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Chapter Analysis
Intermediate18 pages • EnglishQuick Summary
The chapter 'Parliament and the Making of Laws' in Class 8 Political Science discusses the critical role of Parliament in the democratic functioning of India. It highlights how Parliament enables citizens to participate in decision-making and control of the government, symbolizing Indian democracy. The chapter also explains the process of how laws are made, the role of Members of Parliament, and the concept of universal adult franchise, elucidating the connection between democracy and parliamentary processes.
Key Topics
- •Role and functions of Parliament
- •Universal adult franchise
- •Election process and representation
- •Law-making process
- •Role of Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha
- •Parliamentary democracy and accountability
- •Coalition government
- •Public participation and governance
Learning Objectives
- ✓Understand the structure and functions of the Indian Parliament.
- ✓Analyze the role of citizens in a democracy.
- ✓Explain the process by which laws are made in Parliament.
- ✓Discuss the role of the Opposition in a parliamentary system.
- ✓Recognize the importance of universal adult franchise.
- ✓Evaluate the significance of public participation in governance.
Questions in Chapter
Use the terms ‘constituency’ and ‘represent’ to explain who an MLA is and how the person gets elected?
Page 33
Discuss with your teacher the difference between a State Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) and the Parliament (Lok Sabha).
Page 33
From a list, identify the work of a State government and that of a Central government.
Page 33
Fill in the blanks with ‘universal adult franchise’, ‘MLAs’, ‘representatives’, and ‘directly’.
Page 33
Why do we have a system where the representatives are elected for a fixed period of five years and not for life?
Page 34
Can you describe three ways people participate in governance other than elections?
Page 34
Additional Practice Questions
What are the main functions of the Parliament?
mediumAnswer: The main functions of the Parliament include law-making, controlling the executive, and representing the interests of the citizens. It scrutinizes government policies, debates national issues, and passes laws necessary for the smooth functioning of the country.
Explain the role of the Rajya Sabha in the legislative process.
mediumAnswer: The Rajya Sabha, or the Council of States, represents the states of India in the Parliament. It reviews and can suggest amendments to bills passed by the Lok Sabha. Although it cannot reject a money bill, its role as a revising chamber is crucial in the legislative process.
How does the Question Hour in Parliament ensure accountability of the government?
mediumAnswer: During the Question Hour, Members of Parliament question the government on various policies and issues, keeping it accountable and transparent. This practice allows MPs to elicit information and highlight shortcomings, thereby ensuring the government addresses public concerns.
What is a coalition government, and why might one be necessary?
hardAnswer: A coalition government forms when no single political party secures an outright majority in the Parliament. Multiple parties collaborate to form a government, ensuring broader representation and political stability by aligning on common goals.
Discuss the importance of the Opposition in a parliamentary democracy.
mediumAnswer: The Opposition in Parliament plays a critical role in challenging government policies, ensuring a check on the ruling party's power, and offering alternative policies. It highlights issues, mobilizes public opinion, and contributes to a balanced and democratic governance.