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Indian Polity MCQs – 6 (Union and it’s Territory)

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Indian Polity MCQs and Mock Tests

Indian Polity MCQs – 6 (Union and it’s Territory)

Union and it’s Territory MCQs with answers and explanations for preparation of UPSC, BPSC, UPPSC and other State PSC Examinations

Free Mock Tests

Build Your Basics

1. In the Constitution of India, The term ‘Federal’ is mentioned in :

(a) Preamble

(b) Part-III of the Constitution 

(c) Article 368 of the Constitution 

(d) Not mentioned anywhere

Correct Answer:  (d) Not mentioned anywhere

  • Term ‘Federal’ is not mentioned in the constitution.
  • Article – 1 describes India ‘that is Bharat’  as a ‘Union of States’ .
  • Reasons for calling India ‘Union’ and NOT a Federation:
    •  India is not the result of an agreement among the states like the American Federation.
    • In India, The states can not break away from the union. The Union is indestructible which integrates various destructible states.

2. Consider the following statements with reference to the linguistic reorganization of states in independent India:

  1. The separate state of Andhra for the Telugu people came into existence in 1953.
  2. Jawaharlal Nehru was particularly in favor of the movement for linguistic reorganization of states that came in the wake of the success of the Andhra movement.

Which one of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) Only 1

(b) Only 2

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Correct Answer: (a) Only 1

  • The separate state of Andhra for the Telugu people came into existence in 1953.
  • The Linguistic Provinces committee consisting of Jawahar Lal Nehru, Sardar Vallahbhai Patel and Pattabhi Sitaramayya, submitted its report in April 1949.
  • It rejected language as the basis for reorganization of states.

3. Consider the following statements:

  1. Parliament can increase the area of any state without the consent of the state legislature.
  2. Parliament can alter the name of any state without the consent of the state legislature.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Solution: (c) Both 1 and 2

  • Constitution of India rants following powers to the Parliament:
    • Parliament can form a new state by separating any territory from any state or by uniting two or more states
    • Parliament can form a new state by uniting any territory to any state
    • Parliament can increase the area of any state
    • Parliament can decrease the area of any state
    • Parliament can alter the boundaries of any state
    • Parliament can alter the name of any state.

A bill which proposes any of the above changes can be introduced in the Parliament only with the prior recommendation of the President. However, The President/Parliament is not bound by the views expressed by the state legislature and may either completely or partially accept or reject them.

4. In which schedule of Indian Constitution, the territorial extent of Indian states and union Territories is prescribed?

(a) 1st schedule 

(b) 2nd schedule 

(c) 3rd schedule 

(d) 4th schedule

Correct Answer: (a) 1st schedule

  • First schedule lists the states and territories of India.
  • Currently in 2023, there are 28 states and 8 Union territories in the country. 
  • Before 2019, there were 29 states in India, however, In 2019, Parliament passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, which  reorganized the state of J&K into two union territories – Jammu and Kashmir in the west and Ladakh in the east, with effect from 31 October 2019.

5. Consider the following statements:

  1. The Parliament is empowered to alter the boundaries of any existing State of India.
  2. A Bill pertaining to the alteration of the boundaries of any existing State of India can be introduced only in the Rajya Sabha with the prior recommendation of the President.

Which one of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a)  Only 1

(b)  Only 2

(c)  Both 1 and 2    

(d)  Neither 1 nor 2

Correct Answer: (a) Only 1

  • The Parliament is empowered to alter the boundaries of any existing State of India.
  • A Bill pertaining to the alteration of the boundaries of any existing State of India can be introduced in any house of the parliament with the prior recommendation of the President.

6. The boundary of a State in India can be altered through the procedure laid down in:

(a)  Article 368              

(b)  Article 130

(c)  Article 70                     

(d)  Article 3

Correct Answer: (d) Article 3

  • Article – 3 enables Parliament to alter the boundaries of any state.
  • A bill which proposes to alter the boundaries of any state can be introduced in the Parliament only with the prior recommendation of the President.
  • Before recommending the bill to Parliament, the President has to refer the same to the concerned state legislature for expressing its views within a specified period of time. 
  • The President/Parliament is not bound by the views expressed by the state legislature and may either completely or partially accept or reject them.

7. Who among the following was the head of the Linguistic Provinces Commission formed in the year 1948, to enquire into the desirability of linguistic provinces?

(a)  Jawaharlal Nehru                       

(b)  Justice S.K. Dhar

(c)  Justice Fazi Alt                         

(d)  Pattabhi Sitaramayya

Correct Answer: (b)  Justice S.K. Dhar

  • After the prolonged demand for reorganization of states on linguistic basis by various South Indian states, the Government of India appointed the Linguistic Provinces Commission under the chairmanship of S.K. Dhar to examine the viability of this.
  • However, the commission in its report rejected the idea of linguistic reorganization and recommended the reorganization of states on the basis of administrative convenience.

8. In 1953, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru formed a Commission to study the reorganization of states on a linguistic basis under the chairmanship of:

(a)  T.T. Krishnamachari                    

(b)  Vallabhbhai Patel

(c)  Fazl Ali                       

(d)  G.B. Pant

Correct Answer: (c)  Fazl Ali     

  • Following the Prolonged agitation and the death of Potti Sriramulu, the Government of India created the first linguistic state, known as Andhra state, by separating the Telugu speaking areas from the Madras state.
  • This further  intensified the demand from other regions for creation of states on linguistic basis.
  • Hence, the Government appointed a three member states Reorganisation Commission under the chairmanship of Fazl Ali and other two members being K.M. Panikkar and H.N. Kunzru.
  • The Commission submitted its report in September 1955 and on the whole accepted the linguistic reorganization of states.
  • Government of India accepted most of the recommendations of states Reorganisation Commission and Parliament passed States Reorganisation Act, 1956 and the 7th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1956.
  • This led to the creation of 14 states and 6 union territories on 1st November, 1956.

9. The Parliament of India passed the States Reorganisation Act in 1956 which created : 

(a)  16 States and 3 Union Territories         

(b)  15 States and 5 Union Territories

(c)  14 States and 6 Union Territories         

(d)  24 States and 9 Union Territories

Correct Answer:  (c)  14 States and 6 Union Territories   

  • States Reorganisation Act, 1956 created 14 states and 6 union territories.
  • More details in above question

10. The States of the India can be reorganized or their boundaries altered by:

(a)  The Union Parliament with a simple majority in the ordinary process of legislation.

(b) Two-thirds majority of both the Houses of Parliament.

(c) Two-thirds majority of both the Houses of Parliament and the consent of the legislature of the concerned States.

(d)  An executive order of the Union Government with the consent of the concerned State Governments.

Correct Answer: (a)  The Union Parliament with a simple majority in the ordinary process of legislation.

  • As per Article – 4,  laws made for the establishment of new states or changing the  areas, boundaries or names of existing states under Articles 2 OR 3 shall not be considered as amendments of the Constitution under Article 368.
  • Such laws can be passed by a simple majority and by following ordinary legislative process. However, prior recommendation of the President will be mandatory as mentioned above.

Also Read in Indian Polity MCQs :

Union and Its Territory(Part – 1 of the Constitution) | Indian Polity notes

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Indian Polity and Constitution

Union and Its Territory(Part - 1 of the Constitution)

Read in detail about the Union and Its Territory(Part – 1 of the Constitution)

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The first part of the Indian Constitution contains Articles 1 to 4. It deals with the Indian Union and its territories.

Let’s study them one and by one.

Article – 1 : 

  • It describes India ‘that is Bharat’  as a ‘Union of States’ and mentions the  territorial extent of India.
  • Although the Indian Constitution is federal in structure, the country is described as ‘Union’ in the constitution.
  • Reasons for calling India ‘Union’ and NOT a Federation:
    •  India is not the result of an agreement among the states like the American Federation.
    • In India, The states have no right to break away from the union. The Union is indestructible which integrates various destructible states.
  • Territory of India can be categorized into three different categories: 
    • Territories of the states.
    • Union territories.
    • Territories that may be acquired by India at any time as India is a sovereign nation.

Article – 2 : 

  • Grants two powers to the Parliament:
    • The power to admit into the Union of India new states.
    • The power to create entirely new states which might not be part of India previously. For example, Sikkim through a plebiscite, was made a part of India. 

Article – 3 : 

  • Grants following powers to the Parliament:
    • Parliament can form a new state by separating any territory from any state or by uniting two or more states
    • Parliament can form a new state by uniting any territory to any state
    • Parliament can increase the area of any state
    • Parliament can decrease the area of any state
    • Parliament can alter the boundaries of any state
    • Parliament can alter the name of any state.
  • However, the powers granted under article 3 are not absolute and the constitution adds following restrictions while proving above powers to parliament:
    • A bill which proposes any of the above changes can be introduced in the Parliament only with the prior recommendation of the President.
    • Before recommending the bill to Parliament, the President has to refer the same to the concerned state legislature for expressing its views within a specified period of time. 
    • The President/Parliament is not bound by the views expressed by the state legislature and may either completely or partially accept or reject them.
    • In case of a union territory with legislature like Delhi and Puducherry, the constitution clarifies that no such reference is required.

Article 3 has provided such powers to the parliament so that it can redraw the political map of India according to the demands of time and administrative convenience. 

A recent example is the formation of Ladakh as a union territory from the state of Jammu and Kashmir aimed to improve governance and cater to the needs of Ladakh’s people and at the same time highlighting that the unity and integrity of India is paramount.

As the territorial integrity of any Indian state is not guaranteed by the constitution hence India is described as ‘an indestructible union of destructible states’.

As the territorial integrity of the states in the USA is guaranteed by the Constitution, Hence, the USA is described as ‘an indestructible union of indestructible states.’ 

Article – 4 : 

  • It clarifies that the laws made for the establishment of new states or changing the  areas, boundaries or names of existing states under Articles 2 OR 3 shall not be considered as amendments of the Constitution under Article 368.
  • Such laws can be passed by a simple majority and by following ordinary legislative process. However, prior recommendation of the President will be mandatory as mentioned above.

Can Parliament cede/transfer Indian territory to any foreign country?

  • In Berubari Union case of 1960, The Supreme Court ruled that the power of parliament under Article 3 does not provide for the cession of Indian territory to a foreign country. 
  • Hence, Indian territory can only be transferred to a foreign state by amending the Constitution under Article 368.
  • The Supreme Court in 1969 ruled that the settlement of a boundary dispute between India and other countries does not require a constitutional amendment. It can be done by executive action.

Also Read in CivilsCracker Explains : Indian Polity

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Indian Polity MCQs – 5 (Preamble of the Indian constitution)

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Indian Polity MCQs and Mock Tests

Indian Polity MCQs – 5 (Preamble of the Indian constitution)

Preamble of the Indian constitution MCQs with answers and explanations for preparation of UPSC, BPSC, UPPSC and other State PSC Examinations

Free Mock Tests

Build Your Basics

1. Which of the following describes India as a secular state?

(a) Fundamental rights

(b) Directive principles of state policy

(c) Fifth schedule

(d) Preamble of the constitution

Correct Answer – (d) Preamble of the constitution

  • The Preamble of our constitution declares India to be a secular state.
  • The term ‘Secular’ was added to the Preamble by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976.
  • Indian secularism is influenced by the core Gandhian principle of ‘Sarva Dharma Sambhava’ meaning ‘equal respect for all religions.

2. Which of the following amendment acts amended the Preamble of the Indian constitution?

(a) 44th Amendment act

(b) 42nd Amendment act

(c) 56th Amendment act

(d) It has never been amended

Correct Answer – (b) 42nd Amendment act

  • So far, the Preamble has been amended only once by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976, which added three new words:
    1. Socialist
    2. Secular
    3. Integrity

3. The Supreme Court held that the Preamble is not a part of the constitution in which of the following cases/case?

(a) Berubari Union case (1960)

(b) Unni Krishnan vs Union of India

(c) Minerva Mills vs. The union of India and other states

(d) Sunil Batra vs. Delhi government

Correct Answer –  (a) Berubari Union case (1960)

  • In the Berubari union Case Supreme Court held that Preamble is not a part of the Constitution of India. The Supreme Court gave its judgment in 1960.
  • However, In the historic Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), The Supreme Court held that the Preamble is a part of the Constitution and reversed its previous opinion given in the Berubari Union case.

4. Consider the following statements about the Preamble of the Constitution and state which of them are correct with the help of given codes : 

  1. The objective resolution proposed by Pt. Nehru ultimately became the Preamble.
  2. It is not justiciable in nature.
  3. It cannot be amended.

Codes:

(a) 1 & 2 only

(b) 1,2 and 3 only

(c) 2 and 4 only

(d) All of the above

Correct Answer – (a) 1 & 2 only

  • The Preamble of our Constitution is based on the ‘Objectives Resolution’, drafted by Pandit Nehru and adopted by the Constituent Assembly in 1946.
  • In Kesavananda Bharati Vs The State of Kerala case, it was laid down by the Supreme Court that the Preamble of the Indian Constitution can be amended under article 368.
  • However those parts of the preamble which contain basic features can not be amended.
  • Preamble is not justiciable in nature.

5. The Preamble of the Indian constitution originally adopted on 26th November 1949 did not include the terms :

  1. Socialist
  2. Secular
  3. Integrity
  4. Republic

Select the correct answer from the codes given below :

(a) 1, 2 and 3

(b) 2, 3 and 4

(c) 1, 2 and 4

(d) 3 and 4

Correct Answer – (a) 1, 2 and 3

  • Three words ‘Socialist’, ‘Secular’ and ‘Integrity’ in the preamble of Indian constitution were added by 42nd amendment Act of 1976.

6. The idea of preamble has been borrowed in Indian Constitution from the Constitution of 

(a) Italy

(b) Canada 

(c) France 

(d) U.S.A.

Correct Answer – (d) U.S.A.

  • The idea of preamble to the Indian constitution has been borrowed from the constitution of the United States of America.
  • The American Constitution was the first constitution to start with a Preamble.

7. The Constitution of India provides following for its citizens:

(a) Social, Political and Religious justice

(b) Rocial, Economic and Cultural justice

(c) Social, Economic and Political justice

(d) Economic and Political justice

Correct Answer – (c) Social, Economic and Political justice

  • The Preamble states that the objectives constitution of India is to provide following justices to the people:
    • Social Justice – Meaning equal treatment of all citizens without any social distinction based on caste, color, race, religion, sex and so on.
    • Economic Justice – Meaning no discrimination/inequalities on the basis of economic factors such as wealth, income and property.
    • Political Justice – Meaning all citizens have equal political rights.

8. Which of the following terms is not used in the Preamble of our Constitution ?

(a) Republic

(b) Integrity

(c) Federal

(d) Socialist

Correct Answer – (c) Federal

  • The term Federal is not used in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution.
  • All other terms Republic, Socialist, Integrity are used in the constitution.

9. Which one of the following liberties is not embodied in the Preamble to the Constitution of India?

(a) Liberty of thought

(b) Liberty of expression

(c) Liberty of belief

(d) Liberty of Money

Correct Answer – (d) Liberty of Money

  • Liberty of Money is  not embodied in the Preamble to the Constitution of India
  • The Preamble provides to all citizens of India liberty of:
    • Thought
    • Expression 
    • Belief
    • Faith 
    • Worship

10. Consider the following statements in regard to the preamble of the Constitution of India;

  1. It provides political equality to its citizens.
  2. It provides liberty of faith to its citizens.
  3. It is given by the citizens of India to themselves.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer – (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Preamble to the constitution of India is given by the people of India to themselves.
  • The Preamble sets the objective of the constitution to provide its citizens justice(Social, Economic, Political), liberty(Thought, Expression, Belief, Faith and Worship) and equality.

Also Read in Indian Polity MCQs :

Preamble of the Indian Constitution

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Indian Polity and Constitution

Preamble of the Indian constitution

Read in detail about the Preamble of our constitution

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The Preamble of the Constitution of India is an introductory statement of 73 words which highlights the objectives, essence, core values and principles of the constitution.

Noteworthy points about the Preamble of the Constitution :

  • The Preamble of our Constitution is based on the ‘Objectives Resolution’, drafted by Pandit Nehru and adopted by the Constituent Assembly in 1946.
  • It was enacted after the enactment of the entire Constitution of India. It was to ensure that it was in consonance with the final Constitution as adopted by the Constituent Assembly.
  • Preamble is non-justiciable in nature, Meaning, The objectives/statements of the Preamble are not enforceable in courts of law.
  • It is neither a source of power to Parliament nor can it take away the powers of the legislature.
  • The Preamble indicates that the Constitution derives its authority from the people of India. 
  • The Preamble of Indian constitution proclaims Indian Nation to be:

    • Sovereign :  

      • Meaning India is not a dependency/Colony/dominion of any other nation. 
      • It is an independent state which can undertake its duties both internally and externally. 
      • Being a sovereign nation, India can even acquire a foreign territory or cede a part of its territory to a foreign state.

    • Secular :

      • Meaning All religions in the nation (irrespective of their numerical strength) will have the same status and support from the state.
      • The term ‘Secular’ was added to the Preamble by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976.
      • Indian secularism is influenced by the core Gandhian principle of ‘Sarva Dharma Sambhava’ meaning ‘equal respect for all religions.

    • Republic : 

      • Meaning India’s head of the state called the President is always elected.
      • In India, The head of the state called the President is elected indirectly.
      • In the USA, The head of the state called the President is elected directly.
      • Britain which is a Monarchy, The head of the state (King or Queen) enjoys a hereditary position.

    • Socialist : 

      • India adopted the democratic socialism(Inspired by Gandhian Socialism) which believes in a ‘mixed economy’ where both public and private sectors co-exist and flourish side by side.
      • It aims to end poverty, ignorance and inequality of opportunity
      • The term ‘Socialist’ was added to the Preamble by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976.

    • Democratic : 

      • Meaning the ultimate power lies in the hands of people who can exercise their power either directly or indirectly.
      • In Direct democracy, the people exercise their power directly though the instruments like Initiative, Referendum, Recall and Plebiscite.
      • In Indirect democracy, the representatives elected by the people exercise the power and thus carry on the government and make the laws for the people.
      • India adopted the Indirect democracy with the principle of Universal adult franchise(Meaning all adults are eligible to vote without discrimination on the basis of religion, race, sex, caste, places of birth etc. ).
  • The Preamble provides to all citizens of India liberty of:
    • Thought
    • Expression 
    • Belief
    • Faith 
    • Worship
  • It states that the objectives constitution of India is to provide following justices to the people:
    • Social Justice – Meaning equal treatment of all citizens without any social distinction based on caste, color, race, religion, sex and so on.
    • Economic Justice – Meaning no discrimination/inequalities on the basis of economic factors such as wealth, income and property.
    • Political Justice – Meaning all citizens have equal political rights.
  • Ideals of justice (social, economic and political) as mentioned in the Preamble are borrowed from the Constitution of Soviet Union (Present day Russia).
  • Ideals of liberty, equality and fraternity are borrowed from the French Constitution.
  • The American Constitution was the first constitution to start with a Preamble.
  • The Preamble specifies November 26, 1949  as the date of adoption of the Indian Constitution.

Can Preamble be Amended ?

  • In the historic Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), The Supreme Court held that the Preamble is a part of the Constitution hence can be amended by parliament under Article 368.
  • The Court confirmed that the opinion given by it in the Berubari Union case of 1960(Which stated that Preamble was not part of the constitution) in this regard was wrong.
  • The Supreme Court held that the Preamble can be amended, without affecting the ‘basic features of constitution’. With this judgment, the Supreme court introduced the ‘Basic structure doctrine’. 
  • You can read more about the ‘Basic structure doctrine’ here.
  • So far, the Preamble has been amended only once by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976, which added three new words:
    • Socialist
    • Secular
    • Integrity

Also Read in CivilsCracker Explains : Indian Polity

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Indian Polity MCQs – 4 (Sources of Indian Constitution)

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Indian Polity MCQs and Mock Tests

Indian Polity MCQs – 4 (Sources of Indian Constitution)

Sources of Indian Constitution MCQs with answers and explanations for preparation of UPSC, BPSC, UPPSC and other State PSC Examinations

Free Mock Tests

Build Your Basics

1. Indian federal structure is inspired by which model of the countries given below? 

(a) USA

(b) Canada

(c) Switzerland

 (d) Russia

Correct Answer :  (b) Canada

  • Federal structure of government in the Indian constitution is taken from the ‘Canadian constitution’ which provides for a federation with a strong center. 
  • Charter of fundamental rights, power of Judicial review and independence of Judiciary, written constitution and preamble are taken from USA. 
  • Fundamental duties and five year planning are taken from Russia.

2. India has borrowed the concept of Fundamental Rights from the constitution of 

(a) UK

(b) USA

(c) Russia

(d) Ireland

Correct Answer : (b) USA

  • The concept of fundamental rights is borrowed from the USA. 
  • Directive Principles of state policy, method of election of the President, nomination of members in the Rajya Sabha by the President are taken from the Irish Constitution.

3. The phrase equality before law used in Article 14 of Indian Constitution has been borrowed from the Constitution of : 

(a) Britain

(b) USA

(c) France

(d) Canada

Correct Answer : (a) Britain

  • The phrase equality before law of the Indian Constitution has been borrowed from Britain. 
  • The term Republic and the idea of liberty, equality and fraternity in the preamble was borrowed from the constitution of France.

4. The idea of concurrent list in the Indian Constitution has been borrowed from :

(a) USA

(b) Switzerland

(c) Australia

(d) U.S.S.R.

Correct Answer : (c) Australia

  • The ideas of concurrent list, provision regarding trade, commerce and intercourse, have been borrowed from Australia.

5. The idea of the Directive Principles of state policy in the Indian Constitution has been taken from the Constitution of 

(a) Ireland

(b) Canada

(c) South Africa

(d) Australia

Correct Answer : (a) Ireland

  • DPSP in the Indian constitution has been taken from Ireland.

6. Which of the following are the correct matching of the countries and the borrowed features of the Indian constitution from them ?

  1. UK – Bicameral Legislature
  2. USSR – Independence of Judiciary and judicial review
  3. Australia – Five year Plan
  4. US – Removal of Supreme court and High court Judges
  5. Ireland – Method of election of President

(a) 1, 3 and 5

(b) 1, 2, 3 and 4

(c) 1, 4 and 5

(d) 2, 3 and 5

Correct Answer : (c) 1, 4 and 5

  • Following features have been adopted from the constitution of UK 
    • Nominal Head – President (like King/Queen however they are elected in India, Not like monarchy in UK).
    • Cabinet System of Ministers
    • Post of Prime Minister
    • Parliamentary Type of Government
    • Bicameral Legislature
    • Lower House(Lok Sabha) being more powerful
    • Council of Ministers responsible to Lower House(Lok Sabha)
    • Post of Speaker in Lok Sabha 
  • Following features have been adopted from the constitution of US:
    • Independence of Judiciary and judicial review
    • Written Constitution
    • Executive head of state known as President and he being the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces
    • Vice-President as the ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha
    • Fundamental Rights
    • Supreme Court
    • Preamble
    • Removal of Supreme court and High court Judges 
  • Following features have been adopted from the constitution of USSR:
    • Five year Plan
    • Fundamental Duties 
  • Following features have been adopted from the constitution of Australia:
    • Concurrent list
    • Language of the preamble
    • Provision regarding trade, commerce and intercourse
  • Following features have been adopted from the constitution of Ireland : 
    • Method of election of President
    • Concept of Directive Principles of States Policy(Ireland borrowed it from SPAIN)
    • Nomination of members in the Rajya Sabha by the President

Also Read in Indian Polity MCQs :

Bindusara | Ancient History of Bihar Part – 7

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Ashokan Pillar

Ancient History of Bihar Part - 7 : Bindusara

Bindusara notes/study material for preparation of BPSC Prelims and Mains and other Bihar state examinations

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Table of Contents

Bindusara

  • He was Second Ruler of the Mauryan Empire and Son of Chandragupta Maurya .
  • His rule started from 297 BC and lasted till 273 BC.
  • He is also called as Amitraghata (Slayer of enemies) or Amitrochates in Greek sources.
  • He is also called Singhsen or Bindupala in various Jain literature. Jaina text Rajvalli-Katha called him Seemseri.
  • Syrian king Antiochus sent Deimachus as his ambassador in the court of Bindusara.
  • He had appointed his son, Ashoka as the governor of Ujjain who later became the next king of the Mauryan Empire.
  • Bindusara further extended the Mauryan Empire and is believed to have conquered the Deccan up to Mysore.
  • The Sangam Tamil literature also mentions the Mauryan invasion of the far south.
  • Bindusara supported a religious sect known as Ajivikas. Ajivika was one of the nastika or heterodox schools of Indian philosophy. It is believed to have been founded in the 5th century BCE by Makkhali Gosala.

Bihar Ancient History MCQs

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Mauryan Empire and Chandragupta Maurya | Ancient History of Bihar Part – 6

by
Ashokan Pillar

Ancient History of Bihar Part - 6 : Mauryan Empire and Chandragupta Maurya

 Mauryan Empire and Chandragupta Maurya notes/study material for preparation of BPSC Prelims and Mains and other Bihar state examinations

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Table of Contents

Rise of Mauryan Empire and Chandragupta Maurya :

The Mauryan empire was a geographically extensive, powerful empire in ancient India. The empire had its capital at Patliputra. 

As we studied in the last chapter, the last of the Nanda rulers, Dhana Nanda, was highly unpopular among the common populace due to his highly oppressive tax regime.

Also, the reign of Dhana Nanda saw Alexander’s invasion of North-Western India. When Alexander retreated, Some regions of North-Western India came under the rule of the generals appointed by Alexander. They were fighting among themselves which created unrest and destabilized the whole North-Western region.

 Chandragupta Maurya rose to this occasion and subjugated the border states and recruited an army.

With the help of Kautilya, Chandragupta usurped the throne by defeating Dhana Nanda in 321 BC and established the Maurya dynasty(321 BCE – 185 BCE).

Kautilya, also known as Chanakya or Vishnugupta, played an important role as a guru, guide and strategist in the success of Chandragupta. He was originally a teacher at Taxila and wrote Arthashastra. Chanakya is also known as “Indian Machiavelli”.

Chandragupta Maurya history:

  • Chandragupta Maurya was Founder of the Mauryan Empire. His reign started from 321 BC and lasted till 297 BC.
  • The Greek sources mention him to be of non-warrior lineage whereas Buddhist sources mention him to be a Kshatriya.
  • According to Mudra Rakshasa, Chandragupta Maurya was born to a Shudra woman. 
  • Greek accounts mention him as Sandrokottos.
  • Seleucus Nicator I was one of the generals appointed by Alexander the Great. In 305 BC, he was defeated by Chandragupta. As a result, Chandragupta acquired Balochistan, eastern Afghanistan and the region to the west of Indus. 
  • Chandragupta also married Seleucus Nicator’s daughter.
  • Seleucus Nicator I sent a Greek ambassador Megasthenes(who wrote the Indica) to Chandragupta’s court. 
  • Chandragupta with his policy of expansion brought under control almost the whole of present India barring a few places like Kalinga and the kingdom’s extreme South. In the west, the empire extended till the parts of modern Iran.
  • After ruling for about 25 years, Chandragupta abdicated the throne in favor of his son, Bindusara.
  • He embraced Jainism and became a Jain monk. 
  • He went to Karnataka with Jain monk Bhadrabahu and is believed to have starved himself to death according to the Jain tradition at Shravanabelagola.

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Nanda Dynasty | Ancient History of Bihar Part – 5

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Ancient History of Bihar Part - 5 : Nanda Dynasty

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Nanda Dynasty :

The Nanda Dynasty was the first non-Kshatriya dynasty to rule Magadh. It started from 345 BCE and lasted till 321 BCE. Mahapadma Nanda was the first ruler of the Nanda Dynasty who usurped the throne after removing the last ruler of the Shishunaga dynasty.

Mahapadma Nanda:

  • His origin is not clear. As per Buddhist texts, Nandas have been described as Annatakula (unknown lineage).
  • His reign lasted for twenty-eight years.
  • He is also called Sarva Kashtriyantaka (destroyer of all the Kshatriyas) 
  • He was also called as Ekrat (sole ruler who destroyed all other rulers).
  • The Magadh empire grew under his reign as he conquered many kingdoms.
  • He maintained 200,000 infantry, 60,000 cavalry and 6000 war elephants. 
  • He annexed Kalinga to Magadha and brought an image of Jina as a trophy of victory.
  • He also annexed the Kosala and Magadha empire..
  • In Pali texts,  He has been referred to as Ugrasena because of his large army. 
  • Multiple historical accounts portray the Nandas as rich and enormously powerful whereas others also portray them negatively. 

Dhana Nanda

  • He was the last of all the Nanda rulers.
  • In Greek texts, he has been referred to as Agrammes or Xandrames.
  • Alexander invaded North-Western India during his reign, but he could not proceed towards the Gangetic plains as his army revolted. Due to prolonged hardship, his army did not want to proceed and did not want to face the huge army of Dhana Nanda.
  • Dhana Nanda inherited a huge empire from his father and possessed a huge standing army.
  • He became unpopular within the common populace due to his oppressive way of extorting taxes. 
  • Also, his Sudra origins and anti-Kshatriya policies led to a large dissatisfaction among the people.
  • Finally, he was overthrown by Chandragupta Maurya with the help of Chanakya, who took advantage of the public resentment and established the Mauryan Empire in Magadha.

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Shishunaga Dynasty | Ancient History of Bihar Part – 4

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Magadha

Ancient History of Bihar Part - 4 : Shishunaga Dynasty

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Shishunaga Dynasty :

According to Sri Lankan chronicles, the people of Magadha revolted during the reign of Nagadasaka, the hereditary king and elected an Amatya (minister) named Shishunaga as the king. The Shishunaga dynasty lasted from 413 BCE to 345 BCE.

Shishunaga :

  • He is believed to be the viceroy of Kasi before becoming king of Magadha.
  • He made Girivraja(modern day Rajgir, Bihar) his capital, however later he shifted the capital to Vaishali.
  • Shishunaga further strengthened the Magadhan empire during his time.
  • His greatest military achievement was that he destroyed the power of Avanti and ended the old rivalry between Magadha and Avanti. 
  • Avanti was annexed to the Magadha empire and it continued to be so till the end of the Mauryan empire.
  •  The Pradyota Dynasty of Avanti ceased to exist after the conquest of Avanti by Shishunaga.

Kalasoka:

  • He was the son of Shishunaga. 
  • He was also known as Kakavarna due to his dark complexion.
  • Kalasoka shifted the capital from Rajagriha to Pataliputra(modern day Patna, Bihar).
  • There is not much information available about his military achievements.
  • The Second Buddhist Council was conducted during the reign of Kalasoka at Vaishali in 383 BCE.
  • He was killed in a palace revolution that brought Mahapadmananda (First ruler of Nanda dynasty) to the throne.

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Modern History MCQs Part -2 : Battle of Plassey MCQs and Battle of Buxar MCQs

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Battle of Plassey

Modern History MCQs Part -2 : Battle of Plassey MCQs and Battle of Buxar MCQs

Battle of Plassey and Battle of Buxar MCQs with answers and explanations for preparation of UPSC, BPSC, UPPSC and other State level Examinations.

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Q 1. Which one of the following was the last Governor of Bengal appointed by the Mughal emperor?

(a) Sartraz Khan

(b) Murshid Quli Khan

(c) Alivardi Khan

(d) Shujauddin Muhammad Khan

Correct Answer:  (b) Murshid Quli Khan

  • Mughal Emperor FarrukhSiyar appointed Murshid Quli Khan to Governor of Bengal in 1717. 
  • Shujauddin, the son-in-law of Murshid Quli Khan, became the Governor of Bengal after the death of Murshid Quli Khan which was ratified by the Mughal Emperor, Muhammad Shah Rangeela.
  • Hence Murshid Quli Khan was the last Governor of Bengal appointed by the Mughal emperor.

Q 2. The Battle of Plassey was fought in the year ?

(a) 1761

(b) 1757

(c) 1760

(d) 1764

Correct Answer:  (b) Murshid Quli Khan

  • Mughal Emperor FarrukhSiyar appointed Murshid Quli Khan to Governor of Bengal in 1717. 
  • Shujauddin, the son-in-law of Murshid Quli Khan, became the Governor of Bengal after the death of Murshid Quli Khan which was ratified by the Mughal Emperor, Muhammad Shah Rangeela.
  • Hence Murshid Quli Khan was the last Governor of Bengal appointed by the Mughal emperor.

Q 3. Who is considered as the founder of the British Empire in India?

(a) Warren Hastings

(b) Lord Amherst

(c) Robert Clive

(d) Lord William Bentinck

Correct Answer:  (C)  Robert Clive

  • Robert Clive is considered as the founder of the British empire in India.
  • He consolidated British supremacy by defeating Nawab of Bengal Sirajuddaula in the battle of Plassey (23rd June, 1757).
  • Mir Jafar was to be placed on the throne by Robert Clive. In exchange, Mir Jafar ceded to the British an area south of Calcutta known as 24 Pargana.
  • The Battle of Plassey is regarded as a historic turning point for the British in India. It established the political and military supremacy of the British in Bengal. 
  • It gave the British access to the rich resources of Bengal. These were used to win the wars in Deccan with other Indian rulers, defeating the French in the third Carnatic war and to extend influence in Northern India.
  • From a commercial entity, the British East India Company proceeded to become a political power in Bengal.

4. Which of the following shifted his capital from Murshidabad to Munger?

(a) Alivardi Khan

(b) Siraj-ud-Daula

(c) Mir Jafer

(d) Mir Qasim

Correct Answer:   (d) Mir Qasim

  • Mir Qasim was the most efficient ruler among all the successors of Nawab Alivardi Khan. 
  • He transferred his capital from Murshidabad to Munger  to secure himself from constant interference from Calcutta and intrigues of Murshidabad. 
  • He organized his army on the European model. He managed a factory of arms and ammunition at Munger for manufacturing tanks and matchlock guns.
  • Besides, Mir Qasim made efforts to reform the state’s financial condition. 
  • Officers who had misappropriated funds were heavily fined, some new taxes were levied.
  1. The most decisive battle that led to the establishment of supremacy of the British in India was :

(a) The battle of Buxar

(b) The battle of Plassey

(c) The battle of Wandiwash

(d) The third battle of Panipat

Correct Answer:  (a) The Battle of Buxar

  • On 22nd October, 1764 British army defeated allied forces of Nawab of Bengal Mir Qasim, Nawab of Oudh Shuja-ud-Daula and Mughal emperor Shah Alam II. 
  • The British army’s command was in the hands of Major Hector Munro in the Battle of Buxar. 
  • The battle of Buxar established British supremacy in Banaras and Allahabad across the Ganges. 
  • The battle of Plassey was won by treachery, but the battle of Buxar showed the supremacy of English armies and military skills. Plassey made the English only the controller of Bengal while Buxar raised the political prestige of the company throughout India.

6. Who was the ruler of Delhi at the time of the battle of Buxar?

(a) Aurangzeb

(b) Shah Alam I

(c) Bahadur Shah Zafar

(d) Shah Alam II

Correct Answer:  (d) Shah Alam II

  • On 22nd October, 1764 British army defeated allied forces of Nawab of Bengal Mir Qasim, Nawab of Oudh Shuja-ud-Daula and Mughal emperor Shah Alam II. 

7. Who was the Nawab of Bengal when the Battle of Buxar was fought?

(a) Sirajuddaula

(b) Mir Jafar

(c) Mir Qasim

(d) Naeem Ud Daula

Correct Answer: (c)  Mir Qasim

  • The Battle of Buxar was fought on 22 October 1764 between the forces under the command of the British East India Company led by Hector Munro and the combined army of Mir Qasim the Nawab of Bengal, Mughal King Shah Alam-II and Nawab of Awadh.

8. Which one of the following rulers granted Diwani to the East India Company ?

(a) Farukhsiyar

(b) Shah Alam- I

(c) Shah Alam- II

(d) Shujauddaula

Correct Answer:  (c)  Shah Alam- II

  • As per the Treaty of Allahabad (August 1765), the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II was taken under the company’s protection and was to reside at Allahabad. 
  • The Emperor issued an order dated 12th August, 1765 granting Company the Diwani of Bengal, Bihar and Orissa in return the company had to make an annual payment of Rs 26 Lakhs to him and provide Rs 53 Lakhs for the expenses of the Nizamat. 
  • Successors of Shah Alam II i.e. Akbar I (1806-37) and Bahadur Shah II (1837-57) became pensioners of East India Company.

9. In which Governor’s tenure, Diwani rights of Bengal, Bihar and Odisha was granted to the East India Company by Emperor Shah Alam?

(a) Robert Clive

(b) Lord Cornwallis

(c) Lord Wellesley

(d) Lord William Bentick

Correct Answer:  (a) Robert Clive

  • As per the Treaty of Allahabad (August 1765), East India Company was granted the Diwani rights of Bengal, Bihar and Orissa.
  • During this time Robert Clive was Governor of Bengal.

10. Which one of the following is the correct chronological order of the battles fought in India in the 18th Century?

(a) Battle of Wandiwash-Battle of Buxar-Battle of Ambur-Battle of Plassey

(b) Battle of Ambur-Battle of Plassey-Battle of Wandiwash-Battle of Buxar

(c) Battle of Wandiwash-Battle of Plassey-Battle ofAmbur-Battle of Buxar

(d) Battle of Ambur-Battle of Buxar-Battle of Wandiwash-Battle of Plassey

Correct Answer: (b) Battle of Ambur-Battle of Plassey-Battle of Wandiwash-Battle of Buxar

  • Battle of Ambur (August, 1749) –  The combined armies of Muzaffar Jung, Chanda Sahib and the French defeated and Killed Anwar-ud-din at the Battle of Ambur  in August, 1749. Muzaffar Jung became the Subedar of Deccan.
  • Battle of Plassey (June, 1757) – Fought between Nawab of Bengal Sirajuddaula and the British army.  With his troops and local Indian allies, Robert Clive recaptured Calcutta in January 1757, and defeated Siraj ud-Daulah at the Battle of Plassey.
  • Battle of Wandiwash (January, 1760)  – It occurred between French and British. The French were defeated by the British. Sir Eyre coote was the leader of the British army while French troops were led by Count de Lally.
  • Battle of Buxar (October, 1764)  – Fought between allied forces of Mir Qasim, Shujauddaula, Shah Alam II and the British. The British, led by Hector Munro, defeated the allied force.

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