Rural and Urban Transformations MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Rural and Urban Transformations - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is - Ethnic rebellion, reform movements, political autonomy movements, secessionist movements and agrarian unrest

Key Points

• Surajith Sinha's classification
  • Surajith Sinha, a noted anthropologist, categorized tribal movements into five main types based on their objectives and nature.
  • The correct classification includes: Ethnic rebellion, reform movements, political autonomy movements, secessionist movements, and agrarian unrest.
  • This classification focuses on the socio-political and economic dynamics of tribal movements in India.
• Objective of the classification
  • The classification helps in understanding the diverse causes behind tribal movements, such as ethnic identity, religious reforms, or economic grievances.
  • It is widely used in anthropological and sociological studies for analyzing tribal resistance and struggles.
• Why other options are incorrect
  • Option 1: "Reactionary, Conservative, Revisionary" does not align with Sinha's framework but relates to general political classifications.
  • Option 3: "Religious movements, insurgent movements and reform movements" is a general typology, lacking the specific focus of Sinha's categorization.
  • Option 4: "Reformist, Revolutionary and Reactionary" is another broad classification unrelated to Sinha's work.

Additional Information

• Types of Tribal Movements
  • Ethnic Rebellion: Movements aimed at asserting ethnic identity and resisting external domination. Example: Santhal Rebellion.
  • Reform Movements: Movements focused on socio-religious reforms, such as the Tana Bhagat movement.
  • Political Autonomy Movements: Movements demanding self-rule or autonomy, such as the Jharkhand movement.
  • Secessionist Movements: Movements seeking separation from the Indian state. Example: Naga insurgency.
  • Agrarian Unrest: Movements focused on land rights and economic exploitation. Example: Munda Rebellion.
• Significance of Tribal Movements
  • They highlight issues of economic exploitation, political marginalization, and cultural identity.
  • They have led to significant political and social reforms in tribal-dominated regions.

The correct answer is - Barrington Moore Jr.

Key Points

• Barrington Moore Jr.
  • Moore, a prominent sociologist and political scientist, explored the dynamics of social revolutions and class structures in his seminal work, "Social Origins of Dictatorship and Democracy."
  • In his analysis, he characterized the Indian peasantry as being docile and lacking the capacity for independent revolutionary action due to structural factors like colonial rule and entrenched social hierarchies.
  • He argued that the absence of a strong, independent peasant movement in India influenced the trajectory of its political and economic development.
  • This perspective highlights the role of external constraints and the lack of cohesive class consciousness among Indian peasants.

Additional Information

• Other Thinkers on Indian Peasantry
  • A.R. Desai
    • A Marxist scholar, Desai viewed Indian peasants as having revolutionary potential but constrained by feudal exploitation and colonial policies.
    • He emphasized the role of class struggle and economic conditions in shaping peasant movements in India.
  • Teodor Shanin
    • Shanin focused on the sociology of the peasantry, emphasizing the agency of rural communities in shaping their economic and social structures.
    • He challenged the idea of peasants being universally passive or incapable of independent action.
  • Partha Mukherjee
    • Known for his insights into Indian rural society, Mukherjee analyzed the complexities of caste, class, and community in shaping peasant behavior.
    • His work contrasts with Moore’s views by recognizing the potential for organized peasant resistance under specific conditions.
• Significance of Peasant Movements
  • Peasant movements in India, such as the Tebhaga Movement and Telangana Rebellion, provide counterpoints to Moore's assessment, showcasing periods of active resistance.
  • These movements demonstrate that, while external conditions often suppressed peasant agency, there were instances of collective action challenging feudal and colonial oppression.

The correct answer is - Chicago School

Key Points

• Chicago School
  • The Chicago School is a sociological perspective that emphasizes the study of urban environments and how they shape human behavior.
  • It is closely associated with the development of urban sociology and the study of social structures within cities.
  • The Chicago School focuses on the dynamics of urbanization, social interaction, and community organization.
  • It introduced concepts such as the ecological model, which examines how individuals and groups adapt to their urban environments.

Additional Information

• Notable Contributions of the Chicago School
  • The development of the Concentric Zone Model, a theory of urban growth that describes the spatial organization of cities.
  • Research on social disorganization, which examines how rapid urbanization can lead to a breakdown in social norms and increase crime rates.
  • Studies on immigrant communities and their adaptation to urban life, highlighting issues of assimilation and cultural retention.
• Comparison with Other Schools of Thought
  • Conflict School: Focuses on class struggles and economic disparities rather than urban dynamics.
  • Social Interactionist School: Examines micro-level interactions rather than the broader urban environment.
  • Frankfurt School: Primarily concerned with critical theory and cultural studies, not urban sociology.
• Practical Applications
  • Urban planning and policy-making to address issues such as housing, transportation, and public safety.
  • Community development programs aimed at fostering social cohesion in urban neighborhoods.

The correct answer is - (2) Champaran movement, (4) Kheda movement, (1) Tebhaga movement, and (3) Naxalbari movement

Key Points

• Champaran movement (1917):
  • This was the first major peasant movement in India led by Mahatma Gandhi.
  • It was launched in the Champaran district of Bihar to protest against the exploitation of indigo farmers by European planters.
  • The movement marked the beginning of Gandhi's leadership in the Indian freedom struggle.
• Kheda movement (1918):
  • It was organized in the Kheda district of Gujarat under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi.
  • Farmers protested against the imposition of taxes despite a severe famine and crop failure.
  • The movement was significant in uniting farmers and demonstrating the effectiveness of non-cooperation.
• Tebhaga movement (1946-47):
  • It was a peasant movement in Bengal led by the All India Kisan Sabha.
  • Farmers demanded a reduction in the share of the landlord's produce from half to one-third.
  • The movement highlighted the exploitation of sharecroppers by landlords.
• Naxalbari movement (1967):
  • This movement began in the Naxalbari region of West Bengal and was led by radical communists.
  • It was an armed uprising by peasants against landlords demanding redistribution of land.
  • The movement played a significant role in the rise of Maoist insurgency in India.

Additional Information

• Peasant movements in India:
  • They were a response to the exploitation of farmers under colonial rule.
  • These movements played a critical role in raising awareness about agrarian issues and advocating for land reforms.
  • Key leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel, and later communist leaders were instrumental in mobilizing peasants.
• Role of peasant movements in Indian history:
  • They contributed to the nationalist movement by involving rural masses in the freedom struggle.
  • These movements also laid the foundation for post-independence land reforms and policies aimed at improving the condition of farmers.

The correct answer is - M. Castells

Key Points

• M. Castells
  • M. Castells is a renowned sociologist and urban theorist who authored the book "The Urban Question".
  • The book focuses on the relationship between urbanization and social structures, analyzing urban life through the lens of Marxist sociology.
  • It emphasizes the role of capitalism in shaping urban landscapes and addresses how urban development is linked to broader economic systems.
  • "The Urban Question" is a seminal work in the field of urban studies, offering critical insights into the socio-political dynamics of cities.

Additional Information

• Urban Sociology
  • Urban sociology examines the social, cultural, and economic factors influencing urban life and development.
  • Key contributors to the field include M. Castells, R.E. Park, and others who have analyzed urbanization's impact on society.
  • It often intersects with disciplines like economics, geography, and political science.
• Other Authors and Their Contributions
  • Paul Harrison: Known for environmental and development-focused works such as "The Third Revolution."
  • U. Beck: Famous for his theory of the "Risk Society," exploring modern societal risks and global challenges.
  • R.E. Park: A key figure in the Chicago School of Sociology, focusing on urban ecology and human behavior in cities.
• Marxist Urban Theory
  • Marxist urban theory analyzes the relationship between economic systems, class struggles, and urban development.
  • M. Castells’ work is heavily influenced by Marxist theory, highlighting how urbanization is shaped by the needs of capitalism and labor markets.
  • This perspective challenges traditional urban theories, emphasizing inequalities and power structures in urban settings.

• Bhil tribes are found in central and western India mainly in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
• They belong to the Indo-Aryan race.
• They are the largest tribal group in India.
• Bhils have rich traditional culture, Ghoomar is their folk dance.
• Bhil painting is also famous which shows their rich culture.

The correct answer is - Mega city

Key Points

• Mega city
  • According to the Census of India 2011, a city with a population of more than 10 million is categorized as a Mega city.
  • The term "Mega city" reflects cities with extremely large populations and significant economic, social, and infrastructural influence.
  • Examples of mega cities in India include Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, all of which had populations exceeding 10 million as per the 2011 census.
  • This classification is used for urban planning and resource allocation by governments and international agencies.

Additional Information

• Related Urban Classifications
  • Global city: Refers to cities that have a significant impact on global economic and political systems. Examples include New York, London, and Tokyo. However, this term is not tied to a specific population size.
  • Metropolitan city: Refers to large cities that include urbanized areas and surrounding suburbs. The population threshold is typically lower than that of a mega city.
  • Smart city: Refers to cities that incorporate advanced technology and innovation in infrastructure and governance to improve the quality of urban life. Population size is not a defining criterion.
• Significance of Mega Cities
  • Mega cities are often economic powerhouses, contributing significantly to national GDP.
  • They face challenges like overpopulation, traffic congestion, pollution, and strain on public services, requiring specialized urban management strategies.
  • International organizations such as the United Nations and World Bank track mega cities for global development and urbanization trends.

In Indian context, increase in slum population depicts an extension of rural poverty.Important Points

• A slum is a highly populated urban residential area consisting of densely packed housing units of weak build quality and often associated with poverty.
• The infrastructure in slums is often deteriorated or incomplete, and they are primarily inhabited by impoverished people.

Additional Information

• Rural-to-urban migration is when people move, either temporarily or permanently, from a rural area to an urban city.
• The push factors of rural to urban migration are lack of job facilities, low salary, less income, drought, less medical and educational facilities for rural to urban migration.

The correct answer is - Dipankar Gupta.

Key Points"Mistaken Modernity: India Between Worlds" :

• This book by Dipankar Gupta offers a profound critique and analysis of the notion of modernity within the Indian socio-cultural and political landscape.
• Gupta explores how modernity in India is often characterized by a coexistence of traditional values and modern aspirations, especially within the urban middle class.
• Key themes include the impact of consumerism, the workings of democracy, and the role of secularism, providing insightful perspectives on how these factors shape and are shaped by middle-class identity and actions.

Additional InformationAmartya Sen -

• An economist and philosopher, Sen is best known for his work on welfare economics, development as freedom, and for his contributions to the understanding of poverty, hunger, and the measurement of well-being.
• His important works include "Development as Freedom" and "The Argumentative Indian," where he explores the breadth of Indian history, culture, and identity.

• A historian and writer whose work covers a wide range of subjects including environmental, social, political, and cricket history.
• Guha is best known for his books "India after Gandhi," a comprehensive history of India post-independence, and "The Unquiet Woods," which explores environmental history and movements in India.

• Primarily known as a novelist and a political activist, Roy won the Booker Prize for her novel "The God of Small Things."
• In addition to her literary work, she has been involved in various human rights and environmental causes.
• Her non-fiction works like "Capitalism: A Ghost Story" and "The Ministry of Utmost Happiness" delve into contemporary Indian society, politics, and economy.

D.N Majumdar proposed the concept of De-Sanskritization.Important Points

• De-Sanskritisation is the process by which a high or a low caste person or a tribal accepts the membership of an untouchable caste and thereby lowers his social as well as ritual position.
• The process of De-Sanskritisation also involves imbibing the customs and beliefs and adopting the way of life of an untouchable caste.

Additional Information 

• G.S Ghurye is widely regarded as the founder of Indian Sociology & Sociology in India. He founded the Indian Sociological Society and its newsletter, Sociological Bulletin.
• N.K Bose was a leading Indian anthropologist, who played a formative role in "building an Indian Tradition in Anthropology". He was humanist scholar with a broad range of interests, he was also a leading sociologist, urbanist, Gandhian, and educationist.
• Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was an Indian jurist, economist, social reformer and political leader who headed the committee drafting the Constitution of India from the Constituent Assembly debates, served as Law and Justice minister in the first cabinet of Jawaharlal Nehru, and inspired the Dalit Buddhist movement after renouncing Hinduism.

The correct answer is - Begar.

Key Points

• Begar
  • Begar was the practice where members of lower caste groups had to provide free labor to the landlords.
  • This practice was prevalent in some regions of India, particularly among the lower castes who were often bound to serve the dominant landowning groups.
  • The free labor provided was usually in the form of agricultural work or other forms of manual labor.

Additional Information

• Exploitation of Labor
  • The practice of begar was a form of exploitation where lower caste individuals were forced to work without wages, reinforcing social and economic inequalities.
  • It was a means for landlords to extract labor without providing fair compensation, maintaining their dominance in the rural hierarchy.
• Legal Abolition
  • Although practices like begar have been legally abolished in independent India, remnants of such exploitative practices may still persist in some areas.
  • Efforts have been made to ensure the enforcement of labor laws and to protect the rights of marginalized communities.
• Related Terms
  • Zamindari: A land revenue system where landlords (Zamindars) were responsible for collecting and paying land revenue to the colonial government.
  • Jajmani: A system of patron-client relationships in traditional Indian society, particularly in villages, based on reciprocal services among different caste groups.
  • Ryotwari: A land revenue system where individual farmers (ryots) were the landowners and paid taxes directly to the government.

The correct answer is - S. C. Dube

Key Points

• S. C. Dube
  • S. C. Dube is a renowned sociologist known for his field studies in rural India.
  • His research primarily focused on the social structures and changes in Indian villages.
  • He conducted an in-depth study of the village 'Devara', analyzing its social dynamics and cultural aspects.

Additional Information

• Other Researchers in Rural Sociology
  • M. N. Srinivas
    • Known for his work on caste and social structure in Indian villages.
    • Famous for his study of the village Rampura and concepts like Sanskritization and Dominant Caste.
  • Marriot
    • Conducted fieldwork in the village of Kishan Garhi.
    • Focused on the interplay between local culture and larger social changes.
  • Jyotirmaya Sharma
    • Known for his work in political philosophy and modern Indian thought.
    • His research is more aligned with the study of Indian political and social ideologies.
• Importance of Village Studies
  • Village studies provide crucial insights into the social, economic, and cultural life of rural India.These studies help in understanding the impact of modernization and policy changes at the grassroots level.
  • They contribute to the formulation of effective development strategies and interventions.

The correct answer is - Ethnic rebellion, reform movements, political autonomy movements, secessionist movements and agrarian unrest

Key Points

• Surajith Sinha's classification
  • Surajith Sinha, a noted anthropologist, categorized tribal movements into five main types based on their objectives and nature.
  • The correct classification includes: Ethnic rebellion, reform movements, political autonomy movements, secessionist movements, and agrarian unrest.
  • This classification focuses on the socio-political and economic dynamics of tribal movements in India.
• Objective of the classification
  • The classification helps in understanding the diverse causes behind tribal movements, such as ethnic identity, religious reforms, or economic grievances.
  • It is widely used in anthropological and sociological studies for analyzing tribal resistance and struggles.
• Why other options are incorrect
  • Option 1: "Reactionary, Conservative, Revisionary" does not align with Sinha's framework but relates to general political classifications.
  • Option 3: "Religious movements, insurgent movements and reform movements" is a general typology, lacking the specific focus of Sinha's categorization.
  • Option 4: "Reformist, Revolutionary and Reactionary" is another broad classification unrelated to Sinha's work.

Additional Information

• Types of Tribal Movements
  • Ethnic Rebellion: Movements aimed at asserting ethnic identity and resisting external domination. Example: Santhal Rebellion.
  • Reform Movements: Movements focused on socio-religious reforms, such as the Tana Bhagat movement.
  • Political Autonomy Movements: Movements demanding self-rule or autonomy, such as the Jharkhand movement.
  • Secessionist Movements: Movements seeking separation from the Indian state. Example: Naga insurgency.
  • Agrarian Unrest: Movements focused on land rights and economic exploitation. Example: Munda Rebellion.
• Significance of Tribal Movements
  • They highlight issues of economic exploitation, political marginalization, and cultural identity.
  • They have led to significant political and social reforms in tribal-dominated regions.

The correct answer is - Barrington Moore Jr.

Key Points

• Barrington Moore Jr.
  • Moore, a prominent sociologist and political scientist, explored the dynamics of social revolutions and class structures in his seminal work, "Social Origins of Dictatorship and Democracy."
  • In his analysis, he characterized the Indian peasantry as being docile and lacking the capacity for independent revolutionary action due to structural factors like colonial rule and entrenched social hierarchies.
  • He argued that the absence of a strong, independent peasant movement in India influenced the trajectory of its political and economic development.
  • This perspective highlights the role of external constraints and the lack of cohesive class consciousness among Indian peasants.

Additional Information

• Other Thinkers on Indian Peasantry
  • A.R. Desai
    • A Marxist scholar, Desai viewed Indian peasants as having revolutionary potential but constrained by feudal exploitation and colonial policies.
    • He emphasized the role of class struggle and economic conditions in shaping peasant movements in India.
  • Teodor Shanin
    • Shanin focused on the sociology of the peasantry, emphasizing the agency of rural communities in shaping their economic and social structures.
    • He challenged the idea of peasants being universally passive or incapable of independent action.
  • Partha Mukherjee
    • Known for his insights into Indian rural society, Mukherjee analyzed the complexities of caste, class, and community in shaping peasant behavior.
    • His work contrasts with Moore’s views by recognizing the potential for organized peasant resistance under specific conditions.
• Significance of Peasant Movements
  • Peasant movements in India, such as the Tebhaga Movement and Telangana Rebellion, provide counterpoints to Moore's assessment, showcasing periods of active resistance.
  • These movements demonstrate that, while external conditions often suppressed peasant agency, there were instances of collective action challenging feudal and colonial oppression.

The correct answer is - Chicago School

Key Points

• Chicago School
  • The Chicago School is a sociological perspective that emphasizes the study of urban environments and how they shape human behavior.
  • It is closely associated with the development of urban sociology and the study of social structures within cities.
  • The Chicago School focuses on the dynamics of urbanization, social interaction, and community organization.
  • It introduced concepts such as the ecological model, which examines how individuals and groups adapt to their urban environments.

Additional Information

• Notable Contributions of the Chicago School
  • The development of the Concentric Zone Model, a theory of urban growth that describes the spatial organization of cities.
  • Research on social disorganization, which examines how rapid urbanization can lead to a breakdown in social norms and increase crime rates.
  • Studies on immigrant communities and their adaptation to urban life, highlighting issues of assimilation and cultural retention.
• Comparison with Other Schools of Thought
  • Conflict School: Focuses on class struggles and economic disparities rather than urban dynamics.
  • Social Interactionist School: Examines micro-level interactions rather than the broader urban environment.
  • Frankfurt School: Primarily concerned with critical theory and cultural studies, not urban sociology.
• Practical Applications
  • Urban planning and policy-making to address issues such as housing, transportation, and public safety.
  • Community development programs aimed at fostering social cohesion in urban neighborhoods.