Grade-X-Exam-Oriented Civics PYQs with Solutions | PAP Sir

 

                         1. Power Sharing

1. “The government measures gradually increased the feeling of alienation among the Sri Lankan Tamils.” Explain the statement.

(i) In 1956, an Act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language, thus disregarding Tamil.

(ii) The governments followed preferential policies that favoured Sinhala applicants for university positions and government jobs.

(iii) A new constitution stipulated that the state shall protect and foster Buddhism.

(iv) These measures gradually increased the feeling of alienation among the Sri Lankan Tamils.

(v) They felt that none of the major political parties led by the Buddhist Sinhala leaders was sensitive to their language and culture.

(vi) They felt that the constitution and government policies denied them equal political rights,

(vii) They are discriminated in getting jobs and other opportunities and their interests are ignored.

(viii) Any other relevant point.

2. “Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy.” Support the statement by giving suitable arguments.

(i) It helps to reduce the conflict between social groups.

(ii) Power sharing is a good way to ensure the stability of political order.

(iii) It is good for the unity of the nation.

(iv) People are the source of political power.

(v) Respect is given to diverse groups and views.

(vi) Any other relevant point.

3. Why did the feeling of alienation increase among the Sri Lankan Tamils in 1956? Explain.

i. In 1956 an act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language thus disregarding Tamil.

ii. The governments followed preferential policies for university positions and government jobs for Sinhalese.

iii. The new constitution stipulated that the State shall protect and foster Buddhism.

iv. Sinhala government ignored the interests of Tamils through their majoritarian policies.

v. Any other relevant point.

4. Explain any three steps taken by the Belgium government to accommodate regional differences.

(i) Constitutional provision which prescribes that the number of Dutch and French- speaking ministers shall be equal in the central government.

(ii) Many powers of the Central government have been given to State governments of the two regions of the country. The State governments are not subordinate to the Central Government.

(iii) Brussels has a separate government in which both the communities have equal representation. The French speaking people accepted equal representation in Brussels because the Dutch speaking community has accepted equal representation in the Central Government.

(iv) Apart from the Central and the State Government there is a third kind of government. This ‘Community government’ is elected by people belonging to one language community- Dutch, French and German speaking- no matter where they live.

(v) This government has the power regarding cultural, educational and language- related issues.

(vi) Any other relevant point.

5. Why did the feeling of alienation increase among the Sri Lankan Tamils in 1956? Explain.

i. In 1956 an act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language thus disregarding Tamil.

ii. The governments followed preferential policies for university positions and government jobs for Sinhalese.

iii. The new constitution stipulated that the State shall protect and foster Buddhism.

iv. Sinhala government ignored the interests of Tamils through their majoritarian policies.

v. Any other relevant point. Any two points to be explained.

 

6. “Political power cannot be divided.” Analyse suitable arguments against the statement.

(i) Power sharing is the essence of democracy.

(ii) One basic principle of democracy is that people are the source of all political power.

(iii) Undivided political power means dictatorship or totalitarianism which is absolutely against the principles of democracy.

(iv) Division or decentralization of power brings accountability and responsiveness.

(v) Divided power ensures checks and balances.

(vi) Division of power brings transparency in governance.

(vii) In a democracy, people rule themselves through the institutions of self government.

(viii) Division and sharing of power is valuable and legitimate.

(ix) In a good democratic government, due respect is given to diverse groups and views that exist in a society.

(x) Everyone has a voice in the shaping of public policies.

(xi) Divided power improves the quality of decision making and dignity of individuals.

(xii) Any other relevant point

7. “Why is power sharing desirable in democracy? Explain.

(i) It helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups.

(ii) It is the very spirit of democracy.

(iii) It ensures the stability of political order.

(iv) Democratic rule involves sharing of powers with those affected by its exercise.

(v) People have a right to be consulted on how they are to be governed.

(vi) Power sharing brings better outcomes.

(vii) Power sharing brings legitimacy as citizens through participations acquire a stack in the system.

(viii) Power sharing is valuable in its own self.

(ix) Any other relevant point (Any three points to be explained)

8. “In modern democracies, power sharing arrangements can take many forms.” Explain the statement.

(i) Horizontal distribution of power – Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive and judiciary.

(ii) Vertical distribution of power – Power can be shared among governments at different levels – general government for entire country and governments at the provincial or regional level.

(iii) Power sharing among social groups – Power many also be shared among different social groups, such as the religious and linguistic groups.

(iv) Power sharing arrangements among political parties, pressure groups and movements.

(v) Any other relevant point (Any three points to be explained)

 

9. Why is the division of power essential to democratic system? Explain.

(i) There are two different sets of reasons suggesting the importance of power sharing in a democracy-prudential and moral reasons.

(ii) Power sharing is good because it helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups.

(iii) Social conflict often leads to violence and political instability. Power sharing is a good way to ensure the stability of political order.

(iv) Imposing the will of majority community over others may look like an attractive option in the short run, but in the long run it undermines the unity of the nation.

(v) Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy.

(vi) A democratic rule involves sharing power with those affected by its exercise, and who have to live with its effects.

(vii) People have a right to be consulted on how they are to be governed.

(viii) A legitimate government is one where citizens, through participation, acquire a stake in the system.

(ix) Any other relevant point.

 

10. Analyze the vertical division of power in India.

(i) The division of powers involving higher and lower levels of government is called vertical division of power.

(ii) Power can be shared among governments at different levels – a general government for the entire country and governments at the provincial or regional level- state and local governments.

(iii) A general government for the entire country is usually called federal government.

(iv) In India, we refer to it as the Central or Union Government.

(v) The governments at the provincial or regional level are called by different names in different countries like state government in India.

(vi) The same principle can be extended to levels of government lower than the state government, such as the municipality and panchayat.

(vii) The constitution clearly lays down the powers of different levels of government.

(viii) This is called federal division of power.

(ix) Any other relevant point. Any three points

11. Evaluate the system of ‘Checks and Balances’ in the horizontal distribution of power in India.

(i) The horizontal form of power sharing allows different organs of government such as the legislature, executive and judiciary placed at the same level to exercise different powers.

(ii) Such a separation ensures that none of the organs can exercise unlimited power.

(iii) Each organ checks the others.

(iv) This results in a balance of power among various institutions.

(v) In a democracy, even though ministers and government officials exercise power, they are responsible to the Parliament or State Assemblies.

(vi) Although judges are appointed by the executive, they can check the functioning of executive or laws made by the legislatures.

(vii) This arrangement is called a system of checks and balances.

(viii) Any other relevant point.

12. How is the distribution of power among different social groups beneficial for democracy? Explain.

(i) Promotes equality.

(ii) Accommodates diversity.

(iii) Prevents domination of majority over the minority communities

(iv) Gives minority community a fair share in power.

(iii) “Reserved Constituencies” in assemblies and the parliament is the example of power sharing among different social groups.

(iv) Any other relevant points.

13. How does the Indian Constitution ensure the division of powers between the Union and State Governments? Explain.

(i)The Constitution clearly provided a three-fold distribution of legislative powers between the Union Government and the State Government.

(ii)Creation of Union, State and Concurrent lists.

(iii) The Union list includes subjects of international importance such as defence, foreign affairs, banking, communication, and currency.

(iv) The State list includes subjects of provincial and local importance such as police, trade, commerce, agriculture, and irrigation.

(v) The Concurrent list includes subjects such as education, forests, trade unions, marriage, adoption, and succession.

(vi) Sharing of power between the Union Government and the State Government is basic to the structure of the Constitution.

(vii) Judiciary plays an important role in overseeing the implementation of the Constitutional provisions and procedures.

(viii) Any other relevant point

14. Explain the effectiveness of horizontal distribution of ‘power sharing’ in the context of India.

(i) Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive, and judiciary.

(ii) It allows different organs of the government placed at the same level to exercise different powers.

(iii) Such a separation ensures that none of the organs can exercise unlimited power.

(iv) Each organ checks the other. (v) This results in a balance of power among various institutions.

(vi) Though executive exercises power, it is responsible to the Parliament or State Assemblies.

(vii) Although judges are appointed by the executive they can check the functioning of executive or review laws made by the legislature.

(viii) Any other relevant point.

15. Explain the effectiveness of vertical distribution of ‘power sharing’ in the context of India.

(i) The Constitution clearly lays down the power of different levels.

(ii) Power is distributed among three levels of government.

(iii) We refer to it as the Central or Union government, State government and Local government (Urban and Rural government).

(iv) It has increased participation of people at the grassroot level in decision making.

(v) It has improved the efficiency of governance.

(vi) It solves the problem at the local level.

(vii) Any other relevant point.

 

2. Federalism

1. How does the local government structure promote democracy? Examine.

 (i) It promotes grass root level democracy.

(ii) It deepens democracy.

(iii) Increases women’s participation.

(iv) Participation of people in decision making.

(v) Any relevant point.

2. “Sharing of power between the Union Government and the State Governments is basic to the structure of the Indian Constitution.” Analyse the statement with suitable arguments.

(i) Indian Constitution has adopted federalism where the powers are shared between the Centre and State.

(ii) It is not easy to make changes to this power sharing arrangement.

(iii) The Parliament cannot change the power sharing arrangement on their own.

(iv) Any change has to be first passed by both Houses by 2/3 majority. It has to be ratified by the legislature of at least half of the total seats.

(v) The Judiciary plays an important role in overseeing the implementation of Constitutional provisions and procedures.

(vi) Any other relevant point.

 

 

 

3. Gender, Religion and Caste

3. “The Constitution of India provides to all citizens the freedom to profess any religion.” Support the statements by giving two arguments.

(i) There is no official religion for the Indian state. 

(ii) Our Constitution does not give a special status to any religion. 

(iii) The Constitution provides to all individuals and communities freedom to profess, practice and propagate any religion, or not to follow any. 

(iv) The Constitution prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion. 

(v) At the same time, the Constitution allows the state to intervene in the matters of religion in order to ensure equality within religious communities. For example, it bans untouchability.

(vi) Any other relevant point.

Describe any two provisions made in the constitution to establish the model of ‘secular governance’ in India

(i) There is no official religion for the Indian state.

(ii) Our Constitution does not give a special status to any religion.

(iii) The Constitution provides to all individuals and communities, freedom to profess, practice and propagate any religion, or not to follow any.

(iv) The Constitution prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion.

(v) At the same time, the Constitution allows the state to intervene in the matters of religion in order to ensure equality within religious communities. For example, it bans untouchability.

(vi) Any other relevant point.

4. “The constitution of India prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion.” Justify the statement by giving two arguments.

(i) There is no official religion for the Indian state.

(ii) Our Constitution does not give a special status to any religion.

 (iii) The Constitution provides to all individuals and communities freedom to profess, practice and propagate any religion, or not to follow any.

(iv) The Constitution prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion.

(v) At the same time, the Constitution allows the state to intervene in the matters of religion in order to ensure equality within religious communities. For example, it bans untouchability.

 (vi) Any other relevant point.

 

5. “Secularism is the very idea of Indian Constitution.” Justify the statement.

(i) There is no official religion of the Indian State.

(ii) The Constitution treates all religions equally.

(iii) Constitution prohibits discrimination on the grounds of religion.

(iv) The Constitution allows the state to intervene in the matter of religion in order to ensure equality within religious communities.

(v) The Constitution provides to all individuals and communities freedom to profess, practice and propagate any religion, or not to follow any.

(vi) Hence, we can say that secularism is the very idea of the Indian Constitution.

(vii) Any other relevant point.

6. Suggest any five measures to establish the gender equality of labour.

(i) Promote education among women.

(ii) Equal employment opportunities.

(iii) Follow Equal Remuneration Act 1976 that provides equal wages should be paid to equal work.

(iv) Enhancing the political and legal status of women and career opportunities.

(v) Encourage participation of women among the highly paid and valued jobs.

(vi) Any other relevant point.

7. Suggest any two ways to increase women’s representation in leadership roles.

(i) Increasing training programmes.

(ii) Increasing mentorship programmes.

(iii) Improving career and educational opportunities for women.

(iv) Developing different skills among women.

(v) Laws like Nari Shakti,Vandan Adhiniyam (Womens’ Reservation Act 2023) should be effectively implemented.

(vi) Any other relevant point.

8. How did the feminist movements help to enhance the role of women in public life? Explain.

(i) Feminist movements support equal rights and opportunities for both men and women.

(ii) Encouragement given to women to increase participation in public life.

(iii) Feminist movements have enhanced legal status of women.

(iv) Women are working as scientists, engineers, doctors etc.

(v) Promotion of Equal Pay for Equal Work has helped to improve the position of women.

(vi) Improved educational and career opportunities have increased women’s participation in public life. (vii) Any other relevant point.

9. Suggest any two ways to promote women’s rights in India.

(i) Encouragement to be given to women to increase participation in public life.

(ii) Laws like Nari Shakti,Vandan Adhiniyam (Womens’ Reservation Act 2023) must be implemented effectively.

(iii) Enforcing Equal Pay for Equal Work

(iv) Improving educational and career opportunities.

(v) Promoting programmes on skill development.

(vi) Encouraging community support.

(vii) Legal protection to be given to promote women’s rights. (viii) Any other relevant point.

10. Suggest any two measures to prevent violence against women.

(i) Increasing the literacy rates of everyone in the country, especially women, will help improve the treatment of women in society.

(ii) Promoting legal awareness among women about existing laws to protect them from domestic violence and other types of exploitation.

(iii) Strengthening the laws to prevent domestic and workplace violence.

(iv) Increase in political representation.

(v) Any other relevant point

11. Mention any two steps taken by Indian government for the women empowerment.

 (i)One-third seats in local government bodies-in panchayats and municipalities- have been reserved for women.

(ii) Now there are more than 10 lakh elected women representatives in rural and urban local bodies.

(iii) A law has been made by the government to ban sex selective abortion which has increased the child sex ratio.

(iv) Beti Bachao, beti Padhao

(v) Sukanya Samridhi Yojna

 (vii) Any other relevant point

13. How has caste system in modern India undergone great change? Explain.

(i) With economic development and large-scale urbanization, large scale socio-economic changes have happened.

(ii) With the growth of literacy and education everyone is considered equal.

(iii) Due to occupational mobility and weakening of landlordism in the villages, the old notion of caste hierarchy is breaking down.

(iv) The constitution of India prohibited any caste-based discrimination.

(v) In the urban areas, no consideration of caste hierarchy is there as all the facilities are equal for everyone.

(vi) Any other relevant point

14. Suggest three steps to enhance the literacy rate among women in India.

(i) Government should initiate literacy enhancing programmes for urban as well as grass root level.  

(ii) Counselling sessions for parents and society for the promotion of enrolment and education.

(iii) Increase literacy campaigns to educate the girl child by enrolling them in formal schools.

(iv) Initiating educative programs and propaganda to break down traditional prejudices, against girl’s education.

(v) Granting concession in the form of scholarships to poor and meritorious girl students.

(vi) Effective enforcement of compulsory education of girls.

 (vii) Providing other convenience and incentive. Such as adjustment of school timings, free mid-day meals, free medical and health facilities etc.

(viii) Develop an environment where women could demand information.

(ix) Inculcate the confidence in women.

(x) Any other relevant point

15. “Communalism is harmful for the nation”.Explain.

 (i) When beliefs of one religion are presented as superior to those of other religions

(ii) Communal politics is based on the idea that religion is the principal basis of social community.

(iii) Communalism leads to the belief that people belonging to different religions cannot live as equal citizens in a nation.

(iv) People of one religion do not have the same interest and aspirations in every context Religious prejudices ,stereotypes of religious communities and belief in the superiority of one's religions over other religions

 

16. “Women face discrimination in various ways in our society.” Explain any two ways.

i Some Parents prefer to spend more resources for their sons rather than for their daughters.

ii Many women often face domestic violence.

iii Many a times highly paid valued jobs are very less for women.

 iv In many areas of work in private sectors women are not provided equal wages to men. v Any other relevant point

17. Suggest any two measures to increase the number of women in legislatures of India.

(i) To ensure a fair proportion of women in the elected bodies. 

(ii) To enhance political education and awareness amongst women.

(iii) Increase education and skill development among women.

(iv) Laws like Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023 should be effectively implemented.

(v) Any other relevant point

 

18. Suggest any two measures to remove gender inequality.

(i) By increasing the literacy rate among women

(ii) By increasing the political representation of women

(iii) By investing in education of girls.

(iv) Legal protection to women in the employment sector

(v) Any other relevant point.

 

4. Political Parties

1. Explain the importance of political parties in democracy.

(i) Political parties are the most visible institution in a democracy. 

(ii) They reflect fundamental political division in society.

(iii) Political parties contest elections.

(iv) Parties put forward different policies and programmes and the voters chose them.

(v) Parties play a decisive role in making laws for the country.

(vi) Parties form and run government.

(vii) Parties play the role of opposition by voicing different views and criticizing the government for its wrong policies.

(viii) Parties shape public opinion.

(ix) Parties provide people access to government machinery and welfare schemes. 

(x) Any other relevant point

 

2. Why did India adopt the multiparty system? Explain with suitable arguments.

(i) Party system is not something any country can choose. Each country develops a party system that is conditioned by its special circumstances.

(ii) India adopted multi-party system due to its social diversity.

(iii) India has vast geographical diversity. So, in such a large country diversity is not absorbed by two or even three parties.

(iv) Multiparty system allows a variety of interest and opinions to enjoy political representation.

(v) Any other relevant point.

3. Explain the importance of political parties in democracy.

(i) Political parties are the most visible institution in a democracy. 

(ii) They reflect fundamental political division in society.

(iii) Political parties contest elections.

(iv) Parties put forward different policies and programmes and the voters chose them.

(v) Parties play a decisive role in making laws for the country.

(vi) Parties form and run government.

(vii) Parties play the role of opposition by voicing different views and criticizing the government for its wrong policies.

(viii) Parties shape public opinion.

(ix) Parties provide people access to government machinery and welfare schemes. 

(x) Any other relevant point.

 

4. Describe three main functions of political parties.

(i) Political parties select candidates to contest elections.

(ii) Parties put forward different policies and programmes and the voters choose from them.

(iii) Parties play a decisive role in making laws for a country.

(iv) Parties form and run governments. Parties recruit leaders, train them and then make them ministers to run the government in the way they want.

(v) Those parties that lose in the elections play the role of opposition to the parties in power.

(vi) They voice different views and criticise government for its failures or wrong policies.

(vii) Parties shape public opinion by raising and highlighting issues.

(viii) Parties sometimes also launch movements for the resolution of problems faced by people.

(ix) Parties provide people access to government machinery and welfare schemes implemented by governments.

(x) Any other relevant point.

 

5. Describe three major challenges faced by the political parties in India.

(i) All over the world there is lack of internal democracy within parties- Parties do not keep membership registers, do not hold organisational meetings, and do not conduct internal elections regularly.

(ii) Most political parties do not practice open and transparent procedures for their functioning. In many parties, the top positions are always controlled by members of one family.

(iii) There is growing role of money and muscle power in parties, especially during elections. Since parties are focused only on winning elections, they tend to use short-cuts to win elections.

(iv) Very often parties do not seem to offer a meaningful choice to the voters.

(v) Any other relevant point.

6. Describe any three features of the multi-party system.

(i) Existence of many political parties.

(ii) Increased chances of a coalition government.

(iii) Provides checks and balances.

(iv) More choices for voters.

(v) Accommodates diverse opinions.

(vi) Inclusive policy making.

(vii) Enhances political stability.

(viii) Any other relevant point.

 

7. Explain the role of the opposition in democracy.

(i) The parties that lose elections forms the opposition.

(ii) They voice different views.

(iii) Criticize government for its failures.

(iv) They protest against wrong policies.

(v) Mobilise public opinion against the government.

(vi) Any other relevant point.

 

 

8. Explain the role of political parties in democracy.

(i) Parties contest elections.

(ii) Parties put forward different policies and programmes.

(iii) Parties play a decisive role in making laws for a country.

(iv) Parties form and run governments

(v) Those parties that lose the elections play the role of the opposition.

(vi) Parties shape public opinion.

(vii) Parties provide people access to government machinery and welfare schemes.

(viii) Any other relevant point.

 

9. Explain any three efforts done to e political parties in India.

(i) The anti-defection law has helped bring defection down.

(ii) The Supreme Court passed an order to reduce the influence of money and criminals.

(iii) Now, it is mandatory for every candidate who contests elections to file an AFFIDAVIT giving details of his property and criminal cases pending against him.

(iv) The new system has made a lot of information available to the public. But there is no system to check if the information given by the candidates is true.

(v)The Election Commission passed an order making it necessary for political parties to hold their organisational elections and file their income tax returns.

(vi) Any other relevant point.

10. How do political parties influence public opinion? Examine

(i) Parties shape public opinion through different sources..

(ii) They raise and highlight issues of public interests and nation’s development.

(iii) Parties have lakhs of members and activists spread all over the country to cater the interests of society

(iv) Many of the pressure groups are the extensions of political parties among different sections of society.

(v) Parties sometimes also launch movements for the resolution of problems faced by people. Often opinions in the society crystallise on the lines parties take.

(vi) Any other relevant point.

11. Examine any two features of Bi-Party system.

(i) In some countries, power usually changes between two main parties. Several other parties may exist, contest elections and win a few seats in the national legislatures.

(ii) But only the two main parties have a serious chance of winning majority of seats to form government. Such a party system is called two-party system.

(iii) The United States of America and the United Kingdom are examples of two partysystem.

(iv) Any other relevant point.

12. Explain any three efforts done to reform political parties in India.

(i) The anti-defection law has helped bring defection down.

(ii) The Supreme Court passed an order to reduce the influence of money and criminals. Now, it is mandatory for every candidate who contests elections to file an AFFIDAVIT giving details of his property and criminal cases pending against him.

(iv) The new system has made a lot of information available to the public. But there is no system to check if the information given by the candidates is true.

(v)The Election Commission passed an order making it necessary for political parties to hold their organisational elections and file their income tax returns.

(vi) Any other relevant point.

13. Analyze the need of Political Parties in the Democracy.

 i Political parties are the most visible institutions in a democracy. For most ordinary citizens, democracy is equal to political parties.

ii A political party is a group of people who contest election and hold power in the government.

 iii The rise of political parties is directly linked to the emergence of representative democracies. Large scale societies need representative democracy.

iv As societies became large and complex, they also needed some agency to gather different views on various issues and to present these to the government.

v They needed some way to bring various representatives together so that a responsible government could be formed.

vi They needed a mechanism to support or restrain the government, make policies, justify, or oppose them.

vii We can say that parties are a necessary condition for a democracy.

viii Any other relevant point

14. Explain the role of Regional parties in India.

(i) Many of the parties in India have been classified as State Parties by the Election commission of India. These are commonly referred to as regional parties.

(ii) Parties like the Aam Aadmi Party and some Communist Party have national level political organisation with units in several States.

(iii) Some of these parties like Biju Janata Dal, Sikkim Democratic Front and Mizo National Front are conscious about their State identity.

(iv) Over the last three decades, the number and strength of these parties has expanded. This made the Parliament of India politically more and more diverse.

(v) When no one national party is able to secure on its own a majority in Lok Sabha the national parties are compelled to form alliances with State parties.

(vi) Due to national level coalition of regional and national parties it has strengthened federalism and democracy in our country.

(vii) Any other relevant point

 

15. Explain the merits of Multi-Party System.

(i) If several parties compete for power and more than two parties have a reasonable chance of coming to power is called multi – party system.

(ii) Multi-party system accommodates the social and geographical diversity that is the reason India has adopted this system.

(iii) In this system many times the government is formed by various parties coming together in a coalition, representing various section of the society.

(iv) In multi-party system there is less chance of electoral dictatorship.

(v) Any other relevant point.

 

5. Outcomes of Democracy

16. Evaluate the outcomes of democracy in the economic sector of the country.

(i) Economic development depends on several factors: country’s population, size, global situation, cooperation from other countries, economic priorities adopted by the country, etc.

(ii) Equality being one of the basic principles in democracy it is expected from democracies to reduce economic inequalities.

(iii) Democracy encourages economic growth through reforms and policies.

(iv) Democracy promotes initiatives like Make in India and MGNREGA.

(v) The policies of globalization and liberalization adopted by democracies have encouraged international trade leading to progress.

(vi) It strengthens infrastructure projects.

(vii) It expands digital economy.

(viii) It supports easy loans, subsidies and enhances agricultural growth.

(ix) It focuses on renewable energy for sustainable development.

(x) Any other relevant point.

17. “That democratic system of government is considered good in which maximum number of citizens are made stakeholders in political power.” Explain the statement with suitable arguments.

(i) The democratic system of government is considered good because people are the source of all political power.

(ii) In a democracy people rule themselves through institutions of self-government.

(iii) Democracy ensures active participation, representation and decision-making opportunities for the people.

(iv) Democracy encourages public debates and opinions. These public opinions are used in policy making.

(v) In democracy, people can make the government accountable as the system gives enough scope for ensuring transparency.

(vi) It helps to reduce the possibility of conflicts between social groups.

(vii) Democratic governments are elected by the people. It gives legitimacy to the government. Thus, it is a good way to ensure the stability of political order. 

(viii) Any other relevant point.

 

18. Explain any five bases for assessing the outcomes of democracy.

The outcomes of democracy can be assessed on the following basis:

(i) Promotes equality among citizens.

(ii) Enhances the dignity of the individual.

(iii) Improves the quality of decision making.

(iv) Provides methods to resolve conflicts.

(v) Allows room to correct mistakes.

(vi) Accommodates social diversity.

(vii) Produces a government that is accountable to the citizens.

(viii) Responsive to the needs and expectations of the citizens.

(ix) Based on ideas of deliberation and negotiations. 

(x) Any other relevant point.

Any five points to be explained.

19. Explain any five values of democracy.

(i) Equal rights and opportunities.

(ii) Freedom to express oneself.

(iii) Choose their leaders and participate in the political process.

(iv) Based on respect, dignity and freedom.

(v) In a democracy, citizens have the right and means to examine the process of decision making.

(vi) Accommodates social diversity.

(vii) Produces a government that is accountable to the citizens.

(viii) Responsive to the needs and expectations of the citizens.

(ix) Based on ideas of deliberation and negotiations. 

(x) Any other relevant point.

 

20. ‘Democracy stands much superior to any other form of government in promoting dignity and freedom of the individual’. Support the statement with suitable arguments.

i Every individual wants respect from fellow beings.

ii The passion for respect and freedom are the basis of democracy.

iii Respect to and equal treatments of women are necessary ingredients of a democratic society.

iv Democracy in India has strengthened the claims of the disadvantaged and discriminated for equal status and equal opportunity.

v Democracy values rights.

vi It enhances the dignity of the individual.

vii Democracy has the ability to handle social differences, divisions and conflicts.

viii Any other relevant point.

21. “Analyse the conditions under which democracies promote dignity and freedom of citizens.

(i) Every individual wants to receive respect from fellow beings.

(ii) The passion for respect and freedom are the basis of democracy.

(iii) Democracies throughout the world have recognised dignity and freedom in principle.

(iv) Dignity and freedom of the citizens have been achieved in various degrees.

(v) Equal treatment of women is necessary ingredients of a democratic society.

(vi) Democracy has strengthened the claims of disadvantaged.

(vii) People have developed awareness and the ability to look critically

(viii) Any other relevant point

22. “Democracy is a better form of government than any other alternative”. Analyse the statement.

(i) Democracy promotes equality among citizens.

(ii) Enhances the dignity of the individual.

(iii) Improves the quality of decision-making

(iv) Provides a method to resolve conflicts.

(v) Allows room to correct mistakes.

(vi) Democracies lead to peaceful and harmonious life among citizens

(vii) Democracy has strengthened the claims of disadvantaged.

(viii) Any other relevant points.

23. ‘Democracy is best suited to produce its own outcomes.’ Explain.

(i) Promotes equality and coexistence among citizens.

(ii) Enhances the dignity of the individual with majority – minority coordination.

(iii) Improves the quality of decision-making in spite of many economic, political and social problems.

(iv) Provides a method to resolve conflicts. Allows room to correct mistakes.

 (v) Believes in discussion, negotiation and shows accountability through transparency.

(vi) It generates its own support which cannot be ignored.

(vii) Any other relevant point.

24. How does democracy promote political and social values?

(i) Accommodation of social diversities.

(ii) Cooperation between minority and majority.

(iii) Ability to handle social differences, divisions and conflicts.

(iv) Promotes equality among citizens.

(v) Enhances the dignity of the individual.

(vi) It is responsive to the needs of the people.

(vii)Improves the quality of decision-making.

(viii) It is accountable and whenever they are not, people have the right to select any other governance.

(ix) Democratic govt follows procedures and are accountable to the people.

(x)Provides a method to resolve conflicts.

(xi) Any other relevant point.

25. ‘How is Democracy a better form of government in comparison to dictatorship? Explain.

 (i) Non-democratic rulers do not have to bother about deliberation or worry about majorities and public opinion. It may take decisions that are not accepted by the people and may therefore face problems.

(ii) Unlike any alternative government,the democratic government will take more time to follow procedures before arriving at decisionhowever it ensures that decision-making will be based on norms and procedures.

(iii) Transparency factor is often missing from a non-democratic government.

 (iv) It is right to expect democracy to produce a government that follows procedures and is accountable to the people unlike dictatorship.

(v) Government develops mechanisms for citizens to hold the government accountable and mechanisms to take part in decision-making whenever they think fit.

(vi) Respect to and equal treatment of women is necessary ingredients of a democratic society.

(vii) Non-democratic regimes often turn a blind eye to or suppress internal social differences. Ability to handle social differences, divisions and conflicts is thus a definite plus point of democratic regimes.

(viii) Any other relevant point.

26. ‘Why is Democratic government considered as legitimate government.’ Explain.

(i) People wish to be ruled by representatives elected by them. They also believe that democracy is suitable for their country.

(ii) It is responsive to the needs of the people

(iii) It is accountable and whenever they are not, people have the right to select any other governance.

(iv) It is transparent as whatever policies they are forming, the knowledge of the same is of  there with the people also.

 (v) They accommodate differences and work for the economic development. (vi) Democratic govt follows procedures and are accountable to the people.

(vii) Democracy is based on the idea of deliberation and negotiation

(viii) Regular free and fair elections are the regular feature of democracy.

(ix) Any other relevant point

27. Democracy can address all socio-economic and political problems.” Support the statement with arguments.

 i. Democracy is an important form of government that allows for the participation of citizens in decision-making

ii. Democracy provides a framework for political stability, accountability, and transparency.

iii. Democracy is based on the idea of deliberation and discussion

iv. Regular, free, and fair elections are the feature of democracy

v. Open public debate on major policies and legislations

vi. Democracy gives it citizens’ the Right to Information about the government and its functioning.

vii. Democracies are based on political equality

viii. All individuals have equal weight in electing representatives.

ix. Governments function to represent the general view of minority and majority

x. Democracy has strengthened the claims of the disadvantaged

xi. Democracy tries to accommodates social difference

xii. Democracy tries to deal with societal problems such as poverty, inequality, corruption, and discrimination

 xiii. Any other relevant point

28. Explain the role of democracy in establishing harmony among social diversities.

 (i) Democracies lead to peaceful and harmonious life among citizens.

(ii) Democracies develop a procedure to conduct their competition.

(iii) It reduces the possibility of tensions becoming explosive or violent.

(iv) No society can fully and permanently resolve conflicts among different social groups.

(v) Citizens can learn to respect the differences and also evolve mechanisms to dialogue.

(vi) Democracy has the ability to handle social differences, divisions and conflicts.

(vii) The majority needs to work with minority so that governments function to represent the general view.

(viii) Elections ensure the formation of majority government representing diversity and not a majoritarian one.

(ix) Any other relevant point.

29. “There is overwhelming support for the idea of democracy all over the world.” Support the statement with examples.

(i) Democracy gives freedom to People to select their government without any domination or pressure unlike other form of govt.

(ii)Democracies have had greater success in setting up regular and free elections and in setting up conditions for open public debate.

(iii)Democratic government develops mechanisms for citizens to hold government accountable and mechanisms for citizens to take part in decision-making. Promotes equality among citizens.

(iv)Democratic government enhances the dignity of the individual.

(v)Democratic government improves the quality of decision making.

(vi)Democratic government provides a method to resolve conflicts.

(vii) Democracy provides a framework for political stability, accountability, and transparency.

(viii)Democracy is based on the idea of deliberation and discussion

(ix)Regular, free, and fair elections are the feature of democracy

(vii)Any other relevant point.

30. How is democracy a responsible and legitimate government? Explain.

(i) Democracy ensures that people will have the right to choose their rulers and people will have control over the rulers.

(ii) People wish to be ruled by representatives elected by them. In a democracy, people are able to participate in decision making, that affects them all.

(iii) The leaders work in accordance to the needs and desires of the people, acting responsibly.

(iv) It produces a government that is accountable and responsive to the needs and expectations of the citizens.

(v) Democratic government is a transparent government.

(vi) A democratic government is people’s own government.

(vii) Democracy generates its own support.

(viii) Democracy is the most suitable form of government.

(ix) There is an overwhelming support for the idea of democracy all over the world.

 

31. Explain the role of democracy in establishing the dignity of citizens.

(i) Democracy stands much superior to any other form of government in promoting dignity and freedom of the individual.

(ii) Every individual wants to receive respect from fellow beings.

(iii) Often conflicts arise among individuals because some feel that they are not treated with due respect.

(iv) Democracies throughout the world have recognised this and provide mechanism to resolve it.

(v) This has been achieved in various degrees in various democracies.

(vi) Democracy in India has strengthened the claims of the disadvantaged and discriminated caste/gender for equal status and equal opportunities.

(vii) Any other relevant point.

32. Evaluate the outcomes of democracy in the social sector of the country.

(i) Democracies lead to peaceful and harmonious life among citizens.

(ii) It negotiates social differences.

(iii) It reduces the possibility of tensions.

(iv) It produces a method to resolve conflicts.

 (v) It has the ability to handle social differences, divisions and conflicts.

(vi) The majority needs to work with minority so that governments function to represent the general view.

(vii) Elections ensure the formation of majority government representing diversity and not a majoritarian one.

(viii) Any other relevant point.

33. “Democratic governance is responsive to the expectations of citizens.” Justify the statement with suitable arguments.

(i) Citizens in a democracy elect their leaders who form the government.

(ii) Leaders are accountable to the citizens.

(iii) Governments are bound to respond to the demands and expectations of the citizens.

(iv) Decision making by the government takes place through deliberation and negotiation.

(v) Citizens have right to get information about the government and its functioning.

(vi) Decision making is based on norms and procedures.

(vii) It is the people’s own government, and the government is answerable to the people.

(viii) Any other relevant point. Any five arguments to be justified.

 

34. “Democracy accommodates social diversity better than dictatorship.” Justify the statement with suitable arguments.

(i) Democracy accommodates social divisions in a better way as opposed to dictatorships.

(ii) Democracies develop procedures to resolve conflict. Dictatorships supress conflicts.

(iii) Democracies develop systems to prevent tensions from becoming explosive or violent.Dictaorships impose decisions which may lead to violence.

(iv) Democracies evolve mechanisms to negotiate differences. Dictatorships suppress differences.

(v) Democracies work both with minority and majority. Dictatorships tend to work with the majority and dominate the minority.

(vi) Democracies support a majority government and not majoritarianism. Dictatorships follow majoritarianism.

(vii) Any other relevant point.

35. “Democracy elevates humans from the status of subject to citizen.” Justify the statement with suitable arguments.

(i)Democratic principles allow people to come up with more expectations.

(ii) Freedom of expression to show dissatisfaction with democracy indicates the transformation of people from the status of a subject into that of a citizen.

(iii) Democracy promotes equality among citizens.

(iv) It enhances dignity of citizens.

(v) It improves the quality of decision making.

(vi) It provides methods to resolve conflicts.

(vii) It allows room to correct mistakes.

(viii) Complaints by people about outcomes of democracy is itself a testimony to its success.

(ix) Any other relevant point.

36. “Democracy and development go together.” Justify the statement with suitable arguments.

(i) Democracies encourage power sharing, thus giving every citizen a voice in governance.

(ii) The policy of decentralization adopted by democracies ensure development of the whole nation.

(iii) Democracies stand for dignity and freedom of the citizens which encourages them to contribute to the growth of the nation.

(iv) Accommodation of diversity ensures harmony in the nation leading to development.

(v) Equality being one of the basic principles of democracies results in economic growth.

(vi) The policies of globalization and liberalization adopted by democracies have encouraged international trade leading to progress.

(vii) Any other relevant point.

37. How does democracy establish an accountable, responsible and legitimate governance? Explain. (i) People have the right to choose their rulers and people will have control over the rulers.

(ii) Citizens should be able to participate in decision-making so that the government is accountable to the citizens.

(iii) Decision-making will be based on norms and procedures.

(iv) Democratic government is legitimate government. It may be slow, less efficient, not always very responsive or clean but a democratic government is people’s own government.

(v) Any other relevant point.

38. How is democracy better than other types of government? Analyse.

(i) Democratic government promotes equality among citizens;

(ii) It enhances the dignity of the individual;

(iii) It improves the quality of decision-making;

(iv) It provides a method to resolve conflicts;

(v) It allows room to correct mistakes.

(vi) It is accountable, responsive and legitimate form of government

(vii) It accommodates social diversity.

(viii) Any other relevant point.

 

39.  Analyse the role of democracy in reducing inequality and poverty.

(i) Democracy strengthens the claims of the disadvantaged and discriminated groups for equal status and equal opportunity.

(ii) Democracies are based on political equality. All individuals have equal weight in electing representatives.

(iii) Democracy discourages discrimination on the basis of economic status, language, religion etc.

(iv) Democratic governments make special provisions like reservation in educational institutions and government jobs for socially and economically weaker sections.

(v) Democratic government put forward schemes to eradicate poverty.

(vi) Democratic governments initiate employment generation programmes.

(vii) Economic inequalities are found in democratic countries. (viii) Any other relevant point.

40. Why is power sharing essential for the success of democracy? Explain.

(i) Power sharing helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups.

(ii) It is a good way to ensure the stability of political order.

(iii) Imposing the will of majority community over others may look like an attractive option in the short run, but in the long run it undermines the unity of the nation.

(iv) It is the very spirit of democracy.

(v) A democratic rule involves sharing power with those affected by its exercise, and who have to live with its effects.

(vi) People have a right to be consulted on how they are to be governed.

(vii) A legitimate government is one where citizens, through participation, acquire a stake in the system.

(viii) Any other relevant point.

41. “Democratic system is better than other systems.” Explain the statement with appropriate arguments.

(i) It promotes equality among citizens.

(ii) It enhances the dignity of the individual.

(iii)  It improves the quality of decision-making.

(iv) It provides a method to resolve conflicts.

(v)  It allows room to correct mistakes.

(vi) It is an accountable form of government.

(vii) It is based on the idea of deliberation and negotiations.

(viii) It is responsive form of government.

(ix) It is a legitimate government.

(x) It accommodates social diversity

(xi) Any other relevant point.

42. “One distinct feature of democracy is that its scrutiny never ends.” Explain the statement with appropriate arguments.

(i) As democracy passes one test, it produces another test.

(ii)  As people get some benefits of democracy they ask for more and

want to make democracy better.

(iii) In a democratic setup people  always come up with more expectations. 

(iv) It could be considered as a testimony to the success of democracy.

(v) It shows that people have developed awareness and the ability to expect and to look critically at power holders and the high and the mighty. 

(vi)  A public expression of dissatisfaction with democracy shows the success of the democratic project.

(vii) It transforms people from the status of a subject into that of a citizen. 

(viii) Any other relevant point.