Social Studies 9

Exercise

A. Offer very short answer to the following questions.
1. When did the economic planning start in Nepal?
2. What were the sectors focussed by the first plan in Nepal?
3. Which plan gave the foundation to the concept of public-private partnership?
4. Upto which plan in Nepal, only infrastructure was given due priority?

B. Offer short answer to the following questions.
1. What was the condition of development like during and after the Rana rule?
2. Briefly write about the history of economic planning in Nepal.
3. What are the major achievements of periodic plans in Nepal?
4. What are the reasons behind the lack of implementation of many plans and
projects?
5. What are some of the shortcomings of planning in Nepal?
6. How can people’s participation in planning help implement projects?

C. Offer long answer to the following questions.
1. What are some of factors that the planners should take into consideration?
2. Explain the long-term vision, objectives, goals and strategies of the current plan.
3. Show all the economic plans that have been implemented so far in Nepal.

Self- Discovery: Project Work

Visit the office of National Planning Commission or their web page at www.npc.
gov.np or find any published material by the commission in which yearly plans
and programs are given in detail. Take one of the periodic plans as your subject
of inquiry. Write a progress report. In your report, include information related
to a) Major projects b) Major development policies c) Major strategies d) Budget
allocated e) Achievements made. Present your report to the class.

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Lesson Poverty Alleviation and the

8.12 Creation of Employment

Opportunities

Pre-reading Activity

The following table shows the state of poverty in Nepal over the decade.

Year Percentage of population living in poverty

1995 42

2003 31

2004 30.9

2008 24.7

2011 25.2

Source: CBS, The Third Living Standard Survey, 2011

From 1995 to 2011, poverty in Nepal has been reduced by 17%. Do you think it is a
significant achievement? Or, do you think the reduction is not enough given the fact.
that a large number of people are still living below the poverty line? Give reasons to
support your choice.

Reading

People who are unable to fulfill their basic needs are called
poor. According to the World Bank, people who are unable
to take at least 1800 calories per day and have per-capita
income less than $270 are called poor. According to the
Nepali Living Standard Survey, 2003/04, absolute poverty
decreased by 11 percent from 42 to 31 in a decade. Within
last five years, poverty has been reduced to 25 percent. Some
of the main reasons for the decrease in poverty in Nepal in recent time are the following:

(i) Increase in minimum wage for agricultural and non-agricultural labours

(ii) Increasing urbanization

(iii) Rise in economically active population

(iv) Increase in the amount of remittance entering the country from foreign employment
Poverty, however, cannot be taken in absolute terms. In fact, there are different types of
poverty. So are its causes and effects on the society. For example, urban poverty tends to
be different from rural poverty. Poverty also varies in terms of gender, geography, and
caste. Historically, lower caste people and those who live in remote areas tend to suffer

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from poverty. It is mostly because people of this group lack opportunity for education
and employment. In terms of property ownership, women tend to be poorer than men.

Causes of poverty

In Nepal, there are different causes of poverty. The effects of poverty also are varied. The
following table shows some of the causes and effects of poverty.

Causes of poverty Effects of poverty

• Illiteracy, unemployment, and lack of • Illiteracy and low living standard
Low social status and dependency
resources • Poor health and malnutrition
Inability to save and invest
• Unequal distribution of resources • Inability to meet the basic needs
Lack of entertainment and happiness
• Conflicts, natural disasters such as •
drought, earthquake, and flood No access to nutritious food and healthy
• lifestyle
• Social evils, autocratic government Inability to participate in public and
• development activities
• Lack of markets for goods and services Increase in crime, conflict, and
lawlessness
• Lack of proactive government policies • Conflicts within and between family
and community
and plans

• Political instability and weak •

government

• Lack of positive discrimination to help •

the poor

• Lack of investment and saving •

Ways to reduce poverty

1. Creation of employment opportunities
2. Sustainable development with the use of local means and

resources, skills and technology
3. Continuous source of income
4. Short and long-term training to develop skills
5. Applicable, sellable and technical education that can support

rural economy
6. Justifiable distribution of resources to increase productivity
7. Good governance, efficient, transparent and impartial administration
8. Commercialization of agriculture and development of local markets
9. Provision of soft loan to farmers
10. Priority to agriculture in periodical planning

11. Infrastructure development in rural areas

Interim Three-Year Plan has adopted the following policies regarding poverty alleviation
and promotion of employment:

• Investment will be increased for reconstruction, rehabilitation, reintegration and
infrastructure development.

• The strategy of economic growth based on inclusiveness will be made favourable to
poverty alleviation.

• Inclusive, targeted and special regional programs will be carried out in various
sectors. A system of identifying the population living below poverty line will be

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developed with the objective of making targeted programs reach the concerned
groups effectively.
• Production-oriented employment will be promoted to reduce the condition of
unemployment and under-employment.
• Skill developing programs and concessional loans will be provided to youth who
belong to poor and marginalized communities.
• Subsistence-oriented production system will be commercialized by increasing small
savings, ordinary skills and the productive use of limited land through cooperatives.

Glossary

alleviation : reduction
conservative : not open to new ideas
positive discrimination : preferential treatment to someone to uplift their

consequently living standard and to provide opportunity such as
job reservation for women
: as a result

In-class Activity

Conduct a speech program in your school on ‘Poverty and Children.’ As you
prepare the speech, think of including information related to causes of poverty,
how it affects children, and what can be done to help children who have been
suffering from poverty.

Exercise

A. Offer very short answer to the following questions.
1. What is poverty?
2. According to latest data what is the poverty rate of Nepal?
3. Does poverty remain uniform? Why ?
4. What is poverty alleviation?
5. Write any one way to reduce poverty of your community.

B. Offer short answer to the following questions.

1. How is poverty measured? Do you agree with the definition of poverty given by
the World Bank? Give reasons.

2. What are some of the causes and consequences of poverty?
3. Why is Nepal unable to reduce poverty despite giving it high priority? Give reasons.
4. How can poverty be reduced? Give some remedial measures.
5. Describe the government efforts to alleviate poverty from the country.
C. Offer a long answer to the following question.

Highlight the strategies adopted by the eleventh Interim Three-Year Plan to reduce
poverty.

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Lesson Entrepreneurship

8.13

Pre-reading Activity

List out the famous entrepreneurs of Nepal. Write down their types of business.

Reading

The word entrepreneurship has been derived from entrepreneur. According to Collin
Burrow, an entrepreneur is a person who has commercial transaction to get profit.
According to this definition, an individual who accepts to take any kind of risk related to
investment for profit, explore new opportunities and identify the sources for investment
is an entrepreneur.

The following are the activities done by an entrepreneur
1. To identify new goods
2. To adopt a new method of production
3. To explore a new market
4. To identify a new source of raw materials
5. To bring a change in organization and management in a new and different way

Essential traits of an entrepreneur

1. One should have capacity to think in a new way.

2. One should have capacity of explore, understand and analyse.

3. One should have the understanding that one cannot be an entrepreneur just because
of parental property.

4. There should be an understanding that there is no any preference to any caste to be
an entrepreneur.

5. One should have the courage to take any risk in business.

6. One should have motivation and job efficiency to materialize what one thinks of
instead of just imagination.

Entrepreneurship

All the activities related to the enterprise done by an entrepreneur is called entrepreneurship.
Some say entrepreneurship is risk-taking whereas others say entrepreneurship is
exploring activities. In short, all kinds of efforts and activities to be an entrepreneur are
entrepreneurship.

Advantage of entrepreneurship

(a) Increase in production: In case there is development of entrepreneurship, saving

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scattered in the society can be collected and mobilized in areas of scarcity. As a
result, there will be development of human resources and means. Consequently,
there will be growth of economic activities.

(b) Increase in quality of products: An entrepreneur produces goods with a new
thought and way. It is necessary to improve quality of products to make them stay
in the market for a long time.

(c) Means of change: Even if just an entrepreneur establishes his/her enterprise in
the society, he/she will certainly give a new thing. If we keep a new thought of
producing a new goods in a new way and selling in a new market, there will be
necessary changes in the society.

(d) Increase in capital: Income increases as the entrepreneurship develops and
economic activities increase. Consequently, capital increases, the rate of capital
formation increases and reinvestment takes place.

capital : Glossary
reinvestment :
money invested to generate income

the act of investing again

In-class Activity

There are two types of entrepreneurship. Social and economic entrepreneurship.
Social entrepreneurship involves the activities directly linked with the ultimate
goal of creating social values like creating social awareness, playing active role
as a member of child club, etc. Economic entrepreneurship incorporates making
economic gains and saving money involving in different economic activities. In
which entrepreneurship are you involved in your school? Explain.

Exercise

A. Offer very short answer to the following questions.
1. How does entrepreneur differ from entrepreneurship?
2. Why does an entrepreneur take risk for an investment?
3. Can one become a successful entrepreneur just because of parental property?
4. According to you, is entrepreneurship risk-taking or exploring activities?
B. Offer short answer to the following questions.
1. Who is an entrepreneur? Write down the major activities done by an entrepreneur.
2. What are the essential traits of an entrepreneur? Explain.
C. Offer a long answer to the following question.
What do you understand by entrepreneurship? Explain the advantages of

entrepreneurship.

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Lesson Creation of Work and

8.14 Management

Pre-reading Activity

Are there any jobless youths wandering in your community? If yes, who has to play
what sort of role to solve the problem? Discuss in the class.

Reading

There was a tea stall in Garamani. Villagers and travellers took tea there. For their
entertainment, the shopkeeper managed carromboard, ludos, and snakes and ladders in
the shop. The unemployed youths of the village always played carromboard and the adults
played ludo and snakes and ladders. Later, they started playing snakes and ladders for
gambling. They used to give a certain amount to the shopkeeper at the end. Some used to
play cards inside the tea shop whereas some drank alcohol. Not only unemployed people,
even farmers and office bearers gathered there during their leisure. The shopkeeper made
profit in business. There used to be crowd in the shop and outside as well.

Gradually, there were quarrels, robbery, theft, conflict in the village. As a result, the village
was defamed in the surrounding areas. The local inhabitants felt ashamed of all those
activities. Some of the educated unemployed youths wandered around. They thought
of solving unemployment problem in the village. They met the chairperson of the co-
operative and proposed him to find solution to unemployment problem. The co-operative
had a talk with the chairperson of Gaunpalika (Rural Municipality). The co-operative and
the Gaunpalika jointly decided to provide skill-oriented training to the youths. After the
training, the co-operative decided to provide soft loan to them.

All the unemployed youths of the village were given training according to their demands.
Training was conducted on handicraft, computer, animal husbandry, cash crops, cottage
industry, carpentry, masonry, wiring, plumbing, etc. Youths actively participated in training
programs. After the training program, they borrowed loan from the co-operative and
started their own business. Some started mushroom farming, some off-season vegetable
farming, some kiwi, some shops, some furniture factories, some tomato farming, some
pickle industries, some pig farming, some cyber centres and some cone factories.

Everyone made a plan for their business. They managed land, capital and labour. They
explored market for the sale of their products. Now, they are quite busy. Not only are they
employed, but also they have employed others too. Their economic status has improved
drastically. They are paying principal and interest of the co-operative regularly. Now
there is peaceful environment in Garamani. This village has got a new life. Most of the

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social problems have been solved as most of the people are engaged. They don't have
much leisure time. All other villages are also trying to learn from Garamani. Garamani
has become a model village.

defamed Glossary
mason
: spoiled one's reputation

: a skilled worker involved in working with stone,
bricks, concrete, etc.

In-class Activity

Unemployment is one of the major problems of Nepal. Make a plan to solve the
problem of unemployment.

Exercise

A. Offer very short answer to the following questions.
1. What do you understand by creation of work?
2. How can we manage work?
3. Write any two major problems of your community.
4. Write down any two major roles you played to solve the problems of your

community.

B. Offer short answer to the following questions.
1. Describe the major problems of Garamani.
2. How was the problem of the village solved?

C. Offer a long answer to the following question.
There might be some problems around your locality similar to Garamani. State the
problems with their solutions.

Self- Discovery: Project Work

Get into small groups and make a list of economic tasks or activities people can be
involved within the rural areas of Nepal. What possible changes can occur in the
overall aspects of the rural population? Discuss in the class.

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Lesson Labour

8.15

Pre-reading Activity

List out the occupations/ jobs in your community which are given less priority by
people. Why do you think people are indifferent to those jobs? Discuss in the class.

Reading

In general sense, labour is physical work or hard-work. To carry loads, to dig, to build a
house, to work in a factory, etc. are some of the examples of labour. But economists do not
consider hard-work as labour. If the physical and mental work fetches some wage, then
only it is called labour.

- The effort of an individual with the objective of obtaining some goods using his/her
hands or mind is called labour. -Marshal

- All the activities that are done for a living is called labour. - A.H. Smith

- Labour Act 2048 has defined labour in the following way:

A worker means an individual who works in production work or work to provide services
or to work in the land used for work or machinery or in a part of it. A labourer means
an individual who works related to such work or any other emergency work and gets
remuneration for it. Labourers mean the workers working under contract also.

Types of labour

Labour has been classified into three types:

(a) Productive and unproductive labour
Legal work that benefits the society is the productive labour. Illegal work, ie. theft,

smuggling that harms the society is called unproductive labour.

(b) Skilled and unskilled labour
Any work that requires special training, skill and education is called skilled labour,

i.e. doctors, lawyers, teachers, engineers, etc. The work that does not need any special
education and training is unskilled labour.

(c) Physical and mental labour
The work that requires physical activities means physical labour, i.e. labourers,

farmers. The work that requires more mental energy than physical activity is called
mental labour, i.e. doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers, etc.

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Importance of labour

Labour plays an important role in the economic development of the country. It is not
possible to produce any goods or services without labour. Labour means freezed capital
and active means to mobilize resources. If every labourer is given education and training,
his/her work will improve qualitatively. As a result, he/she becomes skilled and able
labourer. Goods for our needs are produced if labour is used to the maximum extent.
Surplus products can be exported to earn foreign currency. People's income will increase
with the increase in economic activities of the country. Consequently, national income will
increase.
Every year 0.4 million labourers are ready for the labour market in Nepal. Nepal and
Nepali will be highly benefitted if we can create an environment to utilize the labourers in
the country itself. But all these human resources are benefitting foreign land more.

Dignity of labour

Though Nepal has ample natural
means and resources, they are not
utilized properly due to lack of capital
and skilled manpower. Everyday
unemployment is increasing. Most of
the people are wandering for
employment. They hesitate to take up
any kind of job. They would rather like
to be unemployed. This is not a good
culture. No work is mean or great. We
must know how to respect labour. King
Jayastithi Malla divided the castes on
the basis of work. The same culture still
has an influence in the society of Nepal.
We do not want to do the same kind of job here in Nepal but in the foreign employment
we are ready to do even lower level jobs. Why should we not do the same kind of job in
our own country? This is one of the reasons why we are one of the least developed
countries. Nepal will remain backward unless we respect labour. We must respect the
work we do and we must respect the work done by others. The habit of not working
ourselves and criticizing the work done by others is not a good habit.

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We can get enough self-employment opportunities after receiving skill-oriented training.
It is rather to toil here in the country rather than paying thousands of rupees to the broker
to go to a foreign country to do a menial job. Everyday around 1500 Nepali youths are
going to foreign countries in search of jobs. These human resources can be utilized in our
country to improve her economic status. Therefore, we must develop the tendency of
giving every work the same regard, neither small nor great. We must consider our work
as the greatest of all.

Glossary

remuneration : an amount of money paid to someone for his/her work
surplus :
additional, excess

In-class Activity

Visit any five houses of your community and talk to the members of those houses.
How do they take different jobs done in their community ? Prepare a report based
on their evaluation of jobs.

Exercise

A. Offer very short answer to the following questions.
1. How has A.H. Smith defined labour?
2. What is the difference between labourer and worker?
3. Write any two importance of labour.
4. Why should we respect every work?

B. Offer short answer to the following questions.
1. Explain the types of labour with examples.
2. 'There is no possibility of production without labour.' Justify the statement.
3. 'Labour creates employment.' How far do you agree with the statement? Explain.
4. 'Labour is required to increase production.' Explain the statement.
5. 'If work is given respect, the problem of unemployment can be solved to a great
extent.' Justify the statement.

C. Offer long answer to the following question.
1. What is lobour? Write down the major problems and solutions to the problems
of labour in Nepal.

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Unit Review

In this unit, we have learnt that:

• The major economic activities in Nepal are trade, industry, and agriculture; however,
these three sectors are inter-related.

• Although more than 70% population is engaged in agriculture in Nepal, agriculture
faces many problems such as traditional farming method, dominance of sustenance
farming, and lack of commercialization.

• Industry can be divided into two types—product-oriented and service-oriented.

• Effective transportation, communication, skilled manpower, capacity to invest, and
market are some of the basic requirements for the development of industry.

• Political instability, inability to compete with foreign products, and lack of energy are
some of the major problems facing Nepalese industrial sector.

• Buying and selling of goods is called trade.

• If the products are bought and sold within the country, it is called domestic or internal
trade.

• If the trade takes place between countries, it is called foreign or international trade.

• Nepal incurs a huge foreign trade deficit every year as we import more than we
export.

• As of 2011, 25% of the total population lived under the poverty line; programs such
as poverty alleviation have helped Nepal reduce poverty over the decade.

Test Your Knowledge

A. Offer very short answer to the following questions.
1. Nepal is an agrarian nation. Justify the statement in a sentence.
2. Write one major problem each faced by agriculture, industry and trade in Nepal.
3. What are the modes of foreign trade?
4. Why is there trade deficit in Nepal?
5. Write any two merits of trade diversification.
6. Write any two uses of economic plan.
7. What is the main reason behind poverty in Nepal?
8. Name any one of the best ways to reduce poverty.

9. What do you mean by development plan?

10. On an average, how many people leave the nation everyday for foreign
employment.

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B. Offer short answer to the following questions.
1. Agriculture is the source of raw materials for industries. Justify.
2. How does agriculture help to generate income and develop the country's
economy?
3. What is industry? How does industry help to create employment opportunities
in the country? Write in brief.
4. Poor transportation is a major problem of Nepalese agriculture. Justify.
5. Describe any four solution measures of our agricultural problems in your own
words.
6. What are the differences between cash crops and food crops? Name any two
cash crops and two food crops that are grown in Nepal and appropriate climate
to grow them.
7. 'Employment is the chief means to eliminate poverty.' Justify.
8. 'Nepal is a physically land-locked and economically India-locked country.'
Explain this statement.
9. Why is international trade important for Nepal? Write your points.
10. Despite many policies and programmes designed by the government to alleviate
poverty, the goal is not achieved yet. Why? Give reasons.
11. What do you mean by science and technology? What are its merits and demerits?
12. Why do you think agro-based industries are necessary in our country?
13. What are the advantages and disadvantages of taking a loan for a family or for a
country?

C. Offer long answers to the following questions.
1. Unequal distribution of land is the main problem blocking development of
agriculture. Why? Justify your answer with enough evidences.
2. What is industry? What is the present situation of industry in Nepal?
3. Give four suggestions for the improvement of industrial sector in Nepal.
4. What is a plan? What are the most essential points to be kept in mind while
making a plan? Write in detail.
5. Show the interrelationship between agriculture, industry and trade.
6. Describe different types of industries found in Nepal.
7. What is foreign trade? Write any four problems of foreign trade in Nepal.
Suggest any four measures to overcome those problems.

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9Unit

International
Relations, Peace
and Cooperation

In this unit, we will learn about:
• Current issues the world and Nepal are facing
• Impact of science and technology on human life
• Meaning and importance of foreign aid
• Nepal and donor countries
• Need and importance of the SAARC
• Mutual relationship among the SAARC nations
• Relationship between Nepal and the United Nations
• Causes and consequences of climate change and remedial measures
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Lesson International Relations,

9.1 Peace and Cooperation

Pre-reading Activity

Go through different articles and find out the bases of foreign policy of Nepal. Has
the policy been fruitful? Discuss in the class.

Reading

The world is like a huge family. Just like members in a family need help and support from
each other, the nations in the world also need cooperation. There are more than seven
billion people and some 250 countries in the world. Like an individual, a nation cannot
exist in isolation, whether it is rich or poor. A country needs help and cooperation from
other countries. As a result, one country develops relationship with other countries for
mutual benefits such as the exchange of goods and services. If we think of a country as an
individual or a member of a family, then a group of countries makes the neighbourhood.
They form associations for mutual help, cooperation and co-existence. In this sense, the
earth is a common home for all human beings and we live here with mutual understanding
and cooperation.

During the course of time, there may arise competition, struggle, or conflict between and
among individuals or countries. Such situation may lead to mistrust and misunderstanding,
even to quarrels and wars. A wise person sees the result and consequences of such
conflicts and work towards solving them. So do the countries of the world. For example,

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in Afghanistan, due to conflicts, a large number of people have lost their lives and others
are displaced. Such a situation cannot continue and people will ultimately have to
work for peace and cooperation. History is full of examples with countries which had
experienced conflicts and wars in the past. But, they have worked for peace and brought
prosperity in the society. Recently, Czechoslovakia has been divided into two countries –
Czech and Slovak – to protect the people from dangerous civil war. So, negotiation and
understanding are the means of solving disputes.

International disputes and misunderstanding

Every country has its own dignity, territorial integrity, sovereignty and national sentiment.
Because of these factors, sometimes conflicts arise over the issues of border, territory,
languages, and nationality. The conflicts may also arise over the ownership and use of
natural resources, political ideology, religion, trade and transit routes, etc. For example,
the clash between Israel and Palestine is mostly over territory. India and Pakistan fought
a war in the 1960s over the disputed territory of Kashmir. There is tension between South
and North Korea over the border, national security, and political ideology. At present,
terrorism has also become one of the contentious issues. The conflict in Iraq and
Afghanistan is an example of the issue of terrorism.

The dispute over sharing natural
resources can also lead to tense
international relationship. Historically,
the question of security has been one
of the main issues leading to conflicts
among nations. This also has led to
armaments. Powerful and wealthy
nations have amassed a large amount
of destructive weapons such as missiles
and nuclear warheads.

The developed nations (the USA, the
UK, Canada, Germany France, etc.)
and petroleum exporting countries
have produced or kept powerful weapons in the name of self-defense. These days,
every country spends a large amount of budget on their defence, whether the country
is developed or underdeveloped. Some of these weapons are so harmful that they can
destroy not only human beings but also some parts of the earth and environment. Modern
weapons are so powerful and precise that they can hit the target that is thousands of miles
away. We cannot assume the effect of such bombs or other weapons. The effect of the
atom bombs that were exploded in Hiroshima and Nagasaki of Japan in 1945 can be seen
even today. The bombs killed hundreds of thousands of human beings. So the weapons
are only a means of destruction of human civilization and human achievements. There
was free, direct or indirect weapon competition between former USSR and the USA from
1945 to 1989, which is called Cold War. To check production and storage of weapons, an
international agency has been established which is called the Comprehensive Nuclear-
Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). It is also unable to work freely and to stop the test and production
of weapons in any form.

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Glossary

territorial integrity : a principle under international law that a country should
not promote division of a nation
dignity
co-existence : prestige; self-respect
armament
: living together

: the process of equipping the army with modern weapons

In-class Activity

Have you seen people quarrelling on the road or public places or in houses? What
could be the likely causes of the quarrel? Draw a table in which you list causes of
personal, national and international conflict. Compare the causes of international
and personal conflict and suggest some ways to solve them.

Exercise

A. Offer very short answer to the following questions.

1. What do you mean by international relations?
2. How does international dispute take place?
3. What is terrorism?
4. How do you define Cold War?
5. What is CTBT?
B. Offer short answer to the following questions.

1. Why do nations form associations? Explain.
2. How do conflicts between nations arise? Write in a paragraph.
3. What are some of the common problems in the world today that lead to conflicts?

Write any three problems.
4. How are the countries of the world inter-connected with each other?
5. Write a story on an international conflict, its effects and the method of solution

applied to address the conflict.
6. Listen to the radio, watch television and/or read newspapers and collect the

names of some countries where there is conflict and war.

Self- Discovery: Project Work

You must have heard about a decade long civil war in Nepal between Maoist and
Government. Talk to one of the politicians of your locality and prepare a report
under the following titles:

i) Causes of the war ii) Negative impact iii) End of the civil war

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Lesson Effects of Technology

9.2 on Human Life

Pre-reading Activity

Imagine that there is a machine like a telephone with a box in the size of a person. If
you go inside the box, close the gate and dial the numbers of the machine and press
the 'enter' button, you will immediately reach the place for where you have dialled
the number. What type of life will there be in such a situation? How would it affect
the security and borders of countries, and residence of individuals?

Reading

It is about 7.45 in the evening. Khaisara
is talking with her husband on a mobile
phone sitting nearby the oven. She is
asking him about his daily life in the
Middle East and the lifestyle of the people
living there. After ten to twelve minutes’
talk, she ended the phone call and
continued her meal. She has a set of solar
electric panels which supply power to TV
and three low-power CFL bulbs. She has
experienced drastic change in her life in
the recent years. She had never imagined
about such a phone set in her childhood. She saw electric light when she visited the
district headquarters to get the citizenship certificate. These days, her son and daughter
are familiar with mobile phone, TV and the programmes on it. They have learnt a lot
from television. The daily activities of Khaisara are more or less same as in the past but
she has experienced a lot of new things and utilized new technologies in the present time.
Children have been gaining knowledge from TV and it has helped them in their study.
They have also seen the development of the world on TV. Now they know the importance
of education and study hard.

Like in Khaisara’s family, modern technology has brought changes in every aspect of our
life: education, health, entertainment, communication.
During the medieval period, Malla kings of Nepal used to send souvenirs to the king of
China in Beijing which took more than a year to reach there. During the Anglo-Nepal war,
it used to take more than six months for the messages from Kumaun and Garwal to reach
Kathmandu. In today’s world, we hardly believe such a story.

Due to the advancement of science and technology, the entire world has changed into a
global village and we are the members of such a village; an event in one part of the world

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easily reaches all parts of world within a minute. Similarly, we can travel at any time
and to any part of the country within 24 hours or can talk to anyone in any part of the
world within a minute. We can easily get knowledge about the world and understand the
situation, events and processes. Through media and communication, we can understand
the activities, their causes and consequences, and their impact on people in various parts
of the world.

We should be familiar with the world events and activities; to know about the world
and the world events is part of our general knowledge. Such general knowledge is very
useful in quiz contest, competition or any other formal examination for employment.
Furthermore, such knowledge enhances our intellect and personality. It helps us improve
our social prestige. There are different sources of information that we can depend on.
TV, radio, FM radio, computer, email, Internet, books, newspapers, magazines, websites,
etc are some sources of information. These means of information, made possible by the
modern technology, are widely used in the present day world.

Education

Technology has changed the way we learn in our classroom and at homes. In the developed
countries and a few schools in Nepal, children take one laptop computer which is lighter
than a book with more study materials. It can play sound and video that are more effective
for study. You can sit in exams in Nepal and take exams conducted by institutions located
in Britain and America. All you have to do is: sit in front of a computer. This is how
students aspiring to get admissions in foreign colleges take language and admission
tests. In many schools, teachers use computers to display images on the board, instead of
laboriously writing with the marker.

Health

With the advancement in medical science, people are living healthier lives than ever
before. New techniques for treating diseases, preventive measures such as vaccination
have revolutionized the field of medicine. Diseases once considered fatal can be treated
effectively these days. New technology such as radiation therapy has given hope and
longer life to cancer patients. Scientists are working to find treatment for fatal and incurable
diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer with stem-cell research. In the past, people used
to die of curable disease. These days children and other people are safe from different
diseases because of vaccination. The government of Nepal has been conducting National
Polio Day to eradicate the disease and on the same day vitamin A capsule is given to
children to prevent night blindness. Polio has been eradicated from Nepal as well as other
countries. It was a dangerous disease in the past and used to kill people or make them
disabled. Surgery equipment is so developed and modern that the kidney stone can be
taken out without surgery. A small needle is inserted in the body of the patient; it crushes
the stone through endoscopic method and the stone is removed. It is less dangerous, easy
and the patient does not suffer much pain.

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Communication

TV, radio, FM radio, mobile phone, and the internet have made communication easy and
effective. In remote areas of Nepal, solar panels are used to power TVs and people living
in those areas are connected to the rest of the world through email, the Internet, and
wireless telephones.

Agriculture and food production

Bio-engineering and genetic engineering have developed hybrid crops which resist
diseases and yield higher production within a short period of time. This has helped reduce
starvation and scarcity of food to increasing population across the world. In developed
countries, people also practise farming by controlling the climate so that crops and fruits
can be produced out of season. In Nepal, marginalized and low income people are getting
the benefit from such technology and it has improved their living standard.

In every walk of life, we can notice how modern technology has replaced the traditional
ones. The watermill, rotary quern have been displaced by diesel and electric machines.
Traditional kerosene lamp is displaced by the electric bulb and firewood oven by heater
and gas stove.

Glossary

vaccination : an act of giving a vaccine to prevent infection by a disease
a disease that causes people to slowly lose their memory
Alzheimer disease : and mental abilities as they grow old
a simple cell in the body that develops into other cells
stem-cell : biological or medical application of engineering principles
bio - engineering :

In-class Activity

Conduct a debate on 'Use of Mobile Phone in School'.

320 Oasis Social Studies Grade - 9

Exercise

A. Offer very short answer to the following questions.
1. What is technology?
2. What is a global village?
3. What do you mean by hybrid crops?
4. Write one negative effect of technology.
5. Write any one change in your life brought by the technology.

B. Offer short answer to the following questions.
1. Fifty years ago, postal service was the only means of communication but it is
rarely used for personal communication now. What are its reasons?
2. Make a list of electronic goods that you use.
3. Write brief notes on the changes technology has brought in education, health,
and communication.
4. Make a list of at least three technologies that have changed your own lifestyle.
Write briefly how each technology has affected the way of your life.
5. Collect the news articles related to modern science and technology from
newspapers and display them in the school wall magazine.
6. Government employment has become attractive job option for many people.
There may be government employees in your locality. Ask him or her about
acquiring general knowledge and how it helps one secure a job.

Self- Discovery: Project Work

In a group of 4 to 5 students, research to find out about one of the topics given
below related to modern technology. You may need to use the Internet, science
magazines, and also seek help from your teacher. After researching, write a brief
report about the technology you have chosen and present it to the class.
a) Nanotechnology
b) Stem-cell research
c) Cloning

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Lesson Diplomatic Relations

9.3 of Nepal with Other

Nations

Pre-reading Activity

There are many International Non-governmental Organizations (INGOs) such
as Action Aid, DANIDA, JICA, GTZ, etc. As a group of 4 to 5 students select one
such INGO as your project topic. Find information related to that organization and
write a brief report and present to the class. In your report, include the following
information:
• Brief introduction to the organization
• Areas that the organization provides assistance for
• Name of the projects previously conducted
• Projects that are currently being carried out

Reading

Like a family in the neighbourhood, a country should have friendly relation with other
countries for the purpose of peace, mutual cooperation, trade, commerce, and exchange of
cultures. Such relationships might be bilateral or among more than two countries. Nepal
has also maintained a good relationship with many countries of the world. At present,
Nepal has diplomatic relationship with 138 countries. Nepal also has 27 embassies, one
permanent mission in New York, and 4 consulates established in other countries. Similarly,
29 countries have opened embassies in Nepal. The main purpose of these embassies

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and consulates is to promote bilateral relationship with the host country. Countries also
exchange high level visits and delegation to strengthens bilateral relations. Nations work
in various areas for mutual benefits. For a country like Nepal, her relations with other
countries can also be explored for securing assistance in our development efforts.

Foreign aid and donors

Being an under-developed country, Nepal receives assistance for development efforts. In
Nepal, there is need for investment in many areas of importance such as education, health,
technology, and infrastructure development. Since managing funds and technology
internally is not viable, Nepal needs foreign aid and assistance. Other countries help Nepal
in her development. The countries that provide financial and other forms of assistance to
Nepal are called donor countries.

Most developed countries that have diplomatic relations with Nepal provide assistance.
Some major donor countries for Nepal are Japan, the United Kingdom, Germany, India,
the United States, Canada, and Norway. Besides, international organizations and agencies
such as the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and International Monetary Fund
also provide aid to Nepal. Generally, the donor countries offer assistance in coordination
with others to identify areas of needs. Donor countries hold meetings to identify areas
of assistance. Currently, Nepal Development Forum (NDF) is one such association. It
started in 1976 AD with the name “Nepal Aid Group Meetings.” In such meetings, Nepali
representatives present projects and programs that need funding.

The bases of the foreign policy of Nepal after the advent of democracy in 2007 B.S.

• Non-alignment
• Panchasheela
• Determined to UN's charter
• Disarmament
• Security to rights of landlocked countries
• International law, norms and values

Nepal and the United Kingdom

Establishment of bilateral relation - 1816 AD
Areas of Help

• Narayangad-Butwal, Dharan-Dhankuta Road
section

• Agriculture Research Centre, Pakhribas (Dhankuta)
and Lumle (Kaski)

• Budhanilkantha School, Kathmandu
• British Council
• Enrollment of youths in British Army

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Nepal and India

Establishment of bilateral relation - June 13, 1947

Areas of help

• B.P. Koirala Institute of Health
Sciences, Dharan

• National Trauma Centre and
Bir Hospital, Kathmandu

• Some Section of the East-West
Highway

• Trishuli and Devighat Hydroelectrcity
Centre, Nuwakot

• Manmohan Memorial Polytechnic,
Morang

• Mahendranagar-Tanakpur link road

• Farbishganj- Biratnagar Railway link

• Distribution of ambulances to different hospitals
and organizations

• Distribution of buses to schools

• Scholarship to students for higher studies in India

Nepal and China

Establishment of bilateral relation - August 1, 1955

Areas of help

• Prithivi Highway, Araniko highway,
Kathmandu ring road and other highways

• Tripureshwor - Suryabinayak trolley bus
service

• Sunkoshi hydroelectricity project
• Hetauda Garment Industry, Bhrikuti Paper

Industry, Bhaktapur Brick Industry,
Harishiddhi Brick and Tiles Industry, Bansbari
Leather Shoe Industry
• Civil Hospital, B.P. Koirala Cancer Hospital
• Birendra International Convention Centre
(BICC)
• Scholarship to students for higher studies in
China

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Nepal and the World Bank

Membership taken by Nepal - September 6, 1961
Projects completed under the aid of World Bank

• Projects related to different highways,
irrigation, drinking water and sewage
management

• Nepal Industrial Development Corporation

• Kulekhani Hydroelectricity Project

• Agriculture human resource (manpower)
development

• School reconstruction in earthquake affected
areas

• Basic and primary education

Nepal and Asian Development Bank

Membership taken by Nepal - 1966 A.D.
Areas of aid from Asian Development Bank

• Reform in auditing of public sector

• Community Drinking Water and Sanitation
Project

• Increment in the capacity in the use of
drinking water of Kathmandu Valley

• Teaching training programme

• Organizational aid of electricity board

Beside these, other nations like the USA, Japan, etc. and organizations like European
Union, International Monetary Fund, Nepal Development Helping Group, OPEC, World
Trade Organization, SAFTA, BIMSTEC, etc. have also contributed a lot to different areas
of development.

Glossary

bilateral : related to two parties
identify : recognize
funding : supply of resources

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In-class Activity Areas of help

Fill in the given table.

Names of the countries and
organizations that have helped Nepal

Exercise

A. Offer very short answer to the following questions.
1. What do you mean by foreign aid?
2. Who are donors?
3. Write any two major donor countries for Nepal.
4. How do donor nations provide aid?
5. What are the bases of Nepal's foreign policy?

B. Offer short answer to the following questions.
1. Why does a country need to have friendly relations with other countries?
2. What type of relation is called diplomatic relation? What is its importance?
3. Differentiate between bilateral and multilateral assistance with examples.
4. In the map of the world, locate the countries that have been aiding Nepal.
5. Does Nepal assist other countries in their efforts? For what purpose do you
think Nepal helps other countries?
6. Write short notes on the bilateral relation between
i. Nepal and the UK
ii. Nepal and India
iii. Nepal and China
iv. Nepal and World Bank
v. Nepal and ADB

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Lesson Cooperation among
the SAARC Member
9.4
Countries

Pre-reading Activity

Mock SAARC Summit: With the help your teacher, organize a Mock SAARC Summit,
in which eight students perform as the head of the state or the government. Each head
of the state or government then gives a brief speech, identifying areas of development
and cooperation. Since it is going to be a “mock” summit, try presenting yourselves
as accurately as possible. You may even dress up to resemble the head of the state
you are impersonating.

Reading

South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was established in 1985.
SAARC works for economic, technological, social, and cultural development of the
region. Initially, there were seven member nations. With the inclusion of Afghanistan
in 2005, it has eight members now. These countries have more or less similar economic
status, cultural diversity and geography (except the Maldives), interest and attitudes of
people and the level of development. Regional integrity, economic cooperation, peaceful
co-existence, cultural exchange, unified development effort are the major objectives of the
SAARC.

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Structure

To perform its functions in different levels it has four tier structure. They are:

• General meeting of the heads of state or the government, known as the SAARC
Summit

• Council of Ministers (includes foreign ministers from member countries)
• Standing Committee (foreign secretaries of member countries)
• Technical Committee (representatives from member countries who are expert in

related subjects)

A SAARC Secretariat was established on 16 January 1987 in Kathmandu, Nepal. The
Secretariat runs its daily administration and coordinates among the member countries.
To head the Secretariat, a Secretary General is appointed from member countries in
alphabetical order for a period of three years. Other than the Secretary General, eight
directors are appointed, one from each country in the secretariat.

Financial management

Every member country contributes to the budget of SAARC. The budget is used for the
internal management, regular administration, and development activities in the member
countries. Similarly, extra budget is managed from other sources. For example, SAARC
Japan Special Fund, South Asian Development Fund (SADF), United Nations Conference
on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Economic and Social Commission for Asia and
Pacific (ESCAP), United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF), etc. have assisted in the
development activities of the SAARC.

Integrated Programme of action

Under the Integrated Programme of Action, 12 different development fields are selected.
They are as follows:

• Agriculture
• Communication
• Rural Development
• Women Development
• Education, Culture and Sports
• Environment and Meteorology
• Weapons Trafficking and Prevention
• Prevention of Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse
• Transport
• Health, Population, Child Care and Tourism
• Science and Technology

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Public relations

In this sector, different programmes are included which are related to people and their
activities. They are SAARC Audio Visual Exchange, SAARC Document Centre, Student
Scholarship Programmes, Promotion of Tourism, Youth Volunteering Programme, South
Asia Fairs, etc.

meteorology Glossary

: a science that deals with the atmosphere and with weather

In-class Activity

Draw an outline map of each SAARC member country.

Exercise

A. Offer very short answer to the following questions.
1. What is SAARC?
2. When was the SAARC established?
3. When did Afghanistan get the membership of the SAARC?
4. What is SAARC secretariat?
5. Name the present secretary general of the SAARC.

B. Offer short answer to the following questions.
1. Write three major objectives of the SAARC.
2. What are some of the similarities among the SAARC nations that have brought
these nations together?
3. How does the SAARC manage its budget for administration and development
work?
4. What are the major areas of development identified by the SAARC under
Integrated Action Plan? Explain the importance of one of these areas.
5. Draw a logo of the SAARC to reflect its objectives.

Self- Discovery: Project Work

The 19th SAARC Summit which was scheduled to be held in Islamabad, Pakistan
on 15-19 November 2016 was originally postponed and then cancelled. Now, 20th
SAARC Summit is scheduled in Sri Lanka in 2019. What could be the reasons
behind cancelling the 19th SAARC Summit? Does it raise the questions against
the significance of the organizations? Discuss in the class.

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Lesson

9.5 The UNO and Nepal

Pre-reading Activity

Conflicts, hostilities and alliances are still existing among different countries in the
world. What sorts of strategy should the UN adopt to minimize such conditions and
establish peace and security in the world? Discuss in the class.

Reading

UNO, the largest non-government organization in
the world, was established on October 24, 1945. It was
established with a view to promote international peace,
co-operation and understanding. There are altogether 193
member nations of the UNO.

Nepal's foreign policy is also based on the UN's charter.
Nepal has been actively participating in different activities
of the UNO since it got its membership on December 14,
1955. Nepal showed its first participation in UN by sending
five observers in the UN military observation group in Lebanon. Nepal has been sending
its peace keeping force to the UN peace keeping mission since the first UNIFIL mission
to Lebanon in 1978. Nepal Army, Nepal Police and the Armed Police Force (APF) have
been working in Burundi, Sudan, Chad, Liberia, Haiti and other nations as a part of peace
keeping force. Apart from peace keeping soldiers, there are many professionals, social
and economic experts working in UN and its agencies. Nepal is the seventh largest peace
keeping contributor to the United Nations.

In 1966, Nepal had played an important role in passing special apartheid report. Nepal
became the temporary member of the Security Council in 1969-70 and 1988-89. During its
first membership of the Security Council it had played an important role in passing report
of ban on disarmament and nuclear weapons. With this act Nepal's major General Pawan
Jung Thapa had been appointed as the chief of UNDOF (UN Disengagement Observer
Force).

Nepal has shown her due concern in the steps taken by the UN in solving the problem of
climate change and other contemporary challenges. Nepal has also become the head of
LDCs (Least Developed Countries). It has participated in all the conferences on LDCs and
has raised its voice frequently in the UN sessions.

The role of the UN is highly appreciable in the development of Nepal. It has played an

330 Oasis Social Studies Grade - 9

important role in the protection and promotion of women's empowerment, child welfare
and human rights. The UN sent its special political mission (UNMIN) in support of the
peace process in Nepal. The UNMIN helped Nepal in monitoring and management of
arms and armed personnel of the Nepal Army and the Maoist Army. It also provided
technical assistance to the election commission in conducting the first Constituent
Assembly Election in a free and fair atmosphere.

Nepal's contribution to the establishment of world/international peace

• In 1958, Nepal got an opportunity to work as the vice-president of the UN General
Assembly.

• In 1966, Nepal played an important role while preparing report of special committee
on apartheid.

• In 1968, Nepal got an opportunity to work as a temporary member of the Security
Council.

• Nepal is a signatory nation against the test of nuclear weapons.
• Nepal has proved itself a peace lover nation by calling for world disarmament

conference.
• Nepal contributed to the establishment of international peace by participating in the United

Nations Special Fund Management Council and the South African Committee to study
different ideologies. These have made the role of Nepal in establishing peace clearer.
• Nepal raised a strong voice for just demand for transit right and right for oceanic route
in the United Nations Organization. Such activity has shown Nepal's contribution at
the international level.

Glossary

apartheid : racial segregation or former social system in South Africa in
which black people were deprived of political and economic
rights

disarmament : to give up weapons, demilitarize

In-class Activity

Present in a table the name and contribution of any two of the UN specialized
agencies that support in economic development of Nepal.

Oasis Social Studies Grade - 9 331

Exercise

A. Offer very short answer to the following questions.
1. Introduce peace keeping force.

2. What is the UNO?

3. When did Nepal get the membership of the UNO?

4. What is UNMIN?

5. How many times has Nepal acted as the temporary member of the Security
Council?

B. Offer short answer to the following questions.

1. Write a paragraph on the necessity of peace keeping force.

2. Point out the roles of Nepal in meeting the objectives of the UNO.

3. What has to be done to make Nepal's role more effective in UN's activities ? Explain.

4. How has the UN contributed to Nepal in different activities ? List out those activities.

5. Write down the role of Nepal in maintaining international peace.

6. Discuss the reasons behind international conflict.

7. Make a news item on the role of Nepalese peace keeping force.

8. Complete the given table.

S.N. Nepal's activities Impact on the international community
1.
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

Self- Discovery: Project Work

UNO is the largest international organizations that is committed to maintaining
international peace and security, developing cordial relations among nations and
solving problems related to economic, social and humanitarian nature. Is there
any UN activity going in your community? If yes, mention the task along with its
positive impact in the community.

332 Oasis Social Studies Grade - 9

Lesson

9.6 Diplomatic Mission

Pre-reading Activity

There might be someone in your community who has the experience of working in
diplomatic mission. Based on his/her talks, prepare a report and discuss in the class.

Reading

All the countries of the world send diplomats to other countries in order to extend
diplomatic relationship among them. The offices are established in one another's countries
with which diplomatic relationship has been established. Such offices are called embassies
or consuls. They are also known as diplomatic missions.

Nepal has established 31 embassies and 57 consulates out of 138 nations with which she
has diplomatic relationship. Similarly, 26 foreign countries have established embassies
in Nepal. There are 46 consulates and one other representation in Nepal. Trade relations
between countries, people's visit, power balance, etc. influence the establishment of
embassies. Therefore, embassies have not been established in all the countries having
diplomatic relations. In several countries consuls have been established. Similarly, the
embassy established in one country is given responsibility to look after even some
neighbouring countries.

In the embassy there are an ambassador and other office bearers of the concerned country.
The head of the state appoints Nepalese ambassadors at the recommendation of the
council of ministers. A country communicates with other foreign countries through the
concerned embassies. The embassy plays an important role in conducting the visit of
the head of the state, the head of the government and high level dignitaries in foreign
countries. The embassy issues visa or permit to a person who would like to visit another
country.

The diplomatic missions in various countries remain active in their citizen's security,
managing their grievances and solutions to problems. The embassy extends necessary
co-operation to those who would like to return to their native countries. The role of the
diplomatic mission is very important in organizing trade fairs, ceremonies, festivals and
social and cultural exchange programmes in various countries. The diplomatic missions
represent the country in the treaties between two countries. It is the responsibility of
the embassy or diplomatic mission to present the authorized views from the side of the
concerned country if there is any grievance or understanding from another country about
the issue of a country or a citizen. Therefore, the diplomatic mission should represent the
country in another country following diplomatic norms, values and protocol, otherwise
it may adversely affect self-respect and sovereignty of another country. As a result, the
relation between two countries may be damaged.

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Nepalese embassies in foreign countries
31 countries including Sri Lanka, China, Japan, Malaysia, Myanmar, Egypt, Qatar,
Brazil, Canada

Nepalese consuls in foreign countries
Hongkong, Lhasa (China), Kolkata (India), New York ( the USA)

Residential embassies in Nepal

26 nations including Australia, Bangladesh, China, Denmark, France, Germany, India,
Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom, Norway, Malaysia, the United States of America

Glossary

ambassador : the highest ranking person who represents his/her government to
other nation

dignitaries : persons who have a high rank or an important position

visa : an official stamp on a passport that lets someone enter another
nation

protocol : a system of rules explaining the correct conduct

In-class Activity

Write down the contributions made by diplomatic missions in Nepal in different
areas of development.

Exercise

A. Offer very short answer to the following questions.
1. Who are diplomats?
2. What is an embassy?
3. How many countries have established embassies in Nepal till date?
4. Write one significance of diplomatic mission.

B. Offer short answer to the following questions.
1. What is diplomatic mission ? Explain.
2. Prepare a leaflet on Nepal's international relationship.
3. List out the major tasks of an ambassador.

4. 'The role of diplomatic mission is crucial in determining the relation of one
country with another'. Justify the statement.

5. Make a list of Nepalese embassies in foreign countries.

334 Oasis Social Studies Grade - 9

Lesson Climate Change: Burning

9.7 Issues of the World

Pre-reading Activity

Take five minutes and brainstorm on 'The Global Burning Issues'. Write as many
issues as you can. Read out the list to the class.

Reading

There are different common problems in the
world—poverty, hunger, climate change,
terrorism, social insecurity and conflict.
Among them, climate has become one of the
most challenging issues. It is because it affects
not only humans but also plants and animals
as well. The climate of the world is changing
with the passage of time. Generally, the change
in temperature occurs due to rainfall, change Cabinet meeting of GoN at Kalapathar
in the direction of wind, and average weather
of a place. At present, the effects of climate change have been seen all over the world.
Droughts, flood, frequent storms and hurricanes are the effects of climate change. Climate
change is also connected with greenhouse effect.

The climate is changing, largely due to the

increase in human produced greenhouse

gases. Greenhouse gases absorb heat from the

sun in the atmosphere and reduce the amount

of heat escaping into space. This extra heat

has been found to be the primary cause of the

changes in the climate system. These changes

include increases in global average air and

ocean temperature, widespread melting of

snow and ice and rising global sea levels. The underwater cabinet meeting held in
The extra heat in the climate system has other the Maldives
impacts, such as affecting atmospheric and

ocean circulation, which influences rainfall and wind patterns.

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Global warming and climate change

The terms ‘global warming’ and ‘climate change’ are often used interchangeably, but
there is a difference. Global warming is the gradual increase of the Earth’s average surface
temperature due to greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. On the other hand, climate
change is a broader term. It refers to long-term changes in climate, including average
temperature and rainfall.

Greenhouse gases

There are different gases in the atmosphere that play a vital role in solar radiation and
temperature of the earth. The chemical properties of greenhouse gases is that they strongly
absorb and re-radiate the sun’s warmth in the atmosphere. This process maintains the
earth’s normal temperature. Water vapour, carbon dioxide, oxygen, nitrogen, dust
particles are the composition of atmosphere. If any one of them exceeds or is below the
normal level, the temperature of the earth alters.

In modern times, human activities have resulted in the increase of certain types of gases.
The main greenhouse gases generated by human activity are carbon dioxide, methane
and nitrous oxide. There are also manufactured gases such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
which affect the ozone layer. Since industrialization, carbon dioxide levels have risen
sharply to about 386 ppm. Even in these amounts, the extra carbon dioxide is largely
responsible for the increase in global temperatures of about 0.7°C. Another serious impact
of increase in carbon dioxide is ocean acidification. Around a quarter of human-produced
carbon dioxide is absorbed by the oceans. As the carbon dioxide dissolves in sea water
it forms a weak carbonic acid, making the ocean more acidic. There are early indications
that some marine organisms are already being affected by ocean acidification.

Human contribution to greenhouse effect

• burning fossil fuels, such as coal, oil or gas

• using energy generated by burning fossil fuels

• some aspects of farming, such as raising cattle and sheep, using fertilizers and
growing some crops

• clearing land, including logging

• the breakdown of food and plant wastes and sewerage

• some industrial processes, such as making cement and aluminium

Effects of climate change

Change in life cycle of plant and animal: Climate variability and change affects birds
and animals in a number of ways: birds lay eggs earlier in the year than usual, plants
bloom earlier and mammals come out of hibernation sooner. Distribution of animals is
also affected; many species are moving closer to the poles as a response to the rise in
global temperatures. Climate change also affects birds and animals in their pattern of
migration, habitat and reproduction.

Rising temperatures: Due to global warming, the temperature of world has been rising
since Industrial Revolution and specially from 1900. It is measured 0.70 Celsius more than
the average temperature of the world hundred years ago.

336 Oasis Social Studies Grade - 9

Changing sea levels and temperatures: The rise in temperature has affected the melting
of ice which increases the sea level. It is said that the rising sea level could inundate
some small, low-lying island states and put millions of people living in low-lying areas at
greater risk of flooding.

Extreme weather: These days, the world is suffering from different weather problems
like floods, droughts, tropical storms, etc. In Nepal, we have been experiencing change
in precipitation pattern.

Food and water: As temperatures increase and rainfall patterns change, crop yields
are likely to drop significantly in different parts of the world. Availability of water for
irrigation and drinking will be less predictable because rain will be more variable. It is
also possible that salt from the rising seas may contaminate underground fresh water
supplies in coastal areas. Droughts are likely to be more frequent. It is assumed that up to
three billion people could suffer due to increased water shortage by 2080.

Disease: Different communicable diseases will appear from the changing climate and
rising temperature. Mosquitoes can live at higher altitude and bring different diseases.

Rainforests: Most of the rainforest may disappear due to the irregularity of rainfall.

What can we do ?

To reduce climate change and greenhouse effect, we can do the following things:

• Be active in climate related activities.
• Stop or reduce damage to nature.
• If possible, walk on foot or use non-smoky vehicles.
• Use solar energy.
• Follow the principle of "reuse, reduce and recycle".
• Shop locally to stop import which needs energy for transportation.
• Try to be eco-friendly.
• Create awareness in the society.
• Plant trees in the barren land.

Glossary

greenhouse gas : gaseous compound in the atmosphere that leads to global
warming
solar radiation :
energy transmitted in the form of rays
sewerage :
the removal and disposal of sewage

In-class Activity

Imagine that you are a member of “Save the Earth” organization. You want to raise
people’s awareness about climate change and global warming. Design appropriate
promotional materials such as posters, placards, banners, and other materials for
that purpose.

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Exercise

A. Offer very short answer to the following questions.

1. State any two common problems of the world.

2. What is the main cause of climate change?

3. Differentiate between global warming and climate change.

4. What do you mean by greenhouse gases?

5. What are CFCs?
B. Offer short answer to the following questions.

1. What is meant by climate change? How is it changing?
2. What are the factors that contribute to climate change?
3. The Maldives has organized a meeting of the Council of Ministers under the sea

and Nepal organized the same type of meeting at Kalapatthar in Solukhumbu
district near Mt. Everest. What was their objective?

4. How is Nepal affected by climate change?

5. How could climate change be reduced? Explain.

6. What will be the situation of coastal countries like the Maldives and the
mountainous counties like Nepal if the pace of climate change remains constant
or accelerates in the near future?

7. What are the effects of climate change? Explain.

Unit Review

In this unit, we have learnt that:

• Countries develop relationship with each other for mutual benefits such as exchange
of goods, services, and technologies;

• International conflicts and misunderstanding should be solved through dialogues
and mediation;

• Technology has changed the world making communication easier; information can
spread across the world rapidly and simultaneously;

• Technology has also impacted human life, including education, health, communication,
etc;

• One country establishes diplomatic relationship with another to strengthen friendly
relations and cooperation;

• Nepal has diplomatic relations with 138 countries;
• Established in 1985, South Asian Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is the association of

eight countries in the region;
• SAARC Secretariet was established in Kathmandu in 1987;
• Climate change is one of the most challenging issues facing humanity now.

338 Oasis Social Studies Grade - 9

Test Your Knowledge

A. Offer very short answer to the following questions.
1. What is international peace and cooperation?
2. Give any two examples of international disputes.
3. Write any two effects of technology on human life.
4. Give an example of traditional technology being replaced by the modern ones.
5. Name any two sectors where ADB is assisting Nepal.
6. How is the budget of the SAARC used?
7. When was the SAARC secretariat established?
8. When was the UNO established?
9. What is the number of total member nations of the UNO?
10. Name any two nations where Nepalese peace keeping forces have been working.
11. What are the main greenhouse gases generated by human activity?

12. What is ocean acidification?

B. Offer short answer to the following questions.
1. What is global warming? Write its impact on environment.
2. What are the sectors of mutual cooperation of the SAARC nations? Write in
brief.
3. How is the SAARC trying to raise the living standard of the people in the SAARC
region?
4. Write in brief how Nepal is benefitted from the SAARC.
5. Mention the role played by Germany in the development of our country.
6. What do you mean by climate change? State any three of the serious effects of
climate change.
7. How is diplomatic relation established? What kind of support does any country
get from this type of relationship?
8. What do you think are the causes of international conflicts? Write in four points.
9. Prepare a set of four model questions to ask the Secretary General of the SAARC
regarding the activities of the SAARC.

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10. What is the need and importance of foreign assistance for developing countries
like ours?

11. You must have heard about the SAARC Summit held in Kathmandu in 2014.
Prepare a report about the process of the summit on the basis of the information
you heard under the appropriate subheadings.

12. Define global warming. Write about its causes and control measures.
13. What different kinds of technologies can be appropriate for Nepal in energy,

transport, agriculture, etc.? Explain in detail.

- Best of Luck -

340 Oasis Social Studies Grade - 9