GENERAL STUDIES – I
HISTORY, GEOGRAPHY AND SOCIETY
Section- 1: HISTORY
1.1 History of the world : Events from 18th century; industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, political philosophies like Communism, Capitalism, Socialism etc. -their forms and effect on society.
1.2 Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
1.3 Indian Culture from the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities and Modern Indian history issues.
1.4 Socio-religious reform movements with special reference to Punjab.
1.5 The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country with special reference to Punjab.
1.6 Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country.
1.7. 1 Ranjit Singh’s rise to power, civil and military administration History of Punjab: and relations with the British
1.7. 2 Annexation of Punjab with special reference to the causes and consequences of the Anglo-Sikh wars.
Section-2: GEOGRAPHY
2.1 Salient features of world’s physical geography. Distribution of key natural resources across the world Physical Geography: (including South Asia and the Indian subcontinent); factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India)
2.2 Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location– changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.
2.3. 1 Physiographic details of Punjab; Geomorphic features of Geography of Punjab Punjab, Punjab’s strategic location with reference to International Border;
2.3. 2 Crops of Punjab; Modern concepts of Farming; Problems faced by agriculturists/ Issues in Agriculture: Depletion of ground water, etc;
Section-3: SOCIETY
3.1 Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.
3.2 Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies
3.3 Effects of globalization on Indian society
3.4 Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism
3.5 Ethics and Society:Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships.
3. 6 Human Values – Role of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating values; lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders and reformers- Gautam Buddha, Mahavira, Kabir, Guru Nanak; Swami Vivekananda, Jyotibha Phule, Ishwar Chandra Vidya Sagar and Mahatma Gandhi.
3.7 Vulnerable sections of the population – Welfare schemes by the Centre and State of Punjab and their performance; Mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for their protection and betterment.
3.8 Issues relating to development and management of Social Health, Education, Human Resources; Issues relating to Poverty and Malnutrition.
Faqs on General Studies Paper 1 HISTORY, GEOGRAPHY AND SOCIETY of Punjab
What are the major historical events that shaped Punjab’s identity?
The major historical events include the Indus Valley Civilization, the arrival of Aryans, the rise of Sikhism, the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Anglo-Sikh Wars, the annexation of Punjab by the British, the Indian independence movement, the Partition of India, and the Green Revolution.
What is the significance of Sikhism in Punjab’s history?
Sikhism, founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the 15th century, played a pivotal role in shaping Punjab’s cultural and religious identity. The Sikh Gurus and their teachings emphasized social equality, justice, and resistance against oppression, which resonated deeply with the people of Punjab.
How did the Partition of India impact Punjab?
The Partition of India in 1947 led to the division of Punjab based on religious lines, resulting in widespread violence, displacement, and loss of life. The event left a lasting impact on the social and political fabric of Punjab.
What are the main geographical features of Punjab?
Punjab is primarily a flat alluvial plain formed by the Indus River and its tributaries. The Shivalik Hills in the northeastern part of the state are the only significant hilly terrain. The region experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cool winters.
What are the major rivers in Punjab?
The major rivers flowing through Punjab are the Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi, all part of the Indus River system. These rivers play a crucial role in agriculture and irrigation.
How has the Green Revolution impacted Punjab’s geography?
The Green Revolution led to the extensive use of fertilizers and pesticides, which have impacted soil quality and water resources in Punjab. Additionally, the increased demand for irrigation has resulted in over-exploitation of groundwater, leading to a decline in the water table.
What are the main cultural and social characteristics of Punjab?
Punjabi culture is known for its vibrancy, warmth, and hospitality. The people of Punjab are known for their strong family ties, community values, and love for music, dance, and food. Bhangra and Giddha are popular folk dances, while Punjabi cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and variety.
What are the main challenges faced by society in Punjab?
Some of the challenges include drug abuse, unemployment, farmer indebtedness, and gender inequality. The state is also grappling with issues like environmental degradation, urbanization, and the impact of the Green Revolution on agriculture.
How is the Punjab government addressing these social issues?
The government is implementing various schemes and programs to address social issues. These include initiatives for drug de-addiction, skill development, women empowerment, and sustainable agriculture.