ADEPT YOURSELF
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CBSE CLASS X – SOCIAL SCIENCE (CODE NO. 087)
SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER – SET 2 | ACADEMIC SESSION 2026–2027
General Instructions:
- The question paper contains 38 questions in four sections – A, B, C and D.
- All questions are compulsory. However, internal choices have been provided in some questions.
- Section A – History: Questions 1 to 9 carry 20 marks.
- Section B – Geography: Questions 10 to 19 carry 20 marks.
- Section C – Political Science: Questions 20 to 29 carry 20 marks.
- Section D – Economics: Questions 30 to 38 carry 20 marks.
- Questions include MCQs, Very Short Answer, Short Answer, Long Answer, Case-Based and Map-Based questions.
- Answer the questions according to the marks allotted.
- For map questions, use the outline map of India supplied with the question paper.
SECTION A – HISTORY (20 MARKS)
Q1.
Who among the following played an important role in the development of the printing press in Europe?
[1]
Q2.
Which of the following was one of the main objectives of the Treaty of Vienna of 1815?
[1]
Q3.
Which one of the following best explains the meaning of Satyagraha?
[1]
Q4.
Read the following statements:I. The Rowlatt Act was passed in 1919.II. It gave the government enormous powers to repress political activities.III. Mahatma Gandhi launched a nationwide Satyagraha against it.Choose the correct option.
[1]
Q5.
Why did the image of Bharat Mata become an important symbol of Indian nationalism?
[2]
Q6.
Explain any two ways in which cultural processes helped develop a sense of nationalism in India.
[2]
Q7.
Read the source and answer the questions:
(b) Mention one major demand of the peasants. [1]
(c) Why did the movement develop links with the wider national movement? [2]
The movement in the Awadh region was closely linked with the grievances of peasants against talukdars and landlords. Peasants demanded reduction of revenue, abolition of begar and social boycott of oppressive landlords. Baba Ramchandra emerged as an important figure in mobilising the peasants.
(a) Name the region associated with this peasant movement.
[1]
(b) Mention one major demand of the peasants. [1]
(c) Why did the movement develop links with the wider national movement? [2]
Q8.
“The making of a nation-state in Britain was different from the process of unification in Germany and Italy.”Explain the statement with suitable arguments.
[3]
OR
Explain the role of culture, language and folklore in creating a sense of nationalism in Europe.
Q9.
Map Skill-Based Question:On the given outline political map of India, identify and label the following:
[5]
(A) History – 2 Marks
(i) Champaran: The place associated with the Indigo Satyagraha of 1917.
(ii) Amritsar: The place associated with the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
(B) Geography – 3 MarksLocate and label ANY THREE:
(i) Kandla – Major Sea Port
(ii) Singrauli – Thermal Power Plant
(iii) Bokaro – Iron and Steel Plant
(iv) Nagarjuna Sagar – Major Dam
(i) Champaran: The place associated with the Indigo Satyagraha of 1917.
(ii) Amritsar: The place associated with the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
(B) Geography – 3 MarksLocate and label ANY THREE:
(i) Kandla – Major Sea Port
(ii) Singrauli – Thermal Power Plant
(iii) Bokaro – Iron and Steel Plant
(iv) Nagarjuna Sagar – Major Dam
SECTION B – GEOGRAPHY (20 MARKS)
Q10.
Which one of the following is a renewable resource?
[1]
Q11.
Which soil is particularly suitable for growing cotton?
[1]
Q12.
Which of the following is a major cause of land degradation in Gujarat, Rajasthan and western Madhya Pradesh?
[1]
Q13.
Which crop is known as the “golden fibre”?
[1]
Q14.
Distinguish between conventional and non-conventional sources of energy with one example of each.
[2]
Q15.
Why is conservation of minerals necessary? Give any two reasons.
[2]
Q16.
Explain any three factors responsible for the concentration of iron and steel industries in and around the Chota Nagpur Plateau.
[3]
Q17.
“Manufacturing industries are considered the backbone of economic development.”Explain the statement with three arguments.
[3]
OR
Explain any three problems faced by the cotton textile industry in India.
Q18.
Read the following source and answer the questions:
(b) Mention one factor responsible for increasing pressure on freshwater. [1]
(c) Explain two advantages of rainwater harvesting. [2]
Water is a renewable resource, but its availability is unevenly distributed. Rapid population growth, urbanisation, industrialisation and intensive agriculture have increased pressure on freshwater resources. Rainwater harvesting and watershed management can help conserve water and recharge groundwater.
(a) Why is water considered a renewable resource?
[1]
(b) Mention one factor responsible for increasing pressure on freshwater. [1]
(c) Explain two advantages of rainwater harvesting. [2]
Q19.
Explain any three geographical conditions necessary for the cultivation of rice in India.
[2]
OR
Explain any three major uses of manganese.
SECTION C – POLITICAL SCIENCE (20 MARKS)
Q20.
Which form of power sharing is represented by the division of power between the legislature, executive and judiciary?
[1]
Q21.
Which of the following countries adopted majoritarian policies after independence?
[1]
Q22.
Which of the following subjects belongs to the Union List?
[1]
Q23.
Which of the following is a major challenge faced by political parties?
[1]
Q24.
State any two prudential reasons for power sharing.
[2]
Q25.
Explain any two features of India’s federal system.
[2]
Q26.
How has decentralisation strengthened democracy in India?
Explain any three points.
[3]
Q27.
Explain any three functions of political parties.
[3]
OR
Explain any three challenges faced by political parties in India.
Q28.
Read the source and answer the questions:
(b) How does democracy accommodate differences? [1]
(c) Explain two ways in which power sharing helps maintain political stability. [2]
India is a country of immense social and cultural diversity. Different communities speak different languages, follow different religions and have varied cultural traditions. Democracy provides institutional mechanisms through which different groups can participate in decision-making and protect their interests.
(a) Why is social diversity not necessarily a threat to democracy?
[1]
(b) How does democracy accommodate differences? [1]
(c) Explain two ways in which power sharing helps maintain political stability. [2]
Q29.
“Democracy is better than other forms of government because it improves the quality of decision-making.”Justify the statement with suitable arguments.
[3]
SECTION D – ECONOMICS (20 MARKS)
Q30.
Which of the following is a non-income indicator of development?
[1]
Q31.
What does the Infant Mortality Rate indicate?
[1]
Q32.
Which sector includes activities such as banking, transport and insurance?
[1]
Q33.
Which institution supervises the formal sources of loans in India?
[1]
Q34.
What is meant by collateral? Why do lenders sometimes demand it?
[2]
Q35.
Why are workers in the organised sector generally more secure than workers in the unorganised sector?
Give two reasons.
[2]
Q36.
Explain any three ways in which the public sector contributes to the development of a country.
[3]
Q37.
Explain how globalisation has been facilitated by technological development.
Give three examples.
[3]
OR
Explain any three ways in which consumers have benefited from globalisation.
Q38.
Read the following source and answer the questions:
(b) Name one formal source of credit. [1]
(c) Why can informal credit sometimes push borrowers into a debt trap? [2]
Credit plays an important role in economic activities. It can help people meet working-capital requirements, purchase assets and expand businesses. However, credit can also become a problem when repayment conditions are unfavourable. Formal lenders generally follow regulated procedures, whereas informal lenders may charge very high interest rates.
(a) Why is credit useful for economic activities?
[1]
(b) Name one formal source of credit. [1]
(c) Why can informal credit sometimes push borrowers into a debt trap? [2]
CBSE CLASS X SOCIAL SCIENCE (087)
SOLUTIONS & MARKING SCHEME – SET 2
SOLUTIONS & MARKING SCHEME – SET 2
SECTION A – HISTORY SOLUTIONS
Q1. (a) Johann Gutenberg [1]
Gutenberg developed the printing press in Europe and printed the Bible in the 1430s–1440s.
Gutenberg developed the printing press in Europe and printed the Bible in the 1430s–1440s.
Q2. (b) To restore monarchies overthrown during the Napoleonic wars [1]
The Treaty of Vienna aimed to restore conservative monarchies and establish a new balance of power in Europe.
The Treaty of Vienna aimed to restore conservative monarchies and establish a new balance of power in Europe.
Q3. (c) Truth and non-violent resistance against injustice [1]
Q4. (d) I, II and III [1]
Q5. [2]
- Bharat Mata personified India as a mother figure and created an emotional bond with the nation. [1]
- Her image helped people imagine India as a unified cultural community and strengthened nationalist feelings. [1]
Q6. [2]
- Nationalists used folklore, songs, legends and traditional stories to revive a sense of India’s glorious past. [1]
- Symbols, flags, images and reinterpretation of history helped create collective national identity. [1]
Q7. [4]
- (a) Awadh. [1]
- (b) Reduction of revenue / abolition of begar / social boycott of oppressive landlords. Any one. [1]
- (c) Peasant grievances became linked with the wider struggle against colonial rule, particularly through the Non-Cooperation Movement. [2]
Q8. [3]
- Britain’s nation-state emerged through a long historical process rather than a single revolutionary event. [1]
- England gradually imposed its influence over Scotland and Ireland through political and parliamentary processes. [1]
- The Act of Union and creation of the United Kingdom consolidated political unity under English dominance. [1]
- Romantic artists and poets promoted national feeling. [1]
- Folk songs, poetry and local traditions helped preserve cultural identity. [1]
- Language became an important medium of national consciousness and resistance. [1]
Q9. [5]
- History: Champaran and Amritsar. [2]
- Geography: Any three correctly located and labelled: Kandla, Singrauli, Bokaro, Nagarjuna Sagar. [3]
SECTION B – GEOGRAPHY SOLUTIONS
Q10. (c) Solar energy [1]
Q11. (b) Black soil [1]
Q12. (c) Overgrazing [1]
Q13. (b) Jute [1]
Q14. [2]
- Conventional sources are traditionally used sources such as coal and petroleum. [1]
- Non-conventional sources are relatively newer and renewable sources such as solar and wind energy. [1]
Q15. [2]
- Minerals are finite and take millions of years to form. [1]
- Increasing demand and rapid exploitation can exhaust mineral reserves; therefore, planned and sustainable use is necessary. [1]
Q16. [3]
- Availability of iron ore, coal, limestone and other raw materials. [1]
- Availability of cheap labour and adequate power. [1]
- Good transport links and access to markets. [1]
Q17. [3]
- Manufacturing adds value to raw materials. [1]
- It creates employment and reduces excessive dependence on agriculture. [1]
- It promotes trade, exports and economic growth. [1]
- Competition from synthetic fibres. [1]
- Power shortages and outdated machinery in some units. [1]
- International competition and fluctuations in demand. [1]
Q18. [4]
- (a) Water is renewed through the hydrological cycle. [1]
- (b) Any one: population growth, urbanisation, industrialisation or intensive agriculture. [1]
- (c) It recharges groundwater and reduces dependence on surface-water sources. [1]
- It helps conserve water and can reduce local water scarcity. [1]
Q19. [2]
- High temperature and high humidity. [1]
- Abundant rainfall and suitable fertile soil; irrigation supplements rainfall in areas of lower rainfall. [1]
- Used in the manufacture of steel. [1]
- Used in batteries, paints and other industrial products. [1]
SECTION C – POLITICAL SCIENCE SOLUTIONS
Q20. (b) Horizontal division [1]
Q21. (b) Sri Lanka [1]
Q22. (c) Defence [1]
Q23. (b) Dynastic succession [1]
Q24. [2]
- Power sharing reduces the possibility of conflict between different social groups. [1]
- It ensures political stability by accommodating diverse interests. [1]
Q25. [2]
- There are two or more levels of government, each with constitutionally assigned powers. [1]
- The Constitution clearly divides powers and provides constitutional protection to the different levels of government. [1]
Q26. [3]
- Local governments have constitutional status and regular elections. [1]
- Seats are reserved for women and disadvantaged groups. [1]
- Local people participate directly in decisions concerning their communities. [1]
Q27. [3]
- Political parties contest elections and nominate candidates. [1]
- They formulate policies and programmes. [1]
- They form governments or act as opposition parties and hold governments accountable. [1]
- Lack of internal democracy. [1]
- Dynastic succession. [1]
- Money and muscle power / limited meaningful choice. [1]
Q28. [4]
- (a) Diversity can be accommodated through democratic institutions and power sharing. [1]
- (b) Democracy allows different groups to participate and express their interests. [1]
- (c) Power sharing prevents concentration of power and reduces social conflict. [1]
- It builds trust among different communities and promotes political stability. [1]
Q29. [3]
- Democracy involves consultation and discussion before decisions are taken. [1]
- Different viewpoints can be considered, reducing the possibility of arbitrary decisions. [1]
- Decisions are subject to public scrutiny and accountability. [1]
SECTION D – ECONOMICS SOLUTIONS
Q30. (b) Literacy rate [1]
Q31. (b) Number of deaths of children below one year per 1,000 live births [1]
Q32. (c) Tertiary sector [1]
Q33. (b) RBI [1]
Q34. [2]
- Collateral is an asset that a borrower owns and offers as security against a loan. [1]
- Lenders demand collateral to reduce the risk of non-repayment; it can be used to recover the loan if the borrower defaults. [1]
Q35. [2]
- Organised-sector workers generally receive regular salaries and legally protected working conditions. [1]
- They may receive benefits such as paid leave, provident fund and job-related social security. [1]
Q36. [3]
- The public sector provides essential services and infrastructure such as transport, education, healthcare and electricity. [1]
- It undertakes activities requiring large investment that may not be immediately profitable. [1]
- It promotes balanced development and provides employment. [1]
Q37. [3]
- Improved transport and communication have made movement of goods, people and information faster. [1]
- Information and communication technology allows businesses to coordinate production across countries. [1]
- Liberalisation of trade and investment has enabled firms to operate in international markets. [1]
- Greater variety of goods. [1]
- Improved quality and competitive prices. [1]
- Access to newer technologies and products. [1]
Q38. [4]
- (a) Credit enables people and businesses to finance production, purchase assets and meet working-capital needs. [1]
- (b) Bank / cooperative society. [1]
- (c) Informal lenders may charge very high interest and impose unfavourable repayment conditions. [1]
- When borrowers repeatedly borrow to repay previous loans, the debt can grow and trap them in a cycle of indebtedness. [1]