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English Core · 2026 · 5 marks
CBSE 2026 · Region 4 · Set 1 · Q12
Analyse the theme of poverty and exploitation as reflected in 'Lost Spring' and 'A Roadside Stand'.
Analyse the theme of poverty and exploitation as reflected in 'Lost Spring' and 'A Roadside Stand'.
Board’s value points
What CBSE’s own marking scheme for this paper expects an answer to cover.
Lost Spring:
web of extreme poverty- a trap for children like Saheb and Mukesh/ forces child labour
miserable/inhuman living condition of the poor
social injustice- vicious circle of middlemen, police, politicians, etc. / Lack of opportunities, education and resources
leads to loss of childhood and dreams
A Roadside Stand:
shows rural poverty and economic struggle of villagers
villagers exploited and marginalised/victims of greedy politicians, etc.
receive little benefits from city dwellers and politicians
Both reflect social/governmental apathy/indifference and neglect.
Promises made to them are not kept.More from Flamingo: Lost Spring
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CBSE Class 12 English Core past-paper question from the 2026board exam, with the answer as CBSE’s own marking scheme gives it. Where our answers come from.