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Socio-Religious Reform Movements PYQs – Modern History, SSC & Railway

95 Socio-Religious Reform Movements (Modern History) questions asked in recent SSC and Railway exams, newest first, with exam, date & shift, answers and solutions.

📚 95 questionsSSC 31 · Railway 64
SSC Stenographer 2026 – 12 September 2026 Shift 1 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q1. Which 19th-century act legalized the remarriage of Hindu widows?

  1. (a) Sati Regulation Act
  2. (b) Hindu Widow's Remarriage Act 1856
  3. (c) Age of Consent Act 1891
  4. (d) Caste Disabilities Removal Act
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Hindu Widow's Remarriage Act 1856

Answer: Option 2 — Hindu Widow's Remarriage Act 1856
The Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act (Act XV of 1856) made the marriage of a Hindu widow legal and her children legitimate.
It was won by the campaign of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, drafted under Lord Dalhousie and passed on 26 July 1856 under Lord Canning.
Revision note — Social reform legislation of the 19th century
• Bengal Sati Regulation, 1829 — Lord William Bentinck, on the urging of Raja Ram Mohan Roy, made sati a punishable offence.
• Caste Disabilities Removal Act, 1850 (the Lex Loci Act) — Lord Dalhousie; a convert to another religion no longer lost his right to inherit property.
• Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act, 1856 — Vidyasagar's petition; Vidyasagar arranged the first legal widow remarriage in Calcutta in December 1856 and later married his own son Narayan to a widow (1870).
• Native Marriage (Civil Marriage) Act, 1872 — allowed inter-caste and inter-religious marriage; pushed by Keshab Chandra Sen.
• Age of Consent Act, 1891 — Lord Lansdowne; raised the age of consent for girls from 10 to 12, after the Phulmoni Dasi case and Behramji Malabari's campaign.
• Sarda Act (Child Marriage Restraint Act), 1929 — Lord Irwin; minimum marriage age 14 for girls, 18 for boys; moved by Harbilas Sarda.
• Other widow-remarriage reformers: Vishnu Shastri Pandit (Maharashtra), Kandukuri Veeresalingam (Andhra), M. G. Ranade (Widow Remarriage Association, 1861).
• D. K. Karve himself married a widow in 1893.
Do not mix these up
• Sati Regulation (1829) vs Widows' Remarriage Act (1856) — Bentinck banned sati; Canning's government legalised remarriage. Ram Mohan Roy belongs to the first, Vidyasagar to the second.
• Age of Consent Act (1891) vs Sarda Act (1929) — 1891 raised the age of consent to 12; 1929 fixed a minimum marriage age of 14.
Also asked from this topic: the year the widow-remarriage law was passed (1856); the reformer behind it (Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar); the change made by the Age of Consent Act 1891 (10 to 12 years).
SSC Stenographer 2026 – 11 September 2026 Shift 1 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q2. Which Act made the practice of Sati illegal in British India?

  1. (a) Hindu Widow's Remarriage Act 1856
  2. (b) Bengal Sati Regulation 1829
  3. (c) Indian Penal Code 1860
  4. (d) Caste Disabilities Removal Act 1850
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Bengal Sati Regulation 1829

Answer: Option 2 — Bengal Sati Regulation 1829
The Bengal Sati Regulation, Regulation XVII of 4 December 1829, declared sati illegal and punishable as culpable homicide in the Bengal Presidency.
It was issued by Governor-General Lord William Bentinck after the long campaign of Raja Ram Mohan Roy, and was extended to Madras and Bombay in 1830.
Revision note — Social reform laws of British India
• Bengal Sati Regulation, 1829 — Lord William Bentinck; sati banned first in Bengal, then in Madras and Bombay in 1830.
• Raja Ram Mohan Roy campaigned against sati through his papers Sambad Kaumudi and Mirat-ul-Akhbar and through public debate; he founded the Atmiya Sabha (1815) and the Brahmo Samaj (1828).
• Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act, 1856 — passed under Lord Canning on the campaign of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, legalising the remarriage of Hindu widows.
• Caste Disabilities Removal Act, 1850 — protected the property rights of a person who changed religion or lost caste.
• Age of Consent Act, 1891 — raised the age of consent for girls from 10 to 12 years, after the Phulmoni Dasi case and Behramji Malabari's campaign.
• Sharda Act (Child Marriage Restraint Act), 1929 — minimum marriage age 14 for girls, 18 for boys.
• Also remember the Female Infanticide Prevention Act, 1870 and the abolition of slavery by Act V of 1843.
• Bentinck's other measures: the suppression of thuggee with William Sleeman, and the English Education Act, 1835 after Macaulay's Minute.
Do not mix these up
• Bengal Sati Regulation 1829 vs Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act 1856 — the first banned burning a widow, the second let her remarry; Bentinck and Ram Mohan Roy against Canning and Vidyasagar.
• Regulation vs Act — before 1833 the Governor-General in Council issued Regulations for a Presidency, which is why 1829 is a "Regulation" and 1856 an "Act".
Also asked from this topic: who introduced the 1829 law abolishing sati (Lord William Bentinck); the reformer behind it (Raja Ram Mohan Roy); the year widow remarriage was legalised (1856).
SSC Stenographer 2026 – 10 September 2026 Shift 1 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q3. The abolition of Sati in 1829 by Lord William Bentinck was a landmark reform in British India. Which of the following statements best explains the complex motivations behind this legislative action?

  1. (a) It was purely a humanitarian intervention by the British, motivated solely by concern for Indian women’s welfare.
  2. (b) It aimed to curb a widespread religious practice that had the unanimous support of Indian society and religious leaders
  3. (c) It combined moral reform influenced by Indian social reformers with British imperial interests in strengthening colonial authority and legitimacy.
  4. (d) It was imposed without any consultation with Indian reformers and faced no opposition from traditional elites.
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) It combined moral reform influenced by Indian social reformers with British imperial interests in strengthening colonial authority and legitimacy.

Answer: Option 3 — It combined moral reform influenced by Indian social reformers with British imperial interests in strengthening colonial authority and legitimacy.
Bentinck moved only after Raja Ram Mohan Roy had built Indian support for the ban, and the Company gained by appearing a moral, civilising power — so the motive was mixed.
The absolute words in the other options give them away: solely, unanimous, no opposition. Sati was pressed by reformers and defended by orthodox elites.
Revision note — Sati and the social reform laws of British India
• The Bengal Sati Regulation XVII of 1829, dated 4 December 1829, declared sati culpable homicide in the Bengal Presidency, extended to Madras and Bombay in 1830.
• Raja Ram Mohan Roy, founder of the Brahmo Sabha (1828), argued against sati from the shastras themselves; this was his greatest social achievement.
• The orthodox Dharma Sabha under Radhakanta Deb appealed to the Privy Council, which dismissed the appeal in 1832.
• Bentinck also suppressed thuggee with Colonel William Sleeman, curbed female infanticide, and passed the English Education Act of 1835 after Macaulay's Minute.
• The Charter Act of 1833 made the Governor-General of Bengal the Governor-General of India; Bentinck was the first to hold that title.
• Later laws: Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act, 1856 under Lord Canning, driven by Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar; Age of Consent Act, 1891 after Behramji Malabari.
• The Child Marriage Restraint (Sarda) Act, 1929 was moved by Har Bilas Sarda; the modern law is the Commission of Sati (Prevention) Act, 1987.
Do not mix these up
• Sati Regulation 1829 vs Widow Remarriage Act 1856 — Bentinck banned the burning; Canning legalised remarriage.
• Ram Mohan Roy vs Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar — Roy's cause was the abolition of sati; Vidyasagar's was widow remarriage and girls' education.
Also asked from this topic: who abolished sati in 1829 (Lord William Bentinck); Ram Mohan Roy's greatest reform (abolition of sati); the Act creating the Governor-General of India (Charter Act, 1833).
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 20 June 2026 Shift 1 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q4. Which organisation was founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy in 1828?

  1. (a) Prarthana Samaj
  2. (b) Brahmo Samaj
  3. (c) Ramakrishna Mission
  4. (d) Arya Samaj
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Brahmo Samaj

Raja Ram Mohan Roy - Social Reformer
FoundedBrahmo Samajin1828in Calcutta.
Key Facts:
• Opposed idol worship and promoted monotheism
• Fought against Sati practice
• Advocated for women's rights and education
Other Organizations:
• Prarthana Samaj - 1867 (Bombay)
• Arya Samaj - 1875 (Swami Dayanand Saraswati)
• Ramakrishna Mission - 1897 (Swami Vivekananda)
Answer: Option 2 → Brahmo Samaj
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 19 June 2026 Shift 1 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q5. Who among the following worked for widow remarriage in India?

  1. (a) Jyotiba Phule
  2. (b) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
  3. (c) Swami Vivekananda
  4. (d) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar

Topic: Social Reformers of India
Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagarwas a prominent social reformer who championed widow remarriage in 19th century India.
He played a key role in passing theHindu Widows' Remarriage Act, 1856.
He personally arranged and funded several widow remarriages to set an example.
Answer: Option 2 → Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 19 June 2026 Shift 2 · Women reformers

Q6. What was the primary objective of Pandita Ramabai’s work?

  1. (a) Women’s education and empowerment
  2. (b) Establishing a national army
  3. (c) Promoting traditional religious practices
  4. (d) Political independence for India
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Women’s education and empowerment

Pandita Ramabai (1858-1922)
A pioneering social reformer and women's rights activist.
Key Contributions:
Founded Sharada Sadan (1889) - shelter for widows and destitute women.
Established Mukti Mission (1898) - education and rehabilitation center.
Advocated for women's education, widow remarriage, and against child marriage.
Answer: Option 1 → Women's education and empowerment
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 19 June 2026 Shift 2 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q7. What was Raja Ram Mohan Roy's greatest social achievement?

  1. (a) Founding the Indian National Congress
  2. (b) Abolition of child marriage
  3. (c) Promoting English education
  4. (d) Abolition of Sati in 1829
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Abolition of Sati in 1829

Raja Ram Mohan Roy - Social Reformer
Key Achievement: Led campaign againstSatipractice
FoundedBrahmo Samaj(1828) for social reform
Convinced Lord William Bentinck to ban Sati
Regulation XVII of 1829- Sati declared illegal
This became his most significant social contribution
Answer: Option 4 → Abolition of Sati in 1829
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 18 June 2026 Shift 1 · Arya Samaj and Dayananda Saraswati

Q8. Which of the following was a unique feature of Arya Samaj meetings, as seen during Dayanand Saraswati’s time?

  1. (a) They were held only in temples
  2. (b) Only Brahmins could attend
  3. (c) They involved animal sacrifices
  4. (d) Women participated equally
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Women participated equally

Topic: Arya Samaj - Social Reforms
Founded by:Swami Dayanand Saraswati (1875)
Key Progressive Features:
• Rejected caste discrimination and idol worship
• Promoted women's education and rights
•Women participated equally in meetings- revolutionary for that era
• Opposed child marriage and supported widow remarriage
This equal participation was unique compared to orthodox Hindu practices.
Answer: Option 4 → Women participated equally
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 17 June 2026 Shift 2 · Arya Samaj and Dayananda Saraswati

Q9. Who started the Arya Samaj movement in 1875?

  1. (a) Mahatma Gandhi
  2. (b) Ramakrishna Paramhansa
  3. (c) Raja Ram Mohan Roy
  4. (d) Dayanand Saraswati
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Dayanand Saraswati

Arya Samaj Movement (1875)
Founded by:Swami Dayanand Saraswatiin Mumbai (1875)
Key Facts:
• Promoted Vedic teachings and opposed idol worship
• Slogan: 'Back to the Vedas'
• Advocated social reforms and women's education
Answer: Option 4 → Dayanand Saraswati
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 16 June 2026 Shift 2 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q10. ব্রাহ্মসমাজের কোন বৈশিষ্ট্যটি হিন্দু ধর্মীয় অনুশীলনের সংস্কারবাদী ব্যাখ্যাকে সবচেয়ে ভালোভাবে নির্দেশ করে?

  1. (a) একেশ্বরবাদী উপাসনা প্রচার করা এবং ধর্মীয় বলিদান সম্পূর্ণরূপে প্রত্যাখ্যান করা।
  2. (b) ভারত জুড়ে বৈদিক বহুঈশ্বরবাদকে পুনরুজ্জীবিত করা এবং ধর্মীয় উৎসর্গকে উৎসাহিত করা।
  3. (c) বংশগত পৌরোহিত্যকে সমুন্নত রাখা এবং সর্বত্র বর্ণ বিভাজনকে শক্তিশালী করা।
  4. (d) পুরোহিতের কর্তৃত্ব রক্ষা করা এবং মন্দিরের জাঁকজমকপূর্ণ অনুষ্ঠানগুলিকে সমর্থন করা।
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) একেশ্বরবাদী উপাসনা প্রচার করা এবং ধর্মীয় বলিদান সম্পূর্ণরূপে প্রত্যাখ্যান করা।

Topic: Brahmo Samaj — Hindu Reform Movement
Founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy (1828)
Key Reformist Features:
• Promotedmonotheism(worship of one formless God)
• Rejected idol worship and animal sacrifices
• Opposed caste system and priestly dominance
• Emphasized Upanishadic philosophy over rituals
Analysis of Options:
Option 1 ✓ — Core principle of Brahmo Samaj
Options 2,3,4 — Contradict reformist ideology
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 15 June 2026 Shift 3 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q11. What was the central aim of Raja Rammohan Roy’s Atmiya Sabha in early nineteenth-century Bengal?

  1. (a) Defending polytheistic worship and resisting all intellectual reform efforts
  2. (b) Supporting caste exclusiveness and encouraging ritualistic social customs
  3. (c) Opposing idolatry and promoting rational interpretation of Vedantic doctrine
  4. (d) Propagating occult traditions and discouraging scientific modes of thinking
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Opposing idolatry and promoting rational interpretation of Vedantic doctrine

Topic: Atmiya Sabha (1815) – Raja Rammohan Roy
Key Facts:
Founded in Calcutta to promote monotheism and rational religious thought.
Opposed idol worship, superstitions, and ritualistic practices.
Advocated rational interpretation of Vedas and Upanishads (Vedantic philosophy).
Precursor to Brahmo Samaj (1828) – focused on social and religious reform.
Answer: Option 3 → Opposing idolatry and promoting rational interpretation of Vedantic doctrine
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 14 June 2026 Shift 2 · Ramakrishna Mission and Swami Vivekananda

Q12. Swami Vivekananda represented India at which international event in 1893?

  1. (a) Chicago World’s Parliament of Religions
  2. (b) First Indian National Congress
  3. (c) Hague Peace Conference
  4. (d) London Missionary Conference
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Chicago World’s Parliament of Religions

Swami Vivekananda's Historic Speech - 1893
Event: World's Parliament of Religions held in Chicago, USA
Famous opening: 'Sisters and Brothers of America'
Impact: Introduced Hinduism and Vedanta to the Western world
Answer: Option 1 → Chicago World's Parliament of Religions
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 14 June 2026 Shift 2 · Muslim reform movements (Aligarh, Deoband)

Q13. How did Sayyid Ahmad Khan’s Aligarh Movement differ from the Arya Samaj?

  1. (a) Aligarh Movement opposed science, while Arya Samaj rejected old scriptures.
  2. (b) Aligarh Movement rejected modern learning, while Arya Samaj discouraged rational thinking.
  3. (c) Aligarh Movement supported Western-style education, while Arya Samaj promoted Vedic studies.
  4. (d) Aligarh Movement encouraged priestly control, while Arya Samaj rejected monotheism.
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Aligarh Movement supported Western-style education, while Arya Samaj promoted Vedic studies.

Aligarh Movement vs Arya Samaj
Aligarh Movement (Sayyid Ahmad Khan, 1875):
• Founded Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College (later AMU)
• Promoted Western education and modern science among Muslims
• Encouraged rational interpretation of Islam
• Aimed at Muslim social reform through modern learning
Arya Samaj (Swami Dayanand Saraswati, 1875):
• Promoted return to Vedic teachings and scriptures
• Rejected idol worship and priestly dominance
• Emphasized Vedic education and Sanskrit learning
• Advocated Hindu social reform based on ancient texts
Answer: Option 3 → Aligarh Movement supported Western-style education, while Arya Samaj promoted Vedic studies.
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 14 June 2026 Shift 3 · Prarthana Samaj and Satyashodhak Samaj

Q14. Which of the following movements, founded by Jyotirao Phule, was specifically aimed at the upliftment of lower castes in Maharashtra?

  1. (a) Brahmo Samaj
  2. (b) Satyashodhak Samaj
  3. (c) Arya Samaj
  4. (d) Ramakrishna Mission
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Satyashodhak Samaj

Topic: Social Reform Movements in India
Jyotirao Phule (1827-1890)was a social reformer from Maharashtra.
He foundedSatyashodhak Samaj (Society of Truth Seekers)in 1873.
Main objective: Upliftment of lower castes and women's education.
Fought against Brahmanical dominance and caste discrimination.
Other options: Brahmo Samaj (Raja Ram Mohan Roy), Arya Samaj (Swami Dayanand), Ramakrishna Mission (Swami Vivekananda).
Answer: Option 2 → Satyashodhak Samaj
SSC GD 2026 – 30 May 2026 Shift 3 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q15. Who started the Young Bengal Movement?

  1. (a) Henry Louis Vivian Derozio
  2. (b) Keshab Chandra Sen
  3. (c) Raja Ram Mohan Roy
  4. (d) Allan Octavian Hume
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Henry Louis Vivian Derozio

Correct Answer: Henry Louis Vivian Derozio (Option 1)
The Young Bengal Movement was started by Henry Louis Vivian Derozio (1809-1831), a young Anglo-Indian teacher at Hindu College, Calcutta. He inspired his students to question orthodox traditions, superstitions, and religious dogma through rational and free thinking. His followers were called ' Derozians ' or the 'Young Bengal' group. Though short-lived, the movement sowed early seeds of rationalism and social reform in Bengal.
Why others are wrong:
- Keshab Chandra Sen: A later Brahmo Samaj leader; not the founder of the Young Bengal Movement.
- Raja Ram Mohan Roy: Founded the Brahmo Samaj (1828); a reformer but not the originator of Young Bengal.
- Allan Octavian Hume: A British civil servant who founded the Indian National Congress (1885); unrelated to Young Bengal.
SSC GD 2026 – 27 May 2026 Shift 3 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q16. In which of the following years did British officials pass a law in favor of widow remarriage?

  1. (a) 1833
  2. (b) 1856
  3. (c) 1861
  4. (d) 1885
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 1856

Correct Answer: 1856 — Option (b)
The British officials passed the Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act in 1856. About Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act, 1856: Formally: The Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act, 1856; Passed by: British East India Company (Governor-General Lord Dalhousie); Year: 1856; Key proponent: Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar (Bengali social reformer) — he campaigned extensively for widow remarriage and submitted petitions to the British government; Provisions: Legalized remarriage of Hindu widows; Declared that Hindu widows who remarried would not lose their rights to deceased husband's property under certain conditions; Background: Before 1856, Hindu widows were forbidden from remarrying by social customs; Widows (especially child widows) were forced to live austere lives — no colorful clothes, no jewelry, head shaved; The practice of Sati (widow self-immolation) had already been banned in 1829 by Lord William Bentinck (via Bengal Sati Regulation Act, 1829); Widow remarriage was another social evil that needed reform; Social impact: While the Act legalized widow remarriage, social resistance remained strong; Actual widow remarriage remained rare for a long time due to deep-rooted social prejudices; About Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar: A great social reformer, educationist, and Bengali writer; Also championed women's education and girls' schools; Simplified Bengali script and promoted Sanskrit education; About other years: 1833: Charter Act of 1833 (reorganized East India Company administration, appointed Macaulay as Law Member); 1861: Indian Councils Act of 1861; 1885: Formation of Indian National Congress.
Option (a) 1833 — Incorrect: 1833 was the year of the Charter Act of 1833 (also called the Government of India Act, 1833) which reorganized the East India Company's governance, abolished the Company's trade monopoly, and appointed Macaulay as Law Member; 1833 was NOT when widow remarriage was legalized — that happened in 1856.
Option (c) 1861 — Incorrect: The Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act was NOT passed in 1861; it was passed in 1856; 1861 was the year of the Indian Councils Act of 1861 (which enlarged the Governor-General's Council), the Indian Penal Code (IPC) came into effect (enacted 1860, applied 1862), and the Indian High Courts Act, 1861; not widow remarriage.
Option (d) 1885 — Incorrect: The Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act was NOT passed in 1885; it was passed in 1856; 1885 is famous as the year when the Indian National Congress (INC) was founded by A.O. Hume in Bombay; the widow remarriage law came 29 years before the formation of the INC.
SSC GD 2026 – 26 May 2026 Shift 2 · Reformers of South India

Q17. Who started the Swabhimaan Andolan (Self-Respect Movement)?

  1. (a) E.V. Ramasamy Naicker (Periyar)
  2. (b) Ghasidas
  3. (c) Sri Narayana Guru
  4. (d) Jyotirao Phule
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) E.V. Ramasamy Naicker (Periyar)

Correct Answer: E.V. Ramasamy Naicker (Periyar) — Option (a)
The Self-Respect Movement ( Swabhimaan Andolan ) was founded by E.V. Ramasamy Naicker, popularly known as 'Periyar,' in 1925. About the Self-Respect Movement: Founded by: Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy (E.V.R.) — widely known as 'Periyar' (meaning 'the great one/elder' in Tamil); Year: 1925, in Tamil Nadu; Official founding: The Self-Respect Movement ( Suyamariyathai Iyakkam in Tamil) was formally launched at a conference in Chengalpet (now Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu); Key aims: To achieve complete social equality for people of lower castes (especially Dalits and backward classes); To challenge and overthrow Brahminical dominance in religion and society; Rationalism and atheism — rejection of God, religion, and superstition as tools of oppression; Women's rights and equality; Against the caste system and untouchability; Key features: Self-respect marriages (performed without priests or religious rituals); Rationalist approach — questioning religious texts; Social reform through education; Slogan: 'Let us get self-respect and live with dignity'; Publications: Kudi Arasu (newspaper) by Periyar; Organizational development: The movement led to the formation of the Dravidar Kazhagam (DK) in 1944; About Periyar: Born: September 17, 1879, in Erode, Tamil Nadu; Awarded UNESCO 'Socio-Cultural Personality' of Asia and Sahitya Akademi awards; Staunch rationalist, atheist, and social reformer; Died: December 24, 1973.
Option (b) Ghasidas — Incorrect: Ghasidas (1756-1836) was a social reformer and spiritual leader from Chhattisgarh who founded the Satnami movement among lower-caste communities — he did NOT start the Self-Respect Movement; E.V. Ramasamy Naicker (Periyar) founded the Self-Respect Movement in 1925 in Tamil Nadu.
Option (c) Sri Narayana Guru — Incorrect: Sri Narayana Guru (1856-1928) was a great social reformer and spiritual leader from Kerala who worked for the upliftment of the Ezhava community and fought against caste discrimination with his 'One caste, one religion, one God for humanity' philosophy — he did NOT start the Self-Respect Movement; Periyar founded that movement.
Option (d) Jyotirao Phule — Incorrect: Jyotirao Govindrao Phule (1827-1890) was a great social reformer from Maharashtra who founded the Satyashodhak Samaj (Truth-Seekers' Society) in 1873, and fought for women's education and Dalit rights — he did NOT start the Self-Respect Movement; Periyar started it in 1925. The candidate selected this incorrect option.
SSC GD 2026 – 25 May 2026 Shift 3 · Arya Samaj and Dayananda Saraswati

Q18. Which 19th century philosopher and reformer founded the socio-cultural organization 'Arya Samaj'?

  1. (a) Swami Vivekananda
  2. (b) Dayanand Saraswati
  3. (c) Raja Ram Mohan Roy
  4. (d) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Dayanand Saraswati

Correct Answer: Dayanand Saraswati — Option (b)
Swami Dayanand Saraswati founded the Arya Samaj in 1875. About Dayanand Saraswati and Arya Samaj: Born: February 12, 1824, in Tankara (now Gujarat) as Mool Shankar; Died: October 30, 1883; Founded: Arya Samaj on April 10, 1875, in Bombay (now Mumbai); His main guru: Swami Virajananda (scholar of Sanskrit grammar); Key beliefs and contributions: Advocated for the authority and supremacy of the Vedas (Back to the Vedas); Opposed idol worship, caste discrimination, untouchability, child marriage, and sati; Promoted women's education, widow remarriage, and equality; Introduced the concept of 'Shuddhi' (purification/reconversion); Gave the slogan: 'Back to the Vedas' (Vedas pramanam ); Wrote: 'Satyarth Prakash' (Light of Truth — his major philosophical work); About Arya Samaj: Principles: 10 principles based on Vedic ideals and rationalism; Social reform focus: Education, abolition of untouchability, women's rights; Founded DAV (Dayanand Anglo-Vedic) schools and colleges; Played a significant role in India's independence movement (Lala Lajpat Rai was a prominent Arya Samajist ); Still active today with millions of followers; Dayanand Saraswati's influence on later reformers: Inspired leaders like Lala Lajpat Rai, Bhagat Singh's family, and others.
Option (a) Swami Vivekananda — Incorrect: Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902) founded the Ramakrishna Mission in 1897 (not Arya Samaj); he was the disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and represented Hinduism at the Parliament of World Religions in Chicago (1893); Arya Samaj was founded by Dayanand Saraswati.
Option (c) Raja Ram Mohan Roy — Incorrect: Raja Ram Mohan Roy (1772-1833) founded the Brahmo Samaj (1828) — NOT the Arya Samaj; he is known as the 'Father of the Indian Renaissance' and campaigned against sati, child marriage, and for women's rights; Arya Samaj was founded by Dayanand Saraswati in 1875.
Option (d) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar — Incorrect: Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar (1820-1891) was a Bengali social reformer known for his campaign for widow remarriage and women's education — he did not found Arya Samaj; he founded several educational institutions for women; Arya Samaj was founded by Dayanand Saraswati.
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 9 May 2026 Shift 2 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q19. Who among the following succeeded Raja Ram Mohan Roy as the leader of the Brahmo Samaj?

  1. (a) Debendra Nath Tagore
  2. (b) Dwarkanath Tagore
  3. (c) Keshub Chandra Sen
  4. (d) Swami Vivekananda
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Debendra Nath Tagore

Brahmo Samaj Leadership Succession
Raja Ram Mohan Roy founded Brahmo Samaj in 1828.
After Roy's death in 1833,Debendra Nath Tagorebecame the leader in 1843.
Keshub Chandra Sen joined later and led a breakaway faction in 1866.
Dwarkanath Tagore was Debendra Nath's father, a businessman.
Swami Vivekananda was associated with Ramakrishna Mission, not Brahmo Samaj.
Answer: Option 1 → Debendra Nath Tagore
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 8 May 2026 Shift 3 · Prarthana Samaj and Satyashodhak Samaj

Q20. Which of the following institutions was founded by Mahadev Govind Ranade?

  1. (a) Widow Remarriage Association
  2. (b) Brahmo Samaj
  3. (c) Indian National Congress
  4. (d) Arya Samaj
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Widow Remarriage Association

Mahadev Govind Ranade (1842-1901)
Key Contributions:
• FoundedWidow Remarriage Association(1861) in Pune
• Co-founded Prarthana Samaj (1867)
• Founded Poona Sarvajanik Sabha (1870)
Other Options:
• Brahmo Samaj → Raja Ram Mohan Roy (1828)
• Indian National Congress → A.O. Hume (1885)
• Arya Samaj → Swami Dayanand Saraswati (1875)
Answer: Option 1 → Widow Remarriage Association
SSC GD 2026 – 5 May 2026 Shift 2 · Ramakrishna Mission and Swami Vivekananda

Q21. Who was the spiritual guru of Swami Vivekananda?

  1. (a) Ramananda
  2. (b) Adi Shankaracharya
  3. (c) Chaitanya Mahaprabhu
  4. (d) Ramakrishna Paramahamsa
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Ramakrishna Paramahamsa

Correct Answer: Ramakrishna Paramahamsa — Option (d)
Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa (1836–1886) was the spiritual guru of Swami Vivekananda (born Narendranath Datta). Vivekananda first met Ramakrishna in 1881 at the Dakshineswar Kali Temple near Kolkata. Under Ramakrishna's guidance, Vivekananda experienced profound spiritual transformations. After Ramakrishna's death, Vivekananda founded the Ramakrishna Mission in 1897 and represented Hinduism at the Parliament of World's Religions in Chicago in 1893.
Option (a) Ramananda — Incorrect: Ramananda was a 14th-15th century Vaishnava saint and the guru of Kabir; he was not the guru of Swami Vivekananda.
Option (b) Adi Shankaracharya — Incorrect: Adi Shankaracharya was an 8th-century philosopher and theologian who lived over a millennium before Swami Vivekananda.
Option (c) Chaitanya Mahaprabhu — Incorrect: Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486–1534) was a Bengali saint who propagated devotional Vaishnavism; he was not the guru of Swami Vivekananda.
SSC GD 2026 – 4 May 2026 Shift 1 · Ramakrishna Mission and Swami Vivekananda

Q22. In which year the World Parliament of Religions was held in Chicago?

  1. (a) 1893
  2. (b) 1895
  3. (c) 1897
  4. (d) 1899
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 1893

Correct Answer: 1893 — Option (a)
The Parliament of the World's Religions (also known as the World's Parliament of Religions) was held in Chicago in 1893, as part of the World's Columbian Exposition. It is famous for Swami Vivekananda's historic speech beginning with 'Sisters and Brothers of America', which brought worldwide recognition to Vedanta philosophy and Indian spirituality.
Option (b) 1895 — Incorrect: The Parliament was held in 1893, not 1895.
Option (c) 1897 — Incorrect: The year 1897 is associated with Swami Vivekananda founding the Ramakrishna Mission, not the Chicago Parliament.
Option (d) 1899 — Incorrect: The World Parliament of Religions took place in 1893, not 1899.
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 25 March 2026 Shift 2 · Anti-caste and depressed-class movements

Q23. Which of the following freedom fighters led the Mahad Satyagraha in 1927?

  1. (a) K Kelappan
  2. (b) Jyotirao Phule
  3. (c) E V Ramaswamy Naicker
  4. (d) B R Ambedkar
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) B R Ambedkar

Mahad Satyagraha (1927)
Led byDr. B R Ambedkarin Mahad, Maharashtra.
Purpose: Assert Dalit rights to access public water from Chavdar Tank.
Historic event in the Dalit rights movement against untouchability.
Answer: Option 4 → B R Ambedkar
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 25 March 2026 Shift 2 · Women reformers

Q24. Who was known as the "Mother of Indian Feminism" for her pioneering work in women’s education and rights?

  1. (a) Pandita Ramabai
  2. (b) Rukhmabai
  3. (c) Annie Besant
  4. (d) Savitribai Phule
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Savitribai Phule

Topic: Indian Social Reformers - Women's Education
Savitribai Phule (1831-1897)- Pioneer of women's education in India.
Key Contributions:
• First female teacher in India
• Opened first girls' school in Pune (1848) with husband Jyotirao Phule
• Fought against caste discrimination and child marriage
• Known as"Mother of Indian Feminism"
Answer: Option 4 → Savitribai Phule
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 25 March 2026 Shift 3 · Prarthana Samaj and Satyashodhak Samaj

Q25. In which of the following present-day places did Jyotiba Phule founded the Satyashodhak Samaj in 1873?

  1. (a) Nagpur
  2. (b) Nashik
  3. (c) Satara
  4. (d) Pune
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Pune

Satyashodhak Samaj (Truth-Seekers' Society)
Founded by:Jyotiba Phule in 1873
Location:Pune, Maharashtra
Objective: Social reform movement against caste discrimination and Brahmanical dominance.
Focus: Education and empowerment of lower castes and women.
Answer: Option 4 → Pune
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 25 March 2026 Shift 3 · Anti-caste and depressed-class movements

Q26. Which of the following best describes the Mahar Movement in Maharashtra?

  1. (a) A peasant movement against zamindari exploitation
  2. (b) A tribal uprising against British forest laws
  3. (c) A socio-political movement for Dalit rights and social equality
  4. (d) A religious reform movement aimed at purifying Hindu rituals
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) A socio-political movement for Dalit rights and social equality

Mahar Movement in Maharashtra
The Mahar community, considered 'untouchable' in the caste hierarchy, faced severe social discrimination.
Key Leader:Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, himself from the Mahar community, led this movement.
Objectives:Fight against caste-based discrimination, demand equal rights, temple entry, access to education and public resources.
Major Events:Mahad Satyagraha (1927) for drinking water rights, Kalaram Temple Entry Movement (1930).
The movement was fundamentally aboutDalit rights and social equality, not peasant issues, tribal concerns, or religious reform.
Answer: Option 3 → A socio-political movement for Dalit rights and social equality
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 19 March 2026 Shift 1 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q27. Behramji Merwanji Malabari, a Parsi social reformer, is credited for his efforts with the legislative enactment related to which of the following social evils?

  1. (a) Child marriage
  2. (b) Untouchability
  3. (c) Widow burning or sati
  4. (d) Female infanticide
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Child marriage

Behramji Merwanji Malabari (1853-1912)
A prominentParsi social reformerand journalist
His relentless campaign against child marriage led to theAge of Consent Act, 1891.
This Act raised the age of consent for girls from 10 to 12 years.
He also worked against enforced widowhood.
Answer: Option 1 → Child marriage
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 18 March 2026 Shift 1 · Anti-caste and depressed-class movements

Q28. Which of the following social reformers established the ‘ Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha’ in 1924?

  1. (a) B R Ambedkar
  2. (b) Jyotirao Phule
  3. (c) Baba Amte
  4. (d) Jawaharlal Nehru
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) B R Ambedkar

Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha (1924)
Founded by:Dr. B.R. Ambedkarin Bombay (Mumbai)
Purpose: Welfare organization for uplifting the depressed classes and promoting education among untouchables.
Key Activities: Provided educational facilities, hostels, and employment guidance for marginalized communities.
Answer: Option 1 → B R Ambedkar
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 18 March 2026 Shift 3 · Women reformers

Q29. Which of the following social reformers founded the Arya Mahila Samaj to serve the cause of women?

  1. (a) Mehribai Tata
  2. (b) Pandita Ramabai
  3. (c) Sarla Devi Chaudhurani
  4. (d) Tarabai Premchand
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Pandita Ramabai

Pandita Ramabai (1858-1922)was a renowned social reformer and women's rights activist.
She founded theArya Mahila Samajin Pune in 1882 to promote women's education and empowerment.
She also established Sharada Sadan (1889) and Mukti Mission (1898) for widows and destitute women.
Answer: Option 2 → Pandita Ramabai
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 17 March 2026 Shift 2 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q30. Which of the following statements is INCORRECT regarding the Atmiya Sabha?

  1. (a) The Atmiya Sabha laid the foundation for the Brahmo Samaj
  2. (b) The Atmiya Sabha was established in 1824
  3. (c) The Atmiya Sabha was founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy
  4. (d) The Atmiya Sabha was established at Calcutta
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) The Atmiya Sabha was established in 1824

Key Facts:
Founded byRaja Ram Mohan Roy in 1815at Calcutta
It was a philosophical discussion society
Laid the foundation forBrahmo Samaj (1828)
Analysis of Options:
Option 1: Correct - It preceded Brahmo Samaj
Option 2:INCORRECT- Established in1815, not 1824
Option 3: Correct - Founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy
Option 4: Correct - Established at Calcutta
Answer: Option 2 → The Atmiya Sabha was established in 1824
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 16 March 2026 Shift 2 · Prarthana Samaj and Satyashodhak Samaj

Q31. Who among the following is NOT directly associated with the Prarthana Samaj?

  1. (a) Debendranath Tagore
  2. (b) Atmaram Pandurang
  3. (c) Mahadev Govind Ranade
  4. (d) R.C. Bhandarkar
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Debendranath Tagore

Founded: 1867 in Bombay (Mumbai) by Atmaram Pandurang.
Inspired by: The Brahmo Samaj of Bengal.
Key leaders of Prarthana Samaj:
• Atmaram Pandurang (founder)
• Mahadev Govind Ranade (most prominent)
• R.G. Bhandarkar (Ramkrishna Gopal Bhandarkar)
Reforms: Opposed caste system, widow remarriage, women's education, idol worship.
NOT associated: Debendranath Tagore
→ He was a leader of the Brahmo Samaj (Adi Brahmo Samaj), not Prarthana Samaj.
→ He was the father of Rabindranath Tagore.
Answer: Option 1 → Debendranath Tagore
RRB Technician Grade III 2025-26 – 10 March 2026 Shift 1 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q32. Keshab Chandra Sen was a prominent leader of which of the following reform movements in India?

  1. (a) Prarthana Samaj
  2. (b) Ramakrishna Mission
  3. (c) Brahmo Samaj
  4. (d) Arya Samaj
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Brahmo Samaj

Keshab Chandra Sen was a key leader of the Brahmo Samaj.
He worked extensively for social and religious reform in India.
Among the given options, Brahmo Samaj is the correct association.
Prarthana Samaj, Ramakrishna Mission, and Arya Samaj were led by other leaders.
SSC MTS 2025 – 19 February 2026 Shift 1 · Parsi and Sikh reform movements

Q33. Khalsa College was founded by the leaders of which of the following movement?

  1. (a) Sanyasi Movement
  2. (b) Singh Sabha Movement
  3. (c) Shuddhi Movement
  4. (d) Swadeshi Movement
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Singh Sabha Movement

The correct answer is option 2.
Khalsa College, Amritsar was founded in 1892 by the leaders of the Singh Sabha Movement — a Sikh reform movement that aimed to revive Sikh religious and educational traditions in the late 19th century. The Singh Sabha Movement emphasised education, Gurmat (Sikh teachings), and the Punjabi language, leading to the establishment of Khalsa schools and colleges.
Option 1 is incorrect: The Sanyasi Movement was an 18th-century peasant uprising in Bengal; it had no connection to the founding of Khalsa College.
Option 3 is incorrect: The Shuddhi Movement was a Hindu reconversion movement led by Arya Samaj; it was not connected to Khalsa College.
Option 4 is incorrect: The Swadeshi Movement (1905) was an anti-partition and nationalist economic movement; it was not the basis for founding Khalsa College.
RRB JE CBT-1 2025-26 – 19 February 2026 · Anti-caste and depressed-class movements

Q34. How did Mahatma Gandhi’s views on untouchability shape the priorities of the Indian National Congress during the Gandhian phase?

  1. (a) Endorsing separate political electorates for communities
  2. (b) Making abolition of untouchability a central objective
  3. (c) Concentrating on political integration of princely states
  4. (d) Shifting primary focus toward agrarian economic reforms
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Making abolition of untouchability a central objective

Mahatma Gandhi strongly opposed untouchability and called it a social evil.
During the Gandhian phase, he made the abolition of untouchability a core priority of the Indian National Congress.
This is why the Congress actively worked to eradicate untouchability and uplift the Harijans (Dalits).
Other options like separate electorates or agrarian reforms, though important, were not the central focus related to Gandhi's views on untouchability.
Hence, making abolition of untouchability a central objective is the correct answer.
RRB JE CBT-1 2025-26 – 19 February 2026 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q35. Which reformer attempted to synthesize Indian and Western religious thought in the 19th century?

  1. (a) Swami Vivekananda
  2. (b) Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
  3. (c) Raja Ram Mohan Roy
  4. (d) Keshab Chandra Sen
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Raja Ram Mohan Roy

Solution
Raja Ram Mohan Roytried tosynthesize Indian and Western religious ideasduring the 19th century.
He combinedUpanishadic monotheismwithmodern Western rationalism and liberal thought.
Through theBrahmo Samaj (1828), he promoted religious reform, opposed social evils likeSati, and encouraged auniversal, rational religion.
Hence, he is known for attempting toblend Indian spiritual traditions with Western intellectual ideas.
SSC MTS 2025 – 16 February 2026 Shift 1 · Anti-caste and depressed-class movements

Q36. Who called the 'untouchables' Harijans or children of God?

  1. (a) Baba Amte
  2. (b) B.R. Ambedkar
  3. (c) Mahatma Gandhi
  4. (d) Kandukuri Veeresalingam
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi coined the term 'Harijan' (meaning 'children of Hari/God') for the untouchables as an alternative to more derogatory terms. He used this term to emphasise their dignity and worth as human beings, and worked for their social upliftment. The term appeared prominently in his newspaper 'Harijan', started in 1933.
Why other options are incorrect:
- Baba Amte: A social activist who worked for leprosy patients; not the one who coined the term Harijan.
- B.R. Ambedkar: Himself from the untouchable community, he actually criticised Gandhi's use of 'Harijan' as paternalistic. Ambedkar preferred the term 'Dalit'.
- Kandukuri Veeresalingam : A 19th-century Telugu social reformer; he is not associated with the term Harijan.
SSC MTS 2025 – 16 February 2026 Shift 2 · Arya Samaj and Dayananda Saraswati

Q37. Who among the following founded the reform association called Arya Samaj?

  1. (a) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
  2. (b) Raja Rammohun Roy
  3. (c) Swami Dayanand Saraswati
  4. (d) Radhakanta Deb
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Swami Dayanand Saraswati

Swami Dayanand Saraswati founded the Arya Samaj in Bombay (Mumbai) in 1875. It was a Hindu reform movement based on the authority of the Vedas. The Arya Samaj opposed idol worship, caste discrimination, child marriage, and promoted education, especially for women. Its motto was 'Go back to the Vedas'.
Why other options are incorrect:
- Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar: A Bengal-based social reformer known for promoting widow remarriage and women's education; he founded the Brahmo-oriented reform movements, not Arya Samaj.
- Raja Rammohun Roy: Founded the Brahmo Samaj in 1828; not the Arya Samaj.
- Radhakanta Deb: A conservative Hindu leader who opposed Rammohun Roy's reforms; not the founder of Arya Samaj.
SSC MTS 2025 – 13 February 2026 Shift 2 · Parsi and Sikh reform movements

Q38. In which of the following places was the first Singh Sabha formed?

  1. (a) Delhi
  2. (b) Karachi
  3. (c) Amritsar
  4. (d) Hyderabad
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Amritsar

The first Singh Sabha was established in Amritsar on 1 October 1873. It was founded to reform Sikhism and counter the influence of Christian missionaries and Hindu reform movements. The Singh Sabha movement eventually led to the standardisation of Sikh religious practices.
Why other options are incorrect:
- Delhi: The first Singh Sabha was not founded in Delhi.
- Karachi: Not the location of the founding of the Singh Sabha.
- Hyderabad: The Singh Sabha movement originated in Punjab, not in Hyderabad.
SSC MTS 2025 – 10 February 2026 Shift 2 · Prarthana Samaj and Satyashodhak Samaj

Q39. At which place was the Prarthana Samaj established in 1867?

  1. (a) Patna
  2. (b) Bombay
  3. (c) Calcutta
  4. (d) Lucknow
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Bombay

Correct Answer: 2 – Bombay.
The Prarthana Samaj was established in Bombay (Mumbai) in 1867 by Dr. Atmaram Pandurang, inspired by the Brahmo Samaj of Bengal. It was a reformist religious movement in Maharashtra that advocated for social reforms such as abolition of caste discrimination, widow remarriage, and women's education. Justice Mahadev Govind Ranade later became its most prominent leader.
Patna (Option 1), Calcutta (Option 3), and Lucknow (Option 4) are not associated with the founding of Prarthana Samaj.
SSC MTS 2025 – 9 February 2026 Shift 2 · Reformers of South India

Q40. Veda Samaj, established in Chennai, was inspired by which of the following?

  1. (a) Ramakrishna Mission
  2. (b) Prarthana Samaj
  3. (c) Arya Samaj
  4. (d) Brahmo Samaj
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Brahmo Samaj

Correct Answer: 4 – Brahmo Samaj.
The Veda Samaj (also known as Brahmo Samaj of South India) was established in Chennai (Madras) in 1864 by Sridharalu Naidu. It was directly inspired by the Brahmo Samaj founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy in Bengal. The Veda Samaj worked for social reform and opposed caste discrimination and idol worship in South India.
Ramakrishna Mission (Option 1) was founded by Swami Vivekananda and is a different reform movement.
Prarthana Samaj (Option 2) was a reform society in Maharashtra, not the inspiration for Veda Samaj.
Arya Samaj (Option 3) was founded by Swami Dayananda Saraswati in Punjab, unrelated to Veda Samaj's origins.
SSC MTS 2025 – 4 February 2026 Shift 3 · Anti-caste and depressed-class movements

Q41. In 1930, _____ established the Depressed Classes Association.

  1. (a) Mahatma Gandhi
  2. (b) B.R. Ambedkar
  3. (c) Jyoti Rao Phule
  4. (d) M. G. Ranade
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) B.R. Ambedkar

Correct Answer: B.R. Ambedkar
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar established the Depressed Classes Association in 1930 to fight for the civil rights and social equality of untouchables (scheduled castes). He also founded many other organisations for the uplift of oppressed communities.
Why other options are wrong:
Mahatma Gandhi - Worked for Harijans but did not found this specific association.
Jyoti Rao Phule - Founded the Satyashodhak Samaj (1873).
M. G. Ranade - Co-founded the Prarthana Samaj (1867).
Delhi Police Head Constable (Ministerial) 2025-26 – 8 January 2026 Shift 2 · Arya Samaj and Dayananda Saraswati

Q42. Who among the following was a prominent educational reformer and founder of Dayanand Anglo Vedic College?

  1. (a) Lala Hansraj
  2. (b) Govind Ballabh Pant
  3. (c) Arun Chandra Guha
  4. (d) Asaf Ali
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Lala Hansraj

Correct Answer: Option 1 – Lala Hansraj
Lala Hansraj (1864–1938) was a prominent Arya Samaj leader and educational reformer. He was the founder and key driving force behind the Dayanand Anglo Vedic (DAV) educational movement. He established the first DAV School/College in Lahore in 1886, following the principles of Swami Dayananda Saraswati's Arya Samaj — combining modern English education with Vedic values. He dedicated his life to education and served without salary for many years, earning the title 'Mahatma' from Lala Lajpat Rai.
Why other options are wrong:
Option 2 (Govind Ballabh Pant): He was a politician and India's first Home Minister from Uttar Pradesh, not associated with DAV College.
Option 3 (Arun Chandra Guha): He was a freedom fighter and politician from Bengal, not an educational reformer connected to DAV.
Option 4 (Asaf Ali): He was a nationalist politician, lawyer, and diplomat — not the founder of DAV College.
Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 6 January 2026 Shift 3 · Reformers of South India

Q43. The social reformer who pioneered the "Self-Respect Movement" in Tamil society, promoting equality, rationalism, and anti-caste ideology, was:

  1. (a) Narayana Guru
  2. (b) E.V. Ramasamy Periyar
  3. (c) B.R. Ambedkar
  4. (d) K. Kelappan
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) E.V. Ramasamy Periyar

The correct answer is (b) E.V. Ramasamy Periyar.
E.V. Ramasamy Periyar (Periyar, 1879-1973) founded the Self-Respect Movement (Tamil: Suyamariyathai Iyakkam) in 1925 in Tamil Nadu. The movement aimed to eliminate caste discrimination, promote rationalism, advocate women's rights, and challenge Brahminical dominance in society.
(a) Narayana Guru: A great philosopher-saint from Kerala who worked against caste discrimination and promoted social equality through the motto 'One Caste, One Religion, One God'; his movement was in Kerala, not in Tamil society.
(c) B.R. Ambedkar: Led the Dalit rights movement across India and championed social justice; associated with the annihilation of caste movement but not specifically the Self-Respect Movement in Tamil society.
(d) K. Kelappan: A prominent freedom fighter from Kerala, associated with Vaikom Satyagraha; not the founder of the Self-Respect Movement.
Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 3 January 2026 Shift 3 · Ramakrishna Mission and Swami Vivekananda

Q44. Who established the Ramakrishna Mission to promote spiritual upliftment, education, and service inspired by the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, emphasizing humanitarian and educational work across India?

  1. (a) Ramakrishna Paramahamsa
  2. (b) Vivekananda
  3. (c) Dayananda Saraswati
  4. (d) Raja Rammohan Roy
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Vivekananda

Swami Vivekananda founded the Ramakrishna Mission in 1897 to promote the teachings of his Guru, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, emphasizing spiritual upliftment, education, and humanitarian service.
(a) Incorrect: Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was Vivekananda's spiritual guru, not the founder of the Mission named after him.
(b) Incorrect: Dayananda Saraswati founded the Arya Samaj in 1875, a different reform movement.
(c) Incorrect: Raja Rammohan Roy founded the Brahmo Samaj in 1828, a separate reformist organization.
Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 30 December 2025 Shift 2 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q45. The 'Child Marriage Restraint Act' of 1929, which fixed the marriage age for girls at 14 and boys at 18, is popularly known as the?

  1. (a) Sati Prevention Act
  2. (b) Widow Remarriage Act
  3. (c) Sharda Act
  4. (d) Age of Consent Act
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Sharda Act

The Child Marriage Restraint Act, 1929 is popularly known as the Sharda Act, named after Harbilas Sarda, the Hindu Mahasabha member who introduced the bill. It set the minimum marriage age at 14 for girls and 18 for boys.
(a) Incorrect: The Sati Prevention Act was enacted in 1987 to prevent the practice of widow immolation, not child marriage.
(b) Incorrect: The Widow Remarriage Act (Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act, 1856) allowed Hindu widows to remarry, unrelated to child marriage.
(d) Incorrect: The Age of Consent Act, 1891 raised the age of consent for sexual intercourse, not a child marriage restraint act.
Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 29 December 2025 Shift 1 · Anti-caste and depressed-class movements

Q46. Who is associated with All India Scheduled Castes Federation, Mooknayak , Bahujan Hitakarini Sabha, and Bahishkrit Bharat?

  1. (a) Mahatma Gandhi
  2. (b) Jyotiba Phule
  3. (c) B.R. Ambedkar
  4. (d) Dayanand Saraswati
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) B.R. Ambedkar

B.R. Ambedkar founded the All India Scheduled Castes Federation (1942), published newspapers Mooknayak and Bahishkrit Bharat, and established Bahujan Hitakarini Sabha to uplift Dalits and backward classes.
(a) Incorrect: Mahatma Gandhi led Congress; he was not associated with these organisations .
(b) Incorrect: Jyotiba Phule founded Satyashodhak Samaj.
(d) Incorrect: Dayanand Saraswati founded Arya Samaj.
SSC CPO Paper-1 2025 – 11 December 2025 Shift 2 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q47. How did the Bombay and Madras governments respond to the proposal of the 1839 Draft Act on slavery?

  1. (a) Both supported the Act without changes
  2. (b) Bombay supported it, Madras rejected it
  3. (c) Bombay saw no need for a law; Madras questioned its expediency
  4. (d) Both governments demanded full enforcement of the Act
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Bombay saw no need for a law; Madras questioned its expediency

Correct Answer: Bombay saw no need for a law; Madras questioned its expediency (Option 3)
When the 1839 Draft Act to abolish slavery was proposed in British India, the two Presidencies responded differently. The Bombay government felt there was no real need for such a law as slavery was not a major issue in their jurisdiction. The Madras government, however, questioned whether passing such a law was expedient (practical/advisable) given the scale and nature of slavery in their territory. This hesitation delayed the formal passage of the Indian Slavery Act until 1843.
Neither presidency supported the Act without changes — both raised objections.
Bombay did not 'support' the Act; it questioned its necessity.
Neither government demanded full enforcement — they both sought to avoid or delay it.
SSC CPO Paper-1 2025 – 11 December 2025 Shift 2 · Anti-caste and depressed-class movements

Q48. On 8th March 2025, the nation observed the Jayanti of which social reformer and founder of the Matua Sect, known for leading the Chandal movement against untouchability?

  1. (a) Shree Harichand Thakur
  2. (b) Shree Narayan Guru
  3. (c) Shree Jyotirao Phule
  4. (d) Shree Guru Ravidas
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Shree Harichand Thakur

Correct Answer: Shree Harichand Thakur (Option 1)
Shree Harichand Thakur (1812–1878) was a Bengali social reformer and the founder of the Matua sect. He led the Chandal movement in Bengal, fighting against caste-based discrimination and untouchability. The Matua sect, which has a large following among the Namasudra community of Bengal and Bangladesh, emphasizes devotion to God and equality among all humans. His Jayanti is observed on 8th March.
Shree Narayan Guru was a social reformer from Kerala who worked against caste discrimination among the Ezhava community.
Shree Jyotirao Phule was a social reformer from Maharashtra who worked for lower caste and women's rights.
Shree Guru Ravidas was a 15th-century saint-poet who spoke against caste discrimination — not associated with the Matua sect or the Chandal movement.
SSC Stenographer 2025 – 8 December 2025 Shift 3 · Arya Samaj and Dayananda Saraswati

Q49. Who set up a Dayanand Anglo Vedic school in Lahore?

  1. (a) Lala Lajpat Rai
  2. (b) Balgangadhar Tilak
  3. (c) Bipin Chandrapal
  4. (d) Dayanand Saraswati
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Lala Lajpat Rai

The correct answer is Lala Lajpat Rai . The Dayanand Anglo Vedic (DAV) School was founded in 1886 in Lahore by Lala Lajpat Rai and his associates as part of the Arya Samaj movement. Its aim was to provide modern scientific education blended with Vedic values, reflecting Swami Dayanand Saraswati’s ideals. Later, the DAV institutions expanded into colleges and universities, becoming one of the largest educational networks in India. This institution played a significant role in creating a new generation of Indians who were modern in outlook but rooted in Indian traditions.
SSC Stenographer 2025 – 7 December 2025 Shift 2 · Anti-caste and depressed-class movements

Q50. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Mahatma Jyotiba Phule on his birth anniversary. Phule is best known for his contributions to which of the following?

  1. (a) Agriculture and commerce
  2. (b) Industry and infrastructure
  3. (c) Social Reform and Anti-Caste Movement
  4. (d) Military and diplomacy
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Social Reform and Anti-Caste Movement

The correct answer is option 3. Mahatma Jyotiba Phule was a great social reformer of 19th century India who is best remembered for his pioneering work in the field of social reform, women’s education, and the anti-caste movement . Along with his wife Savitribai Phule, he started the first girls’ school in Pune in 1848, challenging the orthodox mindset of society. He strongly opposed the caste system and untouchability, and founded the Satyashodhak Samaj in 1873 to promote social equality and justice. His efforts laid the foundation for later social reform movements in India and inspired leaders like Dr. B. R. Ambedkar.
SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 29 November 2025 Shift 2 · Women reformers

Q51. Who was the first female teacher of India who founded the first girls' school?

  1. (a) Annie Besant
  2. (b) Kasturba Gandhi
  3. (c) Sarojini Naidu
  4. (d) Savitribai Jyotiba Phule
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Savitribai Jyotiba Phule

Savitribai Jyotiba Phule was the first female teacher of India. Along with her husband Jyotiba Phule, she founded the first girls' school in Pune (Bhide Wada) in 1848. She was a social reformer and pioneer of women's education in India.
Annie Besant was an Irish-British social activist associated with the Theosophical Society.
Kasturba Gandhi was the wife of Mahatma Gandhi and a freedom fighter.
Sarojini Naidu was a poet and freedom fighter, known as the Nightingale of India.
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 24 September 2025 Shift 2 · Anti-caste and depressed-class movements

Q52. Thakkar Bapa was a dedicated social worker and freedom fighter primarily known for his lifelong efforts towards the upliftment and welfare of which section of Indian society?

  1. (a) Women
  2. (b) Children
  3. (c) Tribal (Adivasi) communities
  4. (d) Industrial workers
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Tribal (Adivasi) communities

Amritlal Vithaldas Thakkar, popularly known as Thakkar Bapa, was a Gujarati social worker who devoted his life to the welfare and upliftment of the tribal (Adivasi) and Harijan communities of India.
He founded the Bhil Seva Mandal and worked closely with Gandhiji.
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 21 September 2025 Shift 1 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q53. Who introduced the law that abolished the practice of Sati in British India in 1829?

  1. (a) Lord Dalhousie
  2. (b) Lord Curzon
  3. (c) Lord William Bentinck
  4. (d) Lord Canning
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Lord William Bentinck

Lord William Bentinck (Governor-General) introduced the Bengal Sati Regulation, 1829, abolishing Sati.
Dalhousie — Doctrine of Lapse.
Curzon — Partition of Bengal (1905).
Canning — Governor-General during 1857 revolt.
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 20 September 2025 Shift 1 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q54. The Age of Consent Act 1891 raised the minimum marital age for girls from:

  1. (a) 10 to 11 years
  2. (b) 10 to 12 years
  3. (c) 10 to 13 years
  4. (d) 10 to 14 years
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 10 to 12 years

- The Age of Consent Act, 1891 (Sharda Act precursor) raised the age of consent for girls from 10 to 12 years.
- This was prompted by the Phulmoni Dasi case.
SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 14 September 2025 Shift 3 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q55. How did Raja Rammohan Roy contribute to the movement against the practice of Sati in early 19th-century Bengal?

  1. (a) He organized armed protests in Bengal villages
  2. (b) He issued government ordinances against orthodox leaders
  3. (c) He campaigned using newspapers and engaged in debates
  4. (d) He formed alliances with British Christian missionaries
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) He campaigned using newspapers and engaged in debates

Raja Rammohan Roy was a social reformer who campaigned strongly against Sati.
He used newspapers like Sambad Kaumudi and Mirat-ul-Akhbar to spread awareness.
He engaged in public debates and persuaded the British government to ban Sati in 1829 through the Bengal Sati Regulation Act.
He did NOT organize armed protests or issue ordinances.
Answer: He campaigned using newspapers and engaged in debates
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 4 September 2025 Shift 1 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q56. Which reformer is known for his efforts to promote widow remarriage and women’s education in Bengal?

  1. (a) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
  2. (b) Swami Vivekananda
  3. (c) Keshab Chandra Sen
  4. (d) Debendranath Tagore
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 4 September 2025 Shift 2 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q57. Which of the following could be regarded as the only positive outcome of the British reforms in India?

  1. (a) Deindustrialisation
  2. (b) Social reform laws
  3. (c) Ruralisation
  4. (d) One-way free trade
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Social reform laws

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 2 September 2025 Shift 1 · Reformers of South India

Q58. Which reform movement in Kerala focused on the upliftment of the backward castes through education and social equality?

  1. (a) SNDP Sabha
  2. (b) Singh Sabha
  3. (c) Arya Samaj
  4. (d) Kayastha Sabha
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) SNDP Sabha

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 2 September 2025 Shift 3 · Muslim reform movements (Aligarh, Deoband)

Q59. Which of the following names is associated with the Faraizi Movement?

  1. (a) Nawab Salimullah
  2. (b) Muhammad Barkathulla
  3. (c) Haji Shariatullah
  4. (d) Hakim Ajmal Khan
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Haji Shariatullah

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 2 September 2025 Shift 3 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q60. Which law allowed inter-caste and inter-religious marriages during the British period in India?

  1. (a) Widow Remarriage Act
  2. (b) Act of Settlement
  3. (c) Sarda Act
  4. (d) Act of 1872
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Act of 1872

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 1 September 2025 Shift 2 · Muslim reform movements (Aligarh, Deoband)

Q61. The Faraizi Movement was a religious reform movement of the 19ᵗʰ century in _______.

  1. (a) Bengal
  2. (b) Rajasthan
  3. (c) Maharashtra
  4. (d) Gujarat
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Bengal

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 29 August 2025 Shift 1 · Prarthana Samaj and Satyashodhak Samaj

Q62. In which of the following cities was the Paramhansa Mandali founded to work for the abolition of caste?

  1. (a) Patna
  2. (b) Surat
  3. (c) Bombay
  4. (d) Kanpur
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Bombay

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 29 August 2025 Shift 3 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q63. Raja Ram Mohan Roy was an active social reformer who spoke greatly for the problems faced by women. He was an inseparable agent who brought down the social evil of ‘sati’. The reform association founded by him was:

  1. (a) Brahmo Samaj
  2. (b) Ramakrishna Mission
  3. (c) Arya Samaj
  4. (d) Prarthana Samaj
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Brahmo Samaj

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 28 August 2025 Shift 1 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q64. In which of the following years was Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar born, who is remembered for his efforts in widow remarriage and the abolition of polygamy in Hindu society?

  1. (a) 1835
  2. (b) 1849
  3. (c) 1812
  4. (d) 1820
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 1820

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 21 August 2025 Shift 1 · Prarthana Samaj and Satyashodhak Samaj

Q65. Mahavdev Govind Ranade devoted his entire life to the _________.

  1. (a) Prarthana Samaj
  2. (b) Deva Samaj
  3. (c) Theosophical Society
  4. (d) Servants of India Society
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Prarthana Samaj

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 21 August 2025 Shift 2 · Young Bengal Movement and Derozians

Q66. Henry Vivian Derozio, a teacher at the Hindu College of Calcutta, promoted radical ideas and encouraged his pupils to question all authority. This movement became known as the:

  1. (a) Servants of India Society
  2. (b) Young Bengal Movement
  3. (c) Justice Movement
  4. (d) Social Service League
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Young Bengal Movement

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 20 August 2025 Shift 2 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q67. Which philosophical work did Rammohan Roy write in 1803 analysing world religions through reason and social relevance?

  1. (a) Satyarth Prakash
  2. (b) Hind Swaraj
  3. (c) Tuhfat-ul Muwahhidin
  4. (d) Precepts of Jesus
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Tuhfat-ul Muwahhidin

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 18 August 2025 Shift 3 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q68. Which harmful social practice was banned in 1829 by Lord Bentinck during the British rule in India?

  1. (a) Polygamy
  2. (b) Sati
  3. (c) Dowry
  4. (d) Child marriage
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Sati

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 14 August 2025 Shift 1 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q69. Which of the following is an example of social legislation introduced by the British during the colonial period in India?

  1. (a) The Widow Remarriage Act
  2. (b) The Rowlatt Act
  3. (c) The Indian Councils Act
  4. (d) The Vernacular Press Act
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) The Widow Remarriage Act

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 12 August 2025 Shift 1 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q70. Which of the following was the objective of the law enacted in 1856 in India?

  1. (a) Abolition of caste system
  2. (b) Legalising widow remarriage
  3. (c) Banning of child labour
  4. (d) Temple entry for Shudras
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Legalising widow remarriage

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 12 August 2025 Shift 3 · Muslim reform movements (Aligarh, Deoband)

Q71. The Wahabi Movement was started by Syed Ahmad, of _____.

  1. (a) Rae Bareli
  2. (b) Jhansi
  3. (c) Amritsar
  4. (d) Hyderabad
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Rae Bareli

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 11 August 2025 Shift 2 · Prarthana Samaj and Satyashodhak Samaj

Q72. In which of the following Indian cities was the Prarthana Samaj, which believed in the spiritual equality of all castes, founded in the 19ᵗʰ century?

  1. (a) Kanpur
  2. (b) Jodhpur
  3. (c) Bombay
  4. (d) Mysore
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Bombay

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 8 August 2025 Shift 2 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q73. During the colonial period in India, which social reformer worked for widow remarriage and against child marriage in Bengal?

  1. (a) Swami Vivekananda
  2. (b) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
  3. (c) Syed Ahmed Khan
  4. (d) Jyotiba Phule
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 8 August 2025 Shift 2 · Muslim reform movements (Aligarh, Deoband)

Q74. The Faraizi Movement, led by Haji Shariatullah, focused on religious purification and resisting the British in which region?

  1. (a) Gujarat
  2. (b) Punjab
  3. (c) Bengal
  4. (d) Delhi
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Bengal

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 8 August 2025 Shift 3 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q75. In which of the following years was the Bengal Sati Regulation enacted?

  1. (a) 1818
  2. (b) 1858
  3. (c) 1837
  4. (d) 1829
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 1829

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 7 August 2025 Shift 3 · Reformers of South India

Q76. Narayana Guru, a social reformer who led a massive movement against the discrimination of the lower castes, was from the state of:

  1. (a) Madhya Pradesh
  2. (b) Andhra Pradesh
  3. (c) Kerala
  4. (d) West Bengal
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Kerala

SSC Selection Post 2025 (Phase XIII) – 1 August 2025 Shift 2 · Anti-caste and depressed-class movements

Q77. Who founded Harijan Sangh and contended that the Shastras did not approve untouchability; and if they did, they should be disregarded?

  1. (a) Rabindranath Tagore
  2. (b) Gopal Krishna Gokhale
  3. (c) Jyotiba Phule
  4. (d) Mahatma Gandhi
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Mahatma Gandhi

Correct Answer: Option 4 – Mahatma Gandhi
Mahatma Gandhi founded the Harijan Sangh in 1932 to work for the upliftment and social equality of untouchables (whom he termed 'Harijans' meaning 'Children of God'). He firmly contended that untouchability had no genuine sanction in the Hindu Shastras, and even if they supported it, such scriptures should be disregarded.
Option 1 (Rabindranath Tagore): A poet and reformer, but not the founder of Harijan Sangh.
Option 2 (Gopal Krishna Gokhale): Gandhi's political mentor; known for liberal social reforms but not Harijan Sangh.
Option 3 (Jyotiba Phule): A pioneer of anti-caste social reform who founded Satyashodhak Samaj (1873); not Harijan Sangh.
RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 24 June 2025 Shift 2 · Ramakrishna Mission and Swami Vivekananda

Q78. Who started the Ramakrishna Mission?

  1. (a) Keshub Chandra Sen
  2. (b) Gopal Ganesh Agarkar
  3. (c) Ramakrishna Paramhansa
  4. (d) Swami Vivekananda
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Swami Vivekananda

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 23 June 2025 Shift 3 · Muslim reform movements (Aligarh, Deoband)

Q79. What was the main focus of the Aligarh Movement?

  1. (a) Abolition of Sati
  2. (b) Hindu Revivalism
  3. (c) Modern Education among Muslims
  4. (d) Women's Rights
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Modern Education among Muslims

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 21 June 2025 Shift 3 · Prarthana Samaj and Satyashodhak Samaj

Q80. Jyotiba Phule was remembered on his birth anniversary on 11ᵗʰ April 2025 for which of the following major contributions to Indian society?

  1. (a) Leading the 1857 revolt
  2. (b) Writing the Indian Constitution
  3. (c) Launching India’s first cooperative bank
  4. (d) Founding the first girls’ school in India
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Founding the first girls’ school in India

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 21 June 2025 Shift 1 · Prarthana Samaj and Satyashodhak Samaj

Q81. Which of the following pairs of reform organisations and their founders is correctly matched?

  1. (a) Brahmo Samaj – Dayanand Saraswati
  2. (b) Bahujan Samaj – BR Ambedkar
  3. (c) Arya Samaj – Raja Ram Mohan Roy
  4. (d) Satya Shodhak Samaj – Jyotiba Phule
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Satya Shodhak Samaj – Jyotiba Phule

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 21 June 2025 Shift 2 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q82. Which law permitted widow remarriage in India?

  1. (a) Hindu Widow Remarriage Act, 1856
  2. (b) Equality Law Act, 1870
  3. (c) Female Protection Act, 1862
  4. (d) Women's Rights Act, 1859
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Hindu Widow Remarriage Act, 1856

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 19 June 2025 Shift 1 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q83. Which of the following reformers was NOT associated with British India?

  1. (a) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
  2. (b) Aryabhatta
  3. (c) Raja Ram Mohan Roy
  4. (d) Swami Vivekananda
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Aryabhatta

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 19 June 2025 Shift 3 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q84. Under whose administration was the practice of Sati officially abolished in British India?

  1. (a) Lord Dalhousie
  2. (b) Lord Cornwallis
  3. (c) Lord Canning
  4. (d) Lord William Bentinck
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Lord William Bentinck

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 17 June 2025 Shift 3 · Prarthana Samaj and Satyashodhak Samaj

Q85. Who among the following was a radical rationalist and iconoclast in Maharashtra?

  1. (a) Vishnushastri Chiplunkar
  2. (b) Ganesh Vasudev Joshi
  3. (c) Bhaskar Pandurang
  4. (d) Gopal Ganesh Agarkar
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Gopal Ganesh Agarkar

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 16 June 2025 Shift 2 · Prarthana Samaj and Satyashodhak Samaj

Q86. Who founded the Prarthana Samaj?

  1. (a) Atmaram Pandurang
  2. (b) Narayan Mahadev Permanand
  3. (c) Gopal Hari Deshmukh
  4. (d) Vishnushastri Pandit
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Atmaram Pandurang

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 16 June 2025 Shift 3 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q87. ‘Tuhfat-ul-Muwahhidin’ was written by:

  1. (a) Rammohan Roy
  2. (b) Keshub Chandra Sen
  3. (c) Sayyid Ahmed Khan
  4. (d) Akshay Kumar Dutt
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Rammohan Roy

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 14 June 2025 Shift 1 · Prarthana Samaj and Satyashodhak Samaj

Q88. The Paramhansa Sabha was founded in:

  1. (a) 1849
  2. (b) 1865
  3. (c) 1875
  4. (d) 1857
Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 1849

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 11 June 2025 Shift 1 · Social reform laws (sati, widow remarriage, child marriage)

Q89. One important outcome of British social reforms was ______.

  1. (a) spread of religious fundamentalism
  2. (b) emergence of women in public life
  3. (c) increase in caste rigidity
  4. (d) decline in education
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) emergence of women in public life

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 10 June 2025 Shift 3 · Parsi and Sikh reform movements

Q90. The Singh Sabha movement is associated with which community?

  1. (a) Parsi
  2. (b) Hindu
  3. (c) Sikh
  4. (d) Muslim
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Sikh

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 9 June 2025 Shift 2 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q91. Who is referred to as the 'Father of the Indian Renaissance' due to their contribution in social reform, literary works and unwavering patriotism?

  1. (a) Atmaram Pandurang
  2. (b) Dayanand Saraswati
  3. (c) Swami Vivekanand
  4. (d) Raja Ram Mohan Roy
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Raja Ram Mohan Roy

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 5 June 2025 Shift 1 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q92. Who among the following was known for promoting inter-caste and inter-religious marriages through legislation?

  1. (a) Annie Besant
  2. (b) PanditaRamabai
  3. (c) Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
  4. (d) Raja Ram Mohan Roy
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Raja Ram Mohan Roy

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2024-25 – 5 June 2025 Shift 1 · Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Brahmo Samaj

Q93. Who among the following founded the Vedanta College in Calcutta to promote both Indian and Western learning?

  1. (a) DebendranathTagore
  2. (b) RammohanRoy
  3. (c) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
  4. (d) Swami Vivekananda
Answer & solution

Answer: (b) RammohanRoy

RRB JE CBT-1 2024-25 – 18 December 2024 Shift 1 · Women reformers

Q94. Who among the following women started the Women's Indian Association in 1917?

  1. (a) Usha Mehta
  2. (b) Madam Bhikaji Cama
  3. (c) Annie Besant
  4. (d) Sarojini Naidu
Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Annie Besant

Answer: Option 3 — Annie Besant
The Women's Indian Association (WIA) was founded in 1917 at Adyar, Madras by Annie Besant, with Margaret Cousins and Dorothy Jinarajadasa.
It worked for women's education and women's right to vote.
Revision note — Annie Besant
• Irish-born Theosophist; President of the Theosophical Society (Adyar) from 1907.
• Helped found the Central Hindu College, Banaras (1898), later part of BHU.
• Started the Home Rule League at Madras in September 1916; Tilak's league began at Belgaum in April 1916.
• First woman President of the INC — Calcutta session, 1917.
• Ran the newspapers New India and Commonweal.
• Margaret Cousins later helped start the All India Women's Conference (1927).
Do not mix these up
• Annie Besant vs Sarojini Naidu — Besant was the first woman INC President (1917); Naidu was the first Indian woman INC President (1925, Kanpur).
• Bhikaji Cama hoisted an Indian flag at Stuttgart (1907); Usha Mehta ran the secret Congress Radio in 1942.
Also asked from this topic: the first woman President of the INC (Annie Besant); the founder of the Home Rule League at Madras (Annie Besant); the woman who hoisted India's flag at Stuttgart in 1907 (Bhikaji Cama).
RRB JE CBT-1 2024-25 – 17 December 2024 Shift 1 · Anti-caste and depressed-class movements

Q95. What was the name of the movement started in 1927 in Maharashtra, led by Dr. BR Ambedkar to access public resources such as water bodies, temples and schools?

  1. (a) Bombay Peasants Revolt
  2. (b) Kheda Satyagraha
  3. (c) Shahada Movement
  4. (d) Mahad Satyagraha
Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Mahad Satyagraha

Answer: Option 4 — Mahad Satyagraha
In March 1927, Dr B.R. Ambedkar led Dalits to drink water from the public Chavdar tank at Mahad (Raigad district, Maharashtra).
It asserted their right to use public water sources and other public places.
Revision note — Dr B.R. Ambedkar and the anti-caste movement
• Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha — founded 1924, Bombay, for education and welfare of the depressed classes.
• Mahad Satyagraha — 20 March 1927; on 25 December 1927 Ambedkar publicly burnt the Manusmriti at Mahad.
• Kalaram Temple entry satyagraha — Nashik, 1930.
• Depressed Classes Association — 1930.
• Poona Pact — 1932 with Gandhi: reserved seats for depressed classes in place of separate electorates.
• Newspapers: Mooknayak (1920), Bahishkrit Bharat (1927); book Annihilation of Caste (1936).
Do not mix these up
• Mahad Satyagraha vs Vaikom Satyagraha — Mahad (1927, Maharashtra) was for water, led by Ambedkar; Vaikom (1924–25, Kerala) was for use of temple roads, linked to T.K. Madhavan and E.V. Ramasamy Periyar.
Also asked from this topic: the leader of the Mahad Satyagraha (B.R. Ambedkar); the founder of the Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha (B.R. Ambedkar, 1924); the year of Ambedkar's Depressed Classes Association (1930).

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