NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Kaveri Chapter 7 Carrier of Words 2026-27

Reflect and Respond (Pages 203-204)

I. Look at the pictures given below of persons engaged in the same profession.

Image 1

Discuss in pairs and share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

Question 1. Which profession do they belong to?

Answer: The people shown in the pictures belong to the profession of postmen or postal workers.

Question 2. Do they face any difficulties while doing their duty?

Answer: Yes, postmen face many challenges while doing their duty. They may have to walk long distances, carry heavy mailbags, travel through difficult routes, and work even in harsh weather conditions such as extreme heat, cold, or rain.

Question 3. How does their profession affect the people they meet?

Answer: Their profession has a strong impact on the lives of people. They help families stay connected by delivering letters, parcels, money orders, and important documents. They often bring both joyful and sad news, and people trust them as dependable messengers.

II. Discuss in groups.

Question 1. How can ‘words’ be ‘carried’?

Answer: Words can be carried through letters, postcards, written messages, parcels, and other forms of communication sent from one person to another.

Question 2. Who could be a carrier of words?

Answer: A postman, postal worker, messenger, or anyone who delivers written messages can be called a carrier of words.

Question 3. What are the means for people to stay connected?

Answer: People can stay connected through letters, postcards, money orders, telephones, mobile phones, and the internet. In modern times, people also use SMS, email, and messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and other digital platforms.

III. Read the words given in the box below and place them in their appropriate context in the following passage.

Image 2

We stepped out of the vehicle at the end of the road. Immediately, our body sent 1. _______ that our decision to visit the sand 2. _______ in the afternoon was insane. We had passed a few 3. _______ on our way to the desert. We could not find even a single soul outdoors, 4. _______ the blazing sun. Even the camels were 5 . _______ in the little shade offered by the khejri trees. In this remote place people relied on Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) to connect to the world as the area was 6. _______ of any other network service.

Answer:

1. signals

2. dunes

3. hamlets

4. defying

5. slumped

6. Devoid

Check Your Understanding (Page 207)

I. Khetaram needs to submit information about himself for getting an identity card. While reading the text, fill up the following information sheet for Khetaram.

Answer:

II. Discuss with your teacher.

Question 1. Why do you think Khetaram has taken up this challenging job?

Answer: Khetaram has taken up this difficult job because it gives him a regular source of income and helps him support his family. It also allows him to serve people living in remote villages who depend on him for letters, money orders, and important news.

Question 2. How do you think Khetaram would feel about taking up this challenging task every day?

Answer: Khetaram would probably feel both proud and tired. He may feel proud because he performs an important duty by connecting people in faraway villages. At the same time, the long walks, extreme heat, and difficult routes would make the task physically exhausting.

Check Your Understanding (Page 210)

I. Complete the table given below with the situations given in Column 1 and the reasons in Column 2.

Answer:

II. Why was a piece of jaggery offered in the village when he brought news of a birth or weddings?

Answer: A piece of jaggery was offered because sweet things are traditionally shared on happy occasions. When Khetaram brought good news such as a birth or wedding, the villagers offered him jaggery as a symbol of joy and gratitude.

III. How would phone lines help Khetaram in his job?

Answer: Phone lines would make Khetaram’s work much easier. People could receive urgent messages quickly without waiting for letters. It would also reduce the need for Khetaram to travel long distances only to deliver important information. A mobile phone or telephone connection would help him communicate faster and save time.

Critical Reflection (Pages 210-212)

I. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions.

1. “Akaal or famine is a way of life here. In a good year, I get one crop of bajra. That cannot feed my family of five. We would starve without this job,” he says.

And for each family which resides in this arid land, survival is partly dependent on money orders remitted by a relative.

(i) Complete the sentence given below with an appropriate reason.

One crop of bajra makes a little difference for people like Khetaram because _______ .

Answer: it is not enough to feed the whole family or provide a stable income throughout the year.

(ii) Why did Khetaram term famine as ‘a way of life’?

Answer: Khetaram called famine “a way of life” because he lived in a dry desert region where farming was very difficult. Even in a good year, he could grow only one crop of bajra, which was not sufficient to support his family. Scarcity and hardship were therefore a regular part of life for him.

(iii) Give one reason why Khetaram had to take up a job to help his family to survive.

Answer: Khetaram had to take up a job because farming alone could not provide enough food or income for his family of five.

(iv) Complete the analogy given below with a word from the extract.

Other families: Money orders:: Khetaram:

Answer: job

(v) What would ‘a good year’ signify?

Answer: A good year would mean a year in which Khetaram is able to grow at least one crop of bajra.

2. There is one letter delivery he dreads. The envelope with the right corner torn off, which signifies that the missive bears news of death.

“Ashubh Samachar cannot be carried into the house,” says Khetaram. So, he stands outside, reads out the letter twice, then tears it to bits. “Bad news must be destroyed,” he mutters philosophically.

(i) Choose the correct option for the following question.

Who could have torn the right corner of the envelope?

A. Khetaram
B. Sender of the letter
C. Receiver of the letter
D. The postmaster

Answer: B. Sender of the letter

(ii) Complete the sentence with an appropriate reason.

The most likely reason for Khetaram reading the letter twice is because _______ .

Answer: he wanted to make sure that the family clearly understood the sad and serious message.

(iii) What was Khetaram’s philosophy regarding bad news, and how did he act upon it?

Answer: Khetaram believed that bad news should not be taken inside the house. So, when he brought a letter carrying news of death, he stood outside, read it aloud twice, and then tore it into pieces.

(iv) State whether the following sentence is true or false.

Khetaram’s action of tearing the letter differed from his beliefs.

Answer: False.

Reason: His action supported his belief that bad news should not enter the house and must be destroyed.

(v) Mention any one aspect of Khetaram’s temperament which is revealed through this extract.

Answer: The extract shows Khetaram’s sensitive and thoughtful nature. He handles painful news carefully and respects the emotions of the people receiving it.

II. Answer the following questions.

Question 1. Justify the statement made by PostmasterGeneral, Rajasthan Western Region stating that the role of GDS is ‘invaluable’.

Answer: The role of a GDS is called “invaluable” because Gramin Dak Sewaks are extremely important in rural and remote areas. They deliver letters, parcels, and money orders to places where regular services may not easily reach. They also act as trusted helpers for villagers by reading letters, writing replies, and connecting families separated by distance.

Question 2. How was the purpose of India Post different from that of the British postal system?

Answer: The British postal system in India was mainly created to serve the needs of the colonial administration. In contrast, India Post works for the people of the country. It connects remote villages, delivers letters and parcels, provides money order and banking services, and supports employment in rural areas.

Question 3. People trusted Gramin Dak Sewaks. Support this statement with any two instances from the text.

Answer: People trusted Gramin Dak Sewaks deeply. First, villagers allowed them to enter their homes, read out letters, and even write replies for them. This shows the personal trust they had in them. Second, when there was a plan to replace GDSs with patwaris, it was dropped because patwaris could not perform the same difficult duties with the same dedication and trust.

Question 4. Infer the most likely reason that Khetaram was grateful to continue as GDS, even after the age of 60 .

Answer: Khetaram was grateful to continue as a GDS even after the age of 60 because the job was his main source of livelihood. Farming gave him very little income, and his family depended on his postal work for survival.

Question 5. Explain why the author pays tribute to people like Khetaram.

Answer: The author pays tribute to people like Khetaram because they perform their duty with great dedication despite extreme difficulties. They walk long distances, face harsh weather, and serve remote villages with honesty. Their work keeps people connected and supports families who depend on postal services for letters, money orders, and important news.

Vocabulary and Structures in Context (Pages 212-215)

I. Study the phrases given in Column 1 and match them with their meanings in Column 2.

Answer:

Now, use the phrases from Column 1 in sentences of your own.

Answer:

1. The old wall began to crumble into sand after years of exposure to wind and heat.

2. The timely medical treatment gave the patient a new lease of life.

3. Due to the long summer, the stream turned into a trickle before drying out completely.

4. The postman walked through the lonely desert, bearing words across this desolate geography and connecting distant families.

II. Identify examples of alliteration and metaphor in the extract given below.

Image 3

Khetaram’s khaki turban and uniform are his only protection against the desert’s furies, the scorching summer winds and swirling sandstorms which turn him into a walking sandman.

Answer: Alliteration refers to the repetition of the same sound or letter at the beginning of nearby words.

Examples of alliteration:
Khetaram’s khaki
scorching summer
swirling sandstorms

Metaphor refers to a direct comparison between two things without using words such as “like” or “as”.

Example of metaphor:
a walking sandman

Here, Khetaram is called “a walking sandman” because the desert sand covers him while he walks through harsh winds and sandstorms.

III. Match the words in Column 1 to what they suggest in Column 2 in the context of the chapter.

Answer:

Now, use the words from Column 1 in sentences of your own.

Answer:

1. The arid land made farming very difficult for the villagers.

2. The bank provided a concessional interest rate to support poor farmers.

3. The old man looked gaunt after many days of illness.

4. The family lived in a remote village far away from the town.

5. The desolate desert stretched endlessly in every direction.

IV. Read the underlined verbs in the sentences given in Column 1 and their functions in Column 2.

All the verbs in the sentences in Column 1 are in present perfect tense.

The structure is: has/have + past participle (third form of the verb).

Now, fill in the blanks by using the present perfect form of the verbs given in the brackets to complete the following paragraph.

1. I _______ (has/have) just _______ (get) a collection of postage stamps from my grandfather. He 2. _______ (collect) these stamps over a period of 20 years. I 3. _______ (study) most of the stamps in his collection and loved all of them. I 4. _______ (begin) my own collection of postage stamps. Grandfather 5. _______ truly _______ (inspire) me.

Answer:

1. I have just got a collection of postage stamps from my grandfather.

2. He has collected these stamps over a period of 20 years.

3. I have studied most of the stamps in his collection and loved all of them.

4. I have begun my own collection of postage stamps.

5. Grandfather has truly inspired me.

V. Study the sentences given below.

1. GDS delivers the mail at the border.

When the subject does the action, the sentence is in active voice.

2. The mail is delivered by the GDS at the border.

This implies that the ‘mail’ receives the action ‘deliver’.

This sentence is in passive voice because the subject is receiving the action.

Carrier of Words Question Answer Class 9 English Kaveri Chapter 7

3. Khetaram’s nephew wants to join the GDS. He asks Khetaram how to prepare for it. Khetaram gives him the following advice.

(i) You will need a lot of stamina for this job.
(ii) Practise reading clearly as some of the villagers will expect you to read out the letters.
(iii) Write words neatly as some villagers will ask you to draft replies.
(iv) Wear full-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect yourself from the heat.

Now, complete the following paragraph about the advice given by Khetaram. One example has been done for you.

To begin with, a lot of stamina will be needed for this job. Next, reading clearly A. _______ , as you B. _______ to read out the letters by some of the villagers. Words C. _______ neatly as you D. _______ to draft replies by some villagers. Full sleeved-shirts and trousers E. _______ to protect yourself from the heat.

Answer: To begin with, a lot of stamina will be needed for this job. Next, reading clearly A. will be important, as you B. may be expected to read out the letters by some of the villagers. Words C. must be written neatly as you D. may be asked to draft replies by some villagers. Full sleeved-shirts and trousers E. should be worn to protect yourself from the heat.

Listen and Respond (Pages 215-216)

I. You will listen to a girl talking about an event. As you listen, fill in the blank with the suitable word from the brackets. (Transcript for teacher on page 272)

The speaker concluded her talk with a _______ . (suggestion/request/advice)

Answer: request

II. You will listen to the girl talking about the event again. As you listen, choose the correct option for the following questions.

Question 1. What was the occasion that the speaker was talking about?

(i) Letter writing carnival
(ii) Philately day
(iii) Indian Postal Day

Answer: (iii) Indian Postal Day

Question 2. India Post is famous for having the most extensive network _______ .

(i) in India
(ii) in the world
(iii) among design institutes

Answer: (ii) in the world

Question 3. Letter writing is being revived as this art form has been _______ .

(i) celebrated
(ii) appreciated
(iii) forgotten

Answer: (iii) forgotten

Question 4. Which of the following will be a part of the letter writing carnival?

(i) calligraphy and graphology
(ii) origami and designing
(iii) letter posting and philately

Answer: (i) calligraphy and graphology

Question 5. What will the postal department add to the event?

(i) interactive demonstrations
(ii) theatre and dance
(iii) workshop for letter writing

Answer: (i) interactive demonstrations

Speaking Activity (Pages 216-217)

I The postcard, inland letter, envelope, and money order form were engaged in a discussion on who the most important one was.

Image 4

In groups of four, select one each and reason with each other logically. You may use the points for discussion given in Column 1 and the cues given in Column 2 to express your opinion.

Image 5

Column 1 (Points for discussion) & Column 2 (Verbal cues to present opinion)

utility
cost effective
privacy
space to write
possibility of enclosures

It seems to me that…
Some people say that…
I would like to point out that…
I totally agree that…
That’s one way to look at it but…

Answer:

Postcard: It seems to me that I am the most useful for short and simple messages. I may not offer privacy, but I am quick, easy to use, and cost-effective.

Inland Letter: That’s one way to look at it, but I provide both space and privacy. Since I can be folded and sealed, I allow people to write personal messages safely at a low cost.

Envelope: I would like to point out that I am more suitable for important communication. Letters, photographs, cards, and documents can all be placed inside me. I offer privacy and enough space, though I may cost more.

Money Order: Some people say that words are powerful, but I carry money with trust and responsibility. I help families send financial support to loved ones living far away.

Postcard: I totally agree that each of us has a different use. I am best for brief and cheerful messages.

Inland Letter: I think I am useful when people want to write longer letters privately.

Envelope: I am needed when documents and enclosures must be sent safely.

Money Order: And I am important when people need to send money securely.

All Together: We are all important in our own ways because each of us helps people stay connected.

Writing Task (Pages 217-218)

A condolence message communicates your feelings to someone whose relative or a person close to them has just passed away. It mentions how sorry you feel for the loss and your prayers for strength to the family members.

I. Khetaram saw a letter with a torn corner. It had news about Bhawar Singh’s uncle passing away.

Read the condolence message that Sawant Singh sent to his cousin as a reply to the letter.

Image 6

Now, on behalf of your parents draft an imaginary condolence message for your aunt on the recent passing away of her father.

Answer:

20 February, 2027

Dear Aunt,

We were deeply saddened to hear about the passing away of your father. Please accept our heartfelt condolences during this painful time. Losing a parent is a great loss, and we understand how difficult this moment must be for you.

May the loving memories you shared with him give you strength and comfort. Please remember that you are not alone. We are always with you and your family in this time of sorrow.

We pray that you find peace, courage, and strength in the days ahead.

With sympathy,
Aditya Malhotra

Learning Beyond the Text (Pages 218-219)

I. The unique ‘Daakroom’ carnival was conceptualised by the Ministry of Culture to re-introduce children and larger audiences to letter writing in innovative, creative, and engaging ways. It also hosted competitions and workshops around writing and post. The one-of-a-kind letter writing event, supported by India Post, Ministry of Culture, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti is aimed to give a digital detox with the aim of reviving the art of letter writing in India.

Image 7

II. Did you know? The study of postage stamps and postal history is called philately. It is possible to be a philatelist without owning any stamps. The stamps that you study may be rare ones and found only in museums.

1. Study the postage stamps given below and discuss who or what they depict.

Image 8

Answer:

The postage stamps depict the following:

Sarojini Naidu Stamp:

This stamp depicts Sarojini Naidu, a famous freedom fighter, poet, and political leader. She was also known as the “Nightingale of India” because of the beauty and musical quality of her poetry. She became the first Indian woman to serve as the President of the Indian National Congress and later became the Governor of the United Provinces. Her poems, such as “In the Bazaars of Hyderabad,” “The Bangle Sellers,” and “Indian Weavers,” are well known.

Kishore Kumar Stamp:

This stamp features Kishore Kumar, one of the most celebrated playback singers in Indian cinema. Born as Abhas Kumar Ganguly, he was also an actor, composer, and director. He is remembered for his expressive voice, versatility, and unique singing style. He sang thousands of songs in different Indian languages and remains one of the most loved voices in Indian film music.

Teej Festival Stamp:

This stamp shows women dressed in traditional clothes celebrating the Teej festival. It highlights India’s colourful festivals, cultural practices, and traditional celebrations.

Painted Stork Stamp:

This stamp depicts the painted stork, a beautiful bird found in India. It represents India’s rich biodiversity and reminds people of the importance of wildlife protection.

Konark Sun Temple Stamp:

This stamp shows the famous Konark Sun Temple in Odisha. The temple is known for its brilliant architecture and historical importance. It reflects India’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

2. Work in groups of five. Find information about stamps on the following categories and note details as directed.

personalities: name and the field they belong to
celebrations: festivals/national events-name and significance
centenaries: name of person/occasion and significance
nature: name and significance
our heritage: monuments/music/dance-name and significance

Now, prepare a class board on ‘PhilatelyUpholding Our Heritage’ with your findings.

Answer:

Students may use the following points to prepare a class board on philately.

Personalities

Name: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
Field: Social reformer, jurist, economist, and chief architect of the Indian Constitution.

Celebrations

Festival/Event: Kumbh Mela
Significance: Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. It represents faith, devotion, and India’s spiritual traditions.

Centenaries

Occasion: Birth Centenary of Guru Dutt
Significance: Guru Dutt was a famous filmmaker known for his contribution to Indian cinema. A commemorative stamp may be used to honour his artistic legacy.

Nature

Example: Royal Bengal Tiger
Significance: The Royal Bengal Tiger is India’s national animal. Stamps featuring it highlight the importance of wildlife conservation.

Our Heritage

Example: Konark Sun Temple, Odisha
Significance: Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It represents India’s architectural excellence and cultural richness.

III. In the past, telegram was a mode of fast communication, commonly used to quickly send short and specific messages, such as greetings and condolences. Its pricing structure was based on the number of words to be transmitted, and therefore, needed to be precise. The following form was used for sending such telegrams.

Image 9

Themes of Carrier of Words

The chapter touches on several themes that often appear in exam questions:

• Dignity of Labour & Unsung Heroes: The quiet, tireless service of Gramin Dak Sewaks who form the backbone of rural India's postal system.

• The Power of Words & Communication: How letters and messages connect families across great distances and bring hope, news, and support.

• Human Connection & Trust: The deep bond of trust between Khetaram and the villagers who welcome him into their homes.

• Resilience in Hardship: Surviving and serving in a region where famine is "a way of life."

CBSE Class 9 English Kaveri Chapter 7 Study Materials

Students can use the Chapter 7 study materials below to revise the lesson, practise extra questions, and strengthen their understanding of the story and language exercises.

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