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खण्ड – A / SECTION – A

Q1: Write short answers, with a sociological perspective, on the following questions in about 150 words each: 10×5=50

(a) Highlight the significant features of A. R. Desai’s ‘Dialectical Perspective’ to study Indian Society. 10 Marks
(b) “The decade of 1950s was the golden period of village studies in Indian Sociology. Explain the statement. 10 Marks
(c) Analyse the differences between the attributional and interactional approach in studying the caste system. 10 Marks
(d) Are Tradition and Modernity antithetical to each other? Comment. 10 Marks
(e) Discuss the main features of Land Reforms in post-independence India. 10 Marks

Q2. (a) Do you agree with the view of Andre Beteille that India’s villages are representative of Indian society’s basic civilizational values? Present a sociological overview. 20 Marks
(b) Elaborate the salient features and the role of middle class in India’s democracy and development. 20 Marks
(c) Analyse the role of market and modern forces in understanding the changing trends in marriage systems in India. 10 Marks

Q3. (a) Contextualize Louis Dumont’s concept of binary opposition’ with reference to caste system in India. 20 Marks
(b) Define the concepts of ‘Descent’ and ‘Alliance’. Differentiate between North Indian and South Indian Kinship systems with examples. 20 Marks
(c) Critically examine the concept of Sanskritization with suitable illustrations. 10 Marks

Q4. (a) Analyse the perspectives of Isolation, Assimilation and Integration in understanding the trajectories of Indian Tribal Development. 20 Marks
(b) Explain the implications and the impact of globalization in situating the changing agrarian class structure in India. 20 Marks
(c) Critique the victory narratives of Green Revolution in the context of Indian society. 10 Marks

खण्ड – B / SECTION – B

Q5. Write short answers, with a sociological perspective, on the following questions in about 150 words each: 10×5=50

(a) Citing some case studies, expand the concept of ‘Development-induced Displacement’. 10 Marks
(b) Examine the concept of ‘Cultural Pluralism’ in the context of India’s Unity in Diversity. 10 Marks
(c) Highlight the salient features of the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020. 10 Marks
(d) Analyse the sociological interconnections between Social Media and Mass Mobilization in India. 10 Marks
(e) Discuss the nature of regional variations in sex ratio in India, stating reasons thereof. 10 Marks

Q6. (a) How do you account for the increasing significance of religion in public and personal spheres in the context of secularization thesis in India? Explain. 20 Marks
(b) In the face of rising global climatic concerns, how do you contextualize the relevance of Chipko Movement and its Gandhian tone? Answer analytically. 20 Marks
(c) What actionable measures would you suggest to curb the recurrent child labour menace in India ? 10 Marks

Q7. (a) Do you think that the decades of Dalit political mobilizations and movements have helped in strengthening India’s democracy? Substantiate your arguments with facts. 20 Marks
(b) What is ‘reverse migration’ ? Discuss its features, causes and consequences in India. 20 Marks
(c) Discuss the phenomenon of rural-urban continuum with suitable examples. 10 Marks

Q8. (a) Explain the thematic linkages between ‘Patriarchy’ and ‘Honour killing’ in India, citing some recent cases. 20 Marks
(b) Discuss the challenges faced by the cooperative movements in India. Suggest measures to strengthen the movement at the grass-roots level. 20 Marks
(c) What is Ageing? Discuss the major problems of aged people in India. 10 Marks

Model Answer:

Ageing:

Ageing refers to the biological, psychological, and social changes individuals experience as they advance in years. It is an inevitable process that not only affects personal well-being but also has broader social implications. In India, the ageing population is growing due to increased life expectancy and declining fertility rates, leading to significant societal challenges.

Major problems faced by aged people in India include:

1. Economic Insecurity: A large number of elderly lack financial independence. With inadequate pension coverage and savings, many depend on their families. The breakdown of the joint family system, as observed by A.M. Shah, has weakened traditional support, increasing economic vulnerability.

2. Health Issues: Chronic ailments like diabetes, hypertension, and arthritis are prevalent. Access to affordable and specialized geriatric healthcare is limited, especially in rural areas. Mental health problems, including depression and dementia, are often neglected due to stigma and lack of awareness.

3. Social Isolation: Urbanization and migration of the younger workforce lead to loneliness among the elderly.

4. Elder Abuse: Instances of physical, emotional, and financial abuse are rising. Without strong legal protections, elderly individuals are susceptible to exploitation, sometimes within their own families.

5. Lack of Social Security: Government schemes like the National Social Assistance Programme have limited reach and efficacy. There is an absence of comprehensive policies addressing the diverse needs of the aged population.

6. Digital Exclusion: In an increasingly digital society, many elderly people lack digital literacy, hindering their access to information, services, and social connectivity.

Addressing these problems requires a multifaceted approach, including strengthening social security systems, improving healthcare infrastructure, and fostering societal values that respect and support the elderly.

Model Answer:

Cooperative Movements in India

The cooperative movement in India has been a crucial tool for promoting socio-economic development, especially in rural areas. It began during the colonial era as a means to combat rural indebtedness by pooling resources for mutual benefit. Despite its potential, the movement faces numerous challenges that hinder its effectiveness at the grass-roots level.

Challenges Faced by Cooperative Movements in India:

1. Structural and Operational Inefficiencies:
• Many cooperatives suffer from poor organizational structures.
• There is a lack of professional management, leading to operational inefficiencies.
• These issues result in failure to meet members’ needs effectively.

2. Political Interference and Bureaucratic Control:
• Excessive control by government bodies undermines cooperatives’ autonomy.
• Political interference often leads to decisions that serve political interests over members’ welfare.
• Example: Politicians manipulating cooperative elections.

3. Inadequate Capital Formation:
• Cooperatives have limited access to financial resources.
• Dependence on government funding can lead to financial instability and lack of sustainability.
• Example: Underfunded agricultural credit societies.

4. Poor Governance and Accountability:
• Lack of transparency and weak governance structures are common issues.
• Members often have little say in decision-making processes.
• Example: Misappropriation in sugar cooperatives.

5. Limited Access to Markets and Technology:
• Cooperatives often struggle to access wider markets.
• They fail to leverage technology effectively.
• Example: Handloom cooperatives missing out on online platforms.

Measures to Strengthen the Movement at the Grass-roots Level:

1. Enhancing Autonomy and Decentralization:
• Reduce government and political interference through policy reforms.
• Empower cooperatives to make decisions that best serve their members.
• Example: Amending the Cooperative Societies Act.

2. Professional Management and Capacity Building:
• Implement training programs to enhance skills of cooperative leaders and managers.
• Adopt professional management practices.
• Example: Provide management training for staff.

3. Strengthening Governance Structures:
• Implement transparent procedures and accountability mechanisms.
• Encourage democratic participation, aligning with Gandhian principles of self-governance.
• Example: Conduct regular audits and disclosures.

4. Financial Inclusion and Capital Access:
• Facilitate access to credit through microfinance.
• Partner with financial institutions to aid in capital formation.
• Example: Link cooperatives with NABARD.

5. Technological Adoption:
• Incorporate technology for better supply chain management and market access.
• Use digital platforms to connect cooperatives to larger markets.
• Example: Implement e-commerce solutions for cooperative products.

6. Policy Support and Legal Reforms:
• Strengthen legal frameworks to protect cooperatives’ interests.
• Ensure cooperatives operate in a conducive environment.
• Example: Implement the Model Cooperative Act.

Conclusion: Revitalizing cooperatives requires a multi-faceted approach empowering them operationally and structurally. This aligns with inclusive development goals and can uplift marginalized communities in India, following Gandhian principles of self-governance.

Model Answer:

Patriarchy and Honour Killing in India: Thematic Linkages

Patriarchy in India is a deeply rooted social system where men hold predominant power and authority over women in familial and societal contexts. Honor killings are an extreme manifestation of this patriarchal control, where individuals are murdered by family members for perceived transgressions against societal norms, particularly those related to marriage and sexuality.

Key thematic linkages include:

1. Control over female sexuality and choices:
– Patriarchy enforces strict codes of conduct for women, particularly concerning their sexuality and marriage choices.
– Uma Chakravarti’s concept of “Brahmanical patriarchy” explains how caste and gender intersect to control women’s bodies and behavior to maintain caste purity and family honor.
– When women defy these norms—by choosing their own partners, marrying outside their caste, or pursuing autonomy—they challenge the patriarchal order, prompting severe repercussions.

2. Reinforcement of patriarchal norms:
– Honor killings serve as a tool to reinforce patriarchal norms by punishing deviations.
– These killings are often justified as necessary to restore the family’s honor, which is perceived to have been tarnished by the individual’s actions.
– André Béteille’s work on kinship and social structure highlights how family and community pressure uphold traditional norms, sometimes leading to violence to enforce conformity.

3. Intersection of caste and patriarchy:
– The 2018 murder of Pranay Kumar in Telangana exemplifies how patriarchal and caste-based prejudices can lead to honor killings.
– Pranay, a Dalit man, was killed by hired assassins allegedly orchestrated by his wife’s father, who opposed their inter-caste marriage.
– This case illustrates how honor killings are used to prevent the dilution of caste purity and uphold male dominance in familial decisions.

4. Community institutions and patriarchal control:
– The 2010 Manoj-Babli case in Haryana involved a couple killed on the orders of a khap panchayat for marrying within the same gotra (clan), considered incestuous under traditional norms.
– This incident underscores how patriarchal structures leverage community institutions to enforce conformity and punish those who undermine established social codes.

In conclusion, the thematic linkage between patriarchy and honor killings in India is evident in how patriarchal systems enforce control and punish transgressions to maintain societal norms. Addressing this issue necessitates confronting patriarchal attitudes and empowering individuals, particularly women, to make autonomous choices without fear of retribution.

Model Answer:

Rural-Urban Continuum Phenomenon

The rural-urban continuum, introduced by Robert Redfield in 1930, refers to the gradual blending and interaction between rural and urban areas. This concept acknowledges that there is rarely a clear boundary between rural and urban spaces, instead existing as a spectrum where characteristics of rural and urban life intermingle.

Characteristics and Dynamics:

• Cultural and Social Exchange: Urban cultural traits, such as fashion trends and modern ideologies, often permeate rural communities through mass media and improved communication networks.

• Economic Interdependence: Urban centers drive agricultural commercialization by providing markets for rural produce and supplying technology. Rural areas contribute labor and resources to urban economies.

• Social Structures and Lifestyles: The traditional distinction between rural (close-knit communities) and urban (individualism) is increasingly blurred as urban lifestyles penetrate rural areas.

• Migration and Mobility: People move to cities for better opportunities, often maintaining ties with their rural origins, contributing to the blending of rural and urban characteristics.

• Urban Villages and Rural Pockets: “Urban villages” are rural-like communities within urban settings, while “rural pockets” demonstrate the coexistence of rural elements in urban environments.

Examples from India:

• Urban-Rural Blend: The spread of education and mass communication has led to the adoption of urban lifestyles in rural areas, while cities like Mumbai have areas that retain rural characteristics.

• Peri-urban Development: The National Capital Region (NCR) around Delhi exemplifies the rural-urban continuum. Areas like Gurgaon and Noida have transformed from rural landscapes to bustling urban centers, creating a mix of modern infrastructure and remnants of rural life. These peri-urban zones showcase the gradual transition from rural to urban, with agricultural lands coexisting alongside high-rise buildings and tech parks.

In conclusion, the rural-urban continuum reflects the dynamic interplay between rural and urban areas, characterized by cultural exchange, economic interdependence, and social transformation. This continuum challenges the traditional dichotomy between rural and urban life, highlighting the complexity of modern societies.

Model Answer:

Reverse Migration Meaning

Reverse migration, also known as return migration, refers to the phenomenon where migrants return to their place of origin after having migrated to another place for a certain period. It’s a common occurrence worldwide, but it has gained significant attention in India due to the large-scale reverse migration prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Features of Reverse Migration:

• Temporary Nature: Reverse migration is often temporary, with migrants returning to their home regions during periods of economic downturn or crisis and then re-migrating when conditions improve. (Example: Seasonal agricultural workers)
• Skilled Labor: Reverse migration often involves skilled laborers who have gained skills and experience in their host countries and bring these back to their home countries. (Example: Tech professionals returning home)
• Remittances: Reverse migrants often continue to send remittances to their families in their host countries, contributing to the economy of those countries. (Example: Overseas workers supporting families)
• Urban to Rural: In the India, reverse migration often involves movement from urban to rural areas. (Example: City workers returning village)

Causes of Reverse Migration:

• Economic Factors: Economic downturns or lack of job opportunities in host regions can prompt reverse migration. The COVID-19 pandemic, for example, led to widespread job losses, prompting many migrants to return to their home regions.
• Social Factors: Migrants may also return home due to social factors like family ties, cultural connections, or a desire to retire in their home country. (Example: Retirees returning to roots)
• Political Factors: Political instability or changes in immigration policies can also lead to reverse migration. (Example: Brexit-induced EU worker exodus)

Consequences of Reverse Migration:

• Economic Impact: Reverse migration can have a significant economic impact. It can lead to labor shortages in host regions and an oversupply of labor in home regions, potentially driving down wages. (Example: Construction sector labor gaps)
• Social Impact: Reverse migration can also have social impacts, such as changes in family structures and increased pressure on social services in home regions. (Example: Overcrowded rural healthcare facilities)
• Development Impact: On a positive note, reverse migration can contribute to development in home regions, as returning migrants bring skills, experience, and sometimes capital. (Example: Returnee-led rural startups)

Example of Reverse Migration in India:

A large-scale example of reverse migration in India occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the nationwide lockdown, millions of migrant workers found themselves without work and means to survive in the cities. Consequently, they embarked on long journeys back to their home villages. This reverse migration posed significant challenges, including the risk of spreading the virus in rural areas, the strain on rural economies, and the potential disruption of urban economies due to labor shortages.

Conclusion:

Reverse migration is a complex phenomenon with significant economic, social, and development implications. It requires careful management and policy responses to mitigate its negative impacts and harness its potential benefits. In the Indian context, it highlights the need for stronger social protection for migrant workers and more balanced regional development to reduce the pressures for migration.

Model Answer:

How Dalit Political Mobilizations and Movements Have Strengthened India’s Democracy

Dalit political mobilizations and movements have played a pivotal role in strengthening India’s democracy over the decades. These movements have not only empowered Dalits but have also enriched the democratic fabric of the nation by advocating for equality, social justice, and human rights. Here are several ways in which these movements have contributed to India’s democratic development:

Empowerment and Political Participation:

• Dalit mobilization has significantly increased political participation among Dalits, providing them with a platform to voice their concerns and influence policy-making.
• The formation of political parties like the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) by Kanshi Ram and the leadership of figures like Mayawati have been instrumental in this regard.

Constitutional Safeguards and Legal Reforms:

• The efforts of leaders like B.R. Ambedkar, who played a crucial role in drafting the Indian Constitution, ensured legal safeguards against discrimination.
• This includes the abolition of untouchability and the provision of reservations in education and employment, promoting social justice and equality.
• Andre Betielle notes that these constitutional protections have reduced the practice of untouchability.

Social Movements and Awareness:

• Movements such as the Dalit Panthers and the Dalit Women’s Movement have raised awareness about caste-based discrimination and fought for Dalit rights.
• Gail Omvedt emphasizes the multidimensional nature of these movements, which address economic, social, and cultural discrimination, contributing to a more inclusive society.

The mobilization has provided Dalits with the means to resist oppression and assert their rights, challenging the status quo and pushing for changes aligned with democratic principles.

Cultural and Ideological Impact:

• Dalit mobilization has challenged traditional caste hierarchies and promoted equality, fundamental to democratic values.
• S.C. Dube argues that Dalit consciousness is a manifestation of the search for modernization, challenging orthodox Brahmanism and Hindu values.
• This shift has fostered a more egalitarian society and introduced diverse ideologies into the political discourse, enriching democratic debate.

Additional Contributions:
• Yogendra Singh highlights how Dalit mobilization exemplifies the breaking of caste barriers, driving Indian society towards modernization and aligning with democratic ideals.
• Ambedkar’s emphasis on education as a means of liberation has led to increased educational opportunities for Dalits, contributing to their socio-economic upliftment.
• Dalit movements have successfully organized at the grassroots level, fostering community solidarity and collective action, enhancing democratic participation from the ground up.

In conclusion, Dalit political mobilizations and movements have significantly strengthened India’s democracy by promoting ideological diversity, modernization, cultural identity, educational empowerment, international solidarity, legal reforms, grassroots mobilization, and gender equality. These efforts have collectively fostered a more inclusive and equitable democratic society.

Model Answer:

Curbing Child Labour in India

Child labor remains a persistent challenge in India, rooted in poverty, lack of education, and socio-economic disparities. To address this issue effectively, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Here are key strategies to curb child labor in India:

1. Strengthen Legislation and Enforcement:
– Enhance the implementation of existing laws like the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, to cover more sectors, especially the informal and unorganized sectors where most child laborers are employed.
– Increase penalties for violations and ensure strict enforcement to deter employers from hiring children.

2. Improve Adult Employment and Wages:
– Address the root causes of child labor by improving employment opportunities and wage rates for adults, particularly women, as higher wages for adults can reduce the economic necessity of child labor.
– Implement skill development programs for adults to increase their employability and income potential.

3. Promote Education:
– Ensure free and compulsory education for all children up to 14 years of age, as mandated by the Constitution, to reduce the opportunity cost for parents who might otherwise rely on their children’s income.
– Provide incentives for families to send their children to school, such as scholarships, free meals, and transportation.

4. Raise Awareness and Community Engagement:
– Conduct awareness campaigns to educate communities about the negative impacts of child labor and the importance of education.
– Engage local communities and NGOs in monitoring and reporting instances of child labor.

5. Support Vulnerable Families:
– Implement social welfare programs to support families in extreme poverty, reducing their reliance on income from child labor.
– Provide financial assistance or subsidies to families to alleviate economic pressures that lead to child labor.

6. Focus on Rural Areas:
– Target interventions in rural areas where child labor is more prevalent, particularly in agriculture and home-based industries.
– Develop rural infrastructure and services to create alternative livelihoods and reduce dependency on child labor.

By addressing these areas, India can make significant progress in reducing child labor and ensuring a better future for its children.

Model Answer:

Chipko Movement’s Relevance in the Face of Global Climatic Concerns

The Chipko Movement, rooted in Gandhian philosophy, offers valuable insights for addressing today’s global climatic concerns. Its principles of non-violent resistance, community involvement, and ecological awareness remain highly relevant in the context of modern environmental challenges.

1. Gandhian Non-Violent Resistance
Embodying Satyagraha and Ahimsa, Chipko demonstrates the effectiveness of peaceful protest in environmental advocacy. This approach resonates with modern climate activism, providing a powerful alternative to confrontational methods and inspiring global movements.

2. Grassroots Mobilization
Chipko’s success through community participation, especially empowering marginalized groups, aligns with current climate solutions emphasizing local strategies. This grassroots approach is crucial for implementing effective climate adaptation measures and ensuring community-led conservation efforts.

3. Ecological Awareness
The movement highlighted forests’ ecological importance, advocating for sustainable management. These principles are vital in addressing deforestation and climate change, emphasizing the role of forests in carbon sequestration, biodiversity preservation, and maintaining ecological balance.

4. Environmental Justice
Chipko addressed the intersection of environmental degradation and social injustice, a concept increasingly relevant as climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable communities. This perspective informs current debates on climate equity and fair resource distribution.

5. Gender Equity in Conservation
Women’s leadership in Chipko challenged traditional roles, aligning with modern approaches recognizing women as key agents in sustainable practices and climate resilience. This aspect highlights the importance of inclusive environmental stewardship.

6. Holistic Development Vision
Promoting a balance between economic needs and ecological sustainability, Chipko’s approach mirrors current sustainable development and circular economy concepts. It emphasizes the need for development models that prioritize long-term environmental health.

7. Policy Influence
The movement’s success in shaping national legislation demonstrates how grassroots activism can influence environmental protection frameworks, informing current efforts to impact global climate policies and international agreements.

8. Global Inspiration
Chipko’s principles have inspired international environmental initiatives, highlighting the connection between local actions and global outcomes. Its methods continue to influence global climate movements, emphasizing collective, non-violent action and the power of community-driven change.

Conclusion:
Chipko’s Gandhian approach offers a relevant framework for addressing climate challenges through peaceful activism, community engagement, and sustainable practices, inspiring effective global environmental stewardship in the face of escalating climatic concerns.

Model Answer:

Religion’s Increasing Significance in India’s Public and Personal Spheres

The increasing significance of religion in public and personal spheres in India, despite the secularization thesis, presents a complex phenomenon deeply rooted in the country’s unique historical, cultural, and political landscape. This trend challenges conventional understanding of modernization and secularization as linear processes, highlighting the intricate interplay between tradition and modernity in Indian society.

1. Limitations of Western Secularization Model:
– T.N. Madan and Ashis Nandy argue that the Western secularization model overlooks India’s distinct socio-cultural landscape.
– In India, religion is deeply intertwined with social identity, community life, and cultural expression.
– The secularization thesis, rooted in European experience, fails to account for India’s unique religious-social dynamics.

2. Historical and Cultural Continuity:
– India lacks a historical equivalent to the European Renaissance or Reformation.
– M.N. Srinivas’s concept of Sanskritization explains how religion remains a vehicle for social mobility among lower castes.
– Religious festivals, rituals, and pilgrimages continue to hold significant cultural importance.

3. Political Mobilization and Identity Politics:
– The rise of Hindu nationalism has brought religion to the forefront of politics.
– Political parties leverage religious identities for support, making religion pivotal in elections and policy-making.
– Ashis Nandy’s concept of “religious ethnicity” explains religion as a primary identity marker in response to perceived cultural threats.

4. Response to Modernization and Globalization:
– Rapid socio-economic changes create feelings of uncertainty and alienation.
– Yogendra Singh observes that individuals turn to religion for security, continuity, and identity during such times.
– Religion provides a sense of stability amidst rapid social change.

5. Role of Media and Technology:
– Proliferation of religious content through various media platforms increases religion’s visibility.
– Dedicated religious channels and online platforms allow religious leaders to reach wider audiences.
– Media coverage often sensationalizes religious issues, bringing them into public discourse.

6. Failures of Secular Institutions:
– Widespread corruption and inefficiency in secular institutions have eroded public trust.
– Religious organizations often fill gaps in social services, providing education, healthcare, and aid.

7. Personal Quest for Meaning and Identity:
– Urban settings often lead to anonymity and fragmented social networks.
– Many educated individuals seek spiritual guidance and community through religion.
– Popularity of spiritual leaders like Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and Sadhguru among young professionals reflects this trend.

8. Communalism and Social Conflicts:
– Communal tensions and conflicts have heightened religious consciousness.
– Events like the Gujarat riots and debates over cow protection have intensified religious identities.
– Such conflicts often lead to increased religiosity as communities rally around shared beliefs for solidarity.

Conclusion: India’s religious resurgence challenges universal secularization theories, demonstrating that modernization can coexist with or even enhance religious expression in complex societies, necessitating a nuanced understanding of secularism in diverse cultural contexts.