Revised Subharmbha social 6 2077 for sir ctp

The Suez Canal separates Asia from Africa and the Bering strait from North
America.

Physical Environment

Landforms: Asia has all types of landforms, climates and natural vegetation
that are found in the world.

The northern part of Asia has
extensive plain land known as
Siberian plains. The plain land
is drained by important rivers
like Ob, Yenesi and Lena. These
rivers drain into the Arctic Ocean.

The central part of Asia is
occupied by lofty mountains and
plateaus. Here lies the highest
mountain peak of the world, Mt River Yenesi

Everest (Sagarmatha), 8,848m.
There is also the highest plateau of the world known as Pamir Knot. It is also
called the Roof of the World. Most of the mountain ranges have their origin
in the Pamir Knot.

The southern part of Asia has three important plateaus. They are plateau of
Arabia, the Deccan plateau of India and the plateau of Yunnan in China.

There are fertile plains
drained by the rivers Hwang
Ho, Yangtze Kiang, Sikiang,
Mekong, Irrawaddy, Indus,
Ganga, Brahmaputra, Tigris and
Euphrates.

Asia is surrounded by many seas River Brahmaputra
like Mediterranean Sea, Caspian
Sea, Black Sea, Red Sea, Arabian
Sea and Yellow Sea.

Climate: The climate of Asia is
influenced by various factors like latitude, altitude, landforms and wind
direction. Asia has all types of climate from extreme hot to freezing cold.

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Equatorial Climate: The southern part of Asia is very close to the equator. It is
very hot and wet throughout the year. The countries like Malaysia, Singapore
and Indonesia have such climate.

Monsoon Climate: Monsoon climate is the result of monsoon wind or
seasonal wind. The wind changes its direction according to season. So it
is hot and wet in summer and cold and dry in winter season. Countries like
Nepal, India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan have such climate.

Desert Climate: There are many
deserts in central and western
parts of Asia. They are desert of
Arabia, Thar in India, the Gobi
and Shamo of Central Asia. It is
extremely hot and dry in these
places throughout the year.

Mediterranean Climate: The Gobi Desert
countries of south west Asia like
Syria, Lebanon, Israel and Turkey
experience such climate. The characteristic of Mediterranean climate is hot-
dry summer and warm- wet winter.

Tundra Climate: The extreme northern part of Asia has Tundra climate which
is extremely cold and dry throughout the year. There is only snowfall instead
of rainfall.

Natural Vegetation: The natural vegetation and climate are very much
interlinked. Asia has almost all the types of natural vegetation.

Areas/ Parts Natural Vegetation & Species of Trees
Extreme North Tundra Vegetation - lichens , mosses, sedges,
flowering plants
South of Tundra Coniferous forest called Taiga- birch, juniper, fir,
Vegetation willow
Western Desert Vegetation- Cactus, thorny bushes, shrubs, Central
Steppes Grassland
South East Deciduous forest- Teak , Sal, Sisau, Deodar
Extreme South Tropical Evergreen Forest- Rubber, Sal, Bamboo, Mahogany

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Social and Economic Life
The continent of Asia is divided into five regions on the basis of social and
economic life.

Northern Region: This region has a vast plain of Siberia. It is not so developed
due to very cold and dry climate. To the south of the vast plain lie the
extensive and nutritious grassland of steppes. So, the main occupations of
the people are agriculture and animal husbandry. People are also engaged
in industry and trade. The density
of population is not so high in this
region.

The South-West Region: This Muslims
region is full of deserts. It is very
dry with poor vegetation except
the fertile plain made by the
rivers Tigris and Euphrates. The
life in the desert is very difficult.
People depend upon camel for
their living and economy. Most of
the people are Muslims.

The Southern Region: The density of population is very high in this region.
The main occupation of the people is agriculture. It is also developing in the
field of industry and trade. South Asian countries lie in this region.

The South East Region: This region is developing rapidly in the field of
industry, trade and business besides
agriculture. The density of population is
very high. Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia,
Indonesia etc are located in this region.

The Eastern Region: This is the most Buddhists
developed region of Asia. This region
is very advanced in industry, trade and
business. The density of population is
very high. China, Korea and Japan are
in this region. Most of the people in this
region are Buddhists.

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Points to Remember:

F Asia is the largest continent among the seven continents of the world.
F There is Arctic Ocean in the north, Indian Ocean in the south, Pacific

Ocean in the east and the continent of Europe and Ural Mountain in
the west of Asia.
F The Suez Canal separates Asia from Africa and the Bering Strait from
North America.
F The northern part of Asia has extensive plain land known as Siberian
plains.
F The central part of Asia is occupied by lofty mountains and plateaus.
F The southern part of Asia has three important plateaus: Arabia, the
Deccan of India and the plateau of Yunnan in china.
F Asia is surrounded by many seas like Mediterranean Sea, Caspian
Sea, Black Sea, Red Sea, Arabian Sea and Yellow Sea.
F Asia has diverse social, economic, topographical and climatic
conditions.

Key Terms and Words:

• Advance: move forward
• Density: the quantity of people in a particular area
• Economy: the state of country in terms of the production and

consumption of goods and services and the supply of money
• Extreme: to the highest degree

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Evaluation Activities

Very Short answer questions

1. Name the extensive plain lying in the northern most part of Asia.
2. What is the highest plateau of the world called in Asia?
3. Name the three main plateaus of Asia.
4. What has influenced the climate of Asia?
5. Which climates are found in the southernmost and northernmost

part of Asia?
6. Which climate is found in Nepal?
7. Name the deserts of Asia.
8. What are the characteristics of Mediterranean Climate?
9. Name the natural vegetation found in Asia.
10. Which part of Asia is most developed?
11. Why is the monsoon wind is also called seasonal wind?

Short answer questions:

1. What is the difference between northern and central part of Asia?
2. Name the rivers that have made fertile plains in Asia.
3. Differentiate between the monsoon and Mediterranean climate.
4. Differentiate between the equatorial and tundra climate.
5. Which part of Asian is not developed and why?
6. Which part of Asia has the highest density of population and why?
7. Why is the lifestyle in desert region very difficult?

Long answer question:
"Asia is a continent of diversity". Justify it.

Community Based Works:

a. Find out how many countries are there in Asia. Write their names
and capitals.

b. Find out the landlocked countries of Asia and write down their
names.

c. Draw an outline map of Asia and locate Nepal on it.

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Lesson Disaster Management

8

Introduction: Disaster
A disaster is a sudden
calamitous event that seriously
disrupts the functioning of a
community or society. It causes
human, material, economic
and environmental losses that
exceed the country’s or society’s
ability to cope using its own
resources.

A disaster can be natural or man-made. It is a phenomenon that can cause
loss of life, property and destroy the economic, social and cultural life of
people. It can cause significant physical damage or destruction, loss of life
or drastic change to the environment. Examples: earthquakes, flood,
landslide, volcano, avalanches, cyclones major accidents etc.

Various phenomena like earthquake,
landslides, volcanic eruptions, floods,
and cyclones are all natural disasters.
They are caused by nature. But some
of the natural disasters like floods
and landslides have been caused
because of human interference. For
example, landslides and floods are
caused because people cut down
trees and destroy the forest which
loosens the soil. Fires, and different accidents etc are examples of man
made disasters.

introduction: Disaster Management
Disaster Management is the management of resources and responsibilities
for dealing with humanitarian aspects of emergencies in order to lessen the
impact of disaster. It includes preparedness, response, relief and recovery.

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Disaster management is basically what we do during and after any disaster
to minimize its damages. As disasters take place unexpected, we are often
caught unprepared. It is a critical period of time. Maximum restraint, calm
and composure are required during disaster management. We should
handle the situation coolly and calmly. We should not get panicked.

Mitigating Measures
Some of the mitigating measures to follow before, during and after the
disasters are as follows:

Flood Mitigating

Before the Disaster During the Disaster After the Disaster

• Be alert and aware • Get pre-assembled • Do not return home
about warning signs. emergency supplies. until authorities
express it is safe to do
• Assemble emergency • If told to leave, do so so.
supplies. immediately.
• Help neighbours who
• Plan and practice for • Don't return home may need assistance.
evacuation route. to see if anything is
missing. • Use extreme caution
• Prepare for when entering
an emergency • If you are in a lonely buildings. Make sure
communication plan place, give indications that the building
in case of separation. by shouting tuning on is not in danger of
the light or waving collapsing.
• Teach family members cloths
how and when to turn • Watch out for animals
off the gas, electricity If outdoors: especially poisonous
and water. • Climb to high ground snakes that may have
come into your home
• Be patience and do and stay there. with flood water.
not panic and advice • Avoid walking
others to do the • Look for loose plaster
same. through any flood and ceiling that could
water. fall.
If indoors: • If advised to evacuate,
• Turn on battery do so immediately to • Throw away all foods
avoid flooded roads. that has come in
operated radio to • Be sure to follow contact with flood
get latest emergency recommended waters.
information. evacuation routes.
• Listen to radio • Properly utilize the
for evacuation available relief
instructions. measures properly.

• Listen to the radio for
instructions.

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Landslide Mitigating

Before the Disaster During the Disaster

• Get a ground assessment of your If indoors:
property.
• Stay inside and get cover under a
• Be aware of landslide warning: sturdy piece of furniture.
Cracks appear in plaster, walls,
ground slopes downward in one If outside:
direction, faint rumbling sound that
increases in volume as landslide • Try to get out of path or mudflow.
nears.
• Run to nearest high ground in a
• Make evacuation plans. direction away from path.

• Develop an emergency • If rocks and other debris are
communication plan and ask friend approaching, run for nearest
or relative to serve as family contact. shelter such as a group of trees or
a building.
• Keep an emergency bag containing
food, medicine, torch, radio, light • If it is not possible to scape, curl into
clothes etc. near the main gate door. a tight ball and protect your head.

Points to Remember:

F A disaster is a sudden calamitous event that seriously disrupts the
functioning of a community or society.

F A disaster can be natural of man-made.
F Disaster management is what we do during and after any disaster to

minimize its damages.
F Disaster doesn’t come by knocking the door. It can occur any time in

any scale.
F It is important to keep ourselves prepared for the most potential

disasters like earthquake, flood, landslide, fire, storm, epidemic,
terrorist acts etc.

Key Terms and Words:

• Assessment: estimate the value, importance
• Avalanche : downhill falling or ice blocks.
• Calamitous: a sudden event causing great damage or distress
• Caution: carefulness, alertness, attentiveness

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Key Terms and Words:

• Cope : Manage, face
• Emergency: serious situation, danger, difficulty
• Evacuate: remove from place of danger to a safer place
• Faint: not clearly seen, heard
• Humanitarian: concerned with human welfare
• Impact: effect, consequence
• Mitigating: decrease, reduce, and lessen
• Panicked : become distressed, lose nerve
• Phenomenon: a fact or situation that is observed to exist or happen
• Restraint : self-control
• Rumbling: make or move with a continuous deep sound, like

thunder
• Sturdy : solid, firm, strong

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:

1. What is a disaster?
2. What is disaster management?
3. What is natural disaster? Give examples.
4. What is man made disaster? Give examples.

Short answer questions:

1. How does human interference can cause natural disaster?
2. What lesson should be taught to the family members during the

floods?
3. How should we behave during the time of disasters?
4. Write the different precautionary measures that we must take during

the disaster.
5. What should we do inside the house when landslides occur?

6. What should we do outside when landslide occurs?

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Long answer questions:

1. Draw two columns as given below. Write the list of activities that

should be done and the activities that should not be done during the

time of disaster. Compare your answer with others.

Activities to be done Activities not to be done

2. Write a letter to your pen pal explaining what s/he should do during
a disaster.

Community Based Work:
Make a team and divide the work to practise the mitigating measures to
be followed during the time of disaster with the help of your teacher in
your class or school once in a while. After the practice, analyze the good
and bad activities. Try to correct the bad activities in the next time.

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UNIT

6

OUR PAST

In this unit, we will learn about the following subjects: 161
• Ancient Nepal: the Kathmandu Valley
• Ancient Nepal: Sinja Valley
• Political Condition of Ancient Nepal
• Social Condition of Ancient Nepal
• Economic Condition of Ancient Nepal
• Ancient Art and Culture of Nepal
• Indus Valley Civilization
• Nile River Civilization

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6

Lesson The Kathmandu Valley

1

Introduction
The Kathmandu Valley is made up of three historic cities: Kathmandu, Lalitpur
(Patan), and Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon). It is the most developed part of Nepal
and capital city of the country. The cities are filled with medieval temples
and palaces. The valley of Kathmandu abounds in tales and legends, stories
that have been handed down from generation to generation.

Kathmandu Lalitpur (Patan) Bhaktapur (Bhadgaon)

Popular Legends
According to one legend, the Kathmandu Valley was a big lake. It was called
Nagdaha (lake of serpents) as it was inhabited by Nagas. It is believed that a
sage called Bipaswi, who lived on the Nagarjun hill in the North West corner
of Nagadaha sowed a lotus seed in the lake on the full moon day. After six
months, a lotus flower bloomed in the lake. It was amazing that an image
of Swayambhu appeared in the lotus flower. Bipaswi began to worship the
image which threw bright rays of lights.
Then, according to Swayambhu Puran, Manjushree came from China and
worshipped Swayambhu. He drained out the water of Nagdaha. A beautiful
valley with rich and fertile soil appeared. It was a suitable place for human
settlement.
Manjushree then founded the city of Manjupatan midway between
Swayambhu and Gujeswari. Then he proclaimed his disciple, Dharmakar,
the ruler of the city. It was also during this era that Krakuchhanda Buddha,
Kaka Muni Buddha and Kashyapa Buddha visited the Kathmandu Valley.

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Being aware that Kaliyug, the Dark Age was drawing nearer, Kanak Muni
Buddha, sent Prachanda Deva, King of Gaur (Bengal), to cover the flaming
image of Swayambhu. So Prachanda Deva built a stupa encasing the sacred
flame of Swayambhu, now known as Swayambhunath Stupa. Prachada Deva
enthroned his cousin Gunakama Deva as the first king of Nepal. After the
rule of Gunakama Deva, Dharmadutta became the king of Nepal. He is said
to have built the temple of Pashupatinath.
According to Hindu legend, a demon filled Kathmandu Valley with water and
turned it into a lake. Lord Krishna came from Mathura in India. He cut through
the lake at Chovar hill with his Sudarshana Chakra to let the water out of the
lake. He then handed the drained valley to the Gopal Banshi people who,
were nomadic cow herders.

Ancient Dynasties

After the rule of Dharmdutta, Gopal Dynasty ruled Nepal. In Sanskrit, ‘Go’
means cow and ‘Pal’ means keeper. So Gopals belonged to the race of
cowherds. Eight kings ruled from this dynasty. The first was king Bhumi
Gupta and the last Yaksha Gupta. They ruled Nepal for about 521years.

Gopal Dynasty was followed by the Mahispal Dynasty or Abhir. The word
Mahispal means those who rear buffaloes. In Sanskrit, "Mahis" means
"buffalo". They were also called Ahir or Abhir. Only three of Mahispal dynasty
ruled for about 161 years. The first king of this dynasty was Jaya Singh and
the last King was Bhuvan Singh. They were defeated by Kirants.

Kirants were tribal hill people who came from the east. The first king of
Kirant Dynasty was Yalambar and the last was Gasti. There were 29 Kirant
kings who ruled Nepal for about 1225 years. They were the longest ruling
dynasty. They were defeated by Lichchhavis.

The Lichchhavis were the Rajput, Kshetriyas Changunarayan Temple
who came from Muzaffapur district of Bihar
in India. They came to Nepal in about 200
AD. Supuspa was the first king of Lichchhavi
Dynasty. AmongtheLichchhavikings,Haridutta
was a famous king. He built four Narayan
Temples: Changunarayan, Bishankhunarayan,
Shesnarayan and Ichangkhunarayan. He also
built Budanilkantha temple.

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Mandev was the most famous historical Lichchhavi king among all the
Lichchhavi rulers. He was a ruler of considerable talent and abilities. Pagoda
style structure came into existence during this period. Amshuverma, Shiva Dev
and Narendra Dev were the other famous Lichchhavi kings. The Lichchhavis
were rich in art and culture. They maintained good relationship with Tibet,
China and India. They improved trade and made all round development of
the country. So the Lichchhavi period is often called the "Golden Period"
in the history of Nepal. The last Lichchhavi ruler was Jayakamadeva. The
Lichchhevis were defeated by Mallas, most of the renowned temples,
stupas, images and palaces of Nepal were made during these two periods.
The Kathmandu Valley was known as the Nepal Valley during Malla Period.
After the unification of Kathmandu in 1825, Prithivi Narayan Shah made
Kathmandu the capital of unified kingdom. He ruled from Basantapur
Palace. Later he constructed the Nautale Durbar in Basantapur.

Points to Remember:

F The Kathmandu Valley consists of three historic cities: Kathmandu,
Patan and Bhaktapur.

F The cities of the Kathmandu valley are filled with medieval temples
and palaces.

F According to one legend, the Kathmandu Valley used to be a big lake,
called Nagdaha.

F According to Swayambhu Puran, Manjushree came from China and
drained out the water of Nagdaha and the valley suitable for human
settlement.

F According to Hindu legend, Lord Krishna cut the lake at Chhovar,
drained out the water of the lake and made settled down Gopals (cow
herders).

F Gopals were the first rulers of Nepal followed by Mahispal or Ahirs
and Kirats.

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Key Terms and Words:

• Abound : exist in abundance, be all over the place
• Legend: folk tale
• Emanate: come or spread out from
• Encase: enclose or cover in a case
• Proclaimed : made known, declared

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:

1. Name the historic cities of Kathmandu Valley.
2. What was Nagdaha?
3. Who built the Swayambhunath Stupa?
4. Why is the soil of Kathmandu valley very rich and fertile?
5. Who was the first king of Nepal?
6. Who built the temple of Pashupatinath?
7. Name the dynasties who ruled Nepal in the ancient time?
8. Who was the most famous historical Lichchhavi King of Nepal??

Short answer questions:

1. How was Kathmandu Valley originated according to Buddhist belief?
2. How was Kathmandu Valley originated according to Hindu belief?
3. How did Swayambhunath Stupa emerged?
4. Who built the four Narayan temples? What are they?
5. Which period is called the golden period in the history of Nepal and

why?
6. Name the first and last kings of the various dynasties that ruled

Nepal.
7. Write about the origin of Kathmandu Valley in the form of a legendary

story.

Community Based Work:
Make a visit to any of the historical places close to your home, school or
locality. Gather information through various sources. Prepare an article
on it and present it in the class.

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Lesson Ancient Nepal:
The Sinja Valley
2

Students: Good Morning, Sir!

Teacher: Good Morning Children! We studied about ancient valley of
Kathmandu yesterday. Today, we will study about another Valley
called Sinja.

Student: Sir! Where is Sinja Valley? What’s its importance?

Teacher: Okay! Listen carefully. Before the unification of Nepal, there was
a powerful kingdom in
the west of Kathmandu
in Karnali region known
as Khas Empire. Its
capital was in Sinja
Valley. The boundary of
Khas Empire extended
upto Gandaki River in
the east, Kumon and
Garwal in the west, Tibet
Sinja Valley

in the north and Terai in
the south. At present, Sinja Valley lies in Jumla district of Karnali
Zone in Mid-Western Development Region.

Student: Sir, who established the Khas kingdom?

Teacher: Very good question. There was a person named Nagraj, who
came to Karnali region from Khaari province of Tibet. He was the
one to establish the Khas Kingdom with its capital in the Sinja
Valley, Jumla. He was a powerful king. He extended the territory
of his kingdom far and wide. He brought cultural and economic
reforms. The inscriptions written on the pillar of Kirti and Dullu
(Dailekh) prove that King Nagraj brought a lot of reforms during
his rule.

Student: Sir, at present, Jumla is considered as a very backward district
of Nepal, isn’t it?

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Teacher: Yes, it is. But if we look
into the past, Jumla
had its own glorious
history. It had a rich
and important historical
background.

Student: Sir, could you tell us why
the history of Sinja valley
is important for us?
Jumla

Teacher: The Nepali language
which we speak today has its origin in the Sinja Valley or the
capital of the Khas Empire. So, Nepali language is also called
the Khas language.

Student: Oh! We didn’t know this. Now we understand why the Sinja
Valley is so important in our history. Who were the other rulers
after King Nagraj?

Teacher: The other Khas kings after Nagraj were Kra Challa, Ashok Challa,
Jitari Malla, Aditya Malla, Punya Malla, Prithivi Malla, Ripu Malla
and Avaya Malla.

Student: Sir is there any difference between Challa and Malla? How did
Challa become Malla?

Teacher: King Jitari Challa (Malla) attacked Kathmandu Valley for three
times. Instead of writing Challa, he wrote Malla as his surname

Kathmandu Valley 167
Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6

during his third attempt to conquer Kathmandu Valley. This
paved the way for the future rulers to change their surname
from Challa to Malla. It is said that besides Jitari Malla, Aditya
Malla and Punya Malla also attacked Kathmandu Valley. But,
they couldn’t succeed. During their visit, they offered prayers
at the Pasupatinath, Swaymbhunath and other temples. It is
believed that Ripu Malla had organized a feast for the residents
of the valley.

Student: Sir, what about the art, culture and civilization of Sinja Valley?

Teacher: I have already told you that Khas Empire had extended territory.
It was a prosperous empire. Sinja Valley as the capital was a
center of art, culture and civilization. The historical monuments
like Dewal Stupa, Meorrah Khamba, stone inscription and a pillar
prove that Sinja Valley was a prosperous historical kingdom.
You know, Sinja Valley has been proposed as a World heritage
site by the Government of Nepal to the UNESCO because of its
archaeological significance. So, It is in UNESCO's tentative list.
Let's be hopeful.

Student: Sir, Thank You for explaining the lesson so well.

Points to Remember:

F Once, there was a very powerful kingdom in the west of Kathmandu
in Karnali region known as Khas Empire, whose capital was in the
Sinja Valley.

F The Khas Empire was established by a person named Nagraj, who
came from Tibet.

F The Khas Empire was extended far and wide up to Gandaki in the
east,Kumaon and Garwal in the west, Tibet in the north and Terai in
the south.

F At present, Sinja Valley lies in Jumla district of Karnali Zone in mid-
Western Development Region.

F Nepali language which is also called Khas language has its origin in
the Sinja Valley.

F Sinja Valley as the capital of the Khas Empire was a center of art,
culture and civilization.

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Key Terms and Words:

• Contribution: give in order to help achieve
• Empire: a large group of states ruled by a single monarch or ruling

authority
• Inscription: word or symbol written inscribed on a monument.
• Monument: a statue or structure to commemorate a person or event
• Prosperous: rich and successful

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:
1. How big was the Khas Empire?
2. Where was the Khas Empire located?
3. Who founded the Khas Empire?
4. What were the boundaries of the Khas Empire?
5. Where was the capital of the Khas Empire located?
6. Who was Nagraj? Where did he come from?

Short answer questions:
1. What unique history does the present Jumla district carry?
2. Name the kings, other than Nagraj, who ruled the Khas Empire?
3. How the surname Challa was replaced by Malla?
4. What proves that Sinja Valley was rich in art, culture and civilization?
5. Which ancient kingdom of Nepal can you compare Sinja Valley with?
6. Why was the Nepali language called Khas Bhasha or Sinjali Bhasha?

Community Based Work:
Prepare an article about Jumla district covering physical, social, economic
and cultural aspects.

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Lesson Political Condition of
Ancient Nepal
3

Introduction
In ancient period, the designation ‘Nepal’ was largely applied only to the
Kathmandu Valley. Thus up to the unification of the country, Nepal’s history
is largely the history of Kathmandu Valley. We do not have any authentic
records or evidences of the history of ancient period of Nepal.

The Vamshavalis or chronicles, religious books, folklore, legends are the
only sources for Nepal’s ancient history. The Vamshavalis mention the rule
of several dynasties, the Gopals, the Abhirs and the Kirants over a stretch
of centuries.

The documented history of Nepal begins only with the Lichchhavi dynasty.
Thus, in the history of Nepal, the period up to the Lichchhavi Dynasty is
called the ancient period. Before Lichchhavi period there are no sufficient
evidences regarding the history of Nepal.

Swyambhunath
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The dynasties which ruled Nepal in an ancient period were:

a. The Gopals b. The Abhirs or Mahispals

c. The Kirats d. The Lichchhavis.

The Gopals: In ancient time, plenty of grasses were available in the
Kathmandu Valley. So, it is believed that Gopals came to Nepal from Mathura
in India with their cows. Later on, they started to rule over the valley. Animal
husbandry was their main occupation. They reared cows. Gopal is also one
of the names of Lord Krishna. The Gopals were also called ‘neep’ or ‘nep’. It
is said that ‘Nepal’ was named after them. Bhumi Gupta was the first king of
Gopal dynasty. Eight Gopal kings ruled Nepal for about 521 years. The last
Gopal king was Yakshya Gupta.

The Abhirs or Mahispals: The Gopal dynasty was followed by Abhirs or
Mahispal Dynasty. They ruled for 161 years. They were defeated by the
Kirants.

The Kirats: Kirat Dynasty ruled Nepal for about 1225
years. Altogether there were 29 kings. Yalambar was
the first and Gasti was the last Kirant king of Nepal.
Kirants were not only good warriors but also good
administrators. The Kirat kingdom during the rule of
Yalambar had extended up to Tista river in the east
to Trisidi in the west. Criminals were given severe
punishments. Law courts were established to give
justice to the people. Ashoka, the emperor of India
visited Nepal during the rule of Kirants. Emperor
Ashoka had erected four stupas in Patan, and Ashoka Pillar in Lumbini.

The Lichchhavis:They are said to have migrated into Nepal from north
India in around 250 AD. There was peace and prosperity in the kingdom
of Nepal during the rule of Lichchhavi Dynasty. The Lichchhavis were good
administrators. They brought many changes in the administrative and political
condition of the country. They built ’Mangriha’ and ‘Kailaskut Bhawan’ from
where they ruled the country. They extended the boundary of Nepal far and
wide. They maintained good relationship with China, Tibet and India.

For the efficient administration of the country, the Lichchhavis set up a council
of ministers headed by Mahasamanta. For administrative convenience, the
country was divided into provinces, districts and villages. There were law

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6 171

courts to administer justice. Learned men were consulted to make laws.
Punishments were given according to the gravity of offence. There were
different forms of punishments. But most of them were reformative types.
Thieves, robbers, murderers and rebels were punished severely. They
adopted Panchayat System of Administration. There were local bodies called
the ‘Panchali’ to settle minor disputes and to carry out public utility services.
The administrative power was not centralized but was passed to the local
bodies.
The Lichchhavis had a well-organized army. They maintained good
relationship with the neighbouring countries. Nepal had trade relation with
India, Tibet and China. Amshuverma got his daughter Bhrikuti marred to the
Tibetan King Tsrong Tsang Gampo and his sister Bhoga Devi to Indian King
Shur Sen. All these resulted in good relationship with Tibet, China and India.
Such relationship helped Nepal to be known to the rest of the world. Nepal
became a thoroughfare for trade and diplomacy between India and China.
There was all round development in political, social and economic fields in
the country. Thus, Lichchhavi period is known as the ‘Golden Period’ in the
history of Nepal.

Points to Remember:

F In ancient period, the word Nepal used to mean only the Kathmandu
Valley.

F There lacks authentic records or evidences of the history of ancient Nepal.
F Vamshavalis, religious books, folklore, legends are the only sources

of Nepal’s ancient history.
F Vamshavalis mention the rule of the Gopals, the Abhirs and the

Kirants over a stretch of centuries.
F The documented history of Nepal begins only with the Lichchhavi

dynasty.
F The Lichchhavis, who were able administrators, brought many

administrative and political changes, and had established good
relations with both India and China.
F The Lichchhavi period is known as the golden period in the history of
Nepal.

172 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6

Key Terms and Words:

• Authentic: genuine, not false or copied
• Chronicle: a historical accounts or events arranged in order of time
• Folklore: traditional beliefs, stories passed from one generation to the next
• Legend: a story from the past that is believed by many people but

cannot be proved to be true
• Offence: a violation of a law, rule
• Rebels: a person who rises arms against the government or ruler of

his/her country
• Thoroughfare: a passage or way through

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:

1. When was the documented history of Nepal started?
2. Which period is known as an ancient period in Nepal?
3. Name the ancient dynasties of Nepal.
4. Where did Gopals come from?
5. How long and how many Kirant Kings ruled Nepal?
6. With which countries did Nepal have good relation during Lichchhavi

rule?
7. During which dynasty Nepal was known to the rest of the world?
8. What is Panchali?
9. What kind of administrative systems did Lichchhavi rulers adopt?

Short answer questions:

1. What are the sources of ancient history of Nepal?
2. Where did Kirat come from? How did they rule?
3. How was the administrative works during the time of Lichchhavi

rule?
4. Howdid theLichchhavis maintain goodrelationship with neighbouring

countries?
5. What is the great contribution of Amshuverma?
6. Lichchhavi Period is called the ‘Golden Period’ in the history of

Nepal? Explain.

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Lesson Social Condition of
Ancient Nepal
4

Nepal did not emerge as a true nation until the later part of the eighteenth
century. ’Nepal’ only meant to the Kathmandu Valley before the eighteen
century. It didn’t mean the whole country as it is known as Nepal today.
Historical chronicles known as the ‘Bamshawalis’ are the only oldest known
documents when it comes to ancient Nepal. Many dynasties ruled over
Nepal in the ancient period. Among them, the Kirant rule is very significant,
being the longest period. In ancient Hindu scriptures, Nepal is referred as
the ‘Kirant Desh’ or the ‘Land of Kitants’.

Kirat people are originally from Nepal. They
are indigenous people of Mongolian origin with
stout and short stature, high cheekbones, flat
noses, narrow black eyes and thin mustaches
and beards. Kirats were strong and well
organized people. Their society was well
developed. They had a free and open society.
There was no gender discrimination. They used
to live in a joint family. Their main occupation
was agriculture and rearing domestic animals. Kirats worshipped Lord
Shiva as Kirateswar Mahadev. They also worshipped ancestors and Mother
Nature. They worshipped the Sun,
the Moon, trees, rivers, stones
and animals. Their ancestors are
known as Paruhang and Sumnima.
The holy book of Kirat is called the
Sirijanga Script Mundhum. Kirats used to observe

festivals to thank the Mother
Nature during the time of sowing and harvesting crops.

Buddhism also flourished under the Kirants. Gautama Buddha visited
Kathmandu Valley with his disciples during the rule of 7th Kirat King Jitedasti.
Kirat people had their own script called ’Sirijanga Script’ after the name
of Sirijanga, who introduced this script. The Kirants had built many towns.

174 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6

Shankhamul, Matatirtha, Thankot, Khopasi, Khopung (Bhadgaon), Teku and
Sanga were some of the prosperous cities with dense population. Nepal
exchanged its culture and civilization with India, Tibet and China during the
rule of Kirat. Thus it can be said that Kirat period had paved a way for further
development and progress of Nepal.

Lichchhavis, who succeeded the Kirats, were Hindus. There was caste
system in the society. People were
divided into four castes: Brahman,
Kshatriya, Vaishya and Shudra. People
lived simple and pious lives. There was
the system of joint family. Ornaments,
house decoration and entertainments
formed part of the daily life of the people.
Both male and female wore ornaments.
The wrestling and bull fighting used to Changunaryan

be means of entertainment. There was
the system of polygamy in the society. King Mandev had three wives: they
were Bhogini, Gunawati and Kshem Sundari. Satee system was in practice
but not compulsory.

There was religious tolerance. Even in the same family, people worshipped
different deities. People used to observe various Jatras, festivals and
ceremonies. Sanskrit was the official language. There was great development
of art and architecture. Mangriha, Kailaskut Bhawan, Bhadraniwas, temple
of Changunarayan are the examples of such fine arts and architecture.
Similarly the images of Tribikram Narayan, Dhumbarahi and the metal works
and crafts speak the excellence of Nepalese art of the Lichchhavi period.

In this way Nepal made all- Arts of Lichchhavis Period
round development under the
Lichchhavis. The Nepalese
civilization and culture was spread
to India, Tibet and China. There was
peace, prosperity and harmony in
the society. There was development
of art and architecture and
friendly relation with neighbouring
countries.

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6 175

Points to Remember:

F The term ‘Nepal’ used to mean only the Kathmandu Valley in earlier
period.

F Nepal used to be known as ‘Kirat Desh’ during the Kirat Rule, the
longest in the history of Nepal.

F Kirats were indigenous people of Mongolian origin with stout and
short stature, high cheekbones, flat noses, narrow black eyes and
thin mustaches and beards.

F Kirats used to worship Lord Shiva or Kirateswar Mahadev as their
ancestor, and the nature.

F Kirats had free and open society with their own script, art and culture.
F Shankhamul, Matatirtha, Thankot, Khopasi, Khopung ( Bhadgaon),

Teku and Sanga were some of the prosperous cities during the Kirat
Rule.
F Lichchhavis were Hindus, who practiced caste system.
F Lichchhavis were pious, religiously tolerant and rich in art and culture.
F Art and architectures, socio-economic condition and foreign relations
flourished during the Lichchhavis Rule.

Key Terms and Words:

• Depict: to show in a picture, painting, photograph, to describe in words
• Document: a piece of written or printed matter that provides information

or evidence
• Flourish: grow or develop in a healthy way
• Indigenous: native
• Pious: devoted, dedicated
• Stout: fat or heavy built
• Stature: natural height

176 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:
1. When was Nepal emerged as a true nation?
2. What is the oldest known documents of ancient period called?
3. What is Nepal referred as in Hindu scriptures?
4. What did the Kirants worship Lord Shiva as?
5. Who were the ancestors of the Kirants?
6. What is the holy book of Kirant called?
7. What is the Kirant script known as?
8. What were the division of castes during Lichchhavi period?
9. What was the official language during the Lichchhavi period?
10. What formed the part of the daily life of the Lichchhavi period?

Short answer questions:
1. How was the society of Nepal during the time of Kirant rule?
2. How did Kirant follow their religion?
3. How can you say that Buddhism flourished during the time of Kirant
rule?
4. What are the names of towns built during the time of Kirant rule?
5. What was the social condition during the time of Lichchhavi period?
6. How can you say that there was development of art and architecture
during the rule of Lichchhavi period?
7. Write four positive Points about the social condition of Lichchhavi period.

Long answer questions
1. Draw two separate columns and differentiate the social conditions
of Kirant and Lichchhavi dynasty.
2. Write a paragraph on "Social condition of Ancient Nepal".

Community Based Work:
a. Conduct a debate competition on the subject: “Modern society is
better than ancient society.”
b. Identify the following.

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6 177

Lesson Economic Condition of
Ancient Nepal
5

Nepal had a sound economic condition during the ancient period. The main
occupation of the people was agriculture. There were some cottage industries,
trade and business as well. Trade and commerce flourished during the rule
of the Kirats. The trade and business was based on barter system. Nepal
had trade relations with Tibet, China and India. They exported wool, woolen
goods, timber and herbs. The people had to pay taxes. The tax office was
called Kuther Adda. Chanakya had mentioned in his famous book: Kautilya
Arthasastra” that Nepali blankets had a big demand in Magadh, now Bihar.
The Lichchhavis made great progress in agriculture, trade and industry.
The main source of income of the government was taxation. The merchants
had to pay custom duty for the import and export of goods. The vanquished
countries had to pay tribute and war indemnity. The cultivators had to pay
land revenue.
Nepalese arts and handicraft goods and other cottage industry products
were exported to Tibet, India and China. Some roads were paved with bricks.
Horses, elephants and mules were the main means of transport. In the
hills, people carried goods on their backs. People wore ornaments of gold,
silver and copper. In this way, Nepal had a sound economic condition under
Lichchhavis.
During the Lichchhavi period, the barter system was changed into monetary

system. King Mandev introduced the first
coin called Mananka. It made the trade easy
for the people. The goods like, iron, yak tail,
wool, kasturi, copper pots were not allowed
to be exported without the permission of the
government.
There was good co-operation among the
people. Works were carried out efficiently according to division of labour.
There were organizations to conduct different types of works. They were
called Gosthi (Trustee). There was Panya Gosthi to manage water, Pradhan
Gosthi to manage the transport and Mogarjan Gosthi to keep the roads

178 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6

clean. Such Gosthis are still in practice today and they are called Guthi. There
was a separate Gosthi to conduct every day worshipping and to manage
local fairs.

Points to Remember:

F Nepal had a sound economic condition during the ancient period.
F Agriculture, animal husbandry, cottage industry and trade were the

main occupations.
F Nepal, which exported wool, woolen goods, timber and herbs, had

good trade relations with Tibet, China and India.
F Monetary system was introduced during the rule of Lichchhavi King

Mandev.
F There was division of works and administrative offices called Gosthi

(Trustee) to conduct different types of works under the rule of the
Lichchhavis.

Key Terms and Words:

• Custom duty: a tax levied on imports and exports of goods from one
country to another

• Indemnity: security against damage, loss or injury
• Merchant: a person who buys and sells commodities for profit
• Prosperity: well to do, well off, having success
• Tribute: gratitude, respect or admiration
• Vanquish: to defeat or conquer in battle

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6 179

Evaluation Activities

Very Short answer questions:
1. What was the main occupation of people in the ancient period?
2. With whom did Nepal have trade relation during the Kirat period?
3. What did the people export during the Kirat period?
4. What was Kuther Adda?
5. Name the famous book written by Chanakya.
6. What was the main source of income during the Lichchhavi period?
7. What did merchants have to pay during the Lichchhavi rule?
8. What did the vanquished countries have to pay during the Lichchhavi
rule?
9. What means of transport were used during the Lichchhavi period?
10. What is Mananka?
11. What were Gosthis?

Short answer questions:
1. Why did Nepal have a sound economic condition during the
Lichchhavi period?
2. Why did the trade become easy during the Lichchhavi period?
3. How did the people co-operate and work during the Lichchhavi
period?
4. Write in brief about the economic condition of Kirat period.

Long answer questions:
1. Prepare a dialogue on “Economic condition of ancient Nepal.”

Community Based Work:
Compare and write about the economic condition of ancient and modern
Nepal.

180 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6

Lesson Ancient Art and
Culture of Nepal
6

Art is the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination,
typically in a visual form such as painting, sculpture and architecture.

Culture includes the beliefs, behaviors, objects and other characteristics
common to the members of a particular group or society.

Nepal, though a small country, is very rich in art and culture .The ancient
art and culture of Nepal is greatly influenced by the religious belief and the
culture of Nepalese people. It is believed that the Nepalese art of painting
was introduced in Nepal during Lichchhavi period. The earliest examples
of Nepalese paintings are in the
form of manuscript illustrations
on palm leaves. They mostly
consist of images of gods and
goddesses. The earliest known
illustrated manuscript is the
‘Astasahasrika Prajnaparamita’ astasahasrika prajnaparamita

which dates back to 1015 AD.

Another form of ancient painting of
Nepal is Thanka paintings. These
paintings, which originated in Nepal,
are known as Pauva in Newari and
Thanka in Tibetan. These paintings are
drawn on clothes which could be rolled
up and easily carried. They became
very popular in the ninth century. A
good example of a Thanka Painting is
the ‘Mandala of Vishnu’ which dates
back to 1420 AD.

The ancient sculptures carry an Thanka Painting

interesting history of Nepal. All the early
sculptures were religious in nature. These sculptures were made from stone,
copper and bronze. The Lichchhavi period was the Golden period of Nepalese

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6 181

sculpture.SculptureofBaman
Tribikram is considered to be
the oldest sculpture of Nepal.
Likewise, the sculptures of
Birupakchya and Yakshya
are also among the ancient
sculptures of Nepal. Similarly,
Harihar of Nakshal, Baraha
of Chandol, Bijeshowri
Bhagwati of Palanchok are
the excellent examples of
ancient sculptures.

Nepalese architecture is
another art and cultural
heritage of our country.
Lichchhavi rulers always Birupakchya

encouraged the art and
architectures. The palaces, temples and vihars of that period depict artistic
skill and beauty. The
Kailaskut Bhawan, the
palace of Amshuverma
was highly appreciated
by the Chinese traveler
Wang Hue Tshe. Huien
Tsang, another Chinese
traveler, had described
Kailaskut Bhawan as the
most wonderful palace.
Similarly the ancient
palaces, Mangriha
of Lichchhavi king
Mandev, Bhadraniwas Boudhanath Chaitya

of Naredradev, the
temple of Pashupatinath, Changunarayan, Boudhanath Chaitya and
Charumati Vihar are the excellent examples of ancient architectures.

Nepal has been always a religious country. Nepal’s culture dates back to
several thousand years. To know about Nepali culture, we have to travel

182 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6

back to ancient Nepal. A remarkable feature of Nepali culture is religious
harmony since historical time. Ancient temples, stupas, sacred paintings
and images are its examples. Nepal has several ancient pilgrimage sites
which are praised by foreign tourists. We have to preserve them because
they have their own historical and cultural significance. We can learn many
things from these arts and architectures.

Points to Remember:

F Art is the expression of human creative skill and imagination in a
visual form such as painting, sculpture and architecture.

F Nepal, though a small country, is very rich in art and culture.
F Ancient Nepali art and culture is greatly influenced by the religion and

the culture of the people.
F Astasahasrika Prajnaparamita’, which dates back to 1015 AD, is the

earliest illustrated manuscript.
F Thanka painting, also known as Pauva painting,is the original painting

skill of Nepal.
F Sculpture of Baman Tribikram is considered to be the oldest sculpture

of Nepal.
F Pashupatinath, Changunarayan, Boudhanath Chaitya and Charumati

Vihar are the excellent examples of ancient architectures.

Key Terms and Words:

• Application: use, exercise, apply
• Architecture: the art of designing and constructing buildings
• Illustration: the act of clarifying or explaining
• Manuscript: a handwritten work
• Sculpture: the art of shaping figures or designs by carving stone or

wood or by casting metal

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6 183

Evaluation Activities

Very Short answer questions:
1. What has influenced the art and culture of Nepal?
2. When was Nepali art of painting introduced?
3. Name the earliest known manuscript of Nepal.
4. Name the important Thanka painting of ancient period.
5. Name the oldest sculpture of Nepal.
6. Name the ancient architecture admired by the Chinese traveler,
Huien Tsang.

Short answer questions:
1. Define ‘Art’ and ‘Culture’.
2. What was the earliest form of Nepali painting?
3. Write in brief about Thanka painting.
4. What is sculpture? Name the ancient sculptures of Nepal.
5. What is the remarkable feature of Nepali culture?

Community Based Work:
Visit any historical or religious places or the museum. Prepare a note on
it and present it in the class for discussion.

184 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6

Lesson Indus Valley
Civilization
7

Introduction
Indus Valley civilization is also known as Indus Civilization or Harappa
civilization. It developed 4,500 to 5,000 years ago. It is one of the world’s
three earliest civilizations; the other two are those of Mesopotamia and Egypt.
The Indus Valley Civilization is known to have comprised of two large cities,
Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro and more than 100 towns and villages. These
two cities were situated on the banks of Indus River and its tributaries. These
two cities were excavated and identified in 1921 and 1922 respectively.
Indus Valley Civilization includes most of Pakistan and parts of North-West
India, Afghanistan and Iran. It was spread to a large area covering about
1,260,000km. It is one of the largest known ancient civilizations.

Cities:

Indus Valley civilization had some kind of
centralized state. There was extensive town
planning. The cities were well organized and
built with baked bricks of the same size.
Harappa was surrounded by 15 meters
high and 12 meters wide brick built walls
whereas Mohenjo-Daro was surrounded Mohenjo-Daro

by 11 meters of wide brick walls. The water supply, drainage system and
sewerage were well planned and far more advanced. The roads were straight
and wide and they cut one another at right angles.

Houses:
People of that ancient period were considered to be good designer and
builder. The building had two or more stories. Baked bricks were used in
the construction of buildings. Houses were well protected from noise and
thieves. Each house opened out into the inner courtyard and smaller lanes.
So, the house remained safe. Although some houses were large and some
small, there was equality in the society. The houses had separate rooms for
different purposes. Individual homes or groups of homes obtained water

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6 185

from wells and bathroom. There were public baths too. There was a large
pond in Mohenjo-Daro where general people could bath. There was a drain-
pipe for the out flow of the dirty water. The houses were also made for the
workers. There was a crematorium to dispose the dead bodies.

Dresses and Ornaments:
Both men and women dressed in colourful robes woven from cotton and
wool. They were fond of wearing ornaments of gold, silver, copper and
precious stones. They wore ornaments like finger rings, necklaces, beads,
bracelets, bangles and anklets. Women wore headdress. Men kept long hair
and short beard.

Education:
The civilization was literate and possesses script with some 250 to 500
characters. They developed writing system which was used several hundred
years. However, unlike some other ancient civilization, we are unable to read
the words written.

Religion:
Excavated evidence suggests that Indus Valley Civilization worshipped Lord
Shiva. People also seem to have worshipped animals like the tiger, the bull,
the goat and the snake and also the Peepal and Neem tree. Many seals
reveal the symbol of Swastika which is also found in other religions like
Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. People also worshipped the Sun as their
greatest God. Dove was considered a sacred bird.

Occupation:
The people of Indus Valley Civilization farmed, herded, hunted, gathered
and fished. The main occupation was agriculture, industry and trade.
People cultivated wheat, barley, peas, mustard, sesame and cotton. They
domesticated animals like dogs, cats, cattle, sheep, camels and buffalos
and horses. Fish were caught in the river. They had a large central storage
building for storing harvested grain known as Great Granary.
People were engaged in cottage industries. The cotton and woolen dresses
are the example to reveal their skill in weaving. They possessed high technical
skill in making silver, copper and brass pots and various types of ornaments.
The economy of Indus Valley Civilization was largely based on trade which
was facilitated by advance transport. They used camels, oxen and elephants

186 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6

to travel over land. They also used bullock carts and ships as a means of
transport and trade. They had trade relation not only with India and Pakistan
but also with other countries. They used to trade gold, silver, copper, shells
and timber.

Entertainment:
In the ancient city of Mohenjo-Daro, the excavation have found the remains
of a large central pool known as Great bath. This could have been a public
swimming pool or perhaps used for religious ceremonies. There are small
rooms around the central pool which might have been used as dressing rooms.
The other means of entertainments were animal fighting and playing dice.
Axes, daggers, knives, spears, clubs, bows and arrow were their weapons,
From all these evidences and proofs, we know that they were highly civilized
and advanced race of people.

Points to Remember:

F Indus Valley civilization, which developed 4,500 to 5,000years ago, is
also known as Indus Civilization or Harappa civilization.

F World’s three of the earliest civilizations are : Egyptian, Mesopotamia
and Indus.

F Harappa civilization is one of the largest known ancient civilizations.
F There was extensive town planning, well laid streets, water supply,

drainage and sewerage system.
F Indus civilization was literate and possesses script with some 250 t0

500 characters.
F The people of Indus Valley Civilization farmed, herded, hunted,

gathered and fished.

Key Terms and Words:

• Civilization: a system of human social development
• Crematorium: a place for burning dead bodies.
• Dice : cubes, counters
• Excavate: dig out from the ground
• Robes: a loose outer garment reaching to the ankles
• Sewerage: the provision of carrying off drainage water and waste

matter through an underground pipe.

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6 187

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:
1. When was the Indus Valley Civilization developed?
2. Which two cities comprise Indus Valley Civilization?
3. Where was the Indus Valley Civilization developed?
4. How much area did the Indus Valley civilization cover?
5. What materials were used to build houses and buildings in that
ancient period?
6. What kind of dresses were worn by the people at that time?
7. What were the main occupations of the people of Indus Valley
Civilization?
8. What were Great Granary and Great Bath?
9. What did the people grow at that ancient period?
10. What were the means of transportation used by the Indus Valley
Civilization?

Short answer questions:
1. What were the houses and cities like in the Indus Valley civilization?
2. Describe the dresses and ornaments worn by the people in that
civilization.
3. What were the occupations followed by the people of Indus Valley?
4. Write in brief about Indus Valley Civilization under the following
headings:
a. Education
b. Religion
c. Entertainment.
d. Occupation

Community Based Work:
Find out about any such historical places of Nepal that can be compared
with Indus Valley Civilization. Prepare a note on it and present in the
class.

188 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6

Lesson Nile River Civilization

8

Introduction
River Nile is the longest river of
the world. It lies in Egypt in Africa.
The civilization that developed in
Egypt along the banks of river Nile
is called Nile River Civilization or
Egyptian Civilization. The annual
flooding of the river deposited
fertile soil over the land creating
ideal flood plain for growing crops.
The long, narrow and fertile flood
plain became the attraction for
people and animals. The Nile
River Valley is truly a gift to Egypt. Without its water and rich soil, the Nile
Valley Civilization or Egyptian civilization would not have emerged. So, this
civilization is rightly called "The Gift of The Nile". The evidence suggests that
Nile Valley region was inhabited as far as 7,000 years ago.

Society
The ancient Egyptian society was divided into three classes. The upper class
included the kings, priests, the officials and landlords. The middle class
included the merchants, skilled craftsmen and professional people. The
lower class included slaves and labourers.

Foods
The majority of the ancient Egyptians were involved in farming. They
discovered irrigation system to irrigate their fields. Livestock was important
to the Egyptian economy as they supplied meat, milk, hides and dung for
cooking fuel. The agricultural lands were owned by the king, his officials
and the temples. Farmers worked on the field and grew crops. They were
allowed to keep portion of the crops. Wheat and barley were the staple food
of the people. Grains were harvested and stored in granaries. The quantities

Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6 189

harvested each season far exceed the need of the country. The excess
grains were exported to neighbouring countries providing a rich source of
income for the Egyptian treasury. Large varieties of fruits and vegetables
were grown. They reared domestic animals like pigs, sheep and goats.

Shelter
Most houses were made of bricks. The banks of the river Nile provided the
mud to make bricks. The farmers used to live in simple mud-brick homes.
Craft workers lived in one-or-two storey flat-roofed homes made of mud and
brick. The wealthy people lived in larger and luxurious homes.

Clothing
The ancient Egyptians were very concerned about cleanliness and personal
appearance. Both men and women used cosmetics and jewelry. They wore
ornaments like bracelets, rings, earrings, necklaces, pins, belts and amulets
made from gold, silver and precious stones. Flax grown by farmers was
woven into fine linen for clothing. The ancient Egyptians took great care of
their hair. Hair was washed and scented.

Religion
The ancient Egyptians worshipped the sun, the wind, the stars, the rain and
the thunder. The sun was the main deity which represented the eternal cycle
of birth, death and rebirth. The Pharaohs or the kings were seen as gods.
They were considered divine representatives of god on earth. They were
believed of becoming immortal after death and join the gods.
The ancient Egyptians also believed that the body and soul were very
important to human existence, in life and in death. They believed in the
rebirth and immortality of the soul. Therefore, the dead body (Mummy)
was preserved in a tomb (Pyramid). The tombs were filled with food, tools,
domestic wares, treasures and all the necessities of life to ensure the soul’s
return to the body so that the deceased would live happily ever after.

Transportation
The chief means of transporting people and goods were ships and boats.
Boats also served a ceremonial purpose. They were used to move images of
gods and goddesses from temple to temple and to transport the mummified
bodies of royals and nobles across the Nile to their tombs. The roads in

190 Social Studies & Population Education Book ~ 6

ancient Egypt were little more than paths. People rode on donkeys or travelled
by wagon. People often carried goods on their heads, but the donkeys and
wagons were used to carry heavier loads.

Art and Architecture

The early Egyptians were skilled artists,
architect and engineers. There are about
eighty pyramids known today from ancient
Egypt. The Great Pyramid of Giza is one
of the most famous structures on the
list of the seven wonders of the ancient
world. It is the only ancient structure that
still remains. This pyramid took about 30
years to complete. The pyramid consists of
2 million limestone blocks, each weighing
2.5 to 15 tons. Over 100,000 labourers Great Pyramid of Giza

worked to build this pyramid. Thus the Nile
Valley Civilization is also called the "Pyramid Civilization".

Contribution of Nile Valley Civilization

While much of the world was living in primitive
conditions, the ancient Egyptians were inventing
writing and advancing the sciences of mathematics,
medicine and astronomy. They developed ways to
measure time and distances and applied their
knowledge to monumental architecture.

Writings: The ancient Egyptian writing is known as’ Hieroglyphics
Hieroglyphics’. It was developed between 4000 to
3000 B. C. The writings included pictures of animals
and houses. The first Egyptian book was written on a
material made from papyrus plant. Perhaps it could
be the origin of the word paper at present.

Calendar: The Egyptians studied the path of the sun, the moon and the stars
and developed calendar. The calendar was based on a year of 365 days with
12 months and each month consisting of 30 days. The remaining 5 days
of the year corresponded to the birthdays of five deities: Osiris, Isis, Horus,
and Seth.

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Mathematics: The ancient Egyptians had simple knowledge of mathematics
like addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. They also knew about
fractions and geometry. The architects and engineers used their knowledge
of mathematics to design and construct the pyramids, temples, buildings
and palaces.
Medicine: The doctors of ancient Egypt believed more in witch doctors. If a
person fell sick, the illness was thought to be caused by the wrath of the gods
or by an evil spirit. By the fifth century B.C, Egyptian doctors had their own
specialization. Most of the doctors were men. Remedies and prescriptions
for various diseases were recorded on sheet of papyrus.

Points to Remember:

F The civilization that developed along the banks of river Nile is called
Nile or Egyptian Civilization.

F The majority of the ancient Egyptians were involved in farming.
F The ancient Egyptians were very concerned about cleanliness and

personal appearance.
F The ancient Egyptians worshipped the sun, the wind, the stars, the

rain and the thunder.
F The early Egyptians were skilled artists, architect and engineers.
F The Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the most famous structures on

the list of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
F Egyptian civilization has contributed in writing, astronomy,

mathematics, medicines etc to the modern world.

Key Terms and Words:

• Astronomy: the science of stars, planets and universe
• Deceased: recently dead
• Immortal: living forever
• Prescription: a doctor’s written instruction stating that a patient may be

issued with a medicine or treatment
• Wrath: extreme anger

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Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:

1. Why is Nile Valley regarded as the true gift to Egypt?
2. How was the ancient Egyptian society divided?
3. What were the staple diets of ancient people of Egypt?
4. What provided a rich source of income to the Egyptian treasure?
5. How did the shelter determine the status of ancient Egyptian people?
6. What did the ancient Egyptian people worship?
7. What did the Egyptian people believe in?
8. In which fields has the Nile Valley civilization contributed to the

modern civilization?
9. What is Hieroglyphics?
10. How did the ancient Egyptians develop calendar?

Short answer questions:

1. What is pyramid? Why did the ancient Egyptians build pyramids?
2. What is mummy? Why was it preserved?
3. Describe the contributions made by the ancient Egyptian people.

Long answer questions:

1. Describe the Nile Valley civilization under the following headings:

a. Foods b. Clothing

c. Transportation d. Art and Architecture

2. Following are the pictures of some of the wonders of the world.
Identify and write their names.

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UNIT

7

OUR ECONOMIC
ACTIVITIES

In this unit, we will learn about the following subjects:
• Our Economic Activities
• Our Agricultural Activities
• Our Service Activities
• Problems of Agriculture and Services and Their Solutions

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Lesson Our Economic Activities

1

Nepal is a developing country with an agricultural economy. In recent years,
the country has been trying to expand into manufacturing industries and
other technological sectors but with little success. Farming is the main
economic activity followed by tourism, trade, service and manufacturing.
The chief sources of foreign currency earnings are merchandise export,
services, tourism and Gorkhas and foreign employment remittances. The
annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is about US$ 4.5 Billion.

Agriculture: Agriculture remains Rice Planting
Nepal's principal economic activity,
employing 80% of the population
and providing about 40 % of GDP.
Only about 20% of the total area is
cultivable; another 33% is forested;
and the rest is mountainous. Rice
and wheat are the main food
crops. The lowland Terai region
produces an agricultural surplus,
part of which supplies the food-
deficient hill areas.

Eight out of ten Nepalese are engaged in farming. Rolling fields and neat
terraces can be seen all over the Terai flatlands and the hills of Nepal. Even
in the highly urbanized Kathmandu Valley, large tracts of land outside the
city areas are devoted to farming. Rice is the staple diet in Nepal and around
three million tons are produced annually. Other major crops are maize,
wheat, millet and barley. Besides food grains, cash crops like sugarcane,
oil seeds, tobacco, jute, tea, coffee are also cultivated. Animal husbandry,
piggery, fishery, poultry and horticulture are also done in different parts of
the country.

Industries and Manufacturing: Nepal is a developing country. It has not been
able to manufacture much industrial goods. Manufacturing is still at the
developmental stage.It represents less than 10% of the GDP. Major industries

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are woolen carpets, garments, textiles, agro-based, leather products, paper
and cement. Other products made in Nepal are steel utensils, cigarettes,
beverages, sugar, biscuits, noodles
etc. There are mostly cottage and
medium-scale factories. There are
very few large scale industries. Most
of the industries are based in Terai
region, the Kathmandu Valley and
the Pokhara Valley. But, industries
are not running well and expanding
either. Lack of capital, power, raw
material, security, infrastructures
Industries and Manufacturing

and technology are some main
causes for this situation

Tourism: Tourism is a collection of activities, services and industries including
transportation, accommodations, eating and drinking establishments, retail
shops, entertainment businesses, and other hospitality services Tourism is
the largest industry in Nepal. Many people are involved in this sector. It is one
of the important economic activities of Nepal. It is in fact the largest source
of foreign exchange and revenue. Possessing 8 of the 10 highest mountains
in the world, Nepal is a hot spot destination for mountaineers, rock climbers
and people seeking
adventures.

Nepal is the country
where Mount Everest,
the highest mountain
peak in the world, is
located. Mountaineering
and other types of
adventure tourism Tourism

and ecotourism are
important attractions for visitors. The world heritage site Lumbini, birthplace
of Gautama Buddha, is located in southern Nepal. There are other important
religious pilgrimage sites throughout the country. The Hindu and Buddhist
heritage, and its cold weather are also strong attractions.

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Trade and Business: Trade and business are commercial activities. It
involves buying, transporting,
selling, exporting and importing
of goods and services. Trade and
business is one of the economic
activities that many people are
involved. Nepal exports mainly
raw materials, woolen carpets,
ready made garments, handy
crafts, spices, tea, coffee etc.
It imports a lot of things like
petroleum products, machineries, Trade

vehicles, electric and electronic
goods, medicines, garments etc. Nepal is in trade deficit with all the trading
countries.

Points to Remember:

F Nepal is a developing country with an agricultural economy.
F Farming is the main economic activity followed by tourism, trade,

service and manufacturing.
F Agriculture employs about 80% of the population and contributes

about 40 % of GDP.
F Manufacturing and industry are still at the developmental stage and

represent less than 10% of the GDP.
F Tourism is one of the important economic activities of Nepal.
F Nepal mainly exports raw materials, agro products, handy crafts,

readymade garments and woolen carpets.

Key Terms and Words:

• Expand: extend, broaden
• Merchandise: goods for sale
• Revenue: income, profit
• Staple: basic

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Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:
1. What is the full form of GDP?
2. What is the most important economic activity of Nepal?
3. What percentage of GDP is contributed by agriculture?
4. How many highest mountains out of ten are located in Nepal?

Short answer questions:
1. List out the important economic activities of Nepal and describe any
one of them.
2. Why is tourism the largest industry in Nepal?
3. Why is Nepal lagging behind in industry and manufacturing?
4. What are the imports and exports of Nepal?

Community based Work:
a. There may be various economic activities taking place in your
community. Find and list them out. Which one of them is the most
important economic activities and why? Write a reports.
b. Describe the following picture.

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Lesson Our Agricultural
Activities
2

Introduction: Agriculture
Agriculture encompasses growing food, farming, rearing cattle, fishery,
poultry, pig farming, bee keeping, sericulture, horticulture, floriculture and
forest activities, etc. It is actually growing and raising of plants and animals.
It is one of the oldest occupations, and also known as primary activity.

Importance

Agriculture is the mainstay
of Nepali economy. For many
of the Nepalese, it is not only
an occupation or the source
of income but also a way of
life. It provides employment
to over 80% of the population
and contributes about 40%
in GDP. It is the only sector
which accepts every kind of
manpower. More than half
of the export goods are from Agricultural Activities

agriculture sector. Majority of
our industries and factories are agro-based. They get raw materials from
agriculture. Cash crops such as cotton, jute, tobacco, sugarcane, tea, herbs,
fruits, vegetables etc come from agriculture. Meat, milk and fish also are
provided by agriculture. Thus, it plays very important role in our economy.
Hence, it is paramount important to have agricultural development in Nepal.

Its importance can be outlined as follows:

(a) Source of livelihood.
(b) Source of the national income.
(c) Source of food and clothes.
(d) Source of foreign currencies.
(e) Source of industrial raw materials.

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(f) Basis of trade and commerce.
(g) Source of fodder for livestock.
(h) Employment

Present Status of Agriculture in
Nepal

• Only 17 % of land is arable.
• About 80% people involved directly or

indirectly in agriculture.
• Traditional method of farming: lacks scientific knowledge, training

and skill.
• Lack of proper irrigation and fertilizers.
• Poor storage facilities, pests destroy a significant amount of crops.
• Low quality seeds and low level of production.
• Lack of proper markets, more so in rural and remote areas.
• Subsistence farming mostly in rural and remote places.
• Agricultural provides seasonal and under employment.
The condition of agriculture is not satisfactory even though it has been
given high priority to it ever since the First Five Year Plan. Nepal is gradually
becoming a food importer country from a food exporting country. Government
has been making several efforts to develop agriculture by providing improved
seeds, fertilizers, tools, loan etc but all in vain. It is mainly due to improper
planning, distribution and utilization of resources. There lacks proper policy,
training, research and development in agricultural sector.

Points to Remember:

F Agriculture is actually growing and raising of plants and animals.
F Agriculture is the mainstay of Nepali economy.
F Agriculture employs over 80 % of people and contributes about 40 %

of GDP.
F Majority of our industries and factories are agro-based.
F Agriculture is still traditional, not yet modernized.
F There are many problems in agricultural sector.

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