POWER SHARING

VERY ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS (1 Mark)

1. Why is power sharing desirable?
Ans. Power sharing is desirable to resolve disputes over exercising of power, to unite
thediversities by making them party to the decision making process and to ensure the
stability of the political order.
2. Differentiate between community govt. in Belgium and majoritarian government in Sri Lanka.
Ans. In Belgium, all the benefits of economic development and education was given toDutch
speaking communities as well as French Minority community while in SriLanka,the government
adopted a series of majoritarian measures to establish Sinhala supremacy on Tamils.
3. How and when was Sinhala recognized as the official language of Sri Lanka?
Ans. Sinhala was recognized as the official language of Sri Lanka by passing an Act in 1956.
4. What does the system of „checks and balances‟ ensure in power sharing?
Ans. That none of the organs of the government can exercise unlimited power.
5. Mention any one characteristics of power sharing.
Ans. It gives the people right to be consulted or any other characteristics.
6. After independence,Sri Lanka witnessed the supremacy of which community?
Ans. After independence in 1948, SriLanka witnessed the supremacy of Sinhala
community.
7. Which factor is responsible for increasing the feeling of alienation among the Sri Lankan
Tamils?
Ans. Majoritarianism.
8. Which type of powers does the Community Government of Belgium enjoy?
Ans. This government has the power regarding culture, education and language related issues.
9. Who formed the majority in terms of population in Sri Lanka?
Ans. Sinhala community.
10. What is the prudential reason behind power sharing.
OR
Why power sharing is good for democracies?
Ans. It reduces the possibility of conflict between social groups.

FEDERALISM
11. Why was States Reorganization Commission formed?
Ans. States Reorganization Commission was formed in 1954 to recommend creation of States
on the linguistic basis.
12. How do the Central and State govts. enjoy their power in federal system?
Ans. Under the unitary system, either there is only one level of government or the subunits are
subordinate to the central government whereas in federal system, power is distributed between
centre and state.
13. In which list of the Indian Constitution does education come? Why?
Ans. Education comes under concurrent list so that both the centre and the states can legislate
on any aspect of education.
14. How many seats are reserved for women in the local bodies in India?
Ans. At least one-third of the seats are reserved for women in the local bodies in India.
15. What other factors besides politics keep the federations united?
Ans. Besides politics other factors that keep federations united are:
(i) Power sharing arrangements between the central and state governments
(ii) Independent role of judiciary
(ill) Language ethnicity
(iv) Response to conflicting claims and
(v) Active participation of the people. (any two)
16. What is the official post for the chairperson of a municipal corporation?
Ans. Mayor is the official post for the chairperson of a municipal corporation.
17. What status has been given to Hindi by the Constitution of India?
Ans. Official language of the country.
18. Which subjects are included in the Union List?
Ans. Defence of the nation, foreign affairs, banking, currency, communication.
19. Which local body has a „Mayor‟ as its head?
Ans. Municipal Corporation
20. Define the term federalism.
Ans. Federalism is a system of govt.in which the power is divided between a central authority
and various constituent units of the country. Both these levels of the government the central and
the state—enjoy their powers independent ofeach other.
GENDER RELIGION AND CASTE
21. Define a feminist?
OR
By what term is now the person known who believes in equal rights and opportunities for
women.
Ans. Feminist: A person who believes in equal rights and opportunities for all human beings.

POLITICAL PARTIES
22. Why is one party political system not considered a good democratic system?
Ans. Because one party system has no democratic option.
23. Why did India adopt multi-party system?
Ans. India adopted multi-party system because:
A. India is a large country and has social and geographical diverges.
B. It is easy to absorb different social and geographical diversities in a multi-party
systems.
23. Name the alliance formed by the Congress Party.
Ans. United Progressive Alliance (UPA)
24. Which party was the principal opposition party in Lok Sabha in 2004?
Ans. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
25. Name any one political party that has national level political organization but not
recognized as the national political party.
Ans. Samajwadi Party/Samata Party/Rashtriya Janata Dal.
26. What is meant by „Political Party‟?
Ans. A political party is a group of people come together to contest elections to hold power in
the government.
27. What is the guiding philosophy of Bharatiya Janata Party?
Ans. A. Cultural nationalism
B. India's ancient culture and values
28. What is the requirement laid down by the Election Commission for a political party to be
recognized as a ‟State Party'?
Ans. A party that secures at least six percent of the total votes in an election to the Legislative
Assembly of a state and wins at least two seats is recognized as a state party.
29. Name any two regional parties of West Bengal.
Ans. Two regional parties of West Bengal are:
A. Marxist Forward Bloc
B. Trinamool Congress
30. If all the decisions of a political party are made by a single family and all other
members are neglected, then what challenge is being faced by that party?
Ans. Challenge of dynastic succession.

OUTCOMES OF DEMOCRACY
31. What is meant by economic inequality?
Ans. It refers to disparities in the distribution of economic assets and income.
32. In which area does democracy fail to achieve the same results as in dictatorship?
Ans. Economic development.
33. Which form of government is better- democratic or non-democratic?
Ans. Democratic government is better.
34. What is meant by transparency?
Ans. To examine the process of decision-making in a democracy is known as transparency.
35. Why is democratic government better than other alternatives?
Ans.A.It promotes equality among citizens.
B. It enhances the dignity of the individual.
36. Which form of government is considered the best?
Ans. Democratic form of government.
37. How does democracy produce an accountable government?
Ans. Democratic form of government.
38. What is meant by transparency?
Ans. Right or means to examine the process of decision-making is called transparency.
39. Which form of government is considered the best?
Ans. Democratic form of government is considered the best as it enhances dignity of
theindividual by giving every person equal treatment.
Short Answer type Questions
POWER SHARING
1. “Sharing of powers makes a country more powerful and united.” Do you agree with this
statement and why?
OR
“Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy". Justify this statement with three suitable points.
OR
How far do you agree with the statement that power sharing is keeping with the
“Spirit" of democracy?
Ans. Power sharing keeps up with the „Spirit‟ of Democracy as:
a. Power sharing ensures that all people have stake in government.
b. Power sharing ensures maximum participation. It upholds the concept of
people‟s rule. It always brings better outcomes in democracy. It ensures the
political stability in democracy.
c. Power sharing accommodates diverse groups. It helps to reduce the possibility of
conflict between social groups.
2. Sharing of powers makes a country more powerful and united‟. Justify the
statement.
Ans. Sharing of power makes a country more powerful and united because of the following
reasons.
(i) Power sharing ensures that all people have stake in government.
(ii) Power sharing ensures maximum participation. It upholds the concept of people‟s rule. It
always brings better outcomes in democracy. It ensures the political stability in democracy.
(iii) Power sharing accommodates diverse groups. It helps to reduce the possibility of
conflict between social groups.
3. Describe any three „majoritarian measures‟ taken by the Sri Lankan Government to establish
Sinhala supremacy.
Ans. The following are the majoritarian measures adopted by the Sri Lankan government to
establish Sinhala supremacy.
(a) In the year 1956, an act was passed, which established Sinhala as the official
language to be used in Sri Lanka disregarding the minority group of Tamils. The passing of this
act created a feeling of alienation among the minority group, i.e.
Sri Lankan Tamils and they started to feel left-out from the society.
(b) The government then started adopting and formulating government policies that
favoured the Sinhala people in govt jobs and for university positions,which made the Sri Lankan
Tamils feel ousted.
(c) The Sri Lankan Government further proclaimed that they shall foster and protectonly
Buddhism as their Sate religion and refused to cater to any other religion
disregarding the religion of Sri Lankan Tamils.
4.How can power be shared among governments at different levels? Explain.
OR
Explain the vertical division of power giving example from India.
Ans : Vertical division of power: Vertical division of power means sharing of power among
governments at different levels.
In India, there are three levels of the government:
a. For the entire country:
Central Government/Union Government.
b. At the provincial level:
State Governments.
c. At the local level (i.e., rural and urban): Local self governments like panchayats
and municipal councils.
5. Describe any three majoritarian measures adopted by the Sri Lankan Government to
establish Sinhala supremacy.
OR
Describe any three provisions of the Act which was passed in Sri Lanka in 1956 to
establish Sinhala supremacy.
OR
Why did the Sri Lankan Tamils feel alienated in spite of their long stay in Sri
Lanka?
OR
Explain three measures taken by Sri Lanka, according to an Act passed in1956.
OR
Which three provisions of the Act passed in Sri Lanka in 1956 established Sinhala
supremacy?
OR
Why Sri Lankan Tamils felt alienated?
OR
What were the reasons for the alienation of Sri Lankan Tamils? What was the effect
of this on the country?
Ans. Sri Lankan Tamils felt alienated because:
1. Government adopted majoritarian measure to establish Sinhala Supremacy. In 1956, an Act
was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language thus
disregarding Tamil.
2. The governments followed preferential politics that favoured Sinhala applicants
for university positions and government jobs.
3. A new Constitution stipulated that the state shall protect and foster Buddhism.
4. Sri Lankan Tamils felt that none of the major political parties led by the Buddhist
Sinhalaleaders were sensitive to their language and culture.
5. As a result, the relations between the Sinhala and Tamil communities strained
overtime and it soon turned into a Civil War.
6. Compare the different ways in which the Belgians and the Sri Lankans have dealt
with the problem of cultural diversity.
Ans. The Belgian leaders recognised the existence of regional and cultural diversities.
A. They amended their Constitution four times so as to work out an innovative
arrangement that would enable everyone to live together in peace and harmony,
i.e., there was sharing of power between the Dutch and the French both in the
Central Government, State Government and Community Government. They
followed a policy of accommodation.
B. This helped to avoid civic strife and division of the country on linguistic lines.
C. On the other hand, the Sinhalese who were in majority in Sri Lanka as compared
to the Tamils followed a policy of majoritarianism and adopted a series of
measures to stablish Sinhala Supremacy by passing an Act of 1956. These
measures alienated the Tamils leading to civic strife between the two communities.
7. Give reasons why power sharing is desirable.
OR
Why power sharing is necessary in democracy? Explain.
OR
Write one prudential and one moral reason for power sharing.
OR
Why is power sharing desirable? Explain moral reasons in this regard.
OR
Why power sharing is desirable? Explain giving any three prudential reasons.
Power sharing is desirable in democracy because:
(i) Prudential reasons:
(a) It helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups. Since
social conflict often leads to violence and political instability.
(b) It is a good way to ensure the stability of political order.
(c) Imposing the will of majority community over others may look like an attractive
option in the short run. but in the long run it undermines the unity of the nation.
(ii) Moral reasons:
(a) Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy. A democratic rule involves
sharing power with those affected by its exercise and who have to live with its effect.
(b) People have a right to be consulted on how they are to be governed.
(c) A legitimate government is one where citizens through participation, acquire a
stake in the system.
FEDERALISM
12. How is sharing of power between the Union and the State Governments basic to
thestructure of the Constitution of India? Explain.
Ans. The power sharing arrangement in our country is mainly based on the quasifederalnature
of the federation. The constitution, therefore, clearly provides a three-folddistribution of
legislative powers between the union government and the stategovernment.
These folds are:
(a) Union List: Union List is the first fold of the three List system. It includes subjects
of national importance because we need a uniform policy on the Union List subjects throughout
the country.
The Parliament is solely empowered to enact laws on the Union List subjects.
Defence, atomic energy, foreign affairs, railways, banking, posts and telegraphs are the
important Union List subjects.
(b) State List: State List is the second fold of the three-fold division. This list contains
subjects of state and local importance such as police, trade and commerce,
agriculture and irrigation. The state legislature alone can make laws relating to
the subjects mentioned in the State List.
(c) Concurrent List: This list constitutes the third fold of the List system.The Concurrent list
includes subjects of common interest to both, the Union govt. as well as the State government,
such as education, forests, trade unions, marriages,adoption and succession. Both the Union as
well as the State govts can make laws on the Concurrent List. If their laws conflict with each
other, the law made by the Union Government will prevail.
13. Describe any three provisions of amendment made in Indian constitution in 1992 for making.
„Three-Tier' government more effective and powerful.
Ans. a. Now it is constitutionally mandatory to hold regular elections to local govt. bodies.
b. Seats are reserved in the elected bodies and the executive heads of these
institutions for the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward
Classes.
c. At least one-third of all positions are reserved for women.
d. An independent institution called the State Election Commission has been
created in each state to conduct panchayat and municipal elections.
e. The state governments are required to share some powers and revenue with
local government bodies.
14. “India has a large cultural, regional and religious diversity. But there is unity among
people”. What factors are responsible for this? Elaborate.
Ans.
a. Right to equality.
b. No discrimination on the basis of caste, creed, region or religion.
c. SCs & STs have some seats reserved and do get representation.
d. Right to freedom of religion and cultural and educational rights.
15. Explain the factors that make federal government in India so attractive.
Ans. a. Mobilization
b. Administrative knowledge of the people at all the levels.
c. Efficacy to solve all kinds of issues at respective levels.
16. Differentiate between Gram Sabha and Gram Panchayat.
Ans. Gram Panchayat is a council consisting of several ward members often called panch and a
head or Sarpanch. It is the decision making body for the village. ThePanchayat works under the
overall supervision of the gram sabha. All the voters in the village are its members.
17. What are the three lists given in the Constitution?
OR
Describe the three-fold distribution of legislative power between the Union
Government and State Governments of India.
Ans. The three-fold distribution of legislative powers:
a. Union list: Union lists consist of 97 subjects. It includes subjects of national
importance such as defence of the country, foreign affairs, banking,
communication and currency.
b. State list: State list consists of 66 subjects. It contains subjects of state and local
importance such as police, trade, commerce, agriculture and irrigation.
c. Concurrent list: Concurrent list consist of 47 subjects It includes subjects of
common interest to both such as education, forest, trade unions, marriage,
adoption and succession.
18. Do you take decentralisation as means to minimise the conflicts?
OR
Describe the significance of decentralisation.
Ans. Importance of Decentralisation:
a. It helps in the settlement of a large number of problems and issues at the local level.
b. It provides a platform for the direct participation of people in decision-making.
c. In another way, decentralization in the form of „local self government‟ is the best
way to realize principles of Democracy.

Gender Religion and caste

19.Describe any three factors that are responsible for breaking down of caste system in India.
Ans. The following are the factors responsible for the breaking down of the caste systemin India.
(a) Social and economic development.
(b) Urbanization.
(c) Occupational mobility.
(d) Growth of literacy and education.
(e) The Constitution of India prohibited any caste-based discrimination.
(f) Constitutional prohibition of untouchability. (any three)
20. "Secularism is not an ideology of some political parties or persons, but it is one of the
foundations of our country.” Examine the statement.
Ans. a. This idea constitutes one of the foundations of our country. Communalism should not be
seen as a threat to some people in India. It threatens the very idea of India.
b. A secular constitution like ours is necessary but not sufficient to combat
communalism. Communal prejudices and propaganda need to be countered in
everyday life and religion-based mobilization needs to be countered in the area of politics.
c. There is no official religion for the Indian state. The constitution provides to all
individuals and communities freedom to profess, practice and propagate any religion.
d. The Constitution prohibits discrimination on ground of religion.
21. Define communalism. Explain any three forms of Communalism in the Indian
Politics.
Ans. Communalism is a situation when beliefs of one religion are presented as superior to those
of other religions. When the demands of one religious group are formed in opposition to another
and when state power is used to establish domination of one religious group over the rest.
Various forms of communalism in politics:
a. The most common expression of communalism is in every day beliefs.
b. A communal mind often leads to a quest for political dominance of one‟s own
religious community.
c. Political mobilisation on religious lines is another frequent form of communalism.
This involves the use of sacred symbols, religious leaders, emotional appeals
and plan fear.
22. Suggest any two measures to check casteism in India.
Ans. The following are the two measures to check casteism in India.
(i) Spread of education: Education upgrades one‟s level of thinking and helps in eradicating the
misconceptions of one‟s mind. All possible steps should be taken
to educate the masses.
(ii) Economic equality: Inequality in the economic life creates the feeling of
superiority and inferiority among the members of different caste groups. Steps
need to be taken to maintain economic equality of all castes.
(iii)Abolition of Reservation Policy: Reservation in government job, education and other sectors
creates conflicting attitude among the members of two different castes. When the people of
higher castes having adequate educational
qualification are deprived of all facilities, they revolt against the lower caste people.
(iv)Political reforms: Political leaders and parties based on caste should be banned
from the political horizon.
(v) The name and aim of educational institutions referring to castes need to be given up. (any
two)
23. How can religion be used in politics in a positive manner? Express your view
point.
Ans. Politics and religion can be a deadly combination if not used wisely. It should be
for the good of the people rather than used as a weapon to settle scores. Religion
can be used in politics in a positive manner in the following ways.
(i) Politics should be guided by the ethics and values of religion.
(ii) We should raise our demands as a religious community but not at the cost of
other religions.
(iii) Political leaders should also ensure that religion is not used as a medium of
oppression and discrimination. They should have equal response to different
religious conflicts or demands.
24. Is the caste system coining to an end in India? Give arguments in support of your answer.
Ans. No, I do not think that the caste system is coming to an end in India. From time
immemorial, the caste system has been an inseparable part of Indian society and has been
deeply rooted in our culture. It is entrenched in the society and brings about discrimination.
Even though a number of government policies have been
implemented, the caste system has not been completely eradicated.
The following are the instances to support this argument.
(а) Even though the constitution provides for various provisions for marrying outside
the caste, most people in India still marry in their caste.
(b) Citizens of the country, while casting their votes, usually vote for a candidate of
their own caste, rather than any other caste irrespective of the credibility of the
candidate.
(c) Political parties keep in mind the caste composition of the electorate before
choosing a candidate to represent their party so as to get necessary support for
benefiting their election spree.
(d) Untouchability still has not completely eradicated from the Indian society even
though the constitution prohibits any kind of untouchability.
25. Suppose a politician seeks your vote on the religious ground. Why is his act
considered against the norms of democracy? Explain.
Ans. His act is against the spirit of democracy as the said politician is not working as per the
Constitution.
a. It also exploits the social difference.
b. It may create social discard and may lead to social division.
c. It is also biased attitude and neglects the principle of equality.
26. “The Government of India gives holidays for the festivals of most of the religions.” Why is it
so? Give your view point.
Ans. It is so because:
a. India is a secular state, there is no official religion in our country.
b. The Constitution provides freedom to all to profess, practice and propagate any
religion or not to follow any.
c. The Constitution prohibits discrimination on the grounds of religion.
27. Assess the influences of politics on caste system.
Ans. Influence of politics on Caste:
a. Each caste group tries to become bigger by incorporating within it sub-castes.
b. Various caste groups are required to enter into a coalition with other caste or
communities.
c. New kinds of caste groups have entered politics like „backward‟ and „forward‟
castes.
d. Politics in caste has allowed many disadvantaged caste groups to demand heir share of
power.
Caste politics has helped the Dalits and OBCs to gain better access to decision-
making.
28. What is sexual division of labour? Mention the main demands of the worldwide women‟s
agitations.
Ans. Sexual division of labour means division of work on the basis of the gender
difference and according to this concept all house work and responsibility of bringing
up children is women‟s work.
Women all over the world have been demanding:
a. Equal voting rights.
b. Enhancement of political and legal status of women.
c. Improvement of educational and career opportunities for women.
29. What is communalism? How is communalism a hindrance in the functioning of our
democracy? Explain.
Ans. Communalism: When beliefs of one religion are presented as superior to those of other
religions, when the demands of one religious group are formed in opposition to another and
when state power is used to establish domination of one religious group over the rest, we call it
as communalism.
Communalism is a hindrance in the functioning of our democracy as:
a. Communalism leads to the belief that people belonging to different religions
cannot live as equal citizens within one nation. Either, one of them fias to dominate the lest or
they have to form different nation.
b. Any attempt to bring all followers of one religion together in context other than
religion is bound to suppress many voices within that community.
30. How are religious differences expressed in politics?
Ans. The religious differences are often expressed in the field of politics, i.e.
a. Gandhiji used to say that religion can never be separated from politics, what he
meant by religion was not any particular religion like Hinduism or Islam, but moral
values that inform all religions. He believed that politics must be guided by ethics
drawn from religion.
b. Human right groups in our country have argued that most of the victims of
communal riots in our country are people from religious minorities. They have
demanded that the government take special steps to protect religious minorities.
c. Women‟s movement has agreed that family laws of all religions discriminate
against women, so they have demanded that government should change these
laws to make them more equitable.
31. How does caste get politicised? Give three points.
Ans. a. Each caste group tries to become bigger by incorporating within its neighbouring castes
or sub-castes which were earlier excluded from it.
b. Various caste groups are required to enter into a coalition with other castes or
communities and thus enter into a dialogue and negotiation.
c. New kinds of caste groups have come up in the political area like „backward‟ and
'forward‟ caste groups.

POLITICAL PARTIES
32. What is the role of the opposition party in a democracy?
OR
Explain three functions of opposition political parties.
Ans. Those parties that lose elections play the role of opposition to the parties in power.
The role played by the opposition is:
• It gives its own opinion which may oppose the ruling party.
• The opposition party mobilises opposition to the government.
• It puts its different views in the parliament and criticises the government for its
failures or wrong policies.
• By doing this, it can keep a check on the ruling party, which is made to move on
track.
33. What is meant by a „national political party‟? State the conditions required to be a national
political party.
Ans. National political party have units in the various states, they follow the same policies,
programmes and strategy that is decided at the national level.
Conditions required:
a. A party that secures at least 6% of the total votes in general elections of Lok
Sabha or assembly elections in four states.
b. Wins at least 4 seats in Lok Sabha.
34. Which three challenges do you feel are being faced by political parties in India ? Give your
Opinion.
Ans. The three challenges faced by political parties in India are:
a. Lack of internal democracy.
b. Challenge of dynastic succession.
c. Growing role of money and muscle power.
d. Often parties do not seem to offer a meaningful choice to the voters.
35. What is a multi-party system? Why has India adopted a multi-party system?
Explain.
Ans. Multi-party system: If several parties compete for power and more than two parties have a
reasonable chance of coming to power either on their own strength or in alliance with others, we
call it a multiparty system.
India adopted a Multi-party system because:
a. There is social and geographical diversity in India.
b. India is such a large country which is not easily absorbed by two or three parties.
c. The system allows a variety of interests and opinions to enjoy political representation.
36. State the conditions as laid down by the Election Commission to recognize a „state party
and „national party‟.
Ans. The difference between a state and a national party can be identified as follows:
a. In a state party, the party members aim to highlight the regional interests. On the
other hand, a national party gives due importance to national interests.
b. A state party can contest in elections only in a particular state, whereas a national party can
contest in elections all across the country.
c. Example: BJP and Congress are national parties, whereas Akali Dal and
Trinamool Congress are state level parties.
37. Name the national political party which espouses secularism and welfare of weaker sections
and minorities. Mention any four features of that party.
Ans. The national political party which espouses secularism and welfare of weaker sections and
minorities is the Indian National Congress.
Four features of this party are listed below:
a. Founded in 1885.
b. Dominated Indian politics, both at the national and state levels, for several
decades after India‟s independence.
c. Ruling party at the centre till 1977 and then from 1980 to 1989. After 1989, its
support declined.
d. A centrist party (neither rightist nor leftist) in its ideological orientation.
38. The Bahujan Samaj Party stands for what cause?
Ans. Securing the interest of the oppressed people.
OUTCOMES OF DEMOCRACY
40. Establish the relationship between democracy and development.
OR
Explain the relationship between democracy and development.
Ans. Relationship between democracy and development are:
a. Democracies are expected to produce development.
b. Development depends upon many factors, i.e., size of population, global
situation, cooperation from other countries, etc. In democracies, time is taken on
discussion and reaching at a decision. So, it is slow, but it is not unjust or inappropriate.
41. “Democratic government is legitimate government.” Support the statement with
arguments.
OR
Why is democratic government known as legitimate government?
Ans. a. A democratic government is called legitimate government because it is people‟s own
government .
b. It maybe slow, less efficient and not very responsive and clean, but it is people‟s
government .
c. There is an overwhelming support for the idea of democracy all over the world.
People of South Asia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan and Nepal have no
doubt about the suitability of democracy for their own country.
d. People wish to be ruled by representatives elected by them. Democracy‟s ability to generate
its own support makes it more legitimate.
42. “Democracy accommodates social diversities”. Support the statement with
examples.
Ans. “Democracy accommodates social diversities”:
a. Democracies develop a procedure to conduct their competition. This reduces the possibility of
these tensions becoming explosive or violent.
b. No society can fully and permanently resolve conflicts among different groups.
But we can certainly learn to respect these differences and can evolve a mechanism to
negotiate these differences.
c. Ability to handle social differences, divisions and conflicts is thus a definite plus point of
democratic regimes.
d. Example: Belgium has successfully negotiated differences among its ethnic
population. This reduces the possibility of tensions.
43. “A public expression of dissatisfaction with democracy shows the success of
democratic project.” Justify the statement.
Ans. “A public expression of dissatisfaction with democracy shows the success of
democratic project” as:
a. It shows that people have developed awareness and the ability to expect.
b. People look critically at power holders. They want to make democracy better.
c. They come up with expressions and complaints.
d. They value their democratic rights.
44. What are the two conditions to accommodate social diversities in a democracy?
Mention any one exception to this.
Ans.
a. It is necessary to understand that democracy is not simply rule by majority. The majority
always needs to work with minority so that governments function to
represent the general view.
b. It is also necessary that rule by majority does not become rule by majority
community in terms of religion or race or linguistic group.
The exception is Sri Lanka where majoritarianism followed.
45. “Democracy is seen to be good in principle but felt to be not so good in practice.” Justify the
statement.
Ans. Democracy is seen to be good in principles but not in practice because of the following
reasons:
a. The decision-making process in democracy is time taking, whereby justice
delayed is justice denied.
b. The tyranny of the majority overrides the will of the minority.
c. Corruption and red-tapism dominates the functioning of democracies.
d. An illiterate and uninformed electorate fails to give itself a legitimate and
accountable government.
e. The role of charismatic leaders and dynastic politics dominates political cultures.
46. What outcomes can one reasonably expect of democracies?
Ans. The outcomes one can reasonably expect of the democracy are:
a. In the political sphere – Right to vote, right to contest.
b. In the economic sphere – minimised economic inequalities.
c. In the social sphere – Equal protection to women. SCs, STs and OBCs.
47. How does a democracy produce an accountable, responsive and legitimate
government?
Ans. A democracy produces an accountable, responsive and legitimate government as:
a. People have a right to choose their rulers and have control over the rulers.
b. Whenever possible and necessary, they should participate in decision-making on
issues that affect them all.
c. Democracy produces a government which is accountable to the citizens.
d. Democracy is based on the idea of liberation and negotiation.
e. Decision-making is based on norms and procedures and its transparency.

Power Sharing
LONG TYPE ANSWER QUESTIONS
1. Compare the situation of Belgium and Sri Lanka considering their location, size
and cultural aspects?
19. How majoritarianism has increased the feeling of alienation among the Sri Lankan
Tamils? Explain.
Ans. Sri Lankan Tamils felt alienated because:
1. Government adopted majoritarian measure to establish Sinhala Supremacy. In 1956, an Act
was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only, official language thus
disregarding Tamil.
2. The governments followed preferential politics that favoured Sinhala applicants
for university positions and govt.jobs.
3. A new Constitution stipulated that the state shall protect and foster Buddhism.
4. Sri Lankan Tamils felt that none of the major political parties led by the Buddhist
Sinhala leaders were sensitive to their language and culture.
5. As a result, the relations between the Sinhala and Tamil communities strained
overtime and it soon turned into a Civil War.
20. Explain how Belgium was able to solve its ethnic problem.
OR
Explain the power sharing arrangement in Belgium.
OR
State the main elements of the power sharing model evolved in Belgium.
Ans. The main elements of the power-sharing model evolved in Belgium were:
1. 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.
2. Many powers of the Central Government have been given to State Governments of the two
regions of the country. The State Governments are not subordinated to the Central Government.
3. Brussels had a separate government in which both the communities have equal
representation. The French- speaking people accepted equal representation in
Brussels because the Dutch speaking community has accepted equal representation in the
Central Government.
4. Apart from the central and the state government, there is a third kind of
government called the Community Govt.
5. This community government is elected by people belonging to one language
community—Dutch, French and German-speaking. This government has the power regarding
cultural, educational and language related issue.

FEDERALISM
6. Explain any five provisions of the Constitutional Amendment of 1992 that
strengthened the third tier of government in India.
Ans. The Constitution was amended in 1992 to make the third tier of democracy more powerful
and effective.
A. Now it is mandatory to hold regular elections to local government bodies.
B. Seats are reserved in the elected bodies and the executive heads of these
institutions for SC, ST and OBCs.
C. At least l/3rd of all positions and seats are reserved for women.
D. An independent institution called State Election Commission has been created in
each state to conduct panchayat and municipal elections.
E. The State Governments are required to share some powers and revenue with
local government bodies. The nature of sharing varies from state to state.
7. Explain any five key features of federalism.
OR
Describe the main features of federalism.
OR
Enlist any five features of federalism.
OR
Mention any five main features which makes India a federal country.
Ans. Main Features of Federalism:
A. There are two or more levels of government. India has three levels.
B. Each level of government has its own jurisdiction in matters of legislation,
taxation and administration even though they govern the same citizens.
C. Power and functions of each tier of government is specified and guaranteed by Constitution.
D.The Supreme Court has been given power to settle disputes between different
levels of governments.
E. Fundamental provisions of the Constitution cannot be altered by any‟ one level of
government. It applies to India also.
F. Sources of revenue between different levels is specified by the Constitution.
G. There is mutual trust and agreement between the government at different levels.
8. Explain five changes towards decentralisation brought in the Constitution after the
Amendments made in 1992.
OR
What is the meaning of decentralisation? Explain any four provisions that have been
made towards decentralisation in India after the Constitutional Amendment in 1992.
OR
Which five provisions of the Constitutional Amendment of 1992 strengthen the third
tier of democracy in India? Explain.
OR
Explain any four provisions that have been made towards decentralisation in India
after the Constitutional Amendment in 1992?
OR
What is meant by "decentralisation of powers”? Explain the importance of local self govt in the
light of decentralization.
OR
How has the third tier of government in our country been made more effective and
powerful by the constitutional amendment of 1992?
OR
Describe any four Constitutional steps taken in 1992 towards decentralisation in
India.
Ans. Decentralisation: When power is taken from 'Central and State Governments and is given
to the local government, it is called decentralisation. The Constitution was amended in 1992 to
make the third tier of democracy more powerful and effective.Provisions of the Constitutional
Amendment of 1992 are:
A. Now it is mandatory to hold regular elections to local government bodies.
B. Seats are reserved in the elected bodies and the executive heads of these
institutions for SCs. STs and OBCs.
C. At least one-third of all positions are reserved for women.
D. An independent institution called State Election Commission has been created in
each state to conduct panchayat and municipal elections.
E. The state governments are required to share some powers and revenue with
local government bodies.

Gender, Religion, and caste

9. “Women still lag much behind men in India despite some improvements since
independence.” Analyse the statement.
Ans. Gender division refers to the unequal role assigned by the society to men and
women.
Women, on the basis of gender, have always been discriminated against in almost all the
societies of the world including India. The following are the main aspects of life in which women
are discriminated against or disadvantaged in India.
(a) Life at home: The main responsibility of a woman is believed to be that she
should do the housework and bring up children. This is reflected in a sexual
division of labour.
Women do all the work inside the house such as cooking, cleaning, washing
clothes, tailoring, looking after children, etc. and men do all the work outside the
home. It is not that men cannot do house work; they simply think that it is for women to attend to
these jobs.
(b) Life outside the home: In our society, the work of women is not valued and
does not get recognition. For instance, in rural areas and forest regions, they fetch water and
collect fuel. Sometimes they work in the fields. In fact, majority of urban women do some sort of
paid work in addition to domestic labour. But their work is not given due importance in the
society.
(c) Role in public life and politics: Although women constitute half of the humanity,
their role in public life, especially politics, is minimal in most societies.
In our country, women still lag much behind men despite certain improvements
since independence. Ours is still a male-dominated society.
(d) Literacy level: The literacy rate among women is only fifty-four per cent
compared to seventy-six per cent among men.
Similarly, a smaller proportion of
girl students go for higher studies. When we look at school results, girls perform
much better as compared to boys. But they are forced to drop out as their parents
prefer to spend resources on their sons‟ education rather than on their daughters‟.
(e) Not paid properly in public jobs: The proportion of women holding high paid
and valued jobs is still very small. On an average. Indian women work one hour
more than an average man every day. Yet much of her work is not paid and therefore, often not
valued.
(f) Decline in sex ratio: Due to the preference given to male child, the sex ratio has declined in
the country to merely 919 at the national level. It is below 850 or even 800 in some states of
India.
(g) In legislatures: In India, the proportion of women in the legislatures is very low.
For example, the percentage of elected women members in the Lok Sabha has
reached twelve per cent of its total strength for the first time in 2014. Their share even in the
state assemblies is less than five per cent. In this respect, India is in the bottom group of nations
in the world.
Above all, there are reports of various kinds of harassment, exploitation and violence against
women.
All these instances show that women are discriminated against or disadvantaged in
India.
10. How is gender division understood in Indian society? To what extent does political
mobilization on gender basis help to improve women‟s role in public life?
Ans.
A. In Indian society, gender division tends to be understood as natural and
unchangeable. It is based on social expectations and stereotypes.
B. This attitude leads to sexual division of labour. Boys and girls are brought up to
believe that the main responsibility of women is housework and bringing up
children, whereas all the outside works are to be done by men.
C. The result of this division of labour is that though the women constitute almost
half the population, their role in public life in minimal.
D. Political expression and political mobilization on this question helped to improve women‟s
role in public life. We now find women working as scientists, doctors, engineers, teachers, etc.
Now with lot of efforts 33% seats are reserved forwomen in local government bodies.
11. The focus on caste in politics can sometimes give an impression that elections are all about
caste and nothing else. Do you agree? Explain.
Ans. No, I do not agree. The focus on caste in politics can sometimes give an impression that
elections are all about caste and nothing else.
This is far from true because:
A. No parliamentary constituency in the country has a clear majority of one single
caste. So, every candidate and party needs to win the confidence of more than
one caste and community to win elections.
B. No party wins the votes of all the voters of a caste or community. When people say that a
caste is a ‟vote bank‟ of one party, it usually means that alarge proportion of the voters from the
caste vote for the party.
C. Many political parties may put up candidates from the same caste (if that caste is believed to
dominate the electorate in a particular constituency). Some voters have more than one
candidate from their caste while many voters have no candidates from their caste.
D. The ruling party of the sitting MP or MLA frequently lose elections in our country. That could
not have happened if all castes or communities were frozen in their political preferences.
12. Describe any five constitutional provisions that make India a secular.
OR
How does the Constitution of India ensure secularism?
OR
What is the meaning of "Secularism‟'? How does the constitution make India a
secular state? Explain.
OR
The makers of the Indian Constitution chose the model of a secular state for India. Which
constitutional provisions make India a secular state in the light of the above statement?
OR
What is a secular state? How does the Constitution of India ensure that India remains a secular
state? Explain.
OR
What is the meaning of "Secularism1
'? How does the constitution make India a
secular state? Explain.
Ans. Secularism means no special status is given to any religion. It is just not an ideology of
some parties or persons.
A. There is no official religion for the Indian states, unlike the status of Buddhism in
Sri Lanka or that of Islam is Pakistan.
B. The constitution provides freedom to all to protest, practise and propagate any
religion, or not to follow any.
C. The Constitution prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion.
D. The Constitution allows state to intervene in the matters of religion in order to ensure equality
within religious communities. For example, it bans untouchability.
12. “Caste has not still disappeared from contemporary India.” Support thestatement
with suitable examples.
OR
“Caste has not still disappeared from contemporary India”. Do you agree with the statement?
Justify your answer with suitable argument.
Ans. Yes, I agree with the statement. Arguments:
A. Most people marry within their own caste or tribe.
B. Untouchability has not ended despite provisions in the constitution.
C. Effects of centuries of advantages and disadvantages continue to be felt today.
D. A large mass of low caste people‟s till do not have access to education.
E. Caste is continued to be linked to economic status.
(Or any other relevant argument)
Note: Marks will also be awarded, if somebody disagrees and gives suitable
arguments.
13. Describe any five ways in which women in India are still discriminated and
oppressed.
OR
“In our country, women still lag much behind than men despite some improvements since
independence.” Support the statement by giving five reasons.
OR
Explain with five examples that women are still discriminated in India.
OR
How "Women in India still face discrimination and oppression in various ways.” Support the
statement with five examples.
OR
What are the problems faced by Indian women which affect their social status?
Explain any five.
Ans. In our country, women still lag much behind men despite some improvements since
Independence. Women face disadvantage, discrimination and oppression in various ways:
1. The literacy rate among women is only 54 percent as compared with 76 percent
among men.
2. Similarly, a smaller proportion of girl students go for higher studies. Girls are
performing as well as boys in school. But they drop out because parents prefer to
spend their resources for their boys‟ education rather than spending equally on
their sons and daughters.
3. The proportion of women among the highly paid and valued jobs is still very
small. On an average, an Indian woman works one horn- more than an average
man everyday.
4. The Equal Remuneration Act provides that equal wages should be paid to equal
work. However in almost all areas of work, from sports and cinema, to factories
and fields, women are paid less than men, even when both do exactly the same
work.
5. In many parts of India, parents prefer to have sons and find ways to have the girl
child aborted before she is born. Such sex- selective abortion led to a decline in
child sex ratio.
6. Woman face harassment, exploitation and violence on the domestic front.
POLITICAL PARTIES
14. Describe any five major functions of political parties performed in a
democracy.
Ans. In a democracy political parties performed the following major functions:
1. Parties contest elections: In most democracies, elections are fought mainly
among the candidates put up by political parties. Parties select their candidates in
different ways. In India top party leaders choose candidates for contesting elections.
2. Parties put forward different policies and programmes and the voters choose
from them. In a democracy, a large number of similar opinions have to be
grouped together to provide a direction in which policies can be formulated by the
governments. A government is expected to base its policies on the line taken by the Ruling
party.
3. Parties play a decisive role in making laws for a country. Formally laws are
debated and passed in the legislature. But since most of the members belong to
a party, they go by the direction of the party leadership, irrespective of their
person opinions.
4. Parties form and run governments. Parties recruit leaders, train them and then
make them ministers to run the government in the way they want.
5. Those parties that lose in the elections play the role of opposition to the parties in
power by voicing different views and criticising government for its failure or wrong policies.
6. Parties shape public opinion. They raise and highlight issues. Parties sometimes
also launch movements for the resolution ,of problems faced by people. Often
opinions in the society crystallise on the lines parties take.
7. Parties provide people access to government machinery and welfare schemes implemented
by governments.
15. “Political parties are a necessary condition for a democracy." Analyse the statement with
examples.
OR
Why can‟t modern democracies exist without the political parties? Explain any four reasons.
Ans. “Political parties are a necessary condition for a democracy” because:
1. Without political parties, democracies cannot exist.
2. If we do not have political parties; in such a situation every candidate in elections will be
independent.
3. No one will be able to make any promises to the people about any major policy changes.
4. The government may be formed but its utility will remain uncertain.
5. Elected representatives will be accountable to their constituency for what they do in their
locality.
6. But no one will be responsible for how the country will run.
7. The role of opposition party in a democracy necessitates the existence of political parties.
8. As societies become large and complex they also need some agencies to gather
different views on various issues and to present these to the government, that‟s
why political parties are needed.
16. Explain any four problem areas in the working of political parties.
Ans. a. Lack of internal democracy: The first challenge is lack of internal democracy within
parties. Concentration of power in one or few leaders at the top.
b. Dynastic succession: Favour people close to them or even their family members.
In many parties, the top positions are always controlled by members of one
family.
c. Money and muscle power: The third challenge is about growing role of money
and muscle power in parties, especially during elections.
d. Meaningful choice: The fourth challenge is that very often parties do not seem to
offer a meaningful choice to the voters.

OUTCOMES OF DEMOCRACY
17. Democracy stands much superior to any other form of government in promoting
dignity and freedom of the individual”. Justify this statement.
Ans. a. Democracy stand much superior to any other form of government in promoting
dignity and freedom of the individual. The passion for respect and freedom are the basis of
democracy. Democracies throughout the world have recognised this,
at least in principle.
b. This has been achieved in various degrees in various democracies. For societies which have
been built for long on the basis of subordination and domination, it is not a simple matter to
recognize that all individuals are equal.
c. Most societies across the world were historically male dominated societies. Long
struggles by women have created some sensitivity today that respect to and equal treatment of
women are necessary ingredients of a democratic society.
d. In a non-democratic set up. this unacceptability would not have legal basis
because the principle of individual freedom and dignity would not have the legal
and moral force there.
e. Democracy in India has strengthened the claims of the disadvantaged and
discriminated castes for equal status and equal opportunity.
18. Evidence shows that in practice, many democracies did not fulfill the expectations of
producing economic development in the country. Validate the statement with the help of relevant
example.
Ans. a. If we consider all democracies and all dictatorships for the fifty years between
1950 and „2000. dictatorships have slightly higher rate of economic growth.
b. Economic development depends on several factors : country's population size,
global situation, cooperation from other countries, economic priorities adopted by
the country, etc.
c. However, the difference in the rates of economic development between less
developed countries with dictatorships and democracies is negligible.
d. Overall, it cannot be said that democracy is a guarantee of economic
development. But we can expect democracy not to lag behind dictatorships in this respect.
e. With such a significant difference in the rates of economic growth between
countries under dictatorship and democracy, it is better to prefer democracy as it has several
other positive
For example: North Korea has higher rate of economic growth than India.
20. “Democracies lead to peaceful and harmonious life among citizens.” Support the statement
with any three suitable arguments.
Ans. The statement is correct that democracy leads to peaceful and harmonious life.
Arguments for the statement:
a. Democracies accommodate various social divisions.
b. Democracies usually develop a procedure to conduct competitions. This reduces the
possibility of these tensions becoming explosive or violent.
c. No doubt, no society can fully and permanently resolve conflicts among different groups. We
can certainly learn to respect these differences.