HPPSC HAS Mains 2016 Paper-1

Mahabalipuram: The Culmination of Early Indian Rock-Cut Architecture? Introduction: The question asks for an elucidation of the statement that Mahabalipuram represents the pinnacle of rock-cut architecture in early India. This requires a factual and analytical approach, examining the architectural achievements of Mahabalipuram within the broader context of early Indian rock-cut traditions. While the statement is … Read more Mahabalipuram marks the culmination of Rock-cut architecture in Early India. Elucidate.

Examining Critically the Features of Decolonization Introduction: Decolonization, a process spanning the mid-20th century, refers to the undoing of colonialism – the policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically. It wasn’t a uniform, globally synchronized event but rather a series of … Read more Examine critically the features of De-colonization.

A Critical Examination of Animistic and Naturalistic Theories of Religion Introduction: Theories of religion attempt to explain the origins and functions of religious belief and practice. Among the many proposed explanations, animism and naturalism stand out as two prominent, yet contrasting, perspectives. Animism posits that religious beliefs stem from a belief in spirits inhabiting natural … Read more Critically examine the ‘animistic’ and ‘naturalistic’ theories of religion.

The Main Festivals of the Gaddis of Himachal Pradesh Introduction: The Gaddis are a pastoral community inhabiting the high altitude regions of Himachal Pradesh, India. Their culture is deeply intertwined with their nomadic lifestyle and the harsh, yet beautiful, environment they inhabit. Their festivals, therefore, are largely agrarian and celebrate the cycles of nature, livestock, … Read more Describe the main festivals of Gaddis of Himachal Pradesh.

Introduction: Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti, two geographically challenging districts in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, are characterized by high altitudes, cold deserts, and harsh climatic conditions. Despite these limitations, these regions have a rich horticultural tradition, primarily focused on crops adapted to their unique environment. Understanding their main horticultural products requires examining the interplay of … Read more What are the main horticultural products of Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti regions of Himachal Pradesh?

Ancient Literary Sources Referencing the Kullu Region of Himachal Pradesh Introduction: The Kullu Valley, nestled in the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh, boasts a rich history and cultural heritage. Its strategic location along ancient trade routes ensured its interaction with various civilizations, leaving traces in historical records. Pinpointing precise references to “Kuluta” (or Kullu) in ancient … Read more Which ancient literary sources find reference to Kuluta (Kullu) region of Himachal Pradesh?

British Policy Towards the Shimla Hill States: Three Key Considerations Introduction: The British Raj’s policy towards the Shimla Hill States, encompassing princely states in the Himalayan region, was a complex interplay of strategic, economic, and administrative factors. These states, while nominally independent, were deeply influenced by British power, leading to a unique relationship characterized by … Read more Identify any three considerations on which the British policy towards the Shimla Hill states was based.

Introduction: Raja Bhuri Singh (1844-1870) ruled the Chamba princely state in Himachal Pradesh, India, during a period of significant social and economic change. While detailed records of all his initiatives might be scarce, available historical accounts suggest he focused on improving the welfare of his subjects, albeit within the limitations of the time and resources. … Read more Enumerate any four public welfare schemes executed by Raja Bhuri Singh of Chamba princely state.

Women Empowerment Policies in India: A Brief Overview Introduction: Women empowerment in India is a multifaceted issue encompassing social, economic, and political spheres. While India has made significant strides in promoting gender equality, deep-rooted patriarchal norms and societal structures continue to hinder women’s progress. The Constitution of India guarantees equality before the law and prohibits … Read more Briefly describe the policies for Women Empowerment in India.

Introduction: The Right to Education Act (RTE), 2009, a landmark legislation in India, guarantees free and compulsory education to all children aged 6-14 years. A crucial aspect of the RTE is its focus on ensuring equitable access to education for marginalized communities, particularly Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). This response will highlight the … Read more Highlight briefly the components of Right to Education Act (RTE), 2009 related to education of children from Scheduled Castes.