10th - Social Studies

Ch 1 Power sharing
Q 1 MCQ
Choose the correct option: Power shared among different organs of government is called-
(a) Community Government (b) Aristocratic Government
(c) Separation of Powers (d) Coalition Government
Q 2 MCQ
Choose the correct option: Power shared by two or more political parties is called-
(a) Coalition Government (b) Community Government
(c) Federal Government (d) Authoritarian Government
Q 3 MCQ
Choose the correct option: Power shared by different social groups-
(a) Separation of powers (b) Federal Government
(c) Coalition Government (d) Community Government
Q 4 MCQ
Choose the correct option: "Giving power to Panchayats is also a way to reduce corruption
and increase administrative efficiency." This is an example of -
(a) Prudential Reason (b) Moral Reason
(c) Majoritarianism (d) Tyranny
Q 5 MCQ
Choose the correct option: Which of these arguments are in favour of power sharing?
(a) It reduces conflict among different communities. (b) It accommodates diversities.
(c) It decreases the possibility of arbitrariness. (d) All of the above
Q 6 MCQ
In Belgium, the Dutch-speaking majority people tried to impose their domination on the
minority French-speaking community.
(a) True (b) False
Q 7 MCQ
In Sri Lanka, the policies of the government sought to ensure the dominance of the Sinhala-
speaking majority.
(a) True (b) False
Q 8 MCQ
Power sharing is good for democracy.
(a) True (b) False
Q 9 MCQ
Power sharing helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups.
(a) True (b) False
Q 10 MCQ
The Tamils in Sri Lanka demanded a federal arrangement of power sharing to protect their
culture, language and equality of opportunity in education and jobs.
(a) True (b) False
Q 11 MCQ
In Belgium, the percentage of French community is:
(a) 54% (b) 40%
(c) 30% (d) 20%
Q 12 MCQ
Power struggle demanding separate Eelam was launched by the:
(a) Sinhalese (b) Buddhists
(c) Tamilians (d) Muslims
Q 13 MCQ
Belgium shares its border with:
(a) France (b) Germany
(c) Luxembourg (d) All of the above
Q 14 MCQ
An act of recognising Sinhala as the official language was passed in:
(a) 1942 (b) 1956
(c) 1954 (d) 1948
Q 15 MCQ
Power sharing is a good way to ensure the stability of:
(a) Population (b) Political order
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Social groups
Q 16 MCQ
Power shared among governments at different level is also called:
(a) Horizontal distribution (b) Vertical distribution
(c) Slant distribution (d) Straight distribution
Q 17 MCQ
Belgium has worked on the principles of:
(a) Majoritarianism (b) Accommodation
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Dictatorship
Q 18 MCQ
Majoritarianism constitution was adopted by:
(a) Belgium (b) India
(c) Sri Lanka (d) Pakistan
Q 19 MCQ
The capital city of Belgium is:
(a) Dutch (b) France
(c) Brussels (d) Italy
Q 20 MCQ
In Belgium, three communities are living ___ , ___ and ___ speaking.
(a) French, Spanish, Italian. (b) French, Dutch, German.
(c) Dutch, Italian, Greek. (d) Irish, Polish, Danish.
Q 21 MCQ
Both ___ and ___ speaking people share power on an equal basis at ___ in Belgium.
(a) Greek, Spanish, State Government. (b) Italian, German, Community Government.
(c) Dutch, French, Central Government. (d) Polish, Spanish, District Government.
Q 22 MCQ
In Belgium, lastly the power is shared between ___, ___, and ___.
(a) Central, State and Community government.
(b) District, Central, Community Government.
(c) Province, District and Central Government.
(d) Federal, District and Provincial Government.
Q 23 MCQ
___ has started power struggle demanding separate Eelam in Sri Lanka.
(a) Sinhalese political organisation. (b) Tamilians political organisation.
(c) Muslims political organisation. (d) Buddhists political organisation.
Q 24 MCQ
___ was started in Sri Lanka due to distrust between the two communities.
(a) World war (b) Border war
(c) Cold war (d) Civil war
Q 25 MCQ
Belgium has French people in majority whereas others struggle for their rights.
(a) True (b) False
Q 26 MCQ
Sri Lanka is facing the problems because of supporting the Tamilians in the state.
(a) True (b) False
Q 27 MCQ
Belgium and Sri Lanka are two countries, where people struggled for power sharing:
(a) True (b) False
Q 28 MCQ
The feeling of accommodation has led to the problem in Sri Lanka.
(a) True (b) False
Q 29 MCQ
Power sharing is desirable and reduces possibilities of conflict within the country.
(a) True (b) False
Q 30 MCQ
Power sharing increases the possibility of conflict between social groups.
(a) True (b) False
Q 31 MCQ
Choose the correct statement.
(a) The democratically elected government of Srilanka adopted a series of Majoritarian
measures to establish Tamil supremacy.
(b) The democratically elected government of Srilanka adopted a series of majoritarian
measures to establish Sinhala supremacy.
(c) The democratically elected government of Srilanka adopted a series of majoritarian
measures to establish Buddhist supremacy.
Q 32 MCQ
Choose the correct statement.
(a) Brussels has a separate government in which both the communities have equal
representation.
(b) Brussels has a separate government in which both the communities have unequal
representation.
(c) Brussels has a separate government in which both the communities have no
representation.
Q 33 MCQ
Choose the correct statement.
(a) Power-sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way political parties, pressure groups
and movements control or influence those not in power.
(b) Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way political parties, pressure groups
and movements fail to influence those in power.
(c) Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way political parties, pressure groups
and movements control or influence those in power.
Q 34 MCQ
Choose the correct statement.
(a) In 1956, an act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language, thus
disregarding Tamil.
(b) In 1956, an act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language, thus
disregarding Muslims.
(c) In 1958, an act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language, thus
disregarding Tamil.
Q 35 MCQ
Assertion (A) : Sri Lanka emerged as an independent country in 1946. Reason (R) : The
leaders of the Sinhala community sought to secure dominance over the government by virtue
of their majority.
(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) A is false but R is true.
Q 36 MCQ
Assertion (A) : In Belgium, the Dutch community could take advantage of it's numeric
majority and could impose its will on the entire country.
Reason (R) : In Sri Lanka, the Sinhala community enjoyed an even bigger majority and could
impose its will on the entire country.
(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) A is false but R is true.
Q 37 MCQ
Assertion (A) : Sri Lanka has a diverse population.
Reason (R) : The major social groups are Sinhala speakers (74 %) and Tamil speakers(18%).
(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) A is false but R is true.
Q 38 MCQ
Assertion (A) : Power can be shared among governments at different levels - a general
government for the entire country and government at the provincial or regional level.
Reason (R) : Such a general government for the entire country is known as federal
government.
(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) A is false but R is true.
Q 39 MCQ
Assertion (A) : Although judges are appointed by the executive, they can check the
functioning of executive or laws made by the legislature.
Reason (R) : This arrangement is called a system of chess and balances.
(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) A is false but R is true.
Q 40 MCQ
With which countries does Belgium shares borders?
(a) Belgium shares borders with Netherlands, Italy, Greece and Germany.
(b) Belgium shares borders with Netherlands, France, Germany and Luxembourg.
(c) Belgium shares borders with Spain, Rome, Italy and Netherlands.
(d) Belgium shares borders with France, Turkey, Greece and Italy.
Q 41 MCQ
What is the ethnic composition of Belgium?
(a) 59% of the population lives in the Flemish region speak Dutch language, 40% live in
Wallonia and speak French and the remaining 1% speak German.
(b) 59% of population lives in the Flemish region speak Dutch language, 40% live in
Wallonia and speak German and the remaining 1% speak Polish.
(c) 59% of population lives in the Flemish region speak Italian language, 40% live in
Wallonia and speak French and the remaining 1% speak Greek.
(d) 59% of population lives in Flemish region speak Polish language, 40% live in Wallonia
and speak French and the remaining 1% speak Turkish.
Q 42 MCQ
What is the ethnic composition of the capital city of Brussels?
(a) 80% German and 20% Italian speaking communities.
(b) 80% Italian and 20% German speaking communities.
(c) 80% French and 20% Dutch speaking communities.
(d) 80% Dutch and 20% French speaking communities.
Q 43 MCQ
What is the ethnic composition of Sri Lanka?
(a) The Sinhala speaker are 74% and Tamil speakers are 18% and among Tamils there are
two sub groups- Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils.
(b) The Sinhala speaker are 50% and Tamil speakers are 50% and among Tamils there are
two sub groups- Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils.
(c) The Sinhala speaker are 70% and Tamil speakers are 30% and among Tamils there are
two sub groups- Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils.
(d) The Sinhala speaker are 30% and Tamil speakers are 70% and among Tamils there are
two sub groups- Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils.
Q 44 MCQ
Why was the tension more acute in Brussels between the two communities?
(a) There was more tension in Brussels because French speaking people constituted a
majority in the country, but minority in the capital.
(b) There was more tension in Brussels because Dutch speaking people constituted a majority
in the country, but minority in the capital.
(c) There was more tension in Brussels because German speaking people constituted a
majority in the country, but minority in the capital.
(d) There was more tension in Brussels because Italian speaking people constituted a majority
in the country, but minority in the capital.
Q 45 MCQ
Which religions are followed by Sri Lankans?
(a) Sikhs, Hindus, Jews and Muslims. (b) Christians, Muslims, Jains and Sikhs.
(c) Hindus, Judaism, Christianity and Taoism.
(d) Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and Christians.
Q 46 MCQ
How did Sinhalese became the official language of Sri Lanka?
(a) In 1956, an act was passed to recognise ’Sinhala’ as the only official language thus
disregarding Tamil.
(b) In 1958, an act was passed to recognise ’Sinhala’ as the only official language thus
disregarding Tamil.
(c) In 1946, an act was passed to recognise ’Sinhala’ as the only official language thus
disregarding Tamil.
(d) In 1960, an act was passed to recognise ’Sinhala’ as the only official language thus
disregarding Tamil.
Q 47 MCQ
Which religion is adopted as the state religion of Sri Lanka?
(a) A new constitution stipulated that the state shall protect and foster Hinduism.
(b) A new constitution stipulated that the state shall protect and foster Islam.
(c) A new constitution stipulated that the state shall protect and foster Buddhism.
(d) A new constitution stipulated that the state shall protect and foster Sikhism.
Q 48 MCQ
Why did the Sri Lankan Tamils feel alienated from Sinhalese?
(a) They felt like the government policies gave them too much political rights and ample of
job and equal opportunities.
(b) They felt that the constitution and government policies denied them even political
rights, discriminated against them even in getting jobs and opportunities and ignored their
interests.
(c) They felt that the government denied them of political rights while giving them equal
rights and opportunities.
(d) They felt that the government gave them political rights but then denied them of equal
rights and opportunities.
Q 49 MCQ
What were the demands of political organisation of Tamils in Sri Lanka?
(a) An independent Tamil Eelam (state) in the northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka.
(b) They demanded a new country for Tamils only.
(c) They demanded to get equal rights and opportunities for the Tamils.
(d) They demanded that Tamils should rule the country.
Q 50 MCQ
What was the division of power between the central and state governments of Belgium?
(a) Less powers of the central Government have been given to the state government of the
two regions of the country. The state governments are subordinate to the Federal
Governments.
(b) Many powers of the central Government have not been given to the state government of
the two regions of the country. The state governments are not subordinate to the Central
Governments.
(c) Many powers of the central Government have been given to the state government of the
two regions of the country. The state governments are not subordinate to the Central
Governments.
(d) No powers of the central government have been given to the state Government of the two
regions of the country. The state governments are not subordinate to the Central
Governments.
Q 51 MCQ
What is the similarity between Belgium and Sri Lanka?
(a) They are both located in the same continent. (b) They both are democracies.
(c) They both are dictatorships. (d) They both faced discrimination.
Q 52 MCQ
How was Sri Lanka different from Belgium in making the decision of their communities?
(a) Sri Lanka showed us that if a majority community wants to force its dominance over
others and refuses to share power, it can undermine the unity of the country.
(b) Sri Lanka showed us that if a minority community wants to force its dominance over
others and refuses to share power, it can determine the unity of the country.
(c) Sri Lanka showed us that if a dictator wants to force its dominance over others and refuses
to share power, it can determine the unity of the country.
(d) Sri Lanka showed us that if a majority community doesn't want to force its dominance
over others and wants to share power, it can strengthens the unity of the country.
Q 53 MCQ
What is the basic principle of democracy?
(a) Political party are the source of all power. Political parties will rule the people.
(b) People are the sources of all political power. People rule themselves through institutions
of selfgovernance.
(c) Majority social groups are the sources of all political power. They rule themselves
through institutions of self-governance.
(d) Minority social groups are the sources of all political power. They rule themselves
through institutions of self-governance.
Q 54 MCQ
What is the horizontal distribution of power?
(a) The power is only shared among two organs of the government.
(b) No power is shared among the different organs of the government.
(c) The power is shared among different organs of government such as legislative, executive
and judiciary.
(d) The power is shared only among the judicial organ of the government.
Q 55 MCQ
Different arguments are usually put forth in favour of and against power sharing. Identify
those which are in favour of power sharing and select the answer using the codes given
below. Power sharing:
A. reduces conflict among different communities
B. decreases the possibility of arbitrariness
C. delays decision making process
D. accommodates diversities
E. increases instability and divisiveness
F. promotes people’s participation in government
G. undermines the unity of a country
(a) (a) A B D F (b) (b) A C E F
(c) (c) A B D G (d) (d) B C D G
Q 56 MCQ
In Sri Lanka, the policies of the government sought to ensure the dominance of the Sinhala-
speaking people.
(a) True (b) False
Q 57 MCQ
The transformation of Belgium from unitary government to a federal one prevented a
possible division of the country on linguistic basis.
(a) True (b) False
Q 58 MCQ
Read the following statements and whether true or false.
A.Power sharing is good for democracy.
B. It helps to reduce possibility of conflict between social groups.
(a) A is true but B is false. (b) A is false B is true.
(c) Both A and B are False. (d) Both A and B are True.
Q 59 MCQ
Choose and write the correct answer for each of the following : Majoritarianism gave Tamils
the feeling of ________________.
(a) Competition (b) Accomodation
(c) Alienation (d) Unity
Q 60 MCQ
Choose and write the correct answer for each of the following : Community government has
the power regarding ________________.
(a) Cultural issues (b) Language issues
(c) Educational issues (d) All of these
Q 61 MCQ
Choose and write the correct answer for each of the following : In democracy, power is in the
hands of _______________.
(a) Constitution (b) Government
(c) Political parties (d) People
Q 62 MCQ
True or False : The Constitution of Sri Lanka had clearly laid down powers for different
levels of government.
(a) True (b) False
Q 63 MCQ
True or False: Power sharing accommodates diversities.
(a) True (b) False
Q 64 MCQ
True or False : Community government is a good example of power sharing.
(a) True (b) False
Q 65 MCQ
True or False : LTTE was formed by Sinhalese in Sri Lanka.
(a) True (b) False
Q 66 MCQ
Pick the correct option : 3rd tier of the Indian Government.
(a) Panchayati Raj Government (b) State Government
(c) Union Government
Q 67 MCQ
Pick the correct option : LTTE belongs to which of the following countries:
(a) India (b) Pakistan
(c) Sri Lanka
Q 68 MCQ
Pick the correct option : Community government is present in which of the following
countries:
(a) Belgium (b) Italy
(c) France
Q 69 MCQ
Pick the correct option : Legal authority over an area.
(a) Accomodation (b) Jurisdiction
(c) Majoritarianism
Q 70 MCQ
Pick the correct option :1% of Belgium Speak this Language.
(a) Dutch (b) French
(c) German
Q 71 MCQ
Pick the correct option : Subjects like foreign affairs.
(a) Union List (b) Country List
(c) State List
Q 72 MCQ
Choose the correct statement in reference to Belgium.'s Constitution:
(a) According to the constitution, the number of Dutch and French Speaking ministers shall
be unequal.
(b) According to the constitution, there shall be no Dutch Speaking ministers.
(c) According to the constitution, the number of Dutch and French Speaking ministers shall
be equal.
Q 73 MCQ
Choose the correct statement.
(a) In Sri Lanka, there are two major communities - Sinhalas (74%) and Tamils (18%).
(b) In Sri Lanka, there are two major communities - Sinhalas (18%) and Tamils (74%).
(c) In Sri Lanka, there are two major communities - Sinhalas (50%) and Tamils (50%).
Q 74 MCQ
Read the statement and choose the correct option :
Assertion (A) : Power sharing is the spirit of democracy.
(R) Reason : A democratic rule involves sharing of power with those affected by its exercise
and those who have to live with its effects.
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation to A.
(b) A is true but R is False .
(c) A is false but R is true.
(d) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation to A.
Q 75 MCQ
Choose the correct option:
Which language was recognised as the only official language of Sri Lanka in 1956?
(a) Sinhala (b) Hindi
(c) Urdu (d) Tamil
Q 76 MCQ
Choose the correct option:
Which language is spoken by majority of Sri Lankans?
(a) Urdu (b) Sinhala
(c) Hindi (d) Tamil
Q 77 MCQ
Choose the correct option:
What measure was adopted by the democratically elected government of Sri Lanka to
establish Sinhala supremacy?
(a) Constitutional Reforms (b) Monarchy Rule
(c) Majoritarian measure (d) Community Government
Q 78 MCQ
Choose the correct option:
When was Sinhala recognised as the official language of Sri Lanka?
(a) In 1955 (b) In 1956
(c) In 1958 (d) In 1959

Q 79 MCQ
Choose the correct option:
What does the system of 'checks and balances' ensure in power sharing?
(a) It ensures a balanced economy. (b) It does not allow any discrimination.
(c) It provides unlimited power to the government.
(d) It ensures that none of the organs of the government can exercise unlimited power.
Q 80 MCQ
Choose the correct option:
Which of the following is a characteristic of power sharing?
(a) It gives people the right to be consulted.
(b) It provides power to one leg of the government.
(c) It increases conflicts between different political parties.
(d) It creates disparity.
Q 81 MCQ
Choose the correct option:
What is the prudential reason behind power sharing?
(a) It gives absolute power to the government. (b) It gives absolute power to the citizens
(c) It reduces the possibility of conflict between social groups.
(d) It ensures foreign investments.
Q 82 MCQ
Choose the correct option:
Why is power sharing good for democracies?
(a) It gives absolute power to the government. (b) It gives absolute power to the citizens
(c) It reduces the possibility of conflict between social groups.
(d) It ensures foreign investments.
Q 83 MCQ
Sri Lanka emerged as an independent country in 1948. The leaders of Sinhala community
sought to secure dominance over government by virtue of their majority. As a result, the
democratically elected government adopted a series of MAJORITARIAN measures to
establish Sinhala supremacy. This is an example of:
(a) Majoritarianism in Sri Lanka. (b) Sinhala Supremacy.
(c) Sri Lanka an independent country Elected government in Sri Lanka.
(d) Discrimination in Sri Lanka.
Q 84 MCQ
Apart from the Central and State government there is a third kind of government. This
government is elected by people belonging to one language community. Which type of
government is this?
(a) Central government (b) State government
(c) Community government (d) Belgian government.
Q 85 MCQ
Choose the correct option:
What is the state religion of Sri Lanka?
(a) Jainism (b) Buddhism
(c) Judaism (d) Hinduism
Q 86 MCQ
Choose the correct option:
Which of the following ethnic groups are related to Belgium?
(a) Dutch, Germans, French. (b) German, Mexican, Nigerian.
(c) British, French, Irish. (d) French, Polish, German.
Q 87 MCQ
Choose the correct option:
How many times was the Belgian Constitution amended between 1970 and 1993?
(a) 4 times (b) 6 times
(c) 3 times (d) 7 times
Q 88 MCQ
Choose the incorrect option from the following statements.
(a) Belgium is a big country in North America.
(b) It has borders with France, Germany, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.
(c) It has a population of a little over one crore.
(d) The ethnic composition of this country is very complex.
Q 89 MCQ
Choose the incorrect option in reference to seperation of powers:
(a) Power is shared among different organs of the government.
(b) Power is shared among the Legislature, Judiciary and Executive.
(c) We call this as vertical distribution of powers.
(d) Because it allows different organs of government placed at same level to exercise
different powers.
Q 90 MCQ
Complete the sentence:
Belgium has borders with the ______, Germany and France.
(a) United States (b) Netherlands
(c) Great Britain (d) Saudi Arabia
Q 91 MCQ
Complete the sentence:
In Sri Lanka, _______ community tried to force its dominance on others.
(a) Minority (b) Majority
(c) Tribal (d) Local
Q 92 MCQ
Complete the sentence:
_______ and ______ are two major ethnic groups in Sri Lanka.
(a) Sinhalas, Tamils (b) Sinhala, Malayalis
(c) Sinhala, Assamese (d) Tamils, Malays
Q 93 MCQ
Complete the sentence:
In a democracy, people rule themselves through the institution of _________.
(a) Inter-governance (b) Monarchical rule
(c) Self-governance (d) Military rule
Q 94 MCQ
Community Government refers to which type of power sharing:
(a) Power is shared among Governments at different levels.
(b) Power is shared by two or more political parties.
(c) Power is shared by different social groups. (d) Powered is shared by citizens of acountry.
Q 95 MCQ
Coalition government refers to which type of power sharing::
(a) Power is shared by two or more political parties
(b) Power is shared by two or more countries.
(c) Power is concentrated in the hands of a majority party.
(d) Power is shared by six or more political parties.
Q 96 MCQ
Percent of Sinhala speakers in Srilanka:
(a) 80 percent (b) 74 percent
(c) 20 percent (d) 18 percent
Q 97 MCQ
Percent of Tamil speakers in Srilanka:
(a) 80 percent (b) 82 percent
(c) 21 percent (d) 18 percent
Q 98 MCQ
Percent of French speakers in Brussels:
(a) 80 percent (b) 83 percent
(c) 22 per cent (d) 20 percent
Q 99 MCQ
Percent of Dutch speakers in Brussels:
(a) 75 percent (b) 80 percent
(c) 20 percent (d) 18 percent
Q 100 MCQ
Assertion(A): Power sharing is good for democracy.
Reason(R): It helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, and R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is correct but R is incorrect. ( d) A is incorrect but R is correct.
Q 101 MCQ
Assertion(A): The Belgian leaders recognised the existence of regional differences and
cultural diversities.
Reason(R): Between 1970 and 1993 they amended their constitution four times so as to work
out an arrangement that would enable everyone to live together within the same country.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, and R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is correct but R is incorrect. ( d) A is incorrect but R is correct.
Q 102 MCQ
Choose the correct statement.
(a) Belgium is a small country in Europe and share borders with France, Italy, Germany and
Luxembourg.
(b) Belgium is a large country in Europe and share borders with France, Italy, Germany and
Luxembourg.
(c) Belgium is a small country in Europe and share borders with France, The Netherlands,
Germany and Luxembourg.
Q 103 MCQ
Choose the correct statement in reference to Belgium's Constitution after 1993:
(a) The State Governments are not subordinate to the Central Government.
(b) The State Governments are subordinate to the Central Government.
(c) The State Governments are subordinate to the Community Government.
Q 104 MCQ
Choose the correct statement.
(a) Sri Lanka emerged as an independent country in 1966.
(b) Sri Lanka emerged as an independent country in 1948.
(c) Sri Lanka emerged as an independent country in 1988.
Q 105 MCQ
Choose the correct option:
How did the feeling of alienation develop among the Sri Lankan Tamils?
(a) Tamil applicants were preferred in university positions and government jobs.
(b) Sinhala applicants were preferred in university positions and government jobs.
(c) The Tamils were not allowed to travel in public transport.
(d) Buddhism was forced on the Sri Lankan Tamils.
Q 106 MCQ
Explain the meaning of Majoritarianism as practiced in Sri Lanka?
(a) The leaders of the Sinhala community sought to secure dominance over the government
by virtue of their majority and thus, the democratically elected government adopted a series
of majoritarian measures to establish Sinhala supremacy.
(b) The leaders of the Hindu community sought to secure dominance over the government by
virtue of their majority and thus, the democratically elected government adopted a series of
majoritarian measures to establish Hindu supremacy.
(c) The leaders of the Tamil community sought to secure dominance over the government by
virtue of their majority and thus, the democratically elected government adopted a series of
majoritarian measures to establish Tamil supremacy.
(d) The leaders of Muslim community sought to secure dominance over the government by
virtue of their majority and thus, the democratically elected government adopted a series of
majoritarian measures to establish Muslim supremacy.
Q 107 MCQ
Why is power sharing desirable?
(a) i. It helps to reduces the chances of unity among people
ii. It is the spirit of dictatorship.
(b) i. It helps to reduce the chances of conflict among different social groups.
ii. It is the spirit of democracy.
(c) i. It helps to reduce the chances of conflict among different social groups.
ii. It is the spirit of religion based discrimination.
(d) i. It helps to reduce the chances of conflict among different social groups.
ii. It helps in promoting the gender discrimination.
Q 108 MCQ
How is community government elected in Belgium?
(a) By people belonging to one language community- British, French or German.
(b) By people belonging to one language community- Dutch, French or Italian.
(c) By people belonging to one language community- Dutch, French or German.
(d) By people belonging to one religious community- Christian or Jew.

Start of case study (Q1-Q4)

Case Study 4 Marks
Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way political parties, pressure groups,
and movements control or influence those in power. In a democracy, the citizens must have
freedom to choose among various contenders for power. In contemporary democracies, this
takes the form of competition among different parties. Such competition ensures that power
does not remain in one hand. In the long run, power is shared among different political parties
that represent different ideologies and social groups. Sometimes this kind of sharing can be
direct, when two or more parties form an alliance to contest elections. If their alliance is
elected, they form a coalition government and thus share power. In a democracy, we find
interest groups such as those of traders, businessmen, industrialists, farmers and industrial
workers. They also will have a share in governmental power, either through participation in
governmental committees or bringing influence on the decision-making process.
Q 1 MCQ 1 Marks
What does the competition among different parties ensures?
(a) Such competition ensures that power does remain in one hand. In the long run, power is
shared among different political parties that represent different ideologies.
(b) Such competition ensures that power does not remain in one hand. But it gets worse in the
long run and creates a huge amount of conflicts, unfortunately.
(c) Such competition ensures that power does not remain in one hand. In the long run, power
is shared among different political parties that represent different ideologies and social
groups.
(d) Such competition ensures that power does, essentially, remain in one hand, as in,
following the traditional way of power sharing, easier and convenient, if not monarchical.
Q 2 MCQ 1 Marks
Explain direct form of power sharing.
(a) Sometimes power sharing can be indirect, when two or more parties form an alliance to
contest elections. If their alliance is elected, they form a coalition government and thus share
power.
(b) Sometimes power sharing can be direct, when two or more parties form an alliance to
contest elections. If their alliance is elected, they form a coalition government and thus share
power.
(c) Sometimes power sharing can be direct, when two or more parties form an alliance to
contest elections. If their alliance is elected, they form a coalition government and thus do not
share power.
(d) Sometimes power sharing can be direct, when only two parties form an alliance to contest
elections. If their alliance is elected, they form a coalition government and thus share power.
Q 3 MCQ 1 Marks
How are interest groups associated with power?
(a) They will also have a share in governmental power, either through participation in
governmental committees or bringing influence on the decisionmaking process.
(b) They will not have a share in governmental power, either through participation in
governmental committees or bringing influence on the decisionmaking process.
(c) They will also have a share in governmental power, only through participation in
governmental committees.
(d) They will not have a share in governmental power at all.
Q 4 MCQ 1 Marks
What sort of interest groups can we find in a democracy?
(a) In a democracy, we find interest groups such as those of only traders.
(b) In a democracy, we find interest groups such as those of only farmers and industrial
workers.
(c) In a democracy, we find interest groups such as those of only traders and businessmen.
(d) In a democracy, we find interest groups such as those of traders,
businessmen,industrialists, farmers and industrial workers.
End of case study (Q1-Q4)
Start of case study (Q5-Q8)
Case Study 4 Marks
Source A: Belgium Sri Lanka
Belgium is a small country in Europe, smaller in area than the state of Haryana. It has borders
with France, the Netherlands, Germany and Luxembourg. It has a population of a little over
one crore, about half the population of Haryana. The ETHNIC composition of this small
country is very complex. Of the country's total population, 59 per cent lives in the Flemish
region and speaks Dutch language. Another 40 per cent people live in the Wallonia region
and speak French. Remaining one per cent of the Belgians speak German. In the capital city
Brussels, 80 percent people speak French while 20 per cent are Dutch speaking. The minority
French-speaking community was relatively rich and powerful. This was resented by the
Dutch-speaking community who got the benefit of economic development and education
much later. This led to tensions between the Dutch-speaking and French-speaking
communities during the 1950s and 1960s. The tension between the two communities was
more acute in Brussels. Brussels presented a special problem: the Dutch-speaking
people constituted a majority in the country, but a minority in the capital.
Q 5 MCQ 1 Marks
What is the ratio of French and Dutch-speaking people in the capital of Belgium?
(a) In the capital city Brussels, 20 percent people speak French while 20 per cent are Dutch
speaking.
(b) In the capital city Brussels, 70 percent people speak French while 20 per cent are Dutch
speaking.
(c) In the capital city Brussels, 80 percent people speak French while 30 percent are Dutch
speaking.
(d) In the capital city Brussels, 80 percent people speak French while 20 per cent are Dutch
speaking.
Q 6 MCQ 1 Marks
What was the state of the French-speaking minority in Belgium?
(a) The minority French-speaking community was relatively rich and powerful.
(b) The minority French-speaking community was powerless.
(c) The minority French-speaking community was rather poor.
(d) The minority French-speaking community was growing in number.
Q 7 MCQ 1 Marks
what sort of sentiments did the Dutch-speaking people hold for the French-speaking
minority?
(a) The Dutch-speaking community respected the French-speaking minority.
(b) The Dutch-speaking community resented the Frenchspeaking minority.
(c) The Dutch-speaking community envied the Frenchspeaking minority.
(d) The Dutch-speaking community got along well with the French-speaking minority.
Q 8 MCQ 1 Marks
What sort of special problem rose in Brussels?
(a) The Dutch-speaking people constituted a minority in the country, but a majority in the
capital.
(b) The Dutch-speaking people constituted a minority in the country, as well as a minority in
the capital.
(c) The Dutch-speaking people constituted a majority in the country, but a minority in the
capital.
(d) The Dutch-speaking people constituted a majority in the entire country.
End of case study (Q5-Q8)
Start of case study (Q9-Q12)
Case Study 4 Marks
Source B: Belgium and Sri Lanka (Sri Lanka)
Let us compare this to the situation in another country. Sri Lanka is an island nation, just a
few kilometres off the southern coast of Tamil Nadu. It has about two crore people, about the
same as in Haryana. Like other nations in the South Asia region, Sri Lanka has a diverse
population. The major social groups are the Sinhala-speakers (74 per cent) and the Tamil-
speakers (18 per cent). Among Tamils there are two subgroups. Tamil natives of the country
are called 'Sri Lankan Tamils' (13 per cent). The rest, whose forefathers came from India as
plantation workers during colonial period, are called 'Indian Tamils'. As you can see from the
map, Sri Lankan Tamils are concentrated in the north and east of the country. Most of the
Sinhala speaking people are Buddhists, while most of the Tamils are Hindus or Muslims.
There are about 7 per cent Christians, who are both Tamil and Sinhala.
Q 9 MCQ 1 Marks
What are the two groups of Tamils in Sri Lanka?
(a) Among Tamils there are two subgroups. Tamil natives of the country are called 'Sri
Lankan Tamils' (14 per cent). The rest, whose forefathers came from India as plantation
workers during colonial period, are called 'Indian Tamils'.
(b) Among Tamils there are two subgroups. Tamil natives of the country are called 'Sri
Lankan Tamils' (12 per cent). The rest, whose forefathers came from India as plantation
workers during colonial period, are called 'Indian Tamils'.
(c) Among Tamils there are two subgroups. Tamil natives of the country are called 'Sri
Lankan Tamils' (13 per cent). The rest, whose forefathers came from India as plantation
workers during colonial period, are called 'Indian Tamils'.
(d) Among Tamils there are two subgroups. Tamil natives of the country are called 'Sri
Lankan Tamils' (14 per cent). The rest, whose forefathers came from India as plantation
workers during colonial period, are called 'Indian Tamils'.
Q 10 MCQ 1 Marks
Most of the Sinhala speaking people belong to which religion?
(a) They follow Hinduism. (b) They follow Islam.
(c) They follow Christianity. (d) They follow Buddhism.
Q 11 MCQ 1 Marks
In which part of the country are Sri Lankan Tamils mostly settled?
(a) Sri Lankan Tamils are concentrated in the north and east of the country.
(b) Sri Lankan Tamils are concentrated in the south and east of the country.
(c) Sri Lankan Tamils are concentrated in the north and south of the country.
(d) Sri Lankan Tamils are concentrated in the west and east of the country.
Q 12 MCQ 1 Marks
What is the approximate population of people in Sri Lanka?
(a) There are about 1 crore people. (b) There are about 2 crore people.
(c) There are about 3 crore people. (d) There are about 4 crore people.
End of case study (Q9-Q12)
Start of case study (Q13-Q16)
Case Study 4 Marks
Source C: Belgium and Sri Lanka (comparison between Belgium and Sri Lanka)
In Belgium, the Dutch community could take advantage of its numeric majority and force its
will on the French and German-speaking population. This would push the conflict among the
communities further. This could lead to a very messy partition of the country; both the sides
would claim control over Brussels. In Sri Lanka, the Sinhala community enjoyed an even
bigger majority and could impose its will on the entire country.
Q 13 MCQ 1 Marks
In Belgium, which community could take advantage of its numeric majority and how?
(a) If we imagine Belgium's position in the same context as Sri Lanka then in that case, the
Dutch community could take advantage of its numeric majority and force its will on the
French and German-speaking population.
(b) If we imagine Belgium's position in the same context as Sri Lanka then in that case, the
French community could take advantage of its numeric majority and force its will on the
Dutch and German-speaking population.
(c) If we imagine Belgium's position in the same context as Sri Lanka then in that case, the
German community could take advantage of its numeric majority and force its will on the
French and Dutch-speaking population.
(d) If we imagine Belgium's position in the same context as Sri Lanka then in that case, the
French community could take advantage of its numeric majority and force its will on the
German-speaking population.
Q 14 MCQ 1 Marks
Which community had a majority in Sri Lanka?
(a) The Hindu community had a majority in Sri Lanka.
(b) The Sinhala community had a majority in Sri Lanka.
(c) The Christian community had a majority in Sri Lanka.
(d) The Buddhist community had a majority in Sri Lanka.
Q 15 MCQ 1 Marks
What was the advantage of existing as a majority in Sri Lanka?
(a) They could get free employment. (b) They could leave the country.
(c) They could impose its will on the entire country. (d) They could get free accommodation.
Q 16 MCQ 1 Marks
Name one bad consequence of a majority community imposing its will on the minority.
(a) There are no bad consequences. (b) This could lead to unemployment.
(c) This could lead to severe conflicts. (d) There will be tension but people will forget easily.
End of case study (Q13-Q16)
Start of case study (Q17-Q20)
Case Study 4 Marks
Sri Lanka emerged as an independent country in 1948.The leaders of the Sinhala community
sought to secure dominance over government by virtue of their majority. As a result, the
democratically elected government adopted a series of MAJORITARIAN measures to
establish Sinhala supremacy. In 1956, an Act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only
official language, thus disregarding Tamil.The governments followed preferential policies
that favoured Sinhala applicants for university positions and governments jobs. A new
constitution stipulated that the state shall protect and foster Buddhism. All these government
measures, coming one after other, gradually increased the feeling of alienation among the Sri
Lankan Tamils. They felt that none of the major political parties led by the Buddhist Sinhala
leaders was sensitive to their language and culture. They felt that the constitution and
government policies denied them equal political rights, discriminated against them in getting
jobs and other opportunities and ignored their interest. As a result, the relations between the
Sinhala and Tamil communities strained over time. The Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties
and struggles for the recognition of Tamil as an official language, for regional autonomy and
equality of opportunity in securing education and jobs. But their demand for more autonomy
to provinces populated by the Tamils was repeatedly denied. By 1980s several political
organisations were formed demanding an independent Tamil Eelam (state) in northern and
eastern parts of Sri Lanka. The distrust between the two communities turned into widespread
conflict. It soon turned into a CIVIL WAR. As a result thousands of people of both the
communities have been killed. Many families were forced to leave the country as refugees
and many more lost their livelihoods.
Q 17 MCQ 1 Marks
What did the Sinhala leaders do?
(a) The leaders of the Sinhala community sought to secure dominance over government by
virtue of their majority. As a result, the democratically elected government adopted a series
of majoritarian measures to establish Sinhala supremacy.
(b) The leaders of the Tamil Hindu community sought to secure dominance over government
by virtue of their majority. As a result, the democratically elected government adopted a
series of majoritarian measures to establish Sinhala supremacy.
(c) The leaders of the Sinhala community sought to secure dominance over government by
virtue of their majority. As a result, the democratically elected government reigned no
supremacy though.
(d) The leaders of the Sinhala community sought to secure dominance over government by
virtue of their minority. As a result, the democratically elected government adopted a series
of minoritarian measures to establish Sinhala supremacy.
Q 18 MCQ 1 Marks
What happened after the Act of 1956 was passed out?
(a) In 1950, an Act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language, thus
disregarding Tamil.The governments followed preferential policies that favoured Sinhala
applicants for university positions and governments jobs. A new constitution stipulated that
the state shall protect and foster Buddhism.
(b) In 1960, an Act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language, thus
disregarding Tamil.The governments followed preferential policies that favoured Sinhala
applicants for university positions and governments jobs. A new constitution stipulated
that the state shall protect and foster Buddhism.
(c) In 1956, an Act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language, thus
disregarding Tamil.The governments followed preferential policies that favoured Sinhala
applicants for university positions and governments jobs. A new constitution stipulated that
the state shall protect and foster Buddhism.
(d) In 1957, an Act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language, thus
disregarding Tamil.The governments followed preferential policies that favoured Sinhala
applicants for university positions and governments jobs. A new constitution stipulated
that the state shall protect and foster Buddhism.
Q 19 MCQ 1 Marks
What were the reasons behind Civil War in Sri Lanka?
(a) The distrust between the two communities, the Sinhalas and the Tamils, turned into
widespread conflict. But it ended pretty soon and people were quick to forget about it despite
many families being forced to leave the country as refugees and many
more losing their livelihoods.
(b) The distrust between the two communities, Sinhala and Tamils, turned into widespread
conflict. Many families were forced to leave the country as refugees and many more lost their
livelihoods. It soon turned into a civil war and even the other countries had to get
involved.
(c) The distrust between the two communities, Sinhala and Tamils, turned into widespread
conflict. It soon turned into a civil war. As a result thousands of people of both the
communities have been killed. Many families were forced to leave the country as refugees
and many more lost their livelihoods.
(d) The distrust between the two communities, Sinhala and Tamils, turned into widespread
conflict. Many families were forced to leave the country as refugees and many more lost their
livelihoods. It isn't specified as to what happened next,therefore, it remains in the dark.
Q 20 MCQ 1 Marks
Why did the Sri Lankan Tamils launch struggles and parties?
(a) The Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties and struggles for the recognition of Hinduism as
an official religion, for regional autonomy and equality of opportunity in securing education
and jobs.
(b) The Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties and struggles only for the recognition of Tamil as
an official language.
(c) The Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties and struggles only for regional autonomy and
equality of opportunity in securing education and jobs.
(d) The Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties and struggles for the recognition of Tamil as an
official language, for regional autonomy and equality of opportunity in securing education
and jobs.
End of case study (Q17-Q20)

Start of case study (Q21-Q24)

Case Study 4 Marks
Source A: Forms of Power Sharing (among Different Organs of Government)
Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive and
judiciary. Let us call this horizontal distribution of power because it allows different organs
of government placed at the same level to exercise different powers. Such a separation
ensures that none of the organs can exercise unlimited power. Each organ checks the others.
This results in a balance of power among various institutions. In a democracy, even though
ministers and government officials exercise power, they are responsible to the Parliament or
State Assemblies. Similarly, although judges are appointed by the executive, they can check
the functioning of executive or laws made by the legislatures. This arrangement is called a
system of checks and balances.
Q 21 MCQ 1 Marks
What is checks and balances system?
(a) In a democracy, even though ministers and government officials exercise power, they are
not responsible to the Parliament or State Assemblies. Similarly, judges are appointed by the
executive or laws made by the legislatures. This arrangement is called a system of checks and
balances.
(b) In a democracy, even though ministers and government officials exercise power, they are
responsible to the Parliament or State Assemblies. Similarly, judges are appointed by the
executive, they can check the functioning of executive or laws made by the legislatures. This
arrangement is called checks and balances.
(c) In a democracy, even though ministers and government officials exercise power, they are
responsible to the Parliament or State Assemblies. Similarly, judges are appointed by the
executive or laws made by the legislatures. This arrangement is called a system of checks and
balances and changes.
(d) In a democracy, ministers and government officials exercise power, and are not
responsible to the Parliament or State Assemblies. Similarly, judges are appointed by the
executive, they can check the functioning of executive or laws made by the legislatures. This
arrangement is not called a system of checks and changes.
Q 22 MCQ 1 Marks
Power is shared amongst which organs of the Government?
(a) Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive.
(b) Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature and
judiciary.
(c) Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the executive and
judiciary.
(d) Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive
and judiciary.
Q 23 MCQ 1 Marks
Why is it vital for the organs of government to check each other?
(a) Each organ checks the others. This results in a balance of power among various
institutions.
(b) Each organ checks the others. This does not result in a balance of power among various
institutions.
(c) Each organ do not checks the others. This results in a balance of power among various
institutions.
(d) Each organ checks the others. This results in a balance of power among various people.
Q 24 MCQ 1 Marks
What are the roles of the judges?
(a) The role of the judges is to only check the laws made by the legislatures.
(b) The role of the judges is to only check the functioning of the judiciary or laws made by
the legislatures.
(c) The role of the judges is to check the functioning of executive or laws made by the
legislatures.
(d) The role of the judges is to only check the functioning of only executive.
End of case study (Q21-Q24)
Start of case study (Q25-Q28)
Case Study 4 Marks
Source B: Forms of Power Sharing (Political Parties, Pressure Groups and Movements)
Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way political parties, pressure groups and
movements control or influence those in power. In a democracy, the citizens must have
freedom to choose among various contenders for power. In contemporary democracies, this
takes the form of competition among different parties. Such competition ensures that power
does not remain in one hand. In the long run, power is shared among different political parties
that represent different ideologies and social groups. Sometimes this kind of sharing can be
direct, when two or more parties form an alliance to contest elections. If their alliance is
elected, they form a coalition government and thus share power. In a democracy, we find
interest groups such as those of traders, businessmen, industrialists, farmers, and industrial
workers. They also will have a share in governmental power, either through participation in
governmental committees or bringing influence on the decision-making process.
Q 25 MCQ 1 Marks
Who are the interest groups in democracy and what is their share?
(a) In a democracy, we find interest groups such as those of traders, businessmen,
industrialists, farmers, and industrial workers. They also will have a share in governmental
power, either through participation in governmental committees or bringing influence on the
decision-making process.
(b) In a democracy, we find interest groups of only traders. They also will have a share in
governmental power, either through participation in governmental committees or bringing
influence on the decisionmaking process.
(c) In a democracy, we find interest groups of only businessmen. They also will have a share
in governmental power, either through participation in governmental committees or bringing
influence on the decision-making process.
(d) In a democracy, we find interest groups such as those of only traders, businessmen. They
also will have a share in governmental power, either through participation in governmental
committees or bringing influence on the decision-making process.
Q 26 MCQ 1 Marks
How does a coalition government come to be?
(a) When only two parties form an alliance to contest elections and their alliance is elected,
they form a coalition government and thus share power.
(b) When three or more parties form an alliance to contest elections and their alliance is not
elected, they form a coalition government and thus share power.
(c) When two or more parties form an alliance to contest elections and their alliance is
elected, they form a coalition government and thus share power.
(d) When two or more parties form an alliance to contest elections and their alliance is not
elected, they form a coalition government and thus share power.
Q 27 MCQ 1 Marks
Where else can we see power sharing arrangements?
(a) Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way only pressure groups and
movements control or influence those in power.
(b) Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way political parties, pressure groups
and movements control or influence those in power.
(c) Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way only movements control or
influence those in power.
(d) Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way only political parties, pressure
groups influence those in power.
Q 28 MCQ 1 Marks
Why are competitions amongst parties necessary?
(a) Such competition ensures that power does remains in one hand.
(b) Such competition does not ensures that power does not remain in one hand.
(c) Such competition may ensure that power does remain in many hand.
(d) Such competition ensures that power does not remain in one hand.
End of case study (Q25-Q28)
Start of case study (Q29-Q32)
Case Study 4 Marks
Source C: Forms of Power Sharing (among Governments at Different Levels)
Power can be shared among governments at different levels- a general government at the
provincial or regional level. Such a general government for the entire country is usually
called federal government. In India, we refer to it as the Central or Union Government. The
governments at the provincial or regional level are called by different names in different
countries. In India, we call them State Governments. This system is not followed in all
countries. There are many countries where there are no provincial or state governments. But
in those countries like ours, where there are different levels of government, the constitution
clearly lays down the powers of different levels of government. This is what they did in
Belgium, but was refused in Sri Lanka. This is called federal division of power. The same
principle can be
extended to levels of government lower than the State government, such as the municipality
and panchayat. Let us call the division of powers involving higher and lower levels of
government vertical division of power.
Q 29 MCQ 1 Marks
How is power shared among governments at different levels and what is a federal
government?
(a) Power can be shared among governments at different levels- a general government for the
entire country and the governments at the provincial or regional level. Such a general
government for the entire country is usually called vertical government.
(b) Power can be shared among governments at different levels- a general government for the
entire country and the governments at the provincial or regional level. Such a general
government for the entire country is not called federal government.
(c) Power can be shared among governments at different levels- a general government for the
entire country and the governments at the provincial or regional level. Such a general
government for the entire country is usually called federal government. In India, we refer to it
as the Unity Government.
(d) Power can be shared among governments at different levels- a general government for the
entire country and governments at the provincial or regional level. Such a general
government for the entire country is usually called federal government. In India, we refer to
it as the Central or Union Government.
Q 30 MCQ 1 Marks
Do the governments at the provincial and regional level have a specific name?
(a) The governments at the provincial or regional level are called by different names in
different countries. In India, we call them District Governments.
(b) The governments at the provincial or regional level are called by different names in
different countries. In India, we call them Union Governments.
(c) The governments at the provincial or regional level are called by different names in
different countries. In India, we call them State Governments.
(d) The governments at the provincial or regional level are called by different names in
different countries. In India, we call them Central Governments.
Q 31 MCQ 1 Marks
What do you mean by federal division of power?
(a) There are many countries where there are provincial governments. But in those countries
like ours, where there are different levels of government, the constitution does not lay down
the powers of different levels of government. This is called federal division of power.
(b) There are many countries where there are no provincial or state governments. But in
those countries, where there are different levels of government, the constitution clearly lays
down the powers of different levels of government. This is called federal division of power.
(c) There are many countries where there are state governments. But in those countries like
ours, where there are different levels of government, the constitution clearly lays down the
powers of different levels of government. This is called federal division of power.
(d) There are many countries where there are provincial or state governments. But in those
countries, where there are different levels of government, the constitution clearly lays down
the powers of different levels of government. This is called federal division of power.
Q 32 MCQ 1 Marks
What can be called as the vertical division of power?
(a) The division of powers involving higher and lower levels of government is called vertical
division of power.
(b) The division of powers involving higher and lower levels of parties is called vertical
division of power.
(c) The division of powers involving higher and lower levels of government subordinate to
the Centre is called vertical division of power.
(d) The division of powers involving executive, judiciary and legislative from only the lower
levels of government is called vertical division of power.
End of case study (Q29-Q32)
Start of case study (Q33-Q36)
Case Study 4 Marks
The Belgian leaders took a different path. They recognised the existence of regional
differences and cultural diversities. Between 1970 and 1993, they amended their constitution
four times so as to work out an arrangement that would enable everyone to live together
within the same country. The arrangement they worked out is different from any other
country and is very innovative. Here are some of the elements of the Belgian model.
i) Constitution prescribes that the number of Dutch and French-speaking ministers shall be
equal in the central government. Some special laws require the support of majority of
members from each linguistic group. Thus, no single community can make decisions
unilaterally.
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 Frenchspeaking 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. This government has the
power regarding cultural, educational and language- related issues. You might find the
Belgian model very complicated. It is indeed very complicated, even for people living in
Belgium. But these arrangements have worked well so far. They helped to avoid civic strife
between the two major communities and a possible division of the country on linguistic lines.
When many countries of Europe came together to form the European Union, Brussels was
chosen as its headquarters.
Q 33 MCQ 1 Marks
When and why was the Belgian Constitution amended by its leaders?
(a) Between 1970 and 1993, Belgian leaders amended their constitution six times so as to
work out an arrangement that would enable everyone to live together within the same
country, keeping in mind the existence of their regional differences and cultural diversities.
(b) Between 1990 and 1993, Belgian leaders amended their constitution four times so as to
work out an arrangement that would enable everyone to live together within the same
country, keeping in mind the existence of their regional differences and cultural diversities.
(c) Between 1970 and 1993, Belgian leaders amended their constitution four times so as to
work out an arrangement that would enable everyone to live together within the same
country, keeping in mind the existence of their regional differences and cultural diversities.
(d) Between 1970 and 1983, Belgian leaders amended their constitution nine times so as to
work out an arrangement that would enable everyone to live together within the same
country, keeping in mind the existence of their regional differences and cultural diversities.
Q 34 MCQ 1 Marks
How is power distributed among governments in Belgium?
(a) 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.
(b) Many powers of the central government have been given to state governments of the two
regions of the country. The state governments are subordinate to the Central Government.
(c) Many powers of the central government have been given to federal governments of the
two regions of the country. The community governments are subordinate to the Central
Government.
(d) Many powers of the State government have been given to Central government of the
country. The Central government is the subordinate to the State
Government.
Q 35 MCQ 1 Marks
Which is the third kind of government in Belgium and who elects it?
(a) 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- the
Dutch-speaking- no matter where they live.
(b) 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-
only the French-speaking- no matter where they live.
(c) Apart from the Central and the State Government, there is a third kind of government.
This 'federal government' is elected by people belonging to one language community- Dutch,
French and Germanspeaking- no matter where they live.
(d) 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 Germanspeaking- no matter where they live.
Q 36 MCQ 1 Marks
What does the Constitution say about the Dutch-speaking and French-speaking ministers?
(a) Constitution prescribes that the number of Dutch and French-speaking ministers shall not
be equal in the central government. Some special laws require the support of majority of
members from each linguistic group. Thus, only one community can make decisions
unilaterally.
(b) Constitution prescribes that the number of Dutch and French-speaking ministers shall be
equal in the central government. Some special laws require the support of majority of
members from each linguistic group. Thus, no single community can make decisions
unilaterally.
(c) Constitution prescribes that the number of Frenchspeaking ministers shall be more than
the Dutch speaking ministers in the central government.
(d) Constitution prescribes that the number of Dutchspeaking ministers shall be more than the
French speaking ministers in the central government.
End of case study (Q33-Q36)
Start of case study (Q37-Q41)
Case Study 5 Marks
Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way political parties, pressure groups,
and movements control or influence those in power. In a democracy, the citizens must have
freedom to choose among various contenders for power. In contemporary democracies, this
takes the form of competition among different parties. Such competition ensures that power
does not remain in one hand. In the long run, power is shared among different political parties
that represent different ideologies and social groups. Sometimes this kind of sharing can be
direct, when two or more parties form an alliance to contest elections. If their alliance is
elected, they form a coalition government and thus share power. In a democracy, we find
interest groups such as those of traders, businessmen, industrialists, farmers and industrial
workers. They also will have a share in governmental power, either through participation in
governmental committees or bringing influence on the decision-making process.
Q 37 MCQ 1 Marks
What does the competition among different parties ensures?
(a) Such competition ensures that power does remain in one hand. In the long run, power is
shared among different political parties that represent different ideologies.
(b) Such competition ensures that power does not remain in one hand. But it gets worse in the
long run and creates a huge amount of conflicts, unfortunately.
(c) Such competition ensures that power does not remain in one hand. In the long run, power
is shared among different political parties that represent
different ideologies and social groups.
(d) Such competition ensures that power does, essentially, remain in one hand, as in,
following the traditional way of power sharing, easier and convenient, if not monarchical.
Q 38 MCQ 1 Marks
Explain direct form of power sharing.
(a) Sometimes power sharing can be indirect, when two or more parties form an alliance to
contest elections. If their alliance is elected, they form a coalition
government and thus share power.
(b) Sometimes power sharing can be direct, when two or more parties form an alliance to
contest elections. If their alliance is elected, they form a coalition government and thus share
power.
(c) Sometimes power sharing can be direct, when two or more parties form an alliance to
contest elections. If their alliance is elected, they form a coalition government and thus do not
share power.
(d) Sometimes power sharing can be direct, when only two parties form an alliance to contest
elections. If their alliance is elected, they form a coalition government and thus share power.
Q 39 MCQ 1 Marks
How are interest groups associated with power?
(a) They will also have a share in governmental power, either through participation in
governmental committees or bringing influence on the decisionmaking process.
(b) They will not have a share in governmental power, either through participation in
governmental committees or bringing influence on the decisionmaking process.
(c) They will also have a share in governmental power, only through participation in
governmental committees.
(d) They will not have a share in governmental power at all.
Q 40 MCQ 1 Marks
What sort of interest groups can we find in a democracy?
(a) In a democracy, we find interest groups such as those of only traders.
(b) In a democracy, we find interest groups such as those of only farmers and industrial
workers.
(c) In a democracy, we find interest groups such as those of only traders and businessmen.
(d) In a democracy, we find interest groups such as those of traders, businessmen,
industrialists, farmers and industrial workers.
Q 41 MCQ 1 Marks
How are power sharing arrangements seen as?
(a) Power sharing arrangements are seen in the way political parties, pressure groups, and
movements control or influence those in power.
(b) Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way political parties are pressurised
by those in power
(c) Power sharing arrangements can also be seen as a threat to the government
(d) None of these
End of case study (Q37-Q41)
Start of case study (Q42-Q46)
Case Study 5 Marks
Source A: Belgium Sri Lanka
Belgium is a small country in Europe, smaller in area than the state of Haryana. It has borders
with France, the Netherlands, Germany and Luxembourg. It has a population of a little over
one crore, about half the population of Haryana. The ETHNIC composition of this small
country is very complex. Of the country's total population, 59 per cent lives in the Flemish
region and speaks Dutch language. Another 40 per cent people live in the Wallonia region
and speak French. Remaining one per cent of the Belgians speak German. In the capital city
Brussels, 80 percent people speak French while 20 per cent are Dutch speaking. The minority
French-speaking community was relatively rich and powerful. This was resented by the
Dutch-speaking community who got the benefit of economic development and education
much later. This led to tensions between the Dutch-speaking and French-speaking
communities during the 1950s and 1960s. The tension between the two communities was
more acute in Brussels. Brussels presented a special problem: the Dutch-speaking
people constituted a majority in the country, but a minority in the capital.
Q 42 MCQ 1 Marks
Which countries border Belgium?
(a) France (b) Netherland
(c) Germany (d) All of these
Q 43 MCQ 1 Marks
What was the state of the French-speaking minority in Belgium?
(a) The minority French-speaking community was relatively rich and powerful.
(b) The minority French-speaking community was powerless.
(c) The minority French-speaking community was rather poor.
(d) The minority French-speaking community was growing in number.
Q 44 MCQ 1 Marks
what sort of sentiments did the Dutch-speaking people hold for the French-speaking
minority?
(a) The Dutch-speaking community respected the French-speaking minority.
(b) The Dutch-speaking community resented the Frenchspeaking minority.
(c) The Dutch-speaking community envied the Frenchspeaking minority.
(d) The Dutch-speaking community got along well with the French-speaking minority.
Q 45 MCQ 1 Marks
What was the language spoken by majority in Belgium?
(a) Dutch (b) German
(c) English (d) French
Q 46 MCQ 1 Marks
What sort of special problem rose in Brussels?
(a) The Dutch-speaking people constituted a minority in the country, but a majority in the
capital.
(b) The Dutch-speaking people constituted a minority in the country, as well as a minority in
the capital.
(c) The Dutch-speaking people constituted a majority in the country, but a minority in the
capital.
(d) The Dutch-speaking people constituted a majority in the entire country.
End of case study (Q42-Q46)
Start of case study (Q47-Q51)
Case Study 5 Marks
Source B: Belgium and Sri Lanka (Sri Lanka)
Let us compare this to the situation in another country. Sri Lanka is an island nation, just a
few kilometres off the southern coast of Tamil Nadu. It has about two crore people, about the
same as in Haryana. Like other nations in the South Asia region, Sri Lanka has a diverse
population. The major social groups are the Sinhala-speakers (74 per cent) and the Tamil-
speakers (18 per cent). Among Tamils there are two subgroups. Tamil natives of the country
are called 'Sri Lankan Tamils' (13 per cent). The rest, whose forefathers came from India as
plantation workers during colonial period, are called 'Indian Tamils'. As you can see from the
map, Sri Lankan Tamils are concentrated in the north and east of the country. Most of the
Sinhala speaking people are Buddhists, while most of the Tamils are Hindus or Muslims.
There are about 7 per cent Christians, who are both Tamil and Sinhala.
Q 47 MCQ 1 Marks
What are the two groups of Tamils in Sri Lanka?
(a) Among Tamils there are two subgroups. Tamil natives of the country are called 'Sri
Lankan Tamils' (14 per cent). The rest, whose forefathers came from India as plantation
workers during colonial period, are called
'Indian Tamils'.
(b) Among Tamils there are two subgroups. Tamil natives of the country are called 'Sri
Lankan Tamils' (12 per cent). The rest, whose forefathers came from India as plantation
workers during colonial period, are called 'Indian Tamils'.
(c) Among Tamils there are two subgroups. Tamil natives of the country are called 'Sri
Lankan Tamils' (13 per cent). The rest, whose forefathers came from India as
plantation workers during colonial period, are called 'Indian Tamils'.
(d) Among Tamils there are two subgroups. Tamil natives of the country are called 'Sri
Lankan Tamils' (14 per cent). The rest, whose forefathers came from India as plantation
workers during colonial period, are called 'Indian Tamils'.
Q 48 MCQ 1 Marks
Most of the Sinhala speaking people belong to which religion?
(a) They follow Hinduism. (b) They follow Islam.
(c) They follow Christianity. (d) They follow Buddhism.
Q 49 MCQ 1 Marks
In which part of the country are Sri Lankan Tamils mostly settled?
(a) Sri Lankan Tamils are concentrated in the north and east of the country.
(b) Sri Lankan Tamils are concentrated in the south and east of the country.
(c) Sri Lankan Tamils are concentrated in the north and south of the country.
(d) Sri Lankan Tamils are concentrated in the west and east of the country.
Q 50 MCQ 1 Marks
What is the approximate population of people in Sri Lanka?
(a) There are about 1 crore people. (b) There are about 2 crore people.
(c) There are about 3 crore people. (d) There are about 4 crore people.
Q 51 MCQ 1 Marks
Sri Lanka is an island nation, just a few kilometres off the southern coast of
(a) Kerala (b) Tamil Nadu
(c) Karnataka (d) None of these
End of case study (Q47-Q51)
Start of case study (Q52-Q56)
Case Study 5 Marks
Source C: Belgium and Sri Lanka (comparison between Belgium and Sri Lanka)
In Belgium, the Dutch community could take advantage of its numeric majority and force its
will on the French and German-speaking population. This would push the conflict among the
communities further. This could lead to a very messy partition of the country; both the sides
would claim control over Brussels. In Sri Lanka, the Sinhala community enjoyed an even
bigger majority and could impose its will on the entire country.
Q 52 MCQ 1 Marks
In Belgium, which community could take advantage of its numeric majority and how?
(a) Dutch community could take advantage of its numeric majority and force its will on the
French and Germanspeaking population.
(b) French community could take advantage of its numeric majority and force its will on the
Dutch and German-speaking population.
(c) German community could take advantage of its numeric majority and force its will on the
French and Dutch-speaking population.
(d) French community could take advantage of its numeric majority and force its will on the
Germanspeaking population.
Q 53 MCQ 1 Marks
Which community had a majority in Sri Lanka?
(a) The Hindu community had a majority in Sri Lanka.
(b) The Sinhala community had a majority in Sri Lanka.
(c) The Christian community had a majority in Sri Lanka.
(d) The Buddhist community had a majority in Sri Lanka.
Q 54 MCQ 1 Marks
What was the advantage of existing as a majority in Sri Lanka?
(a) They could get free employment. (b) They could leave the country.
(c) They could impose its will on the entire country. (d) They could get free accommodation.
Q 55 MCQ 1 Marks
Name one bad consequence of a majority community imposing its will on the minority.
(a) There are no bad consequences. (b) This could lead to unemployment.
(c) This could lead to severe conflicts. (d) There will be tension but people will forget easily.
Q 56 MCQ 1 Marks
How are Belgium and Sri-Lanka similar?
(a) They are neighbouring countries (b) They have the same culture
(c) They have a similar population distribution (d) None of these
End of case study (Q52-Q56)
Start of case study (Q57-Q61)
Case Study 5 Marks
Sri Lanka emerged as an independent country in 1948.The leaders of the Sinhala community
sought to secure dominance over government by virtue of their majority. As a result, the
democratically elected government adopted a series of MAJORITARIAN measures to
establish Sinhala supremacy. In 1956, an Act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only
official language, thus disregarding Tamil.The governments followed preferential policies
that favoured Sinhala applicants for university positions and governments jobs. A new
constitution stipulated that the state shall protect and foster Buddhism. All these government
measures, coming one after other, gradually increased the feeling of alienation among the Sri
Lankan Tamils. They felt that none of the major political parties led by the Buddhist Sinhala
leaders was sensitive to their language and culture. They felt that the constitution and
government policies denied them equal political rights, discriminated against them in getting
jobs and other opportunities and ignored their interest. As a result, the relations between the
Sinhala and Tamil communities strained over time. The Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties
and struggles for the recognition of Tamil as an official language, for regional autonomy and
equality of opportunity in securing education and jobs. But their demand for more autonomy
to provinces populated by the Tamils was repeatedly denied. By 1980s several political
organisations were formed demanding an independent Tamil Eelam (state) in northern and
eastern parts of Sri Lanka. The distrust between the two communities turned into widespread
conflict. It soon turned into a CIVIL WAR. As a result thousands of people of both the
communities have been killed. Many families were forced to leave the country as refugees
and many more lost their livelihoods.
Q 57 MCQ 1 Marks
What did the Sinhala leaders do?
(a) The leaders of the Sinhala community sought to secure dominance over government by
virtue of their majority. As a result, the democratically elected government adopted a series
of majoritarian measures to establish Sinhala supremacy.
(b) The leaders of the Tamil Hindu community sought to secure dominance over government
by virtue of their majority. As a result, the democratically elected government adopted a
series of majoritarian measures to establish Sinhala supremacy.
(c) The leaders of the Sinhala community sought to secure dominance over government by
virtue of their majority. As a result, the democratically elected government reigned no
supremacy though.
(d) The leaders of the Sinhala community sought to secure dominance over government by
virtue of their minority. As a result, the democratically elected government adopted a series
of minoritarian measures to establish Sinhala supremacy.
Q 58 MCQ 1 Marks
What happened after the Act of 1956 was passed out?
(a) In 1950, an Act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language, thus
disregarding Tamil.The governments followed preferential policies that favoured Sinhala
applicants for university positions and governments jobs. A new constitution stipulated that
the state shall protect and foster Buddhism.
(b) In 1960, an Act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language, thus
disregarding Tamil.The governments followed preferential policies that favoured Sinhala
applicants for university positions and governments jobs. A new constitution stipulated that
the state shall protect and foster Buddhism.
(c) In 1956, an Act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language, thus
disregarding Tamil.The governments followed preferential policies that favoured Sinhala
applicants for university positions and governments jobs. A new constitution stipulated that
the state shall protect and foster Buddhism.
(d) In 1957, an Act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language, thus
disregarding Tamil.The governments followed preferential policies that favoured Sinhala
applicants for university positions and governments jobs. A new constitution stipulated that
the state shall protect and foster Buddhism.
Q 59 MCQ 1 Marks
What were the reasons behind Civil War in Sri Lanka?
(a) The distrust between the two communities, the Sinhalas and the Tamils, turned into
widespread conflict. But it ended pretty soon and people were quick to forget about it despite
many families being forced to leave the country as refugees and many more losing their
livelihoods.
(b) The distrust between the two communities, Sinhala and Tamils, turned into widespread
conflict. Many families were forced to leave the country as refugees and many more lost their
livelihoods. It soon turned into a civil war and even the other countries had to get involved.
(c) The distrust between the two communities, Sinhala and Tamils, turned into widespread
conflict. It soon turned into a civil war. As a result thousands of people of both the
communities have been killed. Many families were forced to leave the country as
refugees and many more lost their livelihoods.
(d) The distrust between the two communities, Sinhala and Tamils, turned into widespread
conflict. Many families were forced to leave the country as refugees and many more lost their
livelihoods. It isn't specified as to what happened next,therefore, it remains in the dark.
Q 60 MCQ 1 Marks
Why did the Sri Lankan Tamils launch struggles and parties?
(a) The Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties and struggles for the recognition of Hinduism as
an official religion, for regional autonomy and equality of opportunity in securing education
and jobs.
(b) The Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties and struggles only for the recognition of Tamil as
an official language.
(c) The Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties and struggles only for regional autonomy and
equality of opportunity in securing education and jobs.
(d) The Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties and struggles for the recognition of Tamil as an
official language, for regional autonomy and equality of opportunity in securing education
and jobs.
Q 61 MCQ 1 Marks
What did the new constitution stipulate?
(a) To foster and protect Buddhist (b) To foster and protect SInhalas
(c) To foster and protect tamils (d) None of these
End of case study (Q57-Q61)
Start of case study (Q62-Q66)
Case Study 5 Marks
Source A: Forms of Power Sharing (among Different Organs of Government)
Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive and
judiciary. Let us call this horizontal distribution of power because it allows different organs
of government placed at the same level to exercise different powers. Such a separation
ensures that none of the organs can exercise unlimited power. Each organ checks
the others. This results in a balance of power among various institutions. In a democracy,
even though ministers and government officials exercise power, they are responsible to the
Parliament or State Assemblies. Similarly, although judges are appointed by the executive,
they can check the functioning of executive or laws made by the legislatures. This
arrangement is called a system of checks and balances.
Q 62 MCQ 1 Marks
What is checks and balances system?
(a) In a democracy, even though ministers and government officials exercise power, they are
not responsible to the Parliament or State Assemblies. Similarly, judges are appointed by the
executive or laws made by the legislatures. This arrangement is called a system of checks and
balances.
(b) In a democracy, even though ministers and government officials exercise power, they are
responsible to the Parliament or State Assemblies. Similarly, judges are appointed by the
executive, they can check the functioning of executive or laws made by the legislatures. This
arrangement is called checks and balances.
(c) In a democracy, even though ministers and government officials exercise power, they are
responsible to the Parliament or State Assemblies. Similarly, judges are appointed by the
executive or laws made by the legislatures. This arrangement is called a system of checks and
balances and changes.
(d) In a democracy, ministers and government officials exercise power, and are not
responsible to the Parliament or State Assemblies. Similarly, judges are appointed by the
executive, they can check the functioning of executive or laws made by the legislatures. This
arrangement is not called a system of checks and changes.
Q 63 MCQ 1 Marks
Power is shared amongst which organs of the Government?
(a) Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive.
(b) Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature and
judiciary.
(c) Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the executive and
judiciary.
(d) Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive
and judiciary.
Q 64 MCQ 1 Marks
Why is it vital for the organs of government to check each other?
(a) Each organ checks the others. This results in a balance of power among various
institutions.
(b) Each organ checks the others. This does not result in a balance of power among various
institutions.
(c) Each organ do not checks the others. This results in a balance of power among various
institutions.
(d) Each organ checks the others. This results in a balance of power among various people.
Q 65 MCQ 1 Marks
What are the roles of the judges?
(a) The role of the judges is to only check the laws made by the legislatures.
(b) The role of the judges is to only check the functioning of the judiciary or laws made by
the legislatures.
(c) The role of the judges is to check the functioning of executive or laws made by the
legislatures.
(d) The role of the judges is to only check the functioning of only executive.
Q 66 MCQ 1 Marks
What is the advantage of power sharing?
(a) Reduces the possiblilty of conflict between different social groups
(b) It establishes peace
(c) Both (a) and (b) ( d) None of these
End of case study (Q62-Q66)
Start of case study (Q67-Q71)
Case Study 5 Marks
Source B: Forms of Power Sharing (Political Parties, Pressure Groups and Movements)
Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way political parties, pressure groups and
movements control or influence those in power. In a democracy, the citizens must have
freedom to choose among various contenders for power. In contemporary democracies, this
takes the form of competition among different parties. Such competition ensures that power
does not remain in one hand. In the long run, power is shared among different political parties
that
represent different ideologies and social groups. Sometimes this kind of sharing can be direct,
when two or more parties form an alliance to contest elections. If their alliance is elected,
they form a coalition government and thus share power. In a democracy, we find interest
groups such as those of traders, businessmen, industrialists, farmers, and industrial workers.
They also will have a share in governmental power, either through participation in
governmental committees or bringing influence on the decision-making process.
Q 67 MCQ 1 Marks
Who are the interest groups in democracy and what is their share?
(a) In a democracy, we find interest groups such as those of traders, businessmen,
industrialists, farmers, and industrial workers. They also will have a share in governmental
power, either through participation in governmental committees or bringing influence on the
decision-making process.
(b) In a democracy, we find interest groups of only traders. They also will have a share in
governmental power, either through participation in governmental committees or bringing
influence on the decisionmaking process.
(c) In a democracy, we find interest groups of only businessmen. They also will have a share
in governmental power, either through participation in governmental committees or bringing
influence on the decision-making process.
(d) In a democracy, we find interest groups such as those of only traders, businessmen. They
also will have a share in governmental power, either through participation in governmental
committees or bringing influence on the decision-making process.
Q 68 MCQ 1 Marks
How does a coalition government come to be?
(a) When only two parties form an alliance to contest elections and their alliance is elected,
they form a coalition government and thus share power.
(b) When three or more parties form an alliance to contest elections and their alliance is not
elected, they form a coalition government and thus share power.
(c) When two or more parties form an alliance to contest elections and their alliance is
elected, they form a coalition government and thus share power.
(d) When two or more parties form an alliance to contest elections and their alliance is not
elected, they form a coalition government and thus share power.
Q 69 MCQ 1 Marks
Where else can we see power sharing arrangements?
(a) Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way only pressure groups and
movements control or influence those in power.
(b) Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way political parties, pressure groups
and movements control or influence those in power.
(c) Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way only movements control or
influence those in power.
(d) Power sharing arrangements can also be seen in the way only political parties, pressure
groups influence those in power.
Q 70 MCQ 1 Marks
Why are competitions amongst parties necessary?
(a) Such competition ensures that power does remains in one hand.
(b) Such competition does not ensures that power does not remain in one hand.
(c) Such competition may ensure that power does remain in many hand.
(d) Such competition ensures that power does not remain in one hand.
Q 71 MCQ 1 Marks
The Indian goverment follows the concept of power sharing
(a) yes (b) No
End of case study (Q67-Q71)
Start of case study (Q72-Q76)
Case Study 5 Marks
Source C: Forms of Power Sharing (among Governments at Different Levels)
Power can be shared among governments at different levels- a general government at the
provincial or regional level. Such a general government for the entire country is usually
called federal government. In India, we refer to it as the Central or Union Government. The
governments at the provincial or regional level are called by different names in different
countries. In India, we call them State Governments. This system is not followed in all
countries. There are many countries where there are no provincial or state governments. But
in those countries like ours, where there are different levels of government, the constitution
clearly lays down the powers of different levels of government. This is what they did in
Belgium, but was refused in Sri Lanka. This is called federal division of power. The same
principle can be extended to levels of government lower than the State government, such as
the municipality and panchayat. Let us call the division of powers involving higher and lower
levels of government vertical division of power.
Q 72 MCQ 1 Marks
How is power shared among governments at different levels and what is a federal
government?
(a) Power can be shared among governments at different levels- a general government for the
entire country and the governments at the provincial or regional level. Such a general
government for the entire country is usually called vertical government.
(b) Power can be shared among governments at different levels- a general government for the
entire country and the governments at the provincial or regional level. Such a general
government for the entire country is not called federal government.
(c) Power can be shared among governments at different levels- a general government for the
entire country and the governments at the provincial or regional level. Such a general
government for the entire country is usually called federal government. In India, we refer to it
as the Unity Government.
(d) Power can be shared among governments at different levels- a general government for the
entire country and governments at the provincial or regional level. Such a general
government for the entire country is usually called federal government. In India, we refer to it
as the Central or Union Government.
Q 73 MCQ 1 Marks
Do the governments at the provincial and regional level have a specific name?
(a) The governments at the provincial or regional level are called by different names in
different countries. In India, we call them District Governments.
(b) The governments at the provincial or regional level are called by different names in
different countries. In India, we call them Union Governments.
(c) The governments at the provincial or regional level are called by different names in
different countries. In India, we call them State Governments.
(d) The governments at the provincial or regional level are called by different names in
different countries. In India, we call them Central Governments.
Q 74 MCQ 1 Marks
Which of the follwoing is an example of power sharing?
(a) Lok sabha and Rajya Sabha (b) Central government and State government
(c) Both (a) and (b) (d) None of these
Q 75 MCQ 1 Marks
What do you mean by federal division of power?
(a) There are many countries where there are provincial governments. But in those countries
like ours, where there are different levels of government, the constitution does not lay down
the powers of different levels of government. This is called federal division of power.
(b) There are many countries where there are no provincial or state governments. But in
those countries, where there are different levels of government, the constitution clearly lays
down the powers of different levels of government. This is called federal division of power.
(c) There are many countries where there are state governments. But in those countries like
ours, where there are different levels of government, the constitution clearly lays down the
powers of different levels of government. This is called federal division of power.
(d) There are many countries where there are provincial or state governments. But in those
countries, where there are different levels of government, the constitution clearly lays down
the powers of different levels of government. This is called federal division of power.
Q 76 MCQ 1 Marks
What can be called as the vertical division of power?
(a) The division of powers involving higher and lower levels of government is called vertical
division of power.
(b) The division of powers involving higher and lower levels of parties is called vertical
division of power.
(c) The division of powers involving higher and lower levels of government subordinate to
the Centre is called vertical division of power.
(d) The division of powers involving executive, judiciary and legislative from only the lower
levels of government is called vertical division of power.
End of case study (Q72-Q76)
Start of case study (Q77-Q81)
Case Study 5 Marks
The Belgian leaders took a different path. They recognised the existence of regional
differences and cultural diversities. Between 1970 and 1993, they amended their constitution
four times so as to work out an arrangement that would enable everyone to live together
within the same country. The arrangement they worked out is different from any other
country and is very innovative. Here are some of the elements of the Belgian model.
i) Constitution prescribes that the number of Dutch and French-speaking ministers shall be
equal in the central government. Some special laws require the support of majority of
members from each linguistic group. Thus, no single community can make decisions
unilaterally.
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 Frenchspeaking 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. This government has the
power regarding cultural, educational and language- related issues. You might find the
Belgian model very complicated. It is indeed very complicated, even for people living in
Belgium. But these arrangements have worked well so far. They helped to avoid civic strife
between the two major communities and a possible division of the country on linguistic lines.
When many countries of Europe came together to form the European Union, Brussels was
chosen as its headquarters.
Q 77 MCQ 1 Marks
When was the Belgian Constitution amended by its leaders?
(a) Between 1970 and 1973 (b) Between 1990 and 1993
(c) Between 1970 and 1993 (d) Between 1970 and 1983
Q 78 MCQ 1 Marks
Why was the Belgian Constitution amended by its leaders?
(a) Belgian leaders amended their constitution six times so as to work out an arrangement that
would enable everyone to live together within the same country, keeping in mind the
existence of their regional differences and cultural diversities.
(b) Belgian leaders amended their constitution two times so as to work out an arrangement
that would enable everyone to live together within the same country, keeping in mind the
existence of their regional differences and cultural diversities.
(c) Belgian leaders amended their constitution four times so as to work out arrangement that
would enable everyone to live together within the same country, keeping in mind the
existence of their regional differences and cultural diversities.
(d) Belgian leaders amended their constitution nine times so as to work out arrangement that
would enable everyone to live together within the same country, keeping in mind the
existence of their regional differences and cultural diversities.
Q 79 MCQ 1 Marks
How is power distributed among governments in Belgium?
(a) 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.
(b) Many powers of the central government have been given to state governments of the two
regions of the country. The state governments are subordinate to the Central Government.
(c) Many powers of the central government have been given to federal governments of the
two regions of the country. The community governments are subordinate to the
Central Government.
(d) Many powers of the State government have been given to Central government of the
country. The Central government is the subordinate to the State Government.
Q 80 MCQ 1 Marks
Which is the third kind of government in Belgium and who elects it?
(a) 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- the
Dutch-speaking- no matter where they live.
(b) 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-
only the French-speaking- no matter where they live.
(c) Apart from the Central and the State Government, there is a third kind of government.
This 'federal government' is elected by people belonging to one language community- Dutch,
French and Germanspeaking- no matter where they live.
(d) 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 Germanspeaking- no matter where they live.
Q 81 MCQ 1 Marks
What does the Constitution say about the Dutch-speaking and French-speaking ministers?
(a) Constitution prescribes that the number of Dutch and French-speaking ministers shall not
be equal in the central government. Some special laws require the support of majority of
members from each linguistic group. Thus, only one community can make decisions
unilaterally.
(b) Constitution prescribes that the number of Dutch and French-speaking ministers shall be
equal in the central government. Some special laws require the support of majority of
members from each linguistic group. Thus, no single community can make decisions
unilaterally.
(c) Constitution prescribes that the number of Frenchspeaking ministers shall be more than
the Dutch speaking ministers in the central government.
(d) Constitution prescribes that the number of Dutchspeaking ministers shall be more than the
French speaking ministers in the central government.
End of case study (Q77-Q81)
Start of case study (Q82-Q84)
Case Study 3 Marks
After reading this chapter, three students drew different conclusions. Thomman - Power
sharing is necessary only in societies that have religious, linguistic or ethnic divisions.
Mathayi – Power sharing is suitable only for big countries that have regional divisions.
Joseph – Every society needs some form of power-sharing even if it is small or does not have
social
divisions.
Q 82 MCQ 1 Marks
Which of the given statements is most logical?
(a) Thomman (b) Mathayi
(c) Joseph (d) All of these
Q 83 MCQ 1 Marks
Power is shared amongst which organs of the Government?
(a) Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive.
(b) Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature and
judiciary.
(c) Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the executive and
judiciary.
(d) Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive
and judiciary.
Q 84 MCQ 1 Marks
How is power sharing useful?
(a) Power-sharing helps to maintain a balance of power among various institutions
(b) Power sharing helps keep a check on how power it is exercised.
(c) People of the nation are more satisfied when they have a say in the deision making
process of the goverment
(d) All of these
End of case study (Q82-Q84)