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Tribes, Nomads, and Settled Communities – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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7th

7th - Social Studies

Tribes, Nomads, and Settled Communities

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Overview of the Chapter: Tribes, Nomads, and Settled Communities

This chapter explores the diverse lifestyles of tribes, nomads, and settled communities in medieval India. It highlights their social structures, economic activities, and interactions with larger kingdoms and empires.

Definition: Tribes were social groups that lived in forests, hills, and other remote areas, often following their own customs and traditions distinct from mainstream society.

1. Tribes in Medieval India

Several tribes existed in different parts of India, such as the Gonds, Bhils, Santhals, and Nagas. They practiced shifting agriculture, hunting, and gathering. Some tribes, like the Gonds, even established their own kingdoms.

Definition: Nomads were people who moved from place to place in search of livelihood, often engaging in trade, herding, or crafts.

2. Nomadic Communities

Nomadic groups like the Banjaras played a crucial role in transporting goods across regions. They traveled with their animals and traded salt, grains, and other commodities.

3. Settled Agricultural Communities

Settled communities practiced farming and lived in villages. They paid taxes to rulers and were often part of the larger feudal system. The spread of agriculture led to deforestation and displacement of tribal groups.

4. Interaction Between Tribes and Kingdoms

Many tribes were gradually assimilated into larger kingdoms, either through conquest or alliances. Some tribes resisted domination, while others adopted aspects of mainstream culture.

5. Changes in Society

The medieval period saw the rise of new social groups, such as the Rajputs and Marathas, who had tribal origins but later became part of the ruling elite.

Definition: Settled communities were groups that lived permanently in one place, relying on agriculture or specialized crafts for survival.

Conclusion

The chapter emphasizes the diversity of medieval Indian society, where tribes, nomads, and settled communities coexisted, interacted, and influenced each other’s ways of life.

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
Who were the Ahoms?
Answer:

The Ahoms were a tribe from present-day Assam.

Question 2:
Name one nomadic tribe of medieval India.
Answer:

The Banjaras were a nomadic tribe.

Question 3:
What was the main occupation of the Gonds?
Answer:

The Gonds practiced shifting cultivation.

Question 4:
Which tribe ruled the Gondwana region?
Answer:

The Gond tribe ruled Gondwana.

Question 5:
Who was the founder of the Ahom kingdom?
Answer:

Sukapha founded the Ahom kingdom.

Question 6:
What type of houses did the Bhils live in?
Answer:

The Bhils lived in temporary huts.

Question 7:
Name a settled community from Rajasthan.
Answer:

The Jats were a settled community.

Question 8:
What was the primary trade of the Banjaras?
Answer:

The Banjaras traded salt and grain.

Question 9:
Which tribe is associated with forest produce?
Answer:

The Cheros collected forest produce.

Question 10:
Where did the Santhals primarily settle?
Answer:

The Santhals settled in Jharkhand.

Question 11:
What was the social structure of the Gonds?
Answer:

The Gonds had clan-based villages.

Question 12:
Name a festival celebrated by the Ahoms.
Answer:

The Ahoms celebrated Bihu.

Question 13:
Which tribe established the Gond Kingdom?
Answer:

The Gonds established their own kingdom.

Question 14:
What was the jhum cultivation method?
Answer:

It was slash-and-burn farming.

Question 15:
Who were the Bhils known as?
Answer:

The Bhils were known as skilled archers.

Question 16:
Name a settled community in medieval India.
Answer:

The Rajputs were a settled community.

Question 17:
What was the role of Banjaras in trade?
Answer:

They transported goods as carriers.

Question 18:
Which tribe lived in the northeastern forests?
Answer:

The Nagas lived there.

Question 19:
What did nomadic tribes depend on?
Answer:

They depended on livestock.

Question 20:
Name a powerful Gond queen.
Answer:

Queen Durgavati was a Gond ruler.

Question 21:
What was the Ahom administration called?
Answer:

It was called Paik system.

Question 22:
Which tribe resisted Mughal rule?
Answer:

The Santhals resisted Mughals.

Question 23:
What did settled communities practice?
Answer:

They practiced agriculture.

Question 24:
Name one important ruler of the Gond kingdom.
Answer:

Rani Durgavati was a famous ruler of the Gond kingdom. She bravely fought against the Mughals to protect her kingdom.

Question 25:
What is nomadic pastoralism?
Answer:

Nomadic pastoralism is a way of life where communities move from place to place with their livestock in search of pasture and water. Examples include the Banjaras of India.

Question 26:
Why did tribal societies depend on forests?
Answer:

Tribal societies depended on forests for food, shelter, medicine, and livelihood. Forests provided resources like fruits, herbs, and wood for their daily needs.

Question 27:
What role did the Banjaras play in medieval India?
Answer:

The Banjaras were itinerant traders and transporters who carried goods like grain, salt, and textiles across regions using bullock caravans. They helped in the distribution of essential commodities.

Question 28:
How did the Ahoms administer their kingdom?
Answer:

The Ahoms ruled through a centralized administration with a council of ministers called Patra Mantris. They maintained records called Buranjis, which were historical chronicles.

Question 29:
What is shifting cultivation?
Answer:

Shifting cultivation is a farming method where forests are cleared by burning, crops are grown for a few years, and then the land is abandoned for regeneration. It is also called slash-and-burn agriculture.

Question 30:
Name a tribe that practiced hunting and gathering in medieval India.
Answer:

The Bhils were a tribe known for hunting and gathering in the forested regions of central and western India.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
Who were the Ahoms and where did they establish their kingdom?
Answer:

The Ahoms were a tribal group who migrated from present-day Myanmar. They established their kingdom in the Brahmaputra Valley (modern-day Assam). They ruled for nearly 600 years and were known for their strong military and administrative systems.

Question 2:
Name two important tribes of the northeastern region of India.
Answer:

Two important tribes of the northeastern region are the Nagas and the Khasi. Both tribes have distinct cultures, languages, and social structures.

Question 3:
How did the Banjaras contribute to trade in medieval India?
Answer:

The Banjaras were nomadic traders who transported goods like grains, salt, and textiles across long distances using bullocks. They played a key role in connecting different regions and supporting the economy.

Question 4:
What is the significance of the Bhuiyans in tribal history?
Answer:

The Bhuiyans were a landowning tribal group in Odisha and Bengal. They resisted external domination and played a crucial role in preserving their cultural identity and autonomy.

Question 5:
Why did some tribes practice shifting cultivation?
Answer:

Shifting cultivation was practiced because it suited the forest environment. Tribes cleared small patches of land, grew crops, and moved to new areas once the soil lost fertility. This method ensured sustainable use of land.

Question 6:
Describe the social structure of the Bhils.
Answer:

The Bhils had a clan-based society led by a chief. They lived in small settlements, practiced agriculture, and were skilled archers. Their social customs and traditions were deeply rooted in nature.

Question 7:
What role did tribes play in the Mughal administration?
Answer:

Some tribes, like the Gonds and Ahoms, were integrated into the Mughal administrative system as allies or vassals. Others resisted Mughal control, maintaining their independence.

Question 8:
How did the Cheros organize their society?
Answer:

The Cheros were organized into small kingdoms with a hierarchical structure. They were primarily agriculturists and had a strong warrior tradition. Their society was governed by local chiefs.

Question 9:
What were the main features of the Khokhar tribe?
Answer:

The Khokhars were a warrior tribe in Punjab. They resisted foreign invasions and were known for their bravery. Later, some of them became part of the Mughal army.

Question 10:
Why did settled communities often clash with nomadic tribes?
Answer:

Settled communities and nomadic tribes clashed due to competition for resources like land and water. Nomads were often seen as outsiders, leading to conflicts over territory and trade.

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
Explain the term nomadic pastoralism and how it differs from settled agriculture.
Answer:

Nomadic pastoralism is a way of life where communities move from place to place with their herds of animals in search of pasture and water. Unlike settled agriculture, where farmers cultivate the same land permanently, nomadic pastoralists do not stay in one place for long.

Key differences:

  • Nomadic pastoralists rely on livestock, while settled farmers grow crops.
  • Pastoralists move seasonally, whereas farmers live in permanent villages.
  • Pastoralism is common in dry or hilly regions where farming is difficult.

This lifestyle allowed pastoralists to adapt to harsh environments and trade animal products with settled communities.

Question 2:
Describe the social structure of the Gond tribe during medieval India.
Answer:

The Gond tribe, one of the largest tribal groups in medieval India, had a well-organized social structure.

Features:

  • They lived in clans called ‘pandas’, each led by a ‘rai’ or chief.
  • Society was divided into smaller groups based on occupation and lineage.
  • They practiced shifting agriculture and respected nature.

The Gonds also had their own dialects and worshipped spirits of nature. Their kingdom, Gondwana, was powerful and even resisted Mughal rule for a long time.

Question 3:
How did tribal communities contribute to the economy of medieval India?
Answer:

Tribal communities played a vital role in the medieval Indian economy.

Contributions:

  • They supplied forest products like honey, wax, and herbs to settled communities.
  • Some tribes, like the Bhils, acted as guides and protectors for traders.
  • Nomadic tribes facilitated trade by transporting goods across regions.

Additionally, tribes like the Cheros mined iron and copper, which were essential for tools and weapons. Their skills in hunting, weaving, and metalwork enriched local markets.

Question 4:
What were the main occupations of the Ahom tribe? How did they adapt to their environment?
Answer:

The Ahoms, who ruled Assam, were skilled in wet rice cultivation and warfare.

Occupations:

  • Farming: They built ‘dangs’ (raised fields) to grow rice in flood-prone areas.
  • Metalwork: They crafted weapons and tools from locally available iron.
  • Administration: They maintained detailed land records called ‘bahis’.

Their adaptation included constructing embankments to control floods and adopting new farming techniques from captured prisoners, showing their flexibility.

Question 5:
Why did some tribal groups resist the authority of larger kingdoms in medieval India?
Answer:

Many tribal groups resisted larger kingdoms to protect their independence and way of life.

Reasons:

  • They feared losing control over their land and forests to kings or zamindars.
  • Taxation and forced labor imposed by kingdoms disrupted their self-sufficient lifestyle.
  • Religious and cultural differences made them distrustful of outside rulers.

For example, the Santhals rebelled against the British later, showing a long history of resistance to domination.

Question 6:
Compare the lifestyle of the Banjaras with that of settled farming communities.
Answer:

The Banjaras were nomadic traders, while settled farmers lived in villages.

Comparison:

  • Movement: Banjaras traveled with bullock caravans; farmers stayed in one place.
  • Economy: Banjaras transported goods like grain and salt; farmers grew crops.
  • Housing: Banjaras lived in temporary tents; farmers built permanent homes.

Despite differences, both groups depended on each other—Banjaras supplied farmers with goods, and farmers provided grain for trade.

Question 7:
Describe the social structure of the Gond tribes during medieval India.
Answer:

The Gond tribes had a well-organized social structure. They were divided into smaller clans, each led by a chieftain or raja. The society was egalitarian, with equal importance given to men and women in daily activities.

Key features:

  • They practiced shifting agriculture and hunted for food.
  • Gonds worshipped nature and their own tribal deities.
  • They had a strong oral tradition, passing down stories and customs through generations.

Question 8:
How did the Banjaras contribute to the economy of medieval India?
Answer:

The Banjaras were itinerant traders and transporters who played a vital role in the medieval economy. They transported goods like grain, salt, and textiles across long distances using bullocks.

Their contributions included:

  • Connecting remote areas with markets, boosting trade.
  • Supplying food grains to armies during wars.
  • Acting as a link between farmers and urban consumers.

Question 9:
What were the main occupations of the Ahom tribe, and how did they adapt to their environment?
Answer:

The Ahom tribe primarily practiced wet rice cultivation, which suited the fertile Brahmaputra valley. They also engaged in fishing and weaving.

Adaptations:

  • They built dykes and canals to control floods and irrigate fields.
  • Used terrace farming in hilly areas.
  • Developed a unique paik system where every adult male had to contribute labor to the state.

Question 10:
Why did some tribal communities resist the authority of the Mughals?
Answer:

Many tribal communities resisted Mughal authority due to:

  • Loss of autonomy over their land and resources.
  • Heavy taxes imposed on them, which disrupted their traditional economy.
  • Forced conversion or interference in their cultural practices.

Tribes like the Bhils and Gonds often rebelled to protect their way of life.

Question 11:
Compare the lifestyle of hunter-gatherer tribes with that of settled agricultural communities.
Answer:

Key differences:

  • Hunter-gatherers relied on wild plants and animals, while settled communities grew crops and domesticated animals.
  • Hunter-gatherers moved frequently, whereas agriculturalists lived in permanent villages.
  • Settled communities developed complex social hierarchies, while tribal societies were more egalitarian.

Settled agriculture led to surplus production and the rise of towns, unlike hunter-gatherer lifestyles.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
Explain how the Gonds and Ahoms were different from other tribal communities in terms of their political systems and cultural practices.
Answer:
Historical Context

We studied that the Gonds and Ahoms were prominent tribal groups in medieval India. Unlike other tribes, they established strong kingdoms.

Key Developments
  • The Gonds ruled the Gondwana region and had a centralized administration.
  • The Ahoms adopted Hinduism but retained their tribal customs.
  • Both built forts and maintained armies.
Socio-economic Impact

Their kingdoms promoted trade and agriculture. Our textbook shows the Gonds practiced shifting cultivation, while the Ahoms introduced wet rice farming.

Current Relevance

Their legacy is seen in regional festivals and architecture.

Question 2:
Describe the lifestyle of nomadic pastoralists like the Banjaras and their role in the economy of medieval India.
Answer:
Historical Context

Nomadic pastoralists, such as the Banjaras, were vital for transporting goods across regions.

Key Developments
  • They moved with their cattle and traded salt, grain, and cloth.
  • The Banjaras used bullocks to carry heavy loads.
  • They acted as a link between villages and towns.
Socio-economic Impact

Our textbook shows they supported farmers and armies during wars. Their trade networks boosted local economies.

Current Relevance

Modern transporters and migrant workers reflect their legacy.

Question 3:
Compare the settled agricultural communities with tribal societies in terms of their social structure and occupation.
Answer:
Historical Context

Settled communities and tribal societies coexisted but had distinct lifestyles.

Key Developments
  • Settled farmers followed caste hierarchies, while tribes like the Bhils were egalitarian.
  • Farmers grew crops like wheat, whereas tribes practiced hunting or shifting cultivation.
  • Villages had artisans, but tribes were self-reliant.
Socio-economic Impact

Our textbook mentions how settled areas had markets, while tribes traded forest produce.

Current Relevance

Today, tribal land rights and farming practices remain debated.

Question 4:
Analyze how the Bhakti movement influenced tribal and nomadic communities in medieval India.
Answer:
Historical Context

The Bhakti movement preached equality and devotion, attracting marginalized groups.

Key Developments
  • Saints like Kabir and Nanak rejected caste divisions.
  • Tribes such as the Gonds adopted Bhakti ideas.
  • Nomadic Banjaras spread these teachings during travels.
Socio-economic Impact

Our textbook shows it unified diverse communities and challenged social hierarchies.

Current Relevance

Bhakti ideals still inspire movements for social justice.

Question 5:
Discuss the challenges faced by tribal rulers like the Gonds and Ahoms in resisting Mughal expansion.
Answer:
Historical Context

Tribal kingdoms resisted Mughal dominance to protect their autonomy.

Key Developments
  • The Gonds fought under Rani Durgavati but were defeated.
  • The Ahoms won battles like Saraighat using guerrilla tactics.
  • Mughals demanded heavy taxes, weakening tribal economies.
Socio-economic Impact

Our textbook shows how resistance shaped regional identities. Forests provided refuge for tribes.

Current Relevance

Their struggles are remembered in folk songs and regional history.

Question 6:
Explain how the Gonds and Ahoms were different from other tribes in terms of their political systems and settlement patterns.
Answer:
Historical Context

We studied that the Gonds and Ahoms were prominent tribes in medieval India. The Gonds lived in forested regions, while the Ahoms migrated from Myanmar.

Key Developments
  • Gonds had clan-based governance under leaders like Rani Durgavati.
  • Ahoms established a centralized monarchy with a strong army.
Socio-economic Impact

Gonds practiced shifting agriculture, while Ahoms introduced wet rice cultivation.

Current Relevance

Their legacies are seen in modern tribal policies and cultural practices.

Question 7:
Describe the role of nomadic pastoralists like the Banjaras in medieval India's economy and trade.
Answer:
Historical Context

Our textbook shows that the Banjaras were vital for transporting goods across regions.

Key Developments
  • They moved with cattle herds, carrying grain and salt.
  • They connected farmers to markets, aiding trade.
Socio-economic Impact

Their mobility helped during famines by supplying food.

Current Relevance

Modern transporters and migrant workers reflect their role in logistics.

Question 8:
Compare the livelihoods of the Bhil and Santhal tribes, highlighting their adaptations to their environments.
Answer:
Historical Context

The Bhils lived in hilly forests, while the Santals settled in fertile plains.

Key Developments
  • Bhils practiced hunting and gathering.
  • Santals cultivated crops like rice and pulses.
Socio-economic Impact

Bhils relied on forest resources, while Santals developed agrarian systems.

Current Relevance

Their lifestyles influence modern tribal land rights and conservation efforts.

Question 9:
Analyze how the Rajput clans and tribal societies interacted during the medieval period.
Answer:
Historical Context

Rajputs and tribes like the Gonds often clashed or allied for power.

Key Developments
  • Rajputs annexed tribal lands for expansion.
  • Some tribes, like the Bhuiyans, resisted Rajput rule.
Socio-economic Impact

This led to cultural exchanges but also displacement of tribes.

Current Relevance

Such histories shape today's tribal identity movements.

Question 10:
Discuss the significance of oral traditions in preserving the history of nomadic and tribal communities.
Answer:
Historical Context

Many tribes lacked written records, relying on folk songs and stories.

Key Developments
  • Bhils passed down legends of heroes like Raja Punja.
  • Ahoms maintained Buranjis, chronicles of their rule.
Socio-economic Impact

Oral traditions kept their cultures alive despite external pressures.

Current Relevance

Modern efforts document these traditions to protect tribal heritage.

Question 11:
Explain the lifestyle of nomadic tribes in medieval India and how it differed from settled communities. Provide examples to support your answer.
Answer:

The lifestyle of nomadic tribes in medieval India was vastly different from that of settled communities. Nomadic tribes, such as the Banjaras, were constantly on the move, traveling from one place to another with their animals and belongings. They relied on trade, herding, and hunting for survival. For example, the Banjaras transported goods like grain and salt across long distances using bullocks.

In contrast, settled communities lived in permanent villages or towns and practiced agriculture as their primary occupation. They built houses, cultivated crops, and followed a structured social system. For instance, the Jats were a settled farming community in northern India.

Key differences include:

  • Nomads had no permanent homes, while settled communities lived in fixed locations.
  • Nomads depended on mobility for livelihood, whereas settled people relied on farming and crafts.
  • Nomadic tribes often had looser social hierarchies compared to the rigid caste systems in settled societies.

Question 12:
Describe the role of tribal societies in the economy and culture of medieval India. How did they interact with other communities?
Answer:

Tribal societies played a significant role in the economy and culture of medieval India. Economically, tribes like the Gonds and Bhils contributed by gathering forest produce, hunting, and practicing shifting agriculture. They supplied honey, herbs, and timber to settled communities, which were vital for trade and daily life.

Culturally, tribal societies enriched Indian traditions with their unique art, music, and festivals. For example, the Warli tribe is known for its distinctive paintings, while the Santhals contributed folk dances like the Chhau.

Interactions with other communities were both cooperative and conflicting:

  • Trade: Tribes exchanged goods with settled farmers and traders.
  • Conflict: Sometimes, tribes resisted taxation or domination by kingdoms, leading to clashes.
  • Assimilation: Over time, some tribes merged into larger Hindu or Islamic societies, adopting new customs while retaining their identity.

Question 13:
Explain the lifestyle of the nomadic tribes in medieval India and how it differed from the settled communities. Provide examples to support your answer.
Answer:

The lifestyle of nomadic tribes in medieval India was vastly different from that of settled communities. Nomadic tribes, such as the Banjaras, moved from place to place with their animals and belongings. They did not have permanent homes and relied on trade, herding, or hunting for survival. For example, the Banjaras transported goods like grain and salt across regions using bullocks.

In contrast, settled communities lived in villages or towns, practiced agriculture, and had permanent homes. They followed a structured social system and paid taxes to rulers. For instance, farmers in the Delhi Sultanate cultivated crops like wheat and rice and were part of a rigid caste system.

Key differences include:

  • Mobility: Nomads were always on the move, while settled people stayed in one place.
  • Occupation: Nomads relied on trade or herding, whereas settled communities focused on farming.
  • Social Structure: Settled communities had a strict hierarchy, while nomads had more flexible social roles.

Question 14:
Describe the social and economic practices of the Gond tribe during the medieval period. How did they organize their society?
Answer:

The Gond tribe was one of the largest tribal groups in medieval India, primarily living in forested regions like Gondwana. They had a well-organized society with distinct social and economic practices.

Social Practices:

  • The Gonds were divided into clans, each led by a Raja or chief.
  • They followed animism, worshipping spirits of nature, though some later adopted Hinduism.
  • Their society was relatively egalitarian, with no strict caste divisions.

Economic Practices:

  • They practiced shifting agriculture (slash-and-burn), growing crops like millets and pulses.
  • They collected forest produce such as honey, herbs, and wood for trade.
  • Some Gond kingdoms, like Garha Katanga, even minted their own coins and collected taxes.

The Gonds were skilled warriors and resisted outside domination for a long time. Their society was a mix of tribal traditions and influences from neighboring kingdoms.

Question 15:
Describe the social and economic organization of the Gond tribes during the medieval period. How did their system differ from other tribal groups?
Answer:

The Gond tribes were one of the largest tribal groups in medieval India, known for their well-organized social and economic systems. Socially, they were divided into clans, each led by a chieftain or raja, who governed with the help of a council of elders. The Gonds practiced shifting agriculture, also known as jhum cultivation, where they cleared forests, cultivated the land for a few years, and then moved to new areas.

Economically, the Gonds were self-sufficient. They traded forest produce like honey, timber, and medicinal herbs with neighboring settled communities. Unlike other nomadic tribes, the Gonds established small kingdoms, such as the Gondwana region, and even had their own coinage.

Differences from other tribal groups:

  • Political Structure: The Gonds had centralized kingdoms, while tribes like the Bhils were more decentralized.
  • Agriculture: The Gonds practiced shifting cultivation, whereas the Banjaras were primarily pastoralists.
  • Trade: The Gonds engaged in forest-based trade, unlike the Santhals, who focused on farming.
This organization made the Gonds unique among medieval tribal communities.

Question 16:
Describe the social and economic organization of the Gond tribe during the medieval period. How did their governance system function?
Answer:

The Gond tribe was one of the largest tribal groups in medieval India, primarily located in present-day Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Chhattisgarh. Their social and economic organization was well-structured and unique.

Social Organization: The Gonds lived in clans called parganas, each led by a chief known as the Raja or Sangram Shah. Society was divided into smaller units like villages, headed by a patel. They practiced shifting agriculture (jhum) and also hunted or gathered forest produce.

Economic Organization: Their economy was based on:

  • Agriculture: They grew crops like millets and pulses.
  • Forest Produce: Collected honey, herbs, and timber.
  • Trade: Exchanged goods with neighboring communities.

Governance System: The Gonds had a decentralized system where each pargana was autonomous. The Raja made decisions with the help of councils comprising elders and warriors. They maintained their own armies and even established small kingdoms, like the Gondwana kingdom under Queen Durgavati.

Their system was efficient and adapted to their environment, ensuring survival and prosperity.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
The Gonds were a powerful tribe in central India. How did their settled agricultural practices influence their society and economy?
Answer:
Case Context

We studied the Gonds, who practiced settled agriculture in forests and plains.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • They grew crops like millets, enhancing food security.
  • Their clan-based system ensured land distribution.
  • Trade with neighboring kingdoms boosted their economy.
Current Relevance

Modern Gond communities still farm traditionally, preserving their heritage.

Question 2:
Compare the nomadic lifestyle of the Banjaras with the settled life of the Ahoms. Give two differences.
Answer:
Case Context

Our textbook shows Banjaras were cattle-herders, while Ahoms were rice cultivators.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • Banjaras moved seasonally for trade; Ahoms built permanent villages.
  • Banjaras used bullock carts; Ahoms developed irrigation systems.
Current Relevance

Banjaras’ descendants remain mobile, while Ahom culture thrives in Assam.

Question 3:
Why did tribes like the Bhils and Santhals resist British rule? Provide three reasons.
Answer:
Case Context

We learned Bhils and Santhals fought British forest laws.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • British restricted shifting cultivation, their livelihood.
  • Heavy taxes forced them into debt.
  • Land grabs disrupted their tribal autonomy.
Current Relevance

Their struggles inspire modern tribal rights movements.

Question 4:
How did the Ahom kingdom assimilate tribal and non-tribal cultures? Give examples.
Answer:
Case Context

The Ahoms ruled Assam and blended local traditions.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • They adopted Hinduism but kept tribal rituals.
  • Assamese language merged with Tai-Ahom dialects.
  • Paik system integrated tribes into administration.
Current Relevance

Assam’s culture today reflects this fusion.

Question 5:
Compare the lifestyle of the Gond tribes with the Ahom kingdom. How did geography influence their settlements?
Answer:
Case Context

We studied Gond tribes in forests and Ahoms in Brahmaputra valley.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • Gonds: Hunter-gatherers in central India
  • Ahoms: Rice cultivators near rivers
  • Gonds lived in temporary huts; Ahoms built permanent structures
Current Relevance

Modern Gond tribes still practice traditional arts; Ahom culture influences Assam's festivals.

Question 6:
Why did nomadic pastoralists like the Banjaras move seasonally? Give three reasons with examples from our textbook.
Answer:
Case Context

Banjaras transported goods for Mughal armies.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • Search for pasture (Example: Cattle grazing)
  • Trade opportunities (Example: Salt and grain transport)
  • Climate adaptation (Example: Avoiding drought areas)
Current Relevance

Modern Gujjars in Himalayas still practice seasonal migration.

Question 7:
How did tribal societies differ from caste-based societies in medieval India? Use examples of Bhils and Rajputs.
Answer:
Case Context

Bhils were forest-dwellers while Rajputs ruled kingdoms.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • Bhils: Equal society, shared resources
  • Rajputs: Hierarchical with kings and peasants
  • Bhils worshipped nature; Rajputs built temples
Current Relevance

Bhil art survives in Rajasthan; Rajput forts are tourist sites.

Question 8:
Explain three ways settled agriculture changed tribal lives, using examples from the Garo hills and Vindhyas.
Answer:
Case Context

Garo practiced jhum; Vindhya tribes took to farming.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • Permanent homes (Example: Mud houses)
  • New tools (Example: Iron ploughs)
  • Surplus production (Example: Grain storage)
Current Relevance

Garo still grow rice; Vindhya farmers use modern techniques.

Question 9:
The Gonds were a powerful tribe in central India. Case Context: Describe their settled agricultural practices and how they differed from nomadic tribes like the Banjaras.
Answer:
Case Context:

We studied that the Gonds practiced settled agriculture, growing crops like wheat and rice. They lived in villages with well-defined territories.

Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Gonds built tanks for irrigation, unlike nomadic Banjaras who moved with cattle.
  • Our textbook shows Gond kingdoms like Garha Katanga had permanent settlements.
  • Banjaras transported goods, while Gonds focused on farming.
Current Relevance:

Today, Gond tribes still farm, but many face land displacement issues.

Question 10:
The Ahom kingdom (13th-18th century) ruled Assam. Case Context: Explain how their military strategies and rice cultivation helped them thrive.
Answer:
Case Context:

The Ahoms used advanced military tactics like guerrilla warfare and built forts.

Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • They introduced wet rice cultivation, boosting food supply.
  • Our textbook mentions their navy controlled Brahmaputra river.
  • They assimilated tribes like Nagas into their army.
Current Relevance:

Assam still grows rice using Ahom-era techniques, showing their lasting impact.

Question 11:
Compare the livelihoods of Himalayan pastoral tribes (like Gujjars) with desert nomads (like Raikas). Case Context: Focus on seasonal movements.
Answer:
Case Context:

Gujjars move uphill in summer, while Raikas travel across Thar desert.

Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Gujjars graze buffaloes in alpine meadows (textbook example).
  • Raikas herd camels and sheep, trading wool.
  • Both follow cyclical routes for fodder/water.
Current Relevance:

Climate change now disrupts these traditional migration patterns.

Question 12:
The Bhakti saints influenced tribal societies. Case Context: Analyze how Kabir’s teachings challenged caste divisions among tribes like Gonds and Bhils.
Answer:
Case Context:

Kabir preached equality, attracting tribal followers.

Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Gonds adopted Bhakti to resist Brahmanical dominance.
  • Textbook shows Bhils composed Bhakti poems in local dialects.
  • Saints like Ravidas came from tribal backgrounds.
Current Relevance:

Modern tribal movements still use Bhakti songs for social justice.

Question 13:

Read the following case study and answer the question:

The Gonds were one of the largest tribal groups in India, known for their self-sufficient lifestyle. They practiced shifting agriculture, called jhum, and lived in forested regions. Over time, some Gond chiefs established small kingdoms and adopted settled agricultural practices.

Question: How did the lifestyle of the Gonds change from being nomadic tribes to settled communities? Explain with reasons.

Answer:

The Gonds transitioned from a nomadic to a settled lifestyle due to several factors:

  • Adoption of Agriculture: They shifted from jhum (shifting cultivation) to settled farming, which provided a stable food supply.
  • Formation of Kingdoms: Powerful Gond chiefs established small kingdoms, leading to centralized administration and settled habitats.
  • Interaction with Settled Communities: Trade and cultural exchanges with neighboring settled societies influenced their lifestyle.

This change improved their socio-economic conditions and helped them integrate into larger regional networks.

Question 14:

Read the following case study and answer the question:

The Banjaras were a well-known nomadic tribe in medieval India. They transported goods like grain, salt, and textiles across long distances using bullocks. Their mobility allowed them to serve as vital traders between villages and towns.

Question: Why were the Banjaras important for the economy of medieval India? Explain their role in trade and transportation.

Answer:

The Banjaras played a crucial role in medieval India's economy due to:

  • Trade Networks: They transported essential goods like grain, salt, and textiles, connecting remote villages to urban markets.
  • Mobility: Their nomadic lifestyle enabled them to travel long distances, ensuring the flow of goods even in difficult terrains.
  • Economic Link: They acted as intermediaries between producers and consumers, supporting local and regional trade.

Without the Banjaras, the exchange of goods would have been slower, affecting the medieval economy.

Question 15:

Read the following case study and answer the question:

The Gonds were one of the largest tribal groups in India, known for their forest-based economy and unique social structure. They practiced shifting agriculture and had a decentralized political system. However, with the arrival of settled communities and British rule, their way of life changed significantly.

Question: How did the Gonds adapt to the changes brought by settled communities and British rule? Explain any two adaptations.

Answer:

The Gonds adapted to the changes in the following ways:

  • Adoption of Plough Agriculture: Due to pressure from settled communities, many Gonds shifted from shifting cultivation to plough-based agriculture, which allowed them to cultivate the same land repeatedly.
  • Integration into Larger Kingdoms: Some Gond chiefs aligned with powerful kingdoms or the British, accepting their authority in exchange for protection or land rights, leading to a more centralized political system.

These adaptations helped them survive but also led to a loss of their traditional practices.

Question 16:

Read the following case study and answer the question:

The Banjaras were nomadic tribes known for their trading and transportation activities. They traveled long distances with their cattle, carrying goods like salt, grains, and textiles. Their mobility allowed them to connect different regions economically.

Question: How did the Banjaras contribute to the economy of medieval India? Provide two key contributions.

Answer:

The Banjaras played a crucial role in the medieval Indian economy:

  • Trade Network Expansion: They transported essential goods like salt, grains, and textiles across regions, helping in the distribution of resources and connecting markets.
  • Support to Armies: They supplied food and provisions to military campaigns, ensuring armies could operate in remote areas without logistical issues.

Their mobility made them indispensable to both local economies and large empires.

Question 17:

Read the following case study and answer the question below:

The Gonds were one of the largest tribal groups in India, known for their unique social and political systems. They lived in forested regions and practiced shifting agriculture. Their society was divided into clans, each with its own chief. The Gond kingdom of Garha Katanga was a powerful state in the 16th century.

Question: How did the Gonds organize their society, and what was the significance of the Gond kingdom of Garha Katanga?

Answer:

The Gonds organized their society into clans, each led by a chief. These clans were close-knit communities that lived in forested areas and practiced shifting agriculture, also known as jhum cultivation. Their social structure was based on mutual cooperation and respect for nature.

The Gond kingdom of Garha Katanga was significant because it was one of the most powerful tribal states in the 16th century. It had a well-organized administration and a strong army. The kingdom was also known for its wealth, including thousands of villages and a large number of elephants, which were a symbol of power.

This kingdom shows how tribal communities could establish and maintain large and prosperous states, challenging the notion that only settled agricultural societies could build empires.

Question 18:

Read the following case study and answer the question below:

The Banjaras were a well-known nomadic tribe in medieval India. They traveled long distances with their cattle and traded goods like salt, grains, and cattle. They played a crucial role in transporting goods across regions where wheeled carts could not reach.

Question: Describe the role of the Banjaras in the economy of medieval India and explain how their lifestyle was suited to their occupation.

Answer:

The Banjaras were vital to the medieval Indian economy as they acted as mobile traders and transporters. They carried essential goods like salt, grains, and cattle across regions, especially in areas where roads were poor or non-existent. Their trade helped connect distant markets and ensured the availability of goods in remote areas.

Their nomadic lifestyle was perfectly suited to their occupation because:

  • They traveled in large groups called tandas, which provided safety and efficiency in transport.
  • They used pack animals like oxen and bullocks to carry heavy loads over rough terrain.
  • Their knowledge of routes and seasons allowed them to move goods when demand was high.

The Banjaras' adaptability and mobility made them indispensable to the medieval economy, bridging gaps between settled communities and remote regions.

Question 19:
Read the following case study:

The Gonds were one of the largest tribal groups in India, known for their unique social and political structures. They lived in forested regions and practiced shifting agriculture. Their society was divided into clans, each with its own customs and traditions.

Based on the case, answer:

How did the Gonds adapt to their forested environment, and what was the significance of their clan system?

Answer:

The Gonds adapted to their forested environment by practicing shifting agriculture, also known as jhum cultivation. They cleared small patches of forest, grew crops for a few years, and then moved to new areas, allowing the land to recover. This sustainable method suited their environment.

Their society was organized into clans, which played a crucial role in maintaining social order. Each clan had its own:

  • Customs and traditions
  • Leadership structure
  • Land rights and responsibilities

The clan system strengthened community bonds and ensured fair distribution of resources. It also helped preserve their cultural identity.

Question 20:
Analyze the case below:

The Banjaras were nomadic pastoralists who traveled long distances with their cattle. They played a vital role in transporting goods like grain and salt across regions. Their mobility allowed them to connect settled communities.

Based on this, explain:

How did the Banjaras contribute to the economy of medieval India, and why was their nomadic lifestyle advantageous?

Answer:

The Banjaras contributed to the medieval Indian economy by:

  • Transporting essential goods like grain, salt, and other commodities across regions
  • Acting as a link between producers and consumers in different areas
  • Supporting trade networks by moving goods where wheeled transport was difficult

Their nomadic lifestyle was advantageous because:

  • It allowed them to avoid land taxes imposed on settled communities
  • They could move their herds to fresh pastures, ensuring cattle health
  • Their mobility made them valuable for armies needing supply transport

This unique lifestyle made them indispensable to the medieval economy.

Question 21:
Read the following case study: Gond tribes were known for their unique social structure and livelihood practices. They lived in forests and practiced shifting agriculture. Analyze how their lifestyle was different from the settled agricultural communities of the Delhi Sultanate period.
Answer:

The Gond tribes and the settled agricultural communities of the Delhi Sultanate had distinct lifestyles due to their different social and economic practices.

  • Livelihood: The Gonds practiced shifting agriculture, where they cleared forest patches, cultivated crops for a few years, and then moved to new areas. In contrast, settled communities practiced fixed agriculture with permanent fields and advanced irrigation techniques.
  • Social Structure: The Gonds had a tribal hierarchy with clan-based leadership, while settled communities followed a more centralized system under the Delhi Sultanate, with landlords and peasants.
  • Housing: The Gonds lived in temporary huts made of forest materials, whereas settled communities built permanent houses using bricks and wood.
  • Economy: The Gonds relied on forest produce and hunting, while settled communities traded surplus crops in markets.

These differences highlight how geography and resources shaped their lifestyles.

Question 22:
Case Study: The Ahom kingdom in Assam had a unique administrative system. They incorporated elements from both tribal traditions and settled kingdoms. Explain how the Ahom administration blended these two systems.
Answer:

The Ahom kingdom successfully merged tribal traditions with settled kingdom practices to create a strong administrative system.

  • Clan-Based Governance: Initially, the Ahoms followed a tribal system with clans (khels) managing local affairs. Later, they adopted a centralized monarchy like settled kingdoms.
  • Land Revenue: They introduced a paik system, where every adult male had to contribute labor or military service, similar to tribal customs. However, they also collected land revenue like settled kingdoms.
  • Military: The Ahoms used tribal guerrilla warfare tactics but also maintained a standing army like other kingdoms.
  • Cultural Integration: They adopted Hinduism but retained their tribal rituals, creating a unique blend.

This fusion helped the Ahom kingdom thrive for centuries.

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