Class 8 English Chapter 6 Solutions: Verghese Kurien – I Too Had A Dream

Verghese Kurien- I Too Had A Dream Question Answer – Let us do these activities before we read. (Page 82)

I. Arrange the worldwide means of communication given below in the timeline provided.

Carrier pigeons → Telegraph → Postcard → Telephone → Mobile phone → Email

II. Work in pairs and discuss the following things.

1. The reasons for change in the means of communication over the years.

2. The means of communication that you prefer to use and the reason for your choice.

3. Communication through social media: its benefits and precautions that one should take against its misuse.

Answer:

1. Because of new technology, easy access, and the need to communicate quickly.

2. I like using email since it helps me write clearly and I can keep the messages for later.

3. Social media helps people stay connected, but we must be careful about fake news, bullying, and spending too much time on it.

Verghese Kurien- I Too Had A Dream Class 8 Question Answer – Let us discuss (Page 85)

A fact is something that can be proven true or false. A fact is not based on people’s beliefs.

An opinion on the other hand is a belief, feeling or judgement, and can vary from one person to another. An opinion cannot be proven.

I. Identify which of the following statements are facts and which are opinions.

1. But speaking on the telephone only gives us an immediate but fleeting joy.

2. I started my working life soon after our country became independent.

3. To be quite honest, service to our nation’s farmers was not the career I had envisioned for myself.

4. I knew I could make a more meaningful contribution by working here in Anand, Gujarat.

5. … values that I saw in my mentor and supporter here in Anand—Tribhuvandas Patel.

6. Life is a privilege, and to waste it would be wrong.

7. I hope that you, too, will discover, as I did, that failure is not about not succeeding.

8. … the magnificent ceremony in which the President awarded me the Padma Vibhushan in 1999?

Answer:

1. Opinion

2. Fact

3. Opinion

4. Opinion

5. Fact

6. Opinion

7. Opinion

8. Fact

Class 8 English Verghese Kurien- I Too Had A Dream Question Answer – Let us think and reflect (Pages 86-88)

I. Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow.

1. In today’s fast-paced world we have become so addicted to instant communication that we prefer to use a telephone. But speaking on the telephone only gives us an immediate but fleeting joy. Writing is different. Writing—even if it is a letter—not only conveys our present concerns and views of the events taking place around us but it becomes a possession that can be treasured and reread over the years, with great, abiding pleasure.

When the writer refers to a ‘fast-paced world’, he is speaking of a world where _______ (communication happens quickly but lacks depth/ people have more time to write and reflect)

Answer:

Communication happens quickly but lacks depth

(ii) Select the option that applies correctly to both Assertion (A) and Reason (R).

(A): Writing letters can be treasured and re-read over the years.
(B): Speaking on the telephone provides long-lasting joy.

A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).

C. (A) is true, but (R) is false.

D. Both (A) and (R) are false.

Answer:

C. (A) is true, but (R) is false

(iii) Identify whether the statement given below is true or false.

The writer feels that letter-writing is a class apart from other kinds of writing.

Answer:

True

(iv) Which of the following is the most appropriate title for the given extract?

A. The Rise of Instant Communication

B. The Fleeting Delight of Phone Calls

C. The Lasting Joy of Written Words

D. Living in a Fast-paced World

Answer:

C. The Lasting Joy of Written Words

2. Your grandmother, too, made an important choice. She knew, in those early days, life in Anand could not offer even the simple comforts that we take for granted today. However, she ardently supported my choice to live and work in Anand. That choice of your grandmother to stand by me has given me an everlasting strength, always ensuring that I shouldered my responsibilities with poise.

(i) How can we say that the grandmother shared her husband’s dedication to a greater cause?

Answer:

Because she let go of her own comforts so that she could stand by her husband and support his decision to work for the farmers.

(ii) Complete the following with the correct option from the two given in brackets. The fact that the writer (grandfather) praises his wife tells us that he _______ (truly values/quietly accepts) her role in his life.

Answer:

truly values

(iii) Complete the following sentence with the correct option from those given below.

Based on the information in the extract, we can infer that the grandmother had all of the following traits EXCEPT
A. encouraging
B. understanding
C. comforting
D. thoughtful

Answer:
C. Comforting

(iv) Select the phrase that conveys— ‘showed grace under pressure and carried out my duties with dignity and confidence’.

Answer:
“shouldered my responsibilities with poise”

II. Answer the following questions.

1. What event does Dr. Kurien refer to when he mentions receiving the Padma Vibhushan?
Answer:
Dr. Kurien is talking about the time he received the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour, for his major role in the White Revolution and in improving the country’s dairy sector. This award represents the nation’s appreciation for his lifelong efforts toward rural growth and strengthening cooperative movements.

2. How did Dr. Kurien’s decision to join the cooperative in Anand affect his life?
Answer:
Dr. Kurien’s choice to work with the cooperative in Anand changed his entire life. Even though he did not plan to stay at first, he decided to help the dairy farmers. This led him to build the cooperative dairy movement, create Amul, and lead the White Revolution. His work became a lifelong mission to uplift rural India, and he eventually became a national figure known for his dedication, innovation, and service to farmers.

3. Dr. Kurien’s decision to work in Anand reveals his values and sense of duty. Explain.
Answer:
Dr. Kurien’s choice to stay in Anand, rather than pursue a more lucrative or comfortable career, reveals his deep sense of responsibility, commitment to social justice, and empathy for farmers. Despite being a government employee posted elsewhere, he decided to serve the rural community, reflecting his selflessness, patriotism, and belief in grassroots development.

4. Why did Dr. Kurien write the letter to his grandson?
Answer: Dr. Kurien’s decision to remain in Anand instead of choosing a higher-paying or more comfortable job shows his strong sense of duty and concern for farmers. Although he was supposed to work elsewhere as a government employee, he chose to support the rural community. This reflects his selflessness, love for the nation, and belief that true progress begins at the grassroots level.

5. According to Dr. Kurien “life is a privilege and it is wrong to waste it”. What is your opinion on this?
Answer:
I agree with Dr. Kurien. Every person gets a chance to make a positive difference in life, even in small ways. Life is a precious gift that gives us opportunities to grow, help others, and create something good. If we use it only for selfish reasons, we not only limit our own growth but also fail to contribute to society. Living with purpose, as Dr. Kurien did, brings satisfaction and helps improve the lives of others.

6. What message does Dr. Kurien want to convey about selfless service and its long-term impact on the society?
Answer:
Dr. Kurien highlights that true, selfless service can bring real and lasting change. By devoting his life to improving rural India, he showed that helping others can build stronger communities, create economic growth, and promote fairness. His achievements proved that when a person works with honesty and a clear vision, their efforts can benefit people for many generations.

Verghese Kurien- I Too Had A Dream Class 8 Questions and Answers – Let us learn (Pages 88-92)

I. Replace the underlined words in each sentence with the correct synonym from the box. You may refer to a dictionary.

2. I felt a fleeting joy when I received the appreciation for my song.

3. With today’s instant communication, we can share information across the world in seconds.

4. Our school focuses on the core values— collaboration, innovation, and unity.

5. My teacher’s advice on time management is a valuable reminder of the importance of planning.

6. Reading books and listening to music can give abiding pleasure that will last forever.

Answer:

1. Magnificent → Splendid

2. Fleeting → Momentary

3. Instant → Swift

4. Core → Essential

5. Valuable → Useful

6. Abiding → Lifelong

II. Match the expressions from the text in Column 1 with their meanings in Column 2.

Answer:

III. Make as many words as you can out of the following words. One example has been done for you.

1. community — city, toy, tune, unity, mutiny, cot

2. important

3. magnificent

4. satisfied

5. generation

6. Achievement

Answer:

1. Important → port, part, rant, ramp, point

2. Magnificent → magi, gift, cent, tent, gain

3. Satisfied → side, date, fade, safe, said

4. Generation → gene, ratio, torn, ring, rate

5. Achievement → achieve, men, vent, cheat, time

IV. Let us play a word game—antakshari.

1. Write the synonym of the word according to the clues given below.

2. For example, the synonym of the first word, ‘IMPORTANT’ ends with the letter T’. The synonym of the second word begins with T’, TROUBLE’. Then write the synonym of the third word starting with the letter ‘E’.

3. Now, continue with the word game.

(ii) problem (synonym)

(iii) uneven (antonym)

(iy) related to post office

(v) our moral duty

(vi) related to time

(vii) prosperous (synonym)

(viii) related to being alive

Answer:

(i) The conference will be held from March 15 March 20.

(ii) I have lived in Kanpur Raipur for five years now.

(in) The artist known for her vibrant paintings will be showcasing her work in Guwahati.

(iv) The scores for the final match were 2 3.

(v) My favourite snacks samosas, pakoras, and jalebis are all from India.

(vi) The train journey from Belagavi Bengaluru takes less than ten hours.

(vii) I just finished reading the book it was absolutely amazing!

(viii) The event will take place on September 1 September 5.

Answer:

(i) March 15 to March 20

(ii) Kanpur to Raipur

(iii) The artist, known for her vibrant paintings, will be showcasing her work.

(iv) 2 to 3

(v) My favourite snacks, samosas, pakoras, and jalebis, are all from India.

(vi) Belagavi to Bengaluru

(vii) I just finished reading the book. It was absolutely amazing!

(viii) September 1 to September 5

VI. Fill in the blanks by choosing the correct word from the options given in the brackets.

(i) Please remember to bring ___________ (your/you’re) assignment book.

(ii)The team celebrated ___________ (their/they’re) victory after the match.

(iii)___________ (its/it’s) important to stay hydrated during the hot summer days.

(iv)I can’t believe ___________ (your/you’re) going to the mango festival today.

(v)The students said ___________ (they’re/their) excited for the field trip tomorrow.

(vi) The tree lost ___________ (its/it’s) leaves in the winter.

Answer:

(i) your

(ii) their

(iii) it’s

(iv) you’re

(v) they’re

(vi) its

VII. Complete the following sentences with suitable prepositional phrases.

(ii) Nisha placed the vase on ___________

(iii) We discussed the project in ___________

(iv) Preethi found the lost book under _______

(v) The cat slept on _______

Answer:

(i) the garden

(ii) the table

(iii) the meeting

(iv) the bed

(v) the sofa

VIII. Rearrange the following jumbled words and phrases into meaningful sentences.

1. barked/at the strangers/the dog/ loudly/the house/walking by

2. wrote/my classmate/during the/a story/ summer vacations

3. enjoyed/under the trees/they/by the lake/a picnic

4. in his / grandfather’s room/ hung/ he / the painting

5. studied/with great determination/for/ students / the / exam

Answer:

1. The dog barked loudly at the strangers walking by the house.

2. My classmate wrote a story during the summer vacations.

3. They enjoyed a picnic under the trees by the lake.

4. He hung the painting in his grandfather’s room.

5. The students studied with great deter¬mination for the exam.

Verghese Kurien- I Too Had A Dream Question Answer Class 8 – Let us listen (Page 93)

I. You will listen to the passage about Evelyn Glennie’s journey in overcoming her hearing loss through music and turning a physical disability into a success story. (Refer to NCERT Texbook Page 100 for transcript)

You will listen to a woman read a special broadcast of the news. As you listen, arrange the pictures in the correct sequence of events that took place.

Now, for the special broadcast, we bring you the story of a young hero whose courage has captured the nation’s heart.

On a fateful morning in Rajouri, young Rohan Ramchandra Bahir, a 15-year-old student, became a local hero when he fearlessly saved the life of a woman who had fallen into the Domri River while washing clothes. The 43-year-old woman was struggling to stay aflat in the strong currents, when Rohan, without a moment’s hesitation, leapt into the river, putting his own life at risk.

With great determination and courage, Rohan managed to reach the woman and pull her to safety, despite the dangerous conditions of the river. Onlookers who witnessed the incident were in awe of the young boy’s bravery.

Rohan’s selflss act did not go unnoticed. His incredible courage was recognised at Vigyan Bhawan, where he was honoured with the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2023 by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu.

This remarkable young boy is now a symbol of heroism in his community, and his story is an inspiration to all. We commend Rohan for his bravery and for showing that age is no barrier when it comes to saving lives.

After listening, match the words given in Column 1 with their meanings given in Column 2.

Answer:

II. Listen to the passage once again and state whether the statements given below are true or false.

1. Evelyn Glennie became deaf suddenly.
Answer: False

2. Her headmistress ignored the signs of her hearing loss.
Answer: False

3. Ron Forbes was a percussionist who helped Evelyn.
Answer: True

4. Evelyn used her skin and bones to sense music.
Answer: True

5. She gave up on music after her diagnosis.
Answer: False

III. Answer the following questions in one or two words.

1. How did Evelyn turn her disability into strength?
Answer: They sense or detect vibrations.

2. What role did Ron Forbes play in her life?
Answer: Mentor/Percussionist

3. What lessons can we learn from Evelyn’s stoiy about how to treat others who have different abilities or challenges?
Answer: Respect and support them

Class 8 English Chapter 6 Question Answer – Let us speak (Page 94)

I. Read the highlighted word in the following sentence from the text.

That common good will present itself to you in many forms every day.

The highlighted word is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable. PreSENT (verb) the stress is on the second syllable.

PREsent (noun) the stress is on the first syllable.

Now, read aloud the given words with the correct syllable stress according to the part of speech given in the brackets.

PROduce (noun) conTRACT (verb) PROject (noun) conTENT (verb) REfuse (noun)

Answer:
Do it yourself.

II. Read the highlighted words in the following sentence from the text.
…but it becomes a possession that can be treasured and re-read over the years, with great, abiding pleasure, treasure [treh-Zhuh] pleasure [pleh-Zhuh]
In the highlighted words, -sure has a ‘Zhuh’ sound.
There are some words which end in -sure, but have a ‘shuh’ sound as in pressure [preh-shuh].
Now, read aloud the words given below with the ‘shuh’ or ‘zhuh’ sound.

Words with the “Shuh” sound (sharp ‘sh’ even though ending in -sure):
pressure, fissure, ensure, unsure

III. 1. Read aloud the following lines from the poem.

Don’t Quit

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,

when the road you’re trudging seems all uphill,

when the funds are low and the debts are high,

and you want to smile but you have to sigh,

when care is pressing you down a bit —rest if you must,

but don’t you quit.

Edgar Albert Guest

Now, read the lines of the poem once again by taking a shorter pause (/) or a long pause (//).

Answer:

When things go wrong,/as they sometimes will,//

when the road you’re trudging/seems all uphill,//

when the funds are low/and the debts are high,//

and you want to smile/but you have to sigh,//

when care is pressing you down a bit/

—rest if you must,/

but don’t you quit.//

2. Chunk the stanzas with (/) or (//) and read it aloud.

Life is queer with its twists and turns.

As everyone of us sometimes learns.

And many a fellow turns about when he might

have won had he stuck it out.

Don’t give up though the pace seems slow—

you may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than it seems to a faint and faltering man.

Answer:

Life is queer with its twists and turns, /

As everyone of us sometimes learns. / /

And many a fellow turns about /

when he might have won /

had he stuck it out. / /

Don’t give up / though the pace seems slow— /

you may succeed / with another blow. / /

Often the goal is nearer than it seems /

to a faint and faltering man. / /.

NCERT Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 6 Question Answer – Let us write (Page 95)

I. Write a letter to your grandparents thanking them for the valuable lessons they have taught you. Include how their wisdom has shaped your values and behaviour in life.

1. Thank them for teaching you important lessons, sharing stories, or helping others in the neighbourhood.

2. Share how their actions inspire you to contribute to the betterment of the society.

Answer:

Dear Grandma and Grandpa,

I hope you are both doing well. I am writing this letter to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the wisdom and values you have shared with me over the years. Your life stories, kindness, and the way you help everyone in the neighborhood have made a deep impact on me.

Grandpa, your honesty and sense of responsibility have taught me to always do what is right, even when no one is watching. Grandma, your compassion and calm nature inspire me to be patient, gentle, and caring. Because of both of you, I have learned the importance of hard work, humility, and helping others without expecting anything in return.

I try to follow your example by helping my friends at school, respecting my teachers, and being kind to anyone who needs support. Your words and actions guide me every single day.

Thank you for shaping me into a better person.

With lots of love and gratitude,
[Your Name]

Class 8th English Chapter 6 Verghese Kurien- I Too Had A Dream Question Answer – Let us explore (Page 96-97)

I. Read about White Revolution, Green Revolution and Blue Revolution from: NCERT Textbook Page 96.

In groups of four, research more information about these revolutions. Share your findings with your classmates and teacher.

The White Revolution led to a increase in milk production in India primarily due to the effrts of Dr. Verghese Kurien. Therefore, he is known as ‘the Milkman of India’.

Do it yourself.

II. Vocational training for people in rural regions is provided by the Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS), under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India. The objective of JSS is to economically uplift the rural population by imparting essential skill-based training. This enables local trades to grow and creates new opportunities for the people in the region.

Find out more about JSS with the help of the link given below, https: //jss.gov.in/staticPages

Answer:

Do it yourself.

III. Financial Literacy
Read the passage and discuss the questions given below.

Financial literacy is an essential lifelong skill that should be taught to children from an early age. Preparing children with financial literacy skills is an investment for their future well-being. By imparting an understanding of money, saving, budgeting, and wise spending, we empower them to navigate the financial world with confidence as they grow up.

Whether it is managing a cooperative society, a start-up, or a household budget, financial literacy is an ongoing learning process that evolves as children grow and their understanding deepens. An introduction to concepts of saving, budgeting, investing, and responsible spending equips them with essential life skills.

Children learn best through practical examples. Real-life situations help them understand the value of money and the importance of making wise financial choices. Thinking critically before spending helps cultivate responsible habits. The concept of saving and investing can be explained through relatable examples, such as planting seeds that grow into trees bearing fruit.

As children grow older, they will learn to differentiate between needs and wants, compare prices before making a purchase and understand the importance of financial literacy.

Discuss in groups.
1. The importance of learning about money and saving from a young age. Share one example of it.

2. Imagine you received some money as a gift. How would you decide whether to save it, spend it, or invest it? What factors would you consider?

3. If you were in charge of planning a small event at school with a limited budget, how would you manage the money?

4. Why is financial literacy important for everyone?

Answer:
1. Learning about money and saving from a young age is important because it helps children build good financial habits for the future. For example, if a child saves a part of their pocket money regularly, they can later buy something meaningful like a book or a toy. This teaches them patience, planning, and the value of saving.

2. If I received money as a gift, I would think about my needs, future plans, and how I can use the money wisely. I would save some for emergencies or future goals, spend a little on something useful or enjoyable, and keep a part for investing so it can grow. My decision would depend on how urgent my needs are, how much I already have saved, and what good saving or investment options I have.

3. To plan an event within a budget, I would list all the important items and estimate their costs. Then I would focus on spending only on the most essential things, look for cheaper options like borrowing or using donations, and keep track of all expenses to avoid overspending. I would also set aside some money for unexpected costs.

4. Financial literacy is important for everyone because it helps people make smart decisions about saving, spending, budgeting, and investing. It builds confidence to handle financial problems and encourages responsible money habits. Whether it is for personal life, managing a home, or running a business, financial literacy helps ensure long-term financial security and stability.

Learning Verghese Kurien I Too Had A Dream Class 8 English Poorvi

Understanding the life and values of Verghese Kurien is crucial for Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 6. Focusing on NCERT Solutions Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 6 Verghese Kurien I Too Had A Dream (2025-26) helps in building a strong foundation in value-based questions.

This chapter highlights honesty, humility, and determination as key learning takeaways. Regular practice of chapter exercises and value-based reflections prepares students for exams and nurtures life skills essential for future success.

To excel, keep revising important expressions, word meanings, and self-assessment tasks from the chapter. These solutions will boost your confidence, improve your writing skills, and help secure high marks in school tests.