Questions & Answers
CBSE - Grade - 8
Subject: Civics
Chapter - 04 - Parliament and the Making of Laws
Types of Questions
MCQ
- In a democracy, the final decision-making power rests with whom?
a) Bureaucrats
b) Judges
c) Elected representatives
d) Military officers
Answer: c) Elected representatives - The Parliament of India is the ________ law-making body.
a) Supreme
b) Secondary
c) Temporary
d) Local
Answer: a) Supreme - Citizens express their choice in a democracy through:
a) Protests
b) Elections
c) Media debates
d) Judicial orders
Answer: b) Elections - People do not govern directly in India because:
a) They are not educated
b) The country is too large
c) The Constitution doesn’t allow it
d) Leaders don’t permit it
Answer: b) The country is too large - The representatives elected by the people are known as:
a) Ministers
b) Citizens
c) Members of Parliament (MPs)
d) Judges
Answer: c) Members of Parliament (MPs) - Which body represents the voices and interests of the people?
a) Courts
b) Parliament
c) Bureaucracy
d) Police
Answer: b) Parliament - Which of these is NOT a main role of Parliament?
a) Select the national government
b) Make laws
c) Control the government
d) Run the judiciary
Answer: d) Run the judiciary - The Parliament of India consists of:
a) Only Rajya Sabha
b) Only Lok Sabha
c) Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha
d) Supreme Court
Answer: c) Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha - The Lok Sabha is also called:
a) Council of States
b) House of the People
c) Upper House
d) Legislative Assembly
Answer: b) House of the People - The Rajya Sabha is also known as:
a) Upper House
b) People’s House
c) Legislative Council
d) National Assembly
Answer: a) Upper House - Which House is directly elected by the people?
a) Rajya Sabha
b) Lok Sabha
c) Both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha
d) None
Answer: b) Lok Sabha - The Prime Minister is elected by:
a) Supreme Court judges
b) The President
c) Members of Parliament from the majority party
d) Governors
Answer: c) Members of Parliament from the majority party - The Council of Ministers is selected by:
a) Speaker of Lok Sabha
b) Prime Minister
c) President of India
d) Rajya Sabha Chairperson
Answer: b) Prime Minister - Who runs the government of India?
a) President alone
b) Prime Minister and Council of Ministers
c) Chief Justice of India
d) Governors
Answer: b) Prime Minister and Council of Ministers - To whom is the government accountable?
a) Police
b) Parliament
c) Media
d) Bureaucracy
Answer: b) Parliament - MPs raise questions and debates in:
a) Parliament
b) Courts
c) Election Commission
d) Municipal offices
Answer: a) Parliament - Question Hour is an important tool to:
a) Frame laws
b) Control the government
c) Elect the Prime Minister
d) Pass the budget
Answer: b) Control the government - One major role of MPs is to highlight:
a) Military needs
b) Their constituency’s problems
c) Judicial decisions
d) International treaties
Answer: b) Their constituency’s problems - Laws in India are introduced in Parliament as:
a) Rules
b) Bills
c) Orders
d) Amendments
Answer: b) Bills - A Bill becomes law only after:
a) Supreme Court approval
b) Presidential assent
c) Governor’s consent
d) Chief Justice’s approval
Answer: b) Presidential assent - The law-making process begins with:
a) Election
b) Introduction of a Bill
c) Court judgment
d) Governor’s speech
Answer: b) Introduction of a Bill - Which of these can demand new laws?
a) Citizens and movements
b) Only Prime Minister
c) Only judges
d) Only police
Answer: a) Citizens and movements - After both Houses pass a Bill, it goes to the:
a) Prime Minister
b) President
c) Supreme Court
d) Election Commission
Answer: b) President - An example of law-making in Parliament is:
a) Laws on environment
b) Election results
c) Judicial review
d) Tax collection by states
Answer: a) Laws on environment - Sometimes laws may be:
a) Unpopular and controversial
b) Permanent forever
c) Never questioned
d) Made only by judges
Answer: a) Unpopular and controversial - In 2005, privatisation of water supply law led to:
a) Approval everywhere
b) Public protests
c) No reaction
d) Judicial ban
Answer: b) Public protests - When people oppose laws, they may:
a) Write petitions
b) Hold rallies
c) Protest
d) All of the above
Answer: d) All of the above - In democracy, criticism of laws is:
a) Harmful
b) Important
c) Useless
d) Illegal
Answer: b) Important - Unpopular laws show that laws can:
a) Never be changed
b) Be fixed forever
c) Be amended with time
d) Be imposed without consent
Answer: c) Be amended with time - Parliament ensures government remains:
a) Silent
b) Independent
c) Transparent and responsible
d) Above criticism
Answer: c) Transparent and responsible - Who highlights the needs of citizens in Parliament?
a) Bureaucrats
b) MPs
c) Judges
d) Governors
Answer: b) MPs - Democracy is dynamic because:
a) It never changes
b) Laws reflect public opinion
c) People don’t participate
d) Rulers decide everything
Answer: b) Laws reflect public opinion - The term “Council of States” refers to:
a) Rajya Sabha
b) Lok Sabha
c) Supreme Court
d) State Assemblies
Answer: a) Rajya Sabha - Representation makes the system more:
a) Exclusive
b) Inclusive and democratic
c) Rigid
d) Authoritarian
Answer: b) Inclusive and democratic - Parliament is described as the:
a) Central body of democracy
b) Judiciary of democracy
c) Police of democracy
d) Religious authority
Answer: a) Central body of democracy - Who forms the national government?
a) Majority party/coalition in Lok Sabha
b) President alone
c) Rajya Sabha members
d) Judges
Answer: a) Majority party/coalition in Lok Sabha - The main purpose of elections is:
a) Entertainment
b) Choosing representatives
c) Collecting taxes
d) Celebrating festivals
Answer: b) Choosing representatives - A controversial law may lead to:
a) Silence
b) People’s protests
c) Permanent acceptance
d) Military rule
Answer: b) People’s protests - Who gives assent to Bills to make them laws?
a) Governor
b) Prime Minister
c) President
d) Chief Justice
Answer: c) President - The three main roles of Parliament are:
a) Law-making, controlling govt, selecting govt
b) Judiciary, media, law-making
c) Policing, law-making, foreign policy
d) Tax collection, judiciary, elections
Answer: a) Law-making, controlling govt, selecting govt - The Lok Sabha represents:
a) States
b) People directly
c) Judiciary
d) Bureaucracy
Answer: b) People directly - The Rajya Sabha represents:
a) Judiciary
b) States
c) Citizens directly
d) Police
Answer: b) States - Why are representatives necessary?
a) To reduce people’s burden
b) To make decisions on behalf of people
c) To replace democracy
d) To silence citizens
Answer: b) To make decisions on behalf of people - Which is an important symbol of accountability?
a) Question Hour
b) Election Commission
c) Police inquiry
d) Media reports
Answer: a) Question Hour - A Bill introduced in Parliament is first:
a) Debated and discussed
b) Enforced directly
c) Sent to President
d) Rejected automatically
Answer: a) Debated and discussed - In a democracy, unpopular laws prove:
a) People have no power
b) Parliament is weak
c) People can demand change
d) Only rulers matter
Answer: c) People can demand change - People’s right to protest ensures:
a) Stability of dictatorship
b) Dynamic democracy
c) Suppression of views
d) Military rule
Answer: b) Dynamic democracy - A Bill becomes law only after passing:
a) Both Houses and President’s assent
b) Only Rajya Sabha
c) Only Lok Sabha
d) Prime Minister’s desk
Answer: a) Both Houses and President’s assent - Parliament is accountable to:
a) President
b) People
c) Judiciary
d) Governors
Answer: b) People - The essence of democracy is that:
a) Power rests with military
b) People rule through representatives
c) Judges make all laws
d) Leaders are permanent
Answer: b) People rule through representatives
Fill in the Blanks
- In a democracy, the final decision-making power rests with ________.
Answer: elected representatives - The Parliament of India is the ________ law-making body.
Answer: supreme - Citizens express their choice in a democracy through ________.
Answer: elections - People do not govern directly in India because the country is too ________.
Answer: large - The elected representatives of the people are called ________.
Answer: Members of Parliament (MPs) - The Lok Sabha is also called the ________.
Answer: House of the People - The Rajya Sabha is also known as the ________.
Answer: Council of States - The House directly elected by the people is the ________.
Answer: Lok Sabha - The ________ is elected by Members of Parliament belonging to the majority party.
Answer: Prime Minister - The Prime Minister selects ministers to form the ________.
Answer: Council of Ministers - The government of India is run by the ________ and the Council of Ministers.
Answer: Prime Minister - The government remains accountable to the ________.
Answer: Parliament - Question Hour is an important tool of ________ control.
Answer: parliamentary - MPs highlight the problems of their ________ in Parliament.
Answer: constituencies - One of the main roles of Parliament is to ________ the national government.
Answer: select - Parliament keeps a check on the ________ of the government.
Answer: functioning - Laws in India are introduced in Parliament as ________.
Answer: Bills - A Bill becomes a law after it receives the ________ assent.
Answer: President’s - Demands for new laws may come from citizens, organisations, or ________.
Answer: movements - After being passed by both Houses, a Bill is sent to the ________.
Answer: President - One example of laws made by Parliament is on ________ protection.
Answer: environment - Sometimes, laws passed by Parliament are ________ or controversial.
Answer: unpopular - The 2005 law on ________ supply led to public protests.
Answer: water - People may organise rallies, write petitions, and express ________ against laws.
Answer: dissent - In a democracy, criticism of laws is ________.
Answer: important - Unpopular laws show that laws can be ________ with time.
Answer: amended - Parliament ensures that the government remains ________ and responsible.
Answer: transparent - Democracy is dynamic because laws reflect ________ opinion.
Answer: public - The Rajya Sabha represents the ________.
Answer: states - Representation ensures that diverse groups and voices are ________ in governance.
Answer: heard - Direct ________ is not possible in large countries like India.
Answer: democracy - People rule through their ________ in a democracy.
Answer: representatives - The Parliament is the ________ body of Indian democracy.
Answer: central - The Lok Sabha is elected directly by the ________.
Answer: people - The party with a majority in the Lok Sabha forms the ________.
Answer: government - The Prime Minister is the head of the ________.
Answer: government - Members of Parliament can ask questions to demand ________ from the government.
Answer: explanations - The President must give assent before a Bill becomes a ________.
Answer: law - The law-making process starts with the introduction of a ________.
Answer: Bill - A Bill is discussed and ________ in Parliament before becoming a law.
Answer: debated - The three main roles of Parliament are: selecting the government, making laws, and ________ the government.
Answer: controlling/guiding - Citizens can demand changes in laws through protests and ________.
Answer: petitions - The essence of democracy is that people are the ________ authority.
Answer: ultimate - People’s protests may lead to laws being ________ or changed.
Answer: reconsidered - Parliament represents the needs, interests, and ________ of the citizens.
Answer: aspirations - The Rajya Sabha is also referred to as the ________ House.
Answer: Upper - The Lok Sabha is also referred to as the ________ House.
Answer: Lower - In a democracy, laws are not fixed forever but can ________.
Answer: change - Representation makes governance more ________ and democratic.
Answer: inclusive - The Parliament plays the most important role in the ________ of laws.
Answer: making
Name the Following
- Name the supreme law-making body of India.
Answer: Parliament - Name the system where people directly participate in decision-making.
Answer: Direct democracy - Name the elected representatives of the people.
Answer: Members of Parliament (MPs) - Name the two Houses of Parliament.
Answer: Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha - Name the House of Parliament that is directly elected by the people.
Answer: Lok Sabha - Name the House of Parliament that represents the states.
Answer: Rajya Sabha - Name the House also called the “House of the People.”
Answer: Lok Sabha - Name the House also called the “Council of States.”
Answer: Rajya Sabha - Name the leader elected by the majority party in Lok Sabha.
Answer: Prime Minister - Name the group of ministers selected by the Prime Minister.
Answer: Council of Ministers - Name the person who gives assent to Bills to make them laws.
Answer: President - Name the session in Parliament where MPs question the government.
Answer: Question Hour - Name the process of creating laws in Parliament.
Answer: Law-making - Name the document introduced in Parliament to propose a law.
Answer: Bill - Name one source from where demands for new laws may arise.
Answer: Citizens / Organisations / Movements - Name the three main functions of Parliament.
Answer: Selecting the national government, controlling/guiding the government, making laws - Name one law example related to environment passed in Parliament.
Answer: Environmental protection laws - Name the law passed in 2005 that allowed privatisation of water supply.
Answer: Water supply privatisation law - Name the method people use to show disagreement with laws.
Answer: Protest / Rallies / Petitions - Name the important role of criticism in a democracy.
Answer: To help Parliament reconsider or amend laws - Name the body that ensures the government is accountable.
Answer: Parliament - Name the House known as the “Upper House.”
Answer: Rajya Sabha - Name the House known as the “Lower House.”
Answer: Lok Sabha - Name the body that highlights the needs and problems of citizens.
Answer: Parliament / MPs - Name the ultimate authority in a democracy.
Answer: People - Name the system of government in which people rule through representatives.
Answer: Representative democracy - Name the institution that makes democracy inclusive and diverse.
Answer: Parliament - Name the leader who heads the government of India.
Answer: Prime Minister - Name the important parliamentary tool used to guide and inform government.
Answer: Debates and discussions - Name the House where the majority party forms the government.
Answer: Lok Sabha - Name the institution responsible for discussing and debating Bills.
Answer: Parliament - Name the stage before a Bill becomes a law.
Answer: Presidential assent - Name the elected body that reflects the will of the people.
Answer: Lok Sabha - Name the part of Parliament that represents states at the national level.
Answer: Rajya Sabha - Name the main institution that makes India a dynamic democracy.
Answer: Parliament - Name the democratic feature shown when people oppose unpopular laws.
Answer: Right to protest - Name the process by which unpopular laws may be changed.
Answer: Amendment - Name the three roles of MPs in Parliament.
Answer: Ask questions, raise debates, highlight people’s problems - Name the example given in NCERT where people opposed a law in 2005.
Answer: Privatisation of water supply - Name the leader who chooses the Council of Ministers.
Answer: Prime Minister - Name the institution to which the government must give explanations.
Answer: Parliament - Name the ultimate power that citizens hold in a democracy.
Answer: Right to vote - Name the tool through which MPs hold the government accountable daily.
Answer: Question Hour - Name the body that guides the government to make better decisions.
Answer: Parliament - Name the institution that ensures transparency in governance.
Answer: Parliament - Name the stage where a Bill is discussed and debated.
Answer: Parliament session - Name the head of the Indian state who signs Bills into laws.
Answer: President - Name the system where decisions are made by elected leaders on behalf of people.
Answer: Representative system - Name the two types of laws that may face opposition.
Answer: Unpopular and controversial laws - Name the democratic principle that makes laws flexible and changeable.
Answer: Public opinion
Answer in One Word
- Who is the ultimate authority in a democracy?
Answer: People - What is the supreme law-making body of India?
Answer: Parliament - Through what process do citizens choose their representatives?
Answer: Elections - Who are the elected representatives in Parliament?
Answer: MPs - Which system of democracy is followed in India?
Answer: Representative - Which House is directly elected by the people?
Answer: Lok Sabha - Which House represents the states?
Answer: Rajya Sabha - Who elects the Prime Minister?
Answer: MPs - Who selects the Council of Ministers?
Answer: Prime Minister - Who gives assent to a Bill?
Answer: President - What is introduced in Parliament to propose a new law?
Answer: Bill - What is the first step of law-making?
Answer: Introduction - What follows the passing of a Bill in both Houses?
Answer: Assent - What is the session called when MPs ask questions?
Answer: Question Hour - Who highlights the needs of their constituencies in Parliament?
Answer: MPs - Who runs the government of India?
Answer: Prime Minister - Who ensures government accountability?
Answer: Parliament - Which House is called the House of the People?
Answer: Lok Sabha - Which House is called the Council of States?
Answer: Rajya Sabha - What ensures transparency in governance?
Answer: Parliament - Which law in 2005 faced public protests?
Answer: Water (privatisation) - What can people write to oppose laws?
Answer: Petitions - What can people organise to show dissent?
Answer: Rallies - What type of laws may not be accepted by citizens?
Answer: Unpopular - What process allows laws to change with time?
Answer: Amendment - What is the democratic right that ensures flexibility of laws?
Answer: Protest - Who is the head of the government in India?
Answer: Prime Minister - What is the Lower House of Parliament called?
Answer: Lok Sabha - What is the Upper House of Parliament called?
Answer: Rajya Sabha - What is the central body of Indian democracy?
Answer: Parliament - What do MPs raise in Parliament to demand accountability?
Answer: Questions - Which tool of Parliament guides government policies?
Answer: Debate - Who signs a Bill into law?
Answer: President - Who chooses the national government?
Answer: Parliament - What ensures inclusiveness in governance?
Answer: Representation - What kind of democracy cannot work in large countries?
Answer: Direct - What reflects public opinion in democracy?
Answer: Laws - What makes democracy dynamic?
Answer: Change - What do people exercise when they vote?
Answer: Choice - What is the term for citizens opposing laws?
Answer: Protest - What ensures government remains responsible?
Answer: Parliament - What ensures diverse groups are heard?
Answer: Representation - Who leads the Council of Ministers?
Answer: Prime Minister - What is the law-making body of India?
Answer: Parliament - What is required for a Bill to become law after Parliament passes it?
Answer: Assent - What is the Lower House also known as?
Answer: Lok Sabha - What is the Upper House also known as?
Answer: Rajya Sabha - What is the chief function of Parliament?
Answer: Law-making - What gives people the right to choose representatives?
Answer: Elections - What is the essence of democracy?
Answer: People
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- Chapter 6 Heat and energy
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- Chapter 8 Propagation of Sound waves
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All Chapters
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- Chapter 2 Chemical Changes and Reactions
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- Chapter 5 Factorisation
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- Chapter 8 Logarithms
- Chapter 9 Triangles
- Chapter 10 Isosceles Triangles
- Chapter 11 Inequalities
- Chapter 12 Midpoint and Its Converse
- Chapter 13 Pythagoras Theorem
- Chapter 14 Rectilinear Figures
- Chapter 15 Construction of Polygons
- Chapter 16 Area Theorems
- Chapter 17 Circle
- Chapter 18 Statistics
- Chapter 19 Mean and Median
- Chapter 20 Area and Perimeter of Plane Figures
- Chapter 21 Solids
- Chapter 22 Trigonometrical Ratios
- Chapter 23 Trigonometrical Ratios of Standard Angles
- Chapter 24 Solutions of Right Triangles
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Ch 7 – Volcanoes
Ch 8 – Earthquakes
Ch 9 – Weathering
Ch 10 – Denudation
Ch 11 – Hydrosphere
Ch 12 – Composition and Structure of the Atmosphere
Ch 13 – Insolation
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Ch 15 – Humidity
Ch 16 – Pollution
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Ch 18 – Effects of Pollution
Ch 19 – Preventive Measures
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Find the Odd Man Out
- Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Parliament, Supreme Court
Answer: Supreme Court – It is the judiciary, not a House of Parliament. - Bill, Debate, Question Hour, Election Commission
Answer: Election Commission – It conducts elections, not part of Parliament’s functioning. - President, Prime Minister, Speaker, Governor
Answer: Governor – The Governor functions at the state level, not in the Union Parliament. - MPs, MLAs, Ministers, Prime Minister
Answer: MLAs – They belong to State Legislatures, not Parliament. - Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Vidhan Sabha, Parliament
Answer: Vidhan Sabha – It is the State Assembly, not part of Union Parliament. - Law-making, Question Hour, Judicial Review, Accountability
Answer: Judicial Review – It is a power of the judiciary, not Parliament. - Petition, Rally, Protest, Election
Answer: Election – It is a process to form government, not a direct protest method. - Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Council of States, House of Commons
Answer: House of Commons – It belongs to UK Parliament, not India. - Prime Minister, Council of Ministers, Speaker, Chief Justice
Answer: Chief Justice – Head of Judiciary, not part of Parliament. - Debate, Bill, Assent, Judgement
Answer: Judgement – It is given by courts, not by Parliament. - Rajya Sabha, Lok Sabha, President, High Court
Answer: High Court – It belongs to the judiciary, not Parliament. - Laws, Petitions, Demonstrations, Protests
Answer: Laws – Made by Parliament, others are ways of dissent. - Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Council of States, State Assembly
Answer: State Assembly – It is not part of Union Parliament. - Bill, Assent, Question Hour, Verdict
Answer: Verdict – Declared by judges, not Parliament. - Prime Minister, President, MPs, Chief Minister
Answer: Chief Minister – Head of a state, not part of Parliament. - Unpopular Laws, Amendments, Protests, Judgements
Answer: Judgements – They belong to judiciary, not Parliament. - Parliament, Elections, Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha
Answer: Elections – A process before Parliament is formed. - Debate, Bill, Election, Question Hour
Answer: Election – Not a parliamentary activity inside the House. - Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Prime Minister, Governor
Answer: Governor – State-level authority, not in Union Parliament. - Parliament, Supreme Court, Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha
Answer: Supreme Court – Judicial body, not legislative. - Bill, Assent, Question Hour, Referendum
Answer: Referendum – Not a process in Indian law-making. - Prime Minister, Cabinet, Council of Ministers, Election Commission
Answer: Election Commission – Independent body, not part of Parliament. - Law-making, Accountability, Petition, Judgement
Answer: Judgement – Judicial work, not parliamentary. - People, MPs, Ministers, Judges
Answer: Judges – Part of judiciary, not Parliament. - Rajya Sabha, Lok Sabha, Council of States, Vidhan Parishad
Answer: Vidhan Parishad – State Legislative Council, not Union Parliament. - Petition, Rally, Amendment, Protest
Answer: Amendment – Formal parliamentary change, not street protest. - Parliament, Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Panchayat
Answer: Panchayat – Local self-government, not Parliament. - Speaker, Prime Minister, MPs, Chief Justice
Answer: Chief Justice – Judicial authority, not in Parliament. - Council of States, House of People, President, Governor
Answer: Governor – State-level authority. - Question Hour, Zero Hour, Judgement, Debate
Answer: Judgement – Court procedure, not parliamentary. - Elections, Accountability, Representation, Judiciary
Answer: Judiciary – Separate wing, not part of Parliament. - Prime Minister, MPs, Ministers, MLAs
Answer: MLAs – State legislators, not MPs. - Petition, Rally, Strike, Bill
Answer: Bill – Parliamentary activity, not public protest. - Rajya Sabha, Lok Sabha, Council of States, House of Lords
Answer: House of Lords – Belongs to UK Parliament. - Speaker, Prime Minister, Chief Justice, President
Answer: Chief Justice – Judiciary, not Parliament. - Protest, Demonstration, Debate, Petition
Answer: Debate – Parliamentary tool, others are public actions. - Parliament, Council of Ministers, President, Supreme Court
Answer: Supreme Court – Judiciary, not legislature. - Laws, Bills, Amendments, Rallies
Answer: Rallies – Public movement, not legislative procedure. - Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Vidhan Sabha, Parliament
Answer: Vidhan Sabha – State legislature. - Prime Minister, Cabinet, Governor, MPs
Answer: Governor – Not part of Parliament. - Question Hour, Zero Hour, Debate, FIR
Answer: FIR – Police report, not Parliament. - Parliament, Elections, Protests, Supreme Court
Answer: Supreme Court – Judiciary, not Parliament. - People, MPs, Judges, Ministers
Answer: Judges – Judiciary, not Parliament. - Law-making, Petition, Accountability, Strike
Answer: Strike – Public action, not parliamentary duty. - Prime Minister, Speaker, President, Chief Minister
Answer: Chief Minister – State head, not Parliament. - Bill, Law, Judgement, Debate
Answer: Judgement – Judicial decision. - Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Supreme Court, President
Answer: Supreme Court – Judicial body. - Election, Representation, Debate, Assent
Answer: Election – Outside Parliament, before MPs join. - Petition, Protest, Rally, Zero Hour
Answer: Zero Hour – Parliamentary session, others are protests. - Parliament, Cabinet, Council of Ministers, High Court
Answer: High Court – Judiciary, not Parliament.
Match the Pair
Set 1
Match Column A with Column B:
Column A:
- Lok Sabha
- Rajya Sabha
- President
- Prime Minister
- Citizens
Column B:
a. Head of the government
b. Directly elected by people
c. Gives assent to laws
d. Ultimate authority in democracy
e. Council of States
Correct Answers:
1 – b
2 – e
3 – c
4 – a
5 – d
Set 2
Match Column A with Column B:
Column A:
- Question Hour
- Bill
- Protest
- Speaker
- Election
Column B:
a. Public demonstration against laws
b. Presides over Lok Sabha
c. Introduction of new law
d. MPs raise questions to government
e. People choose representatives
Correct Answers:
1 – d
2 – c
3 – a
4 – b
5 – e
Set 3
Match Column A with Column B:
Column A:
- Rajya Sabha members
- Lok Sabha members
- Council of Ministers
- Prime Minister
- Majority Party
Column B:
a. Directly elected by citizens
b. Chooses ministers
c. Selected by the PM
d. Forms the government
e. Elected by State Legislatures
Correct Answers:
1 – e
2 – a
3 – c
4 – b
5 – d
Set 4
Match Column A with Column B:
Column A:
- Parliament
- Judiciary
- Governor
- Petition
- Demonstration
Column B:
a. State authority, not Parliament
b. Supreme law-making body
c. A written request by citizens
d. System of courts
e. Public gathering to express dissent
Correct Answers:
1 – b
2 – d
3 – a
4 – c
5 – e
Set 5
Match Column A with Column B:
Column A:
- Law-making
- Assent of President
- Protests
- Representation
- Accountability
Column B:
a. Citizens influencing Parliament
b. People elect MPs
c. One of the main roles of Parliament
d. Government answerable to Parliament
e. A Bill becomes law only after this step
Correct Answers:
1 – c
2 – e
3 – a
4 – b
5 – d
Set 6
Match Column A with Column B:
Column A:
- National Government
- Rajya Sabha
- Lok Sabha
- Vice President
- Speaker
Column B:
a. Chairperson of Rajya Sabha
b. House of the People
c. Formed by majority in Lok Sabha
d. Presiding officer of Lok Sabha
e. Council of States
Correct Answers:
1 – c
2 – e
3 – b
4 – a
5 – d
Set 7
Match Column A with Column B:
Column A:
- 2005 law on water privatisation
- Protest rallies
- Debate in Parliament
- Movements
- Judicial Review
Column B:
a. Citizens expressing opposition
b. Controversial law leading to protests
c. Not a role of Parliament, but of judiciary
d. Formal discussion in Parliament
e. Organised demand for change
Correct Answers:
1 – b
2 – a
3 – d
4 – e
5 – c
Set 8
Match Column A with Column B:
Column A:
- Role of MPs
- Prime Minister
- President
- Judiciary
- Parliament
Column B:
a. Head of State
b. Makes new laws
c. Raise constituency needs
d. Head of government
e. Gives judgements
Correct Answers:
1 – c
2 – d
3 – a
4 – e
5 – b
Set 9
Match Column A with Column B:
Column A:
- Elections
- Citizens
- Unpopular laws
- Amendments
- Democracy
Column B:
a. Reflects people’s will
b. People are ultimate authority
c. Can be protested and changed
d. Process to choose representatives
e. Changes made in laws
Correct Answers:
1 – d
2 – b
3 – c
4 – e
5 – a
Set 10
Match Column A with Column B:
Column A:
- Three roles of Parliament
- Bill
- Council of Ministers
- Lok Sabha majority
- Public criticism
Column B:
a. Select govt, control govt, make laws
b. Basis of forming government
c. Helps Parliament to reconsider laws
d. Introduced in Parliament for discussion
e. Selected by Prime Minister
Correct Answers:
1 – a
2 – d
3 – e
4 – b
5 – c
Short Answer Questions
- What is the supreme law-making body of India?
Answer: The Parliament of India. - Who are the ultimate authority in a democracy?
Answer: The citizens or people. - What is the role of elected representatives in India?
Answer: They make decisions on behalf of the people. - Name the two Houses of the Indian Parliament.
Answer: Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. - Who presides over the Lok Sabha sessions?
Answer: The Speaker. - Who is the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha?
Answer: The Vice President of India. - Who forms the national government in India?
Answer: The majority party or coalition in the Lok Sabha. - Who selects the Council of Ministers?
Answer: The Prime Minister. - What is the main function of Parliament?
Answer: To make laws for the country. - What is a Bill?
Answer: A proposal for a new law introduced in Parliament. - What happens after a Bill is passed by both Houses?
Answer: It is sent to the President for assent. - What is Question Hour?
Answer: A session when MPs ask questions to the government. - What does the Parliament control and guide?
Answer: The functioning of the government. - Why do citizens vote in elections?
Answer: To choose their representatives in Parliament. - What is the role of the Prime Minister?
Answer: Head of the government and leader of the Council of Ministers. - What is the role of the President in law-making?
Answer: Gives assent to Bills passed by Parliament. - What is a controversial law?
Answer: A law not accepted or opposed by people. - Give an example of citizens expressing dissent.
Answer: Petitions, rallies, and protests. - Why is representation important in a democracy?
Answer: It ensures diverse groups and voices are heard. - Why is direct democracy not possible in India?
Answer: Because India is too large for all citizens to govern directly. - What ensures government accountability in Parliament?
Answer: MPs asking questions, debates, and scrutiny of actions. - What is the outcome of a Bill receiving the President’s assent?
Answer: The Bill becomes a law. - Who elects the Prime Minister?
Answer: MPs of the majority party or coalition in Lok Sabha. - What are the three main roles of Parliament?
Answer: Selecting the government, controlling/guiding it, and making laws. - What is a petition?
Answer: A written request by citizens to the government. - How can people influence laws?
Answer: Through protests, petitions, and public opinion. - What is accountability in a democracy?
Answer: The government being answerable to the Parliament and people. - Who highlights the problems of their constituencies in Parliament?
Answer: Members of Parliament (MPs). - What is the role of debates in Parliament?
Answer: To discuss national issues and guide government decisions. - What is the term of the Lok Sabha?
Answer: Five years unless dissolved earlier. - Is the Rajya Sabha a permanent House?
Answer: Yes, it is not dissolved but one-third of members retire every two years. - What is meant by amendments in laws?
Answer: Changes made in existing laws by Parliament. - Why do some laws face public opposition?
Answer: They may be seen as unpopular or controversial. - What is the role of the citizens in a democracy?
Answer: To elect representatives and participate in governance indirectly. - How does Parliament ensure transparency?
Answer: Through Question Hour, debates, and discussions. - Name a tool that helps Parliament check government functioning.
Answer: Question Hour. - What does it mean when a law is unpopular?
Answer: The majority of people do not support it. - Give an example of a controversial law in India.
Answer: The 2005 water privatisation law in some areas. - What is the role of movements in a democracy?
Answer: To demand new laws or changes in existing ones. - What is the significance of representation?
Answer: It ensures all sections of society have a voice in governance. - Who can introduce a Bill in Parliament?
Answer: The government or, occasionally, a private member. - What is a democracy?
Answer: A system where people rule through their representatives. - Why are MPs accountable to citizens?
Answer: Because they are elected by them and can be voted out. - What is the meaning of public criticism of laws?
Answer: Expressing disagreement through petitions, protests, or rallies. - How do citizens participate besides voting?
Answer: By giving feedback, raising demands, and organising movements. - Who approves laws related to states in India?
Answer: Both Houses of Parliament and the President. - What is the function of the Vice President in Parliament?
Answer: Chairperson of Rajya Sabha and presides over its sessions. - What is the importance of Question Hour?
Answer: It helps Parliament keep the government accountable. - What is meant by a permanent House?
Answer: A House that is not dissolved but has members retiring periodically. - How does democracy remain dynamic?
Answer: Laws and policies can change with time and public opinion.
Puzzles
- I am the House directly elected by the people of India.
Answer: Lok Sabha - I am the House that represents the states of India.
Answer: Rajya Sabha - I am the Head of the Government in India.
Answer: Prime Minister - I give assent to Bills passed by Parliament to become laws.
Answer: President - I preside over the sessions of Lok Sabha.
Answer: Speaker - I preside over the sessions of Rajya Sabha.
Answer: Vice President - I am a written proposal for a new law introduced in Parliament.
Answer: Bill - I am a session where MPs ask questions to the government.
Answer: Question Hour - Citizens approach me formally to request changes or express opinions.
Answer: Petition - I am the collective of ministers chosen by the Prime Minister to run the administration.
Answer: Council of Ministers - I am the person elected by MPs of the majority party to lead the government.
Answer: Prime Minister - I am a session of Parliament where laws are debated and discussed.
Answer: Parliamentary Debate - I am the person responsible for maintaining order in Lok Sabha debates.
Answer: Speaker - I am the person responsible for presiding over Rajya Sabha and ensuring its rules are followed.
Answer: Vice President - I am a law that is not accepted by the majority of people.
Answer: Unpopular Law - I am a law that causes disagreement or opposition in the society.
Answer: Controversial Law - I am the House where a party or coalition with majority forms the government.
Answer: Lok Sabha - I am the tool through which Parliament keeps the government accountable.
Answer: Question Hour - I am a written document submitted by citizens to influence law-making.
Answer: Petition - I am the process by which a Bill becomes a law.
Answer: Law-Making Process - I am the collective decision-making body of elected representatives in India.
Answer: Parliament - I am the person who selects ministers to form the Council of Ministers.
Answer: Prime Minister - I am a formal discussion on national issues held in Parliament.
Answer: Debate - I am a law passed by Parliament to meet the demands of citizens or organizations.
Answer: Government Initiative Law - I am a session of Parliament where citizens’ problems can be highlighted by MPs.
Answer: Parliamentary Session - I am a tool used by citizens to protest against a law they disagree with.
Answer: Rally/Protest - I am the term given to the period of five years for which Lok Sabha is elected.
Answer: Term of Lok Sabha - I am the method used by Rajya Sabha members to ensure state representation.
Answer: Election by State Legislative Assemblies - I am the Head of State in India.
Answer: President - I am the process where laws can be amended, repealed, or introduced to reflect public opinion.
Answer: Law Amendment
Difference Between:
- Lok Sabha vs Rajya Sabha
Answer:
- Lok Sabha: Also called the House of the People; members are directly elected by citizens through general elections; forms the government if a party or coalition has a majority; can be dissolved after 5 years or earlier.
- Rajya Sabha: Also called the Council of States; members are elected by State Legislative Assemblies; represents states; is a permanent House, with one-third members retiring every two years.
- Prime Minister vs President
Answer:
- Prime Minister: Head of the Government; selects ministers to form the Council of Ministers; responsible for running administration; accountable to Parliament.
- President: Head of State; gives assent to Bills for them to become law; ensures the Constitution is upheld; acts on advice of the Council of Ministers.
- Bill vs Law
Answer:
- Bill: A written proposal for a new law introduced in Parliament; debated and discussed in both Houses before passing.
- Law: A Bill becomes a law after being passed by both Houses of Parliament and receiving the President’s assent; legally binding on all citizens.
- Question Hour vs Parliamentary Debate
Answer:
- Question Hour: A session where MPs ask questions to the government to ensure transparency and accountability; mainly for checking government functioning.
- Parliamentary Debate: Discussions in both Houses about Bills, policies, and public issues; aims to improve laws and policies through suggestions and amendments.
- Petition vs Protest/Rally
Answer:
- Petition: A written request submitted by citizens to Parliament or government to express demands or objections.
- Protest/Rally: Public gatherings organized by citizens to express dissent or demand changes; usually involves public demonstration or activism.
- Direct Democracy vs Indirect Democracy
Answer:
- Direct Democracy: Citizens make decisions themselves; suitable only for small populations; not feasible in a large country like India.
- Indirect Democracy: Citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf; ensures governance in large countries; also called representative democracy.
- Government Initiative Law vs Citizens’ Demand Law
Answer:
- Government Initiative Law: Proposed and introduced by the government; reflects its policies and priorities.
- Citizens’ Demand Law: Initiated based on public demands, petitions, or movements; reflects citizens’ needs and interests.
- Unpopular Law vs Controversial Law
Answer:
- Unpopular Law: A law that is not accepted or liked by a majority of people but may not create disputes.
- Controversial Law: A law that creates disagreement, debates, or public opposition due to differing opinions or interests.
- Term of Lok Sabha vs Rajya Sabha
Answer:
- Lok Sabha: Elected for a term of 5 years; can be dissolved earlier if the government loses majority.
- Rajya Sabha: Permanent House; one-third members retire every two years; cannot be dissolved.
- Representation in Parliament vs Accountability in Parliament
Answer:
- Representation: MPs represent the people (Lok Sabha) or states (Rajya Sabha); ensures diverse voices are heard in governance.
- Accountability: Parliament ensures government is accountable through Question Hour, debates, discussions, and scrutiny of policies; keeps government actions transparent.
Assertion and Reason
- Each question has two statements:
- Assertion (A)
- Reason (R)
- Choose the correct option:
- Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
- Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
- A is true, but R is false.
- A is false, but R is true.
- A: In a democracy, people are the ultimate authority.
R: People express their choice through elections.
Answer: 1 - A: The Parliament of India has two Houses.
R: They are called Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
Answer: 1 - A: Citizens govern the country directly in India.
R: India practices direct democracy.
Answer: 3 - A: The Lok Sabha is directly elected by the people.
R: It represents the House of the People.
Answer: 1 - A: The Prime Minister is elected directly by citizens.
R: Citizens vote for MPs who then elect the Prime Minister.
Answer: 3 - A: The Rajya Sabha is also called the Council of States.
R: It represents the states of India in the Parliament.
Answer: 1 - A: The Parliament is the supreme law-making body of India.
R: It passes laws only when approved by the Governor.
Answer: 3 - A: The President gives assent to Bills passed by Parliament.
R: A Bill becomes a law only after Presidential assent.
Answer: 1 - A: Question Hour is an important tool of parliamentary control.
R: It allows MPs to ask questions to the government.
Answer: 1 - A: Unpopular laws cannot be changed once passed.
R: Laws are fixed forever in a democracy.
Answer: 3 - A: Parliament controls, guides, and informs the government.
R: MPs raise debates and demand explanations from the government.
Answer: 1 - A: Citizens play no role in law-making.
R: All laws are only made by the Prime Minister.
Answer: 4 - A: Representation in Parliament ensures diverse voices are heard.
R: India is too large for direct participation by all citizens.
Answer: 1 - A: Parliament also functions to select the national government.
R: The majority party in the Lok Sabha forms the government.
Answer: 1 - A: People protest against controversial laws.
R: Protests in a democracy help Parliament reconsider laws.
Answer: 1 - A: Bills can be introduced by the government in Parliament.
R: They are debated and passed before becoming laws.
Answer: 1 - A: The Council of Ministers is selected by the Prime Minister.
R: They are chosen from MPs of the majority party or coalition.
Answer: 1 - A: MPs are accountable to the people.
R: Citizens elect them and can question their decisions.
Answer: 1 - A: The Lok Sabha is also called the Upper House.
R: It represents the states of India.
Answer: 4 - A: Citizens can demand new laws.
R: Movements, petitions, and public opinion can influence Parliament.
Answer: 1 - A: Rajya Sabha members are directly elected by citizens.
R: They are elected by MLAs of State Legislative Assemblies.
Answer: 3 - A: Democracy requires transparency and accountability.
R: Parliament ensures government answers to MPs.
Answer: 1 - A: The Parliament is a place for discussion and debate.
R: MPs discuss national issues and government policies.
Answer: 1 - A: All decisions in a democracy must rest with the people.
R: Citizens elect representatives to take decisions on their behalf.
Answer: 1 - A: Parliament and Supreme Court are the same.
R: Both deal with law-making.
Answer: 3 - A: The Prime Minister is accountable to the Lok Sabha.
R: He can continue in office only with its majority support.
Answer: 1 - A: Rajya Sabha has equal powers with Lok Sabha in all matters.
R: Rajya Sabha cannot remove the government from power.
Answer: 2 - A: Parliament makes new laws for the country.
R: Laws can come from people’s demands or government initiatives.
Answer: 1 - A: Citizens protest against privatisation of water supply in 2005.
R: It was seen as an unpopular and controversial law.
Answer: 1 - A: A democracy is static and unchanging.
R: Laws cannot be amended once made.
Answer: 4 - A: The government must take Parliament’s approval for policies.
R: Parliament represents the people’s will.
Answer: 1 - A: The Speaker is the head of the Rajya Sabha.
R: The Vice President is the Chairperson of Rajya Sabha.
Answer: 3 - A: Lok Sabha members represent the citizens of India.
R: They are directly elected by the people.
Answer: 1 - A: Rajya Sabha can be dissolved like Lok Sabha.
R: Rajya Sabha is a permanent body.
Answer: 3 - A: The final decision-making power in India rests with the Governor.
R: The Governor is part of Parliament.
Answer: 4 - A: Citizens’ voices are important in a democracy.
R: They influence the making and changing of laws.
Answer: 1 - A: Parliament only selects the national government.
R: It does not control or guide the government.
Answer: 3 - A: Unpopular laws can be amended or changed.
R: Parliament is responsive to public opinion.
Answer: 1 - A: MPs highlight the needs of their constituencies in Parliament.
R: This helps government make better decisions.
Answer: 1 - A: The Prime Minister alone can pass a law.
R: Parliament is not required to pass laws.
Answer: 4 - A: The President is part of Parliament.
R: No Bill becomes law without the President’s assent.
Answer: 1 - A: The Parliament of India is bicameral.
R: It consists of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
Answer: 1 - A: In a democracy, criticism of laws is important.
R: It ensures that laws are reconsidered if unpopular.
Answer: 1 - A: Parliament only debates but cannot make laws.
R: Law-making is the role of the judiciary.
Answer: 4 - A: Citizens are central to democracy.
R: They exercise power through their elected representatives.
Answer: 1 - A: Rajya Sabha has 545 members.
R: Lok Sabha has 545 members.
Answer: 3 - A: Movements and petitions influence law-making.
R: They show the demands and opinions of people.
Answer: 1 - A: Parliament ensures the government remains transparent.
R: It requires ministers to answer questions and justify actions.
Answer: 1 - A: The Prime Minister is a member of Rajya Sabha only.
R: A Prime Minister can be from either House.
Answer: 3 - A: Democracy is dynamic.
R: Laws can change with time and public opinion.
Answer: 1
True or False
- India is a democracy where people directly govern the country.
Answer: False - In a democracy, citizens elect representatives to take decisions on their behalf.
Answer: True - The Parliament of India is the supreme law-making body.
Answer: True - The Lok Sabha is also called the House of the People.
Answer: True - The Rajya Sabha is also called the Council of States.
Answer: True - The Supreme Court is a part of the Indian Parliament.
Answer: False - The Lok Sabha is directly elected by the citizens of India.
Answer: True - Rajya Sabha members are directly elected by citizens.
Answer: False - The Prime Minister is chosen by Members of Parliament from the majority party or coalition.
Answer: True - The President of India is not a part of Parliament.
Answer: False - A Bill becomes a law only after the President’s assent.
Answer: True - Question Hour is a time when MPs ask questions to the government.
Answer: True - Judicial Review is a function of Parliament.
Answer: False - Parliament controls, guides, and informs the government.
Answer: True - Citizens cannot demand new laws in a democracy.
Answer: False - Protests, petitions, and rallies are ways citizens express their views.
Answer: True - The Speaker presides over the sessions of the Lok Sabha.
Answer: True - The Vice President is the Chairperson of Rajya Sabha.
Answer: True - The Prime Minister is the Head of the State.
Answer: False - The President is the Head of the State.
Answer: True - The Prime Minister is the Head of the Government.
Answer: True - The Parliament of India is unicameral.
Answer: False - Unpopular laws cannot be changed once passed.
Answer: False - Parliament can amend or reconsider laws if needed.
Answer: True - Citizens are the ultimate authority in a democracy.
Answer: True - Lok Sabha has more members than Rajya Sabha.
Answer: True - The Rajya Sabha is a permanent House and cannot be dissolved.
Answer: True - The Lok Sabha can be dissolved before its term ends.
Answer: True - MPs are accountable to the citizens who elected them.
Answer: True - The Council of Ministers is selected by the Prime Minister.
Answer: True - The Governor is part of the Indian Parliament.
Answer: False - Movements and petitions can influence the making of laws.
Answer: True - Parliament debates issues and passes laws.
Answer: True - Citizens cannot criticise or protest against laws.
Answer: False - Democracy is dynamic and laws can change over time.
Answer: True - The majority party in Rajya Sabha forms the government.
Answer: False - The majority party in Lok Sabha forms the government.
Answer: True - Parliament is responsible for making new laws for the country.
Answer: True - The Judiciary can strike down unconstitutional laws.
Answer: True - The President plays no role in the law-making process.
Answer: False - Citizens participate in democracy only during elections.
Answer: False - Question Hour increases government accountability.
Answer: True - The Speaker is elected from among the members of Lok Sabha.
Answer: True - The Rajya Sabha represents the interests of the states.
Answer: True - The Lok Sabha represents the interests of the judiciary.
Answer: False - Petitions are written requests by citizens to the government.
Answer: True - Parliament also discusses the needs of constituencies through MPs.
Answer: True - The Council of Ministers is not answerable to Parliament.
Answer: False - Parliament ensures transparency in the functioning of the government.
Answer: True - In democracy, laws are made once and never changed.
Answer: False
Long Answer Questions
- Why is India called a democracy?
Answer: India is called a democracy because the ultimate authority rests with the people. Citizens participate in governance indirectly by electing representatives to make decisions on their behalf. This system ensures that the government is accountable to the people. - Explain why direct democracy is not possible in India.
Answer: Direct democracy is not feasible in India due to its large population and vast territory. It is impossible for all citizens to participate in day-to-day decision-making. Therefore, citizens elect representatives to represent their interests in Parliament. - What is the role of citizens in a democracy?
Answer: Citizens participate by voting in elections, raising demands, giving feedback, and organising movements or protests. They influence law-making and hold the government accountable, ensuring that governance reflects the people’s will. - What are the main roles of Parliament?
Answer: Parliament performs three main roles: (1) selecting the national government, (2) controlling, guiding, and informing the government, and (3) making new laws for the country. These roles ensure a balance of power and accountability in governance. - Describe the composition of the Indian Parliament.
Answer: The Indian Parliament is bicameral, consisting of two Houses: the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). The Lok Sabha is directly elected by citizens, while the Rajya Sabha represents states and is elected by State Legislative Assemblies. - Explain the process of selecting the national government.
Answer: The majority party or coalition in the Lok Sabha forms the government. MPs of the majority elect the Prime Minister, who then selects ministers to form the Council of Ministers. This government runs the country while remaining accountable to Parliament. - What is the role of the Prime Minister in India?
Answer: The Prime Minister is the Head of the Government. They lead the Council of Ministers, make executive decisions, and guide the administration. The PM is also responsible for ensuring the government functions in accordance with Parliament’s decisions. - Explain the role of the President in law-making.
Answer: The President is the Head of the State and gives assent to Bills passed by Parliament. A Bill becomes a law only after the President’s approval. This step ensures that the law-making process is complete and constitutional. - What is Question Hour, and why is it important?
Answer: Question Hour is a session in Parliament where MPs ask questions to the government. It ensures transparency, accountability, and scrutiny of government actions. MPs can highlight issues from their constituencies and seek explanations from ministers. - Explain how new laws are made in Parliament.
Answer: Laws begin as Bills, introduced by the government or private members. Bills are discussed, debated, and passed in both Houses. After approval, they are sent to the President for assent. Once the President agrees, the Bill becomes a law. - Why is representation important in a democracy?
Answer: Representation ensures that all sections of society, including minorities and diverse communities, have a voice in governance. MPs consider the needs, interests, and aspirations of citizens while making decisions, making democracy inclusive. - How does Parliament control and guide the government?
Answer: Parliament monitors government functioning through debates, discussions, and Question Hour. MPs ask for explanations, raise concerns, and suggest policies, which guide the government to make informed and responsible decisions. - What are the different ways citizens can influence law-making?
Answer: Citizens influence laws through voting, petitions, rallies, public opinion, and movements. Their participation ensures that the government remains responsive and laws reflect the needs and aspirations of society. - Explain the importance of public criticism in a democracy.
Answer: Public criticism helps Parliament reconsider or amend unpopular laws. Protests, petitions, and rallies are forms of expressing dissent. This ensures that laws remain responsive to the people’s needs and democratic principles are upheld. - Describe the role of Lok Sabha in the Indian Parliament.
Answer: The Lok Sabha is the lower House, directly elected by citizens. It represents the people, forms the government through the majority party, debates bills, and monitors the government. It ensures accountability and reflects public opinion. - Describe the role of Rajya Sabha in the Indian Parliament.
Answer: The Rajya Sabha is the upper House representing states. Members are elected by State Legislative Assemblies. It reviews and debates legislation, suggests amendments, and acts as a check on the government, ensuring states’ interests are represented. - What is meant by an unpopular or controversial law?
Answer: An unpopular law is one that is not widely accepted by citizens. Controversial laws are debated and may face opposition due to differing opinions. In a democracy, such laws can be amended or repealed based on public feedback. - Give an example of a controversial law in India.
Answer: In 2005, a law allowing privatisation of water supply in some areas faced widespread public protests. Citizens organised rallies and submitted petitions, demanding reconsideration of the law. - How are members of Rajya Sabha elected?
Answer: Rajya Sabha members are elected by the MLAs of State Legislative Assemblies using proportional representation. This ensures that states’ interests are represented in the national Parliament. - How does democracy ensure accountability of the government?
Answer: Accountability is ensured through elections, Question Hour, debates, and public feedback. MPs represent citizens, question government decisions, and guide policy, ensuring transparency and responsibility. - Explain the significance of movements and petitions in democracy.
Answer: Movements and petitions allow citizens to express opinions, demand new laws, or seek amendments. They are a way for people to influence governance and hold the government accountable. - Why is Parliament considered the supreme law-making body?
Answer: Parliament has the authority to make, amend, and repeal laws for the entire country. Its decisions reflect the will of the elected representatives and, indirectly, the people. - Explain the term of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
Answer: Lok Sabha has a term of five years but can be dissolved earlier. Rajya Sabha is a permanent House; one-third of its members retire every two years. - What is the role of MPs in raising constituency issues?
Answer: MPs highlight local problems and demands in Parliament. This helps the government make policies that address citizens’ needs effectively. - Explain how a Bill becomes a law.
Answer: A Bill is introduced, debated, and passed by both Houses of Parliament. It is then sent to the President for assent. Upon approval, it becomes a law and is enforced throughout the country. - Why is transparency important in governance?
Answer: Transparency ensures that citizens can monitor government actions, question decisions, and hold officials accountable, maintaining trust in democratic institutions. - Explain the role of the Speaker of Lok Sabha.
Answer: The Speaker presides over Lok Sabha sessions, maintains order, ensures debates are conducted fairly, and oversees legislative procedures. - Explain the role of the Vice President of India.
Answer: The Vice President is the Chairperson of Rajya Sabha and presides over its proceedings, ensuring smooth functioning and adherence to parliamentary rules. - Why are laws dynamic in a democracy?
Answer: Laws are dynamic because they can be amended, repealed, or created based on public opinion, changing needs, and societal progress, ensuring relevance and fairness. - Summarise the process of citizens influencing law-making in India.
Answer: Citizens vote for representatives, participate in movements, submit petitions, and express dissent. Their participation shapes Parliament’s decisions, ensures accountability, and keeps democracy responsive to public needs.
Give Reasons
- Why do citizens elect representatives in a democracy?
Answer: Because direct democracy is not possible in a large country like India, and representatives make decisions on behalf of the people. - Why is Parliament called the supreme law-making body?
Answer: Because it has the authority to make, amend, and repeal laws for the entire country. - Why is the Lok Sabha called the House of the People?
Answer: Because its members are directly elected by citizens and represent their interests. - Why is the Rajya Sabha called the Council of States?
Answer: Because it represents the states of India and its members are elected by State Legislative Assemblies. - Why does the government remain accountable to Parliament?
Answer: Because MPs monitor its actions, ask questions, and debate policies to ensure transparency. - Why do Bills need the President’s assent to become laws?
Answer: Because the President is the Head of State and their assent completes the constitutional law-making process. - Why do MPs ask questions during Question Hour?
Answer: To check government functioning, seek explanations, and ensure accountability. - Why are unpopular or controversial laws opposed by people?
Answer: Because such laws may not reflect public opinion or meet citizens’ needs. - Why are petitions important in a democracy?
Answer: Because they allow citizens to formally request changes or express their views on government decisions. - Why does the Prime Minister select the Council of Ministers?
Answer: Because the Prime Minister is the Head of Government and responsible for running the administration. - Why do citizens organise rallies and movements?
Answer: To express dissent and influence law-making in a democracy. - Why is representation necessary in a large democracy like India?
Answer: To ensure diverse groups and voices are heard in governance. - Why is the Speaker important in Lok Sabha?
Answer: Because the Speaker presides over sessions, maintains order, and ensures proper conduct of debates. - Why is the Vice President the Chairperson of Rajya Sabha?
Answer: Because they oversee the proceedings and ensure smooth functioning of the House. - Why is Question Hour considered an important parliamentary tool?
Answer: Because it increases transparency and holds the government accountable to MPs and citizens. - Why does the Lok Sabha have more members than Rajya Sabha?
Answer: Because it represents the entire population directly, whereas Rajya Sabha represents states. - Why can the Lok Sabha be dissolved before completing its term?
Answer: To allow for fresh elections when the government loses majority or Parliament is unable to function effectively. - Why does the Rajya Sabha continue to function even when Lok Sabha is dissolved?
Answer: Because it is a permanent House, ensuring continuity in legislative processes. - Why is public criticism of laws important?
Answer: Because it helps Parliament reconsider or amend laws to reflect public opinion. - Why are laws in a democracy dynamic?
Answer: Because they can be amended, repealed, or introduced to meet changing needs of society. - Why does Parliament guide the government through debates and discussions?
Answer: To ensure decisions are well-informed and policies reflect public interest. - Why do movements and petitions influence law-making?
Answer: Because they represent public demands and opinions, which the government must consider. - Why is the term of Rajya Sabha staggered for one-third of members every two years?
Answer: To maintain continuity in the House and prevent complete dissolution. - Why are MPs responsible for highlighting constituency problems?
Answer: To ensure that local issues are addressed at the national level. - Why is the Parliament considered central to Indian democracy?
Answer: Because it performs law-making, controls the government, and represents people’s interests. - Why does the government need the support of the majority in Lok Sabha?
Answer: To ensure it can pass laws and run the administration effectively. - Why do citizens participate in elections besides voting?
Answer: To raise demands, express opinions, and influence governance through public engagement. - Why can controversial laws be amended in India?
Answer: To reflect changing public opinion and maintain trust in democracy. - Why is accountability a key feature of a democracy?
Answer: Because it ensures that elected representatives and the government answer to citizens for their actions. - Why do MPs debate Bills in Parliament?
Answer: To examine proposals thoroughly, suggest amendments, and ensure laws are fair and effective.
Arrange the Words
Case Studies
Case Study 1
During a parliamentary session, a Member of Parliament (MP) raised questions about delays in government projects in her constituency. She also suggested improvements in public services.
Question: Why is the MP raising such questions in Parliament?
Answer: The MP is using Question Hour to hold the government accountable, highlight constituency problems, and guide the government to make better decisions.
Case Study 2
A new Bill proposing stricter environmental regulations was introduced in Parliament. After discussions in both Houses, it was passed and sent for the President’s assent.
Question: Explain the process that this Bill underwent to become a law.
Answer: The Bill was introduced in Parliament, debated and discussed in both Houses, passed by majority in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and then received the President’s assent to become a law.
Case Study 3
The government passed a law allowing private companies to manage water supply in some cities. People organised protests, rallies, and petitions opposing this law.
Question: What does this example show about democracy in India?
Answer: It shows that in a democracy, citizens can express dissent and influence law-making through petitions, protests, and public opinion, and that laws are not fixed forever.
Case Study 4
The Prime Minister selected a team of ministers to handle different departments such as finance, health, and education.
Question: Why does the Prime Minister select ministers?
Answer: The Prime Minister selects ministers to form the Council of Ministers, ensuring efficient administration and implementation of government policies.
Case Study 5
A law was passed by Parliament but later, citizens demanded amendments through petitions and rallies. Parliament debated the demands and made some changes to the law.
Question: Why was the law amended?
Answer: The law was amended to reflect public opinion and ensure that the law met the changing needs and demands of citizens.
Case Study 6
During Lok Sabha elections, citizens voted for their preferred candidates. The party with the majority formed the government, and the leader became the Prime Minister.
Question: Why is voting important in a democracy?
Answer: Voting allows citizens to choose representatives who will make decisions on their behalf, ensuring accountability and participation in governance.
Case Study 7
An MP of the Rajya Sabha suggested changes in national education policy, representing the interests of her state.
Question: Why do Rajya Sabha members represent state interests?
Answer: Rajya Sabha represents the states, and its members raise state-specific concerns and ensure that state voices are considered in national law-making.
Case Study 8
A controversial law was passed in Parliament, leading to debates and discussions in newspapers, television, and public forums.
Question: Why is public debate important after a law is passed?
Answer: Public debate ensures transparency, encourages accountability, and allows Parliament to reconsider or amend laws based on citizens’ feedback.
Case Study 9
A new safety law was introduced in Parliament following demands from citizens and organizations concerned about road accidents.
Question: How do citizens influence law-making in this case?
Answer: Citizens influenced law-making by raising demands through petitions, campaigns, and public opinion, prompting Parliament to consider and pass the law.
Case Study 10
During a parliamentary session, MPs discussed both government proposals and demands from citizens. They debated, suggested amendments, and passed laws accordingly.
Question: What does this example show about the role of Parliament?
Answer: It shows that Parliament not only makes new laws but also guides, controls, and ensures that government decisions reflect public needs and democratic principles.
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