Chapter 3: How the State Government Works

Political Science • Class 7

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Chapter Analysis

Beginner12 pages • English

Quick Summary

Chapter 3 of the Class 7 Political Science NCERT textbook discusses the functioning of the state government in India. It focuses on the role of the Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and how they represent the people of their constituencies. The chapter explains the process of forming a government in a democracy, where MLAs from the ruling party form the government, and some become ministers responsible for various departments. Through the example of a health crisis in Patalpuram, it illustrates how the government addresses public issues and how discussions and decisions are made in the Legislative Assembly.

Key Topics

  • Role of MLAs
  • Formation of State Government
  • Functioning of Legislative Assembly
  • Public representation
  • Government accountability
  • Crisis management by state government
  • Debate and decision-making in democracy
  • Importance of opposition in assembly

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the role of MLAs in the legislative process.
  • Comprehend the formation and functioning of the state government.
  • Identify the process through which state governments address public issues.
  • Explain the importance of debate and decisions in the Legislative Assembly.
  • Recognize the role of the opposition in a democratic setup.
  • Illustrate how state governments manage crises.

Questions in Chapter

Use the terms 'constituency' and 'represent' to explain who an MLA is and how is the person elected?

Page 34

How did some MLAs become Ministers? Explain.

Page 34

Why should decisions taken by the Chief Minister and other ministers be debated in the Legislative Assembly?

Page 34

What was the problem in Patalpuram? What discussion/action was taken by the following? Fill in the table.

Page 34

What is the difference between the work that MLAs do in the Assembly and the work done by government departments?

Page 35

Additional Practice Questions

What are the main functions of the State Government in India?

medium

Answer: The main functions of the State Government include implementing laws and policies, maintaining law and order, providing public services such as education and health, and ensuring welfare schemes reach the population.

Explain the process of electing an MLA in India.

easy

Answer: An MLA is elected through a democratic process where voters from a constituency cast their votes in favor of candidates from various political parties. The candidate with the majority of votes is declared the winner and becomes the MLA.

What role do opposition members play in the Legislative Assembly?

medium

Answer: Opposition members in the Legislative Assembly play a crucial role by questioning government actions, proposing alternative policies, and ensuring that the ruling party does not misuse its power. They serve as a check on the government.

Describe how a coalition government is formed.

hard

Answer: A coalition government is formed when no single party gains a majority in the Legislative Assembly. Parties with similar interests work together by forming alliances to reach a majority and form a government.

What responsibilities do ministers in the state government hold?

medium

Answer: Ministers in the state government are responsible for specific departments such as health, education, and public works. They implement government policies, oversee departmental activities, and respond to issues raised in the assembly.