HS Final Examination 2025
Subject: Swadesh Adhyayan
Full Marks: 80 Pass Marks: 24
(Part–I = 40 Part–II = 40)
Figures in the margin indicate full marks for the questions.
Part One: Geography
Question 1: Multiple Choice Questions (Choose the correct answer – any four)
A. Which state of the following is out of “Satbhanee”?
i) Manipur ii) Tripura iii) Mizoram iv) Sikkim
Answer: Sikkim
B. In which year was the first census conducted in Assam?
Answer: The first census in Assam was conducted in 1872.
C. In which district of Assam is the Nameri National Park located?
Answer: Nameri National Park is located in Sonitpur district.
D. In which year the traces of crude oil was found in Assam?
Answer: The traces of crude oil were found in Assam in 1889.
E. In which place of Assam coal (black diamond) was discovered first?
(i) Makum (ii) Margherita (iii) Naharkatiya (iv) Silbheta
Answer: Makum
Question 2: Short Answer Questions (2 marks)
A. Name the two foreign countries that share boundaries with Assam.
Answer: The two foreign countries that share boundaries with Assam are Bhutan and Bangladesh.
B. Which two places in India were connected by the first railway line?
Answer: The first railway line in India connected Mumbai and Thane.
C. Write the names of two places where limestone is found in Karbi Anglong district.
Answer: Limestone is found in Dillai and Koilajan areas of Karbi Anglong district.
D. Mention the two main projections used for drawing maps.
Answer: The two main projections used for drawing maps are Cylindrical projection and Conical projection.
Question 3: Short Answer Questions (Answer briefly – any two) (3 marks)
A. Write the names of three hilly districts of Assam.
Answer: The three hilly districts of Assam are Karbi Anglong, West Karbi Anglong, and Dima Hasao.
B. Write the names of three wildlife sanctuaries in Assam.
Answer: Three wildlife sanctuaries in Assam are Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary, and Orang Wildlife Sanctuary.
C. Mention three major problems faced by workers in the brass and bell metal industry of Assam.
Answer:
Low wages and irregular income.
Lack of modern tools and technology.
Difficulty in getting raw materials and proper marketing.
D. What are the three types of map scales?
Answer: The three types of map scales are Verbal scale, Graphic (or Linear) scale, and Representative Fraction (R.F.) scale.
Question 4: Long Answer Questions (Answer any four) (6 marks each)
A. Write a note on the quality and distribution of alluvial soil in Assam.
Answer:
Alluvial soil is the most important and widespread soil type found in Assam. It is formed by the deposition of silt, clay, and sand carried by the rivers like the Brahmaputra and the Barak and their tributaries. This soil is light in texture, rich in potash, lime, and organic matter, and has good moisture-retaining capacity. Because of its high fertility, it is ideal for cultivation of rice, jute, sugarcane, mustard, and vegetables.
The alluvial soil of Assam is mainly distributed in the Brahmaputra Valley and the Barak Valley. In the upper Assam plains, it is newer and more fertile, while in lower Assam, the soil is older and sometimes less productive due to repeated floods and siltation. The soil is renewed every year by river floods, making it one of the most productive soils in India. Therefore, the alluvial soil plays a crucial role in sustaining agriculture and supporting the economy of Assam.
B. Explain the problems and prospects of biodiversity in Assam.
Answer: Assam is one of the richest biodiversity zones in India, home to rare and endangered species like the one-horned rhinoceros, golden langur, and Bengal florican. The state has many forests, wetlands, and national parks which support a wide variety of plants and animals. However, this rich biodiversity faces several serious problems.
The main problems include deforestation for agriculture and settlement, illegal hunting and poaching, pollution, floods, and climate change. Rapid urbanization and population growth have also led to habitat loss. These activities disturb the balance of nature and threaten many species with extinction.
Despite these challenges, Assam has good prospects for biodiversity conservation. The presence of protected areas like Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park, Orang, and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuaries offers great opportunities for preservation. Government initiatives, environmental laws, and awareness among people are helping in conservation. Eco-tourism and sustainable forest management can further promote biodiversity protection in Assam.
C. State the main reasons why Assam is industrially backward compared to other Indian states.
Answer: The following are the main reasons why Assam is industrially backward compared to other Indian states:
Poor transport and communication: Many parts of Assam are remote and not well-connected, making the movement of goods and raw materials expensive and difficult.
Lack of industrial infrastructure: The state faces shortages of power supply, storage facilities, and skilled manpower needed for industrial growth.
Frequent floods and erosion: Natural disasters damage property, disrupt production, and discourage new industrial investment.
Geographical isolation: Assam’s distance from major Indian markets increases transport costs and reduces its industrial competitiveness.
Political instability and insurgency: Past disturbances have created an unfavourable environment for business and investors.
Limited capital and entrepreneurship: There is a lack of local investment, business initiative, and risk-taking ability among entrepreneurs.
Dependence on agriculture: A large section of the population depends on agriculture, resulting in limited industrial participation.
Lack of government support and incentives: Insufficient industrial policies and financial aid have slowed down industrial development.
To overcome these issues, Assam needs better infrastructure, skilled manpower, industrial incentives, and stable governance to attract investors and promote balanced economic growth.
D. Explain the importance of water transport in Assam.
Answer: The following are the main points showing the importance of water transport in Assam:
Natural waterways: Assam has large rivers like the Brahmaputra and the Barak which provide natural routes for transport.
Low cost: It is cheaper compared to road and rail transport and helps save fuel.
Connectivity: It connects remote and rural areas where road communication is poor.
Transport of goods: It is useful for carrying bulky goods like coal, timber, tea, and oil.
National Waterway No. 2: The Brahmaputra River is part of this national waterway, connecting Assam with Bangladesh and other parts of India.
Supports trade: It promotes trade and economic development by linking markets and industries.
Tourism: River cruises and ferry services help promote tourism in the state.
Flood-time utility: During floods, when roads are damaged, it serves as an important means of movement and transport.
Economic importance: Water transport plays a major role in Assam’s communication system, trade, and regional integration.
E. What is pollution? Describe the main types and causes of pollution.
Answer: Pollution is the process by which the natural environment becomes contaminated and harmful to living beings. It occurs when unwanted substances are released into air, water, or soil in large amounts. Pollution affects health, damages ecosystems, and leads to climate change.
The main types of pollution are:
Air Pollution: Caused by smoke and harmful gases from vehicles, factories, and burning of fossil fuels. It leads to breathing problems and global warming.
Water Pollution: Occurs when sewage, chemicals, and waste materials are dumped into rivers, lakes, and ponds. It makes water unsafe for drinking and harms aquatic life.
Soil Pollution: Caused by excessive use of pesticides, plastic waste, and industrial dumping. It reduces soil fertility and affects crops.
Noise Pollution: Created by loudspeakers, traffic, and industrial machines, causing stress and hearing problems.
The main causes of pollution are rapid industrialization, urbanization, deforestation, and careless human activities. To control pollution, proper waste management, planting of trees, use of clean energy, and strict environmental laws are necessary.
F. What is biodiversity? Explain its main divisions with examples.
Answer: Biodiversity means the variety of all living organisms—plants, animals, and microorganisms—found on Earth. It includes the diversity within species, between species, and among ecosystems. Biodiversity is very important because it maintains ecological balance, provides food and medicines, and supports human survival.
The main divisions of biodiversity are:
Genetic Diversity: It refers to the variation of genes within a species. For example, different varieties of rice, mango, or tea plants show genetic diversity.
Species Diversity: It means the variety of different species within an area. For example, Assam has species like elephants, tigers, rhinos, and golden langurs.
Ecosystem Diversity: It means the diversity of different habitats or ecosystems such as forests, grasslands, wetlands, and rivers found in Assam.
Biodiversity makes the environment rich and stable. It is essential to conserve biodiversity through forest protection, wildlife conservation, and pollution control to ensure a sustainable future.
G. Why is the Brahmaputra River called the lifeline of Assam (or North-East India)?
Answer: The Brahmaputra River is called the lifeline of Assam because it supports almost every aspect of life in the state. It flows through the heart of Assam, providing fertile soil, water, fish, and means of transport. The river’s annual floods deposit rich alluvial soil that makes the plains suitable for agriculture, especially rice and jute cultivation.
The Brahmaputra is also a source of fish, which provides food and income to many people. Its water is used for irrigation, drinking, and hydropower generation. The river serves as an important waterway that connects different parts of Assam and helps in trade and transportation.
Besides economic benefits, the Brahmaputra supports the ecosystem and biodiversity of Assam. Many forests, wetlands, and wildlife habitats depend on it. It also holds cultural and religious importance for the people. Though it causes floods during the rainy season, its overall contribution to agriculture, communication, economy, and culture makes it truly the lifeline of Assam and the entire North-East India.
Part Two: History
Question 5: Multiple Choice Questions (Choose the correct answer – any four)
A. In which year did the China–India war take place?
Answer: 1962
B. In which year did the Phulguri peasant rebellion against the British occur?
Answer: 1861
C. In which year was the Assam Accord signed?
Answer: 1985
D. In which year was the Assam Association, the first political organization of Assam, formed?
Answer: 1903
E. In which year was Cotton College established in Guwahati?
Answer: 1901
Question 6: Short Answer Questions (Answer briefly – any three) (2 marks)
A. Name the two ancient geographical regions of Assam.
Answer: The two ancient geographical regions of Assam are Kamarupa and Pragjyotishpur.
B. Mention two oil refineries located in Assam.
Answer: Two oil refineries in Assam are Digboi Refinery and Numaligarh Refinery.
C. Write the names of Ahom officials under the Paik system.
Answer: The main Ahom officials under the Paik system were Gohain, Phukan, and Barua.
D. Mention the ancient divisions of Assam as described in the Yogini Tantra.
Answer: The ancient divisions of Assam described in the Yogini Tantra are Kamrupa and Pragjyotisha.
Question 7: Short Answer Questions (Answer any two) (3 marks)
A. Name three places in Assam known for peasant revolts.
Answer:
The three places in Assam known for peasant revolts are:
Phulguri (1861) – the first peasant uprising against British taxation.
Patharughat (1894) – peasants protested against increased land revenue.
Rangia (1893) – another major peasant movement against British exploitation.
B. Write briefly about the consequences of the Yandaboo Treaty.
Answer:
The Treaty of Yandaboo was signed in 1826 between the British and the Burmese, marking the end of the First Anglo-Burmese War. Its main consequences were:
The British gained control over Assam, ending Burmese rule.
The Ahom kingdom came under British protection, and later under direct rule.
It marked the beginning of British administration in Assam, leading to political and economic changes.
C. Write briefly about the Language Movement in Assam.
Answer:
The Language Movement in Assam took place in the 1960s to protect the Assamese language and culture. When the government tried to impose Bengali as an official language, strong protests arose. The movement led to the recognition of Assamese as the official language of Assam in 1960 (except in Barak Valley). It created linguistic unity among Assamese people but also caused temporary regional tensions.
D. Differentiate between International migration and Inter-state migration.
Answer:
Question 8: Long Answer Questions (Answer any four) (6 marks each)
A. Discuss the influence of the Non-Cooperation Movement in Assam and the role of Assamese women in it.
Answer: The Non-Cooperation Movement, started by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920, had a strong influence in Assam. It inspired people to fight peacefully against British rule and became one of the most active freedom movements in the state.
Influence of the Movement in Assam:
Mass participation: People from all parts of Assam joined the movement by boycotting British schools, offices, and courts.
Educational boycott: Students left government schools and colleges and established national institutions like the Assam National College in Guwahati.
Economic boycott: People stopped buying foreign goods and promoted the use of Khadi and locally made products.
Political awakening: The movement spread political awareness among the rural population, encouraging them to demand freedom from British control.
Leaders’ contribution: Prominent Assamese leaders like Gopinath Bordoloi, Tarun Ram Phukan, and Nabin Chandra Bardoloi played a key role in organizing the movement in Assam.
Role of Assamese Women:
Assamese women took an active part in the movement by spreading the message of nationalism and encouraging people to join.
Women like Kanaklata Barua, Pushpalata Das, and Amritprabha Mahanta contributed significantly by organizing meetings, spinning Khadi, and participating in protests.
They showed courage and patriotism, which inspired many others to take part in the freedom struggle.
Conclusion: The Non-Cooperation Movement brought unity, courage, and a spirit of sacrifice among the people of Assam. It marked the beginning of mass participation, including women, in India’s struggle for independence.
B. Write briefly about the discovery of tea plantations in Assam and the migration of workers for tea cultivation.
Answer: Tea plantation is one of the most important economic activities in Assam. The discovery of tea and its development as a plantation industry had a great impact on the state’s history and economy.
Discovery of Tea in Assam:
The discovery of tea in Assam is credited to Robert Bruce, a British officer, who found tea plants growing wild near Rangpur and Sadiya in 1823.
Later, the Singpho tribe informed the British about the use of tea leaves as a beverage.
The Assam Company, the first tea company in India, was established in 1839 at Jorhat to start large-scale tea cultivation.
Tea gradually became the main plantation crop of Assam, making it world-famous for its strong flavor and quality.
Migration of Workers:
To meet the high demand for labor, the British brought thousands of workers from Bihar, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh to work in the tea gardens.
These migrant workers were made to work under strict conditions and low wages, which led to hardship and exploitation.
Over time, they settled permanently in Assam, forming a distinct community known as the Tea Tribe Community.
The workers played a vital role in building Assam’s tea industry, which remains one of the largest in the world today.
Conclusion: The discovery of tea and the migration of workers changed the economic and social structure of Assam. Tea became the backbone of Assam’s economy and continues to contribute greatly to the state’s income and identity.
C. Write a note on the weaving and spinning industry during the Ahom period.
Answer:
During the Ahom period, weaving and spinning were important cottage industries and a vital part of Assamese culture and economy. Almost every household, especially women, was engaged in weaving.
Main features:
Household activity: Weaving and spinning were mainly done by women using traditional handlooms. It was considered a sign of skill and pride for Assamese women.
Raw materials: The main materials used were cotton, silk, and eri (end silk), which were locally produced.
Royal encouragement: The Ahom kings encouraged weaving by providing raw materials and promoting silk production. Some royal families even maintained their own weaving units.
Variety of fabrics: Beautiful clothes like Mekhela-Chador, Gamosa, and Paat silk garments were made with fine designs and natural dyes.
Cultural importance: Weaving was not only an economic activity but also a cultural tradition passed down through generations.
The weaving and spinning industry of the Ahom period reflected the artistic skill, self-reliance, and cultural identity of the Assamese people, forming an important part of the state’s heritage.
D. Describe the pottery industry in ancient Assam.
Answer: The pottery industry in ancient Assam was one of the earliest and most common village industries. It fulfilled domestic needs and had both practical and cultural importance.
Main features:
Raw materials: Potters used fine clay found along riverbanks to make earthen pots and utensils.
Handmade and wheel-made pottery: Both hand-moulded and wheel-made pots were produced, showing the skill of local craftsmen.
Types of products: Pots, pitchers, lamps, cooking vessels, and storage jars were commonly made for daily household use.
Centres of pottery: Ancient sites like Ambari (Guwahati), Sadiya, and Tezpur have revealed evidence of old pottery remains.
Religious use: Pottery items were also used in religious ceremonies and festivals.
Cottage industry: It was a small-scale industry run by village artisans and played a role in the rural economy.
The pottery industry of ancient Assam shows the creativity and craftsmanship of early Assamese people. It was an essential part of their domestic life and cultural tradition.
E. Write about the origin and development of the petroleum industry in Assam.
Answer: The petroleum industry in Assam is one of the oldest in India and has played a vital role in the state’s economy.
Origin:
The first discovery of oil in India was made at Digboi in Upper Assam in 1889 during the British period.
The Assam Oil Company was formed in 1899 to explore and manage oil production.
The Digboi Refinery, established in 1901, is Asia’s oldest operating oil refinery.
Development:
After Independence, the Oil India Limited (OIL) was established in 1959, jointly managed by the Government of India and Burmah Oil Company.
New oilfields were discovered at Naharkatia, Moran, and Lakwa, expanding petroleum production.
Refineries were later set up at Guwahati (1962), Noonmati, and Bongaigaon (1974).
The petroleum industry today contributes significantly to Assam’s economy and provides employment and revenue.
Conclusion: The petroleum industry of Assam, beginning at Digboi, marked the start of India’s oil era and remains one of the most important industries in the state.
F. Write a note on the forest management schemes introduced by the British in Assam.
Answer: During British rule, the forests of Assam were brought under systematic management to exploit timber and other resources.
Main schemes and features:
The British introduced the Indian Forest Act of 1865, revised in 1878 and 1927, to regulate forest use.
Forests were classified into Reserved, Protected, and Village forests for controlled exploitation.
The Assam Forest Department was established to supervise forest administration.
Timber, especially sal and teak, was extensively extracted for railway sleepers and export.
Large forest areas were leased to private contractors and European companies.
Though it generated revenue, excessive exploitation led to deforestation and affected tribal livelihoods.
Conclusion: The British forest schemes in Assam introduced organized forest management but prioritized commercial gain over environmental protection and local welfare.
G. Write a short note on the environmental movements in India.
Answer: Environmental movements in India began as people’s struggles to protect forests, rivers, and the environment from destruction caused by industrialization and deforestation.
Major movements:
Chipko Movement (1973, Uttarakhand): Villagers, especially women, hugged trees to stop deforestation.
Silent Valley Movement (Kerala): Protested against a hydroelectric project that threatened tropical rainforests.
Narmada Bachao Andolan (1985): Opposed the construction of large dams on the Narmada River which displaced people and harmed the environment.
Appiko Movement (Karnataka): Inspired by Chipko, villagers fought to save forests.
Save the Ganga and Teesta movements: Demanded clean and sustainable river management.
These movements raised public awareness about ecological balance, sustainable development, and people’s rights over natural resources, marking a new phase of environmental consciousness in India.
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