NCERT Class 9 English Carrier of Words & Words – Complete Question Answers and Solutionsitle
Short Intro
This study material provides complete step-by-step solutions and explanations for all the questions from the chapters “Carrier of Words” and the poem “Words”. The content is designed in Unicode format and follows a structured approach suitable for educational portals such as MyMockMate. It includes summaries, concepts, grammar explanations, vocabulary, literary devices, MCQs, FAQs, and exam tips.
Quick Information Box
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Book Name | Kaveri |
| Chapter Name | Carrier of Words |
| Genre | Prose |
| Main Theme | Dedication and Service of Rural Postmen |
| Poem Name | Words |
| Poet | Charles Swain |
| Key Focus | Communication, Emotions, Human Connection |
| Important Character | Khetaram |
| Profession Highlighted | Gramin Dak Sewak (GDS) |
Concepts Used (Topics Covered)
- Reading Comprehension
- Theme and Message
- Character Sketch
- Vocabulary in Context
- Literary Devices
- Present Perfect Tense
- Active and Passive Voice
- Critical Thinking
- Poetry Appreciation
- Communication Skills
- Condolence Message Writing
- Grammar Applications
Important Formulas
Present Perfect Tense
Subject + has/have + past participle + object
Example:
- She has completed her homework.
- They have written letters.
Passive Voice Formula
Object + is/am/are + past participle + by + subject
Example:
- The letter was delivered by the postman.
Chapter Summary – Carrier of Words
The lesson “Carrier of Words” highlights the life and dedication of Khetaram, a Gramin Dak Sewak (GDS) working in the harsh desert regions of Rajasthan near the Indo-Pakistan border. Despite extreme heat, sandstorms, and difficult terrain, he continues to deliver letters and money orders to remote villages. The chapter shows how deeply villagers trust the postal system and the emotional connection between the postman and the people. The lesson pays tribute to rural postal workers who bridge distances and emotions.
Questions and Step-by-Step Solutions – Carrier of Words
Reading for Meaning – Fill in the Blanks
Answers
- signals
- dunes
- hamlets
- defying
- slumped
- devoid
Explanation
The words fit according to the context of the desert journey and conditions described in the passage.
Check Your Understanding – Information Sheet
| Field | Answer |
| Name | Khetaram |
| Position | Gramin Dak Sewak |
| Employer | India Post |
| Official Address | Somarad Branch Post Office |
| Mode of Transport Used | Walking on foot |
| Key Responsibilities | Delivering mail, reading letters, drafting replies, carrying money orders |
Explanation
Khetaram serves remote desert villages where transport facilities are unavailable.
Discussion Answers
1. Why did Khetaram take up this challenging job?
Answer
Khetaram took up this job because farming alone could not support his family. Drought and famine were common in his area, and the salary from the postal department gave him a stable source of income.
Explanation
The chapter clearly mentions that one crop of bajra was insufficient for his family’s survival.
2. How would Khetaram feel about this task?
Answer
Khetaram would feel proud and responsible because he serves people living in remote regions. Though the work is difficult, he values the trust people place in him.
Check Your Understanding – Table Completion
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
| When temperature reaches 50°C, a holiday is declared | Extreme heat makes work dangerous |
| Khetaram can dwell on any threshold | Villagers trust and respect him |
| BSF always gave Khetaram a lift | They appreciated his service |
Short Answer Questions
Why was a piece of jaggery offered?
Answer
A piece of jaggery was offered as a symbol of happiness and celebration whenever Khetaram brought news of births or weddings.
How would phone lines help Khetaram?
Answer
Phone lines would help him become a Gramin Sanchar Sewak. He could deliver both mobile communication and postal services more efficiently.
Critical Reflection – Extract 1
(i) Why does one crop of bajra make little difference?
Answer
One crop of bajra is insufficient because the harsh desert conditions and famine make farming unreliable.
(ii) Why did Khetaram call famine a way of life?
Answer
Famine frequently occurs in the desert region, making scarcity and drought a regular part of life.
(iii) Why did Khetaram take the job?
Answer
He took the job to support his family financially and avoid starvation.
(iv) Analogy
Other families : Money orders :: Khetaram : Postal job
(v) What does “a good year” signify?
Answer
It signifies a year with enough rainfall and a successful crop.
Critical Reflection – Extract 2
(i) Who tore the right corner of the envelope?
Answer
B. Sender of the letter
(ii) Why did Khetaram read the letter twice?
Answer
He read it twice to ensure the family fully understood the sad news.
(iii) What was his philosophy?
Answer
He believed bad news should be destroyed after being communicated so that sorrow does not linger.
(iv) True or False
False
(v) What aspect of temperament is revealed?
Answer
His compassionate and sensitive nature is revealed.
Long Answer Questions
1. Why is the role of GDS invaluable?
Answer
The role of GDS is invaluable because they deliver postal services in remote and inaccessible regions where transportation facilities are unavailable. They maintain communication between families and provide financial support through money orders.
2. Difference between India Post and British postal system
Answer
The British postal system mainly served administrative purposes, while India Post aimed to connect the entire population, especially rural communities.
3. How did people trust GDS?
Answer
- Villagers allowed Khetaram to read and write letters for them.
- People depended on him for money orders and important news.
4. Why was Khetaram grateful after 60?
Answer
He was grateful because the job gave him financial security and social respect.
5. Why does the author pay tribute to people like Khetaram?
Answer
The author admires their dedication, honesty, and service to society despite harsh conditions.
Vocabulary and Structures in Context
Match the Phrases
| Phrase | Meaning |
| crumbles into sand | disappears in the desert |
| give a new lease of life | get a chance to continue living |
| turn into a trickle before drying out | lessen gradually and finally stop |
| bearing words across this desolate geography | carrying letters to less populated areas |
Alliteration and Metaphor
Alliteration
- scorching summer
- swirling sandstorms
Metaphor
- walking sandman
Explanation
The author uses figurative language to create vivid imagery of desert life.
Match the Words
| Word | Suggestion |
| arid | farmland without much yield |
| concessional | interest rate for farmers |
| gaunt | farmer waiting for rains |
| remote | corner of the world |
| desolate | desert stretching far and wide |
Present Perfect Tense – Fill in the Blanks
- have
- collected
- have studied
- have begun
- has truly inspired
Passive Voice Exercise Answers
A. should be practised B. will be expected C. should be written D. will be asked E. should be worn
Listen and Respond Answers
I
request
II
- (i) Letter writing carnival
- (ii) in the world
- (iii) forgotten
- (i) calligraphy and graphology
- (i) interactive demonstrations
Writing Task – Sample Condolence Message
Date: 20 July 20XX
Dear Aunt,
We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing away of your father. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. May God give strength to you and your family during this difficult time. We pray for eternal peace for the departed soul.
Yours sincerely, Your Loving Family
Poem Summary – Words
The poem “Words” by Charles Swain emphasizes that words alone are often insufficient to express deep emotions. The poet compares meaningless words to weeds and empty air. He believes that a few sincere words are more valuable than many superficial ones.
Check Your Understanding – Fill in the Blanks
- depart
- pilgrim
- weeds
- joy
- lonely
- world
- fruit
Poetic Devices
Rhyming Words
- heart – depart
- care – air
- needs – weeds
- cheer – dear
Rhyme Scheme
ABAB
Literary Devices Explanation
“Words, like summer birds, depart”
Device
Simile
Meaning
Words disappear quickly like birds flying away.
“Heart, a pilgrim upon earth”
Device
Metaphor
Meaning
The heart is compared to a traveler searching for meaning.
“Words are of as little worth as weeds”
Device
Simile
Meaning
Empty words are useless like weeds.
“The world might hold a feast”
Device
Hyperbole
Meaning
The poet exaggerates to show happiness.
Repetition in the Poem
Repeated words:
- words
- heart
- satisfy
Purpose
Repetition emphasizes the poet’s main message about meaningful communication.
Emotions in the Stanzas
Correct Option: (i)
- Disillusionment
- Admiration
- Frustration
Hyperbole Practice Answers
- tonnes of
- a mile
- decade
- two seconds
Critical Reflection – Poem
Why is the heart called a pilgrim?
Answer
The heart is called a pilgrim because it constantly searches for emotional satisfaction and understanding.
When would the heart need words?
Answer
The heart needs words during emotional situations like sadness, loneliness, or love.
Why are words like weeds?
Answer
Because meaningless words have little value and fail to provide comfort.
Two emotions experienced by the heart
- loneliness
- disappointment
Nature of communication
Answer
True communication requires sincerity and emotions, not just many words.
Long Answer Questions – Poem
1. Comparison between words and empty air
Answer
The poet says words can disappear quickly and leave no impact, just like empty air.
2. Why are meaningful words precious?
Answer
A few sincere words can deeply touch the heart, unlike many meaningless words.
3. Does the poet present contrasting ideas?
Answer
Yes. The poet contrasts since
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