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Chapter Analysis
Beginner17 pages • EnglishQuick Summary
Chapter 1 of the Class 8 Political Science textbook, titled 'The Indian Constitution', explores the necessity and significance of the Indian Constitution in maintaining a democratic society. It discusses key features such as federalism, separation of powers, and fundamental rights. The chapter also highlights the importance of a constitution in safeguarding against the misuse of power and ensuring equal rights for all citizens. It explains how the Constitution was framed by the Constituent Assembly and its role in shaping India as a democratic republic.
Key Topics
- •Federalism
- •Separation of Powers
- •Fundamental Rights
- •Secularism
- •Role of Constituent Assembly
- •Universal Adult Suffrage
- •Directive Principles of State Policy
- •Parliamentary Form of Government
Learning Objectives
- ✓Understand the key features and significance of the Indian Constitution.
- ✓Recognize the role of the Constitution in safeguarding democracy.
- ✓Learn about the process involved in the framing of the Constitution by the Constituent Assembly.
- ✓Appreciate the importance of fundamental rights in ensuring equality and justice.
- ✓Understand the federal structure and the distribution of powers between central and state governments.
Questions in Chapter
Why does a democratic country need a Constitution?
Page 16
What is the difference in who exercises ‘Executive Power’ in the 1990 and 2015 Constitutions of Nepal?
Page 17
What would happen if there were no restrictions on the power of elected representatives?
Page 17
In each of the following situations, identify the minority. Write one reason why you think it is important to respect the views of the minority in each of these situations.
Answer: ["(a) In a school with 30 teachers, 20 of them are male.","(b) In a city, 5 per cent of the population are Buddhists.","(c) In a factory mess for all employees, 80 per cent are vegetarians.","(d) In a class of 50 students, 40 belong to more well-off families."]
Page 17
The column on the left lists some of the key features of the Indian Constitution. In the other column write two sentences, in your own words, on why you think this feature is important:
Page 17
Additional Practice Questions
Explain the significance of ‘Separation of Powers’ as described in the Indian Constitution.
Answer: The 'Separation of Powers' is a principle ensuring that the three branches of government – legislative, executive, and judiciary – operate independently and check each other to prevent any abuse of power. This principle is vital to maintain balance and accountability within government operations.
What lessons can contemporary societies learn from the Constituent Assembly's approach to drafting the Indian Constitution?
Answer: Contemporary societies can learn the importance of consensus, inclusivity, and a problem-solving approach in constitution making. The Assembly's dedication to deliberation and compromise highlights the value of collaborative decision-making in governance.
Discuss how the Indian Constitution addresses the issue of inequality.
Answer: The Indian Constitution addresses inequality through the provision of Fundamental Rights that guarantee equality before the law and prohibit discrimination on the basis of religion, race, caste, gender, and place of birth. It also abolishes untouchability and protects the rights of minorities.
How does federalism maintain unity in a diverse country like India?
Answer: Federalism in India provides a framework where state and central governments share powers, addressing local aspirations while maintaining national unity. This division of powers respects regional diversity and prevents any single entity from wielding excessive control.
Why is secularism an important feature of the Indian Constitution?
Answer: Secularism ensures that the state treats all religions impartially, maintaining a respectful distance between government and religious practices. This feature is crucial for promoting religious harmony and safeguarding individual freedom of belief in a diverse nation.