KENDRIYA VIDYALAYA NO.

1, AJMER
PRACTICE PAPER -2024-25
READING SECTION

SET 1 SECTION A – READING SKILLS

I. Read the following passage carefully: 12

1. In a disarmingly frank talk at the Indian Merchants Chamber in Mumbai, the Japanese
Ambassador in India dwelt at length on issues that exercise the minds of Japanese investors
when they consider investment proposals in India. Raising the question ―What comparative
advantages does India offer as an investment market? He said, though labour in India is
inexpensive, wage levels are offset by productivity level to a large extent.
2. Acknowledging that the vastness of the Indian market is a great inducement for investment in
manufacturing industry, he wondered if it was justifiable to provide that overseas remittance of
profit in foreign exchange was fully covered by exchange earnings as had been done.
3. Significantly, on the eve of the Prime Minister‘s visit to Japan, the government delinked profits
repatriation from exports, meeting this demand. The Ambassador said foreign investors needed
to be assured of the continuity and consistency of the liberalization policy and the fact that new
measures had been put into force by means of administrative notifications without amending
government laws acted as a damper. The Ambassador pleaded for speedy formulation of the
exit policy and pointed to the highly restrictive control by the government on disinvestment by
foreign partners in joint ventures in India.
4. While it is all too easy to dismiss critical comment on conditions in India contemptuously,
there can be little doubt that if foreign investment is to be wooed assiduously, we will have to
meet exacting international standards and cater at least partially to what we may consider the
idiosyncrasies of our foreign collaborators. The Japanese too have passed through a stage in
the fifties when their products were derided as sub-standard and shoddy. That they have come
out of that ordeal of fire to emerge as an economic superpower speaks as much of their
doggedness to pursue goals against all odds as of their ability to improvise and adapt to
internationally acceptable standards.
5. There is no gainsaying that the past record of Japanese investment is a poor benchmark for
future expectations. For attaining a level field for equal play, India will have to accelerate
reforms in all fields. Economic reforms embarked on in early 1990s have almost reached their
saturation and new areas for reforms will not only have to be identified, but also be implemented
in an expedite manner. Stability in implementing laws will definitely pave the path of reforms, as
we all know what havoc the retrospective implementation of some laws produced in India. To
reap the demographic dividends, India will have to cater to the needs of the aspiring young
population.
I. The author has appreciated the Japanese for their: 1
A. quality of products manufactured in the fifties.
B. passing through an ordeal.
C. perseverance in raising quality of products.
D. future expectations.

II Write the opposite with a word from the given stanza:

expensive : cheap: : decelerate: ---------------- 1

III The purpose of the author in writing this passage seems to be to 1

A. discourage foreign investment in India.
B. critically examine Indian investment environment.
C. paint a rosy picture of India‘s trade and commerce.
D. criticize government‘s liberalization policy.

IV Write at least two suggestions expected from the Japanese Ambassador? 2

V According to the Japanese Ambassador, what motivates the investors to
invest in a country like India? 1

VI For seeking more and more foreign investment, what are different
suggestions (minimum two) given by the speaker? 2

VII Complete the following statement: 1

From the passage it can be inferred that the author is a/an

VIII Which of the following statement(s) is/are true about the critical comments on investment
conditions in India? 1
(A) These comments are difficult to be countered.
(B) These comments are received from various international quarters.
(C) These comments are based more on biases than on facts.
A. Only C
B. Only B
C. Only A
D. A and B only

IX What does the author attribute Japan‘s emergence as an economic superpower to?1

X Find the word in the passage (para 4) which means, “to do something with careful
dedication and consistent efforts” 1

2. Read the following carefully. 10

1. Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) are products that sell quickly at relatively low cost.
FMCG is the fourth-largest sector in the Indian economy. There are three main segments in
the sector food and beverages, which accounts for 19% of the sector; healthcare, which
accounts for 31% of the share; and household and personal care, which accounts for the
remaining 50% share. The urban segment contributes to about 55% of the revenue share,
while the rural segment accounts for 45%. Rise in rural consumption will drive the FMCG
market. The Indian processed food market is projected to expand to US$ 470 billion by 2025,
up from US$ 263 billion in 2019- 20.
2. The Indian FMCG industry grew by 16% in 2021, a 9-year high, despite nationwide
lockdowns, supported by consumption-led growth and value expansion from higher product
prices, particularly for staples. Real household spending is projected to increase 9·1% after
2021, after a decrease of 9·3% in 2020 due to the economic impact of the pandemic. Price
increase across product categories will offset the impact of rising raw material prices, along with
volume growth and ' of demand for discretionary items.
3. The FMCG sector has received good investments and support from the Government in the
recent past. The sector witnessed healthy FDI inflows from April 2000- March 2022.
Furthermore, as per the Union Budget 2022- 23, a substantial amount has been allocated to the
Department of Consumer Affairs, an increased amount has been allocated to the Department of
Food and Public Distribution. In 2021 -22, the Government approved Production- Linked
Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry (PLISFPI) with an outlay of a larger amount to
help Indian brands of food products in the international markets.
4. The Government’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme gives companies a major
opportunity to boost exports. The future outlook of the FMCG rural sector looks on track now.
Rural consumption has increased, led by a combination of increasing income and higher
aspiration levels. There is an increased demand for branded products in rural India. The growth
of organised sector in FMCG is expected to rise with an increased level of brand
consciousness, augmented by the growth in modern retail.

Answer the following questions, based on given passage.

I. Does the following statement agree with the information given in para 1?
Food and beverages segment dominates the Global FMCG market and is expected to retain its
dominance.
Select from the following:
I. The statement agrees with the information
II. The statement contradicts the information
III. There is no information on this
IV. The statement neither agrees nor disagrees with the information

II. What do you think gives opportunities to boost exports? 2

III. Select the option that displays the most likely reason for FMCG rural sector being on track. 1
(a) FMCG sector has been unable to get investments from the Government.
(b) PLI schemes do not reach the rural sector.
(c) Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) of the online grocery segment in India is expected to
double in the next five years.
(d) There is a desire to buy branded products in the villages too.
IV. Complete the sentence based on the following statement: 1
The Indian FMCG industry grew by 16% in 2021, a 9-year high, despite nationwide lockdowns
because………...

V. From the given pie chart, which segment of FMCG accounts for the maximum percentage of
the sector? 1

VI. Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option: The combination of
increasing income and higher aspiration levels in the rural areas has led to: 1
(a) the Government taking a direct interest
(b) the demand for branded products
(c) price increases across product categories
(d) the fall of supply in urban areas
VII. How is the Government trying to help? Mention any two measures taken by it. 2
VIII. Find the word from the paragraph (2) which exactly has the same meaning as “regulated by
one’s own judgement”. 1

SET 2 SECTION A – READING SKILLS 22 Marks

1. Read the following passage carefully: 12
1. In the rapidly evolving landscape of the 21st century, the role of technology in education has
become increasingly paramount. Traditional educational paradigms, once rooted in rote learning
and standardized testing, are giving way to innovative methodologies that emphasize critical
thinking, creativity, and collaboration. As students engage with digital tools and resources, they
are not merely passive recipients of information; they are active participants in their own
learning processes.
2. However, this shift is not without its challenges. The digital divide remains a significant barrier,
as students from lower socio-economic backgrounds often lack access to the necessary
technologies that facilitate modern learning. Moreover, the overwhelming presence of
technology can lead to cognitive overload, where the sheer volume of information available can
confuse rather than clarify. It is essential to strike a balance between harnessing the benefits of
technology and ensuring that fundamental skills, such as reading comprehension and problem-
solving, are not neglected.
3. Furthermore, educators must adapt to this new environment by rethinking their roles. Rather
than being the sole authority in the classroom, teachers must become facilitators of learning,
guiding students as they navigate through a wealth of resources. Professional development and
training in new pedagogical strategies are crucial for educators to effectively integrate
technology into their teaching practices.
4. In this context, it is imperative for educational institutions to foster an environment that
promotes both technological literacy and traditional academic skills. The future of education
hinges on our ability to prepare students for a world that is increasingly interconnected, where
adaptability and innovation will be key to success.
5. As we move forward, it is also vital for educational policies to support this transition. Funding
for technology infrastructure, training programs, and resources for underserved communities
must be prioritized. Collaborations between schools and tech companies can help bridge gaps
and provide students with the tools they need to thrive. Ultimately, the objective should be to
create a holistic educational experience that equips students with the skills to navigate the
complexities of the modern world confidently. Answer the following questions, based on the
passage above.
I. In the passage, teachers transitioning from sole authority figures to facilitators in the
classroom is likened to: 1
A) A coach guiding athletes through training rather than just giving instructions.
B) A director instructing actors exactly what to say and do in a play.
C) A chef who insists on preparing every dish alone without assistance from kitchen staff.
D) A scientist working alone in a lab without consulting other researchers.
II. Which of the following is highlighted as a major barrier to the integration of technology in
education? 1
A) Lack of interest from students
B) The digital divide
C) Insufficient textbooks
D) Overqualified teachers
III. Define the term “digital divide” as used in the passage? 2
IV. According to the passage, the ultimate goal of education is……… 1
A) To ensure students master traditional academic skills
B) To prepare students for an interconnected, innovative world
C) To reduce the digital divide entirely
D) To increase the number of teachers in schools
V. Complete the following sentence: -
In order to effectively integrate technology into classrooms, educators need to focus on and
training in new pedagogical strategies. 1
VI. Why is it important for educators to rethink their roles in the context of technological
integration in education? 2
VII. Find a synonym of the word ‘Partnerships.’ (para -5) 1
VIII. Suggest some educational technologies that support modern learning in classroom.1
IX. Identify the antonym of the word “modern” as used in the context of educational paradigms.
(para 1) 1
X. What should educational policies prioritize to support the transition to technology in
education? 1
2. Read the following carefully. 10
1. Water is one of the most essential resources for sustaining life, and its availability is crucial
for human survival. However, the global water supply is under tremendous strain due to
overpopulation, pollution, climate change, and unsustainable usage practices.
2. The table below shows global water consumption across different sectors and regions.
 REGION AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY DOMESTIC TOTAL
WATER
WITHDRAW
AL
North 450 220 100 770
America
Europe 320 250 120 700
Asia 1,800 500 400 2,700
Africa 500 60 40 600
Latin 550 100 80 730
America
 WATER CONSUMPTION UNIT IS SHOWN IN BILLION CUBIC METRES.
3. According to the United Nations, global water demand is expected to increase by 55% by
2050. Agriculture, which already accounts for 70% of water withdrawals, is projected to
consume even more water due to the growing demand for food. Industrial water consumption is
also rising, driven by the rapid expansion of manufacturing sectors in developing countries.
4. Compounding the issue is climate change, which is affecting precipitation patterns and
increasing the frequency of droughts. Many countries are already experiencing severe water
shortages. By 2025, two-thirds of the world’s population could be living in areas suffering from
water stress.
5. To address this looming crisis, global cooperation is needed. Some countries have already
started investing in advanced technologies like desalination, wastewater recycling, and water-
efficient irrigation systems. However, without a coordinated international response, these efforts
may not be enough to prevent widespread water scarcity.
Answer the following questions, based on given passage.
I. What is the total water withdrawal in the region with highest total water consumption? 1
II. Based on the passage, list two major factors contributing to the global water crisis. 2
III. Calculate the percentage of total water withdrawal for agriculture that in Africa.1
IV. Which technologies are being used to combat water scarcity according to the passage? 1
V. Which sector accounts for the largest share of global water consumption? 1
A. Domestic
B. Industry
C. Agriculture
D. Energy

VI. Assertion (A): By 2050, global water demand is expected to increase by 55%. 1
Reason (R): Agriculture already accounts for 70% of water withdrawals and is projected to
consume even more due to the rising demand for food.
Choose the correct option:
A) Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of
Assertion (A).
B) Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of
Assertion (A).
C) Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
D) Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
VII. By 2025, what fraction of the world’s population is expected to live in areas experiencing
water stress? 1
A) One-third
B) Two-thirds
C) Half
D) Three-fourths

VIII. Predict the possible impact on the global water crisis by 2050 if current trends continue. 2
SET 3 SECTION A: READING SKILLS 22 MARKS
I. Read the following passage: 12
1. Have you ever caught yourself scratching your head, twitching your ear, tapping your foot or
playing with your keys or pen? If you have, you are a sure fidgetier. And it is very likely that the
habit has carried over from childhood, when you are wriggling probably exasperated—and
sometimes amused—your parents and teachers. It is not a pleasant sight to see a grown-up
person fidgeting; in fact, it is a distraction.
2. Recently, some doctors in Britain have discovered that not only is fidgeting quite normal, it
even does you good.
3. Almost everybody fidgets when they feel hot, cold, hungry, thirsty or tired. Being kept waiting
also brings us to fidgets. Most of this is normal but then with some this translates into
exaggerated mannerisms, that is where we have a problem. When the British doctors wired up
volunteers to an electric fidget meter, followed by a grueling interview, some stayed almost
completely still. Others made up to 57 movements in half a minute. Since the rate went up when
disturbing topics were raised, it seemed that those who fidgeted more were the anxious types,
needing to release nervous energy.
4. This is what led to the conclusion that fidgeting has its uses too—since it helps get rid of
stress that could sometimes lead to headaches, muscle pain or even ulcers. Fidgeting is also
believed to fight the flab. Add up all those little movements made by fidgetiers during their
waking hours and they burn up as much energy as a jog, the report said.
5. While British doctors may feel that fidgeting is an expression of anxious behavior, doctors
here do not necessarily agree.
6. Meanwhile a former assistant professor in Los Angeles opines that fidgeting is a sign of
“some underlying tension which is causing anxiety”. While one cannot make generalized
statements, some experts feel that pencil-suckers yearn for babyhood, teeth-grinders and fist
clenchers seem to be holding back their aggression, foot tappers wish to be on the move and
people who scratch may wish to injure themselves.
7. A leading psychiatrist gives a positive side to the anxiety angle. According to him, “a bit of
anxiety is not harmful since it induces one to do better. It often brings out the best in people—
while meeting deadlines, submitting reports or at interviews and examinations.” He gives the
example of tennis players who play with “manageable anxiety”, but warns that when the fidgets
turn to restlessness, it might affect performance. Often, he says, a person suffering from a
neurological illness ends up fidgeting deliberately, “mainly to distract his companion from his
actual problem. It could be something as harmless as the shaking of the hand or twitching of the
eye.”
8. Refuting this, another psychiatrist insists that fidgeting in no way should be considered good.
“It may be innocuous unless it is harming the fidgetier or annoying others, but what fidgeting
really reveals is a lack of confidence and even social phobia, besides, of course, anxiety. It, in
fact, sends non-verbal messages to people who then treat the person accordingly— as nervous
or anxious individuals,” he adds.
9. Unfortunately, a fidgetier often find it hard to kick the habit, even when it’s socially
unacceptable.
[Link] those fidgeting are themselves perturbed by the habit, efforts in controlling it could
cause other problems, because, “the person could get hypertense or worried about being
unable to tackle it and get more fidgety in the process.” Experts, in the meantime, keep
suggesting remedies or tricks to get out of fidgeting habits, like playing with a coin in your
pocket or glove, or wearing a ring which you can rub without others noticing. In Greece, many
taxi-drivers carry worry-beads which they click while waiting to combat fidgeting, while some
stores in London’s West End once sold pieces of polished stone designed for gently stroking
with the thumb.
11. Dr James Buyers, a neurologist of London, hopes for a more lasting and practical solution.
“Anything that will stop the speed of modern life for even half a minute will definitely be
beneficial,” he says.
Based on the reading of the passage, answer the questions given below: 1
i. Choose the most appropriate statement to complete the sentence.
The habit of fidgeting in a grown-up person is
(a) a childish habit in a grown up
(b) a sign of exasperation and amusement
(c) not a pleasant sight and a distraction
(d) is normal and does good

ii. According to the author, what were the findings of British doctors using a fidget meter? 1
iii. State TRUE or FALSE- 1
Fidgeting can be a habit carried forward from one’s childhood days.
Iv. Based on your understanding of the text, how does fidgeting help individuals? (any two) 2
V. ‘Grueling’ in Para 3 does not convey the meaning present in which sentence? 1
a. ’The grueling experience caused two students to exit the study early.’
b. ‘He had complained of exhaustion after his grueling schedule over the past week.’
c. ’He eventually won the match after five grueling sets.’
d. The restaurant serves good food and drink in grueling surroundings, that is why everyone
loves it.’

vi. Mention some of the commonalities noticed among various kinds of fidgetiers? State any
two. 2
vii. How do British doctors' and American doctors' views on fidgeting differ? 1
viii. Given below are some ways by which people who fidget can rid themselves of the habit with
a lasting solution. Select the practical solution given by Dr Buyers. 1
(a) Playing with a coin in one’s pocket
(b) Stopping the speed of life for even half a minute
(c) Clicking on worry beads like Greek taxi drivers
(d) Stroking polished stones with one’s thumb

ix. The person who visualizes a newer way of controlling fidgeting is . 1

x. Suggest a suitable title for the passage. 1
Q.2. Read the following passage and answer accordingly: 10
By exporting goods worth $301.4 billion, India has already attained over 75% of its ambitious
export target of $400 billion set for 2021-22, reveals the Economic Survey 2021-22. Notably, the
country has set an export target of $300 billion for the April-December period of 2021-22.
This shows that India is well on track as far as attaining the export target is concerned. After
bottoming out in Q1: FY 21, there was an impressive rebound in India’s merchandise exports,
with strong sequential growth, crossing a milestone of $100 billion in Q2 and Q3 of 2021-22.
This is remarkable in view of moderation in global trade growth, elevated shipping rates and
persistent problem of container shortages,” says the government’s annual economic survey.
It further noted that the rise in exports is contributed by high growth in petroleum, oil and
lubricants (POL) exports (constituting about 15% of total exports) as well as non-POL exports,
indicating the broad-based nature of expansion. Over 85% of major export commodity groups
recorded positive growth during April-December, 2021 over April-December, 2020. Driven by
robust demand for engineering goods, gems & jewelry, and chemicals, the non- POL exports
stood at $257.5 billion during 2021-22 (April-December), registering a growth of 40.1% over the
corresponding period of last year and 24.9% over 2019-20(April-December).
The government’s survey also observed that India’s agricultural exports continue to do well in
2021-22, thanks to increased demand for staples during the Covid-19 pandemic. It stated that
the export of agriculture and allied products (including marine and plantation products) grew by
23.2% to $31 billion during April-November, 2021 over the corresponding period of 2020-21 and
by 35% over April-November 2019, surpassing the pre-pandemic levels.

The survey observed that even the segments like marine products, buffalo meat, tea, coffee
and dairy products, which had not performed well during 2020-21, have registered substantial
growth during the current year. This augurs well for further diversification and strengthening of
agricultural exports in the coming years, it added.
Based on the reading of the passage, answer the questions given below:
i. What does Q in Q1, Q2 and Q3 stand for in the above survey? 1
(a) Quintal (b) Question (c)Query (d)Quarter
ii. Which of the following options stands correct for Rice-Basmati export in Table 1? 1
(a)Increased in 2020-21(April-Nov) compared to 2020-21
(b)Less in 2019-20 compared to 2020-21(April-Nov)
(c) Decreased in 2020-21 compared to 2019-20.
(d)Remains same in all the years given in the Table

Iii There was no change in the export of commodities ranked & in 2019-20 and 2020-21.
1
(a) 8th, 10th
(b) 5th, 9th
(c) 7th,4th
(d) 1st, 6th

iv. Mention the factors that contributed to the rise in India's exports in 2021-22, according to the
Economic Survey. 1
v. Why is the achievement of Indian Merchandise Export being called ‘remarkable’? 2
vi. How much percentage do the Petroleum, oil and lubricants export add up to the total Indian
exports? 1
vii. How much was the export target for India’s merchandise goods in the 2021-22 period,
according to the Economic Survey? 2
viii. State whether the following statement is True or False: 1
“The Economic Survey concludes that the performance of Indian Agricultural Exports will be
worse in the coming years.”
SET 4 SECTION A – READING SKILLS 22 Marks
I. Read the following passage carefully: 12
1. Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, are becoming
increasingly important in the global effort to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate
change. Solar power harnesses energy from the sun using photovoltaic cells, while wind power
is generated by turbines that convert the kinetic energy of wind into electricity. Hydroelectric
power, on the other hand, uses the flow of water to produce energy, typically from dams built on
large rivers. These energy sources are not only sustainable but also produce little to no
greenhouse gas emissions, making them essential for a greener future.
2. The growth of renewable energy has led to significant technological advancements. Solar
panels, for instance, are now more efficient and affordable than ever before, allowing
households and businesses to install them on rooftops and generate their own electricity. Wind
turbines have also evolved, with larger and more efficient designs being implemented in wind
farms around the world. Hydroelectric projects, while less common, provide consistent energy
supply, particularly in regions with abundant water resources.
3. Despite the advantages, renewable energy also faces challenges. Solar and wind energy are
intermittent, meaning they only produce power when the sun is shining or the windis blowing.
This variability requires the development of energy storage solutions, such as batteries, to
ensure a constant energy supply. Additionally, large-scale renewable energy projects can have
environmental impacts, such as habitat disruption or the displacement of local communities.
However, advances in technology and planning are helping to mitigate these issues.
4. Governments around the world are investing in renewable energy to meet their climate goals.
Many countries have implemented policies such as subsidies for renewable energy projects, tax
incentives for companies that use green energy, and mandates for reducingcarbon emissions.
These efforts are part of a global push to transition from fossil fuels to cleaner, more sustainable
energy sources, ultimately aiming to reduce the impacts ofclimate change.
5. The future of energy lies in the continued development of renewable technologies. As costs
decrease and efficiencies improve, renewable energy will play a central role in meeting the
world’s energy needs. The shift towards cleaner energy is not just a technological challenge, but
a societal one, requiring collaboration between governments, industries, and communities to
ensure a sustainable energy future for all.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
I. According to paragraph 1, why are renewable energy sources
considered important in combating climate change? 1
II. How does the author describe the technological advancements in renewable energy? 1
III. Read and complete the following sentence suitably: 1
The phrase “intermittent energy” in paragraph 3 refers to the fact that renewable energy sources
like solar and wind are not always available.
Choose the correct response from the two options to complete the sentence. Intermittent energy
sources are challenging because .
(A) they require energy storage solutions to ensure a stable power supply.
(B) they can only be used in certain parts of the world.

IV. Complete the following with ONE example: 1

One challenge faced by renewable energy sources is
V. Why does the writer emphasize government policies? Because 1
A. They reduce the cost of fossil fuels.
B. They help promote renewable energy development.
C. They allow companies to continue using non-renewable energy.
D. They increase competition in the energy market.

VI. Provide ONE textual evidence with reference to paragraph 4, to support the following: 1
Governments are actively investing in renewable energy to meet climate goals.

VII. In the line, ‘Renewable energy will play a central role in meeting the world’s energy needs’,
what does the phrase ‘central role’ suggest about the future of renewable energy? 2
VIII. Complete the analogy with ONE word: wind: turbines: solar: 1
(A) panels (B) wire (C) rays (D) energy
IX. Why is it fair to say that the statement ‘The future of energy lies in the continued
development of renewable technologies’ in paragraph 5 uses descriptive language? 1
A. It describes the current trends in the energy industry.
B. It highlights the importance of renewable energy in the future.
C. It explains the global energy market.
D. It focuses on fossil fuels.

X. Assess the potential challenges or benefits of increasing investment in renewable energy, as

suggested in paragraph 4? 2
2. Read the following carefully. 10
1. A truly representative democracy, seeks adequate representation of women in politics.
Though representative governments have increased across the world in the last few decades,
the participation of women has remained low. According to UN, as of September 2022, there
were 30 women serving as elected heads of state or of government in 28 countries (out of a
total of 193 UN member states). This is despite concerted efforts in recent times to promote
women’s empowerment and improve gender equality.
2. As of May 2022, the global average of female representation in national parliaments was 26.2
percent (see Table 1). America, Europe, and Sub- Saharan Africa have women’s representation
above the global average; and Asia, the Pacific region, and the Middle East and Northern Africa
(MENA) region, are below average. For India, women’s representation in the Lok Sabha (the
Lower House) has remained slightly below 15 percent.
Global Average of Women’s Representation in Parliament

3. India has a history of marginalisation and exploitation of women framed by patriarchal social
structure and mindsets. Beginning in the 19th century, social reform movements succeeded in
pushing for women’s well-being and empowerment. The Indian freedom movement, starting
with the swadeshi in Bengal (1905-08) also witnessed the impressive participation of women,
who organised political demonstrations and mobilised resources, as well as occupied leadership
positions in those movements.
4. After India attained independence, its Constitution guaranteed equal status for men and
women in all political, social and economic spheres. Part III of the Constitution guarantees the
fundamental rights of men and women. The Directive Principles of State Policy ensure
economic empowerment by providing for equal pay for equal work by both men and women,
humane conditions of work, and maternity relief.
5. In 1992, the 73rd and 74th amendments to the Constitution provided for reservation of one-
third of the total number of seats for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and municipal
bodies. The amendment intended to improve women’s participation in decision-making at the
grassroots. India has taken a number of steps towards women’s empowerment in other
domains, such as marriage and employment. For example, the Supreme Court has conferred
daughters the equal status of a coparcener in Hindu families, providing them inheritance rights.
It has also ruled that women officers in the army should be entitled to permanent commission
and command postings in all services.
6. Taking stock of the progress of changing status of women, it can be seen that the number of
women candidates fielded by major political parties in both the parliamentary and state
assembly elections remained fairly low till the early 1990s. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, of
the total of 8,049 candidates in the fray, less than 9 percent were women.
7. The organic shift to opening up spaces for women in Indian parliamentary politics has been
slow. Better educational opportunities for women, their financial stability, the relative erosion of
social prejudices, coupled with greater media awareness have compelled political parties to
create spaces for women’s participation. With the number of women voters increasing, political
parties have in recent years designed pro-women welfare policies seeking their electoral
support. The very latest development is that the Union government introduced a Bill to provide
one-third reservation to women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.
Answer the following questions, based on given passage:
I. On the basis of the given table, compare and analyse the participation of men versus women
in active politics. (Any two points) (Answer in 40 words) 2
II. One of the elements necessary for the functioning of a truly representative democracy is_.1
III. The proportion of men and women representatives in America, Europe and Sub-Saharan
African countries is________ 1
A. Men 50 %; Women 50 %
B. Men more than 26 %; women less than 26%
C. Men less than 26%; women more than 26%
D. Men more than 26%; Women also more than 26%

IV. Which of the following statements does NOT hold true about the status of Indian women at
the beginning of the 19th century? 1
A. Women broke the shackles of exploitation and became politically active.
B. Initiatives for social reforms for women were undertaken.
C. Women had the right to contest elections.
D. Women were in positions of decision-making in certain situations.

V. How would you justify the fact that India adopted a rather progressive doctrine to govern the
nation? 1
VI. The Supreme Court of India has played an active role in promoting gender equality in the
country. Provide one instance to support this point. 1
VII. Under which category can these two reforms be categorized? 1
(i) Women have the right to vote.
(ii) Equal pay for equal work by both men and women.
A. Political and Economic reforms
B. Economic and Social reforms
C. Social and Judicial reforms
D. Social and Political reforms

VIII. What makes it imperative for the political parties to design pro-women welfare policies? 2