Social Science ยท History
Indian Social Structure
1,850 Questions
Prepare for competitive exams by answering questions on the diverse Indian social structure. Topics include the historical caste system, Vedic political units, and various social reform movements. This hub offers valuable insights into the sociological framework of India.
Caste system dynamicsVedic societySocial reform movementsIndian family structure
Indian Social Structure Questions
What was the name of the social and political system that existed in ancient India?
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Indus Valley Civilization
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Vedic Period
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Maurya Empire
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Gupta Empire
A
Correct answer
Explanation
The Indus Valley Civilization was one of the earliest civilizations in the world, and it flourished in the Indus River Valley from around 2500 to 1900 BCE.
Which caste groups are typically underrepresented in Indian films?
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Scheduled Castes
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Scheduled Tribes
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Other Backward Classes
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All of the above.
D
Correct answer
Explanation
Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes are typically underrepresented in Indian films. This is due to various factors, including discrimination, lack of access to resources and opportunities, and stereotypes.
Which caste group has traditionally dominated powerlifting in India?
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Brahmins
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Kshatriyas
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Vaishyas
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Shudras
B
Correct answer
Explanation
The Kshatriyas, traditionally associated with warriorhood and physical prowess, have historically been the dominant caste group in powerlifting in India.
How has caste influenced the access to resources and opportunities for powerlifters in India?
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Caste-based discrimination limits access to gyms and training facilities.
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Caste affects the availability of financial support for powerlifting.
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Caste influences the selection of athletes for national and international competitions.
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All of the above
D
Correct answer
Explanation
Caste-based discrimination can manifest in various ways, limiting access to resources, opportunities, and support for powerlifters from marginalized caste groups.
How has the Indian philosophy of race influenced Indian society?
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It has led to the caste system
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It has led to the practice of untouchability
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It has led to the belief in racial superiority
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It has led to the belief in racial equality
D
Correct answer
Explanation
The Indian philosophy of race has led to the belief in racial equality, which has been a major influence on Indian society.
In a joint family system, what is the term used for the head of the household?
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Karta
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Mukhiya
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Sarpanch
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Panchayat
A
Correct answer
Explanation
Karta is the Hindi word for the head of a joint family household.
What is the main cause of communalism in India?
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Economic inequality.
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Religious differences.
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Political competition.
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Cultural diversity.
B
Correct answer
Explanation
Communalism in India is primarily driven by religious differences and tensions between different religious communities.
Which of the following is NOT a common stereotype associated with the portrayal of lower-class athletes in Indian sports media?
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Lack of education
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Aggressive and unruly behavior
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Natural athletic ability
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Financial struggles
C
Correct answer
Explanation
While lower-class athletes are often portrayed as lacking education and financial resources, they are typically not depicted as having natural athletic ability.
Which of the following is a type of marriage in which a man marries a woman from a different caste or social group?
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Endogamy
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Exogamy
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Polygamy
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Monogamy
B
Correct answer
Explanation
Exogamy refers to a type of marriage in which a man marries a woman from a different caste or social group.
What is the primary focus of A.K. Saran's work on Indian anthropology?
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Urban anthropology
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Economic anthropology
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Political anthropology
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Ecological anthropology
A
Correct answer
Explanation
A.K. Saran's work primarily centers around urban anthropology, exploring the social and cultural dynamics of urban life in India.
Which Indian anthropologist conducted extensive research on the tribal communities of Central India?
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Verrier Elwin
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G.S. Ghurye
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D.P. Mukerji
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Radhakamal Mukerjee
A
Correct answer
Explanation
Verrier Elwin, an English anthropologist, conducted extensive research on the tribal communities of Central India, documenting their customs, traditions, and beliefs.
What is the main argument of G.S. Ghurye's book 'Caste and Race in India'?
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Caste is a unique Indian phenomenon
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Caste is a form of social stratification
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Caste is a product of Aryan-Dravidian conflict
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Caste is a result of economic inequality
A
Correct answer
Explanation
In his book 'Caste and Race in India,' G.S. Ghurye argues that caste is a unique Indian phenomenon that cannot be compared to any other form of social stratification found in other societies.
What is the main argument of Edmund Leach's book 'Pul Eliya: A Village in Ceylon'?
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Caste is a unique Indian phenomenon
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Caste is a form of social stratification
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Caste is a product of Aryan-Dravidian conflict
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Caste is a result of economic inequality
C
Correct answer
Explanation
In his book 'Pul Eliya: A Village in Ceylon,' Edmund Leach argues that caste in Sri Lanka is a product of the historical conflict between Aryan and Dravidian speakers.
What is the central theme of Radhakamal Mukerjee's book 'The Social Structure of Hindu Society'?
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Caste and social stratification
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Economic development and modernization
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Political power and leadership
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Religious beliefs and practices
A
Correct answer
Explanation
Radhakamal Mukerjee's book 'The Social Structure of Hindu Society' primarily focuses on caste and social stratification, examining the intricate relationships and hierarchies within Hindu society.
Which Indian anthropologist is known for his work on the concept of 'Tribe-Caste Continuum'?
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G.S. Ghurye
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D.P. Mukerji
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M.N. Srinivas
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Radhakamal Mukerjee
A
Correct answer
Explanation
G.S. Ghurye introduced the concept of 'Tribe-Caste Continuum,' which suggests that there is a gradual transition from tribal societies to caste-based societies in India.