Approved by the Government of Nepal, Ministry of Education, Curriculum Development
Centre (CDC), Sanothimi, Bhaktapur as an additional learning material for Grade 7.
Bijay Kumar Basnet
Samjhana Dhakal
Hom Laxmi Gurung
Saroj Lamichhane
Geeta Bhattarai
Teachers Publication
Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors : Bijay Kumar Basnet
Samjhana Dhakal
Hom Laxmi Gurung
Saroj Lamichhane
Geeta Bhattarai
Publisher : Teachers Publication Pvt. Ltd.
Kathmandu, Nepal
© Copyright : The Publisher
First Edition : BS 2074 (2017 AD) All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
copied, transmitted or in any electronic form without
Revised : BS 2075 (2018 AD) the permission of the publisher or copyright holder.
Revised : BS 2076 (2019 AD)
Revised : BS 2077 (2020 AD)
Design & Art : PSDesign # 9849055680
Printed in Nepal
Preface
Realizing the urgent need of a standard, reliable and goal-oriented textbooks carefully well-graded
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education series has been written in line with the recently revised
curriculum of the Curriculum Development Centre (CDC), Ministry of Education, Government of Nepal.
The students at this level should be encouraged to develop creative and critical thinking around the themes
and come up with problem-solving aptitude also. Our goal has been to promote students' interest in this
discipline and stimulate them to accept Social Studies as a viable subject in their career.
The series possesses the following salient features to facilitate easy and creative learning:
• Learning Outcomes in terms of competencies have been listed to familiarise the students with the basic
learning that they are expected to achieve through the chapter materials.
• Facts to Understand may arouse interest in students to explore more to learn the relevant facts.
• Contents are orderly, simplified, insightful, comprehensive and interesting and are from simple to
complex in order to facilitate easy understanding.
• Lessons are so structured in such a way to enable progressive and constructive learning with a logical
development of the content. Moreover, sufficient elaboration of the lesson has been done.
• Special attention has been paid to the socio-cultural aspect of Nepal. Moreover, they are thoroughly
inclusive.
• Utmost care has been taken to understand the level of understanding and interests of the children.
• A simple and lucid language has been used.
• Latest information has been added to make students get appropriately updated.
• Key Words have been incorporated to make the students understand the difficult words.
• Relevant data and pictures have been added to facilitate creative learning, interpretation skill, thinking
and reasoning skill.
• Activities have been developed and designed to sharpen their creativity and critical thinking.
• Ample exercises for continuous and comprehensive assessment to meet the objectives set by the
curriculum.
• Community Work has been incorporated so as to make the knowledge and skill of the students apply to
the community and students can learn from the community as well.
• Review Questions have been developed as follow-up activities at the end of every unit in order to
consolidate and reinforce children’s learning.
• Every effort has been made to make designing and printing attractive.
We would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to the entire team of the Teachers Publication who trusted
us to take up this project and encouraged us relentlessly to bring the series out in this shape.
We genuinely express our deepest sense of gratitude to all who have cordially supported and encouraged us
directly or indirectly during the course of preparation of the series.
Our special thanks go to Perspective Designers and team for their unrelenting and meticulous designing act.
We have left no stone unturned to make this series foolproof from any unwarranted mistakes. Still some
errors may have crept in, for which we look up to the readers to impart us constructive suggestions and
critical feedback so that they may be rectified in the future editions.
Last but not the least, we are highly indebted to all the founders, directors, principals, administrators, vice
principals, in-charges, teachers and all our well-wishers across the country for their cheerful encouragement,
affection and on-going support.
Happy Reading!
The Authors
Contents
Unit Topics Pg. No.
1 WE AND OUR SOCIETY
7
Lesson 1.1 Origin of Society and Its Development 8
Lesson 1.2 Socialization 13
Lesson 1.3 District Co-ordination Committee, Its Composition and Functions 17
Lesson 1.4 Development Activities of the District 21
Lesson 1.5 Federalism and Provinces 25
Lesson 1.6 Infrastructure of Development: Transportation 33
Lesson 1.7 Infrastructure of Development: Communication 38
2 OUR SOCIAL VALUES AND NORMS
41
Lesson 2.1 Religious Customs of Our Society 42
Lesson 2.2 Social Customs of Our Society 46
Lesson 2.3 Nation and Nationality 48
Lesson 2.4 Gehendra Shumsher: The First Nepali Scientist 52
Lesson 2.5 Some Historical Personalities of Our Country 55
Lesson 2.6 Our Social Behaviours, Cultures and Traditions 60
Lesson 2.7 Our Folk Culture 63
Review Questions 67
3 SOCIAL PROBLEMS AND THEIR SOLUTIONS
68
Lesson 3.1 Social Problems and Evils 69
Lesson 3.2 Causes and Solutions of Social Problems and Evils 73
Lesson 3.3 Role of Schools and National Organization in Solving Social Problem 77
Lesson 3.4 Conflict and Its Management 80
Lesson 3.5 Concept of Peace 83
Review Questions 85
4 CIVIC CONSCIOUSNESS
86
Lesson 4.1 Fundamental Elements of a State 87
Lesson 4.2 Fundamental Rights 90
Lesson 4.3 Child Rights 95
Lesson 4.4 Efforts to Protect Child Rights 98
Lesson 4.5 Democratic Culture 101
Lesson 4.6 Equal Behaviour 104
Lesson 4.7 Social Norms and Values 106
Review Questions 109
5 OUR EARTH
110
Lesson 5.1 An Introduction to Latitude and Longitude 111
Lesson 5.2 Topography of the Earth and Its Changes 114
Lesson 5.3 Nepal: Physical Features and Socio-Economic Condition 119
Lesson 5.4 Map Work 123
Lesson 5.5 Climate Change and Its Effects 126
Lesson 5.6 Disaster Management 130
Lesson 5.7 Europe: Its Geography and Socio-economic Life 133
Lesson 5.8 Australia: Its Geography and Socio-economic Life 137
Review Questions 142
6 OUR PAST
143
Lesson 6.1 An Introduction of Medieval Nepal 144
Lesson 6.2 Political Condition of Medieval Nepal 147
Lesson 6.3 The Socio-economic Condition of Medieval Nepal 149
Lesson 6.4 Art and culture of Medieval Nepal 153
Lesson 6.5 The Hwang-Ho Valley Civilization 155
Lesson 6.6 Mesopotamian Civilization 158
Review Questions 162
7 OUR ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES
163
Lesson 7.1 Natural Resources of Nepal and Their Uses 164
Lesson 7.2 Industrial Activities 169
Lesson 7.3 Interrelationship between Agriculture and Industry 173
Lesson 7.4 Trade Activities 177
Review Questions 180
8 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATIONS
181
Lesson 8.1 SAARC and Its Activities 182
Lesson 8.2 Role of Nepal in SAARC 188
Lesson 8.3 Landlocked Countries: Their Problems and Solutions 191
Lesson 8.4 Contemporary Activities of the world 195
Review Questions 199
9 POPULATION EDUCATION AND DEMOGRAPHIC STATUS
200
Lesson 9.1 Introduction to Population Education 201
Lesson 9.2 Scopes of Population Education and Family Life Education 204
Lesson 9.3 Sources of Population Data 208
Lesson 9.4 Population Change and Factors Affecting It 211
Lesson 9.5 The Trend of Population Growth Rate in Nepal 216
Lesson 9.6 Population Composition by Language, Caste and Occupation 219
Lesson 9.7 Population Distribution of Nepal 222
Review Questions 225
10 POPULATION GROWTH AND MANAGEMENT
226
Lesson 10.1 Status of Population Growth in Nepal 227
Lesson 10.2 Causes and Consequences of Rapid Population Growth 230
Lesson 10.3 Population Management and Quality life 234
Lesson 10.4 Measures of Population Management 238
Lesson 10.5 Measures of Quality Life 242
Lesson 10.6 Role of National Agencies Involved in Population Management 245
Review Questions 248
Unit
1 WE AND OUR SOCIETY
Learning Outcomes of the Unit
UNIT CONTENTS The competencies of the social studies curriculum in
1.1 Origin of Society and Its the unit are to enable students to:
Development 8 say about society and its evolution
1.2 Socialization 13 describe the development of society from ancient to
1.3 District Co-ordination scientific age
Committee, Its Composition become familiar with socialization and its process
and Functions 17 introduce the District Coordination Committee and tell
1.4 Development Activities of the about its formation
District 21 list out the function of DCC and find out the condition
1.5 Federalism and Provinces 25 of development activities in the district
1.6 Infrastructure of Development: express their views on transportation and
Transportation 33 communication as infractures of development
1.7 Infrastructure of Development: condition
Communication 38
7 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Lesson Origin of Society and Its Development
1.1
Between 1960 and 2010 AD, the world population rose
FACTS from 3 billion to 6.8 billion. In other words there has been
to Understand more growth in population in the last fifty years than the
previous 2 million years that humans have existed.
Evolution of Society
The relation between human and society is very close. Society does not exist
independently without individuals. Man needs society for his existence and
survival. Man is biologically and psychologically equipped to live in groups, in
society. Thus, man is a social animal. The ultimate goal of society is to promote
good and happy life for its individual. It is in the society that an individuals
surrounded and encompassed by culture as a societal force. The relation between
two depended upon one fact that the individual and the society are mutually
dependent, one exists with the help of the others. Long ago, Aristotle expressed
‘Man is essentially a social animal by nature’. He cannot live without a society.
If he does so, he is either a beast or God. Man has to live in society for his
existences and welfare. Man can never develop his personality, language, culture
and "inner deep" by living outside the society. Hence, there exists a great deal
of close relationships between man and society. Both are closely inter-related,
interconnected and inter-dependent.
In the beginning, human society was very simple. People used to live in the forest
in small groups and some alone as well. They used to depend on animals, fruits,
roots for food. They lived in caves or under the trees like animals. Gradually,
they started rearing animals and cultivating crops. They also made shelter which
became their permanent place to stay. In this way they improved their living
standard. They also helped each other and lived in large groups. Now, the life has
become easier and more comfortable. Thus, it is how society got originated.
Society was developed through different
stages. The stages are briefly described below:
A. Stone Age
In this age people used to live a primitive
life by hunting animals and gathering food.
They used to live in caves and under the tree.
Life was very difficult and full of trouble as it
was the first stage.
stone age
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 8
1. Animal Rearing Age
In this age people learnt to rear animals for various purposes. They lived
like nomad in this stage, as well, in forests. They didn’t have a permanent place
to stay.
rearing animals
2. Agricultural Age
People started cultivating different crops and vegetables in this age. They
also learnt to make shelter for permanent use and lived in groups co-operating
each other. They focused on agriculture and divided the work among them. Female
used to look after the children and did household work and males used to go to
field and work.
age of agriculture
9 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
3. Industrial Age
The next stage was industrial
age which made people discover metal
to make tools that could be used for
agriculture. People also learnt to
weave clothes. Cottage industries
were established. People started
trade by selling the production in
the market. Society became more
advanced.
industry
4. Scientific Age
It is the current and the most advanced stage of society. Many discoveries and
inventions were made. There came facilities of communication, transportation,
etc. Radio, television, internet, fax, aeroplane, vehicles, rockets, satellites, etc.
were invented which made people's life easier, faster and more comfortable. Now,
people have luxurious life. People are more creative and innovative. The world
has become a global village. Thus, people's life has changed a lot from the time of
primitive to advanced scientific age.
satellite rocket internet spaceman
According to August Comte the global society has gone through three stages:
1. Theological Stage
2. Metaphysical Stage and
3. Scientific Age
Some educationists also say that society is developed through three stages:
The Stone Age
The Bronze Age and
The Iron Age
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 10
Importance of Society
Society is a large groups of people living together in a place and sharing many
things in common. As it is a web it is very important for humans to live in. There
are several reasons for becoming a necessity to humans which are listed below:
1. It provides mutual understanding and co-operation.
2. It makes us feel secure and protected.
3. It fulfills needs and demands for each other.
4. It helps to achieve the goals of our life.
5. It helps to protect and promotion of our tradition, culture and norms.
6. It makes us united.
Key Words
mutually : in a shared manner
beast : a person who behaves in a violent, antisocial manner
primitive : primary
nomad : a person or groups of people having no fixed home and
: searching food water
innovative : producing new ideas or products
Prepare a set of dialogue between teachers and students explaining
the evolution of society its stages with its importance.
Activity
Exercise
I. Fill in the blanks with suitable words:
a. Man is __________ and ________ equipped to live in groups in society.
b. In the beginning, human society was very _________.
c. __________ is the first stage of society.
11 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
d. People started cultivating different crops and vegetable in
______________ age.
e. _______________ stage is the most advanced stage of society.
f. Society makes us feel _________ and _________.
II. Answer the following questions:
a. What do you mean by society?
b. Write about the evolution of the society.
c. What is the relationship between human and society? Explain.
d. Write about the stages of society in brief.
e. Describe any two stages of society in detail.
f. Which is the most advanced stage of society? Explain.
g. How is society important to human? Justify your answer.
Community Work
Visit your community and inquire the people living in your society about their
necessity and importance. Prepare the questionnaire relating to society before
visiting community and present the result on the basis of your inquiry.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 12
Lesson Socialization
1.2
The socialization that we receive in childhood has a
FACTS lasting effect on our ability to interact with others in
to Understand society.
Socialization
Socialization is the process by which children and adults learn from others. We
have been being learning from others since the early days of life and continue
social learning all through our life. Hence, socialization is a learning process that
begins shortly after birth. Early childhood is the period of the most intense and
the most crucial socialization. It is then that we acquire language and learn the
fundamentals of our culture. It is also when much of our personality takes shape.
people working for social cleanliness
In simple words, the act or adapting behaviour to the norms of a culture or society
is called socialization. It is the process of adopting the behaviour, patterns of
the surrounding culture. Socialization is very important in human life as it
helps to become social and also develops the personality. The person who is not
socialized, will not be accepted by the society. We learn to be socialized by our
13 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
parents, teachers, friends, relatives, co-workers, siblings, etc. Socialization of
a child begins from his/her family. The child learns to speak, good behaviour,
eating habits, greeting, basic healthy habits, etc. whatever a child learns in the
beginning, decides his/her behaviour and personality. So, a child should get good
environment with positive thoughts since the beginning. Thus, socialization has
great importance in our life. Let's discuss some other importance of socialization
in points:
1. Socialization controls man, i.e. the biological being into the social being.
2. It contributes to the development of personality.
3. It helps to become disciplined.
4. It helps to enact different roles.
5. It provides the knowledge of skills.
6. It helps to develop right aspiration of the life.
7. It contributes to the stability of the social order.
8. It helps to reduce social disorder.
9. It provides scope for building the
bright future.
Agents of Socialization
Agents of socialization are the
individuals groups and institutions
that create the social context in which
socialization takes place. Primary and
secondary socialization are the two
kinds of socialization important in
human life.
Primary socialization involves learning parent's guidance
of the attitude, values and norms of
one's culture. The family is the first point of
an individual's interaction. Children depend
on parents and other family members for
everything and look up to them. From the
family a person learns to share resources and
care others.
Secondary socialization involves learning
what is considered as fitting behaviour as a
member of particular groups within society.
In schools apart from getting knowledge
and skills, children learn how to follow
student respects to their teachers
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 14
instructions and obey the rules. Individuals also learn about social skills from
peers. Mass media such as the internet, television, radio, etc. help people to get
information and learn to shape their behaviour.
Political parties, local organizations like NGOs and INGOs marriage, customs,
festivals, temples and monasteries, occupational groups, economic institutions
like banks, etc. are also the examples of agents of socialization. Therefore, every
agent plays an important role in socialization process in a human life.
Case Study
One of the most famous feral children was Victor of Aveyron who was found wandering in the
woods in southern France in 1797 AD. He then escaped custody but emerged from the woods
in 1800 AD. Victor was thought to be about age 12 and to have been abandoned some years
earlier by his parents. He was unable to speak and acted much more like a wild animal than a
human child. Victor first lived in an institution and then in a private home. He never learned to
speak and his cognitive and social development eventually was no better than a toddler when
he finally died at about age 40.
Victor is mentioned in the book. 'The wild boy of Aveyron' by Lane, H. L. in 1976. The major
cause of his condition was lack of socialization.
Key Words
intense : extreme
enact : to do
aspiration : hope or ambition
stability : condition of being stable or fixed
feral : wild
toddler : a young child between ages one to three years old
Write an essay on importance of socialization in Human Life.
Activity
15 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Exercise
I. Fill in the blanks with suitable words:
a. _____________ is the period of the most intense and the most crucial
socialization.
b. Socialization helps to become___________.
c. Internet is the ___________ agent of socialization.
d. _________ is the primary agent of socialization.
e. Socialization helps to reduce social________.
2. Answer the following questions:
a. What do you mean by socialization?
b. Why is socialization necessary in human life?
c. Explain the importance of socialization in human life.
d. Socialization helps to develop our personality and attitude. Justify it.
e. What do you mean by agent of socialization? Describe its types.
f. Do you think family plays an important role for a child to be socialized?
If yes, how?
Community Work
Do you know any person in your society who is not socialized and his/her behaviour
is different from others? Find such a guy and write what could be the causes and
what behaviours he/she shows; what she/he should learn to be accepted by society.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 16
Lesson District Co-ordination Committee,
1.3
Its Composition and Functions
There are 6 metropolitan cities, 11 sub-metropolitan
FACTS cities, 293 municipalities, 460 Gaunpalikas and 77
to Understand District Coordination Committees in Nepal.
A district is a division of territory as of a country or state marked off for
administrative, electoral or other purposes. Being a democratic republican country,
Nepal also has several districts for its development. There were 77 districts in
Nepal which were created on Baisakh 1, 2018 but at present there are 77 district
in federal government. Each district has headquarters and the Chief District
Officer is the head of the district. In order to carry out overall development of the
district DCC, i.e. District Coordination Committee is formed. Ministry of Federal
Affairs and Local Development (MoFALD) is the governing body in Nepal. The
local governance in Nepal puts DCCs to the body lower to the Ministerial level
and above the Gaunpalika and Municipality in the same district.
District Assembly and District Coordination Committee
There is a District Assembly (Zilla Sabha) to make coordination between Rural
Municipalities (Gaunpalika) and Municipalities (Nagarpalikas).
The District Assembly consists of chairpersons and vice chairpersons of Rural
Municipalities and Mayors and Deputy Mayors of Municipalities within the
district. The District Assembly shall elect the members of District Coordination
Committee (DCC) consisting of a maximum of nine members including one chief,
one deputy chief, at least three women and at least one Dalit or minority. The
District Coordination Committee shall discharge all functions required to be
discharged by the District Assembly. A member of a village Assembly or Municipal
Assembly within the concerned district shall be eligible for the office of chief,
deputy chief or member of District Coordination Committee. The term of office of
the chief, deputy chief and members of the District Coordination Committee shall
be five years after the date of being elected.
The functions, duties and powers of the District Assembly are as follows:
(a) To make coordination between the Gaunpalikas and Nagarpalikas within
the district
(b) To monitor development and construction work to make balance of such
work
17 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
(c) To make coordination between the Federal and the state government offices
and Gaunpalikas and Nagarpalikas in the district.
(d) To perform other functions as provided by the state law.
district meeting
Similarly, the meeting of DCC is held once a month. To conduct the meeting 50%
of the total DCC members must be present. To administer the development work
of the DCC, LDO, i.e. Local Development Officer is appointed by the Government
of Nepal.
Functions of DCC
The major functions or powers of the DCC are as follows:
1. To prepare a budget for different development programmes and present it to
District Assembly for approval
2. To provide a responsive administration at the district level
3. To constitute sub-committees, supervise the work of Gaunpalikas and
municipalities
4. To preserve, protect and promote different caste, creeds, culture and
languages of the district
5. To monitor the implementation of various policies made by the government
of Nepal
6. To prevent the people of the district from epidemics and health hazards
7. To audit the account of Gaunpalikas and municipalities
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 18
8. To carry out various development activities in the society like in the field of
education, health, drinking water, drainage, sanitation, etc.
9. To conduct programmes for public awareness and participation in
development
10. To provide assistance to the victims of different natural calamities like flood,
earthquake, landslide, etc.
11. To make a recommendation to the Council of Ministers to resolve specific
problems of the district
12. To construct, repair, maintain roads, bridges, canals, ponds, sewages, wells
and so on
Key Words
electoral : relating to elections
mayor : the leader of a city or a municipality
epidemic : a widespread disease that affects many individuals in a
population
health hazard : something that can potentially endanger one's health
drainage : removal of water
canal : an artificial waterway
sewage : waste water
Write a letter to your pen friend describing the composition and
the function of District Coordination Committee.
Activity
Exercise
I. State whether the following statements are true or false:
a. A district is a division of territory as of a country or state marked off
for administrative, electoral or other purposes.
b. The full-form of DCC is District Coordination Committee.
19 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
c. The District Assembly is a body in the DCC which forms plans and
policies of the DCC.
d. The tenure of the members of DCC is ten years.
e. To conduct the meeting 80% of the DCC is to carry out various
development activities in the society.
f. The meeting of District Assembly is held once a year.
2. Answer the following questions:
a. What do you mean by a district?
b. When was Nepal divided into districts and zones?
c. Who is the head of the district?
d. Make a list of members of the DCC.
e. Write about the composition of the District Assembly.
f. What role can the DCC play in order to develop a district?
g. What are the criteria to form DCC?
Community Work
Find out the members of your Gaunpalika or municipality of DCC. And ask him/her
about his/her contribution for the development of the district.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 20
Lesson Development Activities of the District
1.4
According to the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) Nepal
FACTS has a total of 301 hospitals which was increased in 2013
to Understand AD. According to Wikipedia the number of schools has
increased to 49,000 by 2010 AD in Nepal.
After learning about the DCC, its composition and functions the students of
grade 7 of Suryapura Gaunpalika of Rupandehi district are going to learn about
Development activities of district.
(The Teacher enters the class)
Teacher : Good morning everyone!
Students : Good morning teacher!
Teacher : How are you?
Student : We are fine and
you?
Teacher : I'm also fine.
Nitika : Teacher, what
are we studying
today?
Teacher : Today, we will
study about our
Gaunpalika.
interaction between teacher and students
Students : Really?
Teacher : Yes! Do you know our Gaunpalika's name?
Students : Yes, sir. It is Suryapura Gaunpalika.
Teacher : Kriti, do you know in which district Suryapura Gaunpalika lies?
Kriti : Yes, sir. It lies in Rupandehi district.
Teacher : Good, there are 17 Ilakas 48 Gaunpalikas 5 municipalities and 1
sub-metropolitan city in Rupandehi and among them Suryapura
is one of the Gaunpalikas.
21 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Harish : Teacher, our Gaunpalika was not like this before. There were
many problems and it lacked many facilities.
Teacher : Harish, can you tell what kind of development is seen in our
Gaunpalika?
Harish : Yes, teacher there were no
proper roads in our Gaunpalika.
Now, we have a road that leads
to Bhairahawa. Currently we
have wide roads instead of
narrow roads. In fact, in the
older time, my mom said there
was a problem of health facility.
But now we have health
services. There is a facility of
drinking water as well. We can health post
even go to post office for mail
related service like posting or
receiving letters or parcels.
There was a security problem
in the past. People used to feel
insecure all the time. After
the establishment of the police
station most of the problems
have been solved. Now, people
feel more secure and if there
comes any problem they
contact the police.
Prakrit : Teacher, may I add other
development activities?
Teacher : Of course, Prakrit.
Prakrit : Education system is improved
here. Children have started
to go to school and enjoy at
school. There was less number
of girls in the past. But these
days number of girls in the
school is increasing. There is
a facility of school as well as
college so that a student does
not have to go to other places
for study. school
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 22
Teacher : Our great achievement is electricity. We were not given electric
supply. But now, we have a facility of electricity as well. We don't
need to light up the candle to study at night. Because of electricity,
we are able to watch our favourite programmes, movies, etc. on
T.V. Here are some private banks as well which provide good
financial services to the people. It is easy to deposit money and
we can save as well. We can even take loan from those banks in
need.
Very good Harish and Prakrit! Can anyone add other development
work of our Gaunpalika?
(None of students spoke)
Teacher : Okay, listen! We have seen people using mobile phones. We can
communicate with our relatives and friends through different
services like Ncell and Nepal Telecom. Furthermore, people of our
village are enjoying 4G network of Ncell. Because of which they
are using faster internet as well. People are using social sites to
be connected with their relatives. People of our village are doing
trade as well. They grow the crops as well and sell in the market.
Because of the rapid development of our village, the population
has increased. The number of population was 13,701 according
to the National Census BS 2058. But the National Census
BS 2068 showed that total population of Suryapura Gaunpalika
was 20,773. Among them 10,396 were males and 10,377 were
females. This shows that the numbers of population is increasing
which means we have good manpower now to develop our village.
NTC logo Ncell logo
Sometimes, we have awareness programmes, health campaign,
etc. in our village which is also important for the development.
Thus, all these things prove that our village has developed a lot.
And we all should work hard for its further progress.
Rita : Thank you teacher. Today we learnt a lot of things about the
development activities of our village. It was interesting and
amazing to listen.
Teacher : It's my pleasure, dear.
23 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
total population is 45,34,943 as per the census,
2011 AD. The highest peak of the world, Mt.
Everest (8,848 m), Mt. Kanchanjunga (8,586
m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,485 m),
Choyu (8,586 m), Nuptse (7,555 m) and
Pumori (7,161 m) are the major peaks
which lie in this region. National Parks
and Conservation Areas like Kanchanjunga
Conservation Area, Koshi Tappu Wildlife
Reserve, Makalu Barun National Park
and Sagarmatha National Park also lie in this
region.
Religious Sites like Pathivara and Haleshi Mahadev
are major pilgrimage sites of this region. Various caste and
ethnic groups like Brahmins, Chhetris, Limbu, Sherpa, Rai, Tharu, Rajbhanshi,
Dhimal, Magar etc. live in this region. The literary rate of this region is 78.3
percent. People in the Terai depend upon agriculture and industries while the
major occupation of the mountainous region is tourism. All the 14 districts of
Eastern Development Region except Saptari and Siraha lie in this province. The
province consists of 1 metropolitan city, 2 sub-metropolitan cities, 46 municipalities
and 88 Gaunpalikas.
The districts of this region are:
1. Taplejung, 2. Panchthar, 3. Ilam,
4. Sankhuwasabha, 5. Tehrathum, 6. Dhankuta,
7. Bhojpur, 8. Khotang 9. Solukhumbu,
10. Okhaldhunga, 11. Udayapur 12. Jhapa
13. Morang 14. Sunsari
Province No. 2
This province elongates only in
the Terai region with high
potentiality of agricultural production.
This region extends its area from Parsa
to Saptari, the southern part of the country
that borders with India. The historical palace of
King Janak, with the traditional Maithili society also lies in this
province. It covers the total area of 9,661 Sq. Km. with population of 54,04,145
(Census 2011 AD). The literary rate is 49.54%. It is the smallest province by
area. Parsa Wildlife Reserve and a part of Koshi Tappu lie in this region. The
famous Gadimai of Bara district, Chhinamasta Bhagwati of Rajbiraj,Saptari
district also lie here.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 26
There is an airport in Simara and one of the major customs in Birgunj is located
here. There are also some important industries in this region. This region is a
common habitant of Yadav, Sah, Kushwaha, Dhanuk, Musahar, Kurmi, Pasawan,
etc. Besides Maithili, Bhojpuri and Awadhi are spoken as well in this region. It
has literacy Rate of only 50 percent. Major Source of Income for the people of this
area are agriculture, forest and revenue collection. The total number of districts
are 8. There are 1 metropolitan city, 3 sub metropolitan cities, 73 municipalities
and 59 Gaunpalikas in this province.
The districts of this province are:
1. Saptari 2. Siraha 3. Dhanusa 4. Mahottari
5. Sarlahi 6. Rautahat 7. Bara and 8. Parsa
Bagmati Pradesh
Located between Tibet (China) in the north
and Province No. 2 in the south, it is the
third smallest province of Nepal with an
area of 20,300 Sq. Km. The capital city
of Nepal, Kathmandu is located
in this province. The total
population of this region is
5,529,452 (census 2011 AD).
The literacy rate is 74.85%. Mt. Ganesh
(7,163 m), Mt. Langtang (7,205 m), Mt. Gaurishankar
(7,134 m) etc. are the important peaks of this region.
Major Rivers like Tamakoshi, Indrawati, Trishuli are famous for rafting
too. Langtang National Park, Shivapuri National Park, Chitwan National Park
and Gaurishankar Conservation area located in this region are important for the
best flora- fauna of Nepal. Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Lalitpur, Hetauda, Chitwan,
Banepa, etc. are the major cities which are also among the best tourist destinations
of Nepal.
The famous trade centre Tatopani lie in this region. One of the greatest pilgrimage
for Hindu followers is Pashupatinath. Swayambhunath, Changunarayan,
Guheshwori, Boudhanath Stupa, etc. are major religious places of this region.
The indigenous groups like Newars, the Tamangs, the Magars, the Rais, the
Sherpas etc. inhabit here. It covers the literacy rate of 56.01 percent. Besides
tourism, agriculture is the major source of income. There are 13 districts with
3 Metropolitan cities and 1 Sub-metropolitan cities in this province. It has 41
municipalities and 74 Gaunpalikas in total.
27 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
The districts of this province are :
1. Dolakha 2. Ramechhap 3. Sindhuli
4. Kavrepalanchok 5. Sindhupalchok 6. Rasuwa
7. Nuwakot 8. Dhading 9. Chitwan
10. Makawanpur 11. Bhaktapur 12. Lalitpur
13. Kathmandu
Gandaki Pradesh
With an area of 21,504 Sq. Km.,
this province lies between China in
the north and Province No. 5 in the
south. Its total population is 24,13,907
(census 2011 AD). The literacy rate is
74.81%. Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), Mt.
Dhaulagiri (8,176 m), Mt. Manaslu
(8,163 m), Mt. Himalchuli (7,893 m)
and Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,993 m) are
important peaks of this region.
Fewa, Rupa, Begnas and Tilicho are
the major lakes and Kaligandaki,
Marshyangdi, Daraudi, Seti, etc. are
the major rivers of this place. Muktinath and Manakamana are very famous
religious destinations of this region. Best known for tourism are Annapurna
conservation Area, Ghale Gaun, Upper Mustang, Kagbeni, Dhorpatan Hunting
Reserve and Pokhara are very famous tourist destinations of Nepal where we can
get the true picturesque of natural Nepal.
The Magars, the Gurungs, and the Thakalis, including the Tharus are the major
indigenous groups of this area. Besides tourism, agriculture, natural resources
and remittance are other sources of income for this region.
The total number of districts is 11 that include 1 metropolitan city, 26 municipalities
and 58 gaupalikas.
The list below is the name of the districts of this province.
1. Gorkha 2. Lamjung 3. Tanahun
4. Kaski 5. Manang 6. Mustang
7. Parbat 8. Syangja 9. Myagdi
10. Baglung 11. Parasi (East of Bardaghat Susta)
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 28
Province No. 5
Province No. 5 is borders
with Gandaki Pradesh
in the east and the
north, Karnali Pradesh
in the north, India in the
south and Sudurpachim
Pradesh in the west.
Two districts are split
between two provinces.
East of Bardaghat Susta
of Nawalparasi falls in
Gandaki Pradesh and
the western part falls in
Province No. 5. Likewise, another district Rukum’s eastern part falls in Province
No. 5 and western part in Karnali Pradesh.
The total area of this province is 22,192 Sq. Km and population is about 48,91,025
(census 2011 AD. Bardiya National Park and Banke National Park are the
important wild life reserves . Major rivers like Karnali, Bheri, Rapti and Babai
flow through this province. The birth place of Gautam Buddha, Lumbini, lies in
this region.
Nepalgunj is the major trade center that lies in this part where people from
Karnali come for trade. Swargadwari is very famous as religious destination.
The Magars, the Tharus, the Muslims, the Yadavs, including the Brahmins, the
Chhetris, the Kamis, the Harijans and the Sarkis live in complete harmony in
this region. The literacy Rate is 66.43%. People mainly depend upon Agriculture,
tourism, natural resources and remittance. The province covers 12 districts out
of which Rukum and Nawalparasi are splitted into other provinces too. There are
4 sub-metropolitan cities, 32 municipalities and 73 Gaunpalikas in this province.
1. Nawalpur (West of Bardaghat Susta) 2. Rupandehi
3. Kapilbastu 4. Palpa 5. Arghakhanchi
6. Gulmi 7. Eastern Rukum 8. Rolpa
9. Pyuthan 10. Dang 11. Banke
12. Bardiya
Karnali Pradesh
The largest province in size, Karnali Pradesh lies in the western part of Nepal.
It borders with Province No. 5 in the south and east, a part of Gandaki Pradesh
in the east, China in the north and Sudurpachim Pradesh in the west. It covers
an area of 28,973 Sq. Km. and has population about 11,68,515 (census 2011 AD).
29 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
The major Peaks are Mt. Kanjirowa
(6, 612 m), Mt. Kanti (6,859 m), Mt.
Gorakh (6,088 m), Mt. Changla (6,563),
etc. Rara National Park and Shey-
Phoksundo National Park are two major
parks and also tourist destinations.
Other central of attractions are Rara
lake, Shey- Phoksundo lake etc. Badi
Malika, Deuti Bajai and Chandannath
temple are some religious sites of this
region. There are airports in Surkhet,
and Jumla too.
Major Ethnic groups are the Bhotes,
the Magars, the Tharus, including the
Thakuris, the Kamis, the Dashnamis/
Sanyasis, the Brahmins, the Chhetris,
the Dholis etc. The literacy rate is 62.77%. The major sources of income are
agriculture, tourism and natural resources.
There are 25 municipalities and 54 Gaunpalikas in this province. The 10 districts
of this region are:
1. Western Rukum 2. Salyan 3. Dolpa
4. Jumla 5. Mugu 6. Humla 7. Kalikot
8. Jajarkot 9. Dailekh 10. Surkhet
Sudurpachim Pradesh
This province is located in the western-most
part of Nepal. It borders India in the west as
well as south and Tibet, China in the north.
Karnali Pradesh and a part of Province 5
also lie in the east of this province. The total
area is 19,539 Sq. Km. and total population is
25,52,517 (census 2011 AD) Major Peaks are
Mt. Api (7,132 m), Mt. Saipal (7,025 m), Mt.
Yokapahad (6,644 m), Mt. Lassa (6,189 m) etc.
Karnali and Mahakali are the major rivers. The
famous lake Ghodaghodi and the pilgrimage
sites like Khaptad lie in this province. Khaptad
National Park and Shuklaphanta National
Park, and Api-Nampa Conservation Area are
major sites for flora and fauna.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 30
The major ethnic groups include the Tharus, the Magars, the Muslims, the
Thakalis, etc. Besides the western dialect of Nepali, Tharu, Urdu and Bhojpuri
are other languages spoken in this region. The literacy rate is 63.45% and major
sources of income are agriculture, hydro-electricity, forest and other natural
resources. The major trade centres are Dhangadi ,Dadeldhura , Mahendranagar
and Dipayal.
There are 1 sub-metropolitan city, 33 municipalities and 54 Gaupalikas in
Sudurpachim Pradesh.
The districts are as follows:
1. Bajura 2. Bajhang 3. Doti
4. Achham 5. Darchula 6. Baitadi
7. Dadeldhura 8. Kanchanpur 9. Kailali
Key Words
renowned : famous
proportional : at a constant ratio
flora : plant life of any particular region
fauna : animal life of any particular region
Draw a map of Nepal showing all the provincial states. Colour
Activity each state differently.
Exercise
A. Fill in the blanks.
a. Our capital city lies in the ................
b. Khaptad is famous ................ place in Sudurpachim Pradesh.
c. There are ................ districts in Province No. 1.
d. The two districts divided in two provinces are ................ and ................
e. There are ................ national parks in Province No. 5.
f. Mt. Everest is located in Province No. ................
31 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
g. Province No. .......... has got the highest population as per Census 2011.
h. Province No. ................ has the more national parks among other
provinces.
i. There are more Gaunpalikas in ................ than other provinces.
B. Answer the following questions:
a. Why and when was Nepal declared a federal republic?
b. Which is the largest province of Nepal?
c. Write down the major rivers and mountains of Province No. 1.
d. What are the major attractions of Gandaki Pradesh?
e. Name the pilgrimage sites of Bagmati Pradesh.
f. Which province has the highest prospect of tourism industry? Explain.
g. Which province, do you think, is sound economically? How?
h. Which is the least developed province? What is it famous for?
i. Explain the importance of federalism in Nepal.
j. Write about your own province including industries, religious sites
and central of attractions.
k. Write the total number of metropolitan cities, sub-metropolitan cities,
municipalities and Gaunpalikas of all seven provinces.
Community Work
Divide your classroom into four groups and name them. Select a leader from each
group.
Make a set of development work for your province and present speech in your class.
Project Work
Taking references from the teachers and internet find out the countries having
Federal System of Government in the world.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 32
Lesson Infrastructure of Development: Transportation
1.6
Nepal has total road network of 80,078 km. That includes 26,935 km
FACTS roads constructed and being maintained by Department of Roads(DOR)
to Understand and 53,143 km road constructed by the government local bodies. Of
the total 53,143 km local rural road, only 1,697 km has been black-
topped, 38,898km is earthen road and 12,548km has been gravelled.
Source: Himalayan News Service
Article Published on
July 13, 2015 AD
Infrastructures refer to the basic facilities service and installations needed for
the functioning of a community or society. Transportation is also one of the
infrastructures of development. It is the act of transporting or the state of being
transported often of people, goods, etc. In other words it is the movement of people
and goods from one place to another. Transport infrastructure consists of roads
railways, airways, waterways, canals and pipelines and terminals. Automobiles,
bicycles buses, trains, trunks, helicopters, aircraft, etc. are the means of
transportation used for travelling.
Transport is one of the most important infrastructures of development as it enables
trade between persons, which is essential for the development of civilizations. It
facilitates trade, exchange and travel. In the ancient time, people used to travel
through bullock carts, horses, camel, etc. but now humans can also travel in air
as well as space.
Means of transportation
There are mainly five important means of transportation. They are explained
briefly.
a. Roadways
Roadway or road transport is the
transport of passengers or goods on
roads. Though Nepal is a landlocked
and mountainous country, it has made
considerable progress in roadways.
Roadways are the best and prominent
means of transport in Nepal as it is
connected to most of the part of the
country. In comparison to other means vehicles running on the road
33 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
of transport, roadways are less expensive and can be easily run in our country.
There are several highways which are linked with different areas of the country.
Here are some important roads or highways of Nepal.
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS IN NEPAL
Sl.No. Name Length Starting Point Ending Point
1 East-West 1028 km Mechi Bridge, Gaddachowki Border, Banbasa,
Highway Jhapa Border Kanchanpur
2 Tribhuvan 189 km Tribhuvan Statue, Sirsiya Bridge,
Highway Tripureshwor Birgunj Border
3 Kathmandu -Kodari 114 km Maitighar Junction, Friendship Bridge,
(Araniko) Highway Kathmandu Kodari Border
4 Prithvi 174 km Naubise, Dhading Prithvi Chowk, Pokhara
Highway
5 Madan Ashrit 36 km Chitwan, Naryanghat Mugling, Chitwan
Highway
6 B.P Koirala Highway 90.75 Bardibash Dhulikhel
km
7 Mechi Highway 268 km Kechana Border, Taplejung
Bhadrapur
8 Sagarmatha Highway 265 km Kadmaha, Saptari Solusalleri, Solukhumbu
9 Siddhartha Highway 182 km Sunauli Border Prithvi Chowk, Pokhara
10 Rapti Highway 196 km Ameliya, Dang Musikot, Rukum
11 Ratna Highway 113 km Jamuniya Border, Bangesimal, Surkhet
Nepalgunj
12 Karnali Highway 232 km Surkhet, Bangesimal Jumla, Kalikot
13 Bhimdutta Highway 320 km Mohana Bridge, Darchula
Dhangadhi Border
14 Seti Highway 66 km Syaule, Dadeldhura Samuwagad
Among them, the Tribhuwan Highway is the oldest highway and East West
highway is the longest highway of Nepal.
b. Airways or Air Transport
Airways or air transport is the fastest and expensive means of transportation.
The movement of people or goods is done through air. Air transportation was started
in Nepal in BS 2006. The Nepal Airline Corporation (NAC) previously known as
the Royal Nepal Airline Corporation, fly to different places in the country and
abroad. There is service of domestic and international flight in Nepal. Altogether
there are about 52 airports in Nepal. Helicopter services are also available. The
country's only international airport and the hub of all air service in the country
is Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA). There are other companies operating
their flight like Yeti Air, Buddha Air, Sita Air, Agni Air, Goma Air, etc. There are
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 34
some direct flights from Kathmandu (Nepal) to India, Bangladesh, China, the
UAE, South Korea, Qatar, Thailand, Japan, etc.
Tribhuwan International Airport, Gausala
c. Railways
Railways is also another means of transport. But in Nepal it is limited. Due
to hills and mountains in most of the parts of our country, this means of transport
is not developed here. Only a small part in the Terai has the railway. The only
railway service in Nepal is Janakpur-Jaynagar Railway connecting Bijalpura
with Jaynagar in India. It covers the distance of 53 km. It was established in
BS 1992. This railway service is not in good condition as it is very old. There was
another railway running from Amlekhgunj to Raxaul in India. It was the first
railway of Nepal which started in BS 1985 having the distance of 50 km. but, it
has been discontinued now.
Janakpur -Jaynagar railway
d. Ropeways
Ropeways are one of the important means of transport for The country
like Nepal where there are many hills and mountains. The first ropeway was
started in BS 1985 from Dhoring to Matatirtha with the distance of 22.5 km by
35 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Chandra Shumsher. Another ropeway was established in BS 2021 from Hetauda
to Kathmandu with the distance of 42 km. But they are not in operation the
existing ropeway services are from Kurintar to Manakamana with a distance
of 3.1 km, Godam (Thankot)-Chandragiri with 2.2 km and Kushma-Balewa of
Parbat district with a distance of 600 m which recently came in operation from
Feb 2013 and has a capacity to carry 1000 persons per day. This is known by the
name of cable car nowadays.
Manakamana cable car
e. Waterways
Though Nepal is rich in water resource, there is no proper or reliable water
transport. As Nepal is a landlocked country, water transport is not developed
here and cannot be used for export and import. In addition to this, the rivers
of Nepal are fast, flowing and mostly flow down steep slopes so there is no good
water transport. However, rafting in Trishuli, Bhotekoshi, Karnali, Sunkoshi
is popular. There are boat services in some lakes like Phewa, Rupa, Begnas.
Streamers are also sailing on the reservoir of the Kaligandaki. These are the
attraction of tourists.
Kaligandaki rafting
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 36
Transport has made the world smaller and has maintained the relation with
other countries as well. Nepal has mainly developed roadways and airways but is
still poor in transport. The reasons behind it are physical features and economic
backwardness of the country because of which we have to depend upon other
countries' assistance. Yaks, Ponnies, sheep, etc. in mountains and bullock carts,
bicycles, horses in the Terai are still in use in Nepal.
Key Words
installation : an act of using
canal : a young bull
discontinued : permanently no longer available
operation : in use
reliable : trustworthy
steep : high
reservoir : a place where anything is kept in store
Organize a speech competition on the 'Importance of Transport
Activity in Development'.
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions:
a. What do you mean by transport?
b. Write about the means of transport in brief?
c. How can transport help in the development of a country?
d. Which is the prominent means of transport in Nepal?
e. Which is the reliable means of transport in Himalayan region? Why?
f. A waterway is the cheapest means of transportation. Give reason.
Community Work
Observe the condition of transportation in your community and make a list of
transportation that is used.
37 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Lesson Infrastructure of Development:
1.7
Communication
There are 2743 national and local newspaper/Journals
FACTS (daily, weekly first night, monthly, three monthly, four
to Understand monthly, half years and yearly) Among them 1500 are
regularly published.
(source: Central Bureau of Statistics, 2058)
The communication is the way of expressing our thought. In other words, it
means sending or receiving message between two or more people. We can express
our feelings to the other through communication. Devices used to talk or to send
message one end to the other or from one person to other are called means of
communication. Some of the means of communication are letter, newspapers
telephone, T.V, internet, fax, magazines, etc. The development of means of
communication has made interpersonal relation close, interact and easy. Someone
who can effectively communicate thoughts, ideas and feelings is better equipped
for success both on the job and in personal relationship. There are different ways of
communication like verbal on spoken, non-verbal, written and visualization. Some
of the transitional forms of communication in Nepal are Katwal Karaune where
a person (Katwal) shouts and gives us message. It is the oldest communication
practised in Nepal: Gandharva Gauva refers to the method in which Gandharva
(an ethnic group in Nepal) sing the messages in the form of song. They take a
'Sarangi' with them and sing the messages. Jhyali Pitne is a traditional method
where a man beats a huge drum and call for the villagers to gather at the square
(chowk). Then the special announcement is made by another person who carries
a letter and reads it out. Damaha Bajaune is another method which is similar to
Jhyali Pitne. Here, they use Damaha (instrument) to beat.
Postal service, i.e. using pigeons when one needed to send messages far away.
This method was used from ancient time. These methods were used before modern
means of communication.
Postal Service
Postal Service was started in BS 1937 (i.e. 1880 AD) in Nepal. Letters, parcels
money order are sent through the post office. Our country has more than 177
postal saving banks.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 38
Radio Service
It is another means of communication. It gives us various information and
entertainments. It is the cheapest means of communication. The Radio Nepal
was established in BS 2007 (i.e. 1951 AD). The Central transmission centre is in
Singha Durbar. There are more than 24 FM radio stations in Nepal. For example,
Kantipur FM, Koshi FM, hits FM, Butwal FM, Image FM, Radi etc.
Television
It is a very effective means of communication. It runs through electricity and
provides a lot of information. Television telecasts news, views, advertisement songs,
movies and different programmes. Nepal television was established in BS 2042
(1985 AD) and its transmission centre is at Singha Durbar there are some popular
channels that are running like Kantipur Television, Image Channel, ABC news,
Avenues TV, etc.
Newspapers
Newspapers are cheaper than television and radio. It carries news of all that
is happening all over the world. It also contains articles, literature, review of
films, politics, religion, etc. It is available in different languages as well. The
first newspaper of Nepal is the Gorkhapatra which was published in BS 1958.
Different types of newspapers in different languages are published daily, weekly,
monthly, fortnightly, etc.
Tele-Communication
It is an advance form of communication. These have become most commonly used
means of communication. They are not only fast but also link far distance location
within no time. It can be used in city as well as in village/rural areas. Telephone
service was established in BS 1970 during the Rana period. By BS 2007 it was
used in Kathmandu, Dhankuta, Palpa, Pokhara. Currently, it is used in all the
districts. Mobile phones have become popular nowadays as it can be carried
anywhere and a person can talk at any time. Besides telephone, fax, e-mail,
internet are also used as a means of communication.
In the present state
telephone service is
available in urban areas and Do You Radars are mostly used by armed
hundreds of village. Apart Know forces for receiving information
from Central Transmission about enemies. They can be used
Centre, Radio Nepal has to get the position of enemy's
5 Regional Transmission
cities in the region. In the aircrafts in air.
39 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
past there were problems in transportation because of which communication
facility could not develop but now the situation is changed and telephone service
has been established in the headquarters of all 77 districts of the country.
Key Words
interpersonal : between two or more people
telecast : to broadcast by television
fortnight : bi-weekly
Prepare a collage of means of communication.
Activity
Exercise
1. Answer the following questions:
a. What do you mean by communication?
b. What are the types of communication? Name them.
c. Find out the difference between traditional and modern means of
communication.
d. Which is the popular means of communication in the present world?
e. What kinds of program do you watch in T.V? Prepare a report and
present it in your class.
Community Work
Make a survey of your community and find out the most popular means of
communication.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 40
Unit
2 OUR SOCIAL NORMS AND VALUES
Learning Outcomes of the Unit
The competencies of the social studies curriculum in
the unit are to enable students to:
UNIT CONTENTS
2.1 Religious Customs of Our know the important rites and rituals of different
Society 42 people living in society.
2.2 Social Customs of encourage the preservation and promotion of
Our Society 46 traditions and society
2.3 Nation and Nationality 48 explain the importance of folk songs, folk dances and
2.4 Gehendra Shumsher: folk musical instruments
The First Nepali Scientist 52 know about the historical personalities and their
2.5 Some Historical Personalities contributions
of Our Country 55 know about the first scientist of Nepal and his
2.6 Our Social Behaviours, contributions
Cultures and Traditions 60 elements to feel pride in Nepal
2.7 Our Folk Culture 63
Review Questions 67
41 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Lesson Religious Customs of Our Society
2.1
According to 2011 census, 81.3 percent of the Nepalese
FACTS population was Hindus, 9 percent was Buddhist, 4.4
to Understand percent was Muslim, 3 percent was Kirant, 1.42 percent
was Christian and 0.9 percent follow other religious or
no religion.
Nepal is a multi-religious country. In Nepal, more than 10 religions are followed.
The religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Kirant, Christianity, Sikhism,
Jainism and the Bahaism, etc. are followed in our country. The Hindu religion
is considered as the oldest religion among the other religions. Some of the major
religions have been discussed in detail.
Hinduism
Hinduism is considered as the oldest
religion among all the religions. It is based
on the philosophy of four Vedas. It is also
called Sanatan Dharma or Vedic religion.
Polytheism is practiced in this religion.
There are many gods and goddesses in
Hinduism who have their own identify. For
example, Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswora
(Shiva) are considered as creator, preserver
and destroyer respectively, Lord Ganesh is praying God Ganesh
the symbol of success, Hanuman removes
pains, Goddess Laxmi, Durga and Saraswoti are the symbol of wealth, power and
wisdom respectively. The holy books of Hinduism are the Vedas, the Ramayan,
the Mahabharata, the Upanishads, etc. The Hindus recite mantras and hymns.
They worship their deities by using the method of Panchopachar, Dasopachar and
Shodashopachar. Hindu followers take fast in various religious occasions and visit
temples. The major festivals are Dashain, Tihar, Chhath, Holi, Mahashivaratri,
etc. People believe to help the poor, needy, old people, sadhus and santas (sages
and saints). Omkar is highly respectable. These are forms of the special features
of the Hindu religion.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 42
Buddhism
Buddhism is the second largest religion
followed in the country. This religion
was originated in Nepal. Lord Buddha
was the founder of this religion. The
followers of the religion are called
Buddhists. The main religious places
of Buddhists are monasteries, stupas
like Swayambhunath, Boudhanath,
Lumbini, etc. Tripitak and the Jatak
tales are the main religious books of
the Buddhism. The main festivals Buddhist prayers
of the religion are Lhoshar, Buddha
Jayanti, Oso, Dumji, etc.
Islam
Islam is another major religion followed in Nepal.
The followers of Islam religion are known as
Muslims. Prophet Mohammad is the messenger
of god and he established Islam religion. Muslims
worship Allah. The Quran is the sacred book of
Islam. The followers of this religion are against the
idol worship. They go to mosque to read Namaz.
They believe on Fitra which means donation. The
main features of Islam religion are to believe on
charity, read Namaz every Friday compulsorily,
perform Roja for one month, making hajj or
pilgrimages to Mecca and give Zakat to the poor. Muslim prayers
The major festivals are Eid and Bakar Eid.
Kirant
The Kirant religion is founded
by Mahaguru Falgunanda. The
Kirantis believe in nature and
they worship natural things like
hills, trees, rivers, stones, etc. as
their God-Mother and God-father.
Their main deities are Sumnima
and Paruhang. The main religious
book of the Kirants is Mundhum.
Kiranti people celebrate festivals Udhauli festival
like Udhauli and Ubhauli.
43 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Christianity
The place of origin of Christianity is
Jerusalem and founder is Jesus Christ. Jesus
Christ was born in Jerusalem, Palestine.
The holy book of the Christians is the 'Bible'.
According to Jesus Christ, service to human
kind is service to God. They go to church to
pray Jesus Christ. Christians have various
cultural traditions according to the Bible.
The special features of Christianity are to be
merciful, be generous, love everyone and do Christain prayer
good deeds to be kind to others, etc.
Similarly, some other religions are Jainism, Bahaism, Sikhism. Every religion has
same principles that are peace and non-violence. Each religious follower practices
their traditions and culture according to their religious norms and values. People
respect each other's religions in Nepal. Mostly among the Hindus and the Buddhist
religious tolerance is maintained very highly. Hindus visit monasteries whereas
Buddhists visit temples to worship.
Key Words
polytheism : the belief that there is more than one god
religious tolerance : to maintain equality among the religions
Divide the classroom into 4 groups and ask the students to draw
Activity the symbols of their religions and explain it.
Exercise
I. Fill in the blanks with suitable words:
1. Polytheism is practiced in __________ religion.
2. ___________ is the holy book of Buddhists.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 44
3. The founder of Kirant religion is ________.
4. Jesus Christ was born on _________ December.
5. ________ is maintained with the Hindus and the Buddhists.
II. Answer the following questions:
1. Name the major religions followed Nepal.
2. Which religion do you follow? Write some rituals you perform according
to your religion.
3. Who is the founder of Islam religion?
4. What kinds of festivals are celebrated by the Kirantis?
5. What is the philosophy of Christianity?
Community Work
Visit your locality and collect the data of the followers of different religions. Also
ask them about the religious rituals they observe. Prepare a report on the basis of
your research.
45 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Lesson Social Customs of Our Society
2.2
When any stranger introduces to an Italian he/she
FACTS should say 'good day' (buongiorno) and shake hands.
to Understand ' Hello' (Ciao) is used among close friends and young,
but it isn't considered polite while addressing strangers
unless they use it first.
Social customs are the set of codes and rules of conduct and practices of a society.
These customs are handed over by one generation to another generation. These
are activities that we perform in our society from pre-birth to post-birth in the
form of various rites and rituals.
Our society is heterogeneous society. Various types of caste, culture, language,
religion, etc. are mixed in our society. The lifestyle of the people is influenced
by their religion, culture, etc. We observe various social activities like naming
ceremony, marriage ceremony, chaurasi puja, death rituals, etc. These celebrations
are different from place to place, one religion to another and one caste to another.
Society, culture and customs are inseparable to each other. Culture is the way
of living which includes beliefs, rituals, traditions, norms and values that are
practiced by our ancestors and handed over from one generation to another. Social
customs and rituals are the major components of religion so that the people follow
them accordingly.
Despite diversity, there is common understanding among the people to follow
social customs. The Constitution of Nepal 2072 has guaranteed the religious
freedom of the people.
This legal provision has strongly supported the existence of social customs and
traditions of all in our country. Some of the common understanding among the
people are given below:
1. Respect to each other's customs and traditions
2. Respect to parents, teachers, elders and love to juniors
3. Welcome guests as god (Atithi Devo Bhava)
4. Maintain unity in diversity
5. Observe feast and festivals together
6. Share joy and sorrows together
7. Preserve all culture and customs
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 46
People in Nepal are living in full of peace and harmony. They feel their duty
to protect and promote own identity. Despite these good customs, some are bad
too. Such as untouchability, gender discrimination, dowry, etc. Similarly, some
social customs that bring bad practices in society are extravagant in festivals,
unnecessary feast and celebration use of alcohol beverages, etc. These social
practices harm in the society. This should be controlled.
Key Words
heterogeneous : made up of parts that are different
beverages : alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks
Discuss the various social customs you practice in the society.
Activity
Exercise
I. Fill in the blanks with suitable words:
1. Our society is ______ society.
2. The lifestyle of people is in influenced by _________.
3. ___________ and ________ are inseparable to each other.
4. People in Nepal are living in full of peace and _________.
5. People share _________ and ________ together.
II. Answer the following questions:
a. What is social custom?
b. Why is social custom important to follow?
c. 'Society, culture and customs are inseparable to each other'. Justify
the statement.
d. Explain the common understanding of the people in the society.
e. What are the bad customs existed in the society? Make a list of them.
Community Work
Make a list of social customs that are followed in your community and present in
your class.
47 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Lesson Nation and Nationality
2.3
The word nation is derived from the Latin word 'Natio'
FACTS which means people, tribe, kin or class.
to Understand
Today, the students of Grade 7 are very happy in social studies period because
today a guest lecturers is coming to give extra information to them. The teachers
enter the class with guest lecturer Mrs. Shova Sharma.
Teacher : Good morning students! Please take your seat. We have
invited Mrs. Shova Sharma. She is a professor in one of
the reputed colleges. Today, Professor Sharma will explain
us about the nation and the nationality. If you have any
queries you can get them clarified.
Manish : What is a nation, ma'am?
Professor Sharma : Listen! Nation is a country having a certain territory,
population, single government and ensured sovereignty.
The people living in the same nation share the same
language for communication, culture and history. They
share the same facilities given by the government.
Aagya : Why is Nepal called a nation?
Prof. Sharma : A very good question. Nepal has its fixed territory. You
know that the total area of Nepal is 1,47,181 sq. km, its
average length from east to west is 885 km and 193 km
is its average width. Similarly, it has total population
of 2,64,94504 and has a federal government to run the
country. Nepal is an independent and sovereign country. It
has never come under the control of any powerful country.
In this way, the required four elements to form a nation
like territory, population, government and sovereignty are
available in Nepal. Therefore, Nepal is called a nation.
Asmi : What can we do for the welfare of our nation?
Prof. Sharma : As a responsible citizen we can do many things for the
welfare of the nation and being a student you can contribute
too as an adult can. You can become an ideal human
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 48
resource for your country by studying well and becoming
well-disciplined with good morality. You can help to protect
public properties like temples, monasteries, mosques, taps,
bridges, street lamps and development activities, aware
people against corruption and existing social evils and
other malpractices of the nation.
Sukriti : I heard about nationality, what is it ma'am?
Prof. Sharma : The word nationality is derived from the word nation. It is
the psychological feelings or sentiments of the people living
in the particular nation. Their love, affection, patriotism is
seen through various ways. This feeling is called nationality.
Nationality is our identification.
Surakshya : How do our ancestors protect the sovereignty of the
country?
Prof. Sharma : Our country was united by great king Prithivi Narayan
Shah. He is known as the 'Father of the Nation.' Our brave
warriors Amar Singh Thapa,
Bhakti Thapa, Balabhadra
Kunwar, etc. fought bravely
to defend our nation during
Anglo-Nepal War. Our
great martyrs Shukra
Raj Shashtri, Gangalal.
Shrestha, Dharma Bhakta
Mathema and Dasharath
Chand fought against the
democracy in the country.
They sacrificed their life to
give comfort and freedom to
us. In this way our ancestors
Nepalese war against British Emperor protected the sovereignty,
independence and identity
of the country.
We live in Nepal and our nationality is Nepali. It is our
identity. The unique art, culture, tradition, lifestyle,
natural resources are our valuable heritage. We have great
respect towards our national anthem, national dress and
constitution, national emblem, etc. which enhance the glory
of our nation. Therefore what are we doing for the nation
and what kind of feelings we have towards our nation that
is called nationality.
49 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Rijan : Ma'am, is there any relation between a nation and
nationality?
Prof. Sharma : Of course! Rijan. The nation and nationality are inseparable
like a concrete thing and these are manifested by human
character and behaviour. These characteristics come
from the nation's history, art literature, customs, lifestyle
and manners. The characteristics are handed down
from tradition to tradition and to act according to these
characteristics is called nationality. It is above the feeling
of the personal interest. In the present context nationality
means the protection and preservation of national objects,
being loyal to the nation, continuing the tradition and
safeguarding the past glory.
Aagya : Nowadays, most of the Nepalese are going abroad
for different purposes. In such cases can nationality
be maintained?
Prof. Sharma : A very good question, dear! Yes, nationality can be
maintained within and outside the country. People can use
their own costumes and food on different occasions. They
can communicate in own language with Nepali speakers.
These are the ways of presentation of nationality. Similarly,
showing respect to the emblems and national glories is
nationality. The nationality indicates the existence of
people.
Students : Thank you ma'am. Now we understood everything about
nation and nationality and their importance.
Prof. Sharma : My pleasure students. (Bell rang, teacher and Professor
Shova Sharma left the classroom.)
Key Words
territory : an area of land that belongs to a government
sovereignty : power to govern a country
malpractice : illegal or wrong action by someone
Suppose you live in a foreign country, how do you present your
Activity nationality? Think and write.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 50
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