IGNOU BPSE-145 Solved Question Paper PDF Download

IGNOU BPSE-145 Previous Year Solved Question Paper in Hindi

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Q1. Describe the ethnic profile of Assam.

Ans. Assam, often described as a ‘miniature India’, presents a complex mosaic of cultures, languages, religions, and ethnic groups. Its ethnic profile is the result of centuries of migration, assimilation, and co-existence, making it one of the most diverse states in India. The ethnic profile of Assam can be broadly categorised into the following groups: 1. Indigenous Assamese Speakers: This is a large and diverse group comprising various caste groups, such as the Assamese Brahmins, Kalitas, Ahoms, Koch-Rajbongshis , etc. They predominantly inhabit the Brahmaputra Valley. The Ahoms, who ruled Assam for nearly 600 years, played a significant role in shaping the state’s culture and identity. 2. Tribal Groups: Assam has a large tribal population, which is divided into plains and hills tribes.

• Bodos: The largest plains tribal group in Assam, concentrated mainly in the western and northern parts of the state. They have their own rich language and culture.
• Mishing: The second-largest plains tribal group, living mostly along the banks of the Brahmaputra river in Upper Assam.
• Karbi and Dimasa: These are major hill tribes, inhabiting the autonomous districts of Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao, respectively.
• Other tribes include the Rabha, Tiwa, Deori, and Sonowal-Kachari .

3. Bengali Speakers:

This is the largest linguistic minority group in Assam. It includes both

Bengali Hindus

and

Bengali Muslims

. Their migration has occurred at different points in time—some came during the British colonial period for administrative and professional purposes, while others arrived as refugees after the Partition and the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.

4. Tea Garden Tribes (Adivasis):

These are descendants of labourers brought by British planters from Central India (Chotanagpur Plateau) in the 19th century to work in the tea gardens. They now form an integral part of Assam’s population, though they maintain their distinct cultural identity and are often identified as ‘Tea-tribes’.

5. Other Communities:

Apart from these major groups, Assam is also home to other migrant communities like Nepalis, Marwaris, Sikhs, and Biharis, who have contributed to the state’s economy and society.

This

linguistic

(Indo-Aryan, Tibeto-Burman, Austro-Asiatic) and

religious

(Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and traditional faiths) diversity has often been a source of political and social tensions, especially over issues related to land, resources, and cultural identity.

Q2. Write a note on excluded and partially excluded areas.

Ans. ‘Excluded’ and ‘Partially Excluded’ Areas were an administrative classification in British India, established under the Government of India Act, 1935 . The primary objective of this system was to separate certain tribal-dominated regions from the full operation of normal provincial administration, in order to protect their unique socio-economic conditions and customs. The concept originated from a British policy that sought to protect aboriginal communities from exploitation from the outside world, particularly from moneylenders and land grabbers. Excluded Areas:

• These areas were placed completely outside the jurisdiction of the provincial legislature.
• Their administration was carried out directly by the Governor in his discretion, and the ministers of the province could not advise him.
• No act passed by the provincial legislature would apply to these areas unless specifically directed by the Governor.
• The aim was to provide maximum insulation for these areas. In Assam, the Naga Hills District, the Mizo Hills District and the North-East Frontier Tracts were classified as Excluded Areas.

Partially Excluded Areas:

• The Governor had a ‘special responsibility’ for these areas.
• Laws of the provincial legislature could apply here, but the Governor had the power to modify them or decide against their application.
• Provincial ministers could advise on the administration of these areas, but the final decision rested with the Governor.
• The level of insulation was less than that of the Excluded Areas. In Assam, the Mikir Hills (now Karbi Anglong) and the North Cachar Hills (now Dima Hasao) were designated as Partially Excluded Areas.

Objective and Criticism:

Officially, the policy aimed to save tribals from exploitation and preserve their traditional way of life. However, critics argue that it was part of a ‘divide and rule’ policy that politically isolated these communities from the national mainstream and hindered their integration.

Legacy:

After independence, the concept of Excluded and Partially Excluded Areas greatly influenced the framers of the Indian Constitution. Recognizing the special needs of these regions, the Constituent Assembly created the

Sixth Schedule

. The Sixth Schedule provides for the establishment of

Autonomous District Councils (ADCs)

in these erstwhile areas to grant legislative and administrative autonomy to tribal communities over their land, customs, and culture.

Q3. Discuss the challenges before the Autonomous District Councils.

Ans. The Autonomous District Councils (ADCs), established under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, are crucial institutions for self-governance and development in the tribal areas of Northeast India. Their objective is to protect the distinct identity, culture, and interests of the tribal communities. However, since their inception, these councils have been facing several serious challenges that limit their effectiveness. The major challenges before the ADCs are as follows: 1. Financial Dependence: This is the biggest obstacle for the ADCs. They are almost entirely dependent on grants from the state and central governments for their revenue. They have very limited powers to levy taxes and generate their own revenue. Funds are often delayed and inadequate, which paralyses development projects and administrative functions. 2. Jurisdictional Overlap and Conflict: There are frequent conflicts between the ADCs and the state government over powers and jurisdiction. Dual control over subjects like forests, mineral resources, and law and order creates confusion and conflict. State governments often encroach upon the legislative and executive powers of the ADCs, thereby weakening their autonomy. 3. Dual Administrative System: The co-existence of the District Council and the state’s general administrative machinery (like the Deputy Commissioner’s office) in the same area leads to confusion and a lack of coordination in administration. This results in delays and inefficiency in the implementation of policies. 4. Lack of Capacity and Expertise: Many ADCs suffer from a severe shortage of trained administrative and technical personnel to plan, implement, and effectively manage development projects and governance. This lack of capacity means they are often unable to properly utilise even the funds that are allocated. 5. Political Interference and Corruption: State-level politics heavily interferes in the functioning of the ADCs. Moreover, allegations of misuse of funds and corruption are common, which erodes public trust in these institutions and defeats their very purpose. 6. Unfulfilled Aspirations: For many communities, the autonomy granted by the Sixth Schedule has proven to be insufficient. They see it as inadequate to fulfill their political and economic aspirations. This has led to demands for more powers, direct funding from the Centre, or even separate statehood, as seen in the Bodoland movement. To address these challenges, there is an urgent need to empower the ADCs with greater financial and administrative powers, enhance their revenue sources, and clearly define their relationship with the state governments.

Q4. Describe the origin and nature of Bodo Movement in Assam.

Ans. The Bodo movement is one of the longest and most significant ethnic movements in post-independence Assam. It was led by the Bodo people, the largest plains tribe of Assam, to protect their distinct identity, culture, and political rights. Origin of the Movement: The roots of the Bodo movement can be traced through several phases: 1. Early Cultural-Literary Phase: The movement began in the early 20th century as a socio-cultural reform. The formation of the Bodo Sahitya Sabha in 1952 was a major turning point. Its main objective was to get the Bodo language its due place in education and administration, and to adopt the Devanagari script instead of the Roman script. This phase built a collective consciousness among the Bodo community. 2. Demand for Political Autonomy (1960s-70s): In 1967, the Plains Tribal Council of Assam (PTCA) was formed, which for the first time raised the demand for political autonomy. The PTCA demanded a separate autonomous region called ‘Udayachal’ within Assam. This movement was largely peaceful and based on constitutional methods. 3. Militant Phase and Demand for a Separate State (Post-1980s): In 1987, the All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU) , under the leadership of Upendranath Brahma, launched an aggressive movement with the slogan “Divide Assam Fifty-Fifty.” The demand now shifted from an autonomous region to a separate state of ‘Bodoland’. This was the most intense period of the movement, marked by mass demonstrations, bandhs, and rallies. Nature of the Movement: The nature of the Bodo movement changed over time:

• Evolution of Demands: The movement started with demands for linguistic and cultural protection, which later evolved into a demand for autonomy and finally, a separate state.
• Mixed Methods: The movement used both democratic and peaceful methods (like rallies, memorandums) as well as armed struggle . This period saw the rise of armed groups like the Bodo Security Force (BDSF), which later became the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), and the Bodo Liberation Tigers (BLT).
• Key Drivers: The main drivers behind the movement were economic backwardness, land alienation, political marginalization, and the fear of losing their distinct Bodo identity amidst the dominance of Assamese nationalism.

Outcome:

The long struggle resulted in three significant accords:

• 1993 Bodo Accord: This led to the formation of the Bodoland Autonomous Council (BAC), but it failed due to insufficient powers.
• 2003 Bodo Accord: Signed with the BLT, this accord created the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) under the Sixth Schedule with more powers.
• 2020 Bodo Accord: This was a comprehensive accord involving all factions of NDFB and ABSU, which upgraded the BTC to the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) and promised more legislative and executive powers, along with a large economic package.

Thus, the Bodo movement stands as a classic example of identity politics that eventually reached a resolution through negotiation and settlement.

Q5. Explain the political reorganization of North-east India.

Ans. The political map of North-east India has been dramatically redrawn since independence. The region, which initially consisted of the large state of Assam and a few princely states, was reorganized into several smaller states, largely based on ethnic identity and aspirations for self-governance. This reorganization reflects the unique demographic and political dynamics of the region. The political reorganization of the North-east can be understood in the following phases: 1. The Initial Landscape (1947-1960): At the time of independence, the region mainly comprised the vast State of Assam (which included the territories of almost all present-day states), the princely states of Manipur and Tripura (which later became Union Territories), and the centrally administered North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA) . 2. Creation of Nagaland (1963): The first major step in political reorganization was taken in response to the Naga movement. The Naga people were waging a violent insurgency for sovereignty. After long negotiations, the Naga Hills district of Assam and the Tuensang Area were merged to form Nagaland as the 16th state of India in 1963. It was the first state to be created on the basis of ethnic identity and set a precedent for other ethnic groups. 3. The North-Eastern Areas (Reorganisation) Act, 1971: This was the most significant milestone in the reorganization of the North-east. The Act, passed in 1971 and implemented on January 21, 1972, completely changed the political map of the region:

• Meghalaya: The Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo Hills districts of Assam were carved out to form the full-fledged state of Meghalaya.
• Manipur and Tripura: Both these Union Territories were elevated to the status of full states.
• Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh: The Mizo Hills district of Assam was made the Union Territory of Mizoram , and NEFA was renamed as the Union Territory of Arunachal Pradesh .

Along with this Act, the

North-Eastern Council (NEC)

was also established for the coordinated development of the region.

4. The Final Phase: Statehood for Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh (1987):

Following the signing of the historic Mizo Peace Accord in 1986 with the Mizo National Front (MNF), which ended two decades of insurgency,

Mizoram

was granted full statehood in February 1987. Almost simultaneously,

Arunachal Pradesh

was also elevated to a full state.

The Driving Forces Behind Reorganization:

• Ethnic Nationalism: The strong desire among various tribal groups to protect their distinct identity, language, culture, and land.
• Economic and Political Grievances: A sense of domination by the Assamese elite, neglect, and lack of development fuelled demands for separate administrative units.
• Security Concerns: The Indian state also used reorganization as a political tool to contain insurgency and manage the sensitive border areas.

Thus, the political reorganization of the North-east has been a continuous process of accommodating ethnic aspirations and bringing stability to the region.

Q6. Describe the nature of women’s movement in Nagaland.

Ans. The women’s movement in Nagaland is significantly different from feminist movements in other parts of India. It has primarily focused on community survival, peace-building, and social reform rather than on individual rights. Its nature is shaped by the complex interplay of traditional Naga society, decades of armed conflict, and the challenges of modernity. The key characteristics of the nature of the women’s movement in Nagaland are as follows: 1. Role as Peace-builders: The most prominent identity of the Naga women’s movement is as a peace movement . The Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA) , formed in 1984, is the most powerful example. With its motto, “Shed No More Blood,” the NMA played a critical role in mediating between the Indian security forces and Naga nationalist groups. They secured the release of hostages, advocated for ceasefires, and became a voice of non-violence in a violent society. 2. Agenda of Social Reform: Naga women’s groups have been at the forefront of campaigns against social evils like drug abuse and alcoholism, which became rampant during the years of conflict. They established detoxification centres and rehabilitation camps. Their role has been not just political, but also that of a moral guardian of society, trying to save the family and community from disintegration. 3. Conflict between Tradition and Modernity: This is a contradictory but crucial aspect of the movement. On one hand, Naga women are deeply embedded in traditional social structures and are considered custodians of their culture. On the other hand, they also challenge certain patriarchal norms. The clearest example of this is the issue of 33% reservation for women in Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).

• This issue has become a direct clash between the 74th Constitutional Amendment (which mandates the reservation) and Article 371A (which protects Naga customary laws).
• The dominant male-led tribal bodies (like the Naga Hoho) argue that political reservation for women is against Naga tradition and that Article 371A gives them the right to reject it.
• In contrast, some women’s groups and activists see it as a matter of gender equality and constitutional right.

This controversy shows that the Naga women’s movement is not monolithic. It is struggling to strike a delicate balance between tradition, community identity, and modern legal rights. It is not just a movement for women’s rights, but also a struggle for the survival of the Naga community in a changing world.

Q7. Discuss women’s movements in North-east India.

Ans. Women’s movements in North-east India are unique in their nature and priorities, which distinguish them from mainstream Indian feminist movements. Instead of being centered on issues of caste or class, these movements are predominantly shaped by issues of ethnic identity, armed conflict, human rights violations, and community welfare . The key features and examples of women’s movements in the North-east are as follows: 1. Peace-Building and Human Rights Protection: Decades of insurgency and state response in the region have brought women to the forefront of the struggle for peace and justice.

• Manipur’s Meira Paibis (Torch Bearers): These are grassroots women’s groups in Manipur who patrol their localities at night. Originally started as a social reform movement against alcoholism and drug abuse, the ‘Meira Paibis’ have now become a powerful symbol of resistance against human rights violations by security forces under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) . Their naked protest in 2004 against the alleged custodial killing of Thangjam Manorama is a world-renowned example of their courage and determination.
• Nagaland’s Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA): With its slogan “Shed No More Blood,” the NMA has acted as a peace emissary in the Naga conflict, attempting to build dialogue between the state and insurgent groups.

2. Social Reform and Anti-Liquor Movements:

Across the region, from Assam to Mizoram, women’s groups have viewed alcoholism and drug abuse as a serious threat to the family and society. Organizations like the

Mizo Hmeichhe Insuihkhawm Pawl (MHIP)

in Mizoram have successfully lobbied for and played a key role in enforcing prohibition.

3. Protection of Community Identity and Environment:

These movements are often linked to the protection of their ethnic community’s identity and resources. Women have often led movements against land alienation and environmental destruction caused by development projects, as it directly affects their livelihoods.

4. Struggle for Political Representation:

Despite being highly active in civil society, women’s representation in formal politics in the North-east is very low. The ongoing struggle for 33% reservation in Nagaland’s urban local bodies is a prime example of this challenge. It highlights the deep tension between traditional patriarchal structures and modern democratic rights.

In essence, women’s movements in North-east India are not confined to ‘women’s issues’ alone. They are an integral part of the larger struggle for the survival, dignity, and rights of their communities. They prioritize community welfare over individual liberty and act as pillars of moral force in conflict-ridden societies.

Q8. What is Assam Vision Document, 2025 ? Discuss with special reference to agricultural growth.

Ans. The Assam Vision Document, 2025 is a strategic plan formulated by the Government of Assam. Its main objective is to transform Assam into a high-performing, prosperous, and economically advanced state by the year 2025. The document presents a comprehensive roadmap to accelerate growth in key sectors, create employment opportunities, and improve the quality of life for its citizens. In this Vision Document, the agriculture sector has been given the highest priority, as Assam’s economy is primarily agrarian, with the majority of the state’s population dependent on it for their livelihood. The Vision Document with Special Reference to Agricultural Growth: The Assam Vision 2025 aims to transform traditional agriculture into a modern, sustainable, and profitable enterprise. Its key strategies for agricultural development are as follows: 1. Doubling Farmer’s Income: This is the central objective of the agricultural strategy. It is to be achieved by increasing productivity, crop diversification, and ensuring better price realization. 2. Crop Diversification: The document emphasizes reducing the dependence on the traditional monoculture of rice. Instead, there is a plan to encourage farmers to cultivate high-value crops like fruits, vegetables, spices (e.g., ginger, turmeric), and oilseeds. This will increase farmers’ income and reduce the risks associated with farming. 3. Promoting an “Evergreen Revolution”: This focuses on sustainable agricultural practices. It includes a major push for Organic Farming . The vision aims to make Assam a major hub for organic products, which can fetch a premium price in national and international markets. 4. Enhancing Irrigation Facilities: Recognizing that agriculture in Assam is largely rain-fed and also affected by floods, the document prioritizes the expansion of irrigation coverage. The goal is to enable multi-cropping throughout the year through schemes like Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY). 5. Strengthening Post-Harvest Infrastructure and Market Linkages: This includes the development of cold storages, warehouses, food processing units, and improving rural roads (Grameen Krishi Bazars) to connect farms to markets. The aim is to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure that farmers get a fair price for their produce. 6. Focus on Allied Sectors: The Vision Document also emphasizes the development of allied sectors like fisheries, animal husbandry, dairy, and sericulture to provide supplementary income to farmers. In conclusion, the Assam Vision Document 2025 provides an ambitious but comprehensive blueprint for agricultural transformation. Its success, however, will depend on effective implementation, overcoming challenges like floods, and ensuring timely access to credit and technology for small and marginal farmers.