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Chapter Analysis
Intermediate20 pages • EnglishQuick Summary
The chapter 'Recent developments in Indian politics' discusses the shift in Indian politics due to the decline of Congress dominance and the rise of coalition governments since 1989. It also covers the emergence of new political trends, including the rise of the BJP and the role of regional parties in national politics. The chapter explores major political changes such as the implementation of the Mandal Commission recommendations, the Ayodhya dispute, and the shifts in economic policies. Moreover, it describes the growing consensus among political parties on some crucial issues after the 2014 elections, where the BJP achieved a majority.
Key Topics
- •Coalition politics post-1989
- •Decline of Congress dominance
- •Rise of BJP and regional parties
- •Mandal Commission and OBC reservations
- •Ayodhya dispute and its implications
- •Economic liberalization and new policies
- •Political consensus on key issues
Learning Objectives
- ✓Understand the shift from Congress-centric politics to coalition politics in India.
- ✓Analyze the impact of the Mandal Commission on social and electoral dynamics.
- ✓Explore the role of regional parties in shaping national governance.
- ✓Evaluate the implications of economic reforms initiated in the 1990s.
- ✓Discuss the significance of cultural and religious issues in political mobilization.
- ✓Critically assess the evolution of political consensus in recent Indian politics.
Questions in Chapter
State the main issues in Indian politics in the period after 1989. What different configurations of political parties these differences lead to?
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“In the new era of coalition politics, political parties are not aligning or re-aligning on the basis of ideology.” What arguments would you put forward to support or oppose this statement?
Page 156
Trace the emergence of BJP as a significant force in post-Emergency politics.
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In spite of the decline of Congress dominance, the Congress party continues to influence politics in the country. Do you agree? Give reasons.
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Many people think that a two-party system is required for successful democracy. Drawing from India’s experience of last 30 years, write an essay on what advantages the present party system in India has.
Page 156
Additional Practice Questions
Discuss the impact of the Mandal Commission report on Indian politics.
mediumAnswer: The Mandal Commission report, implemented in the 1990s, led to significant political mobilization among the OBC communities. It sparked widespread agitation and debates regarding caste-based reservations, thereby influencing electoral politics and policy-making in India.
How did the Ram Janmabhoomi movement influence the political landscape of India?
hardAnswer: The Ram Janmabhoomi movement heightened religious and cultural sentiments in the country, fostering communal politics and influencing the BJP’s rise. It played a crucial role in polarizing voters and shaped the discourse around secularism and democracy in India.
What role have regional parties played in shaping the national politics of India post-1989?
mediumAnswer: Since 1989, regional parties have become instrumental in coalition governments, influencing policy decisions and representing regional interests at the national level. They have been pivotal in forming governing alliances and determining political stability in various administrations.
Evaluate the impact of economic liberalization on Indian politics.
hardAnswer: Economic liberalization initiated in the 1990s transformed India into a more market-oriented economy, attracting foreign investments and boosting growth. Politically, it led to a broad consensus among parties on economic reforms, though it also sparked criticism and resistance from various quarters concerned with economic inequality and social welfare.
Describe the challenges faced by coalition governments in India.
mediumAnswer: Coalition governments in India often struggle with stability due to ideological differences and power dynamics among coalition partners. These challenges include maintaining coherence in policy-making, managing diverse regional interests, and ensuring sustained governance without succumbing to political instability.
How has Narendra Modi's leadership impacted Indian politics since 2014?
easyAnswer: Since 2014, Narendra Modi's leadership has led to the centralization of power, a shift towards more nationalistic policies, and an emphasis on economic development. His tenure is marked by significant electoral victories and a strong majority for the BJP, changing the traditional coalition dynamics.