Revised Subharmbha social 7 2077 for CTP final

Approved by Ministry of Education, Curriculum Development Centre (CDC) Sanothimi, Bhaktapur, Nepal

Social Studies &
Population Education

Grade
7

Authors

Yogendra Bahadur Kurumbang
R.B. Adhikari

Social Studies &
Population Education

Grade - 7

Published by:
Shubharambha Publication Pvt. Ltd.
Kathmandu, Nepal

Edition:

First : 2071 B.S.

Second : 2072 B.S.

Third : 2075 B.S.

Revised & Updated : 2077 B.S.

Layout:

Zeeta Computer Service,

Ghantaghar, Kathmandu, Ph: 9841418545

©Copyright: Publisher
ISBN: 978-9937-579-80-3
Printed in Nepal

Preface

About The Book

Shubharambha’s Social Studies series is a thoughtfully prepared series of textbooks for school

children. The series has two sets of books: Primary Level –UKG to V and Secondary Level VI to

X. It is designed especially for the children of private and boarding schools. The series is purely
based on the curriculum prescribed by Curriculum Development Center(CDC), Government of
Nepal. While preparing the series, my own long social studies teaching and social studies text
books writing experiences, present day social-economic-political environment and above all

children’s psychology have been my guide lines. I hope the series will be effective in enhancing

and consolidating the children’s creativity and interest in learning social studies in the present

day environment. I am also confident that the series will fulfill CDC/Government of Nepal’s

objectives and address the needs and expectations of students and teachers alike.

Series’ Salient Features: • Lessons are presented in interesting
ways such as stories, dialogues, letters,
• Purely based on the curriculum • biographies etc with appropriate pictures
prescribed by CDC, Government of • and own environment based examples.
Nepal. • Social norms, values, traditions, historical
• facts and correct geographical setting are
• Each unit objectives are well focused, • given due attention.
duly aimed and amply covered. • Social, ethnic, religious, cultural,
• geographical diversities and gender
• Appropriately graded series for fulfilling • equality are well considered.
the requirements of the students in the Wide varieties of exercises, in-class
changing domestic and international activities and community based project
environment. works included.
Creativity, imagination and children
• Prepared keeping in mind students’ centered fun filled arts and crafts for
age, psychology, and modern teaching primary level.
- learning techniques, methodologies Designed and developed to engaging and
and philosophies. involving the children in the learning
process both physically and mentally.
• Contents presented in orderly and Student- centric and teacher-friendly
logical fashion strictly following the concept incorporated.
CDC syllabus. Teacher’s note for effective teaching-
learning activities and purposeful use of
• Concepts developed gradually from textbooks.
simple to complex order to facilitate Attractive and children friendly design,
easy understanding and assimilation. layout, illustrations, colour and concept.

• Simple language, own environment
based examples, interesting concepts
and multi-coloured illustrations.

• Interesting, stimulating and fun filled
activities for quick learning and
assimilation included.

I highly welcome and appreciate constructive opinions and valuable comments and suggestions
from experts, teachers and intellectuals. My sincere thanks are due to the Publisher, language
editors and layout and designer, my students and to those who inspired me to write and have been
involved in bringing out this series.

Authors

Specification Grid of Social Studies and Population Education

Unit Area Period Knowledge and Practical and Re- Critical Thinking Concept No. of Question Marks Remark
Comprehension search Skills Skills

Very Short Long Very Short Long Very Short Long Very Short Long Very short Short Long
short short short short

1. We, Our Society 14 1 1 11 7

2. Our Social Norms 16 1 1 11 7
and Values 16 1
3. Social Problems and 1 11 7
Preventions

4. Civic Consciousness 19 1 1 1 19

5. Our Earth 20 11 1 19

6. Our Past 17 1 1 11 7
11 7
7. Our Economic Ac- 15 1 1
tivities 11 7

8. Our International

Relations and Co-oper- 14 1 1

ation

9. Introduction of Popu-

lation Demographic 22 1 18

Condition

10. Population Growth 22 1 11 7
and Management

Total 175 7 3 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 9 7 3 75

Note: In total 75 marks for theoretical and 25 marks for practical, comprise 100 marks. For theoretical 30 marks and for practical 10 marks should secure respectively



Types of Questions Number of Questions and Marks Time

Very Short Answer Questions 9 Questions × 1 Marks = 9 Marks Very short Answer Questions 9 × 1.9 = 17 Minutes

Short Answer Questions 7 Questions × 6 Marks = 42 Marks Short Answer Questions 7 × 10 = 70 Minutes

Long Answer Questions 3 Questions × 8 Marks = 24 Marks Long Answer Questions 3 × 16 = 48 Minutes

Total 19 Questions = 75 Marks Total : 135 Minutes

Contents

Unit : 1 We, Our Community and Our Unit : 6 Our Past 146
1. Introduction To Medieval Nepal 147
Nation 7 2. Political Condition of Medieval Nepal 151
1. Origin & Development of Society 8
2. Socialization 13 3. Social and Cultural Condition of Medieval
Nepal 154
3. District Assembly and District Coordination 4. Human Civilization 159
Committee 18
4. Development Works In A District 22 5. The Hwang-Ho Valley Civilization 165

5. Transport As An Infrastructure of Unit : 7 Our Economic Activities 172
Development 26
6. Communication As An Infrastructure of 1. Our Natural Resources & Their
Utilization 173
Development 31 2. Our Industrial Activities 180
Unit : 2 Our Tradition, Social Values and
Norms 34 3. Relationships Between Agriculture &
Industry 184
1. Our Social and Religious Customs 35 4. Our Trade Activities 188
2. Respect For National Integrity, Sovereignty
& Unity 41
3. Our Cultural Traditions 47 Unit : 8 International Relations and
Cooperation 192
4. Our Folk Musical Instruments 51 1. SAARC and Nepal 193
5. Our Classical and Folk Dances 56
6. Our National Personalities 58 2. Landlocked Countries, Their Problems &
Solutions 200
Unit : 3 Our Social Problems and Their 3. Contemporary World Issues 204
Solutions 63
1. Our Social Evils and Problems: Causes and
Solutions 64 Unit : 9 Introduction of Population
Demographic Condition 208
2. Schools’ & Social Organizations’ Role In 1. Population Education and Its
Preventing Social Problems 69
3. Conflict and Its Management 74 Importance 209
2. Evolution of Population Education 214
4. Concept of Peace 78 3. Family Life Education 217
Unit : 4 Civic Awareness 81
1. Fundamental Elements of A State 82 4. Sources of Population Statistics 221
5. Factors Affecting Population Change 225
2. Fundamental Rights 85 6. Status of Migration In Nepal 233
3. Child Rights and Promotional Initiatives 90
4. Democratic Norms and Cultures 94 Unit : 10 Population Growth and
Management 239
5. Equal Behavior 98 1. The Trend of Population Growth in
6. Social Etiquettes and Norms 101
Unit : 5 Our Earth 104 Nepal 240
2. The causes and Consequences of Rapid
1. Landforms and Factors Influencing Its Population Growth 242
Changes 105
2. Climatic Change and Its Effects 110 3. Population Management and Quality of
Life 245
3. Disaster Management 115 4. Measures of Population Management 248
4. Physical Environment of Nepal 119
5. Map Work and Map Reading 124 5. The Role of Agencies Involved in Population
Management 251
6. Longitudes and Latitudes 128
7. Continent of Europe 132
8. Continent of Australia 140

Guidance for Teachers

Concerned teachers are required to organized their each lesson before starting the class. A
sample/ model is as below:

Objective of Study: Date:
Knowledge, Skill and Understanding :
Introduction : Duration:
Activities and Experiences: Key Learning & Teaching Strategies
Resource & Materials:

Key Vocabulary:

Success Criteria : Key Questions:
Class work: Differentiation:

Evaluation : Assessment Methods:
-
-
-

Conclusion:

Homework:

UNIT

1

WE, OUR COMMUNITY
AND OUR NATION

In this unit, we will learn the following:
• Origin and Development of Society
• Socialization
• District Assembly and District Coordination Committee
• Development Works in a District
• Transport as an Infrastructure of Development
• Communication as an Infrastructure of Development

Lesson Origin & Development
of Society
1

Introduction: Society
A society or a human society is a group of people living together in a more
or less ordered community. The people in a society share laws, institution,
traditions and values. They involve with each other through persistent
relations, activities and interests.

Origin of Society

Today, human beings live in a family, which is a unit of a community or a
society. Such families form communities and societies. But in the beginning,
it wasn’t like what we have today. People used to live in forests and caves like
animals. They used to live individually and had no permanent shelters. They
used to move from one place to another in search of food. Their needs were
mainly limited to food, shelter and security.
They used to live on hunted animals
and forest products. They weren’t much
organized. As time passed by, they started
realizing the importance of collaboration
in collecting food and driving wild animals
away. Then they slowly began to live and
work together in groups. They started
taming wild animals and cultivating fields. Origin of Society

With each other’s help, they built proper
shelters and cultivated farms. Rivers banks were the ideal places for such
activities as there were basic things like water and fertile soil. Almost all
the human civilizations have linkage with river basins. As the society went
developing, different social norms, values, traditions, rules and system of
government were formed. This is how, the human society is originated.

Evolution of Society
Human beings are by nature social beings. They have the natural instinct to
live in groups. However, the type of human societies we have today took a
long period of time to develop. Today’s society consists of families, wards,
villages, cities, districts, zones, and nation.

8 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

More broadly, a society may be illustrated as an economic, social, or industrial
infrastructure, made up of a varied collection of individuals. Members of a
society may be from different ethnic groups. A society can be a particular
ethnic group, such as the Kirat society; a nation state, such as Nepal; or
a broader cultural group, such as a Western society. The word society may
also refer to an organized voluntary association of people for religious,
benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic, or other purposes.

Stages of Evolution of Human Society
The human society in a broad sense developed
into the modern age step by step through the
following three stages.

i) Primitive Age (Stone Age):

It is the pre-historic age which is also called
the Stone Age as mainly stones were used
as tools, equipment and weapons. It was
the beginning of the human society. This age Early Men

lasted considerably for a long period of time
about 3.4 million of years. It ended between 4500 BC and 2000 BC with the
invention of metal. In this period, people weren’t much different from other
animals in their way of life. They used to live in forests and caves. Hunting
of wild animals and collecting wild fruits used to be their main occupations.
They used to live on hunted animals, fruits and roots. They used to wear
leaves, barks and animal skins. Fire was the major invention in this age.
They produced fire by rubbing stones. This brought a significant change in
their way of life. They started cooking food.

ii) Middle Age (Barbarian Age):

This is the period Middle Age
between the Stone Age
and the Modern Age.
It is broadly between
2000 BC to 15th
century BC. After the
discovery of metal,
they started making
tools, equipment and

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 9

weapons out of metal. This brought significant changes in their life. They even
started domesticating animals, and cultivating fields. They built permanent
settlements and started living in families and groups. They started being
religious. Some major religions like Christianity, Islam, etc. were developed
during this period. They also started observing death rituals. Meanwhile,
some languages, cultures and traditions, and customs were developed.

iii) Modern Age (Age of Civilization):

It is the period generally from fifteen
century to right up to date. This has been
the most important stage in the history of
human society. Many important inventions
and discoveries were made, and new ideas
and thinking evolved. Education became
instrumental in shaping people’s mind
and attitudes. Many great civilizations got
developed and flourished in various parts of
the world. People became more organized, Science and Technology

cultured and civilized. The human society
has changed greatly especially after the Industrial Evolution.

Today, we are in the age of industry, science, technology, art and literature.
Industrialization and mechanization have become parts and parcels of
human society. Life has become more comfortable. Advancement in
communication has brought the world community closer than ever before. In
no time, we can communicate anywhere in the world. The world has become
virtually a global village. Human attempts continue exploring the space and
celestial bodies like moon and mars.

Importance of Society
Society means collaboration. A society can enable its members to benefit in
ways that would not otherwise be possible on an individual basis. In simple
words, the importance of a society can be as follows:

• It makes us united.
• It enables us to achieve seemingly difficult things.
• It promotes mutual understanding and cooperation.
• It provides mutual protection and security.
• it provides an ample opportunity to be socialized.

10 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

• It helps us in making best utilization of resources.
• It helps in protection, preservation and promotion of art, culture and

civilization.
• It provides platform for sharing joys and sorrows.
• It helps to ensure individual and collective interests.
• It helps in the continuous growth of human civilization.

Points to Remember:

F A human society is a group of people living together sharing same laws,
institutions, traditions and values.

F In the beginning, human beings used to live in forests and caves, their
life wasn’t like what we have today.

F Human society developed into the modern society step by step over a
long period of time.

F Development of human society can be broadly seen in three stages:
primitive, middle and modern.

F Primitive period also called the Stone Age, when mostly stone tools were
used, lasted for a long period.

F In the middle age, human beings started farming, rearing animals and
living in a particular place.

F Modern age, which continues even today, is the age of science,
technology, art, architecture and literature.

F A society enables its members to benefit in ways that would not otherwise
be possible on an individual basis.

Key Terms and Words: 11

• Advancement: growth, improvement, progress
• Benevolent : kind, big hearted
• Celestial: heavenly, divine
• Collaboration: cooperation
• Linkage : relation, connection
• Mechanization: automation, industrialization
• Persistent : continuous, constant
• Primitive: primary, original, beginning
• Virtually: basically, essentially, for all practical purposes

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:
1. What is a society?
2. Why is the early period of human society called the Stone Age?
3. When was the Stone Age ended?
4. Write two human activities of the primitive age.
5. Which period of human society is called the Middle Age?
6. Write the most significant feature of the modern age.
7. Why did most of the human civilizations flourish on river banks?

Short answer questions:
1. What is a human society, and why is it necessary?
2. Write about the origin of human society in brief.
3. Modern Age is the age of science and technology. Justify with
examples.
4. Compare and contrast the Modern Age with the Primitive Age.
5. Describe the human society in the Middle Age.
6. Describe the human society in the Primitive Age or the Stone Age.
7. Why is the society important to us? Write in a paragraph.

Community Based Work:
You may have your grandparents living with you. Ask them about their
childhood days and compare with yours. Write a note on this and share
with your friends in the class.

12 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Lesson Socialization

2

Introduction: Socialization
Socialization is the process of learning social skills, norms and values and
cultures from society. We begin learning from others during the early days
of life and continue learning throughout life. Sometimes the learning is fun.
When we learn a new sport, art or musical technique from a friend we like.
Through socialization, we learn to adjust ourselves to a group or society
and behave in a proper manner. Socialization has vibrant influence on our
behaviour, beliefs, and actions. It is the way of understanding the society, its
customs, norms and values and follow them accordingly.

Continuing Process
We are born without any culture. We get
transformed by our parents, teachers, and
others into culturally and socially adept
animals. This general process of acquiring
culture is referred to as socialization. During
socialization, we learn the language of the
culture we are born into as well as the roles
we have to play in life. For instance, girls learn
how to be daughters, sisters, friends, wives,
and mothers. In addition, they learn about
the occupational roles that their society has
in store for them. We also learn and usually
adopt our culture's norms. Norms are the conceptions of appropriate and
expected behavior that are held by most members of the society. Because
of this process of socialization by our parents and other people who raise us,
we adopt specific culture, customs and behavior.
Socialization is important in the process of personality formation. While must
of human personality is the result of our genes, the socialization process
can mold it in particular direction. Socialization instills specific beliefs and
attitudes in us. For instance, we usually train our boys to be tough and
aggressive whereas girls to be quiet, sober and gentle.

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 13

Successful socialization can result in uniformity within a society. If all children
receive the same socialization, it is likely that they will share the same beliefs
and expectations. Those who internalize the norms of society are less likely
to break the law or to want radical social changes. In all societies, however,
there are individuals who do not conform to culturally defined standards
normally because they were "abnormally" socialized, which is to say that
they have not internalized the norms of society. These people are usually
labeled by their society as deviant or even mentally ill.

Socialization Methods
The practices of socialization vary from society to society. Such practices
are generally similar among people of the same society. This is because
people from the same culture and community are likely to share same value.
In addition, we generally socialize our children in such way that our parents
socialized us. Different methods are used to control children in different
societies. For instance, some use fear and physical punishment. In contrast,
some use parental praise and the threat of withholding praise.

There are two broad types of teaching methods: Formal & Informal.

Informal Method: It can occur
anywhere. Natural socialization
occurs when infants and youngsters
explore, play and discover the social
world around them. It involves
imitation of what others do and say.
It also involves experimentation and
repetitive practice of basic skills.
Most of the crucial early socialization
throughout the world is done
informally under the supervision of
women and girls. Initially, mothers Grandmother Feeding Her Grandchild

and their female relatives are
primarily responsible for socialization. In our societies, baby-sitters are most
often older sisters or grandmothers.

Formal Method: Planned socialization occurs when other people take
actions designed to teach or train others -- from infancy on. It is what primarily
happens in a classroom. It usually is structured, controlled, and directed.

14 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Agents of Socialization
Primary Agents: Socialization begins shortly after birth. Early childhood is
the period of the most intense and the most crucial socialization. We acquire
language and learn the fundamentals of our culture during this period. It
is also the time when much of our personality takes shape. However, we
continue to be socialized throughout our lives. As we grow up, we enter new
status and need to learn the appropriate roles for them.
Primary socialization for a child is very important. It is the foundation which
sets the groundwork for all future socialization. Primary socialization occurs
when a child learns the attitudes, values, and actions appropriate to a
particular culture. It is mainly influenced by the immediate family, relatives
and friends. Social functions, ceremonies, festivals and occasions like
wedding, fair, jatras, family rituals also play important role in the primary
socialization.
Secondary Agents: It is the process of
learning the appropriate behavior as a
member of a smaller group within the
larger society. It takes place outside the
home. It is where children and adults
learn how to act in a way that depend
for the situations they are in. Schools
require very different behavior from the
home, and children must act according
to new rules.

Conclusion

Who we are at present, what we think
and feel, and where we plan to go in life
is dependent on our socialization. But
we should not be limited by the things A Brother and A Sister

given to us by our prior social learning
experiences. We can take all our remaining days and steer our future social
learning in directions that we value. The more we know about the socialization
process, the more effective we can be in directing our future learning in the
ways that will help us the most. Socialization is thus ‘the means by which
social and cultural continuity are attained’.

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 15

Points to Remember:

F Socialization is the process of learning social kills, norms and values
from other in a society.

F Through socialization we learn to adjust ourselves to a group or society
and behave in a manner.

F We get transformed by our parents, teachers, and others into cultural
and socially adept animals.

F Socialization is important in the process of personality formation.
F Successful socialization can result in uniformity within a society.
F Socialization practices vary from society to society.
F Socialization can be positive, negative, primary, secondary and many

more types.
F Family, friends, and relatives are the primary and schools, clubs, media,

social and religious institutions are secondary agents of socialization.

Key Terms and Words:

• Adept: very able, capable
• Conceptions: understanding, idea
• Deviant: abnormal, different
• Instills: implants, introduces
• Imitation : be like, copy
• Internalize: incorporate
• Peer : coequal, companion, associate
• Steer: guide, direct on a course
• Transform : change completely, convert, remodel
• Withhold: keep back

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:

1. What is socialization?
2. What is understood by norms?
3. What are the methods of socialization?
4. What are the agents of primary socialization?

16 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

5. What are the agents of secondary socialization?
6. What is ‘peer group’?

Short answer questions:

1. Why is socialization called a continuous process?
2. Why is it important to have socialization?
3. One is the product of mainly socialization. Justify this statement with

examples.
4. What do you mean by secondary socialization? Explain with its

agents.
5. Who do you think plays the most crucial role in early socialization of

a child, and how?

Community Based Work:

There are definitely many small children in your community. Who do you
see taking care of them other than their parents? How do you think the
babies would be influenced by them? Write a short report on this.

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 17

Lesson District Assembly and
District Coordination
3
Committee

Introduction
District Assembly, the highest elected body in the district, is an important
local administrative body. The existing 75 District Development Committee
have been replaced by 77 District Assembly according to the provision of
new constitution of Nepal 2072 BS. It is higher than Rural Municipality and
Municipal Council.
In democratic system of government, the formation of local bodies are
essential to carry out the development and other activities effectively and
fruitfully. It encourages people’s participation which has become the major
concern for an equal and sustainable development of any society or nation.
It is not possible for the central government to conduct development works
and also to deliver services to the people proportionately.
Rule through people’s representation, a foundation of democracy, is another
important aspect of development. Actually, democracy refers to a political
system where the citizen exercise power directly or elect representative from
among themselves to form a government.
Democratic rule can be practiced from the central level to the local level
through the formation of Rural Municipality, Municipal Executive, District
Assembly and District Coordination Committee. The democratic rule,
based on popular will, is considered as the most ideal rule. People elect
their representative by themselves in democracy. The central or local level
government is formed by these representatives.
According the constitution of Nepal, 2072, there shall be a District Assembly
within the district, as provided in the law, for the coordination and essential
management among the Rural Municipality and Municipal Executives. The
head of every Rural Municipality and the Mayor of every Municipal Executive
within the district shall be members in the District Assembly. The first meeting
of the district Assembly shall be held within thirty days of the declaration of
the final result of the Rural Municipality and Municipal council elections.
The District Assembly shall elect a district Coordination Committee with
a maximum of nine members including a Head, a Deputy Head, at least

18 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

three women and at least one person from the Dalit or minority community
according to Provincial laws. The District Coordination Committee shall
execute all tasks to be conducted on behalf of the District Assembly.
The members of the Rural Municipality or Municipal Council within the
district shall be eligible to be the candidate for the post of Head, Deputy
Head or member of the District Coordination committee. The terms of all
the members including Head, Deputy Head of the District Coordination
Committee shall be of five years.

Activities of District Assembly and District Coordination
Committee
The District Coordination committee acts as an executive to the district
Assembly. It coordinates municipalities. It also coordinates between the
provenience and federal government.

The District Assembly and District Coordination Committee are responsible
for the formation of different effective plan, policies and programs for the
overall development of the concerned district.

The District Assembly and the District Coordination Committee should
include the following areas while preparing plans and programs in order to
address the necessity of the people:

1. Agriculture
2. Transportation
3. Hydropower
4. Drinking water and residential area
5. Land Reforms and Land Management
6. Social welfare and Disaster relief
7. Forest and Environment
8. Health, Sanitation, Drainage etc
9. Education and Sports
10. Irrigation, soil-conservation and River control
11. Information and Communication
12. Wages and Labour
13. Preservation, protection and promotion of Language and Culture
14. Construction, repair and maintenance of public places

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 19

15. Industries
16. Miscellaneous
The Functions, Duties and Powers of the District Assembly
The functions, duties and powers of the District Assembly shall be as below:
1. To coordinate among the Rural Municipality, Municipal Councils and

Province within the district,
2. To implement, supervise and evaluate the district level development

programs,
3. To organize agricultural, developmental, industrial, tourism and other

exhibitions and meets etc.
4. To conduct programs on immunization, prevention of epidemics, drug

addiction etc,
5. To supervise and give necessary advice and directives to the Rural

Municipality and Municipal Councils within the districts,
6. To maintain coordination among the Federal and Provincial government

offices, Rural Municipality and Municipal Councils within the districts,
7. To implement development programs as forwarded by the central

government,
8. To carry out other works as provided for in the Provincial law.

Points to Remember:

F District Assembly, the highest elected body in the district, is an important
local administrative body.

F Rule through people’s representation, a foundation of democracy, is
another important aspect of development.

F Democracy refers to a political system where the citizen exercise power
directly or elect representative from among themselves to form a
government.

F There shall be a District Assembly within the district, as provided in the
law, for the coordination and essential management among the Rural
Municipality and Municipal Executives.

F The terms of all the members including Head, Deputy Head of the District
Coordination Committee shall be of five years.

20 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Key Terms and Words:

• Participation: the action of taking part in something
• Sustainable: able to continue over period of time
• Representation: the act of presenting somebody in a particular way,

portrayal
• Declaration: announcement
• Minority: the smaller part of group
• Eligible: qualified
• Exhibitions: display
• Immunization: vaccine
• Directives: an official instruction

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:

1. Write the full form of DA and DCC.
2. What is considered to be the foundation of democracy?
3. What do you mean by 'Democracy'?
4. Who shall be eligible to be the candidate for the post of Head, Deputy

Head and members of District Coordination Committee?
5. How long is the term of members of District Coordination Committee?
6. Mention any two important areas to be included by DA and DCC

while preparing plan.
Short answer questions:

1. What is democracy? Write any two characteristics.
2. Why do we need local government? Write any two reasons.
3. What is the process of the formation of District Coordination

Committee? Explain.
4. Write the function, duties and powers of the District Assembly.
5. If you became a member of DA or DCC, what plans and programs

would you make for your district? Prepare a model plan.
Community Based Work:

Visit some people in your community and ask them about the need of
local government. Prepare a report based on their response.

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 21

Lesson Development Works
In A District
4

Development is a process of change or positive growth in any situation.
Following is a letter written by a person living in Taplejung of Mechi Zone one
of the mountainous district, to a friend living in Rupandehi District of Lumbini
Zone describing the development works in her district.

Dear Sumnima,

I received your kind letter
the day before yesterday. I am
happy that you wrote about
the development works in
your district. And, I am equally
excited to know your interest
about the development works
taking in my district. Though, it
may not be possible to include Development

everything in this short letter,
however, I will try my best to give you as much information as I can.

As you know, my district, Taplejung is a mountainous district. It lies
in the lap of the magnificent mountains Kanchanjunga and Khumbhakarna
in the northernmost part of Mechi Zone. It is one of the four districts of
Mechi Zone. Its topography and climatic condition are completely different
than what you have in Rupandehi. Hence, the developmental requirements
and challenges are accordingly different in my district. It is comparatively
more challenging to implement development works in my district due to its
difficult terrain condition. However, there are many development activities
taking place at the moment.

The DA is responsible for coordinating, planning, implementing and
supervising various development works in the districts. Recently, the Taplejung
Section of the Mechi Highway has been blacktopped. A bridge has been built
over Kabeli River. It joins Panthar District and Taplejung District. This has made
road transportation more reliable and comfortable in my district. Now, all the
districts in my zone are linked by a metal road. There is an airport too at Shuke

22 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Danda adjacent to my district headquarter. The Mechi Highway reaches up
to this airfield. Airfield extension and pitching programme is also taking place
step by step.

There are a number of rural road projects being undertaken in the
district. Many of the villages have now fair weather road tracks. A major
road track project is in progress along Kabeli River, which will connect
some villages like Thumbedin, Sinam, Tellock, Sikaicha etc in the east and
northeast part of the district. These road and airfield have made the lifestyle
more comfortable. They can quickly travel to different places, and have
enhanced trade and commerce activities too. As Taplejung is one of the
popular tourist destinations in eastern region, such facilities will further help
in its promotion.

There is a small hydro-power project in the district, but it is not
sufficient to supply sufficient electricity for the district. There are currently
some medium sized hydro-power projects under construction at Rivers
Kabeli and Tamor,and Iwa Khola etc. Once these projects are completed, I
hope, each of the houses in my district will have electricity.

Taplejung is very rich in natural resources. There is a project called
Kanchanjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) running for sometime
now. It aims to help the
local people by conserving
environment. There are
some rare species of wild
animals and plants like
musk deer, red panda,
snow leopard, mountain
goat, padam chal, panch
aule, chiraito, yarsa etc. in
these areas. Kanchanjuga Convservation Area

As my district is
generally suitable for growing cash crops like citrus fruits, cardamoms,
amliso, along with animal husbandry, the DA is helping the local people by
providing various technical supports. These items are some of the main
sources of income in the district.

There are many cottage industries like Dhaka cloth weaving, carpet

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 23

and radipakhi, metalcrafts, woodencrafts, cheese manufacturing etc.
Taplejung’s yak chhurpies, and dhaka clothes are very popular among the
visitors.
Though, Taplejung is a mountainous district, its literacy rate is
comparatively higher than in many districts in the country. There are a
number of Secondary schools and campuses. Each village has at least one
or two primary or lower secondary schools. Including Fungling Municipality
Sirijangha, Tribeni Atharai, Mikwakhola, Yangworok Rural Municipality
have secondary schools and multiple campuses. There are a number of
private schools too in the district. Adult and women education and literacy
programmes are conducted on regular basis. Some local women's group
associations, local clubs and social organization are playing important role
in this regard.
There is a district hospital at Phungling Bazar. There are few health
posts at different parts in the district. There is a FM radio station called
Radio Tamor in the district headquater named after the biggest river in the
district. Every village is connected with a few lines of CDMA telephones.
There are many drinking water projects implemented in the district.
Many villages have been benefitted from these projects.
Taplejung has very high prospect of tourism development. The
Kumbhakarna Mountain Range, KCAP, Pativara, rafting on Tamor, Limbu
cultures, mind-blowing natural beauties are some of the important attractions
of my district.
I hope my letter is not too long. I might have missed some of the
developmental works. However, I am sure you will have a fair idea from this
letter about the development works that are taking place in my district. More
will follow in my next letter. Please convey my respectful regards to aunty and
uncle.

With my open invitation to visit my district,
Sincerely yours,

Phaktanglungma Paramangana.

24 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Points to Remember:

F Taplejung is one of the mountainous districts in Mechi Zone in the
Eastern Development Region.

F Taplejung is the north-easternmost district of Nepal lying in the lap of Mt
Kanchanjugga, the third highest peak of the world.

F Taplejung is linked by a metal road, Mechi Highway, and has an airfield
too.

F There is Kunchanjunga Conservation Area Project in Taplejung.
F Limbu cultures, KCAP, Pativara and beautiful landscapes are the tourist

attractions in Taplejung.

Key Terms and Words:

• Terrain : landscape, topography, landform
• Topography : terrain, ground, land

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:
1. What is the full form of KCAP?
2. Where is Taplejung located?
3. Which highway connects Taplejung?
4. Mention three important local products of Taplejung.
5. Which are the important rivers in Taplejung?

Short answer questions:
1. What are the prospects for development in Taplejung?
2. Describe the development works of Taplejung district in brief.
3. Taplejung has high prospect for tourism industry. Justify this
statement with supporting information.
4. What are the economic activities of people in Taplejung?

Community Based Work:
List out the resources found in your locality. How can they be utilized to
get maximum benefit? Write a letter to your friend living in different part
of your country suggesting your ideas.

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 25

Lesson Transport As An
Infrastructure of
5
Development

Introduction: Transportation A map showing Road Network
Transportation refers to the
movement of people, animals,
goods and services from one place
to another. Transport infrastructure
consists of roads, railways, airways,
ropeways, waterways, canals,
pipelines and terminals. Means of
transportation traveling on these
networks may include automobiles,
bicycles, buses, trains, trucks,
people, helicopters and aircraft.

Importance
Transport is one of the most important infrastructures of development.
Without having proper transport facilities, no development works can be
undertaken. It is the backbone, the first and foremost of any development
works. All other development activities are closely linked with transportation.

Transportation helps to develop other infrastructures of development like
health, electricity, market, industry, commerce etc.

• Transportation makes easier to carry goods from one place to another.
• Transportation provides employment opportunity.
• Transportation makes our life easier and comfortable.
• Transportation helps to civilize.
Status of Transportation in Nepal
Government of Nepal has been giving a lot of importance to extend the
development of transportation facilities in the country. However, compared
with other countries, transportation system in Nepal is not much developed.
There are many places which are still not linked by any means of transportation.

Topography of the country is one of the major obstacles behind expansion of
transport networks. Poverty and lack of technical manpower, equipment are
some other problems for the development of transportation.

26 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Means of Transportation in Nepal

Roadways: Nepal is a landlocked and
mountainous country. We have no
sea. It is comparatively expensive to
maintain air services. Our rivers are fast
flowing and not suitable for waterways.
Railways have limited scope due to
terrain condition. So, roadways have
important place in Nepal. It is difficult
to build and maintain roads on hills
and mountains. However, it remains Roadways

the basic and the cheapest means of transport in the country.

Tribhuwan Highway is the oldest highway of our country. Except the district
headquarters of Humla and Dolpa of Karnali Zone, all other district
headquarters have been linked by road. There are many feeder tracks and
roads to link up with the highways. There are Koshi, Sagarmatha, Rapti,
Karnali, Seti and Mahakali Highways under construction. The following are
the main highways:

S.N. Highways Places linked Distance
in Km
1 Mahendra Highway Mechi-Mahakali
2 Tribhuvan Highway Birgunj - Kathmandu 1030
3 Araniko Highway Kathmandu - Kodari 189
4 Prithvi Highway Naubise - Pokhara 113
5 Madan Ashrit Highway Narayangadh - Mugling 174
6 BP Highway Bhittamod – Sindhuli - Dhulikhel 36
7 Mechi Highway Kechana - Taplejung 198
8 Koshi Highway Rani - Myanglung 268
9 Sagarmatha Highway Kadamaha - Salleri 159
10 Siddhartha Highway Sunauli - Pokhara 265
11 Rapti Highway Ameliya - Musikot 182
12 Ratna Highway Nepalgunj – Surkhet 196
13 Karnali Highway Surkhet – Bangesimal 113
14 Bhimdatta Highway Mohanapul – Darchula 232
15 Seti Highway Syaule – Samuagad, Saphe 320
66

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 27

Airways: As the roadways have not yet reached many important remote
places, airways play significant role. Passengers, cargo, relief and rescue
services are provided by different airlines.
Air services began in 2008 BS. Nepal Air
Lines (NAC) is the first airlines of Nepal. It
operates both domestic and international
flights. Presently, there are several other
private airlines: Buddha, Yeti, Agni, Sita,
Saurya, Shree, Tara, Airlines, etc. are in
operation. Most of them operate
domestic services. They provide services Airways

to the most major towns in the country.

Outside Kathmandu, Dhanghadi, Bhadrapur, Biratnagar, Bhairahawa,
Pokhara, Nepalgung, Surkhet and Dhangadi are the major air services hobs.
Air flights are conducted from these hobs to different destinations in the
respective areas.

Besides our own airlines, several other international airlines: Indian Airlines,
Jet Airlines, Biman Bangladesh, Pakistan International Airlines, Thai Airways,
Qatar Airways, China South West Airlines, Druk Air, Gulf Airways etc provide
international air services.

Railways: There is very limited railways service
in Nepal. Although railway services began in
1985 BS, it couldn’t expand mainly due to
geographical reason. The first railway
connecting Raxual - Amlekhgunj (50 Km) called
Nepal Government Railway has been closed.
Presently, there is only one railway service, Railways

Jayanagar- Janakpur Railway (53 Km). It was
constructed in 1992 BS. It exists only for namesake, its condition is very
poor.

Ropeways: There is good potentiality Ropeways
of ropeways in our country. But, its
condition is also just like that of
railways. The first ropeway service
between Matatirtha (Thankot) –
Bhainse (Hetauda) started in 1986,

28 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

is out of operation. There is at present a cable car service operated by private
sector between Kuringtar of Chitwan and Manakamana of Gorkha. It was
established in 2055 BS. Its length is only 3.1 Km. Likewise we have
Chandragiri ropeway which is playing vital role in tourism, it was started in
2016 AD. The Chandragiri Cable car runs
from Thankot to Chandragiri Hills. It's length
is 2.4 Kilometer.

Waterways: Nepal is very rich in water Waterways
resources. There are more than 6,000
rivers of various sizes. However, we haven’t
been able to utilize them for navigational
purposes. Our rivers are fast flowing and
are unsuitable for water transportation.
Our rivers are mostly suitable for adventure
tourism.

Points to Remember:

F Transportation is the movement of people, animals and goods from one
location to another.

F Modes of transport include air, rail, road, water, cable, pipeline and
space.

F Transportation is one of the important infrastructures of development.
F Movement of people and supplies of essential goods and services

depend on various means of transportation..
F Topography of the country is one of the major obstacles for the

development of transport.
F Road transport remains the basic and the cheapest means of transport.
F Tribhuwan Highway is the first highway of Nepal.

Key Terms and Words: 29

• Depots: storage place, garage
• Equipment: machinery, gear for activities
• Installations: establishments, fittings
• Legalities: regarding laws, authorities
• Terminals: stations, depots
• Topography: landform
• Warehouses: storage places

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:
1. What is transportation?
2. What is the cheapest means of transportation in Nepal?
3. When was air services started in Nepal ?
4. Which is the first highway of Nepal and when was it built?
5. Why are the rivers of Nepal not suitable for transportation?
6. What are the modes of transportation?
7. What is the major problem related with transportation development
in Nepal?

Short answer questions:
1. Why is transportation important? Explain.
2. Why road transport hasn’t yet reached to some places in Nepal,
give reasons.
3. How is the situation of road transport in Nepal?
4. What do you think are the reasons that railways couldn’t develop in
Nepal?

Community Based Work
Make a list of popular airlines of Nepal and prepare a project report
about the means of popular transportations facility that you are
using in your locality.

30 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Lesson Communication As
An Infrastructure of
6
Development

Introduction: Communication Newspaper
Communication means exchanging ideas,
messages, feelings, news, views, reports
and so on. It is done using different means:
letters, telephone, newspapers, magazines,
mobile phones, fax, TV, radio, films etc. E-mail,
internet and fax are the fastest means of
communication. Communication is one of the
most important infrastructures of development.

Importance of Communication
Communication is as vital as transportation. Both are important
infrastructures of development. They do not only contribute to the economic
development but also bring people and countries closer. Today, the world
has become practically a global village. It is due to the different means of
communication. Different parts of the world have been interlinked by various
means of communication.

Information is power. Circulation of information on time is possible only with
the help of efficient means of communication. Information on time helps
to speed up development works. It also helps to save valuable time and
resources.

Present State of Communication in Nepal
Comparatively, Nepal has been doing better in the field of communication.
Almost every village is connected with telephone and mobile phone. Radio
Nepal’s capacity has been largely enhanced. It has transmission stations
even outside of Kathmandu at Dhankuta, Gauridanda (Sindhuli), Pokhara,
Sukrhet and Dipayal. In addition, there are a number of FM radio stations all
over the country being operated by the private sectors.

Telephone service has been greatly improved. It has reached to each town
and village. It is one of the best in the SAARC countries. We can communicate

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 31

anywhere in the world through telephones. Mobile
phones have been widely distributed. Private sectors
like United Telecome and Ncell are also providing
these services. A significant number of people have
been using internet.
Postal services are all over the country. Besides
the government postal service, there is a privately
managed Postal Service called Everest Postal Service.
The television service which started in 1985 has largely expanded. Besides
the government owned Nepal Television, there are Kantipur, Image Channel,
Sagarmatha, Avenues, Himalayan, Terai, ABC, News 24 TVs, etc. operated by
private sectors. We can receive many foreign channels as well.
Many daily, weekly, fortnightly newspapers and magazines are published all
over the country. Journalism, press and media have been widely developed.

Social Media
Social media refers those information mechanism that facilities to creating
and sharing informations, ideas, interests and other expressions through
the Information Communication and Technology. Several social medias
like- Facebook, Twitter, Viber, Imo, WeChat, etc. are taking a huge place in
communication system these days.

Problems and Solutions
Although, there has been a rapid development of various means of
communication in the country, telephone is still the most common means of
communication. Its access is still limited in rural areas. Quality also has to
be improved. Internet, fax and mobile services are expensive. These services
should be made more reliable and within the access of common people.

Points to Remember:

F Communication means exchanging ideas, messages, feelings, news,
views, reports and so on.

F Means of communication are letters, telephone, newspapers, mobile,
fax, TV, radio, internet, etc.

F Communication is as vital as transportation.
F Information is power.
F Television service was started in 1985 in Nepal.
F Gorkhapatra is the first newspaper of Nepal.

32 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Key Terms and Words:

• Interlinked: interwoven, interlaced, intertwined
• Journalism: news, reporting, the fourth estate
• Magazines: periodic publication
• Media: communication by publication or broadcast, radio-TV-newspapers

etc

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:
1. What is communication?
2. What are the means of communication?
3. Which is the fastest means of communication?
4. Which is the most common means of communication?

Short answer questions:
1. Write a paragraph about importance of communication.
2. How should we make use of different means of communication?
Give your ideas.
3. What are the problems and solution of communication in Nepal ?
4. "Communication brings people and countries closer." Justify this
statement with examples.

Community Based Work:
a. Make a list of means of communication that are being used in your
district. Which one of them is the most commonly used and the least
used? Prepare a report.
b. Draw various means of communication and share among your friend
in the classroom.

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 33

UNIT

2

OUR TRADITION,
SOCIAL VALUES AND

NORMS

In this unit, we will learn the following:
• Our Social and Religious Customs
• Respect for National Integrity, Sovereignty and Unity
• Our Cultural Traditions
• Our National Personalities

34 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Lesson Our Social and Religious
Customs
1

Our Social Customs and Practices
Social customs, which are closely linked with a society, are the products of
societies. They are like mirrors by which the features of a particular society
are reflected. They are reflected in various rites and rituals, festivals, and
ceremonies like birth, nwaran (naming), pasni (rice feeding), bratbandha
(coming up age), wedding, death, jatras and parvas etc.

Nepal is a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural nation. There are more than 125
castes and ethnic groups in Nepal. Each of them has its own social norms,
customs and traditions. The basic social rites and rituals like nomenclature,
rice feeding, coming up age, wedding and death mourning are also performed
differently by different groups of people. For example: Chhetris and Bahuns
perform nwaran on 11th day of birth, but majority of other castes do it on 7th
day. Pasni is generally done on completion of 6 months in all communities.
Bartabandha (thread wearing), which is a must among Chhetris and Bahuns,
is not practiced in many other ethnic communities.

Rais and Limbus mourn the death of their near and dear only for 3 to 4
days, whereas Chhetris, Bahuns,
Thakuris etc mourn for 13 days.
Kirats, Tamangs, Dhimals and
Sherpas bury the dead body
whereas other communities
cremate it. Tamangs and Gurungs
perform ‘Ghewa’ for three days.
Chhetris, Bahuns, Newars perform
shraddha every year for the peace
of the departed soul. This practice
is not common in other ethnic Limbu Culture

communities.

Similarly, crosss-cousin a marriage between a brother’s and a sister’s
children (Mama Chela Phupu Chela) can take place in Gurung, Magar and
Thakuri communities, but it is strictly prohibited in most of the other castes

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 35

and ethnic tribes. Belvivah or Ihi of
very young girls is typical custom in the
Newar community. Kirant people like
Rai, Limbu, Sunuwar, Yakkha observe
Udhauli and Ubhauli, Newars observe
different Jatras like Gaijatra, Indrajatra,
Machhendranat jatra etc, Gurungs,
Tamangs and Sherpas observe Lhosar,
Tharus celebrate Maghi, Chhetris and
Bahun among others celebrate Janai Chyabrung Nach

Purnima and Teej, Terai people observe Chhath etc.

Some of the important cultural dances belonging to some major ethnic
groups of people are:

Magars – Kaura Nanch Tharus - Jhumara, Jatijatin and Gopichan

Tamangs – Tamang Selo Rais – Sakela Sili

Gurungs – Rodhi, Ghatu and Sorathi Limbus – Dan Nach and Chyabrung Nach

In spite of these differences, Nepalese share some common social customs
and cultures. They respect each other’s customs and cultures and even
participate in each other’s festivals actively. Borrowing and lending of
essential goods and exchanging of labours during planting, harvesting and
major construction work like houses etc are very common in rural Nepal.

Nepalese people are by nature very cooperative, understanding and peace
loving. They pay high respect to elders, teachers, parents and guests.
Parents, teachers and guests are regarded as Gods. There are social
practices of constructing water taps, resting places (chautara), travellers’
inns (pati pauwa) and planting of trees on the name of deceased persons.
Nepalese people enjoy feast and festivities.
Maghe Sankranti, and Saune Sankranti are
some common social occasion on which
variety of rich food, different roots and yams
are enjoyed. But, at the same time, there
are some social evils like drinking in public
places, extravagance, animal sacrifice,
child marriage, untouchability and gender Puranas

discrimination etc.

36 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Our Religious Customs and Practices

Nepal is a secular country. Everyone
is equal in front of law. It is a common
home of all Nepalese. There are
several religions followed by a
significant number of people. There
are Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam,
Kirat and Christianity etc. People
of different religions respect each
other’s religion and their practices.
There is high level of religious
tolerance in Nepal.
Teej

Hindus, who worship images
of hundreds of gods, goddesses and deities, are in majority. Brahma,
Vishnu and Maheshwar are their trinity Gods, and the Vedas, Upanishads,
Puranas and Geeta are religious books. The Hindus have typical way of
performing worships (pujas aradhanas) like Panchopachar, Dasopachar,
and Shodashopachar. They perform worships by reciting matras and
stotras (religious hymns). Some of them observe fasting on certain days of
each month. Both men and women play important roles in observing and
performing religious rituals and ceremonies.

Hindus are charitable people believing in charities and donations. They give
donations and charities to the poor, disadvantaged, helpless, orphans and
elderly people.

Dashain, Tihar, Teej, Chhath, Mahashivaratri, Ramnawami, Bibahapanchami,
Janai Purnima, Holi etc are some of the important religious festivals and
occasions of the Hindus.

Buddhism, which is the second largest religion in Nepal, is another important
religion followed in Nepal. This religion was founded by Lord Buddha. There
are many Buddhist stupas and monasteries all over the country. Peace and
non-violence are the essence of this religion. Buddhist people visit stupas
and monasteries and pay respect to lord Buddha by chanting religious
sermons (mantras). They give much importance to meditation. Buddhist
monks and nuns get short hair cut and wear orange-yellow coloured robes
known as civaras.

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 37

The Jatakas and the Tripitakas are the main religious scriptures of Buddhism.
Lhosar and Buddha Purnima are the main festivals of the Buddhist people.

Islam, which was founded by Prophet Mohammad, is another important
religion practiced in Nepal. Islam discards images to worship. They go to
mosques and pray to the God whom they call Allah. They wear white clothes
and a head scarf while praying. They perform namaz five times a day reciting
their religious scripture Quran. They
highly regard to the annual pilgrimage,
called Hajj, to Mecca and Medina in
Saudi Arabia. They observe a month
long fasting known as roza in the ninth
month (Ramadan) of their calendar.
During the fast, they don’t eat and drink
anything after the sun rise and before
the sun set. The month long fasting is Dhaka Topi

broken with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
They eat sewai and other delicious food and give donation in cash or food
to poor and needy people on this day. Id and Bakar Id are main festivals in
Islam.

Kirat is another important religion practiced in Nepal. This religion is
followed especially by Rais, Limbus, Sunuwars and Yakkhas. Non-voilence
and prohibition of animal sacrifices are the essence of this religion. Kirat
people show high honour to the nature. In fact, this religion is based on
nature worship. The Mundhum is their holy scripture. Their temple is called
Manghim (dwelling place of God), Tangshing, Mangena, Nwagi Puja etc are
their main religious customs. Parohang and Sumnima (Shiva and Parvati) are
regarded as their ancestors. Their priests are called Fedangba and Shamba.
Similarly, the Tamangs call their priest Lama and so do the Gurungs.

Besides above religions, there are Christinity, Sikhism, Bahai and some
other religions too in Nepal. Christianity was founded by Jesus Christ. The
Bible is their holy book and Christmas the main religious festival. They go
to church for prayer. Normal prayers are usually conducted on Sunday.
Similarly, Mahavir and Guru Nanak are the founders of Jainism and Sikhism
respectively. Sikhs go to worship in Gurudwara, and Guru Grantha Sahib is
their religious scripture.

38 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Our Costumes and Ornaments
People belonging to different castes and tribes wear different types of
costumes and ornaments. Costumes and ornaments also vary according to
geographical regions. Generally, women in the hilly region wear gunyo, cholo,
patuka, pachhyaura while men wear daura, suruwal, jawari coat, dhaka topi
etc. However, typical ethnic costumes are also worn by different tribe of
people. For example: kachhad, bhoto, bhangra, gado etc are worn by Gurung
males and ghalek by Gurung women. In mountain, women wear pangden,
dochha, mocha and so do men wear bakhu, docha and mocha. In terai, men
wear kurtha, kamij, pyjama, dhoti, gamcha and women sari, blouse, kurtha
etc. Muslim women wear burka and men wear kamij, pajamas and cap.

Ornaments are mainly of gold, silver and Shirphul, Limbu Women
precious stones. Women in mountain usually
wear silver and stone ornaments. Tharu
women wear silver bangles and chain with
silver coins etc. Shirphul is a typical ornament
of Limbu women. Makasi on the ear and tayo
or tayal round the neck are typical ornaments
worn by Newari women. Gold ring, chain,
tilahari, naugedi, bangles, pote, chura etc
are some common ornaments among most
of the Nepalese women.

Points to Remember:

F Social customs, the products of societies, are like mirrors which reflect
features of a particular society.

F Nepal is a multi-racial and multi-cultural nation with more than 125
nationalities.

F Borrowing and lending of goods and exchanging of labours during planting
and harvesting and major construction work are very common in rural Nepal.

F Nepal, a multi-religious secular country, has mainly Hinduism, Buddhism,
Islam, Kirat and Christianity etc

F Hindus, who worship images of hundreds of gods, goddesses and deities,
are in majority.

F The Jatakas and the Tripitakas are the main religious scriptures of Buddhism.

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 39

Key Terms and Words:

• Chanting : singing
• Essence: heart, significance
• Image: appearance, figure, representation
• Reciting: narrate, read out loud
• Secular: non-religious
• Scripture: holy religious book
• Trinity: three of something, threesome

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:
1. What is social custom?
2. Mention the name of one important social festival belonging to
Chhetri, Bahun, Rai, Limbu, Gurung, Tharu, Marwadi and Tamang?
3. Mention some religious festivals you know.
4. What is pasni?
5. Mention the religious scriptures of the main religions found in Nepal.
6. Mention the typically different costumes and ornament some
particular Nepali community wear.
7. What are namaz, hajj and roza?

Short answer questions:
1. Mention the main religions practiced in Nepal, and describe one of
them in brief.
2. List out the important social customs of Nepal.
3. Why do you think the social customs differ from community to
community?

Community Based Work:
Make a list of various castes, tribes and religions and their main social
and religious practices found in your community and share with your
friends.

40 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Lesson Respect For National
Integrity, Sovereignty &
2
Unity

Social Studies Teacher: Good Morning Class VII ! We learned about
our social customs in the previous lesson.
Student A: Today, we are going to discuss about
Social Studies Teacher: another very important topic. It is about the
"Respect for National Integrity, Sovereignty,
Student B: Co-existence and Unity."
Social Studies Teacher: Ma’am ! I think it is a very new and interesting
Student C: subject for us. We are very excited. First
Social Studies Teacher: of all, would you please explain us what
‘Sovereignty’ is.
Good question. Our country is an
independent and sovereign country. It
means we are capable and free to decide
things for ourselves. No other country can
dictate us on our state affairs. In simple
words, sovereignty means an independent
identity with its own decision powers.
Ma’am, is sovereignty related with only a
state or country?
Sovereignty is a very broad concept. It is
also related with people. Every individual is
sovereign. That way people are supreme in
democracy. They are independent to decide
their own future.
What are the fundamental elements of
sovereignty? How can it be protected and
strengthened?
Wonderful question! We exist as an
independent nation, we are sovereign and

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 41

Student D: we can decide our own. But, if there is no
self-respect, unity, mutual understanding
Social Studies Teacher: and co-operation among people, then
national independence and sovereignty can
Student E: be threatened or challenged. Divisive forces
Social Studies Teacher: can act against nation’s interest, territorial
integrity and political independence. Foreign
42 powers can violate our national border,
interfere in our state affairs and dictate
their terms. These issues are directly linked
with our nationhood and identity. Hence it is
important that we respect our country, uphold
its dignity, and protect its independence and
sovereignty by fostering self-respect, loyalty
and patriotism.
Ma’am, now we understand that it is the
people who make the difference. It is
important to love, respect and regard our
motherland highly. We should have good
mutual understanding, co-operation and
unite for our country. We become stronger in
unity. Is it right, Ma’am?
You are absolutely right. Every individual
has to realize this and behave accordingly.
Nepal is a common home of all Nepalese.
It is an indivisible, independent, sovereign,
secular, inclusive and democratic nation.
We must feel proud of our country, and to be
Nepalese.
Ma’am, could you please explain a bit about
territorial integrity?
Sure! Territorial integrity means the
wholeness of the country. It means complete
geographical entity and is related with
national border. Our country is indivisible.
We must maintain its territory as has been

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Student F: handed down to us by our forefathers. If a
Social Studies Teacher: country disintegrates, it becomes weaker
and its existence may end. We must not allow
our country to be divided or disintegrated. We
can’t exist as a nation if there is no country.
It is our utmost duty to safeguard and
promote the national and territorial integrity
of our country. A nation is the total sum of
land and people. It’s the people who make
the difference in the country. The people
should feel proud and happy to contribute
to the unity, well-being, peace, harmony and
development of the country.
What is self-respect in terms of a country,
please?
Our country has diverse and rich culture. We
have very old and rich history. Our country
is rich in art and culture. We remained
independent throughout the history. We
are proud to say that our people never
surrendered to any country. Our people are
simple, straight, sincere, forward, honest,
hard-working, loyal, and patriotic. They are
better prepared to die than compromise their
self-respect. Self-respect and self-esteemed
are our pride and identities.
Our country is the land of highest mountain
in the world. It is the birth place of Lord
Buddha, the founder of one of the largest
religious faiths and the light of Asia. We
are member of the committee of nations.
Our country is an active member of the
United Nations Organization, SAARC, and
many more international organizations and
agencies.

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 43

Student G: Ma’am! It has been really an interesting
period. We came to understand so many
important matters. One more question, what
is the role of the government in this regard?

Social Studies Teacher: The state has, of course, very important role
to play. It should create good environment
for its people so that they all live and work
together in peace and harmony. There
should be no discrimination of any kind.
Every citizen should be provided equal
rights and opportunities. All ethnic groups
and their cultures, customs, languages,
religions etc. must be preserved, protected
and promoted. The state should bring every
section of the society into the main stream.

To sum up, united we stand and divided we fall. We must maintain unity in
diversity. This is the only way of promoting and safeguarding our national
and territorial integrity.

The following measures will promote national integration:

(a) Inclusive nature of the state.
(b) Secularism, religious tolerance and social harmony.
(c) Equality among all ethnic groups.
(d) Federalism or sharing of sovereignty.
(e) Empowerment of underdeveloped, underprivileged, disadvantaged

and marginalized people.
(f) Equal distribution of means, resources and national income.
(g) Equal and balanced development of the country.
(h) Good governance, accountability and transparency.
(i) Fulfillment of needs and hopes of the people through judicious

distribution of national income.

44 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Points to Remember:

F Nepal is an independent and sovereign country. She is free to decide her
own course.

F Respect for national integrity, sovereignty, self-respect, and political
independence is what we want.

F Mutual understanding and cooperation strengthen national unity.
F It is the duty of each citizen to love, respect, and uphold the honour,

name and dignity of the nation.
F The state should create environment where all citizens can live and work

together in peace and harmony.
F Cultures, customs, languages, religions of all ethnic groups must be

preserved, protected and promoted.
F If our national interests are challenged, all of us should stand united.

Key Terms and Words:

• Comity: friendliness, harmony, neighbourliness
• Concept: idea
• Dignity: nobility, excellence, status
• Disintegrate: fall apart, reduce to pieces
• Divisive: disruptive, dissenting
• Inclusive: all-embracing
• Integrity: the state of being whole and undivided
• Interactive: influencing each other
• Marginalized: sidelined
• Self-esteem: pride, self-respect

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 45

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:
1. What is sovereignty?
2. What is national integrity?
3. What is territorial integrity?
4. What is self-respect?
5. What is co-existence?

Short answer questions:
1. What are the fundamental elements of national unity?
2. How can we maintain national integrity in our country? Explain.
3. What should we do if our national sovereignty and independence is
challenged?
4. “Nepali people have high level of self-respect.” Justify with historical
examples.
5. ‘Mother and motherland are above heaven’. Explain this statement
with examples.
6. What are there in your country that make you feel proud? List them
and explain one of them.

Community Based Work:
There might be things that make you proud in your locality. List them out,
and write why they make you feel so.

46 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

Lesson Our Culture and Traditions

3

Introduction

Culture is a way of doing something by the people for a long time. It is closely
related with the society, and passed on from generation to generation. Nepal
is rich in culture and traditions. It is as diverse as its geography, vegetation
and people. There live more than
125 ethnic groups and nationalities
in Nepal. Each of them has their own
way of life, language, culture, custom,
tradition, art, music, song, costume
and so on. Nepal, in fact, is a living
museum of cultures.

There are different folk songs, folk
musical instruments, folk dances,
traditional costumes and ornaments
in different parts of our country. Folk Musical Instruments

These are also part of our cultural traditions. Many of them are related with
some particular tribes of people and places. In this lesson, we shall deal
about such diverse aspects of our cultural life.

Folk-Songs
Folk songs (lok-geet) are composed in local languages and sung in the
traditional ways or tunes. Such songs may be supported by local traditional
musical instrument (lok baja). Folk songs reflect the life styles, daily activities,
relations, human sentiments and emotions, socio-economic conditions etc.
They are the part of cultures and traditions of the people.

These songs are performed at various occasions, festivals, ceremonies,
jatras, weddings, journeys, rituals and agricultural seasons. For example:
Deusi-Bhailo is performed at Tihar, Malashree at Dasain, Teej Song at Teej
Parva, Ashare Geet and Bethi songs during paddy planting, Palam, Hakpare
and Tamang Selo during wedding and gathering, Deuda songs, Hori songs,
Lhosar songs etc at festivals of respective people.

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 47

Most of these songs are related with a particular place and /or with a
community. For example: Hakpare and Palam with Rais and Limbus of
Eastern Nepal, Deuda song with the Khas people of Mid-Western and Far-
Western Regions of Nepal, Hori and Asika in the Terai region, Chandi songs
with Rais, Rodhi songs with Gurungs of Western Nepal and Kaura songs with
Magars of Western Nepal, Tamang Selo with Tamangs and so on. Jhyaure
Geet is not related to any particular group of people.

Importance of Folk Songs
Folk songs play important part in our life. They speak cultures, customs,
occupations, life styles, traditions, languages and practices of contemporary
societies. They help us to establish friendship, understanding and relations. They
entertain, refresh and make forget our tiredness, sorrows and sufferings.

Folk songs are very popular among our people. They have appealing lyrics,
tunes, and humorous expressions. They are simple and touching. These
days, such songs are recorded and reproduced commercially. Such songs
are performed at home, abroad, workplace, hotels, restaurants, and during
festivals and ceremonies.

Some Popular Folk Songs

3f]ls{ :ofp/L Uofnd/L jf/L hdg' f, kf/L hdg' f
u]ªnf 6'qmf ;fk|/L hd'gfsf] k]mb}df dgsfdgf

u]ª\ 6q' mftf :ofp/L ;] 9O' s] nflh Rofuf] PsfbzL ahf/d} f
kmGs] /f]6L yfndf xf], PsfbzL ahf/}df
tfdfª ;]nf]
k"j{]nL nfs] uLt

n]ssf] kfgL a];F Lsf] wfg dl] rof lrof sflnsf kfg cfdf lng k7fplF 5g\ afaf lng k7fp5F g\
cfhsf gfgL ef]lnsf ;fg ufp5F f}+ Pp6} /fli6o« ufg dnfO{ lng e/] bfHo} cfp5F \ jl/n}

zflGtsf uLt u~' hL /x"g aHof] lg ld7f] w"g d}n] vfg] b/ cfdf ld7f] u/L ksfplng\
afnaflnsf wtL{sf hg" ======== g}/ uP cfdf slt /fl] ng jl/n}
tLh uLt
em\ ofp/] uLt

48 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7

sf}g} cf]/ hf+ egj} f /fh} sf]g} cf/] hf ega} f dflnsfsf w/' fdLsf] ;Nnf] xf] ls bNnf]

kj" }{ hf+ eg] ;"h]n{ ] vfnf xf,] xf] ======== ;j' fsf] 3/ emfGof af6f] tNnf] xf] sL dNnf]

sfg} } cfu] hf+ eg}jf /fh} em' g+\ eG' of+ j/if' nfUof] sf6o\ f af6f] bsL{

kl5 d} hf eg] jua' fn] vfnf xf] xf] ======= o;} lbg uO{ emfGof x'g\ ls cfpGof xg' \ ls kmsL{

t/fO{ uLt b]p8f uLt

General Information About Jhalakman Ghandharba

Jhalakman Gandharba, born at Batule Chaur Jhalakman Gandharba
of Pokhara on 12 Baisakh 1992 BS, was a
pioneer figure in the field of folk songs. He
started playing ‘Sarangi’ and singing folk
songs from his early childhood. He collected
folk songs from around the villages of Kaski.
One of his most popular songs is, “Amale
sodhlin khoi chhora bhanlin ........... .” This
song made him famous all over the country.
Some of his songs are- Radha Pyari, Dhanko
Bala, and Allare Nani etc. He had recorded
about 250 folk songs. His songs are melodious
and heart touching.

Points to Remember:

F Folk songs are composed in local languages and sung in the traditional
ways or tunes.

F There are more than 125 nationalities and 123 dialects in Nepal.
F Folk songs are performed at various occasions, seasons, festivals,

ceremonies and journeys.
F Folk songs entertain, refresh, make forget us our tiredness, sorrows and

sufferings.

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7 49

Key Terms and Words:

• Classical: humanistic, concerning ancient culture
• Contemporary: living or occurring at the same time
• Dialects: local language
• Minstrels: ballad singer, roaming singer, folk singer
• Pioneer: a person first to explore

Evaluation Activities

Short answer questions:
1. “Folk songs represent the place, culture and language of the
contemporary society.” Explain.
2. What is a ‘folk song’? Name any four folk songs you know.
3. When are folk songs normally sung? Write with examples.
4. Name the festivals and folk songs sung during those festivals.
5. What are the seasonal folk songs of Nepal? Write with examples.
6. Who are the Gandharbas? What types of songs do they sing? Name
the instrument used by them?

Community Based Works:
Collect some folk songs which are sung in your community. Prepare a
short report on them.
There may be a folk singer in your community. Visit him/her and ask
questions about his/her contribution in the field of folk songs then
prepare a report.

50 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 7