Class 8 Social Science Chapter 2 NCERT Solutions: Reshaping India’s Political Map

NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science Chapter 2 Reshaping India’s Political Map (2025-26)

Questions and Activities

1. Compare the political strategies of the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals. What similarities and differences existed between them?

Answer: Both the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals aimed to expand and consolidate their empires. The Sultanate relied heavily on military conquests, frequent plundering, and imposition of taxes like jizya. The Mughals, especially under Akbar, combined military campaigns with alliances, religious tolerance (sulh-i-kul), and administrative innovations such as the mansabdari system. While successions in the Sultanate were violent and unstable, the Mughal court emphasized a more centralized and enduring administration, and promoted cultural integration.

2. Why did kingdoms like the Vijayanagara Empire and the Ahom Kingdom manage to resist conquest for a longer time compared to others? What geographical, military, and social factors contributed to their success?

Answer: The Vijayanagara and Ahom kingdoms benefitted from advantageous geography — the rocky terrain of the Deccan and riverine environment of Assam made invasions difficult. Military innovations like the Ahom paik system and Vijayanagara’s efficient armies, the use of local resources, and strong leadership played key roles. Social unity, local support, and the ability to rally multiple chieftains also strengthened resistance to external attacks.

3. Imagine you are a scholar in the court of Akbar or Krishnadevaraya. Write a letter to a friend describing the politics, trade, culture, and society you are witnessing.

Answer: Dearest Friend, Life at court is dazzling. Emperor Akbar generously welcomes people of all faiths; debates on religion and philosophy are encouraged. Traders bring silk, horses, and spices; roads and cities flourish. New poems and paintings bring together traditions from across India, creating a thriving cultural atmosphere. Society is changing, but everyone is eager for learning and progress.

4. How come Akbar, a ruthless conqueror in his young days, grew tolerant and benevolent after some years? What could have led to such a change?

Answer: Akbar’s initial conquests were marked by military might, but as he encountered diverse cultures and religions, he recognized the value of unity and tolerance. His desire for a stable, prosperous empire inspired policies that promoted religious harmony, dialogue, and inclusion of regional leaders. Wise advisors, experiences from conquests, and interest in learning influenced his transformative approach.

5. What might have happened if the Vijayanagara Empire had won the Battle of Talikota? Imagine and describe how it could have changed the political and cultural history of south India.

Answer: Had Vijayanagara won at Talikota, their empire might have continued to be the dominant power in south India. Cultural centers like Hampi would have flourished longer; temple-building and arts would grow. The spread of regional languages and administrative systems could have influenced neighboring states, and resistance to northern powers might have been stronger, shaping a unique southern identity.

6. Many values promoted by early Sikhism, including equality, seva, and justice, remain relevant today. Select one of these values and discuss how it remains relevant in contemporary society.

Answer: The value of ‘seva’ (selfless service) remains vital today. In modern society, seva encourages helping others without expectation of reward, promoting community well-being and solidarity. From disaster relief to daily support for the needy, seva unites people beyond caste, creed, or religion, making society more compassionate and just.

7. Imagine you are a trader in a port city (Surat, Calicut or Hooghly). Describe the scenes you see as regards goods, people you trade with, movement of ships, etc.

Answer: The port bustles with activity — ships from distant lands unload silk, spices, and textiles. Merchants bargain in many languages. Porters carry bundles, while craftsmen showcase wares. Horses from Arabia, pepper from Kerala, and jewels from inland kingdoms exchange hands. The city is alive with cultural diversity and vibrant trade.

Reshaping India’s Political Map – Key Points for Class 8 Students

Mastering the chapter Reshaping India’s Political Map is essential for Class 8 Social Science. Understanding the rise and fall of the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire builds a strong foundation for future history topics and exam success.

Practice questions often highlight dynasties like the Vijayanagara Empire, the Ahoms, and the Sikhs. Exploring these helps students learn about cultural exchange, administrative changes, and resilient local communities during medieval times in India.

Revise timelines, key rulers, and maps for this chapter. By focusing on core concepts and reading well-explained NCERT material, you’ll enhance both understanding and memory retention for exams.