Notes and Study material for Exams
Swaminathan commission for agriculture Development The National Commission on Farmers (NCF) was constituted on November 18, 2004 under the chairmanship of Professor M.S. Swaminathan. The Terms of Reference reflected the priorities listed in the Common Minimum Programme. The NCF submitted four reports in December 2004, August 2005, December 2005 and April 2006 respectively. The fifth … Read more
The Gupta Empire stretched across northern, central and parts of southern India between c. 320 and 550 CE. The period is noted for its achievements in the arts, architecture, sciences, religion, and philosophy. Chandragupta I (320 – 335 CE) started a rapid expansion of the Gupta Empire and soon established himself as the first sovereign ruler of the empire. It marked the end of … Read more
The Gandhara school of art was a Greco-Buddhist art style that developed in the ancient region of Gandhara, which is now part of modern-day Pakistan and Afghanistan. The style flourished between the 1st century BCE and the 7th century CE, and it is characterized by its fusion of Greek, Indian, and Central Asian artistic … Read more
Ritusamhara: Kalidasa’s Poetic Tapestry of Seasons Kalidasa, the celebrated poet of ancient India, is renowned for his mastery of language, his profound understanding of human emotions, and his ability to weave intricate narratives. Among his works, the Ritusamhara (The Gathering of Seasons) stands out as a unique and captivating masterpiece. This lyrical poem, composed in … Read more
Dandiya Raas: A Celebration of Rhythm, Color, and Tradition Dandiya Raas, a vibrant and energetic folk dance form originating from Gujarat, India, is a captivating spectacle that embodies the spirit of joy, festivity, and cultural heritage. This dance, performed with colorful sticks known as “dandiyas,” is an integral part of the Navratri festival, a nine-night … Read more
The Paika Rebellion: A Fight for Freedom and Justice in 18th Century Odisha The Paika Rebellion, a significant uprising against the British East India Company in 18th century Odisha, stands as a testament to the spirit of resistance against colonial rule. This rebellion, led by the Paikas, a warrior caste known for their military prowess, … Read more
The Integration of Princely States: A Complex Legacy of Power, Politics, and Identity The integration of princely states into the Indian Union following independence in 1947 was a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. This complex process, driven by a confluence of political, social, and economic factors, shaped the contours of modern India and left … Read more
Ashram Vyavastha It is the duty of a Hindu to pass through four different ashram (stages) in their life. The first Ashram is called brahmacharya ashram (the educational stage) from which the fourth Varna, Sudra and Women of the first three varna are barred. This is the stage of youth or Learning, which requires a … Read more
Kabir Scholars differ about Kabir’s parentage, his family, the place of his birth, the time and place of his death etc. Instead of concentrating on various beliefs about Kabir’s life, the scholar deems it appropriate to side with the beliefs that are widely accepted. Scholars agree with the fact that Kabir belonged to the time … Read more
Kushinagar: Where the Buddha Attained Nirvana Kushinagar, a small town nestled in the heart of Uttar Pradesh, India, holds a profound significance in the history of Buddhism. It is here, on the banks of the Hiranyavati River, that the Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, attained Parinirvana, the final liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This … Read more