Class 12 Political Science Chapter 3: Contemporary South Asia NCERT Answers

NCERT Solutions Class 12 Political Science Chapter 3 Contemporary South Asia (2025-26) – Exercise Solutions

1. Identify the country:
   • a. The struggle among pro-monarchy, pro-democracy groups and extremists created an atmosphere of political instability:
   • b. A landlocked country with multi-party competition:
   • c. The first country to liberalise its economy in the South Asian region:
   • d. In the conflict between the military and pro-democracy groups, the military has prevailed over democracy:
   • e. Centrally located and shares borders with most of the South Asian countries:
   • f. Earlier the island had the Sultan as the head of state. Now, it’s a republic:
   • g. Small savings and credit cooperatives in the rural areas have helped in reducing poverty:
   • h. A landlocked country with a monarchy:

   Answer:

   • a. Nepal
   • b. Nepal
   • c. Sri Lanka
   • d. Pakistan
   • e. India
   • f. Maldives
   • g. Bangladesh
   • h. Bhutan
2. Which among the following statements about South Asia is wrong?
   1. All the countries in South Asia are democratic.
   2. Bangladesh and India have signed an agreement on river-water sharing.
   3. SAFTA was signed at the 12th SAARC Summit in Islamabad.
   4. The US and China play an influential role in South Asian politics.

   Answer: (a) All the countries in South Asia are democratic.

3. What are some of the commonalities and differences between Bangladesh and Pakistan in their democratic experiences?

   Answer: Both Bangladesh and Pakistan have experienced military rule and phases of democracy. However, since 1991, Bangladesh has had regular democratic elections and multi-party competition. Pakistan has had frequent military interventions and its democracy has been more unstable, though since 2008 it has had elected governments. Both have struggled with the dominance of elites and frequent changes in governance.

4. List three challenges to democracy in Nepal.

   Answer:

   • Frequent political instability and conflict between monarchy, democrats, and Maoists.
   • Armed insurgency and Maoist violence disrupting democratic processes.
   • Suspicion regarding the role of India and external influence in domestic affairs.
5. Name the principal players in the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka. How do you assess the prospects of the resolution of this conflict?

   Answer: The principal players are the Sinhala-dominated Sri Lankan government and the Tamil minority, with militant groups like the LTTE. The 2009 defeat of the LTTE ended armed conflict, but lasting peace depends on addressing Tamil concerns, ensuring rights and equal opportunities for all communities.

6. Mention some of the recent agreements between India and Pakistan. Can we be sure that the two countries are well on their way to a friendly relationship?

   Answer: Notable agreements include the Indus Waters Treaty and confidence-building measures (like bus services and trade talks). However, due to recurring conflicts and mutual suspicions, it cannot be said with certainty that the two nations are consistently moving toward a friendly relationship; progress is often interrupted by tensions.

7. Mention two areas each of cooperation and disagreement between India and Bangladesh.

   Answer:

   Cooperation:
   • Exchange of enclaves (2015) and improved trade relations.
   • Collaboration on disaster management and environmental issues.
   Disagreement:
   • Sharing of Ganga and Brahmaputra river waters.
   • Illegal immigration and issues related to natural gas exports.
8. How are the external powers influencing bilateral relations in South Asia? Take any one example to illustrate your point.

   Answer: External powers such as the US and China influence South Asia through economic aid, political support, and strategic alliances. For example, China’s partnership with Pakistan impacts India-Pakistan relations, while the US often acts as a moderator between India and Pakistan, affecting diplomatic engagement.

9. Write a short note on the role and the limitations of SAARC as a forum for facilitating economic cooperation among the South Asian countries.

   Answer: SAARC aims to foster regional cooperation through initiatives like SAFTA, encouraging free trade among South Asian nations. However, persistent political tensions, especially between India and Pakistan, have limited its effectiveness and prevented the realization of its full economic cooperation potential.

10. India’s neighbours often think that the Indian government tries to dominate and interfere in the domestic affairs of the smaller countries of the region. Is this a correct impression?

    Answer: This perception arises due to India’s geographical size, economic power, and past involvements in neighbours’ issues. While India has legitimate concerns for regional stability and security, at times it is seen as intrusive; however, India also significantly contributes to the development and security of its neighbours.

Key Highlights of NCERT Solutions Class 12 Political Science Chapter 3 Contemporary South Asia

Mastering Contemporary South Asia is crucial for Political Science exam success. By studying chapter-wise NCERT solutions, you’ll understand major regional challenges and the evolving political landscape, making you confident for the CBSE and board exams.

Focus on topics like India and its neighbours, SAARC, and democracy in South Asia. Regular revision using these NCERT exercises will help you remember key facts and improve your answer-writing skills.

For the 2025-26 board year, practicing NCERT exercise-based questions is the best strategy to score high marks. Strengthen your concepts and boost exam performance with a disciplined approach to each section.