

5. Consider the following statements about the Civil Disobedience Movement and choose the correct option.
I. The movement was initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930.
II. The movement included the refusal to pay taxes and the boycott of British goods.
III. The Civil Disobedience Movement continued until India achieved independence in 1947.
Options:
(A) I and II (B) II and III
(C) I and III (D) I, II and III

6. Identify the inscription shown in the image below, which records an early Indian king’s achievements.

(A) Girnar Inscription (B) Allahabad Pillar Inscription

(C) Nasik Cave Inscription (D) Hathigumpha Inscription
NODIA APP Sample Paper 09 Page 3

7. Match the member of the Constituent Assembly with their role or contribution.

Column I Column II
(a) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (i) Chairman of the Drafting Committee
(b) Jawaharlal Nehru (ii) Proposed the Objectives Resolution
(c) Sardar Patel (iii) Worked on integration of princely states
(d) Rajendra Prasad (iv) First President of India

Option :
(A) (a) (ii), (b) (iv), (c) (iii), (d) (i)
(B) (a) (i), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(C) (a) (iii), (b) (i), (c) (ii), (d) (iv)
(D) (a) (i), (b) (iii), (c) (ii), (d) (iv)

8. Which of the following factors helped establish Vijayanagara as a thriving center of commerce, culture, and
religion in South India?
(A) Heavy reliance on trade with Delhi
(B) The support for Hindu temples and pilgrimages
(C) Exclusive focus on agrarian revenue from local villages
(D) Prohibition of foreign trade in the empire

9. To which of the following colonial policies did the Permanent Settlement of Bengal relate?
(A) Ryotwari System
(B) Mahalwari System
(C) Zamindari System
(D) Jagirdari System

10. Identify the Harappan site with the help of the following information:
• It is located in present-day Gujarat.
• It served as a dockyard, indicating the importance of maritime trade.
• Bead-making and shell-cutting were prominent industries here.
Options:
(A) Kalibangan
(B) Lothal
(C) Mohenjo-Daro
(D) Harappa

11. Which of the following statements is incorrect regarding Buddhism?

(A) The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Mahayana Buddhism.
(B) Hinayana Buddhism focuses on individual enlightenment and meditation.
(C) Mahayana Buddhism promotes the ideal of the Arhat who achieves nirvana for personal salvation.
(D) Buddhism rejected the rigid caste distinctions present in Indian society.
Page 4 Sample Paper 09 CBSE History Class 12

12. To gain a detailed understanding of Indian society, economy, and cultural practices during the 14th
century, especially from the perspective of an external observer, which of the following would be the most
informative source?
(A) Ibn Battuta’s travel account describing Indian society and customs
(B) The Rigveda, detailing ancient Indian deities and rituals
(C) Al-Biruni’s observations from the 11th century
(D) A British colonial report on Indian administration

13. Match the Sufi saint with their contribution or notable belief.

Column I Column II
(a) Moinuddin Chishti (i) Founder of the Chishti order in India
(b) Baba Farid (ii) Sufi saint of Punjab
(c) Nizamuddin Auliya (iii) Known for his emphasis on tolerance
(d) Shaikh Salim Chishti (iv) Associated with Akbar’s court

Option :
(A) (a) (iii), (b) (ii), (c) (iv), (d) (i)
(B) (a) (i), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(C) (a) (iv), (b) (i), (c) (ii), (d) (iii)
(D) (a) (ii), (b) (iii), (c) (iv), (d) (i)

14. What impact did the British introduction of the Permanent Settlement in Bengal have on the traditional
agrarian structure? Choose the most suitable option.
(A) It made peasants the direct owners of their land.
(B) It made zamindars responsible for collecting a fixed revenue from peasants.
(C) It abolished all zamindari positions in Bengal.
(D) It led to the complete control of agriculture by the British army.

15. Compare the causes of the 1857 Revolt with the Sepoy Mutiny in British India. Choose the best option from
the following.
(A) Both were primarily caused by local kings’ resistance to British policies.
(B) The 1857 Revolt involved widespread civilian participation, unlike the Sepoy Mutiny which was
limited to soldiers.
(C) The Sepoy Mutiny had extensive regional support, whereas the 1857 Revolt was isolated.
(D) Both revolts were solely responses to British interference in religious practices.

16. Why did the Dandi March become an iconic moment in the Indian independence movement led by Mahatma
Gandhi? Choose the best suitable option from the following.
(A) It marked Gandhi’s shift to violent resistance against British rule.
(B) It was a direct action against the British salt monopoly, symbolizing defiance of oppressive laws.
(C) It focused on encouraging foreign nations to intervene in India’s independence struggle.
(D) It aimed solely to boycott British goods without any public mobilization.
NODIA APP Sample Paper 09 Page 5

17. Arrange the following events related to the framing of the Indian Constitution in the correct chronological
order.
I. Formation of the Constituent Assembly
II. Adoption of the Objective Resolution
III. Election of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar as the head of the Drafting Committee
IV. Adoption of the Constitution
Options:
(A) II, I, III, IV
(B) I, II, III, IV
(C) III, IV, I, II
(D) IV, I, II, III

18. Which one of the following features was most characteristic of Harappan urban planning?
(A) Multi-story palaces with elaborate interiors
(B) Underground drainage systems in grid-patterned streets
(C) Temples and shrines dedicated to specific deities
(D) Large stone sculptures in public squares

19. Complete the following with the correct option regarding the founders of prominent dynasties in early India.
Chandragupta Maurya: Maurya Dynasty, Kanishka: ________
Options:
(A) Gupta Dynasty
(B) Kushan Dynasty
(C) Chola Dynasty
(D) Satavahana Dynasty

20. Identify the social category based on the following information:

• This category was at the bottom of the ancient Indian social hierarchy.
• Members of this group often performed menial tasks and were considered “untouchables.”
• They were excluded from temple worship and social interactions with higher classes.
Options:
(A) Brahmins (B) Kshatriyas
(C) Shudras (D) Chandalas

21. Which of the following values was promoted by the teachings of the Buddha in early Indian society?
(A) Ritualistic worship and sacrifices
(B) Accumulation of wealth and material success
(C) Establishment of political alliances among tribes
(D) Individual moral conduct and the path to enlightenment
Page 6 Sample Paper 09 CBSE History Class 12

SECTION - B
Short Answer Type Questions 3 × 6 = 18

22. List some of the practices that took place in the Khanqah of the Sheikhs.
O
Give details about the three texts in which the writings of Kabir are compiled.

23. How did Beruni’s describe the caste system of different countries?

24. What was the fixed set of events that were observed during the riots in the Bombay Deccan?

25. Describe the largest Harappan site in India.

26. What was the view of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on adopting the features of the constitution of other nations?

27. Why did N. G. Ranga argue to interpret minorities in the economic terms in the Constituent Assembly?
Explain.
O
What was the view of Somnath Lahiri on the Constituent Assembly of India? Discuss in detail the excerpts
he wrote in his letters.

SECTION - C
Long Answer Type Questions 8 × 3 = 24

28. What were some of the reasons that led to the rapid expansion of Buddhism in India and other parts of the
world?
O
What was the significance of the construction of the stupas?

29. How Paes had given a vivid description of the bazaar?

O
Describe the various efforts made by scholars to reconstruct the history of the city and the empire from the
ruins of Hampi up to the 19th century.

30. Examine the repressive measures adopted by British to subdue the rebels of 1857.
O
Describe how the British celebrated those whom they believed saved the English and repressed the rebels
during the Revolt of 1857.
NODIA APP Sample Paper 09 Page 7

SECTION - D
Source Based Questions 4 × 3 = 12

31. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:
“Tomorrow we shall break the salt tax law.” On 5 April 1930, Mahatma Gandhi spoke at Dandi:
When I left Sabarmati with my companions for this seaside hamlet of Dandi, I was not certain in my mind
that we would be allowed to reach this place. Even while I was at Sabarmati there was a rumour that I
might be arrested. I had thought that the Government might perhaps let my party come as far as Dandi, but
not me certainly. If someone says that this betrays imperfect faith on my part, I shall not deny the charge.
That I have reached here is in no small measure due to the power of peace and non-violence: that power is
universally felt. The Government may, if it wishes, congratulate itself on acting as it has done, for it could
have arrested every one of us. In saying that it did not have the courage to arrest this army of peace, we
praise it. It felt ashamed to arrest such an army. He is a civilized man who feels ashamed to do anything
which his neighbours would disapprove. The Government deserves to be congratulated on not arresting us,
even if it desisted only from fear of world opinion. Tomorrow we shall break the salt tax law. Whether the
Government will tolerate that is a different question. It may not tolerate it, but it deserves congratulations
on the patience and forbearance it has displayed in regard to this party.........What if I and all the eminent
leaders in Gujarat and in the rest of the country are arrested? This movement is based on the faith that when
a whole nation is roused and on the march no leader is necessary.
(CWMG) vol. 49 Collected works of Mahatma Gandhi.
(i) Why did Gandhiji started the Dandi March?
(ii) Why was Salt March notable?
(iii) “The power of peace and non-violence is universally felt.” Why Gandhiji said so?

32. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:
To justify their claims, Brahmanas often cited a verse from a hymn in the Rigveda known as the Purusha
sukta, describing the sacrifice of Purusha, the primeval man. All the elements of the universe, including the
four social categories, were supposed to have emanated from his body: The Brahmana was his mouth, of his
arms was made the Kshatriya. His thighs became the Vaishya, of his feet the Shudra, was born.
(i) Who was Purusha?
(ii) Why did Brahamanas recite the verses of a hymn from a Rigveda?
(iii) What are the different parts of ‘Purusha’ with which Brahamanas has compared the four varnas?

33. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

Peasants on the Move

This was a feature of agrarian society which struck a keen observer like Babur, the first Mughal emperor,
forcefully enough for him to write about it in the Baburnama, his memoirs: In Hindustan hamlets and
villages, towns indeed, are depopulated and set up in a moment! If the people of a large town, one inhabited
for years even, flee from it, they do it in such a way that not a sign or trace of them remains in a day and a
half. On the other hand, if they fix their eyes on a place to settle, they need not dig watercourses because
their crops are all rain-grown, and as the population of Hindustan is unlimited it swarms in. They make a
tank or a well; they need not build houses or set up walls.... Khas-grass abounds, wood is unlimited, huts
are made, and straightaway there is a village or a town!
Page 8 Sample Paper 09 CBSE History Class 12

(i) What is Baburnama? Which feature of the Mughal period is expressed in this excerpt taken from the
Baburnama?
(ii) What has been said about the Hindustani hamlets and villages in this excerpt?
(iii) How did the people build a village as city in a moment?

SECTION - E
Map Based Questions 1×5=5

34. A. On the given political map of India, locate and label the following with appropriate symbols:
(i) Kanpur - A Main Centre of the Revolt of 1857
(ii) Surat - A City Under the British Control in 1857
(iii) Topra - Ashoka Pillar Inscription
O
Amaravati - A Buddhist Site
B. On the same outline map, two places have been marked as ‘1’ and ‘2’, as the Mature Harappan Sites.
Identify them and write their correct names on the lines drawn near them.

******
NODIA APP Sample Paper 10 Page 1

Sample Paper 10
Class - 12th Exam - 2025 - 26
History (027)
Time : 3 Hours Max. Marks : 80
General Instructions :
1. Question paper comprises five Sections – A, B, C, D and E. There are 34 questions in the question paper.
All questions are compulsory.
2. Section A – Question 1 to 21 are MCQs of 1 mark each.
3. Section B – Question no. 22 to 27 are Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 3 marks each. Answers to
each question should not exceed 60-80 words.
4. Section C – Question no 28 to 30 are Long Answer Type Questions, carrying 8 marks each. Answer to each
question should not exceed 300-350 words.
5. Section D – Question no.31 to 33 are Source based questions with three sub questions and are of 4 marks
each.
6. Section-E – Question no. 34 is Map based, carrying 5 marks that includes the identification and location of
significant test items. Attach the map with the answer book.
7. There is no overall choice in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in a few
questions. Only one of the choices in such questssions have to be attempted.
8. In addition to this, separate instructions are given with each section and question, wherever necessary.

SECTION - A
Objective Type Questions 21 × 1 = 21

1. If you are interested in exploring how Buddhism spread in its early stages and influenced architectural
practices across the region, which of the following sources would be most useful for your study?
(A) Ashokan edicts found on pillars across the subcontinent
(B) Manuscripts on temple construction in the Gupta period
(C) Epic literature describing mythological stories
(D) A collection of Vedic hymns and rituals

2. Which of the following was an achievement of the Mauryan ruler Ashoka?

(A) Expansion of Sanskrit literature
(B) Establishment of diplomatic relations with distant lands
(C) Development of the Mauryan currency system
(D) Support for the spread of Buddhism throughout his empire and beyond
Page 2 Sample Paper 10 CBSE History Class 12

3. Which of the following statements best describes a significant architectural feature of Vijayanagara’s
imperial capital, Hampi?
(A) Vijayanagara’s architecture was primarily built using iron and steel, giving it a unique appearance
compared to other Indian cities.
(B) The architecture of Vijayanagara featured a fusion of Hindu temple designs with Islamic architectural
styles, reflecting the cultural exchanges of the time.
(C) Vijayanagara’s architecture had a complete absence of royal or religious monuments, focusing solely
on functional structures like markets.
(D) Vijayanagara’s architecture predominantly relied on wooden structures that did not survive over time.

4. Match the event with its description during the Indian freedom struggle.

Column I Column II
(a) Champaran Movement (i) Boycott of foreign cloth
(b) Dandi March (ii) Protest against salt tax
(c) Non-Cooperation Movement (iii) Protest against Indigo planters
(d) Quit India Movement (iv) Mass call to end British rule

Option :
(A) (a) (iii), (b) (ii), (c) (i), (d) (iv)
(B) (a) (iv), (b) (iii), (c) (ii), (d) (i)
(C) (a) (ii), (b) (i), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
(D) (a) (iv), (b) (ii), (c) (i), (d) (iii)

5. To which Mughal emperor is the introduction of the Dahsala revenue system attributed?
(A) Babur (B) Akbar
(C) Shah Jahan (D) Aurangzeb

6. Identify the artifact from the Harappan Civilization depicted in the image below.

(A) Terracotta figurine (B) Harappan Seal

(C) Bronze dancing girl (D) Stone weights
NODIA APP Sample Paper 10 Page 3

7. Consider the following statements regarding the Revolt of 1857 and choose the correct option.
I. The revolt began as a mutiny by sepoys in the Bengal army.
II. It was supported by both peasants and zamindars.
III. The revolt was successful in ending British rule in India.
Options:
(A) I and II (B) I and III
(C) II and III (D) I, II and III

8. Assertion (A): The Ryotwari system introduced by the British involved direct settlement with the cultivators,
bypassing traditional landlords.
Reason (R): Under this system, the land revenue was fixed and did not vary based on agricultural productivity
or output.
Options:
(A) Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(B) Both (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(C) (A) is correct, but (R) is not correct
(D) (R) is correct, but (A) is not correct

9. Which of the following statements is incorrect about the varna system in ancient India?
(A) Brahmins were expected to perform sacrifices and other religious rituals.
(B) Kshatriyas were responsible for warfare and protecting the people.
(C) Shudras were responsible for trading and maintaining economic affairs.
(D) Vaishyas engaged in agriculture, trade, and other economic activities.

10. Identify the person based on the following information:

• He was the chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution.
• He played a crucial role in framing the Constitution and is known as the “Father of the Indian
Constitution.”
• He was a prominent Dalit leader and social reformer.
Options:
(A) Dr. Rajendra Prasad (B) Jawaharlal Nehru
(C) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (D) Sardar Patel

11. Match the medieval traveler with their observation or description.

Column I Column II
(a) Ibn Battuta (i) Mentioned Deccan’s prosperity
(b) Al-Biruni (ii) Studied Indian religions and sciences
(c) Jean-Baptiste Tavernier (iii) French jeweler who wrote about Indian trade
(d) Duarte Barbosa (iv) Portuguese writer on Indian coastal trade

Option :
(A) (a) (ii), (b) (i), (c) (iii), (d) (iv) (B) (a) (ii), (b) (iv), (c) (i), (d) (iii)
(C) (a) (iii), (b) (ii), (c) (iv), (d) (i) (D) (a) (i), (b) (ii), (c) (iii), (d) (iv)
Page 4 Sample Paper 10 CBSE History Class 12

12. Which of the following factors contributed significantly to the appeal of the Sufi movement among common
people in medieval India?
(A) Its emphasis on ritualistic worship practices
(B) Use of music, poetry, and dance in devotion to God
(C) Strict adherence to caste distinctions in Sufi institutions
(D) Exclusive use of Arabic in Sufi literature and teachings

13. How did the construction of large temples in Vijayanagara reflect the empire’s socio-political structure?
Choose the most suitable answer.
(A) By demonstrating the military strength of the rulers
(B) By reinforcing the role of temple-based festivals
(C) By showcasing the wealth and devotion of Vijayanagara rulers
(D) By emphasizing trade policies with Southeast Asia

14. What was the primary role of zamindars in the Mughal agrarian system, as described in historical records?
Choose the most appropriate option.
(A) Zamindars were responsible for maintaining the Mughal navy.
(B) Zamindars collected land revenue from peasants and managed local administration.
(C) Zamindars served exclusively as military advisors to the emperor.
(D) Zamindars were responsible for conducting religious ceremonies.

15. How did the impact of the Permanent Settlement in Bengal compare to that of the Ryotwari settlement in
Madras? Choose the best suitable option.
(A) Both systems granted peasants direct ownership of their land.
(B) The Permanent Settlement empowered zamindars, while Ryotwari settlement made peasants responsible
for paying revenue directly.
(C) Both systems promoted zamindari rights across all villages.
(D) The Ryotwari system eliminated revenue collection, while the Permanent Settlement did not.

16. Why was the introduction of the Enfield rifle a significant cause of the 1857 Revolt? Choose the best
suitable option from the following.
(A) The rifle required rigorous training which Indian soldiers resisted.
(B) It reduced the status of Indian soldiers in the British army.
(C) The British exclusively distributed it to European soldiers.
(D) Its cartridges were rumored to be greased with cow and pig fat, offending religious sentiments of both
Hindus and Muslims.
NODIA APP Sample Paper 10 Page 5

17. Which of the following events associated with the Indian freedom struggle is in the correct chronological
order?
I. Non-Cooperation Movement
II. Civil Disobedience Movement
III. Quit India Movement
IV. Champaran Satyagraha
Options:
(A) IV, I, II, III (B) III, II, I, IV
(C) II, IV, III, I (D) I, IV, II, III

18. Which of the following was a primary goal of the Directive Principles of State Policy in the Indian
Constitution?
(A) Ensuring judicial power for the state
(B) Providing guidelines for a welfare state to ensure social and economic equity
(C) Restricting industrial development to protect the environment
(D) Establishing religious instruction as mandatory in all schools

19. Complete the following with the correct option regarding the significant cities of the Harappan Civilization.
Mohenjo-Daro: Sindh, Harappa: ________
Options:
(A) Punjab (B) Gujarat
(C) Rajasthan (D) Maharashtra

20. Identify the text with the help of the following information:
• This ancient Indian treatise discusses statecraft, politics, and economic policies.
• It was written by Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, the advisor to Chandragupta Maurya.
• The text emphasizes the duties of a king and the importance of diplomacy and espionage.
Options:
(A) Manusmriti (B) Ramayana
(C) Arthashastra (D) Mahabharata

21. Which of the following ideas was emphasized in the Manusmriti to maintain social order?
(A) Equality of all individuals
(B) Specific duties and roles assigned by varna (caste)
(C) Complete religious freedom for all
(D) Economic parity across all social classes
Page 6 Sample Paper 10 CBSE History Class 12

SECTION - B
Short Answer Type Questions 3 × 6 = 18

22. ‘There was a significant contribution of Krishnadeva Raya in the expansion of Vijayanagara Empire.’
Explain.
O
Write about the characteristic of distinct building style of Vijayanagara and give some examples.

23. What were the provision of fiscal federalism agreed by the members of Constitutional Assembly?

24. Citadel has well marked features that separate it from the other section of the Harappan civilisation. Give a
brief description of Citadel in the context of this observation.

25. Explain, how the zamindars and merchants were badly affected due to the British rule in India, according
to the Azamgarh proclamation of 25th August, 1857.

26. Briefly describe the Jajmani system.

27. What were the influences of Buddhism on Indian society?

O
What was the role played by the land and riverine routes along with other communication during the
Mauryan period?

SECTION - C
Long Answer Type Questions 8 × 3 = 24

28. Write in details about the evidence given by Ibn Battuta in support of his statement that Delhi was a city
full of exciting opportunities.
O
Describe the importance of Ibn Battuta’s account fort understanding life in contemporary urban centres.

29. How did Sutta Pitaka reconstruct the philosophy of Buddhism? Mention about Buddhist Tripitaka.
O
Write down the significance of Stupa in Buddhisn and critically examine why Sanchi Stupa survived while
Amaravati did not?

30. How the arrival of Mahatma Gandhi changed the way of Indian politics?
O
Describe the different sources from which we can reconstruct the political career of Gandhiji and the history
of National Movement?
NODIA APP Sample Paper 10 Page 7

SECTION - D
Source Based Questions 4 × 3 = 12
31. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow.
Shankaradev
In the late fifteenth century.
Shankaradeva emerged as one of the leading proponents of Vaishnavism in Assam. His teachings, often
known as the Bhagavati Dharma because they were based on the Bhagavad Gita and the Bhagavata Purana,
focused on absolute surrender to the supreme deity, in this case of Vishnu.
He emphasised the need for naam kirtan, recitation of the names of the lord in sat sanga or congregations
of pious devotees. He also encouraged the establishment of satra or monasteries for the transmission of
spiritual knowledge and naam ghar or prayer halls. Many of these institutions and practices continue to
flourish in the region. His major compositions include the Kirtana-ghosha.
(i) Who was Shankaradeva?
(ii) Why were his teachings referred as Bhagavati Dharma? Mention his one composition.
(iii) Why did he encourage the establishment of Satra and Naam Ghar?

32. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow.
Life in a Small Village
The Harshacharita is a biography of Harshavardhana, the ruler of Kannauj, composed in Sanskrit by
his court poet, Banabhatta (C seventh century CE). This is an excerpt from the text, an extremely rare
representation of life in a settlement on the outskirts of a forest in the Vindhyas. The outskirts being for the
most part of forest, many parcels of rice-land, threshing ground and arable land were being apportioned
by small farmers. It was mainly spade culture ... owing to the difficulty of ploughing the sparsely scattered
fields covered with grass, with their few clear spaces, their black soil stiff as black iron.
There were people moving along with bundles of bark... countless sacks of plucked flowers, ... loads of
flax and hemp bundles, quantities of honey, peacocks’ tail feathers, wreaths of wax, logs and grass. Village
wives hastened on route for neighbouring villages, all intent on thoughts of sale and bearing on their heads
baskets filled with various gathered forest fruit.
(i) Who was the author of Harshacharita?
(ii) Describe the outskirts of a forest in the Vindhyas.
(iii) Describe the activities of the people of that area. Mention two main activities of the farmers of that
time.

33. Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow.
“We want removal of our social disabilities”
Dakshayani Velayudhan from Madras, argued what we want is not all kind of safeguards. It is the moral
safeguard which gives protection to the underdogs of this country_______I refer to believe that seventy
million Harijans are to be considered as a minority. What we want is the_______immediates removal of
our social disabilities.
(i) Why Scheduled Caste of the country were referred as ‘Underdog’?
(ii) What are social disabilities suffered by the Harijan of the country?
(iii) How can be the moral safeguard be more effective than constitutional safeguard in protection of
underdogs of the country?
Page 8 Sample Paper 10 CBSE History Class 12

SECTION - E
Map Based Questions 1×5=5

34. A. (i) Locate and label Mahajanapada Ujjaini Or Kuru.

(ii) Locate and label Mysore
(iii) Mark Chanhudaro
B. On the given political outline map of India, two major Buddhist sites have been marked as respectively.
Identify and write their name.

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