Lesson Democratic Culture
4.5
In a democracy, the poor will have more power than the
FACTS rich because there are more number of poor people and
to Understand the will of the majority is supreme.
Aristotle
Democracy is a system of government that runs according to the will of the
people. The sovereignty belongs to the people, with the people in this system.
Democracy is a Greek word derived from Demos and Kratia which means rule
by the people. It aims to promote welfare of the people. In a democratic country
all citizens are equal, enjoy equal rights, opportunities, freedom and every kind of
privilege. Aristotle a Greek philosopher describes democracy as a perverted form
th
of popular rule. Abraham Lincoln, the 16 president of USA, defined democracy
as 'democracy is a government of the people by the people and for the people'.
There are two types of democracy. They are direct democracy and indirect
democracy. In direct democracy, people assemble in one place, discuss and decide.
Mostly people from the aristocrat family used to involve in such type of democracy.
The most popular type of democracy is an indirect type of democracy. Citizens
choose representatives through election. It is based on Universal Adult Franchise.
The government formed by the people is responsible and dedicated to the people.
In the recent years, the term 'Democracy' has got its popularity as Loktantra after
the successful People's Mass Movement II of BS 2062/2063. It is defined as the
complete democracy in Nepal. The country is declared a republic.
The democratic culture is based on people. In democratic culture, there is no
discrimination on caste language, religion, sex, culture, tradition, region, class, etc.
All the people are treated equally in democracy. People are free to enjoy the rights
given by the state. People become active and conscious politically. Democratic
culture is essential for all-round development of a society. To make democratic
culture effective and successful, the following things should be practiced.
Maintain equality
Proper use of rights
Equal behaviour
Perform duties
Love and respect to each other
101 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Selfless service
Develop we feeling
Proper use of public property
Avoid untouchability
Respect law and order
Co-operate the government
Democracy has its own norms and values as well as principles. Some basic norms
are given below:
Sovereignty in people
Right of identity
Rule of law
Fundamental rights
Periodic Election
Power decentralization
Good governance
Freedom of party politics
Active peoples participation
Good civil society
Protection of Human Rights
Democracy is not only the structure of a democratic government but also a way
of life and existence. In democratic culture all the rights of people are secured,
freedom to live without any disturbances and conflict, peace and harmony is
maintained and unity and religious tolerance are highly practiced. So, to develop
democratic culture is today's need as well as prosperous future.
Key Words
aristocrat : a person belongs to the noble family
Universal Adult Franchise : voting rights given to a person who attains
18 years of age
Make a poster which shows democracy, culture and paste it on
Activity the display board in your classroom.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 102
Exercise
I. State whether the following statements are true or false:
1. Democratic culture is very essential to govern the country.
2. Democracy seized all the power or of the citizen.
3. Democracy is important for our equal existence.
4. No discrimination and same remuneration shall be made between men
and women for the same work.
5. The democratic government is based on people and politics.
II. Answer the following questions:
1. Define democracy.
2. Why is democratic culture essential for development of equal existence?
3. What methods should be applied to make democratic culture effective
and successful? Make a list.
4. What are democratic norms and values? Why is it important?
5. What is a complete democracy called in Nepal? Why is it called so?
Community Work
Observe the practices of democratic culture in your community. Make a list of all
the practices and present it to your teacher.
103 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Lesson Equal Behaviour
4.6
The day may be approaching when the whole world
FACTS will recognize women equal to men.
to Understand Susan B. Anthony
Equal behaviour is an act or action in which we deal with people of different
castes, cultures, languages, genders, religions, occupations, etc. without showing
any discrimination. Behaviour shows our personal conduct, character, attitude
and action.
Civilized citizens always maintain equality among all irrespective of their classes,
castes, genders, religion, culture, etc. Everyone is equally important for the
nation and before the eye of law social harmony, love, understanding, politeness,
selflessness, etc. are the basic elements for promoting equal behaviour. There
should be no differences among the citizens. All are equal before law. A person
should be judged by his deeds and qualities not by his caste or money.
Practice of discrimination on any ground is punishable by law. Discrimination
leads to misunderstanding, disharmony, hostility and chaos among the people.
Therefore, it is very important to have equal behaviour among each other.
A good citizen always behaves in a good manner and shows equal behaviour
to everybody in prosperity of the nation. There are many ways to show equal
behaviours. Some are given below:
Mutual understanding and co-operation
Respect to the elders and love to the juniors
Respect the feeling of the others
Share feelings, ideas and opinions with each other
Speak politely, show good behaviour and help when required
Do not discriminate on the basis of caste, culture, class, language, gender,
religion, region, etc.
Proper use of public property and teach the same to others
Promote equal public participation
Do You
Know Pioneer Nepali poet Laxmi Prasad Devkota said, a man
becomes great by his deeds or heart not by caste.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 104
Key Words
discrimination : differences
pioneer : a person who helps creates or develops new ideas
Divide the class into two groups and role play on untouchability.
Activity Request your teacher to be a judge.
Exercise
I. State whether the following statements are true or false:
1. Mutual understanding and cooperation leads to peace.
2. Equality cannot maintain good society.
3. A person who shows good behaviour is a civilized citizen.
4. Behaviour does not show our conduct and character.
5. To maintain equality is essential for a democratic government.
II. Answer the following questions:
1. What is equal behaviour?
2. What is the importance of equal behaviour in democratic government?
3. What are the ways of promoting equal behaviour? Make a list.
4. 'People should be judged by their ability, character and contributions
not by their caste.' Explain.
5. What would happen if you show unequal behaviours in neighbourhood?
Community Work
There may be some social inequalities prevalent in your community. Find out their
cause and adverse effects and prepare a report and present it to your teacher.
105 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Lesson Social Norms and Values
4.7
Peer pressure and social norms are powerful influences
FACTS on behaviour.
to Understand Andrew Lanstey
Social norms are certain traditions
and rules of a society to run smoothly.
Every society has its own social
norms and values. Norms and values
are also called conduct. In society
there are both good and bad conducts.
Good conduct leads to prosperous
society whereas bad conduct declines
the reputation of a society. They
cannot be in favour of social progress
and development. Such kind of bad
practices should be either reformed
or eliminated from the society. The
systematic rules and regulations
speed up the path of social peace and
prosperity. Some of the common social norms and values existing in Nepalese
society are
Respect elders and love junior
Welcome guest as a god (Atithi Devo Bhawa)
Get together on festivals and other occasions like marriage, bratabandha,
naming ceremony, weaning ceremony, etc.
Perform rites and rituals according to the norms of the society.
Help the needy people.
Be polite and kind to others.
Give priority to the group interest than individual interest.
Protect public properties like taps, wells, canals, trails, religious sites and
monuments schools, health posts, etc.
Maintain equality among all classes, castes, genders, religions, languages,
regions, etc.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 106
Use local goods and promote local materials.
Promote and protect heritages.
Encourage sustainable development for future generation.
The society is recognized by the conduct of the people. Society will be more
civilized and developed if people show good behaviours. Hard working people feel
their responsibility. They keep every norms and values are the essence of an ideal
society, everyone must follow it sincerely.
Benefits of following the Social Norms and Values
Develop the habits of respecting seniors and love juniors, gain knowledge
from parents and teachers.
Learn to be civilized, disciplined, noble, etc.
Lean to promote socialization.
Promote and preserves culture. Learn the value of brotherhood.
Help to maintain environmental balance by exploiting natural resources
wisely.
Fill up the table given below:
Activity Good Customs Bad Customs
Key Words
bratabandha : sacred thread ceremony; upanayan
107 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Exercise
I. Fill in the blanks with suitable words:
1. Every society has its own ________ and _________.
2. _______ customs cannot be in favour of progress of a society.
3. The systematic rules and ____ speed up the path of peace and ________.
4. Respect ________ and love junior is one of the social norms.
5. A society is recognized by the ______of the people.
II. Answer the following questions:
1. What are social norms and values?
2. Why is it necessary to follow social norms? Write briefly.
3. Mention any six specific rules of the Nepalese society?
4. What happens when bad practices are followed in a society? Explain
with examples.
5. Who are responsible for maintaining proper rules and regulations in a
society?
6. Write any four rules and regulations of your classroom.
Community Work
There may be some norms and values followed in your family. List them out and
share with your friends in the class.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 108
Review Questions
1. What are the fundamental elements of a state? Make a list and explain any two.
2. Why is government essential to run the country?
3. What is sovereignty? Write the importance of sovereignty in a state.
4. What is a fundamental right?
5. How many fundamental rights are guaranteed by the Constitution of Nepal 2072?
6. Make a list of fundamental rights on priority basis.
7. What happens in absence of fundamental rights?
8. What is child right? Why is it prohibited to involve children in any risky job?
9. What is Right against Exploitation? Explain.
10. Write the importance of child rights.
11. Rights and duties are two sides of the same coin. Justify this statement.
12. What is democratic culture?
13. Write the definition of democracy according to the Abraham Lincoln.
14. 'Equal behaviour enhances understanding and cooperation among people.
Classify the statement.
15. People should be judged by their ability, character and contributions not by their
caste. Explain.
109 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Unit
5 OUR EARTH
Learning Outcomes of the Unit
The competencies of the social studies curriculum in
UNIT CONTENTS the unit are to enable students to:
5.1 An Introduction to Latitude
and Longitude 111 understand the structure of the earth
5.2 Topography of the Earth know the internal and external elements which bring
and Its Changes 114 changes on surface of the earth
5.3 Nepal: Physical Features and explain the geographical features and climate of
Socio-Economic Condition 119 Nepal
5.4 Map Work 123 understand the socio-economic life of the Nepalese
5.5 Climate Change and learn to draw map of a Nepal and various facts in it
Its Effects 126 know the cause and effects of climate change
5.6 Disaster Management 130 share the ideals of disaster and its management
5.7 Europe: Its Geography and know the geography of Europe and Australia and their
Socio-economic Life 133 socio-economic life
5.8 Australia: Its Geography and
Socio-economic Life 137
Review Questions 142
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 110
Lesson An Introduction to Latitude and
5.1
Longitude
Africa is the only continent that is in all four hemispheres: East,
FACTS West, North and South. It is therefore also the only continent to
to Understand have land on the prime meridian and the equator.
You have already learnt about latitude and longitude in grade six. It was just an
introduction. Now, in this lesson you will learn about these imaginary lines in
detail and discuss their uses in day to day life.
Latitude
Latitude is an imaginary line drawn parallel to the equator. In other words it is an
angular distance of the earth from the equator to the south or the north. There are
lines drawn in this angular distance. There are five major lines of latitude. The
equator which divides the earth into two equal halves i.e. Northern and southern
hemisphere in 0° latitude. The Tropic of cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn passes
in 23.5°N and 23.5°S respectively. Another lines of 66.5°N and 66.5°S are called
Arctic circle and Antarctic circle in the northernmost part and the southern most
parts of the earth. These five lines of latitude are very important to locate the
important places of the world. These lines are shown in the figure.
111 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Longitude
Longitude is an angular distance of the earth drawn in the east or the west of the
prime meridian. Vertical lines are drawn in this angular distance. These vertical
lines are called lines of longitude. They are imaginary lines drawn to determine
the time of a place. There are meridians of longitude, 180° to the east and 180° to
the west of the prime meridian.
The prime meridian is an imaginary line drawn vertically from the North Pole to
South Pole at 0° longitude. It divides the earth into the eastern hemisphere and
the western hemisphere. It runs through Greenwich, England.
The earth rotates one degree longitude in every four minutes.
1° = 4 minutes
15° = 1 hour
The point in which 180° of the eastern hemisphere and 180° of the western
hemisphere meet, such lines are called International Date Line (IDL). It is drawn
zigzag to minimize the complication seen in time in the same territory.
Uses of Latitudes and Longitudes
latitude longitude
• To find the distance of a place in • To find the distance of a place
the south or north from the equator in the east and west from the
• To know the climate of a place prime meridian
• To calculate the length of day and • To find the local time of a place
night • To determine the world time
• To find the distance of a place standard time and local time
[1° latitude= 111 km] The standard time of Nepal is
measured from Gauri Shankar
• To divide their earth into three Himal, it is located at 86°15'
climate zones-tropical, Temperate east longitude.
and Frizids
Key Words
angular distance : the angular separation between two objects
frizid : freezed, covered with snow
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 112
Draw the figure of latitude and name the important lines with
Activity their degree.
Exercise
I. Fill in the blanks and name the important lines with their degree.
1. The 0° latitude is called the ___________.
2. ________ and longitudes are imaginary lines.
3. Altogether there are _____ longitudinal lines.
4. The time difference in one degree longitude is ________.
5. The standard time of Nepal is determined from _______.
II. Answer the following questions:
1. Define latitude and longitude.
2. Write short notes on:
a. Equator
b. Prime meridian
c. Tropic of Cancer
d. Antarctic circle and
e. Polar Zone
3. Make a list of uses of lines of latitude and longitude.
4. What is the IDL? What is the importance of IDL.
5. 'International Date Line is drawn Zigzag'. Give reasons.
Community Work
Find out the appropriate longitude and latitude of your place.
113 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Lesson Topography of the Earth and Its
5.2
Changes
The coldest spot of the Earth is Antartica's Vostok
FACTS station that recorded a bone chilling -89.2°C
to Understand
The surface of the earth is irregular or uneven. There are various shapes and
forms, many features of land i.e. plains, hills, mountains, plateaus, valleys, tars,
basins, peaks, passes, gorge, basin, desert, sea, oceans, etc. The description of
such uneven or irregular feature of land is called topography. The shape and
structure of the earth's surface due to variation in elevation of the ground is called
the relief features.
There are mainly two types of agents which bring changes on the surface of
the earth and forms different type of relief features. The internal elements like
earthquake, volcano and tsunami, etc. can change the earth's surface suddenly.
Changes bring by external agent is very slow but continuous. Millions of years
ago there was a big sea called Tethys, on the same place where the mountains lie
today. The elements or agents that bring changes on the earth's surface are given
below:
Elements
External Elements Internal Element
1. Sun 1. Earthquake
2. Wind 2. Volcano
3. Rain 3. Tsunami
4. River 4. Underground water
5. Frost
6. Plants and animals
7. Temperature (heat/cold)
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 114
External Elements
Rivers, wind, glaciers, temperature, etc. are the external elements or the factor
that change the surface of the earth.
1. River
A water body that usually
originates from mountain and
flows to the seas and oceans is
known as the river. While flowing
down it cuts its banks or sweeps
away the top soil and sub-soil
and deposit in the lower course.
Due to the deposition of eroded
materials in the Terai the plain
land has become more fertile. It
forms various land features like
oxbow lakes, tributaries, delta, Tamor river
gorge, etc.
2. Wind
Wind is a moving air. It
is one of external forces that
change the surface of the earth.
It is lightly effective in deserts
or in open area. Wind creates
many unique features by its
action of erosion, transportation
and deposition. Some of the
examples are sanddunes, Gara moving air
or mushroom rock, etc.
3. Glacier
Glacier is a thick mass of ice
moving downhill the mountain.
Glacier brings noticeable
changes on the earth's surface.
When snow receives heat of the
sun it melts little and moves
very slowly, hardly 1 or 2 cm in
a day. It carries pebbles sand
soil, etc. while moving downhill.
glacier
115 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
These materials are collectively known as moraine. Glaciers usually move along
the pre-existing valley. So, if glaciers move along a V-shaped valley, a U-shaped
valley is formed due to the erosion of the moraines.
4. Temperature
During the day the temperature rises up and goes down during the night.
This heat and cold results in expansion and contraction. This continuous process
even breaks the hard rocks into tiny pieces resulting in the change of earth's
surface. Due to continuous Contraction and expansion it causes soil erosion,
landslide, create sand, etc.
Internal Elements
Earthquake and volcanoes are the major internal elements that bring change on
the surface of the earth.
1. Earthquake
A sudden shaking of
the earth is due to some
natural forces. The changes
are seen on the surface
of the earth due to the
movement of Tectonic plates
inside the earth's crust.
The movement of tectonic
plates create seismic waves
which causes shaking
of the earth is known as
earthquake. There are two
type of shaking, vertical
and horizontal. Horizontal
shaking is more violent earthquake
than vertical. The point
earthquake is called focus or hypocentre. The point exactly above the hypocentre
where the first tremor is felt is called epicentre. Earthquake is measured by the
instrument called seismography and the measuring unit is called Richter Scale.
Earthquake itself does not kill people but destruction caused by the infrastructure
made by human. When it starts shaking weak infrastructures collapsed. Due to
horizontal or vertical movement layers of the rocks folders, pushed up, pressed
down formed fold mountains or deep valleys Example of Fold Mountain are the
Himalayans, the Alps, the Rockies and the Andes.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 116
2. Volcanoes
Volcanoes is the hot molten materials come out from the core of the earth via
crater in form of lava with great force. When volcano erupts, earth starts shaking.
There are three types of volcano, active volcano which erupts frequently, Dormant
Volcano which erupts in a long gap and Extinct Volcano which uses to erupt in
part but stopped now completely. Lava deposited after volcanic eruption form
elevated land and hills. Some of the volcanic mountains are Mt. Kilomanjaro,
Mt. Fuji, etc.
volcano erupt
Key Words
crater : opening holes of volcanic
elevation : height, altitude
plateau : an elevated land with flat top
tributary rivulets, small rivers mixed with the big rivers.
Draw pictures of internal elements and paste it in display board.
Activity
117 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Exercise
I. Match the column A with column B.
Sanddunes
Cliff
Volcano
Oxbow lake
Mushroom rock
II. Answer the following questions:
1. What is topography?
2. Mention the types elements that bring changes in the earth's surface.
3. The surface of the earth is ever changing. Justify this statement with
examples.
4. Which agent is responsible to form sand-dunes?
5. What is volcano? What are the types of volcanoes? Name them.
Community Work
Observe the land form of your locality and make a list and find out the agents that
change the land form of your locality. Prepare a report and present it in your class.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 118
Lesson Nepal: Physical Features and
5.3
Socio-Economic Condition
Mt Everest is the highest peak of the world with 8848 m height,
FACTS Tilicho lake is the highest lake on the earth of 4800 m height,
to Understand the Kali Gandaki is the deepest gorge of 1200 m, Arun valley is
the deepest valley on the Earth and Shey Phoksundo lake is the
deepest lake of 145 m depth at the height of 3611.5 m above the
sea level. These made the profile a small country very high.
Nepal is a mountainous country. About 83 percent of its total land areas is covered
by mountains and hills and only 17 percent of land is plain. There is remarkable
variation in the land structure from the north to the south of Nepal. Physically, it
is divided into three features:
i) Mountain ii) Hill iii) Terai
Let us discuss these physical divisions in detail.
1. Mountain Region
The mountain region is located in the northernmost part of the country.
This region ranges between 4700 m to 8848 m above the sea level. It occupies
about 15% of total land area of the country. The land above 5000 m is covered
with snow throughout the year. There are many mountains or peaks that lie in
this region including Mt. Everest, the highest peak, the Kanchanjunga, Makalu,
Dhaulagiri, Gaurishankar, Kanjiroba, etc. Manang and Mustang are located in
rain shadow area. So, they are called the desert of Nepal.
Climate and Vegetation
This region experience extremely cold climate. Most of the parts of this region is
covered with snow. So, it is not suitable for cultivation and human settlement.
These mountain vegetation include coniferous forest in the foothills of the
Himalayas and Tundra vegetation in the northern part. Only mosses and lichens
are found in the northernmost part.
Social Life
This region is inhabited by Bhotes, Sherpas and Thakalis. Due to very cold climate
people wear Bakkhu, Docha, Cap and warm woollen clothes. Men also keep long
119 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
hair and wear ornaments. People in the mountain region follow Buddhism. They
celebrate Lhosar, Buddha Jayanti, Oso and Dumji. They prepare special tea called
Suza. The staple food is Dhindo and potato. They build stone house.
Economic Life
The topography of the mountainous region is very formidable. The climatic
condition is also not favourable for human settlement and cultivation. In the
lower part of this region horticulture can be practiced. Fruits like apple is grown
and potato, millet, barley are cultivated. People are mostly engaged in tourism
and agriculture sectors too.
2. Hilly Region
The hilly region is situated between the mountain region and the Terai
region. It covers about 68 percent of the total land area of Nepal. This region
ranges between 600 m to 4700 m above the sea level. This region is comprised of
gentle hills, valleys, basins, Tars and slopes. During monsoon, soil erosion and
landslide is common in this region. Altogether 39 districts are located here.
Climate and Vegetation
The hilly region experiences moderate type of climate, which is neither too hot nor
too cold. Deciduous forest is grown in the region.
Social Life
People of different castes like the Brahmins, the Chhetris, the Rais, the Limbus,
the Gurungs, the Newars, the Magars, the Tamangs live in the hilly region. They
wear clothes according to the season. The traditional dresses like Daura, Suruwal,
Gunyau, Cholo, Patuko, Majetro. Ghalek, Hakupatasi, etc. are also worn in this
region. People living in urban areas have more influences of western culture,
so they like to wear pants, shirt, etc. Hinduism and Buddhism are the major
religion but Christianity, Islam, Jainism, Sikhism, Kirants are some followed
by the people living in this region. They celebrate Dashain, Tihar, Teej, Makar
Sankranti, Janai Purnima, Udhauli-Ubhauli, Christmas, EId-ul-Fitr, Buddha,
Jayanti, Lhosar, etc.
People in rural areas build mud houses but in urban areas there are big building
made to live.
Economic Life
Agriculture is the main occupation of the people. Both the food crops and cash
crops are grown in this region. Potato, maize, millet, paddy, cardamom, ginger,
orange, etc. are cultivated in this region. Kathmandu, the capital city with only
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 120
one international airport is located here. Despite agriculture people are engaged
in tourism, industries and services sectors too.
3. The Terai Region
The plain area in the Southern region of Nepal is called the Terai region.
This region ranges between 59 m to 600m above the sea level. It occupies about
17 percent of total land area of the country. This region is also called 'Madhesh by
local people. The plain land between the Chure range and the Mahabharat range
is called the Inner Terai or Bhitri Madhesh.
Climate and Vegetation
Altitude of this region is almost low. So, the climate is hot in the Terai. The
western the Terai has extreme temperature because of scanty rainfall due to the
greater distances from the sea. The westerlies wind carries moisture during the
winter season and it occurs precipitation. The soil is very fertile due to the alluvial
deposition. Evergreen sub-tropical forest is found in this region. Altogether 20
districts lie in this region.
Social Life
The Terai is originally inhabited by the Tharus, the Satars, the Rajbanshis, the
Mushahars, the Dhimals, the Yadavs, the Jhas, the Rayas, etc. Comfortable land
features and facilities attracted many people to migrate in the Terai. Therefore
many other caste are living in the Terai mostly people follow Hinduism. Islam
religion is followed in different parts of Terai region. People celebrate different
festivals, such as Dashain, Tihar, Chhath, Holi, Eid and Maghi. Summer is very
hot and winter is warm. So, people wear light cotton clothes and they eat light
food.
Economic Life
Agriculture is the main occupation of the people of the Terai. This region produces
food crops and cash crops and supply to the various parts of the country. Therefore,
it is called the "Granary of Nepal". Other occupations are cattle rearing, trade,
industry, services, etc. Many agro based industries are established in the Terai.
Key Words
agro based : industry draw raw materials from agriculture
formidable : difficult, unwanted
121 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Draw a map of Nepal and separate the three physical regions, the
Activity mountains, hills and the Terai.
Exercise
I. Complete the following table.
Regions Ethnic language Religion/ Occupations major crops
groups or festivals
caste
Mountain
Hills
Terai
II. Answer the following questions:
a. Name the physical division of Nepal.
b. Why is the Terai more fertile than the other regions?
c. List four major characteristics that differentiates the Terai and Hilly
region.
d. Explain the socio-economic condition of the Himalayan region.
e. Among the three physical regions which region is economically strong?
f. Explain the following term:
i. Topography
ii. Relief
Community Work
Visit your community and find out the people of different castes living there. Collect
the information about their religion, language, festivals and occupation they follow.
Prepare a chart and present it to your teacher.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 122
Lesson Map Work
5.4
A general map of the world by Samuel Dunn a British
FACTS mathematician who died in 1794 containing star chart
to Understand map of the solar system, map of the moon and other
features along with both Earth's hemispheres.
Source: wikipedia
Map is the representation of the earth or a certain part of it in a reduced scale
rd
drawn on a flat surface or piece of paper. User of maps began in 3 century B.C
appropriately. Today it has become very important and the basic requirement for
tourism and many other sectors.
Map is broadly divided into two categories physical map and political map.
Physical map shows the physical features, relief features, natural resources, etc.
and political map shows political division and human-made structures.
Basic Things in a map
There are four basic things required to include mandatorily in a map. They are
1. Title: It gives information about the map.
2. Symbols: It explains through the representation of sign, shading with
different colours used in a map.
3. Direction Arrow: It shows the direction shown by an arrow or a compass.
4. Scale: A scale represents the proportion of distance and the size of a map.
123 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Some common symbols used in a map
Lake Capital City
River Bridge
Mountain range Pass
Peak Temple
Roadway Forest
Airway School
Railway University
Ropeway Hospital
Production Area International Border
Town Village
To draw map of Nepal
4 cm 6 cm 6 cm 4 cm
4 cm
4 cm
4 cm
1. Draw a rectangle of 20 cm length and 12 cm breadth to draw a full page
map of Nepal. Divide the length into 4 parts (4 cm, 6 cm, 6 cm and 4 cm and
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 124
breadth into 3 parts (4 cm, 4 cm, 4 cm)
2. Keep scale as 1 cm = 40 km
3. Keep title and show direction in the map.
4. Now draw the map of Nepal carefully.
5. Make an index below the map.
Key Words
representation : depiction
Draw a full page map of Nepal and insert the following facts.
Activity Mt. Makalu Mt. Everest
Rara lake Chitwan National Park
Fewa lake Bardiya National park
Muktinath temple Bagmati River
Deuti Bajai Babai River
Prithivi Highway Lumbini
Exercise
I. Draw the map of province in which you are living and insert any four major facts
in it.
II. Answer the following questions:
1. What is a map? What are the types of a map? Name them
2. Write the importance of a map.
3. What do you know about scale in a map? Why is it used? Write.
4. What are the basic things required to include on a map?
Community Work
Draw a map of your community and insert any five facts in it, for example, hospital
schools, historical places, etc.
125 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Lesson Climate Change and Its Effects
5. 5
According to the Pollution Index 2016 Kathmandu is the
FACTS fourth topmost polluted city in the world and second
to Understand top most polluted city in Asia with 96.38 Pollution Index
score.
Climate refers to the average weather condition of a certain place over a period of
time. The main elements of climate are temperature and precipitation. Climate
remains constant for a considerable period of time whereas weather changes
frequently, for example, if it is sunny in the morning, then it can be raining in the
afternoon and cloudy in the evening. This is called weather. Climate remains for
a long period.
At present, climate is changing fast because of rising of temperature, increasing
of greenhouse gases (CFC gases), because of smoke released from factories,
industries, vehicles, houses, etc.
The significant change in the average weather in due course of time on the earth
or in any parts of it due to the irregularity in atmospheric temperature, wind,
rainfall, etc. is called climate change. This is mainly due to the rise in temperature
of the atmosphere. It causes negative effects in the atmosphere due to the excessive
use of petroleum products, coal, chemicals, firewood, etc.
Many greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, nitrogen, methane, sulphur dioxide,
chlorofluro carbon, etc. emitted from the industries can trap the heat from the
sun. All these gases form a layer in the atmosphere which absorbs more heat.
This results in the rise in temperature worldwide. This is called global warming.
The global warming causes adverse effects in the form of irregular and unusual
rainfall, melting snow and rising coastline.
The greenhouse effect is the trapping of heat in the earth's atmosphere. It raises
the temperature of the atmosphere because the heat that comes through sun rays
in the earth's surface cannot reflect as it is absorbed by greenhouse gases.
Effects of Climate Change
The effect of climate change is seen everywhere. Nepal is also not away from the
effect of climate change. The temperature of Nepal is also increasing gradually.
There is not much cold in winter as it used to be in the past and number of
mosquitoes also increased. Some of the various impacts of climate change are
given below:
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 126
Irregularity in precipitation
Natural life cycle is disturbed
Causes flood, landslide and soil erosion.
Melting of snow causes rising up of water level which will endanger the
coastal areas and islands to submerge under water.
Untimely ripening of seasonal fruits and blooming flowers
Destruction of biodiversity
Desertification, cause forest fire, etc.
Climate change is the burning issues and serious threat to the world. Therefore
many developed countries are showing concerned to minimize the effect of climate
change. Some of the efforts are given below:
1. UN conference on climate change, 2010 was organized in Mexico.
2. The 15th UN conference on climate change was held in Copenhagen on
December 7 to 18, 2009.
3. Nepal Ministerial Meeting was organized at the Base camp of Sagarmatha-
Kalapathar in 2009.
4. The underwater Cabinet Meeting, 2009 in the Maldives
5. The UN Climate Change Conference COP 17 was held in Durban, South
th
America from 28 November to 9 December 2011. Similarly, it organized
th
summits on 2012 in Doha, Qatar, 2013 in Warsaw, Poland, 2014 June, Lema,
Peru, 2015 in Paris, France and expected to be held in 7-18 November, 2016
in Marrakech, Morocco,
Climate change can bring vulnerable situation so it is a global
concern. It is alarming to the least developed agricultural countries,
mountainous regions, coastal regions islands and low lying areas. So,
there have been collective efforts on national and international levels
to mitigate their problems. The Mexico conference in 2010 AD has
established a Green Climate Fund which has established to collect one
hundred million dollars every year till 2020 AD to control the effects of
climate change on poor countries is the main objective for raising fund.
Measures to control the effects of climate change
Reducing the use of coal, firewood and petroleum products
Generate hydro electricity and encourage people to use alternative source of
energy like solar energy, wind energy, biogas, etc.
Minimize the use of materials which emit CFC gases.
Encourage afforestation to conserve biodiversity.
127 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Key Words
endanger : put a risk
mitigate : reduce
submerge : to go under the surface of water
Activity Draw a picture which shows greenhouse effects on the earth.
Exercise
1. Match the column A with column B:
Column A Column B
Greenhouse gases the Maldives
Cop 17 Kalapathar, Sagarmatha base camp
Underwater cabinet meeting unusual rainfall
Nepal Ministerial Meeting CFC gases
Climate change Durban, South America
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 128
2. Answer the following questions:
a. What is climate change? Write the causes of climate change.
b. What is greenhouse effect? Explain.
c. Make a list of adverse effects of climate change on living beings. Write
any six effects.
d. Why is climate change a serious threat to the least developed countries
practicing agriculture as their main occupation, mountain region,
island and low lying countries.
e. Write any six measures to mitigate global warming.
Community Work
Ask to the local people of your community about their experience on climate
change. Make a list and present in your class.
Project Work
Make a PowerPoint presentation on climate changes, its cause, effects and
solutions to get rid of the problem.
129 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Lesson Disaster Management
5.6
We cannot stop natural disasters but we can arm
FACTS ourselves with knowledge: so, many lives wouldn't have
to Understand to be lost if there was enough disaster preparedness.
Disaster is a sudden calamitous event bringing great damage, loss or destruction.
According to the UN, disaster is a serious disruption of functioning of community
or a society causing widespread human materials, economic or environmental loss
which exceeds the ability of the affected community or society to cope up using
own resources. It is very unexpected and unpredicted which causes heavy loss of
life and properties as well as environmental destruction. Disaster brings grief,
pain and sorrow.
Broadly, disaster can be categorized into two types; natural and man-made. Wars,
terrorist attacks, plane crash, epidemics, accidents are some man-made cause
of disaster. Earthquake, volcanic eruption, landslide, flood, forest fire, storm,
Tsunami, etc. are natural disaster. An effect of disaster is seen more where
there is poverty, illiteracy and unawareness. An Earthquake, volcano eruption,
Tsunami are caused completely by nature. There is no any connection between
human activities and these natural disasters. Whatever the disaster may be,
they bring destruction, pain and difficulties for the survival. Therefore, possible
preservations are to be taken to be safe and minimize the casualties and loss.
Disaster Management and Its Importance
An effort to minimize the effects of disaster is called disaster management. It
refers to the activities which are carefully handled or carried out before and
after the occurrence of a disaster. The aspect of disaster management is to take
prevention or the measures that can be adopted to decrease the effect of disaster
and the management after disaster like to rescue the victim, provide food clothing
and shelter to the victims, etc.
Many human resources, materials and requirement are required to manage
disaster. Haphazard and panic movement can bring more difficult situation. Rescue
and relief of victims, wounded, injured and dead bodies will be challenging. In this
situation alive people are saved first and taken to the hospital or first aid treatment
is given then only dead bodies of men and animals are taken. There is high chances
of spreading of epidemics if dead bodies are not completely taken out and disposed.
If there is systematic management we can minimize its effects. Although it is
challenging but if we prepare well and behave carefully then destruction can be
minimized. Some of the preventive measures are discussed below:
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 130
Do not panic and run. Try to go to the safe place.
Production of destructive weapons have to be stopped.
Be alert all the time.
Keep emergency kit ready nearly exit of your house.
Make surroundings clean and develop hygienic habit to be safe from
epidemics.
Government agencies, security forces, clubs, social organization should be
immediately informed of the disaster.
Volunteers should be mobilized for the relief operation.
Food, shelter, clean drinking water, medicines should be managed by rescue
team immediately.
If management is proper and systematic the effect of disaster can be reduced.
NCDM on Disaster Management.
Nepal Centre for Disaster Management (NCDM) was established in February
2002 with an aim to help effectively mitigate the impact of disasters in Nepal.
The objectives of NCDM are as follows:
Carry out study, research, survey and other related activities for disaster
mitigation and preparedness.
Organize trainings, seminars, etc. at national and international level on
Disaster Risk Mitigation and Management.
Organize Community level programmes to enhance their coping capacity
against disaster.
Play an active role to assist the government in providing immediate rescue,
relief and rehabilitation to the victims of disaster.
Work for protection of environment in order to mitigate natural disasters
particularly for flood and landslides.
Key Words
epidemics : fast spreading disease
rescue : saving from danger
dispose : arrange or deal with
haphazard : not organized well
storm : very bad weather with strong winds and rains
131 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Prepare an emergency kit for disastrous situation. Make a list of
Activity things that have kept in a bag and show it to your teacher.
Exercise
I. State whether the statement is true or false.
1. Disaster is a good result of any natural and man-made incidents.
2. Disaster brings sudden destruction.
3. Natural disaster cannot be controlled only reduced.
4. Lack of awareness is one of the major causes of epidemics in
Nepal.
5. Road accidents are very common in Nepal.
II. Answer the following questions:
1. What is Disaster?
2. Disaster brings grief, pain, sorrow as well as epidemic. Justify the
statement.
3. What are the types of disaster? Explain them briefly.
4. What is disaster management. How does disaster management
minimize the casualties? Explain.
5. Write any five preventive measures of disaster.
Community Work
Visit your community and observe the type of disaster faced by community people.
What kinds of preventive measures are adopted? Find out and prepare a report and
submit it to your teacher.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 132
Lesson Europe: Its Geography and
5.7
Socio-economic Life
Europe is a home continent of the Greeks who founded
FACTS western civilization. Europeans developed, democracy,
to Understand philosophy, history, drama, medicine, Science, etc.
Political map of Europe
Location and Size
The sixth largest continent of the world is Europe. It is located in the northern
hemisphere. The longitudinal location of Europe is 35°N to 72°N and 24°W to
60° E. As it is situated completely in the northern hemisphere. So the climatic
zone extend from Temperate Zone to Frigid Zone. The Greenwich line separates
Europe into the eastern hemisphere and the western hemisphere. It has a total
area of 10,525,000 Sq. km. It has about 11% of world population. It is one of the
most developed continents of the world.
133 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Europe is surrounded by oceans and seas on three sides. They are the Arctic
Ocean in the north, the Atlantic Ocean in the west and the Mediterranean and
the Black Sea on the south. Asia and Europe are separated by Ural Mountain.
The continent is known as the peninsula of peninsulas. Europe is divided into
three physical regions based on its topography. They are:
1. The North Western Highland
It is also known as Scandinavian Highland which is extended across Iceland,
Norway Sweden, Finland, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. This Highland
is formed by very old hard rocks. It is one of the earth's earliest landforms.
2. The Great European Plain
The great European Plain lies between the Scandinavian Highland and the
Mediterranean Region. It extends from Atlantic coasts in the south – West to
the Ural Mountains in the north east. The European rivers are not very long but
they are highly navigable. Some famous rivers of Europe are the Danube, the the
Volaga, the Rhine, the Elbe, etc. The Volga and the Danube are two long rivers of
Europe.
3. The Southern Mountain and Plateaus
The southern mountains form the Alpine mountain system. This mountain
system includes ranges in the Italian and Balkan peninsula, northern Spain and
southern France. The region includes the Pyrenees (Spain), Apennines (Italy)
mountains of the Alps Maseta plateau (Spain and Portugal), the central plateau
(France), Dinaric Alps (Yugoslavia) and plateau of Bohemia.
4. Climate and Natural Vegetation
Most of the European part lies in the Temperate Zone, so that it experiences
temperate climate. The north-west highlands enjoy pleasant and cool climate.
It is cold in the north and warm in the South. Western Europe receives rainfall
throughout the year. The Mediterranean region receives winter rainfall which is
very good for cultivation. This region is very suitable for growing fruits. So this
region is called the garden of the world .
Tundra climate is found in Scandinavian region in which small mosses, lichens
and fern grow. The Reindeer feeds on these tiny plants.
The taiga is comprised of coniferous forest with trees like pine, fir and spruce.
Moose bear and elk are native to the European Taiga.
Steppes are a grassland found in the eastern part of Europe. There is hot in
summer and very cold in winter. Steppes are treeless grassland. The rainfall is
not sufficient here for the growth of trees.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 134
The western part of Europe is warm in summer and mild in winter. It receives
rainfall throughout the year due to the influence of seas and ocean. The countries
like Denmark, Norway, Sweden and the British Isles experience this climate.
Both coniferous and deciduous forests are grown in this region. Oak elm, etc. are
common deciduous trees found in this region.
Social life
Europe is densely populated continent and the birthplace of western civilization.
Today Europe is home to the people of Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and
Herzegovina, Albania, Italy, Norway, etc. All the European countries are
developed. Majority of the European people follow Christianity, Asian and African
people are permanently living in Europe. They celebrate very few festivals. They
are too much busy and do not have that much of time to celebrate festivals.
There are very good facilities in health and education. Nepal has developed
a very good diplomatic relationship with many countries. England is the first
country to develop diplomatic relations with Nepal. It is providing financial and
technological assistance, scholarship for the higher studies as well as employment
opportunities to the Nepali citizen.
Economic Activities
The economic activities of Europe is very strong and developed. Only about
10 percent of people are engaged in agriculture. As it receives winter rainfall
fruits are highly grown like lime, lemon, grapes, etc. Spain, Italy, France and
Greece produce large amount of fruits to make juice and wine and export to other
countries. The Mediterranean region has favourable climate to produce a large
variety of fruits. So it is called the garden of the world.
Other occupations followed by people are industries, trade, fishing, mining, etc.
which are highly developed in England, Spain, Germany, Italy, Norway, etc.
Transportation is highly developed. There is a Union of European countries called
European Union for harmonious and better economic development. They have
common currency called Euro ( ).
Key Words
coniferous : cone shaped tress grown in cold climate
deciduous : the tress that shade their leaves every year
frigid : ice covered area
peninsula : an area of land covered by water from three sides
135 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Exercise
I. Fill in the blanks with suitable words:
a. Europe is the …………..largest continent in the world.
b. The climate zone of Europe extends from …………..to zone.
c. Europe is surrounded by oceans and seas from …………..sides.
d. The north western highland is called ………………………..highland
e. Tundra climate is found in ………region
II. Answer the following questions:
1. Why is Europe called the Peninsula of Peninsulas?
2. Into how many parts is Europe divided physically? Name them and
explain briefly.
3. Name the famous rivers of Europe.
4. How is the socio-economic life of Europe?
5. Which European country is called the garden of the world, why?
Explain with suitable examples.
Community Work
What is the main occupation of the people living in your community? Visit any five
houses and collect the data of employed people as well as their nature of job
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 136
Lesson Australia: Its Geography and
5.8
Socio-economic Life
Over 200 different languages and dialects are spoken in
FACTS Australia including 45 indigenous languages, the most
to Understand common non-English spoken language are Italian, Greek,
Cantonese, Arabic, Vietnamese and Mandarin.
Australia is a country and continent as well. It is also called the young continent
because it was discovered in 1770 AD by an English geographical explorer. The
continent Australia is comprises of Australia, Tasmania, New Guinea, Serum
and New Zealand. It is the smallest of the seven continents. New Zealand and
Australia are both part of the wider regions known as Oceania. The term Oceania
is used to denote the region including Australian continent and various island in
the pacific ocean that are not included in the seven continent model.
It lies in the Southern Hemisphere between 12°E to 38°E latitudes and 114°E
to 154°E longitudes. Australia is bordered by the Timor and Australia Arafura
seas in the north, the coral sea in the north east, the Pacific Ocean, the Indian
Ocean in the South West. Its major cities are Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth,
137 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Adelaide. Its capital is Canberra.
The country is known for its Sydney Do You
Opera House, the Great Barrier Know Australia is the biggest
Reef a vast interior desert, the Great island and the smallest
Barrier Reef, a vast interior desert continent of the world.
Wilderness called the outback and
unique animal species like kangaroos and duck billed Platypuses.
Physical Features
Australia consists of three physical divisions:
1. The Western Plateau
It is a vast plateau of Australia and occupies two-third area of the continent.
The isolated mountain ranges rise above the general level in some places. Much of
the plateau is a desert.
2. The Central Low Land
It is a great stretch of low lying area that lie between the western plateau
and the eastern highland. The average elevation is 150 m. At Lake Eyre, it is
12m below sea level and this lake is a region of inland drainage. Murray Darling
Rivers flows through southern part of central lowlands. Owing to scanty rainfall,
much of lowland is dry. Due to tropical climate it is thinly populated.
3. The Eastern Highland
The eastern highlands lie parallel to the east coast of Australia. It is called
Great Dividing Range as it separates the river flowing west from those flowing
east. Its average height is 900m. Mt. Kosciusko 2,228m in South Wales is the
country's highest peak.
Climate and Natural
Vegetation
Australia's climate is variable. The
eastern, north eastern and south
western parts of the country come in the
way of winds blowing from the sea and
so it receives heavy rainfall. The eastern
highlands act as a great barrier to these
rain-bearing trade winds. The rainfall
decreases considerably towards the
kangaroo
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 138
west. The climate of Australia is opposite to Nepal. When it is summer in Nepal,
it is winter in Australia and vice versa.
Tropical Evergreen Vegetation is found in the northern part. The grassland is called
Down in the central lowland. Mediterranean vegetation including eucalyptus and
rubber trees is found in the south east and south-west corners and the western
plateau has desert vegetation. The kangaroo is the unique and the most popular
animal and it is found only in Australia. It is the national animal of Australia.
Economic Activities
Australia is a economically prosperous and developed continent. The major
economic activities are sheep farming, agriculture, mining, industries and
tourism. Iron and steel, aluminium, motor vehicles and ship building are the
major industries of Australia. It is rich in natural resources and minerals. Coal,
gold, iron-ore, etc. are well organized. Kalgoorlie and Coolgardie are the world
famous gold mines found in the western desert. Australia produces 30% of wool of
the world. Wheat is famous crop and paddy is grown in the irrigated area in the
north and the south of Australia.
Social Life
Most of the Australians are British origins. The south east coast is densely
populated because of favourable climate. The western part is uninhabited due to
the desert area and north coast is thinly populated due to the hot tropical climate.
The aborigines of Australia have primitive lifestyle. Most of the people follow
Christianity.
Nepal has good relations with Australia and New Zealand. Nepalese are
getting higher education and employment opportunities. There is an important
contribution of Australia particularly in conservation and uses of forest resources.
Key Words
aborigine : an original inhabitant of Australia
uninhabited : without population
139 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Show the following facts in the map of Australia.
Activity Great Dividing Range, Australian Desert, Murray Darling River,
Tasmania Island, Australian Bight, Gulf Carpentaria Adelaide,
Tropic of Capricorn, Gold Mining Area, Great Barrier Reef
Exercise
I. Fill in the blanks with suitable words:
1. The capital city of Australia is ________.
2. The Down is the _____________ of Australia.
3. Australia is also called __________.
4. _____________ is also called ____________.
5. Most of the Australian follows ______________ religions.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 140
II. Answer the following questions:
1. Into how many geographical regions is Australia divided?
2. Write the geographical location of Australia and write their economic
activities.
3. Explain the climate and natural vegetation found in Australia.
4. How is the economic status of Australian people? Describe briefly.
Community Work
Find out the people in your community who have visited Australia. Ask them about
the physical features, socio-economic condition of Australia and compare with
Nepal. Present the report to your teacher.
Project Work
Download the documentary using the internet about Australia and present it in
your class.
141 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Review Questions
1. Give brief introduction of Latitude and Longitude with a labelled diagram.
2. What are five important lines of Latitude?
3. Explain the three physical regions of Nepal.
4. What are the social activities performed in the Himalayan, the Hilly and the Terai
region of Nepal? Explain in details.
5. What is the main economic activity of the Nepalese people?
6. Why do people go abroad? Mention the purposes.
7. What do you mean by cartography?
8. What are the symbols that are used to denote:
a. Ropeways
b. National park
9. What cause change in climate change.
10. In what ways can the effects of climate change be resolved?
11. What is disaster? What are the types of disaster?
12. What is the importance of disaster management?
13. What happens when conflicts arise?
14. What are the social and economic condition of European people?
15. Why is Australian Continent called as Oceania? Explain the physical features of
Oceania briefly.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 142
Unit
6 OUR PAST
Learning Outcomes of the Unit
The competencies of the social studies curriculum in
the unit are to enable students to:
UNIT CONTENTS
6.1 An Introduction of explain the Medieval Period of Nepal
Medieval Nepal 144 describe the political and socio-economic condition
6.2 Political Condition of of Medieval Period
Medieval Nepal 147 understand the details about 22 and 24 states of
6.3 The Socio-economic Condition Nepal
of Medieval Nepal 149 learn the art, culture and traditions of the Medieval
6.4 Art and culture of Period
Medieval Nepal 153 describe about the Hwang-Ho Valley Civilization and
6.5 The Hwang-Ho Valley the Mesopotamian civilization
Civilization 155
6.6 Mesopotamian Civilization 158
Review Questions 162
143 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Lesson An Introduction of Medieval Nepal
6.1
The Malla rulers had to cope with several disasters.
FACTS In 1255 AD one-third of the population of Kathmandu
to Understand (30,000 people including King Abhaya Malla) were killed
when valley suffered an earthquake with the epicentre
right below the city.
Nepal's history is divided into three main periods: Ancient period, Medieval Period
and Modern period.
In grade 6, you had learnt about ancient period till the Lichchhavi Dynasty.
Now, in grade 7 you are going to learn about the rise of Mallas to the victory of
Prithivi Narayan Shah over the Kathmandu valley.
Ruling period of Prithivi Narayan and his Unification Campaign is included in
modern period. Medieval Period approximately begins in BS 1258 and ends in
BS 1825. In this period there were three kingdoms existed in Nepal. They were
Mithila or Tirahut in the South, Nepal Mandal in the Kathmandu valley and
Khas Kingdom in the west.
Simrounagadh State
This state was founded by Nanya Dev who belonged to the Chalukya Dynasty of
Karnataka India. He conquered the south-eastern part of Nepal and established
this state in BS 1154. This state was also called Tirahut or the Doya or Mithila
State. Simrounagadh was its capital. Now, it lies in Bara district. It extended
from the Terai regions of Nepal up to Northern Bihar. It was very powerful and
advanced in art and culture. Harisimha Dev was the last ruler. In 1326 the Sultan
of Delhi Gayasuddin Tuglak invaded and merged it into his kingdom.
Kathmandu Valley (Nepal Mandal)
The three Malla Kingdoms were collectively known as the Nepal Mandal. They
were Kantipur, Patan and Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon). The Valley Kingdoms were
very powerful. Ari Malla was the founder of the Malla Dynasty, he ruled for 15
years from BS 1258 to BS 1273. After him, his son Abhaya Malla ruled for 39
years. He encouraged people to read, write and also inspired people in art and
culture. Yaksha Malla was so powerful and interested in art and culture. There
was a single kingdom in the valley. It was extended up to Bhot in the North
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 144
and Tirahut(Mithila) in the South. After him the kingdom was separated into
his sons and daughter. Ratna Malla got Kantipur, Raya Malla got Bhaktapur or
Bhadgaon, Rana Malla got Banepa. His daughter got Patan. In this way there
were separate rules in the valley kingdom. Despite they belonged to same clan
there was no mutual love and cooperation. So, they became weak and Prithivi
Narayan Shah captured the Kathmandu valley.
Kathmandu Valley (Nepal Mandal)
Sen Kingdom
Rudra Sen was the founder of the Sen Dynasty. His son Mukunda Sen extended
th
Sen Kingdom around the middle of the 16 century up to the eastern and central
part of Nepal. After his death Sen State was divided into Makwanpur, Vijayapur
and Chaudandi. After the division of Sen kingdoms, it became weaker. There was
hatred, fear of losing kingdom, conspiracy between the kingdoms. So, there was no
feeling of nationality and the kingdoms were fragmented into many smaller states.
Baise and Chaubise States
Baise and Chaubise states emerged after the dissolution of Khas kingdom in
BS 1506. The Khas kingdom in the Sinja valley of the Karnali Region was very
powerful. Nagraj was the founder of Khas kingdom. It extended up to the Trishuli
river in the east, Kumau Gadhwal in the west, Mansarowar in the north and
Bodhgaya in the south. After Nagraj many other kings changed his surname and
kept as Malla. There were 22 states in the Karnali region and 24 states in the
Gandaki region. They were called as Baise Rajya and Chaubise Rajya respectively.
Among the Baise Rajya, Jumla and among the Chaubise Rajya, Palpa was more
power state.
145 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Key Words
approximately : not sure
dynasty : regime, empire
invade : attach
Suggest any two major plans to the rules to make Nepal competent,
Activity strong and united while binding Nepalese people emotionally.
Exercise
I. Fill in the blanks with suitable words:
1. History of Nepal is divided into______ parts.
2. _________ State was founded by Nanya Dev.
3. ___________ State was also called Tirahut state.
4. Abhaya Malla ruled for ______ years.
5. After _____________ the Sen kingdom was divided into Makwanpur,
Chaudandi and Vijayapur.
I. Fill in the blanks with suitable words:
1. Into how many parts is Nepal's history divided?
2. How was Simraunagadh state established? Describe in detail.
3. After whose period the Kathmandu valley was divided? Name the
different states.
4. Who established the Sen kingdom? How did it came to an end?
5. How did the Malla Period come to an end? Explain.
Community Work
Visit any historical place nearly your locality and find out the important of the place
and make a report and present it in your classroom.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 146
Lesson Political Condition of Medieval Nepal
6.2
The Malla dynasty ruled the Kathmandu valley until
FACTS Prithivi Narayan Shah of the Gorkha kingdom invaded it
to Understand in 1825 BS. The last ruler of Malla Dynasties were Jaya
Prakash Malla of Kantipur, Tej Narsingh Malla of Patan
and Ranajit Malla of Bhaktapur.
The Malla dynasty was a ruling dynasty of medieval Nepal. During their reign
people in the Kathmandu valley were called the Newar. Other dynasties such as
the Khas, the Sens were rulers outside the valley during the Medieval Period.
The three valley kingdoms were collectively known as Nepal Mandal ruled by
Mallas. Similarly, Thakuri, Challa kings ruled in the Karnali region who later on
changed their surname to Malla. The king Ashoka Chaula started using Malla
as his surname. Nanya Dev was the ruler of Simrounagadh in Southern Nepal.
Palpa was founded by Rudra Sen. His son Mukunda Sen was a great sage. So,
he was called as Muni Mukunda Sen. His three sons divided Palpa State into
Makwanpur, Vijayapur and Chaudandi and started ruling. There were Limbuwan
and Khumbuwan to the north of the Sen kingdom. The Karnali region was
divided into 22 small kingdoms like Jumla, Rukum, Jajarkot, Salyan, Surkhet,
etc. Commonly they were called as the Baise Rajya. The Gandaki region was
also divided into 24 small kingdoms called Chaubise Rajya. There were 24 small
kingdoms like Gorkha, Kaski, Lamjung, Parbat, Palpa, etc. They were ruled by
different clans. In this way medieval Nepal was fragmented into 52 kingdoms.
The ruling system
The kings used to be the supreme authority. They were the head of judiciary,
administration and army. Usually five members consist in the Council of Ministers
to ruled. In the Council of Minister, Chautaria was chief Minister, Pradhan, Chief
Administrator were to support local administration and construct temples bridges,
inns, paths, etc. Cities were divided into these for efficient administrative purpose.
There were altogether 24 Toles in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Lalitpur. These
Toles were looked after by Pradhans. Judicials system was based on religions and
traditions.
147 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
Key Words
fragmented : divided
efficient : able, capable
Draw and sketch of historical monuments made during the Malla
Activity Period and discuss its importance.
Exercise
I. Fill the following sentence whether true or false.
1. The Malla Period started from Ari Malla.
2. The three valley kingdoms were collectively known as Nepal
Mandal.
3. There were Limbuwan and Khumbuwan South to the Sen kingdoms.
4. There were 22 small states in the Karnali region.
5. Pradhans looked after the judiciary during the Medieval Period.
II. Answer the following questions:
1. What do you mean by Baise and Chaubise Rajya?
2. What were the major states during the Medieval Period?
3. How many states were created in the Kathmandu valley after the
death of Yakshya Malla?
4. How was the ruling system of the Medieval Period? Explain briefly.
5. 'There were no feelings of nationality during Medieval Periods''
Explain.
Community Work
Meet a politically active person of your community and ask him about the role of
people in active governing system of a country. Prepare a report and present it in
the classroom.
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 148
Lesson The Socio-economic Condition of
6.3
Medieval Nepal
The medieval people were the famous features of
FACTS extreme religiosity, mystic, saints, the mass pilgrimage
to Understand and so on. They believed the world was flat.
Patan durbar square (Medieval Nepal)
The medieval society started many things during that period. Such as trend
of keeping surnames naming the lineage, Dolaji system, widow remarriage,
celebration during festivals also started. Some of the major social structures of
the Medieval Period are given below:
Joint Family
There was joint family system during Medieval Period. A family consisting of
many generations living together in the same home, sharing the same kitchen
149 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII
and all bound by the common relationship like Grandparents, parents uncle aunt
niece, nephew, son, daughter, grand children, etc. Therefore settlement of people
in this joint family was social security to perform religious activities and economic
assistance.
Naming the Lineage
The Malla rulers introduced themselves as Suryavanshi and Shah rulers called
themselves as Chandravanshi. In this way lineage began in Medieval Period.
The Caste System
The division of caste system began in the Lichchhavi period. The society was
divided into four castes and eighteen sub-castes. It was not much scientific. So,
further division of caste system was made into four castes and thirty-six sub-
castes.
Origin of Surname
The caste of the people was divided for work division. The trend of keeping surname
started on the basis of place, occupation, lineage, etc. for example Bhandari (store
keeper), Poudel (Paudi, name of a place), Shrestha (high ranked officer), Baidya
(doctors), Mahat (Prime Minister), Acharya (Masters Degree holder), etc.
Dolaji System
In the Medieval Period there was a trend to take bridegroom to the bride's home
after marriage. The bridegroom had to adopt the surname of the bride. It is called
Dolaji System. The renowned Malla king Jayasthili Malla adopted the title Malla
after getting marriage with princess Rajalla Devi Malla. Similarly after Pal
dynasty prince Punya Pal got married with princess Shakun Malla of Karnali
region, he adopted the title Malla and became Punya Malla.
Widow Re-marriage
Widow-marriage and re-marriage are accepted in this period. There was polygamy
system. So, the kings had many queens and in case of the death of the king queens
became widows. So, widow re-marriage system practiced. This shows that women
were highly respected in the society. Nayak Devi was the daughter of the king
of Bhaktapur, Rudra Malla, married to Prince Harischandra of Kaski. After the
death of her husband she was remarried to Prince Jagat Singh Kumhar of Tirahut.
Culture and Festivals
Many festivals started celebrating since the Medieval Period. It was rich in
culture and festivals. People of different castes and tribes observed their own
cultures and festivals some customs like Aashouch and Sutak which came from
Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII 150
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