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Chapter Analysis
Intermediate18 pages • EnglishQuick Summary
This chapter explores the functioning of key democratic institutions in India, specifically the executive, legislature, and judiciary. It describes how major policy decisions are made and implemented, highlighting the interconnected roles and responsibilities of these institutions. It explains the importance of institutions in ensuring democratic governance and accountability. The chapter uses examples of parliamentary discussions and Supreme Court decisions to illustrate these processes.
Key Topics
- •Functioning of democratic institutions
- •Roles of executive, legislature, and judiciary
- •Policy decision-making process
- •Parliamentary system dynamics
- •Judicial review and independence
- •Mandal Commission and reservation policy
Learning Objectives
- ✓Understand the decision-making process in government.
- ✓Identify the functions and powers of India's key political institutions.
- ✓Analyze the role of Parliament in shaping national policy.
- ✓Explore the implications of judicial decisions on public policy.
- ✓Evaluate the effectiveness of democratic checks and balances.
Questions in Chapter
If you are elected as the President of India, which of the following decisions can you take on your own?
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Who among the following is a part of the political executive?
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Which of the following statements about the judiciary is false?
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Which of the following institutions can make changes to an existing law of the country?
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Match the ministry with the news that the ministry may have released.
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Of all the institutions that we have studied in this chapter, name the one that exercises the powers on each of the following matters.
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Why is the Prime Minister in India not directly elected by the people?
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Three friends went to watch a film that showed the hero becoming Chief Minister for a day and making big changes in the state. What would be your reaction to such a film?
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A teacher was making preparations for a mock parliament. She gave an option to have a majority either in the mock Lok Sabha or in the mock Rajya Sabha. Which one would you choose and why?
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After reading the example of the reservation order, students had different reactions about the role of the judiciary. Which view, according to you, is a correct reading of the role of judiciary?
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Additional Practice Questions
Explain the significance of the separation of powers among the executive, legislature, and judiciary in a democracy.
mediumAnswer: The separation of powers ensures that no single branch of government becomes too powerful. Each branch has its distinct roles and responsibilities, providing checks and balances against each other. This separation helps to protect citizens' liberties and prevents the abuse of power.
Discuss the role of the Prime Minister in the Indian parliamentary system.
mediumAnswer: The Prime Minister is the head of the government in India and leads the executive branch. They are responsible for executing policies, running the government, and making key policy decisions. The PM also represents the country in diplomatic matters and coordinates between various government departments.
What challenges does coalition politics pose to the functioning of the Indian Parliament?
hardAnswer: Coalition politics can lead to instability as coalition partners may have conflicting interests. It necessitates negotiations and compromises, which can sometimes slow down decision-making or lead to watered-down policies. However, it also represents a broader spectrum of the electorate, providing diverse viewpoints in governance.
Why is an independent judiciary essential in a democracy?
mediumAnswer: An independent judiciary is crucial in a democracy as it ensures that laws and policies are implemented fairly. It acts as a check on the powers of the executive and legislature, protects citizens' rights, and interprets constitutional provisions. Without judicial independence, there is a risk of legal decisions being influenced by political pressures.
Analyze the impact of the Mandal Commission recommendations on Indian society.
hardAnswer: The Mandal Commission recommendations, which reserved jobs for socially and educationally backward classes, had profound impacts by promoting social equality and reducing caste hierarchies. However, it also triggered debates and protests about the fairness of reservations and their impact on meritocracy. It remains a contentious topic with ongoing discussions.
How does the President of India exercise power in the parliamentary system?
mediumAnswer: In India's parliamentary system, the President exercises power primarily in a ceremonial and constitutional role, acting on the advice of the Council of Ministers. The President facilitates the formation of government, gives assent to laws, and represents the nation, embodying the unity and integrity of the state.