Here are the questions and answers from the provided question bank:
1. What was Mandal Commission? Why was it appointed?
The Mandal Commission was established in 1979 by the Indian government to identify the
socially and educationally backward classes (SEBC) and recommend measures for their
advancement. It was appointed to address social inequalities and improve representation of
SEBCs in government jobs and educational institutions.
2. What was SEBC Act? What is the importance of job reservation?
The SEBC Act (Socially and Educationally Backward Classes Act) was enacted to implement
reservations for SEBCs in jobs and educational institutions. Job reservations promote social
equity, address historical injustices, and provide equal opportunities for underprivileged
sections of society.
3. “Parliament has a key role in administrative machinery.” In light of the statement,
describe the functions of Parliament.
The key functions of Parliament include:
Legislation: Enacting laws for the country.
Control over the executive: Questioning and holding the government accountable.
Financial functions: Approving the budget and expenditures.
Representation: Reflecting public opinions and grievances.
Deliberation: Discussing issues of national importance.
4. Distinguish between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
Aspect Lok Sabha Rajya Sabha
Election Directly elected by the people. Indirectly elected by state legislatures.
Term 5 years. 6 years (1/3 members retire every 2 years).
Power More powerful in financial matters. Reviews laws passed by Lok Sabha.
5. Which of the houses is more powerful - Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha? Why?
Lok Sabha is more powerful because:
It controls finances and passes money bills.
The government is accountable primarily to the Lok Sabha.
In case of disagreements, Lok Sabha has the final say in joint sessions.
6. “Both Political and Non-Political executives are significant for the country, although
Political executive is more powerful than Non-Political.” In the light of the above
statement, differentiate between the two and clarify the distribution of powers.
Aspect Political Executive Non-Political Executive
Nature of Elected representatives, e.g.,
Appointed officials, e.g., Bureaucrats.
Role Ministers.
Implements the decisions of the
Powers Makes decisions and policies.
government.
Accountable to the people and
Accountability Accountable to the Political Executive.
Parliament.
Political executives are more powerful as they represent the people's will and lead
governance.
7. How is the Prime Minister elected in India, and what are his powers?
Election: The Prime Minister is appointed by the President. Usually, the leader of the
majority party or coalition in the Lok Sabha is chosen.
Powers:
o Heads the Council of Ministers.
o Guides and coordinates government policies.
o Advises the President on key appointments and policies.
o Oversees foreign relations and defense matters.
8. How is the President elected in India, and what are his powers?
Election: The President is elected indirectly by an electoral college consisting of
Members of Parliament and Legislative Assemblies.
Powers:
o Head of state and appoints the Prime Minister, governors, and judges.
o Can veto or send back bills to Parliament.
o Oversees the defense forces as the supreme commander.
o Summons and dissolves Parliament.
9. Justify the statement that Judiciary is independent in India.
The judiciary in India is independent because:
Judges have security of tenure and cannot be easily removed.
Separation of powers ensures the judiciary is not influenced by the executive or
legislature.
The appointment process and financial independence strengthen its autonomy.
Judges can decide cases without fear or favor.
10. How are the judges of the High Court and Supreme Court appointed? How can
they be removed?
Appointment: Judges are appointed by the President on the recommendation of the
collegium system.
Removal: Judges can be removed by Parliament through impeachment on grounds
of proven misbehavior or incapacity.
11. Explain any five powers of the Supreme Court of India.
1. Original jurisdiction: Resolves disputes between states or states and the Union.
2. Appellate jurisdiction: Hears appeals from lower courts.
3. Judicial review: Examines the constitutionality of laws.
4. Advisory jurisdiction: Provides advice to the President on legal matters.
5. Guardian of Fundamental Rights: Protects citizens' rights through writs.
12. What are the limitations on the powers of the President of India?
Bound to act on the advice of the Council of Ministers.
Cannot make laws independently or overrule Parliament.
Limited veto powers for legislative bills.
Restricted in declaring emergencies without justification.
13. What is meant by the Council of Ministers? Explain the different categories of
ministers.
Council of Ministers: A body of ministers that aids and advises the President, led by
the Prime Minister.
Categories:
o Cabinet Ministers: Senior-most and handle key portfolios.
o Ministers of State (Independent Charge): Handle specific departments
independently.
o Ministers of State (With a Portfolio): Assist Cabinet Ministers.
14. Mention the institutions which take major decisions and play an important role in
the implementation in a country.
The major decision-making institutions include:
1. Parliament: Enacts laws and policies.
2. Executive (Prime Minister and Council of Ministers): Implements decisions.
3. Judiciary: Interprets laws and ensures justice.
4. Bureaucracy: Administers government policies.
Let me know if further clarification is needed!
