MPPSC MAINS 2016 Paper-I

Points to Remember: Date: 13 April 1919 Location: Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar, India Perpetrator: British Indian Army Victims: Hundreds of unarmed Indian civilians Significance: A pivotal event in the Indian independence movement. Introduction: The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, also known as the Amritsar Massacre, was a horrific event that occurred on April 13, 1919, in Amritsar, Punjab, … Read more

Points to Remember: Founding and Objectives of Harijan Sevak Sangh (HSS) Key Figures and Activities of HSS Impact and Legacy of HSS Criticisms and Limitations of HSS Introduction: The Harijan Sevak Sangh (HSS), meaning “Harijan Service Society,” was a prominent organization established in 1932 in India. Its primary aim was to uplift the then marginalized … Read more

Points to Remember: The causes of the Kol Rebellion. The key figures involved in the rebellion. The course of the rebellion and its major events. The consequences and aftermath of the rebellion. The rebellion’s significance in the history of tribal resistance in India. Introduction: The Kol Rebellion (1831-1832), also known as the Kol Uprising, was … Read more

Points to Remember: Sufi saint and mystic. Founder of the Chishti Order in India. Known for his piety, miracles, and emphasis on love and compassion. Significant impact on the religious and cultural landscape of India. His dargah (shrine) in Ajmer is a major pilgrimage site. Introduction: Sheikh Muinuddin Chishti (c. 1141 – 1236 CE) was … Read more

Points to Remember: Ahilyabai Holkar’s reign as a queen. Her administrative and infrastructural achievements. Her religious tolerance and patronage of arts. Her legacy and lasting impact on Malwa. Introduction: Ahilyabai Holkar (1725-1795) was an extraordinary 18th-century Indian queen who ruled the Maratha kingdom of Malwa. Unlike many rulers of her time, she ascended to power … Read more

Points to Remember: Panchmahavrata are the five great vows taken by Jain monks and nuns. These vows are aimed at complete self-purification and liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara). Lay Jains strive to follow these vows to the best of their ability, although with some flexibility. The vows represent a progressive path … Read more

Points to Remember: The role and responsibilities of the Sitadhyaksha. The historical context of the Sitadhyaksha’s position. The evolution (if any) of the position over time. Comparison with similar positions in other ancient societies (if applicable). Introduction: The term “Sitadhyaksha” (सीताध्यक्ष) refers to a significant administrative position in ancient India, particularly within the context of … Read more

Points to Remember: The Vijayanagara Empire was founded by two brothers. Their origins and exact roles in the founding are debated by historians. The empire’s establishment marked a significant period in South Indian history. Introduction: The Vijayanagara Empire (1336-1646 CE) was one of the most powerful and influential empires in South India. Its rise marked … Read more

Points to Remember: The core principle of the separation of powers is to prevent tyranny by dividing governmental authority among distinct branches. Checks and balances are crucial to the effective functioning of separated powers. The ideal of complete separation is rarely achieved in practice; some overlap and interaction between branches are inevitable and even desirable. … Read more

Points to Remember: Sarnath’s geographical location. Its historical and religious significance. Its present-day status. Introduction: Sarnath is a place of immense historical and religious significance, particularly for Buddhists. It’s located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, and its importance stems from its association with the Buddha’s first sermon after attaining enlightenment. While the precise … Read more