Previous Year Questions (2013-2022)
1] “When a nation becomes devoid of arts and learning, it invites poverty.” (Sir Syed Ahmad Khan). In the light of this statement, assess the role of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan as a in as a reformer in modern India. [2021/15m/200w/3b]
2] Syed Ahmed Khan as a moderniser. Comment. [2013/10m/150w/1e]
Model Answers to PYQs (2018-2022)
1] “When a nation becomes devoid of arts and learning, it invites poverty.” (Sir Syed Ahmad Khan). In the light of this statement, assess the role of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan as a in as a reformer in modern India. [2021/15m/200w/3b]
Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was a prominent figure in the Indian subcontinent during the 19th century and is widely recognized as a modernizer. He played a significant role in initiating educational and social reforms and promoting a rational and progressive approach to addressing the challenges faced by the Muslim community in colonial India.
One of the most significant contributions of Syed Ahmed Khan was his emphasis on education. He believed that education was the key to progress and advocated for modern education based on scientific and technological advancements. In 1875, he founded the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in Aligarh (later upgraded to Aligarh Muslim University), which aimed to provide Western education while retaining Islamic values. The institution played a crucial role in producing a new generation of educated Muslims who were able to engage with the challenges of the time.
Syed Ahmed Khan promoted a rational and scientific approach to education and encouraged Muslims to embrace modern knowledge without compromising their religious beliefs. He advocated for the study of science, mathematics, and English, as well as the Arabic and Persian languages, to help Muslims engage with Western knowledge while preserving their cultural heritage.
Syed Ahmed Khan was deeply concerned about the social status and conditions of Muslims in India. He urged Muslims to adapt to changing times and engage with the British administration to improve their socio-economic situation. He emphasized the need for Muslims to acquire skills and knowledge that were in demand during the British rule, such as English language proficiency and administrative expertise.
He believed in fostering interfaith understanding and harmony. He promoted dialogue between Muslims and Hindus and encouraged cooperation between different religious communities. He advocated for the idea of a united India, where all communities could coexist peacefully and work together for the betterment of society.
Syed Ahmed Khan’s modernization efforts laid the foundation for the intellectual and social development of Muslims in India. His emphasis on education, rationality, and interfaith harmony continues to be relevant today and has had a lasting impact on the Muslim community in the region. [343 words]
The post contains answers to the last 5-year papers i.e. (2022-2018). Answers to the previous year questions from 2013-2017 are a part of our book PSIR Optional Model Answers to PYQs (2013-2022)