Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath Temple is regarded as the most sacred
temple of Lord Shiva in the world. It is a very old
temple and a symbol of faith, religion, culture and
tradition. Thousands of pilgrims from all over the
world visit this temple to pay homage to Lord Shiva.
This temple is also known as “The Temple of Living
Beings”. It was enlisted in the UNESCO, as the World
Heritage Site in 1979 AD.
Lumbini
Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. It is located
in Kapilvastu, the south-western part of Nepal. It is the
centre of holy faith for millions of Buddhists all over
the world. Lumbini is also blessed with rich natural
beauty. It was enlisted in the UNESCO, as the World
Heritage Site in 1997 AD.
Bouddhanath Stupa
Bouddhanath Stupa is the biggest and one of the
oldest stupas in the country. The stupa is a well-
known Buddhist pilgrimage site in the world. After
1959, many Tibetans arrived and settled in the
Bouddhanath area. It was enlisted in the UNESCO,
as the World Heritage Site in 1979 AD.
Natural Sites
Besides these palaces and temples, two of the natural sites are also recognized by
UNESCO as world heritage sites. They are Chitwan National Park and Sagarmatha
National Park.
Chitwan National Park
Roars of tigers and the chirping of jungle birds are
the defining features of Chitwan National Park.
It is situated in Chitwan district of Nepal. It is the
residence of one horn rhino. It is also a site where
one can observe the Tharu Culture of Nepal. It was
enlisted in the UNESCO, as the World Heritage Site
in 1984 AD.
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 51
Sagarmatha National Park
Sagarmatha National Park is the highest national
park in the world. It is located at an altitude of more
than 3,000 meters. The park comprises of the upper
catchment areas of Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi
Rivers. The landscape is mostly rugged terrain and
gorges of the high Himalayas.
The park is located around the base of the tallest peak
in the world, Sagarmatha (Mt.Everest). Other well
known peaks such as Lhotse, Thamserku, Pumori,
Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, Kwangde, Kangtaiga and Gyachyung Kang are also located
nearby. More than 118 species of birds and 26 species of butterflies reside in the park.
It was enlisted in the UNESCO, as the World Heritage Site in 1979 AD.
Besides these sites, other sites have also been proposed in the World Heritage
Committee. They include caves of Muktinath Valley of Mustang. The medieval palace
complex of Gorkha and Khokana, the vernacular village and its mustard-oil seed
industrial heritage among others. If we can preserve these heritage sites, we can be
recognized as the country of heritage in the world.
Free the Words
recognized : known
monument : a structure erected to commemorate persons or events
achievement : gain; success
illustrate : show
In-class Activities
Visit a place, playground, monument, temple, river, pond, statue, or any site of
historical and cultural importance nearby your school. Make notes of what you
observe :
who built it
in what condition the site is
what cultural importance it has, etc.
Then, like the Bagmati Cleaning Campaign run by NTC, decide to launch your own
campaign to conserve and clean the site. Write a message to invite fellow students
and teachers of your school. Design a brochure, pamphlet, or a poster to publicize the
campaign. Choose a holiday to actually clean the site and then write a report of how
you run the campaign.
52 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
Exercise
1. Write very short answers to the following questions.
a. What are national heritages?
b. How many of UNESCO heritage sites are from Nepal? Where are they
located?
c. Which are the two natural sites among 10 sites?
2. Write short answers to the following questions.
a. ‘National heritage is the wealth of a country.’ Explain.
b. Write short notes on any two cultural sites included in the UNESCO list.
c. Our national heritage is being destroyed every day. Write at least six
suggestions to protect and preserve our National heritages.
d. Make a list of all the natural and cultural heritages of your locality.
e. Are you satisfied with the way the natural and cultural sites being preserved
in your locality? What is their current status? Write in points.
3. Identify the following heritages of Nepal and write few lines on them.
Community Project Work
Select an important historical or cultural site that you know. Write a letter to the World
Heritage Committee requesting them to include the site in the World Heritage list. In
your letter give enough reasons why the site deserves to be included in the list.
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 53
2.5
International Personalities
Pre-reading Activities
Who is your favourite national or international personality? Choose someone you
regard as a great personality. Write why you think the person to be a great personality;
mention special contribution that person made to humanity. Then, share your ideas
to the class.
Reading
Some people are born with a passion for learning and contributing to the society and
the world with their great deeds. Such people struggle against all odds and finally
become successful in leaving behind some discovery, gains or inventions of which the
world is proud of. We call them great personalities. In this lesson, we will learn about
two international personalities.
Florence Nightingale
If we go to the hospitals, we can see many nurses serving
to the patients. Without caring days and nights they are
found giving medicines, taking special care and behaving
in friendly ways with the patients. In fact they totally
dedicate their life for the sake of humanitarian task. In the
past, only male nurses were there in the hospitals to serve
the patients. Nursing was considered as a low profile job.
In such situation, there was a dawn of one lady, Florence
Nightingale who proved the world that women also can
serve as a nurse even better than male. She even changed
the perception of nursing.
Florence Nightingale was born on May 12, 1820, in
Florence, Italy. Her family belonged to elite social circles.
From a very young age, Nightingale was active in philanthropy, serving to the ill and
poor people in the village. By the time she was 17 years old, her interest in nursing
reached a peak. She believed it to be her divine purpose. When nightingale told her
parents about her ambition to become a nurse, they were disappointed. During that
time nursing was taken as a menial work and was against her social status. In fact, her
54 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
parents wanted her to marry with a rich gentleman and settle a luxurious life.
Despite her parents objections, in 1844 Nightingale enrolled as a nursing student
at the Lutheran hospital in Kaiserwerth, Germany. In 1853, the Crimean war broke
out and by 1854, more than 18,000 soldiers were admitted into military hospital. To
care the soldiers, she reached the military hospital in England with 38 nurses. As the
hospital lacked nurses and proper treatment, the poor ill and injured soldiers were
dying day by day. The hospital even lacked proper sanitation. She spent days and
nights in the wards, giving personal care to the wounded soldiers. In the evenings she
moved through the dark hallways carrying a lamp for which the wounded soldiers
gave her nickname as the “lady with the lamp”. She even helped the soldiers writing
letters for their family members. She also improved the sanitary conditions of the
hospital and created a number of patient services that contributed to improving the
quality of their hospital stay.
After she returned from Crimean war, she got lots of appreciation and international
awards. She funded to the establishment of St. Thomas Hospital and the Nightingale
Training School for nurses. She even assisted in establishing Scutary hospital. She
spent whole her life caring the patients. She died on August 13, 1910. She is revered
as the pioneer of modern nursing.
Mahatma Gandhi
Today the whole world is struggling to get peace. Countries
spend million of dollars to get free from violence, conflict
and terrorism. Yet, it hasn’t become an easy task. Today many
political parties, organizations, groups, etc. use violence
path like raising weapons, blocking the road, shutting down
the market and vandalizing the public property to get their
demands fulfilled. But, there was one man who practically
proved the world that any level of demands can be fulfilled
through peaceful way. He was Mahatma Gandhi.
Mahatma Gandhi (Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi) was
born in the town of Porbandar, Gujarat, India on October 2,
1869. Under his leadership only there was peaceful and non - violence movement in
India. Through this movement he was able to make his country free from the British
rule in 1947 AD.
Non-violence movements like Non - cooperation Movement ( 1920 - 1922), Civil
Disobedience Movement (1930) and Quit India Movement (1942) were launched
under his leadership. During his Non - cooperation Movement against-British, many
political agitators post fire on police station and killed policeman. This violence
activity compelled him to suspend the movement. His contemporary leaders and
supporters insisted and suggested him to choose hard line and struggle violently
but he was rigid in favor of non - violence. At last, victory was in his favor. India got
independent in 1947 A.D.
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 55
Mahatma Gandhi is the symbol of peace and belief of non - violence. Patience, tireless
effort and respect to mankind are the rigid positive virtues of Mahatma Gandhi. His
fight for freedom and peace gave voice to many landmark movements not only in
India but in South Africa as well.
He was a man of simple living and high thinking. He used to eat simple food and wear
simple clothes as most of the normal Indian used to do. He used to sleep on thin bed
sheet spreading on the floor. He launched the Charkha Movement encouraging people
to use the clothes made in their own country. He emphasized to use the homemade
products for the development of the nation. He even discouraged to use the topic
of violence in a book. Gandhi’s life and teachings have inspired the whole world to
choose the path of peace and non - violence. He died on January 30, 1948.
Free the Words
humanitarian : a person who works for people's betterment
philanthropy : an act made for humanitarian purpose
terrorism : the use of violent acts to achieve a goal
landmark : milestone; turning point
In-class Activities
Think of a person who has contributed to humanity but who is rarely considered a
great personality. The person maybe from national or international community. Then,
write a letter to the editor of a daily newspaper arguing why the person should be
recognized and honored by the society.
Exercise
1. Write very short answers to the following questions.
a. Who are international personalities?
b. What lessons can you learn from the life of Florence Nightingale and
Mahatma Gandhi?
c. Why was Florence Nightingale called ‘the lady with the lamp'?
d. Why was Mahatma Gandhi called the symbol of peace and non-violence?
2. Write short answers to the following questions.
a. Compare and contrast the life of Florence Nightingale and Mahatma
Gandhi.
b. Here are some notes on the life of another great personality. Develop it into
56 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
a paragraph.
Alexander Graham Bell…Born on March 3, 1847 in Edinburgh,
Scotland, UK Education: University of Edinburgh, Inventor, Scientist
Engineer, Known for Inventing the Telephone, Died on August 2, 1922
(aged 75), Died of diabetes
c. If you were to work in the field of social work and contribute to your
community, what kind of work would you like to do? And why?
d. In Nepal's context, there are different ways of launching peaceful protests.
Discuss in the class and present the conclusion.
e. Write a letter to your friend mentioning the contributions made by Mahatma
Gandhi and Florence Nightingale.
f. Visit nearby hospital or health post. Observe how nurses work there. Talk
to the female health worker over there. Now, prepare a report based on
your observation and talk.
3. Collect the sayings of great personalities as given below and paste them in
different places of your schools.
• An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind.
-Mahatma Gandhi
• We can never obtain peace in the outer world until we make peace with
ourselves. - Buddha
• Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.
- Nelson Mandela
• When I do good, I feel good. When I do bad, I feel bad. That’s my religion.
- Abraham Lincoln
• Try not to become a man of success but rather try to become a man of value.
-Albert Einstein
4. Organize an oratory programme on ‘Simple Living High Thinking’. Invite a
social worker also on the programme. Choose the organizer and announcer
among yourselves.
Community Project Work
Consult your parents or elders of your community to find out a person
who has significantly influenced your community through social work
and charity. Then, write a brief biography of the person and present it
to the class. You may also use photographs related to the person and his
work to make it more authentic.
In Nepal's context, there are different ways of launching peaceful protests.
Discuss in the class and present the conclusion.
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 57
Unit Review
In this unit, we have learnt that :
There are many social traditions in Nepal and such traditions are practised
across cultures and communities.
Many important social traditions are disappearing; as a result, we need
to preserve them to promote identity of people, culture, and community.
There are many religions practised in Nepal. Despite differences, we
respect and accept traditions and beliefs belonging to various religions.
Nepal is a country of diversity. This diversity is reflected in our geography,
culture, language, and clothes we wear.
Diversity has become the strength of our nation and our character as
Nepalese; we depend on each other for work and living, help each others
in need; this promotes social harmony and tolerance.
We have natural as well as man-made heritage, including arts, architecture,
monuments, rivers, and lakes; these national heritages are symbols of our
identity as Nepali people; we should work to preserve and promote our
national heritage.
We should respect and learn from great national and international
personalities who have significantly contributed to humanities.
Test Your Knowledge
1. Choose the correct answer.
a. Which of the following is not a feature of Guthi?
i. It is specific to Newar community.
ii. It is created by donating land and creating a trust.
iii. Guthi works to preserve cultural heritage.
iv. Guthi divides people into various conflicting groups.
b. Which of the following is the feature of Bheja?
i. The leader of the Bheja is called Thakali.
ii. Bheja is responsible for selecting the priest.
iii. Bheja works as the priest of the Magar community.
iv. Bheja works towards preserving customs and traditions.
c. Which of the following is not the feature of Rodhi?
i. Rodhi refers to restaurants that offer entertainment through dancing
and singing.
ii. Rodhi is specific to Gurung community.
iii. Rodhi Ghar is selected on a rotational basis.
iv. In a Rodhi, young people gather and they get to know each other.
58 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
d. Which one is the best definition of “social harmony”?
i. People looking down upon the faith they don’t belong to.
ii. People working together and caring for each other despite their
religious, cultural, and linguistic differences.
iii. People voting leaders who might belong to a caste other than their
own.
iv. People dividing the country into their own little communities.
e. Which one refers to cultural diversity?
i. People live in different places such as Hills, Mountains, and Terai.
ii. People speak different languages.
iii. People practise different religions of their choice.
iv. People practise different customs and rituals.
f. Which of these is not listed in the World Heritage Site?
i. Sagarmath National Park
ii. Hanuman Dhoka Darbaar Square
iii. Manakamana Temple
iv. Swoyambhu
2. Answer the following questions.
a. What do you mean by social tradition? Write a brief note on any social
tradition that you are familiar with.
b. What is religion? How does religion help people?
c. Why should we bother to protect old monuments?
d. What are the main contributions of Mahatma Gandhi to humanity?
e. What can be done to promote good feeling among diverse people of Nepal?
3. If you were the chairperson/mayor of your rural municipality/municipality,
what would you do to preserve the cultural heritage of your community?
4. In the table below, list cultural heritages that you know (not mentioned in the
lesson)
Name of the site Location What is it Present
about? condition
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 59
Unit
3
Social Problems
and Their Solutions
Learning Objectives
Upon the completion of this unit, students will be able to :
identify various social problems
suggest pertinent solutions to social problems
recognize the contribution of national and international organizations
in solving social problems
find out the reasons for social conflicts
understand the ways to manage conflicts
60 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
3.1
Social Problems
Pre-reading Activities
Get into a group of 4-5 students. Choose a name of your group. As a group design a
poster that appeals against one of the social problems you have studied in this lesson.
Organize an inter-group “Poster Competition.” Invite your teachers to evaluate and
select the best poster. You may even think of awarding the group that produces the
best poster.
Reading
A society can progress only when everyone thinks of the society’s well being and
acts responsibly and morally. Sadly, not every person is good. There are those who
commit crimes, who loot others’ property, who commit theft and those who indulge
in corruption. Such people pose a threat to development of the society. And the
problems they cause are called social problems. In other words, social problems refer
to immoral and illegal practices such as theft, robbery, crime, human trafficking,
smuggling, vandalism, corruption, and dowry exchange.
Social problems are caused by two factors: (1) anti-social behaviours and activities
and (2) superstitions, bad practices and customs.
Some people, overcome by a desire to make
fast money, take to theft, robbery and even
human trafficking. Girl trafficking is the worst
form of social problem in Nepal. Traffickers go
to villages and bring innocent girls to towns
and cities promising them better jobs and
comfortable lives. These clever men easily
convince the girls’ parents and sometimes even
pretend to marry them. But when in town, the
victims are either sold or forced into sexual
slavery. These days, some women are trafficked
into Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, Iraq and UAE. These women are often abused.
This is an inhuman act. So anti-trafficking program should be launched in every
village and people should be made aware about this practice. Employment-oriented
education, training and awareness programs can help end such practice.
Among youths, drug addiction and alcoholism are becoming growing problems.
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 61
Both these addictions ruin health and bring infamy to people.
Extravagance and show-off during cultural and religious occasions don't do any
good to society. During festivals, marriage ceremony and bratabandha, people tend
to spend more than they can afford. They do so just to show-off. This practice should
be completely avoided. We should learn to spend according to our income; we should
not blindly copy the practice of very rich people.
Some problems have their roots in bad social customs and superstitions. Discrimination
against women is one such problem. Women are understood to be weaker and less
able than men. This is not true.
They can work as well as their male counterparts if they are given opportunities,
training and education. Greek philosopher Socrates was right to say “development
of a country depends on the status of its women.” It is important to give women an
equal opportunity for education and work.
Exchanging dowry during the wedding has caused many problems in our society.
Dowry system is much more common in Terai districts. The Buhari (daughter-in-
law) in the family is mentally tortured and sometimes even killed for failing to bring
dowry.
Deuki custom is an equally bad practice. It is a
practice of offering unmarried girls to the service of
gods and goddesses. It is believed that this brings
success and prosperity in people’s lives. The girls
thus offered are called Deukis. Deukis cannot marry
throughout their lives which may result in other
problems.
What factors contribute to such social problems?
Well, there are several factors such as lack of education and awareness, lack of skills
and training, poverty, population growth, lack of employment opportunities. Social
problems give rise to disorder and anarchy. So, we have to control and eradicate such
social problems before they spread all over the country.
Brain drain which is also referred to as human capital
flight is another serious problem of our nation. It
is a situation in which the large scale migration of
educated skilled and talented people take to highly
rich and developed nations of the world. Those
qualified people move to other nations to grab the
better opportunities. Today, many doctors, engineers,
teachers, technicians, nurses,etc. advance to the
developed nations. Even the youths have migrated
from Nepal for better earning. This has resulted into
lack of human resources in Nepal.
As a result, several questions have been raised. Like, who will work for this nation? If
62 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
the driving forces move to other countries accepting their slavery,who will bring the
political stability in this nation? Who will open industries when the people having
enough labour, capital or skill plunge to other nations ? Who will think for the future
of this nation? To get the answers of these questions, we have to go through the history
of developed nations. They have progressed and made their nations prosperous
through long struggle and labour. That is why, we need to search our future within
our own nation. The government should open lots of opportunities within the nation
through quality education. It should make a long term plan and should mobilize its
people in various sectors like agriculture, hydroelectricity, tourism, etc. In return, we
people also should be honest and dutiful and assist the government in its various
programmes.
Free the Words
corruption : dishonest and illegal behavior
obstacle : something that creates difficulty
alcoholism : practice of drinking too much alcohol
extravagance : spending more than necessary
anarchy : lawlessness
plunge : move
In-class Activities
1. Keep track of the news related to “Violence against women” for about a week.
The incidents may include dowry, domestic violence, rape, abduction, etc. You
might need to read newspapers, listen to the radio, and watch television to
gather information. Then, record the incidents of dowry-related violence in the
following table.
Type of violence Date of the Nature of Reasons
incident violence
Based on your record, discuss the main reasons for violence against women and
also suggest how we can solve the problems you have noted in the table.
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 63
Exercise
1. Fill in the blanks with suitable words from the lesson.
a. A society cannot progress without good people and good ……………….
b. Girl trafficking is the worst form of …………………… in Nepal.
c. Drug addiction and alcoholism are problems among …………………….
d. …………………… during cultural and social ceremonies should be
avoided.
e. Deuki system is a practice of offering girls to …………………….
2. Write very short answers to the following questions.
a. What kind of people pose threat to social harmony?
b. What is a social problem? Give examples.
c. What two major factors lead to social problems?
d. Why is extravagance bad for us?
e. What is dowry system?
f. Why is dowry system a social problems?
3. Write short answers to the following questions.
a. Write about two social problems brought about by superstitions and bad
customs. How can they be solved?
b. Write short notes on:
i. Girl trafficking
ii. Dowry system
iii. Domestic violence
c. “Development of a country depends on the status of its women.” Explain.
d. What is brain drain? What is its effect in the development of the nation?
Community Project Work
Select a case of social problem reported in the media. Study the case to find out :
What it is about
When it happened and where
Who is responsible
Who is/are the victim of this social problem
What are the main causes of such problems
What can be done to solve this type of problem in our society.
Present the report you have prepared to the class.
64 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
3.2
Corruption
Pre-reading Activities
Read the following news and do the activities that follow :
Nepal climbs 11 spots up in global corruption index
Kathmandu, January 23
Nepal has improved its ranking in corruption perception index by climbing to the 113th
spot from the previous year’s 124th.
Corruption Perception Index-2019 unveiled by Transparency International has ranked
Nepal 113 out of 180 countries with a score of 34.
In South Asia, Bhutan was ranked 25 with a score of 68, India 80 with a score of 41,
Sri Lanka 93 with 38, Nepal 113 with 34, Pakistan 120 with 32, Maldives 130 with 29 and
Afghanistan 173 with a score of 16. Since its inception, the CPI flagship research product
has become the leading global indicator of public sector corruption.
The index released by TI today offers an annual snapshot of the relative degree of corruption
by ranking countries and territories from all over the globe.
In 2012, TI revised the methodology used to construct the index to allow for comparison of
scores from one year to the next. The CPI-2019 draws on 13 surveys and expert assessments
to measure public sector corruption in 180 countries and territories, giving each a score
from zero (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean).
“To end corruption and restore trust in politics, it is imperative to prevent opportunities
for political corruption and to foster the integrity of political systems,” TI said. It has
recommended that the countries manage conflicts of interest, control political financing,
strengthen electoral integrity, regulate lobbying activities, empower citizens, tackle
preferential treatment and reinforce checks and balances, among other measures to combat
corruption.
Not only more than two thirds of countries, along with many of the world’s most advanced
economies, are stagnating, but some are seriously backsliding in the index. There are
worrying signs of stagnating and backsliding among G7 countries.
The United States, for example, has received its lowest score in eight years. Canada has lost
its top 10 rank, while France and the UK have lower score than last year.
The top countries are New Zealand and Denmark, with scores of 87 each, followed by
Finland (86), Singapore (85), Sweden (85) and Switzerland (85). The bottom countries are
Somalia, South Sudan and Syria with scores of 9, 12 and 13, respectively.
These countries are closely followed by Yemen (15), Venezuela (16), Sudan (16), Equatorial
Guinea (16) and Afghanistan (16).
In the last eight years, only 22 countries have shown significant improvement on the CPI,
while almost as many have declined. More than 130 countries have made little to no progress
in controlling corruption. “In order to end the pervasive corruption shown by our index,
governments worldwide need to address the corrupting role of special interest money in political
party financing and the undue influence it exerts on political systems,” the report reads.
Source: The Himalayan Times
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 65
• According to the news, which agency publishes the annual report of CPI?
• What is CPI?
• Which are the least and most corrupted countries according to CPI report 2018?
• What can be done to improve Nepal's CPI standing?
Reading
Today, the eighth grade students of Namuna High School are discussing social problems facing
Nepal. They have a special guest— Binod Maratha, the chairperson of the Nepal chapter of
Transparency International— in the class. Students are excited to interact with him and learn
about Transparency International and the kind of works the organization does.
Teacher: We are glad to have Mr. Maratha in class today. He is the chairperson of the
Nepal Chapter of Transparency International. Please welcome him.
Students: Loud applause!
Mr. Maratha: I am delighted to be with you all. I feel very special to share ideas with
you all. I came to know that you are in the midst of learning about a host of social
problems our country faces. I guess you may have many questions to ask.
Student 1: We did learn about some problems such as drug abuse, girls-trafficking,
and unemployment. We would like to know about corruption. We would like to know
what it is and how it is a social problem.
Martha: That’s a valid concern indeed. In fact, our organization, Transparency
International, works towards establishing a world without corruption and ensuring
good governance. In general, misuse of power and position for personal gain or any
illegal act done for personal benefit can be taken as corruption. There are basically
four tendencies of corruption:
Giving unfair advantages Tendencies of Giving and taking money or
to one’s own family/ corruption other valuables to persuade
relatives when one is someone to do something
in a position of power
(nepotism) dishonest (bribery)
Malpractice and Misuse of public property for
dishonest policies personal benefits
66 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
Student 2: We often hear about cases of corruption in our country. Could you shed
light on the situation of corruption in Nepal?
Maratha: Well, Transparency International ranks countries on the basis of existence
of corruption. The higher the rank, the more corrupt a country. As per the 2018 index,
Nepal ranks124th among 180 countries. So, we can say that the situation is severe as
corruption seems pervasive in Nepal.
Student 3: Corruption seems a very bad conduct and most developing countries seem
to suffer from this problem. I wonder what could be the reasons behind it.
Maratha: There are many reasons behind corruption. Mostly people indulge in
corruption due to following reasons:
Strong desire for wealth and lavish lifestyle
Desire to become rich quickly without hard work
Lack of government control and monitoring
Our tendency to value wealth without considering its source
Lack of public awareness
Depletion of moral and ethical character of the nation
The tendency of according social prestige to those who have money than
to those who work hard
Political intervention in administration and other walks of life
Weak and less influential civic society
Student 4: Corruption appears to be very detrimental to development. I think we
should control it. What can be the ways of controlling corruption?
Maratha: Everything depends on personal ethic and morality of the people who hold
public post. However, we can control corruption by:
Raising public awareness about it
Providing moral education
Publicizing cases of corruption and even publishing the names of those
who are engaged in corruption
Socially isolating the corrupt people
Bringing transparency in governmental and public work and expenditure
Strengthening agencies such as CIAA (Commission for the Investigation
of Abuse of Authority) and making them resourceful
Avoiding the tendency to reckless spending
Reporting cases of corruption to the concerned authorities such as CIAA
Providing adequate salary to civil servants and employees of all sectors so
that they can live a decent life and support their family
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 67
In-class Activities
Visit your school library or any other library. Go through a couple of daily newspapers.
Collect any news or information about corruption. Photocopy or clip them. Post them
on the display box. Take one example of corruption you have collected and discuss
the reasons for such a case of corruption. Also suggest measures to check such cases
of corruption.
Free the Words
intervention : involvement in a situation
publicize : to make something public through media
transparency : making information accessible to all
expenditure : spending
nepotism : favoring one’s relatives in awarding jobs or any profitable position
Exercise
1. Write very short answers to the following questions.
a. What is corruption? Write down its main tendencies.
b. How is corruption a social problem?
c. How does corruption hamper development?
d. Write any two reasons for corruption.
e. What is the current CPI score of Nepal?
f. Name the agency responsible to check the corruption in Nepal.
2. Write short answers to the following questions.
a. What are some of the reasons for corruption?
b. What can be done to control corruption? List the points.
c. If you were the Chairperson of an anti-corruption agency such as CIAA,
what would you do to control corruption?
d. Write a letter to a member of parliament urging the legislature to formulate
stronger law against corruption. In the letter, state the benefits of having a
strong law against corruption.
Community project work
Make posters and slogans against corruption and demonstrate them in the class.
68 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
3.3
Drug Abuse
Pre-reading Activities
Take a few minutes and brainstorm on “drug abuse.” Then make a list of
possible reasons for drug abuse and suggest ways of preventing youth from
taking drugs. Share your points in the class.
Reading
Drug Addiction
A substance that affects mind and arouses feelings of excitement in mind is called
drug. When people who take drugs cannot quit the habit of drug use, it is called
addiction. Alcohol, tobacco chewing, smoking are different forms of addiction. Drugs
like brown sugar, cocaine, hashish, and marijuana are more dangerous and highly
addictive. Drugs affect the mind of the users and make them dependent on drugs.
Addicts suffer from various physical sicknesses as well. The addicted persons are
ready to do anything to obtain drugs. They may even be involved in stealing and may
engage in a host of antisocial behaviour.
Effects of Drug
Loss of money Family break up/
and property Social problem
Effects of drug
addiction
Diseases/ Loss of personal
Sickness/Mental prestige
problems
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 69
As you can see, drug addiction can lead to a host of problems. Since drugs affect
mind, druggists lose mental balance and experience derangement and short temper.
Drug abuse also causes dangerous diseases such as heart attack, stroke, and cancer.
As druggists also inject drugs, they face higher risk of contracting communicable
diseases such as HIV.
Moreover, addicts are always looked down upon and they suffer from social isolation.
Drugs tend to be expensive. As a result, addiction leads to loss of money and social
prestige. Addicts not only suffer themselves; they also make their family suffer.
How to prevent drug addiction?
Role of the family: Family has the most important role to prevent drug abuse. Parents
can prevent their children from getting into drug problem by :
Creating a loving and caring family environment
Communicating with children about their problems
Monitoring children’s behavior; being aware of who they meet and go out
with
Presenting themselves as models for good behavior to their children.
Role of the school: Children and youth spend most of their times in schools. So,
schools can play a vital role in preventing youth from taking drugs by :
Educating students about the bad effects of drug use
Monitoring their students’ behavior
Counseling about the problem of drug abuse
Informing and communicating to their parents
Organizing programs to raise awareness about the problem
Role of the society: Since drug abuse is a social problem, society can play an effective
role to prevent drug abuse by :
Providing entertainment and sporting facilities
Organizing awareness programs
Educating people about the harmful effects of drug use
Involving youth in creative social works
Role of government and non-governmental organizations: Government and non-
governmental organizations have an important role to prevent drug abuse by :
Implementing programs to raise awareness
Creating employment opportunities for youth
Establishing drug prevention centers
Mobilizing recourses to solve the problem
Devising effective policies to discourage people from taking drugs
Enforcing law against drug traffickers
70 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
Free the Words
addiction : being unable to stop taking harmful drugs
prevention : act of stopping something bad from happening
enforce : to make sure that people obey the law
derangement : not to be in right kind of mental state
short temper : sudden anger
In-class activities
Get into small groups of 4-5 students. As a group design a poster or a pamphlet to
raise awareness about the bad effect of drug abuse or about the ways of preventing it.
Display your poster/pamphlet in the class or around school premises.
Exercise
1. Write very short answers to the following questions.
a. What is drug addiction? Give some examples of drug addiction.
b. Why is drug abuse a social problem?
c. Which disease is likely to occur due to drugs?
d. Make a slogan against drug abuse.
2. Write short answers to the following questions.
a. Why and how do people get involved in drug addiction? Make a list of the
causes of addiction.
b. What are the effects of drug addiction on individual, family, and the
society?
c. What kind of a role can your school play to prevent youth from drug abuse?
d. What are some of the ways of preventing drug abuse among youth?
e. Trafficking of drug is an international problem. Why is it difficult to stop
international drug trafficking?
f. Why and how do people get involved in drug addiction? Make a list of the
causes of addiction.
Community Project Work
NARCO-NON and INF (International Nepal Fellowship) are working in the
field of drug addiction and rehabilitation. Study more about these institutions
and prepare a report on the “specific works they do” to solve the problem of
drug addiction.
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 71
3.4
Conflict and Its Management
Pre-reading Activities
When was the last time you had a serious quarrel
with someone? What was the reason for the quarrel?
What happened during the quarrel? How did you
solve the problem with the person you quarreled
with? Keeping these questions in mind, freely write
a paragraph about your experience of quarreling
with someone.
Reading
Naturally, conflicts arise between individuals, a group of individuals or even between
nations. As you must have realized a prolonged conflict leads to great loss and disrupts
peace and development. However, at some point in time, conflicts are inevitable.
Conflicts can be bad as well as good. All depends on the outcome of conflict.
What is a conflict?
Generally, differences between individuals or groups is called conflict. A conflict
arises due to difference in thinking, perception, or disagreement upon an issue. When
different people understand a situation differently, it gives rise to a conflict. You must
have realized that even in your classroom, you may have differences of opinions and
thoughts. Having different views and opinions on an issue is a good thing. It leads
towards better option or solution to a problem. However, when people begin to assert
their own views being right and are not open to discussion, it leads to serious conflict.
Reasons of conflict
There are many reasons for conflict. Some of them are :
Difference in thinking
Practice of discrimination based on caste, culture, gender, and religion
Differences in political views
Spread of wrong information
Limited resources
72 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
What is conflict management?
One thing is true that a conflict cannot go on forever. Imagine you have differences
with someone in the class or you have quarreled with someone over an issue.
You cannot just go on ignoring it. You want to talk over the issue and solve the
differences. Because neither of you gain anything from the conflict. Rather you
want to share ideas and cooperate with others. Bringing peace or reconciliation
after a serious conflict is called conflict management. Managing conflict on time
prevents it from getting out of control and resulting in violence.
Role of a society in conflict management
The society has a great role to play in conflict management. To solve the problem of
conflict, the society can do a lot of things. First we have to identify the conflicts and
their reasons. The respected citizens and social activists can mediate a conflict by
bringing two opposing groups together. They can create an environment for dialogue
and communication between conflicting parties. They can try finding a common
ground of agreement through dialogue.
Role of media in conflict management
Since an unclear information transmitted by the media can lead to conflict, media
have a great role to play in conflict management. Media should not spread wrong
information. By presenting views of concerned parties impartially, media can bring
clarity and help people understand the reasons of the conflict. Besides, media help
bring clarity in thinking and educate people about the real reasons for conflict. Media
can also create an environment of dialogue, which is the most important aspect of
conflict management.
Free the Words
prolonged : continued for a long time
perception : the way you see things
mediate : try to end conflict by bringing two conflicting parties together
assert : strongly believe in something
reconciliation : end a disagreement and start good relationship
In-class Activities
The following table shows the process of conflict management. Study it and list at
least three examples of conflicts in each column.
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 73
Management by the Management by the third Management by the
conflicting parties party external force
to lessen and control to solve conflict with the to solve conflict through
the differences, anger, help of a mediator by legal means to solve or
misunderstanding though suppress the conflict by
dialogue and discussion making decision through
a body of respected using force
citizens
low use of force and probability of win and lose high
Exercise
1. Write True or False against the following statements.
a. Conflicts rarely happen in a human society.
b. Conflict always refers to a state of continued war.
c. Conflicts arise due to differences in thinking, perception, and opinions.
d. Conflicts are always bad.
e. Media can educate people about the reasons of conflict.
f. The best way to solve conflict is to talk, share, and express opinions.
2. Write very short answers to the following questions.
a. What do you mean by conflict? Give some examples.
b. What is conflict management?
c. What is the role of media in conflict management?
3. Write short answers to the following questions.
a. What are the primary reasons for conflict? List out points.
b. What role can the society play to manage conflicts? Write in points.
c. What are the main methods of solving or controlling conflicts? Explain.
d. Imagine that two of your best friends fought because each believed that the
other was spreading rumor. If you were given the responsibility to solve
the conflict, what would you do and why?
Community Project Work
In a group of 4-5 students, undertake a case study of a conflict. Find one conflict that
recently took place in the community. Do research on the conflict to find out :
What was the conflict about?
Who were the conflicting parties?
What reasons were there behind the conflict?
How was the conflict solved?
Then, present your report to the class.
74 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
3.5
Sustainable Development
Pre-reading Activities
Look at the diagram below and think of the questions followed:
Concern for the Balance between
development of future environmental conservation
generation and development
Sustainable
Development
Bearable Emphasis on social
justice
Long lasting
From the diagram, what idea do you get about sustainable development?
What are the factors related to sustainable development?
Why do you think the word “sustainable” is placed at the centre?
Reading
Sustainable development is about using resources while preserving the environment
for the future generation. A sustainable development keeps the capacity of continuity
without disturbing the environment. During and after the Second World War,
especially in the 1950s and the 60s, a large part of environment was destroyed in
the name of development; people exploited the environment and forests freely
without any future plan. Similarly, industrial waste products were thrown in the
environment. There was no awareness about fuel smoke which polluted air. So, until
the second half of the 1970s, land, air, and water were highly affected by pollution.
Development activities degraded the environment and its negative effect started to
appear on the earth. Only after much damage to the environment, it was understood
that development and environment must go side by side. Development requires the
use of natural resources which are limited. So, it became necessary to renew and
manage the equal amount of natural resources that have been used for development
if we hope to provide a balanced environment for the future generation. Otherwise,
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 75
we’ll have used up natural resources and destroyed the environment. A development
path is sustainable only if it ensures that the stocks of the resources remain constant
or increase over time. These resources include manufactured goods (machines, road,
and house), human capital (cooperation, culture, awareness) and environmental capital
(forest, water, air, mines).
In other words, sustainable development means the development that does not harm
the ecology of a place and instead, can promote ecological balance for a long time
to come. Similarly, development should take into consideration the need of the next
generation, capacity of the earth, and the amount of available natural resources.
Sustainable development carries the following objectives :
increase in the peoples participation
preserve the environment
careful and cautious utilization of natural means and resources
socio-economic growth
increase social harmony and simplify different aspect of human
development.
To achieve sustainable development, we must take the following steps:
afforestation, conservation of forest and environment
emphasis on the micro and local technology for developmental activities
emphasis on the use of alternative and renewable sources of energy
proper management of garbage and sewage of urban areas
control of the haphazard extraction of gravel, sand, stones from rivers
population control
emphasis on organic agriculture
Free the Words
environment : totality of the surrounding condition such as natural life on earth
carrying capacity : capacity to support
ecology : environment as it is related to living organisms
renewable : reusable
In-class Activities
1. Get into small groups of 4-5 students. As a group, draw a plan to improve and
preserve the environment of your school premises. Think of devising plans for
garden, playground, plantation of trees, etc. Present your detailed plan to your
principal.
76 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
Exercise
1. Write very short answers to the following questions.
a. What is sustainable development?
b. Who and when was the concept of sustainable development introduced?
c. How should the development activities be carried out?
2. Write short answers to the following questions.
a. What are the advantages of sustainable development?
b. How do the social and political factors contribute to sustainable
development?
c. It is said that sustainable development is supported by small works of
every person than by the biger projects or plans. It is a constant conscious
effort rather than big attractive slogans. Do you agree with the statement?
If so, why?
d. Write down the major roles to be played by citizens for sustainable
development.
e. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:
Social justice is an act of promoting a just society by challenging
injustice and valuing diversity. In conditions of social justice, people
are 'not discriminated against, nor their welfare and well-being'
constrained or prejudiced on the basis of gender, sexuality, religion,
political affiliations, age, race, belief, disability, location, social class,
socioeconomic circumstances, or other characteristics of background or
group membership. It is generally equated with the notion of equality
or equal opportunity in society.
Questions:
i. What is social justice?
ii. Have the backward group in your community got social justice?
iii. Write any two ways to create social justice.
Community Project Work
Interview farmers in your locality and study the farming system. Make a list of
different farming systems used by the farmers. Which farming system do you think
contributes to sustainable development?
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 77
3.6
Good Governance
Pre-reading Activities
Imagine that your school is like a state. What would you like your school to do to
ensure good education for you? Think about it and make a list of works that the
school can do for you.
Reading
Just as your school does a lot of
things to ensure good education
to you, a state does a range of
things to ensure the wellbeing of
its citizens. Your school probably
has a Management Committee to
smoothly run the school. Similarly,
a nation has a government to run
the country. If your school does
all the necessary things to provide
good education to you, you can say
the school has good governance.
In other words, good governance
is the ability of the government
to honestly and justly administer
the activities of the state, the private sector and civil society that relate to people’s
everyday life. It should create a just society based on the principles of inclusiveness,
liberty, equality and cooperation. This is the way sovereign citizens can make the
governing power transparent and accountable.
Good governance equally needs self-discipline and integrity of those in power, the
corporate sector and civil society. In democracy, it is the duty of government to provide
fast, easy and cheap service to the people. A responsible government always thinks
about people’s concerns. For this good governance is essential. Without it we cannot
think about accountable and responsible government and rule of law in the country.
For good governance, not only the nation but also individuals, civil society, leaders,
intellectuals and non-government organizations, policy makers, lawyers, etc. are
equally responsible.
78 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
The Constitution of Nepal has taken good governance as the directive principle and
policy of the state. Good governance includes a political system which:
fully abides by the universally accepted concepts of fundamental human rights
ensures people’s rights to choose their rulers
ensures rule of law, social justice and equality
ensures transparency and accountable government
ensures people’s participation in the political process
Features of good governance
People’s participation in government, politics, and development
Accountable, transparent, and responsible government and its bodies
Decentralization of power and political and decision making power in
local level
State and government under rule of law
Able to create responsible citizen
Open, up to date and transparent public auditing system
Functions of good governance
To create responsible citizen, state, and political parties
To maintain rule of law, peace and security in the country
To maintain responsible and stable government
To maintain sustainable and balanced development in the country
To increase people’s participation in politics, government, development,
and decision making level
To fulfil needs of people, according to time, space and situation
To appreciate right person and institution; to discourage and punish
wrong person and institution
Challenges of good governance
Lack of education
Rampant corruption, nepotism and favouritism
Process and step-oriented administration rather than result oriented
Lack of visionary, farsighted and result-oriented plans, policies, and strategies
Unhealthy competition in politics, political parties and leaders
Impunity, anarchism and influence of politics in every sector
External interferance and dependency
Lack of morality and accountability as well as presence of impunity
Weak and controversial laws, rules and regulations
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 79
Free the Words : including everything or everyone
: responsible
inclusiveness : accept
accountable : freedom from punishment
abide : absence of law and government
impunity
anarchism
In-class Activities
1. We need good governance in school administration and management. Write
down the major activities done by your school to promote good governance.
2. Prepare a poster or pamphlet of the given message by the National information
commission and paste on the wall of your school’s information board or on
public place.
Message by the National Information Commission
Things to be remembered by a conscious citizen:
(i) The salary of the civil servants and expenditure of the public offices comes
from the taxes paid by us.
(ii) It is our fundamental right to know how, where and for what purpose the
public money is spent.
(iii) We can see and observe the written file of any public work and construction. We
can also examine any work/task, papers and document of public importance.
(iv) We can obtain information through papers or minute record, attested
photocopy, printed diskette, pen drive, tape-recorder, video, cassette or any
electronic media.
(v) Make a habit of taking and giving public information and develop the culture
of open information.
National Information Commission, Koteshwor, Kathmandu
Toll free No: 1660-01-60000
(www.nic.gov.np)
80 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
Exercise
1. Write very short answers to the following questions.
a. What is good governance?
b. What is rule of law?
c. How can we ensure good governance?
d. Name the bodies responsible for good governance.
2. Write short answers to the following questions.
a. What are the features of good governance?
b. What is the importance of good governance in Nepal? Write in a
paragraph.
c. Describe the challenges of good governance in Nepal.
d. What provisions regarding good governance are included in the present
constitution of Nepal?
e. Name any five organizations working in the field of good governance in
Nepal.
f. As an individual and responsible citizen of this country, what can be your
responsibilities to ensure good governance? Make a list of the activities
you can do to promote good governance.
g. You might have heard about cases of corruption related to land revenue
offices. Write a letter to an organization working for good governance,
suggesting solution to such problems.
Community Work Project
Transparency International and the Commission for Investigation of Abuse of
Authority are working to ensure good governance in Nepal. Study about their
contribution to good governance in the country and write a brief report of their
specific activities.
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 81
3.7
International Organizations
Pre-reading Activities Why are children
unable to complete
50% school children do not complete primary education?
primary school in the countries
where bribery is common. How does corruption
affect children’s
Primary school completion rates, education?
for example, are affected by teacher
absenteeism, the lack of availability Why would
of text books due to corruption Transparency
and the quality of facilities such as International publish
classrooms, often left in disrepair this information?
because funds for building get
diverted due to corruption.
--Transparency International
Reading
In previous lessons, we have learnt about social problems such as corruption and
drug abuse. There are many national and international organizations that work for
the good of people and society across the world. Let us learn about such organizations.
Transparency International (TI)
Transparency International is an international non-
governmental organization. It was established on May 4, 1993
and its headquarter is in Berlin, Germany. The name Peter Eigen,
a former regional director for the World Bank comes ahead in
giving foundation to this organization. There are around 100
chapters of Transparency International in various countries,
including Nepal.
Transparency International basically works toward developing corruption free
societies across the world. Its mission is to “promote a world in which government,
politics, business, civil society, and the daily lives of people are free of corruption.”Its
core values are transparency, accountability, integrity, solidarity, courage, justice and
democracy. Towards this objective, Transparency International publishes Corruption
82 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
Perception Index (CPI) based on the existence of corruption in each country in the
world. It has been publishing Corruption Perception Index (CPI)since 1995 and Bribe
Payers Index(BPI) since 1999. Currently (2020) Nepal ranks 117th among 180 nations
in term of corruption with the score of just 33.
The main objective of this organization is to control corruption and promote
transparency, responsibility, and public accountability. The Transparency International
Nepal, a non-governmental organization, works as the country chapter of Nepal.
The organization functions as the anti-corruption agency to control corruption in
Nepal.
United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund
(UNICEF)
UNICEF was established in 1945. The main objective of the
organization is to ensure the rights of children across the world.
Ever since its establishment, the organization is working for
the benefits of children in more than 160 countries. UNICEF
specially works for the children at risk in developing countries
by running programs such as children’s education, nutrition, and
safe motherhood. With the help of UNICEF, a host of programs
related to children are being carried out in Nepal as well. The main works of UNICEF
are as follows :
Programs related to poverty alleviation
Controlling HIV infection among those children who are born of HIV
infected mothers
Controlling and providing counseling for women and children who are
addicted to drugs
Programs related to eradicate the problem of gender discrimination
Devising and advocating policies related to children’s rights
Protecting women and children who have become the victims of violence,
exploitation, and addiction
Save the Children
Established on April 15,1919 in Britain, Save the Children is
another international non-governmental organization. This
organization works in the areas of protecting children from
HIV, malnutrition, hunger, and poverty. Save the Children also
rescues children affected by conflicts and violence. Besides,
Save the Children launches programs for school children
to raise their awareness about their rights. It also supports
programs to solve social problems.
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 83
Free the Words
exploitation : a situation in which somebody treats somebody else in an unfair way
discrimination : practice of treating somebody or a group in society less fairly
than others
victim : a person who has been attacked, injured, or killed as a result of
crime, a disease or an accident
alleviation : to lessen; to reduce
In-class Activities
Study the list of main international organizations below. Get into small groups of 4-5
students. As a group select one of the organizations listed. Prepare a report on the
functions of the organization and then present the report to the class.
Agency Working sectors
UNDP Human development, community development
and other development activities
UNFPA Support for women development, empowerment
and free legal help for women.
ILO It watches log of labour law, its implementation,
(World Food Program) end of child labour, helps them in education and
shelter.
WFP It helps the people suffering from starvation.
At present, it is working for Bhutanese refugees
and supplying food.
DANIDA It works for deaf people, forest and local self
government in Nepal.
Directorate General for Helping ex-kamaiyas, training and home for
International Service, homeless women, wastage management in
Netherlands (SNV Nepal) Kathmandu valley
International Fellowship Nepal Rehabilitation for drug addicts, training and
– INF income generating works
Jaycees, Rotary club, Leo club, Community works like health, environment,
Lions club sports etc. They help the disabled children.
Lutheran World Federation Working with Dalits, provides legal advices and
supports for their participation in development
84 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
Exercise
1. Write True or False against the following statements.
a. International non-governmental organizations are mostly profit-making
organizations.
b. Transparency International punishes countries where there is corruption.
c. Transparency International publicizes cases of corruption.
d. UNICEF works for women’s problems only.
e. UNICEF works for children’s problems.
f. Save the Children works to protect children from violence.
2. Write very short answers to the following questions.
a. What is an international organization?
b. What is the mission of Transparency International?
c. What is the main objective of UNICEF?
d. When was Save the Children established?
e. What does DANIDA do in Nepal?
3. Write short answers to the following questions.
a. What is Transparency International? What is the main objective of
Transparency International?
b. What is CPI? What does CPI published in 2018 indicate about Nepal?
c. How are international organizations such as UNICEF and Save the
Children able to solve social problem?
d. What are the main functions of UNICEF? Make a list.
e. Make a list of works of Save the Children to protect children.
Community Project Work
Do some research and find out at least three programs currently being carried out by
UNICEF and Save the Children in Nepal.
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 85
Unit Review
In this unit, we have learnt that :
Social problems are caused by anti-social behavior, superstitious beliefs,
and evil practices
In Nepal, human trafficking, drug abuse, corruption, child labor, violence
against women and children are some of the major social problems.
Giving and taking money to make someone do something dishonestly is
called bribery.
Misuse of public property for personal benefits and giving unfair
advantages to one’s family and relatives are forms of corruption.
Drug addiction is a social problem that affects the person, family, and
society at large.
Drug addiction causes loss of property, family break up, diseases and loss
of social prestige.
Conflicts arise due to differences of opinions, thinking and perception.
Conflicts can be resolved through dialogue, communication, and
sometimes by the use of force.
Sustainable development is to mobilize and utilize resources to preserve
the environment and resources for future generation.
International non-governmental organizations such as Transparency
International, UNICEF, and Save the Children work towards controlling
and solving social problems across the globe.
Test Your Knowledge
1. Choose the correct answer.
a. Which of the following is not a social problem?
i. Lack of drinking water supply
ii. Drug Abuse
iii. Corruption
iv. Girls trafficking
b. Which of the following is not the cause of social problems?
i. lack of education
ii. lack of skills and training
86 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
iii. lack of peace in society
iv. lack of colleges and universities
b. Which one is not considered corruption?
i. spending a lot of money
ii. bribery
iii. nepotism
iv. dishonest policies
c. Which one is true?
i. there is more corruption among developing countries
ii. there is more corruption among small countries
iii. there is more corruption among Asian and African countries
iv. there is rampant corruption in Nepal
d. Which is not the effect of drug addiction?
i. lack of honesty
ii. family breakup
iii. feeling lonely and isolated
iv. mental imbalance
e. Which one is not the role of school in controlling drug abuse among
youth?
i. treating and rehabbing the addicts
ii. raising awareness about the bad effects of drug abuse
iii. informing parents about children’s behavior
iv. counseling about drug abuse
f. Which is not the cause of conflict?
i. difference in thinking
ii. spread of wrong information
iii. limited resources
iv. discussion and dialogue
g. Which one is not the role of media in resolving conflicts?
i. bringing clarity in information
ii. explaining the causes of conflicts
iii. spreading sensational news
iv. educating people about the conflict
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 87
B. Write short answers to the following questions.
1. How can social problems such as drug abuse be solved?
2. What are international organizations?
3. What role can Transparency International play in developing a world free of
corruption?
4. What are the major functions of UNDP?
5. What role should you play to help control drug abuse among youth?
6. What is good governance?
7. How does good governance help solve social problems?
8. What is transparency? How is it beneficial for development?
C. Read the given report of Corruption Perception Index (CPI) and answer
the questions followed:
Rank Countries Score
1 New Zealand 88
1 Denmark 88
24 Bhutan 68
75 Maldives 43
86 India 40
94 Sri Lanka 38
117 Nepal 33
124 Pakistan 31
146 Bangladesh 26
165 Afghanistan 19
179 Somalia 12
Source: Transparency International, 2020
i) What is the rank of Nepal in CPI?
ii) Which are the least and most corrupted nations in South Asia?
iii) The corruption rate in developed nations is comparatively low. Give
reasons.
Project work:
1. Visit a development site in your locality. Observe the activities there.
Then, prepare a report explaining whether the development taking
place can be considered sustainable.
88 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
Unit
4
Civic Awareness
Learning Objectives
Upon the completion of this unit, students will be able to :
observe by the civic rules
follow and protect human rights
understand social inclusiveness and act accordingly
find out the key features of current constitution of Nepal
define and understand the functions of legislative, executive, and
judiciary
explain the roles of a citizen under federal democratic republican
government
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 89
4.1
Social Rules and Regulations
Pre-reading Activities
As students of your school, what rules are you expected to follow? What happens when
you :
arrive late for class?
don’t show up in a proper uniform?
fall sick and cannot attend classes?
need to go out in the middle of a class?
fight with someone?
Think of these questions and write rules related to incidents mentioned in the
questions. Discuss why you are expected to follow rules of the school?
Reading
Have you realized some rules that you follow at school and get punished
for not following them are extended forms of social rules? Rules tell people
what to do and what not to do in a society. Like your school, the members
of a society make rules and regulations to manage the society properly, keep
it clean, control crimes, and to promote a culture of good relationship and
cooperation. Such rules are not laws in the sense that the members of a society
will hardly be sued in the court of law for violating them. However, these rules
are mostly based on communal agreement and goodwill. As such, these rules
bind the community together and promote goodwill among people.
Most social rules are based on traditional beliefs and customs, norms and
values. Such rules tend to differ from one community to another. In a society,
people create authorities to make sure that every member of the community
follows the rule. Such authorities may be in the form of Guthi, groups, clubs,
and social organizations. For example, there may be a group called—Aama
Samuha (a group of mothers) who work against social evils such as drug abuse
and alcoholism. If someone does not follow the social rules, the society may
punish the person.
90 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
Social rules are not permanent. As the society changes, such rules also need
to be changed. For example, many years ago, a lot of social rules in Nepali
communities were based on traditional beliefs such as untouchability
promoting discrimination among people. These rules had to be changed to
develop an inclusive and just society. If social rules are not changed with
the changes taking place in the society, they take the form of social evils and
malpractices.
Free the Words
inclusive : including a wide range of people irrespective of caste, religion,
and gender
beliefs : strongly held opinions about something
communal : related to community
untouchability : practice of discriminating people based on someone’s caste
In-class Activities
1. Read the following blog post by Kishol about the work done by Aama Samuha
and answer the questions that follow.
;dfh lgdf{0fdf cfdf ;d"xsf] el" dsf
x'g t b]zsf] c? eu] df s] s:tf] 5 yfxf 5}g t/ xfd|f] ufpFdf
eg] cfdf ;dx" sf] 7n" } ofu] bfg 5 . ufpFsf] h8\ofxfnfO{ 7Ls
kfgb{ l] v lnP/ ufpF ljsf;sf] Ph]08fnfO{ b]zsf] lglt lgdf0{ f tx
;Dd k'¥ofpg oLlgx?g} cu|;/ xG' 5g\ . ufpFsf ;fgftLgf ljsf;
sfox{ ?sf] nflu logLx? ;/sf/sf] dv' tfs]/ a:b}gg\ . ufpFd}
:yflgo ;|f]t h'6fpgdf logLx? sg' } s;/ afFls /fVbg} g\ . s'/f d]/f]
cfˆg} ufpFsf] u/f} .
d/] f] ufpFdf cfdf ;dx" sf] cjwf/0ff To:t} @)^) lt/ cfPsf] xf] . Photo: ekantipur.com
Tof] an] f bl] v ufpFdf cfdf ;dx" n] w]/} g} kl/jt{g u/s] f 5g\ . To;
an] f b]lv clxn];Dd cfdf ;d"xn] ljBfno lgdf{0f÷Joj:yfkg, jfrgfno lgdf0{ f, k|ltIffno lgdf0{ f, dlGb/
lgdf0{ f, af6f] lgdf{0f tyf ddt{ nufotsf yk' |} sfo{x? u/L ;s]sf 5g\ . ;fob lt s'/fx?sf nflu ;/sf/sf]
d'v tfs/] a;s] f] eP d]/f] ;dfh ;'wf/sf] sfo{df klg plQs} nfUg] u/s] f 5g\ . ha ufpFdf h8\ofxfx? hfF8
vfP/ ;dfhsf] jftfj/0f laufg]{ sfd u5{g\, ltgLx?nfO{ tx nufpg cfdf ;dx" g} cuf8L ;g{] ub5{ g\, bz}
ltxf/ cfof,] ufpFsf] af6f] emfF8L a9\of], lx8\g] af6f] cˆ6\of/f] eof,] lo ;a} s/' fx?df cfdf ;d"x cfkm} s6' f]sf]
bfnf] nufPtsf cfh} f/x? afs] ]/ lgl:sg] ub{5g\ .
a. What is this blog post about?
b. What kind of a group is Aama Samuha?
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 91
c. What is the writer’s view of Aama Samiha’s contribution to the village?
d. Which work done by this Amma Samuha do you appreciate and why?
e. What kind of social rules does Aama Samuha mentioned above seems to have
devised? List them.
Exercise
1. Write very short answers to the following questions.
a. What are social rules?
b. Why do we have to follow social rules?
c. “To follow social rules is our civic duty.” Justify the statement.
2. Write long answers to the following questions.
a. What are some of the features of social rules? Why are they not laws?
b. How can an individual and society be benefited by following social rules?
c. What kind of social rules and practices need to be changed with the passage
of time? Write with examples.
d. If you were an elderly member of your community, what social rules would
you like to devise to regulate the society? Write in points.
3. Identify any social organizations or local clubs in your community. Find
out their objectives,activities and major tasks done till now. Then prepare a
report and present it to the class.
Community Work Project
Selecting members from your class, form “A Group to Solve Social Problems.”
As a group, select two social problems prevalent in your community. Then,
suggest social rules that can be made and followed to solve the problem.
92 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
4.2
Human Rights
Pre-reading Activities
Read the news clip below and discuss the case.
A 7-year-old student was brutally beaten Why do you think corporal
by stick, resulting in multiple fractures, punishment at school still
and then locked up for three hours by continues?
his principal here on Friday. The family
of the victim has lodged a complaint What alternative ways can
against the principal. be used to motivate students
to study?
Source: e-Kantipur
Do you think it is a case of the
violation of human rights?
Reading
As conscious individuals,
humans expect respectful
treatment that reflects
human values. The
treatment of an individual,
group or a state towards
human beings, therefore,
must be based on the
principle of peace, freedom,
justice, and dignity. In this
regard, human right means
the right of an individual to develop his or her personality without discrimination. The
concept of human rights was brought forth by Eleanor Roosevelt. With her initiation
and support, United Nations made a declaration of human rights on December
10, 1948. This declaration helped secure human rights universally. The principle of
Human Rights states that 'Human rights are universal and inalienable; indivisible;
interdependent and interrelated. They are universal because everyone is born with
and possesses the same rights, regardless of where they live, their gender or race, or
their religious, cultural or ethnic background'. We celebrate December 10 as the day
of human rights.
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 93
The following is the summary of UN’s declaration of universally held human rights:
1. Every individual is born free and should be treated equally.
2. There should not be any form of discrimination based on race, colour,
religion, nationality, language and so on.
3. Every individual has right to live a life.
4. Rights against slavery
5. Rights against torture
6. Every person has equal rights irrespective of place of residency.
7. Everybody is equal in the eyes of law.
8. Nobody can be put in prison without conviction of a crime.
9. Rights are protected through laws.
10. Everybody has access to legal protection.
11. Nobody can be deemed criminal unless it is proved in the court of law.
12. Everyone has rights to privacy.
13. Everyone has rights to travel within a country.
14. A person can go anywhere for security.
15. Everyone has rights to citizenship.
16. Everyone has rights to marry and have a family.
17. Everybody has rights to own property.
18. Everyone has rights to follow a religion.
19. Everyone has rights to express his or her views.
20. Everyone has rights to gather and form an organization.
21. Everyone has rights to vote.
22. Everyone has rights to social security.
23. Everyone has rights to work and receive salary.
24. Everyone has rights to rest and entertain after some work.
25. Right to food, shelter and care to disabled.
26. Rights to education
27. Rights to copyright of original work
28. Rights to enjoy human rights
29. Everybody has the duty not to encroach upon others’ rights.
30. Nobody has right to violate human rights.
The Constitution of Nepal has made a provision of National Human Rights Commission
to ensure people’s human rights. The NHRC works towards ensuring rights of people
as per the constitution and the laws of the nation. Similarly, organizations such as
Amnesty International, Informal Sector Service Center (INSEC), and INHURED work
towards raising awareness about human rights.
94 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
Free the Words
encroach : to affect someone’s rights
copyright : legal right to publish, own a creative work; others must ask for
permission from the person who holds the copyright
conviction : the act of finding someone guilty of a crime
dignity : prestige
In-class Activities
You must have read about or heard of cases of human rights violation. To protect
human rights, we must work at different levels—individual, community, and
state. In the table below, write what can each of the following do to protect
human rights/ what role they can play.
Individual Family Community State
Exercise
1. Write very short answers to the following questions.
a. How would you define “human rights”?
b. Who first advocated for human rights?
c. What is social security?
d. What are included in the rights of freedom of speech?
e. What kind of work does National Human Rights Commission perform?
2. Write long answers to the following questions.
a. Why do you think the issue of human rights became important after the
Second World War? Explain.
b. Study the summary of the universal declaration of human rights. Then,
note down the acts that protect the rights of children.
c. Think of cases that are not included in human rights. Write a letter
to the UN urging it to include such cases as human rights. Offer strong
reason why you think the class you have chosen should be included in
human rights.
Community Project Work
Keep track of newspaper stories of violence against women and children over a
period of one week. Prepare a case report of how each incident is or is not a case of
human rights violation. Also suggest ways of controlling violence against women and
children.
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 95
4.3
Women’s Rights
Pre-reading Activities
Read the news item below :
KATHMANDU, 25 November 2015 (IRIN) - Married at the age of 12, Radha has
been a victim of domestic violence for two decades.
“I’m used to it now. What choice do I have?” asked Radha who works as a maid in
more than three houses, earning less than US$30 per month, to support her children.
She gets absolutely no support from her alcoholic husband.
“I have to survive for my children. They will be homeless if I leave my husband,”
the 32-year old told IRIN in Kathmandu, where incidents of domestic violence often
go unreported.
Despite campaigns against gender-based violence over several decades, beating,
slapping, kicking, hair-pulling, verbal abuse, as well as the use of sticks, knives and
acid remain common forms of domestic violence in Nepal, experts say.
Source: Humanitarian News and Analysis (UN)
Take a few minutes and discuss the case of Radha. Think of the following questions.
a. How has Radha become the victim of domestic violence?
b. What do you think are some of the reasons for violence against women in our
society?
c. What can be done to fight against domestic violence in Nepal?
Reading
As the eighth graders of Namuna High School read
the news about Radha, they were shocked. The class
came to the conclusion that Radha’s case was an
example of violation of human rights. They began
discussing the issue with their Social Studies teacher.
Student 1: Madam, isn’t this a case of human rights
violation?
Teacher: Yes, it is. Moreover, it is also a case of the violation of women’s rights.
96 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
Student 2: We have heard a lot about women’s rights and empowerment of women.
We would like to know what constitutes women’s rights.
Teacher: You have already learnt about human rights. Women’s rights is also a
part of human rights. In 1967, United Nations published a set of declarations and
reinterpreted human rights for the protection of women’s rights. Later in 1993, UN
General Assembly made public the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against
Women. These two declaration established the rights of women.
Student 3: That seems a right thing to do. But, what constitutes women’s rights?
Teacher: Women’s rights can be enumerated in this way :
Elimination of violence against women based on gender
Provision of maternal leave, maternal health care, and right to reproduction
Equal pay for the work of same nature
Right to inherit parental property
Rights to marriage, family life, and education
Elimination of child marriage
Student 4: Despite all these rights guaranteed by international and national laws, I
wonder why women are still treated unfairly?
Teacher: That’s a good question. There are many reasons why women still suffer and
lag behind their male counterparts. Some of the reasons are :
Patriarchal social structure
Traditional thinking and discrimination against women
Deprivation of women from educational opportunities
Wrong social belief that women are weak and passive
Lack of maternal healthcare
Ineffective programs for women’s empowerment
Student 4: We would like to know about efforts made so far to establish women’s
right and empower them.
Teacher: The problems faced by women have been recognized. In case of Nepal, the
Constitution of Nepal has made provision for women rights. It also has made provision
for the elimination of discrimination against women. For example, the constitution has
established women’s rights in parental property. Similarly, the constitution has given
directives to formulate laws and policies to provide education, health services, and
employment to women. For this, the state has adopted the principle of inclusiveness
to increase women’s participation in every sector of the state. Nepal has established
a separate ministry to look after the rights of women and children. The ministry
runs programs to empower women and protect their rights. We also have a National
Women Commission. Besides, Nepal has also signed the convention of 1979 that aims
at eliminating all forms of discrimination against women. We also celebrate March 8
as the International Women’s Day.
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 97
Free the Words
empower : giving somebody power or authority
patriarchal : ruled or controlled by males
constitute : become a part of
provision : legal arrangement
In-class Activities
Get in groups of 4-5 students and discuss what aspect of women’s problems have
been addressed in Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Then, taking the case of
Radha as an example or your own knowledge about the problems faced by women in
our society, make a list of rights of women that need to be included in the Declaration
of Human Rights.
Exercise
1. Write very short answers to the following questions.
a. Write the major declaration made by the UN General Assembly in 1993.
b. Name the constitutional body in Nepal related to the women.
c. Why do we celebrate March 8 as the Women’s Day?
2. Write long answers to the following questions.
a. What are women’s rights? Explain.
b. What are some of the forms of violence usually committed against
women and children? Explain
c. What is women’s empowerment? What can be done to empower them?
Explain.
d. The lesson mentions about National Women Commission. Do some
research or ask your teacher about it. Then, make a list of the works
this commission does for women.
e. Imagine that you are selected to give a speech on the occasion of Women’s
Day. Write a speech that highlights the problems faced by women and
suggests ways to empower women.
Community Project Work
Survey some national dailies. Pick the news about violence against women and
children. Select one case and then prepare a report about it. In the report, address the
following questions:
What happened?
Who were the victim of the incident?
What reasons were there behind the violence?
What can be done to avoid such incidents?
98 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
4.4
Inclusiveness
Pre-reading Activities
Imagine that your class is responsible
for carrying out a host of school
improvement programs such as
upgrading the library, developing
sports facilities, and creating better
learning environment in classrooms.
Form a committee of 11 members. Make
sure that the committee is inclusive.
That is, students belonging to different
religions, castes, geographical locations
and those who practise different
cultures and speak different languages are proportionately present in the committee.
Then, write a paragraph stating how your committee is inclusive. Also make a list of
criteria you have applied to make it inclusive.
Reading
You must have realized that you needed to
discuss a lot and think over many issues
when you formed the “School Improvement
Committee.” Probably, you also needed to
make compromises. You did a wonderful job
as a participant in the exercise of inclusion. By
now, you must have also understood how your
class is a miniature form of larger diversity our
country possesses.
As you know, Nepal is one of the most diverse
countries in the world. This diversity is marked
by many languages we speak, many religions we
follow, many cultures we practise, and diverse
geographical regions we come from. In fact, diversity is a strength of a society provided
that there is no discrimination in terms of one’s gender, sex, religion, culture, language,
and place of residency. A just society makes sure that all the people, irrespective of the
Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8 99
cultural, religious, and linguistic differences, get equal opportunity to participate in every
area—politics, development, business, education of the nation. There should not be a
feeling of isolation or neglect among any group of people.
In this respect, the practice of a nation of providing equal opportunities to all its
peoples and bringing people who are lagging behind, suppressed, and discriminated
within the mainstream is in fact called inclusiveness. Often a nation adopts the
policy of affirmative action, according to which people who have historically
been marginalized, backward, and discriminated get a preferential treatment
through job reservation. In order to develop an inclusive and just social structure,
the nation can take the following measures:
Ensuring proportionate representation in every organ of the state
Increasing opportunities of education, health, and employment
Respecting and recognizing identities of people based on gender, caste,
religion, language, and geographical location
Ensuring safe place for backward group at policy formation and decision
making level
Providing justice to all the people
Providing special facilities to differently able and under-privileged people
Increasing participation of people belonging to diverse cultures in national
development and ensuring regional balance
Maintaining religious, cultural, and social harmony among people
Free the Words
marginalize : to make someone feel as if they are not important
mainstream : ideas or views thought to be normal or acceptable
suppressed : being prevented from growing, developing
irrespective : without considering something or being influenced by it
miniature : in a smaller form
In-class Activities
Conduct a mini-survey to find out how inclusive the workplace at your school or at a
public office in your locality is. Visit the site and ask questions to obtain information
about:
How many males work there?
How many females work there?
What is the composition of the workforce in terms of religion, caste,
culture, and language?
100 Oasis Social Studies and Population Education 8
The words you are searching are inside this book. To get more targeted content, please make full-text search by clicking here.
Social Studies 8
Discover the best professional documents and content resources in AnyFlip Document Base.
Search