Midterm Exam

AREKHA HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOL 

CHHUKHA DZONGKHAG 

MIDTERM EXAMINATION 2025

Class: X                                                                                            

Full Mark: 100

Subject: History                                                                              

Pass Mark: 80

Date: 24/06/2025

Writing Time:2 Hours 

SECTION A [40 MARKS]

ANSWER ALL THE QUESTIONS

Question 1

a] Direction: For multiple choice questions, there are four alternatives: A, B, C, and D.       Choose the correct alternative and write it in your answer sheet.                      [10]                                   

i.               What was a key reason for introducing the Kathrim [Code of Law] in Bhutan under Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal?

A.   To blend religious principles with legal governance across the nation

B.    To clearly define governance structures and enforce justice nationwide

C.    To grant more autonomy to local village leaders and regional governors

D.   To limit the power of religious officials in political decision-making

ii.             George Bogle’s mission to Bhutan after the Friendship Treaty was significant because it 

A.   enforced British political dominance and annexed parts of Bhutan

B.    established permanent British residency and missionary settlements in Bhutan

C.    restricted Bhutanese trade by imposing high duties on their goods in Bengal

D.   negotiated trade agreements and gathered cultural and geopolitical information

iii.            The Treaty of Sinchula was signed between Bhutan and the British in 1865. Which of the following was a major weakness of the treaty for Bhutan?

A.    Bhutan lost a large portion of its territory

B.    Bhutan gained unnecessary allies

C.    Bhutan lost control over Cooch Behar

D.    Bhutan became a British protectorate

iv.            The drafting of Bhutan’s Constitution was a major political transformation. The main reason for involving people from different sections of society in the drafting committee was 

A.    To promote religious teachings in the Constitution

B.    To make the process faster and easier

C.    To ensure the Constitution reflected the views of all Bhutanese people

D.    To increase the power of the Council of Ministers

v.              The Fourth Druk Gyalpo’s abdication was seen as a selfless act. How did the Bhutanese people and the world respond to his decision?

A.    The news shocked both Bhutan and the world

B.    People protested and demanded an answer

C.    Most citizens welcomed the sudden decision

D.    Leaders quickly called for fresh elections

vi.            What was one major benefit of revising the Bhutan-India Friendship Treaty in 2007?

A.   Bhutan could take full control of India's trade routes

B.    Bhutan was allowed to rule parts of Indian territory

C.    Bhutan stopped all military cooperation with India

D.   Bhutan gained more say in foreign affairs decisions

vii.          The factor that most deepens the symbolic significance of Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck’s birth in 2016 within Bhutan’s spiritual and historical context is 

A.    It occurred on Bhutan’s Independence Day

B.    It was during the Prime Minister’s birthday week

C.    It aligned with historic and spiritual anniversaries

D.    It happened soon after national elections

viii.         Her Majesty’s patronage of initiatives like the Bhutan for Life fund and Zero Waste Hour most strategically contribute to Bhutan’s long-term national resilience by 

A.   promoting Bhutanese identity through artisanal products

B.    ensuring financial and behavioral sustainability of environmental conservation

C.    reducing dependency on foreign aid for trade logistics

D.   helping improve Bhutan's ranking in global tourism indices

ix.            Which of the following best explains why the Bhutanese Constitution assigns the unique role of religious patronage exclusively to The Druk Gyalpo rather than allowing other individuals or organizations to do so?

A.   To ensure that Buddhism remains the state religion and is promoted above others

B.   To give political power to religious leaders within the government

C.   To allow religious institutions full freedom to engage in political activities

D.   To maintain religious neutrality and prevent conflicts among different faiths

x.              The statement that best describes the role of the Bhutanese Parliament in environmental conservation, according to Article 5 of the Constitution, is

A.   Parliament can make laws and declare protected areas for conservation.

B.   Parliament protects sacred forests and rivers through religious laws.

C.   Parliament manages only the policies made by the Royal Government.

D.   Parliament leaves environmental protection to local governments alone.

b)    Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate word.              [7]

                 i.     The Article 4 recognizes that culture is not fixed—it keeps _________________ with time.

                ii.     In 2016, the ­­­­_______________­­­____________was established to showcase Bhutan's highlanders to the world.

              iii.     The _________________was in the eastern part of present-day Nepal, west of Sikkim.

              iv.     The Bhutanese Armed Forces had never used weapons in combat before; they were first used during Operation ________________.

                v.     If three-fourths of the members of the National Assembly pass a ____________________, the Druk Gyalpo must abdicate the throne in favour of the Crown Prince or a legitimate heir.

              vi.     The sacred ________________ consisting of five colours representing elements, symbolized His Majesty's connection to Bhutan's spiritual heritage. 

             vii.     During Jigme Singye's time as Desi, Bhutan maintained a neutral stance in the war between __________ and Nepal. 

               i.     Evolving/changing 

             ii.     Royal Highlander Festival

            iii.     Limbu Kingdom [Vijaypur] 

            iv.     Flush Out

              v.     vote of no confidence

            vi.     Dhar Kha Nga

          vii.     Sikkim 

c)     Write TRUE or FALSE for each of the following statements.                          [7]

1.  Chhoe Thrim Dhargyi Duedphoe [ཆོས་ཁྲིམས་དར་གྱི་མདུད་ཕུད།] refers to spiritual law, often symbolized as a soft, silken knot—gentle yet binding in guiding moral and ethical conduct.

2.     Devendra Narayan became the King of Cooch Behar after Rajendra Narayan was captured by Bhutan.

3.    Bhutan maintained custodial rights over Swambhunath and ten other temples in Nepal until the 20th century.

4. The Khamdang Integrated Project was launched to support farmers affected by drought and involved both government support and community participation.

5.  Both tangible and intangible forms of culture are recognized and protected under Article 4 of the Constitution.

6.  Every citizen is a trustee of Bhutan’s natural resources and shares the responsibility to protect the environment.]

7. His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck was crowned with the Raven Crown by His Holiness the Je Khenpo during the coronation ceremony at Tashichhoedzong.

        i.     True 

       ii.     False

     iii.     False

     iv.     True

       v.     True 

     vi.     True 

    vii.     False 

d)    Write brief answers to the following questions.                                                                [10]    

i.What were the main ways Druk Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuck decentralised power, and how did these changes benefit local communities?                                  [2]

• He established District Development Committees [DDCs] and Block Development Committees [BDCs] to give local leaders more decision-making authority.

• These changes benefited local communities by ensuring that development initiatives were aligned with their needs and priorities, leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes.

2. Why was the abdication of the throne by His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo in 2006 significant for Bhutan's transition to a constitutional monarchy?                  [2]

• It marked the beginning of a historic journey towards a Constitutional Monarchy by transferring power from the monarch to elected representatives.

• This transition laid the groundwork for democratic governance in Bhutan and prepared for the introduction of parliamentary democracy under the new Constitution.

3. How did the establishment of the Bhutan National Legal Institute [BNLI] contribute to the consolidation of democracy, and what are its main goals?

• BNLI was created to strengthen the legal system and promote Bhutanese culture, ensuring a fair and just society.

• Its goals include teaching law, conducting research, and preserving Bhutanese traditions, ultimately aiming for a happy, peaceful, and strong Bhutan.

   iv.         What is Gross National Happiness [GNH], and why is it important for Bhutan?

• Gross National Happiness [GNH] is Bhutan’s development philosophy that focuses on the well-being and happiness of its people rather than just economic growth.

• Importance: GNH ensures balanced development by protecting the environment, preserving culture, promoting good governance, and improving living standards.
  
  
  

5. Why do you think the Desuung Skilling Programme of Druk Gyalpo Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck is becoming popular? State TWO reasons.                        [2]

• Jobs & Opportunity: The program equips DeSuups with valuable skills to find good jobs.

• Empowerment: It offers personal growth and a chance to contribute more.

SECTION B [60 MARKS]

ANSWER ALL THE QUESTIONS

Question 2

a)    How did Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal’s introduction of the Dual System of Government [Chhoe-sid Nyiden] shape the political, religious, and legal foundations of Bhutan? Discuss THREE significant impacts.                                                               [3]

• United the Country:
  The Dual System helped bring all regions together and made Bhutan a strong and united country.

• Set Up Laws:
  Zhabdrung introduced Kathrim, a set of laws that made people follow rules and kept the country peaceful.

• Protected Culture and Religion:
  The system supported Bhutanese traditions and Buddhism, helping to keep the country's culture and identity alive.

b)    How the Bhutanese constitution [Tsathrim chenmo] is deeply rooted in the Kathrim codified by Zhabdrung? Validate with THREE reasons.                                                 [3]

• Legal Foundation – Zhabdrung’s Kathrim introduced basic rules like fairness and justice, which are also in the Constitution today.

• Democratic Values – Kathrim supported fair leadership, just like the Constitution now protects people's rights and promotes equality.

• Cultural Link – Both Kathrim and the Constitution respect Bhutan’s culture and traditions, keeping the country’s identity strong.

c)     Apart from the gho and kira, what are FOUR other unique cultural elements introduced by Zhabdrung that helped shape Bhutanese identity? Explain each briefly.             [4]

• Driglam Namzha
  Zhabdrung introduced Driglam Namzha, the official code of etiquette that guides Bhutanese customs, behavior, and social manners.

• Unique Monastic Culture
  He established a distinct Drukpa monastic tradition in Bhutan, different from Tibetan monastic practices, which shaped Bhutan’s religious identity.

• Dzong Architecture
  Zhabdrung promoted building dzongs—large fortress-monasteries that serve both religious and administrative purposes—symbolizing Bhutanese culture and unity.

• Zhugdrel Phuensum Tshogpa Ceremony
  He introduced this special ceremony symbolizing national unity, performed before major events to bring blessings, peace, and good fortune.

Question 3

a)     In what ways did Gongsa Ugyen Wangchuck’s diplomacy help maintain Bhutan’s independence while managing relations with Tibet and British India? Explain with THREE examples.                                                                                        [3]

• Gongsa Ugyen Wangchuck acted as a mediator between the British and Tibetans during the Younghusband Expedition, protecting Bhutan’s interests and avoiding direct conflict.

• He maintained Bhutan’s political independence from Tibet while keeping strong religious ties with Tibetan monks.

• The Treaty of Punakha strengthened Bhutan’s relationship with British India, accepted British guidance in foreign affairs, and increased subsidies, helping Bhutan modernize and stay independent.

d)    What were the THREE main consequences of Bhutan’s first conflict with British India during Desi Zhidar’s time?                                                                               [3]

• Defeat and Loss: Bhutanese forces were defeated, which weakened Bhutan’s military strength and made Desi Zhidar unpopular among the people.

• Political Unrest: The defeat led to internal conflicts and political instability in Bhutan, as rivals used the situation to challenge Desi Zhidar’s leadership.

• Change in Leadership: Before Zhidar returned from the war, his opponents replaced him with Kuenga Rinchen as the new Druk Desi, forcing Zhidar to flee to Tibet and lose power permanently.

e)     Describe any FOUR key political reforms introduced in Bhutan during the 1990s and early 2000s that paved the way for democracy.                                                   [4]

• Strengthening Local Governments:
  The establishment of Dzongkhag Yargay Tshogchung [DYT] and Gewog Yargay Tshogchung [GYT] empowered local leaders to oversee development, fostering community involvement in decision-making.

• Giving More Power to the Council of Ministers [1998]:
  The King allowed elected ministers to have more authority in running the country, sharing power and making the government more responsible.

• Vote-of-No-Confidence Against the King [1998]:
  The National Assembly could now express no confidence in the King, meaning the King’s rule depended on the people's support, making the monarchy accountable.

• Lhengye Zhungtshog Act [1999]:
  This created a Council of Ministers elected by the Assembly, making leadership more democratic and transparent.

• Local Elections Begin [2002]:
  People started electing their local leaders directly, giving citizens a stronger voice and more control over local governance. 

Question 4

a)   Drafting a written Constitution was a crucial step in Bhutan’s political transformation during the early 2000s. Write THREE reasons highlighting the importance of this process.                                                                                                [3]

• • Clear Rules for Government: The Constitution explained how the government works and what each leader should do.

• People’s Involvement: Many people from different areas helped write the Constitution, and everyone had a chance to share their ideas.

• ·Unity and Agreement: When the King and Parliament signed the Constitution, it showed that everyone agreed to work together for a better future.

b)    Describe the role of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo in addressing the militant threat in Bhutan during the early 2000s. Explain any THREE ways in which his leadership contributed to resolving the conflict.                                       [3]

• His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo preferred peaceful solutions and personally visited militant camps to ask them to leave Bhutan peacefully.

•  He initiated and supported talks with militant groups to resolve the issue without violence.

• He worked closely with Indian leaders to strengthen border security and coordinate efforts against militants.

• When peaceful efforts failed, he courageously led the military operation to remove the militants from Bhutan.

• His leadership inspired and motivated the Bhutanese soldiers and people during the crisis.

c) His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo played a vital role in establishing democracy in Bhutan, guiding the country from an absolute monarchy to a democratic constitutional monarchy where the people have a voice in governance. Why is democracy important for a country like Bhutan? Explain FOUR reasons.                                  [4]

• People’s Participation: Democracy allows citizens to take part in decision-making, making sure their voices and needs are heard.

•  Accountability: Leaders are accountable to the people, which helps reduce corruption and ensures better governance.

• Protection of Rights: Democracy protects the rights and freedoms of individuals, allowing everyone to live with dignity and fairness.

• Peace and Stability: Democratic processes help resolve conflicts peacefully and promote stability by giving people a fair chance to express their opinions.

Question 5

a)     Explain any two roles for the following:                                                  [4]

          i.       Why is the Royal Institute for Governance and Strategic Studies [RIGSS] important for Bhutan’s democracy and leadership

         ii.     De-suups’ contribution to Bhutanese society, especially during emergencies like COVID-19

i. Roles of the Royal Institute for Governance and Strategic Studies [RIGSS] and its importance:

• Leadership Training: RIGSS provides training to current and future leaders to improve their skills in governance and strategic thinking.

• Platform for Discussion: It serves as a place where leaders from different sectors come together to discuss important national issues and plan for Bhutan’s future.

ii. Roles of De-suups and their contribution during emergencies like COVID-19:

• Guardians of Peace: De-suups help maintain peace and order during public events and emergencies, supporting the police and community.

• Emergency Support: During the COVID-19 pandemic, De-suups acted as frontline workers, assisting people and helping manage the crisis effectively.

b)  How has His Majesty the Druk Gyalpo’s vision and initiatives influenced Bhutan’s economic development and improved the livelihoods of its people? Explain by describing the roles of any THREE institutions he established.        [6]

• Druk Holding and Investments [DHI]:
  Established in 2007, DHI manages government investments in important sectors like energy, communication, and finance. It oversees major hydroelectric projects, which generate revenue and strengthen Bhutan’s economy.

• Natural Resources Development Corporation Limited [NRDCL]:
  NRDCL ensures the availability of building materials like sand, stone, and timber at reasonable prices. This helps people build homes more affordably and supports better living conditions.

• National Land Commission Secretariat [NLCS]:
  Under His Majesty’s command, NLCS led the National Cadastral Resurvey Programme to resolve land ownership issues. This land reform granted land kidu to many citizens, providing security and opportunities to improve their lives.

• Bhutan Economic Forum for Innovative Transformation [BEFIT]:
  Created to promote innovative and inclusive economic growth, BEFIT serves as a platform for experts to discuss strategies that support Bhutan’s long-term development and democratic transition.

Question 6

a)  His Majesty the King is often called “Kidui Pham” [the Great Benefactor]. Explain this title in relation to his social initiatives, focusing on the National Rehabilitation Programme and education reforms. Provide TWOpoints for each initiative to support your explanation.                                                                                                   [4]

National Rehabilitation Programme [NRP]:

• The NRP was launched to help poor and landless families, especially in rural areas, by providing them land, tools, and resources to build better lives.

• It supported these families with basic services such as housing, water, electricity, and roads, significantly improving their living conditions and reducing poverty.

Education Reforms:

• His Majesty gave high priority to education, believing it is essential for Bhutan’s growth and future, and personally leads efforts to support students and educational institutions.

• He introduced scholarship programs to ensure equal access to education for all students, regardless of their economic background, helping to create opportunities for a better life.

b) If you were one of the members in the National Assembly in 2005, would you have supported the decision of Fourth Druk Gyalpo to abdicate the throne? Justify your stand with THREE reasons.                                                                         [6]

·  Promoting Democracy: The King’s decision paved the way for Bhutan to transition smoothly into a democratic system where citizens have a voice in governance.

·  Trust in Leadership: The Fourth Druk Gyalpo had carefully prepared the new King to lead the country, which gives me confidence in continued stable and effective leadership.

·  Ensuring Stability and Progress: By abdicating, the King helped maintain national unity and allowed Bhutan to focus on peaceful development and growth without disruption.

Question 7

a)     What actions would you suggest to promote the principles outlined in Article 4 of the Bhutanese Constitution? Provide at least THREE initiatives.                                           [3]

• Join Cultural Events – I can participate in school and community festivals, dances, and programs to keep our traditions alive.

• Learn Cultural Values in Class – Studying Driglam Namzha and local history helps me understand and respect our culture.

• Support Traditional Crafts – I can join exhibitions or craft fairs to promote and appreciate Bhutanese arts and skills.

a)     What are TWO reasons that define you as a Bhutanese? Explain each reason.           [2]

b)    According to Article 5 of the Constitution of Bhutan, what is one core responsibility each for the people, the government, and the Parliament in protecting the environment? Explain how each one of them is expected to fulfill its role in environmental conservation.           [3]

1. People

Responsibility: Act as trustees of the environment.
Citizens must adopt eco-friendly practices and help protect nature for future generations.

2. Government

Responsibility: Protect and conserve the environment and biodiversity.
The government must implement policies to prevent pollution and ensure sustainable development.

3. Parliament

Responsibility: Enact environmental laws.
Parliament creates laws to manage resources wisely and declare protected areas to conserve ecosystems.

c)     Compose a two-stanza poem that expresses admiration and respect for His Majesty the King, highlighting his leadership and contributions to the nation.                            [2]