The intricate system of kinship in India has long been a focal point of sociological exploration, encompassing the rich cultural traditions, familial bonds, and social structures that define the Indian society. Within the framework of the UPSC Mains examination, the optional subject of sociology has underscored the critical understanding of the multifaceted dimensions that define the system of kinship in India. By delving into the UPSC Mains question papers spanning the years 2013 to 2023, this blog aims to unravel the nuanced layers of kinship dynamics in the Indian context. Analyzing the thematic patterns, historical context, and critical issues emphasized by the UPSC, this blog seeks to provide a comprehensive guide for aspirants navigating the intricate terrain of the sociological implications of the system of kinship, enabling them to grasp the intricate relationship between familial structures and the socio-cultural fabric of contemporary India.
Exploring the profound impact of kinship systems on familial relationships, social obligations, and cultural traditions, this blog aims to offer valuable insights into the complexities of familial dynamics and social bonds in the Indian context. By dissecting the thought-provoking questions posed in the UPSC Mains examinations, it seeks to shed light on the traditional practices, cultural rituals, and challenges posed by the evolving nature of kinship systems. Through this exploration, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities inherent in the Indian system of kinship, fostering a comprehensive perspective on the historical significance and contemporary implications of familial structures in shaping the social fabric and cultural norms within the Indian societal context.
System of Kinship in India – Previous Year Questions (UPSC CSE Mains Sociology Optional)
1. Discuss the material basis of patriarchy as an ideological system. (2022)
2. Discuss different forms of Kinship system in India. (2021)
3. Discuss the conceptual issues about lineage and descent in India. Give suitable illustrations. (2020)
4. Analyze household dimensions of family in India. (2020)
5. Define patriarchy. Does it have bearings on women’s entitlement in Indian family system? Explain. (2019)
6. Define patriarchy. Does it have bearings on women’s entitlement in Indian family system? Explain. (2019)
7. Illustrate the importance of ‘Kanyadan’ and ‘Kulabadhu’ in changing institutions of marriage and family. (2018)
8. Illustrate the importance of ‘Kanyadan’ and ‘Kulabadhu’ in changing institutions of marriage and family. (2018)
9. Western patriarchy which surrenders feminine principles is the new development project in India. Do you agree with this view? Why? (2018)
10. Clarify the distinction between ‘household’ and ‘family’ and evaluate whether joint families have completely disintegrated (2017)
11. Compare the North Indian Kinship System with the South Indian Kinship System. (2017)
12. Write short notes with a sociological perspective:Patriarchyas a form of dominance. (2016)
13. Bring out the significance of the difference between family and household. (2016)
14. Give some of the important studies relating to the structural changes in the Indian family system. (2015)
15. Broadly compare the kinship system of North and South India (2015)
16. What is patriarchy ? How does it affect the child socialization pattern in India ? (2015)
17. Write short notes with a sociological perspective on the following in about 150 words : Types of kinship systems in India (2014)
18. Define Patriarchy. How does it impact the overall entitlement of a girl child in India? (2014)
19. Write short note on the following with a sociological perspective : Challenges to institution of marriage. (2012
20. Distinguish between : Affinal kin and Consanguineous kin. (2012)
21. Distinguish between : Marriage as sacrament and marriage as contract. (2012)
22. Comment on the social and cultural determinants of sexual division of labour. (2012)
23. Has nuclear family existed in traditional India ? Discuss with reference to the views of I. P. Desai. (2012)
24. Write short note with a sociological perspective on the following in not more than 150 words. Distinction between the concepts of family and household. (2011)
25. Comment critically on Linkages between Patriarchy and honour killings. (2010)
26. Comment on the influence of social and cultural factors on family planning in India. (2009)
27. Comment on the changes in the household dimensions of family under modem economic reforms. (2009)
28. What has been the impact of globalisation on the cultural aspect(s) of the family? (2009)
29. What is Patriarchy? How have the women’s movements confronted the norms of Patriarchy? (2008)
30. Discuss the impact of legislation and socioeconomic changes on marriage and family institutions. Are these institutions weakening in contemporary India? (2007)
31. Write short note: Industrialisation and family change in India, with examples. (2006)
32. Write short note: Generation Gap. (2005)
33. Discuss the influence of socio-cultural factors on age of marriage in India. (2004)
34. What factors are responsible for the instability of the Indian family? Will the family survive the present crisis in modem society? (2001)
35. Outline the social factors related to generation gap. How has the generation gap led to the problem of youth unrest? (1997)
36. “Nuclear families grow into joint families and then break into nuclear families. The change from nuclear to joint and from joint to nuclear families is fairly frequent in India.” Explain the changes in the structure and functions of joint family in this context. (1995)
37. Write short note : Legislation and socio-economic change in family. (1994)
38. Write short note : Changing pattern of Hindu joint family. (1992)
39. ‘Family jointness still continues unaffected by the differences of religion, caste, urbanization and occupation’. Elucidate (1991)
40. Write short note : Cultural factors in adoption of family planning in India. (1990)
41. Critically assess the role of social legislation in bringing about basic structural changes in marriage, family and property in India. What are the main obstacles in evolving a common Civil Code? (1990)
42. Write short note : Social Implications of Intercaste marriages. (1989)
43. Write short note : Acculturation. (1988)
44. Write short note : Intergenerational Gap. (1988)
45. Write short note : Regional Variation in Kinship System (1988)
46. Examine the roots of youth unrest. How can we channel youth power for national development ? (1987)
47. Write short note : The Indian family in continuity and change. (1986)
48. How far is generational disaffiliation responsible for youth activism in India? Why is the Indian youth failing to respond to the national challenges? (1985)
49. Examine the impact of recent social legislation on Hindu marriage and family with special reference to the status of women. (1985)
50. Trade the impact of urbanisation on the Hindu family. (1984)
FAQs on System of Kinship in India
Q. What is the system of kinship in India, and how is it structured?
Ans. The system of kinship in India refers to the intricate network of familial relationships, social obligations, and cultural norms that define the familial structure within Indian society. It is structured around various kinship terms, roles, and responsibilities that determine the social interactions and obligations among family members.
Q. What are the key features of the Indian kinship system?
Ans. Key features of the Indian kinship system include the significance of extended families, the importance of lineage and ancestry, the practice of arranged marriages, and the influence of hierarchical family roles. These features contribute to the preservation of familial traditions, the reinforcement of social bonds, and the transmission of cultural values across generations.
Q. How does the system of kinship influence social relations and cultural practices in India?
Ans. The system of kinship significantly influences social relations and cultural practices in India by shaping patterns of socialization, defining familial responsibilities, and fostering a sense of collective identity and belonging. It impacts marriage customs, inheritance patterns, and family rituals, playing a crucial role in the preservation of cultural traditions and social cohesion within the Indian societal context.
Q. How has the system of kinship in India evolved over time, particularly in contemporary society?
Ans. The system of kinship in India has undergone significant transformations over time, influenced by urbanization, globalization, and changing socio-cultural norms. Contemporary trends reflect a shift toward nuclear families, changing gender roles, and the redefinition of familial obligations, leading to new dynamics and challenges in the traditional Indian kinship system.
Q. What role does the study of the system of kinship play in understanding the cultural dynamics and familial structures within Indian society?
Ans. The study of the system of kinship in India plays a vital role in understanding the complexities of familial structures, the transmission of cultural values, and the intricacies of social relationships within the Indian societal context. It helps in analyzing the continuity and changes in familial practices, understanding the dynamics of intergenerational relationships, and fostering a comprehensive perspective on the contemporary implications of the system of kinship in shaping the socio-cultural fabric of Indian society.
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