Free Solved Assignment Ignou MHI-10 URBANISATION IN INDIA Current Year 2024-2025 Pdf

Free Solved Assignment Ignou MHI-10 URBANISATION IN INDIA Current Year 2024-2025 Pdf

Last Date of Submission Ignou Solved Assignment Files 2024-2025 Handwritten Complete Files at Study Centre Before due date that is mentioned below -

1. July 2024 Session Students 31st March 2025 (Who has taken admission before May/June 2024 and wants to appeare June 2025 Examination)

2. January 2025 Session Students 30th September 2025 (Who has taken admission After June 2024 and wants to appeare October/November 2025 Examination)

You should note that the submission of assignments is compulsory before taking up Term-end
Examination. It is therefore suggested that you do them within time. In M.A. Second year you will have to do a total of 4 assignments (MHI-03, MHI-06, MHI-08, MHI-09, MHI-10, MPSE-003, MPSE-004).

MHI-10 URBANISATION IN INDIA

Course Code: MHI-10

Assignment Code: MHI-10/AST/TMA/2024-25

Total Marks: 100

Note: Attempt any five questions. The assignment is divided into two Sections 'A' and 'B'. You have to attempt at least two questions from each section in about 500 words each. All questions carry equal marks. 

Question 1. What are the markers of urban centres? Examine with reference to the historiography of urbanism.

Ans. Urban centers, or cities, are complex entities characterized by various markers that have evolved over time. These markers can be understood through the lens of historiography, which provides insights into how the characteristics of urbanism have been perceived and interpreted by scholars throughout history. Here, we'll examine the markers of urban centers with reference to the historiography of urbanism.

Markers of Urban Centers

1. Population Density:

   • Urban centers typically have high population densities compared to rural areas. This concentration of people leads to a diverse and dynamic environment, fostering social, economic, and cultural interactions.

2. Economic Activities:

   • Cities are often characterized by diverse economic activities, including trade, manufacturing, and services. The presence of markets, industries, and financial institutions is a key marker of urbanism.

3. Infrastructure:

   • Urban centers are marked by advanced infrastructure such as roads, bridges, public transportation systems, utilities (water, electricity, sewage), and communication networks.

4. Architectural and Spatial Layout:

   • The built environment of a city, including its architecture, public spaces, and street patterns, is a significant marker. Skyscrapers, residential buildings, commercial zones, and public landmarks are common features.

5. Governance and Administration:

   • Urban centers often have complex governance structures, including municipal governments, administrative agencies, and public institutions that manage urban affairs.

6. Cultural and Social Institutions:

   • Cities are hubs of cultural and social life, housing educational institutions, cultural centers, theaters, museums, and religious establishments.

7. Diversity and Social Heterogeneity:

   • Urban centers are typically more diverse than rural areas, with a mix of different ethnicities, cultures, and social classes.

Historiography of Urbanism

The study of urbanism has evolved significantly over time, with different historical periods emphasizing various aspects of urban centers:

1. Classical and Medieval Historiography:

   • Ancient and medieval historians like Herodotus, Thucydides, and Ibn Khaldun often described cities in terms of their political and military significance, economic prosperity, and architectural grandeur.

2. Renaissance and Enlightenment Historiography:

   • During the Renaissance and Enlightenment, scholars like Leonardo Bruni and Voltaire focused on the cultural and intellectual life of cities. They highlighted the role of urban centers as seats of learning, art, and innovation.

3. Industrial Revolution and Modern Historiography:

   • The Industrial Revolution brought significant changes to urban centers, with scholars like Max Weber and Friedrich Engels analyzing the socio-economic impacts of industrialization on cities. They emphasized issues like urbanization, class struggle, and the transformation of urban landscapes.

4. Contemporary Historiography:

   • Modern urban historians such as Lewis Mumford and Henri Lefebvre have explored the complexities of urbanism, including spatial dynamics, social inequalities, and the role of cities in global networks. They often use interdisciplinary approaches, incorporating insights from sociology, geography, and anthropology.

Conclusion

Markers of urban centers such as population density, economic activities, infrastructure, architectural layout, governance, cultural institutions, and diversity have been key elements in the historiography of urbanism. Over time, the focus of urban historiography has shifted from political and military aspects to cultural, economic, and social dimensions, reflecting the evolving nature of cities and the complexities of urban life. By understanding these markers and their historical interpretations, we gain a comprehensive view of the development and significance of urban centers throughout history.

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Question 2. Discuss the main features of the city of Mohenjodaro.

Ans. Mohenjo-daro, one of the largest settlements of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, provides a fascinating glimpse into early urban planning and social organization. Located in present-day Sindh, Pakistan, and dating back to around 2500 BCE, Mohenjo-daro showcases remarkable features that highlight the sophistication of the civilization.

Main Features of Mohenjo-daro

1. Urban Planning and Layout

• Grid System: The city was laid out in a well-planned grid system. Streets intersected at right angles, creating a highly organized layout.
• Divided Sectors: The city was divided into two main parts: the Citadel and the Lower Town. The Citadel, situated on a raised platform, likely served as a ceremonial or administrative center, while the Lower Town was where the majority of the population lived and worked.

2. Architectural Features

• Brick Buildings: Buildings were constructed using uniformly sized baked bricks, demonstrating a high degree of standardization in construction.
• Multi-storied Houses: Many houses were multi-storied, with flat roofs, courtyards, and sophisticated drainage systems. Some houses even had private wells.

3. Public Structures

• The Great Bath: One of the most notable structures in Mohenjo-daro is the Great Bath, a large, watertight pool likely used for ritualistic purposes. It was made of brick and sealed with bitumen to make it waterproof.
• Granary: There is evidence of a large granary, which indicates the city's role in storage and distribution of surplus grain, suggesting an organized and centralized economy.

4. Water Management and Drainage

• Advanced Drainage System: Mohenjo-daro had an advanced drainage system. Covered drains ran along the streets, with regular access points for cleaning. Each house was connected to the drainage system, with waste water directed into the main drains.
• Wells: Numerous wells were found throughout the city, indicating a sophisticated understanding of water management and ensuring a reliable water supply.

5. Public and Residential Buildings

• Standardized Houses: Houses were uniformly constructed, suggesting a degree of social equality. The houses typically had a central courtyard, surrounded by rooms, indicating an inward-facing architectural style that provided privacy.
• Public Baths and Toilets: Public baths and toilets were common, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness and hygiene in the urban life of Mohenjo-daro.

6. Economic Activities

• Craft Production: The city was a hub of craft production, including bead-making, pottery, and metallurgy. Artifacts such as tools, seals, and jewelry have been found, indicating a thriving artisanal economy.
• Trade: Seals with inscriptions and images of animals, as well as weights and measures, suggest that Mohenjo-daro was involved in extensive trade, both within the Indus Valley and with distant regions.

7. Social and Cultural Aspects

• Seals and Inscriptions: Numerous seals with inscriptions in the undeciphered Indus script have been found, indicating a form of administrative control or identification.
• Art and Sculpture: Artistic artifacts, such as the famous "Dancing Girl" bronze statue and various terracotta figurines, reflect the cultural and artistic sensibilities of the inhabitants.

Conclusion

Mohenjo-daro exemplifies early urbanism with its sophisticated urban planning, architectural innovations, advanced water management, and vibrant economic activities. The city's layout and infrastructure reveal a highly organized society with a strong emphasis on cleanliness, functionality, and social organization. Despite the lack of decipherable written records, the physical remains of Mohenjo-daro provide invaluable insights into the life and achievements of the Indus Valley Civilization.

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Question 3. Critically examine the characteristics of early historic urban centres in the Deccan.

Ans. The early historic urban centers in the Deccan region of India, spanning roughly from the 3rd century BCE to the 4th century CE, exhibit a range of characteristics that reflect their unique socio-political, economic, and cultural contexts. These urban centers, such as Paithan, Tagara, and Ter, played a crucial role in the development of the region during this period. Here, we critically examine the key characteristics of these early historic urban centers in the Deccan.

Characteristics of Early Historic Urban Centers in the Deccan

1. Urban Planning and Architecture

• Organic Growth: Unlike the planned urban centers of the Indus Valley Civilization, many Deccan cities grew organically. The layout often reflected the natural terrain and pre-existing settlements.
• Fortifications: Several urban centers were fortified, indicating a need for defense and security. These fortifications were typically made of stone or mud-brick.
• Stupas and Religious Structures: The presence of stupas, viharas, and chaityas highlights the importance of Buddhism and Jainism. Notable examples include the stupa at Amaravati and the rock-cut caves at Ajanta and Ellora.

2. Economic Activities

• Trade and Commerce: The Deccan was a crucial hub for trade routes connecting the northern plains with southern India and the western coast with the eastern regions. Ports like Sopara facilitated maritime trade with the Roman Empire and Southeast Asia.
• Craft Production: Cities like Paithan and Ter were known for their craft production, including textiles, pottery, metalwork, and bead-making. These products were traded extensively both within and outside the region.
• Marketplaces: The presence of marketplaces or bazaars, as indicated by archaeological evidence, suggests a thriving commercial economy.

3. Political and Administrative Centers

• Capital Cities: Some urban centers, such as Paithan, served as capital cities for regional powers like the Satavahanas. These cities often housed administrative and political institutions.
• Royal Patronage: The construction of public works, including water reservoirs, roads, and religious monuments, was often sponsored by ruling dynasties, reflecting their control and influence over these urban centers.

4. Cultural and Social Life

• Religious Diversity: The Deccan's urban centers were characterized by religious pluralism, with Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism coexisting. This is evidenced by the variety of religious monuments and artifacts.
• Art and Sculpture: The region is renowned for its contributions to Indian art and sculpture, particularly the early Buddhist art found in the stupas and caves. The elaborate carvings and frescoes at sites like Ajanta reflect sophisticated artistic traditions.
• Literary and Epigraphic Evidence: Inscriptions and literary texts from this period provide insights into the social structure, languages, and cultural practices. Prakrit was widely used in inscriptions, indicating its status as a lingua franca.

5. Social Stratification and Urban Organization

• Hierarchical Society: The urban centers exhibited social stratification, with distinct neighborhoods for different social and occupational groups. This is inferred from the layout of residential areas and the variety of dwelling types.
• Guilds and Mercantile Communities: Guilds (shrenis) played a significant role in the economic life of these cities. Merchants and artisans organized into guilds that regulated trade practices and maintained economic stability.

Critical Examination

Strengths:

• Economic Vitality: The economic prosperity of the Deccan's urban centers was driven by their strategic location on trade routes, fostering regional and international trade.
• Cultural Flourishing: The coexistence of multiple religions and the patronage of art and architecture led to a rich cultural and artistic heritage, exemplified by the rock-cut caves and stupas.
• Administrative Efficiency: The establishment of administrative centers facilitated the effective governance of large territories by dynasties like the Satavahanas.

Weaknesses and Challenges:

• Environmental and Geographic Limitations: The Deccan's rugged terrain and variable climate posed challenges for agriculture and urban expansion. Water management systems were crucial but sometimes insufficient to meet the needs of growing populations.
• Fragmented Political Control: The region often experienced fragmented political control, with frequent conflicts between local rulers, which could disrupt trade and stability.
• Archaeological Gaps: The understanding of these urban centers is often limited by gaps in the archaeological record and the reliance on inscriptions and literary sources, which may not provide a complete picture.

Conclusion

The early historic urban centers in the Deccan were vibrant and complex entities that played a crucial role in the region's development. Their characteristics, including organic urban growth, robust economic activities, diverse cultural and religious life, and strategic political importance, reflect the dynamic nature of the Deccan during this period. Despite the challenges posed by the environment and political fragmentation, these urban centers contributed significantly to the cultural and economic landscape of ancient India.

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Question 6. Cities of Delhi Sultanate were primarily garrison towns. Critically examine.

Ans. The Delhi Sultanate, which ruled large parts of the Indian subcontinent from the 13th to the 16th century, is often noted for its establishment of urban centers that served various administrative, military, and economic purposes. One key aspect of these cities is their characterization as garrison towns. This characterization, however, needs a nuanced examination to understand the multifaceted roles these cities played.

Characteristics of Garrison Towns

Definition and Purpose

• Garrison Towns: A garrison town primarily serves as a military base, housing soldiers and military resources. Its main functions include defense, control over surrounding territories, and projection of power.
• Strategic Locations: These towns are often located in strategically important areas, such as border regions, trade routes, or near hostile territories.

Delhi Sultanate Cities as Garrison Towns

Military Functions

• Defense and Control: Cities like Delhi, Lahore, and Multan were fortified with robust defensive structures such as walls, gates, and bastions. These fortifications indicate their role in defense against invasions and rebellions.
• Troop Deployment: These cities housed significant military garrisons that could be quickly deployed to quell internal disturbances or respond to external threats.

Examples of Garrison Towns

• Delhi: The capital itself was a major garrison town with multiple fortresses, including the Qutb complex and Tughlaqabad. It served as the primary military and administrative center.
• Ajmer: Due to its strategic location in Rajasthan, Ajmer functioned as a key garrison town for controlling the region and projecting power into Gujarat and Malwa.

Beyond Garrison Functions: Multifaceted Roles

Administrative Centers

• Governance: Cities under the Delhi Sultanate were administrative hubs where the Sultan and his officials managed the empire’s vast territories. They housed bureaucratic institutions, courts, and officials.
• Tax Collection: These cities played a central role in the collection of taxes and tributes from surrounding regions, which were crucial for maintaining the Sultanate's military and administrative apparatus.

Economic Hubs

• Trade and Commerce: Many cities were significant centers of trade and commerce. Delhi, for example, was a major trading hub connecting the Indian subcontinent with Central Asia, Persia, and the Middle East.
• Craft Production: Urban centers like Delhi, Firozabad, and Jaunpur were known for their craft production, including textiles, metalwork, and other artisanal goods. These cities facilitated both domestic trade and international commerce.

Cultural and Religious Centers

• Cultural Flourishing: The Delhi Sultanate's cities were sites of cultural patronage. Sultans and nobles supported architecture, literature, music, and the arts. The establishment of madrasas, mosques, and Sufi khanqahs also indicates their cultural and religious significance.
• Religious Institutions: Cities like Delhi and Agra housed significant religious institutions, including grand mosques like the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Jami Masjid, reflecting the Islamic character of the Sultanate.

Critical Examination

Strengths of Garrison Towns

• Security and Stability: The presence of garrison towns contributed to the security and stability of the Sultanate, enabling it to control vast territories and respond effectively to threats.
• Infrastructure Development: The need for defense and administration led to the development of sophisticated urban infrastructure, including roads, forts, and public buildings.

Limitations of the Garrison Town Model

• Overemphasis on Military Role: While military functions were significant, an overemphasis on this aspect can overshadow the equally important administrative, economic, and cultural roles of these cities.
• Complex Urban Dynamics: The cities of the Delhi Sultanate were complex urban entities with diverse populations, including traders, artisans, scholars, and officials, which cannot be fully encapsulated by the term "garrison town."

Conclusion

While the cities of the Delhi Sultanate undoubtedly had significant military functions and many served as garrison towns, they were far more than just military bases. They were vibrant centers of administration, trade, culture, and religion. The characterization of these cities solely as garrison towns oversimplifies their multifaceted roles and the complexity of urban life in the Delhi Sultanate. A critical examination reveals a more nuanced picture, recognizing the diverse functions and contributions of these urban centers to the broader socio-political and cultural landscape of the period.

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Question 8. Discuss the rise and decline of Surat.

Ans. Surat, located on the west coast of India in the state of Gujarat, has a fascinating history marked by periods of significant rise and decline. It emerged as a prominent port city and trade center, especially during the Mughal era, and experienced various socio-economic transformations over the centuries.

Rise of Surat

Geographical Advantage

• Strategic Location: Surat's proximity to the Arabian Sea made it a crucial port for maritime trade. It served as a gateway for trade between India and the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.
• River Access: The city is situated on the Tapi River, which facilitated inland trade and transport, enhancing its accessibility.

Economic Prosperity

• Trade and Commerce: By the 16th century, Surat became a major trading hub. It was renowned for its textiles, particularly cotton and silk, which were highly valued in foreign markets.
• Multinational Trade: Surat's ports attracted merchants from various countries, including the Portuguese, Dutch, British, and Armenians, making it a cosmopolitan trading center.
• Shipbuilding Industry: The city had a thriving shipbuilding industry, which further boosted its maritime trade.

Political Support

• Mughal Patronage: Under the Mughal Empire, Surat enjoyed royal patronage. Emperors like Akbar and Jahangir invested in the city's infrastructure, including roads and ports, to promote trade.
• Administrative Center: Surat was appointed as the headquarters of the Mughal navy and became an important administrative center, further enhancing its significance.

Cultural Flourishing

• Diverse Population: The influx of traders and immigrants from different parts of the world made Surat a melting pot of cultures, religions, and languages.
• Architectural Development: The city saw the construction of impressive buildings, including mosques, temples, and merchant houses, reflecting its prosperity and cultural diversity.

Decline of Surat

Economic Challenges

• Shift in Trade Routes: The discovery of new sea routes to India, especially the route around the Cape of Good Hope, diminished the importance of traditional trade routes that favored Surat.
• Rise of Bombay: The British East India Company's establishment of Bombay (now Mumbai) as a major port and trading center diverted trade away from Surat, leading to its economic decline.

Political Instability

• Maratha Invasions: In the 18th century, the Maratha invasions and the subsequent political instability weakened Surat's economic position.
• Decline of Mughal Power: The weakening and eventual collapse of the Mughal Empire led to reduced patronage and protection for Surat, making it vulnerable to external threats.

Natural Disasters

• Floods and Epidemics: Surat suffered from frequent floods due to its location on the Tapi River. Additionally, epidemics like the plague adversely affected the population and the economy.

British Colonial Policies

• Commercial Monopoly: The British East India Company's monopolistic policies restricted local traders and artisans, undermining Surat's traditional industries.
• Administrative Changes: The relocation of administrative functions to Bombay further reduced Surat's significance as an administrative center.

Resilience and Modern Revival

Despite its decline, Surat showed resilience and began to revive in the 20th century. Today, it is known for:

• Textile Industry: Surat has regained prominence as a major center for the textile industry, particularly for synthetic textiles.
• Diamond Cutting and Polishing: The city is a global hub for diamond cutting and polishing, contributing significantly to India's exports.
• Infrastructure Development: Modern infrastructure developments, including roads, ports, and industrial zones, have spurred economic growth.
• Urbanization: Surat has become one of the fastest-growing cities in India, with significant urbanization and population growth.

Conclusion

Surat's rise and decline are closely linked to its strategic geographical location, economic activities, political support, and external factors like trade route changes and colonial policies. While it faced significant challenges leading to its decline, Surat's resilience and ability to adapt have paved the way for its modern revival as a major economic center in India. The city's history is a testament to the dynamic nature of urban centers and their capacity for reinvention and growth.

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Question 9. How did the concept of urban planning change during the Colonial period?

Ans. During the Colonial period, urban planning underwent significant transformations driven by the needs and objectives of colonial powers. In India, for instance, the British implemented urban planning strategies that reflected their administrative, economic, and strategic priorities. These changes were characterized by the introduction of new urban forms, infrastructure, and governance models that departed from traditional Indian urbanism.

Key Changes in Urban Planning During the Colonial Period

1. Introduction of European Planning Concepts

• Grid Iron Pattern: The British introduced the grid iron pattern for street layouts, which was a departure from the organic and often maze-like street patterns of traditional Indian towns and cities.
• Zoning: The concept of zoning emerged, with separate areas designated for residential, commercial, and administrative purposes. This was particularly evident in the creation of civil lines and cantonments.

2. Infrastructure Development

• Transportation Networks: Colonial powers invested heavily in transportation infrastructure. Railways, roads, and ports were developed to facilitate the movement of goods and troops. Cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai became major ports.
• Public Utilities: The development of modern public utilities, including water supply, sewage systems, and electricity, marked a significant change. This infrastructure primarily served the needs of the colonial administration and the European population.

3. Administrative and Military Needs

• Cantonments: Military cantonments were established on the outskirts of cities to house European troops. These areas were well-planned with wide streets, bungalows, and recreational facilities.
• Administrative Centers: New administrative capitals were planned and developed. New Delhi, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker, exemplifies the grandiose planning style, emphasizing wide boulevards, monumental buildings, and orderly layouts.

4. Economic and Commercial Centers

• Commercial Districts: Urban planning during the colonial period often prioritized the development of commercial districts to support colonial trade and economic activities. These districts were equipped with modern infrastructure to support businesses.
• Industrial Areas: The establishment of industrial areas and docks facilitated colonial economic exploitation. The planning of industrial towns like Jamshedpur by the Tata Group also reflected colonial influence in urban planning.

5. Segregation and Social Stratification

• Racial and Class Segregation: Colonial urban planning often led to the segregation of spaces based on race and class. Europeans lived in well-planned, spacious areas with better amenities, while the local population resided in overcrowded and poorly serviced neighborhoods.
• Bazaars and Native Quarters: Indigenous populations were often confined to bazaars and native quarters, which were densely populated and lacked proper infrastructure.

6. Health and Sanitation

• Public Health Measures: Concerns over public health led to the introduction of planning measures aimed at improving sanitation. The construction of drainage systems and sanitation facilities was prioritized, especially after outbreaks of diseases like cholera and plague.
• Open Spaces: Parks and open spaces were introduced as part of urban planning to provide recreational areas and improve air quality. Examples include the Maidan in Kolkata and the Oval Maidan in Mumbai.

7. Architectural Influence

• Colonial Architecture: The architecture of public buildings, residences, and infrastructure reflected European styles. The Indo-Saracenic style, which combined Gothic and Mughal elements, became popular for public buildings.

Impact of Colonial Urban Planning

Positive Outcomes

• Modern Infrastructure: The introduction of modern infrastructure laid the foundation for future urban development. Railways, roads, and ports developed during the colonial period continue to play a crucial role in India's connectivity.
• Public Health Improvements: Advances in sanitation and public health infrastructure led to improved living conditions in certain areas, reducing the spread of diseases.

Negative Outcomes

• Social Segregation: The segregationist policies of colonial urban planning reinforced social and racial divides, which had long-lasting impacts on the urban fabric and social structure.
• Neglect of Indigenous Needs: The focus on serving colonial interests often meant that the needs of the indigenous population were neglected. Traditional urban forms and community structures were disrupted, leading to social and economic dislocation.

Conclusion

The concept of urban planning during the Colonial period in India was profoundly influenced by the objectives of the colonial administration. It introduced European planning principles, modern infrastructure, and segregated urban spaces, which had lasting impacts on the urban landscape. While there were some positive developments in terms of infrastructure and public health, the negative consequences of social segregation and the neglect of indigenous needs continue to influence contemporary urban challenges. The legacy of colonial urban planning is thus a complex interplay of modernization and socio-economic disparities.

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