Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times; Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues
1) Examine the role played by the British in rediscovering India’s history. (250 Words)
Why this question?
Important question similar to few asked by UPSC previously in Mains. This question is based on combination of two topics from the syllabus – which is again a trend in previous UPSC papers.
Key demand of the question:
Direct question. Examine what role important Britishers played in rediscovering India’s past – mainly in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Directive Word:
Examine– Just examine relevant information, neatly arrange and present in your answer.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction, write 1-2 line stating that while they plundered, the British also helped discover and to an extent preserve India’s history.
In the body, divide answer either temporally (based on timeline), spatially or personalities-wise(important discoverers) . Under each sub-heading, write 2-3 points with examples.
In the conclusion, how re-discovering history and preserving is a continuous job and lessons (if any) present generations should learn from these Britishers.
