CBSE Class 10 Political Science (Civics) Important Questions Chapter 3 Gender, Religion and Caste

1. What is the division of labour between sexes? Give examples to illustrate.

Ans: The sexual division of labour refers to the distribution of tasks and roles in society based on gender. This concept delineates which activities are deemed appropriate for men and which for women, often leading to different opportunities, responsibilities, and statuses for each gender.

Examples:

1. Traditional Household Roles: In many societies, women have historically been assigned domestic tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and child-rearing, while men have been responsible for work outside the home, such as earning a living and handling financial matters. This division reinforces gender-specific roles and expectations.

2. Occupational Segregation: Certain professions are often dominated by one gender. For instance, nursing and teaching at primary levels are predominantly female professions, while engineering and construction are male-dominated fields. This segregation can limit career opportunities and perpetuate gender stereotypes.

3. Cultural Practices: In some cultures, traditional roles are strictly defined, with men participating in public or economic activities and women focusing on family and domestic duties. This division can affect women’s access to education and employment opportunities, reinforcing gender inequalities.

2. Has India truly moved past its caste system? Provide grounds for your justification.

Ans: The caste system has not completely disappeared from India, although its forms and impact have evolved significantly over time. While the traditional caste-based social hierarchy has been legally abolished and efforts have been made to reduce its influence, caste-based discrimination and social stratification persist. Here’s why:

Persistence of Caste System:

1. Social and Economic Disparities: Despite legal protections and affirmative action policies, economic and social disparities based on caste remain prevalent. Many individuals from lower castes still face significant challenges in accessing quality education, employment opportunities, and socio-economic resources.

2. Discrimination and Social Exclusion: Caste-based discrimination continues in various forms, including social exclusion, violence, and prejudice. Instances of caste-based atrocities and discrimination in public and private spheres highlight the ongoing issues faced by marginalised communities.

3. Political and Social Dynamics: Caste identities still play a significant role in political mobilisation and voting patterns. Political parties often address caste-based concerns to garner support, and caste-based networks continue to influence social relationships and community interactions.

4. Cultural and Traditional Practices: In many rural and semi-urban areas, traditional practices and beliefs related to caste continue to influence daily life. Caste-based customs and practices still shape social interactions, marriages, and community life in various regions.

5. Resistance to Change: Social change is gradual, and resistance to abandoning traditional caste practices can hinder progress. Some communities and individuals may continue to uphold caste-based norms and practices, reflecting the persistence of the caste system.

3. Talk about all of these prevailing societal views of the ideal woman. Do any of these resonate with you? If not, how would you describe the perfect woman?

Ans: Traditional perceptions of an ideal woman often include roles centred around domesticity, self-sacrifice, and modesty, emphasising qualities like nurturing care, supportiveness, and adherence to traditional beauty standards. These views can confine women to outdated roles and restrict their potential. I believe these perceptions are limiting; an ideal woman should be seen as an individual with her aspirations and strengths, capable of pursuing her passions and making her own choices. She should be valued for her unique contributions and character, reflecting equality and independence rather than conforming to restrictive stereotypes.

4. Do you concur that the caste system influences politics and determines which candidates represent a constituency? Give reasons to support your response.

Ans:

• Yes, the caste system plays a significant role in shaping politics and determining candidates in constituencies. Caste identity influences voting patterns, with political parties often targeting specific caste groups to secure electoral support and shape their campaign strategies. 

• This impact extends to the selection of candidates, where parties may choose individuals based on their caste to appeal to particular communities, rather than focusing solely on qualifications or merit. 

• Reservation policies and caste-based social networks further reinforce caste’s role in politics. Although this influence reflects social realities, it underscores the need for ongoing efforts to address caste-based inequalities and foster more inclusive and equitable political practices.

5. Could you define the terms "feminism" and "patriarchy"?

Ans:

• Patriarchy refers to a social system in which men hold primary power and dominate in roles of leadership, authority, and control across various sectors, including family, politics, and the workplace. In a patriarchal society, traditional gender roles are often reinforced, leading to unequal power dynamics where men are considered superior and women are relegated to subordinate roles. This system perpetuates gender inequalities and limits women's opportunities and freedoms by maintaining male dominance in decision-making processes and societal norms.

• A feminist denotes someone who advocates for feminism, which is a movement and ideology aimed at achieving gender equality and challenging the systemic oppression of women. Feminists work to address issues such as gender discrimination, unequal pay, violence against women, and societal expectations that limit women’s potential. Feminism seeks to dismantle patriarchal structures and promote equal rights, opportunities, and respect for all genders, striving for a more just and equitable society.

6. Talk about how the Indian Constitution embodies the concept of secularism.

Ans:

• Equal Treatment of All Religions: The Constitution guarantees that the state will not favour any religion. This principle is enshrined in Article 15, which prohibits discrimination on the grounds of religion, and Article 27, which ensures that no individual is compelled to pay taxes for the promotion or maintenance of any particular religion.

• Freedom of Religion: Fundamental Rights in the Constitution, particularly Articles 25 to 28, provide for the freedom of religion. These articles guarantee individuals the right to practice, profess, and propagate their religion, and also safeguard the rights of religious communities to establish and administer their institutions.

• Secular State: The Preamble of the Indian Constitution describes India as a “secular” republic. This declaration signifies that the Indian state does not adhere to any religion and treats all religions equally. The state's policies and laws are made without regard to religious considerations, ensuring that the governance of the country is based on secular principles.

• Protection of Religious Minorities: The Constitution includes provisions to protect the rights of religious minorities. For instance, Article 30 grants minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice, while Article 29 protects the cultural and educational rights of minorities.

• Non-Interference in Religious Practices: The Constitution ensures that the state does not interfere in the internal affairs of religious institutions or communities, as long as their practices do not conflict with public order, morality, and health. This principle supports the autonomy of religious groups in managing their affairs.

7. There are relatively few women serving in India's legislature. For instance, in 2014, the proportion of elected women MPs in the Lok Sabha reached 12% of its entire membership for the first time. Less than 5% of them are represented in state assemblies. Could you provide some explanations for India's low female representation? Do you believe that the representation of women in the Americas and Europe is now adequate?

Ans:

• The low proportion of women in India’s legislature is due to several factors, including traditional gender roles, cultural norms, and a challenging political environment that often hinders women’s participation. Societal expectations may discourage women from pursuing political careers, while political parties may offer limited support and resources for female candidates. 

• Additionally, gender bias and discrimination further undermine women’s opportunities in politics. In contrast, many countries in Europe and the Americas have achieved higher levels of women’s representation through measures such as gender quotas and targeted support. For instance, Scandinavian countries and some nations in the Americas have made notable progress, though challenges persist in achieving full gender parity in political representation globally.

8. How can feminism be beneficial if communalism and casteism are bad? Why don't we fight against everyone who creates social divisions based on gender, caste, or religion?

Ans:

• Feminism is considered a positive force because it advocates for gender equality and aims to dismantle discriminatory structures that limit opportunities based on gender. 

• Unlike casteism and communalism, which perpetuate divisions and inequalities within society, feminism promotes inclusivity and social justice by addressing systemic barriers and empowering individuals to pursue their potential without gender-based constraints. 

• It aligns with universal principles of human rights and equality, seeking to create a fairer society where everyone, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities and dignity. 

• By focusing on justice and challenging discriminatory practices, feminism supports a more equitable and harmonious world, standing in contrast to divisive ideologies that reinforce social hierarchies.

9. Are the secularist tenets of India protected by the Indian Constitution? How?

Ans:

• Yes, the Constitution of India effectively safeguards the principles of secularism by ensuring that the state remains neutral in religious matters and promotes equal respect for all religions. 

• The Constitution establishes India as a secular state in its Preamble, and this is reinforced through several provisions. Articles 25 to 28 guarantee individuals the freedom to practice and propagate their religion while protecting the rights of religious groups to manage their institutions. 

• Article 15 prohibits discrimination based on religion, ensuring equal treatment for all citizens. Article 27 prevents the use of public funds for religious purposes, and Article 30 protects the rights of minorities to establish and manage their educational institutions. 

• These measures collectively uphold secularism by ensuring that the state does not favour any religion and respects the diversity of religious beliefs in India.

10. List the several spheres of life where women in India face discrimination or disadvantage.

Ans:

• Education: Despite improvements, gender disparities in education persist, with girls often having lower enrollment and higher dropout rates in schools, particularly in rural areas. Cultural norms and economic constraints can limit girls' access to quality education.

• Employment: Women often encounter barriers in the workforce, including lower wages compared to men for similar work, limited job opportunities, and occupational segregation. The lack of supportive workplace policies, such as maternity leave and childcare facilities, further exacerbates these issues.

• Healthcare: Women face disparities in healthcare access and quality, with issues such as inadequate maternal care, lower investment in women's health services, and limited access to reproductive health resources. Socioeconomic factors and regional disparities also affect healthcare outcomes for women.

• Legal Rights: While legal protections exist, women often face challenges in accessing justice and enforcing their rights. Issues such as marital rape, domestic violence, and inheritance rights can be inadequately addressed due to societal attitudes and legal loopholes.

• Political Participation: Women are underrepresented in political leadership and decision-making roles. Despite some progress, women’s participation in politics remains limited, and they often face barriers to obtaining political positions and influence.

• Cultural and Social Norms: Traditional gender norms and societal expectations can restrict women’s freedoms and opportunities. Practices such as child marriage, dowry, and gender-based violence continue to affect women’s lives and limit their autonomy.

• Economic Independence: Women often have less access to financial resources, property ownership, and economic opportunities. This lack of economic independence can limit their ability to make decisions and improve their social and economic status.

11. Describe "Communalism."

Ans: Communalism refers to the ideology or practice of promoting the interests of a particular religious or ethnic community over others, often leading to the division of society along religious or communal lines. This concept involves the belief that a community's identity and interests should take precedence, sometimes at the expense of national unity and social cohesion.

12. Give one example of each of the various community politics.

Ans:

1. Religious Fundamentalism:

• Example: The rise of religious fundamentalist movements that promote strict adherence to religious doctrines and seek to impose their beliefs on others. In India, the activities of certain extremist groups that advocate for the establishment of a theocratic state based on their religious principles exemplify this form of communal politics.

2. Communal Violence:

• Example: Outbreaks of violence between different religious or ethnic communities driven by sectarian tensions. The 2002 Gujarat riots, where communal clashes resulted in significant violence and loss of life, illustrate how communal politics can lead to severe and tragic conflicts.

3. Sectarian Political Parties:

• Example: Political parties that primarily represent and promote the interests of a specific religious community, often at the expense of national unity. In some countries, there are political parties that focus on advancing the agenda of their religious constituency, leading to increased communal division. An example is the use of religion-based parties in elections to garner support from specific religious communities.

4. Communal Vote Bank Politics:

• Example: Political strategies that exploit communal identities to build vote banks and gain electoral advantages. For instance, some politicians may appeal to religious communities by promising benefits or making divisive statements to secure votes, thereby reinforcing communal identities and divisions.

5. Communal Propaganda:

• Example: Dissemination of misleading or inflammatory information to incite communal tensions or hatred. The spread of false or exaggerated information about religious or ethnic groups through social media and other channels can stir up animosity and unrest, as seen in various incidents of communal propaganda leading to public demonstrations and riots.

13. Describe the kinds of labour that society devalues.

Ans:

• Domestic Work: Tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and childcare are often undervalued, despite their critical importance in maintaining households and supporting family members. This work is frequently perceived as less significant compared to paid employment and is often performed by women, reinforcing gender-based inequalities.

• Care Work: Jobs in caregiving, including nursing, elderly care, and childcare, are often undervalued both in terms of financial compensation and social recognition. Despite the essential nature of this work, caregivers frequently receive lower wages and fewer benefits compared to other professions.

• Manual Labour: Jobs that involve manual or physical labour, such as construction work, sanitation, and agricultural tasks, are often devalued. These roles are sometimes associated with lower status and income, despite the significant effort and skill required.

• Service Sector Jobs: Positions in the service industry, such as retail, hospitality, and customer service, are often seen as less prestigious and are frequently accompanied by lower wages and fewer opportunities for advancement. Workers in these fields are sometimes subjected to unfair treatment and undervalued.

• Informal Sector Work: Employment in the informal sector, including casual labour, street vending, and domestic help, is often overlooked and lacks formal recognition and protection. Workers in this sector may face instability, inadequate wages, and a lack of social security benefits.

14. Give two arguments for the claim that caste is insufficient to impact election outcomes in India.

Ans:

1. Diverse Voter Preferences: Indian voters are influenced by a range of factors beyond caste, including economic conditions, development issues, and party ideologies. Voters may prioritise issues such as employment, infrastructure, and education over caste affiliations when choosing their representatives. For instance, in urban areas and among younger voters, economic and developmental concerns often outweigh caste considerations.

2. Complex Political Dynamics: Electoral outcomes are shaped by complex interactions between multiple factors, including party strategies, alliances, and individual candidate appeal. Political parties often form alliances across caste lines to maximise their electoral base and address the diverse needs of various communities. Additionally, candidates who appeal to broader issues or present strong leadership qualities may win support from voters of different castes, demonstrating that caste alone does not guarantee electoral success.

15. How did Dr. B. R. Ambedkar contribute to the struggle for Dalits?

Ans:

• Dr. B. R. Ambedkar played a crucial role in fighting for the rights and social justice of Dalits in India. He tirelessly challenged the caste system and worked towards the upliftment of Dalits through various means, including his significant role as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution. 

• Ambedkar ensured that the Constitution included provisions to eliminate untouchability and promote equality, and he advocated for affirmative action through reservations in education and employment. 

• His emphasis on education as a tool for empowerment, the establishment of political organisations for Dalit representation, and his symbolic conversion to Buddhism in 1956 were all pivotal in his mission to address the systemic injustices faced by Dalits and integrate them into mainstream society with dignity and equal opportunities.

16. Name two clauses in the constitution that declare India to be a secular state.

Ans:

• Article 15: This article prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. By ensuring that no individual is treated unfairly or excluded from any benefit based on their religion, Article 15 supports the principle of secularism by promoting equality and preventing religious bias in the public and private sectors.

• Article 27: This article mandates that no person shall be compelled to pay taxes for the promotion or maintenance of any particular religion. It ensures that public funds are not used to support or endorse any religious activities, reinforcing the separation of religion from state affairs and upholding the secular nature of the Indian government.

17. Talk about women's access to education in India.

Ans:

• The educational status of women in India has seen significant improvements, with increased enrollment in primary and secondary schools and greater participation in higher education. Government initiatives such as the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme and the Right to Education Act have played crucial roles in encouraging girls' education. 

• However, challenges persist, including high dropout rates due to factors like child marriage and economic pressures, as well as regional disparities in educational access and quality. 

• While women’s presence in higher education has grown, access to advanced opportunities remains limited for many, particularly in rural and marginalised communities. Addressing these issues is essential to achieving equitable educational outcomes for all women in India.

18. India is unique in that it has social divisions based on _________.

Ans: Social divisions based on caste are peculiar to India. The caste system is a traditional social hierarchy that categorises individuals into various groups based on their birth and occupation, and it has historically influenced various aspects of life, including social status, occupation, and interaction within society. This system has had a profound impact on social relationships and continues to affect societal dynamics in India today.

19. Is it important to keep religion and the state apart? Why?

Ans:

• Yes, separating religion from the state is crucial for ensuring a fair and inclusive society. It guarantees that the government treats all citizens equally, regardless of their religious beliefs, and prevents any single religion from being favoured over others. 

• This separation helps reduce discrimination by ensuring that public policies are based on secular principles rather than religious doctrines, thus protecting minority groups and promoting social harmony. 

• Additionally, it safeguards individuals' rights to practice, change, or renounce their religion freely, without state interference. By focusing on universal principles aimed at the common welfare, a secular state fosters a diverse and cohesive society where everyone can coexist respectfully.

20. What caused the kid-sex ratio to drastically decline? Talk about it.

Ans:

• The severe decline in the child sex ratio in India is primarily due to a combination of socio-cultural and economic factors. The preference for male children, driven by traditional beliefs that value sons for carrying on the family lineage and providing financial support, has led to the widespread use of sex-selective abortions. 

• This preference is further exacerbated by economic considerations and the dowry system, which places a financial burden on families with daughters. 

• Despite laws such as the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act aimed at curbing sex-selective practices, weak enforcement and the persistence of illegal sex-determination clinics have undermined these efforts. 

• Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, including promoting gender equality and strengthening legal measures.

21. What proportion of local body seats are set aside for women?

Ans:

• In India, the percentage of seats reserved for women in local bodies is 33%. This reservation applies to both urban and rural local self-government institutions, including municipal corporations, municipal councils, and panchayats. 

• The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, enacted in 1992, mandated this reservation to enhance women's participation in local governance and ensure their representation in decision-making processes at the grassroots level.

22. Let's say a politician asks for your vote based only on your faith. Why is his behaviour deemed to be against democratic norms? Describe.

Ans:

• When a politician seeks votes on religious grounds, it goes against democratic norms because it undermines the principle of secularism, which mandates that the state and its representatives treat all religions equally and make decisions based on secular rather than religious considerations. 

• Such appeals can promote division within society by polarising voters along religious lines, leading to increased communal tensions and disrupting social harmony. This practice also compromises equal representation by prioritising the interests of specific religious groups over others, thereby neglecting the needs of all citizens. 

• It encourages identity politics, which focuses on securing support from particular groups instead of addressing broader societal issues, ultimately hindering fair and comprehensive policy-making.

23. Describe how caste disparities persist in India.

Ans:

• Caste inequalities continue to persist in India despite various reforms aimed at addressing them. Economic disparities remain significant, with lower-caste individuals often relegated to low-paying, unskilled jobs and facing barriers to economic advancement due to historical social exclusion. 

• Social exclusion is also prevalent, with lower-caste individuals experiencing discrimination and being ostracised from community events and social interactions. 

• Educational and health inequities are evident, as lower-caste communities frequently have limited access to quality education and healthcare. Additionally, practices of untouchability, though legally abolished, still occur in some areas, perpetuating social divisions. 

• Political representation for lower-caste groups remains limited, affecting their ability to influence policy and advocate for their needs effectively.

Important Topics of Class 10 Gender, Religion and Caste Important Questions 

Gender Religion and Caste Class 10 Important Questions covers topics including gender inequality, which addresses disparities in various spheres, religious diversity and tolerance, emphasising respect and secularism, and caste discrimination, focusing on addressing social inequalities and promoting justice for marginalised communities.

Benefits of Learning with Gender, Religion and Caste Class 10 Important Questions and Answers PDF

Studying Class 10 Gender, Religion and Caste Important Questions offers students several benefits.

• Provides a comprehensive grasp of how gender, religion, and caste influence individual lives and societal structures, fostering a deeper awareness of social dynamics and inequalities.

• Encourages students to think critically about issues of discrimination, social justice, and equality, helping them develop a nuanced perspective on complex social issues.

• Equips students with knowledge about their rights and the mechanisms of social justice, preparing them to contribute effectively to discussions and actions aimed at promoting equality and inclusivity in society.

• Helps students prepare effectively for exams by focusing on key topics and important questions, ensuring a thorough understanding of the chapter's content and its real-world implications.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Gender Religion and Caste Important questions emphasise the profound impact of these social categories on individuals and society. By exploring issues of gender inequality, religious diversity, and caste discrimination, the chapter highlights the ongoing challenges and efforts towards achieving social justice and equality. Understanding these dynamics is important for fostering a more inclusive and equitable society, where every individual, regardless of gender, religion, or caste, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully.

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