Tag: Chapter – 10

  • Chapter-10-The Constitution of India-An Introduction, Class 7th, Social Science, NCERT

    NCERT Questions and Activities (with Answers)

    Q1. “The Constituent Assembly had representatives from diverse backgrounds in India.” Why was this important?
    Answer:
    India is a diverse country with many religions, languages, castes, and regions. Having representatives from all groups ensured that the Constitution reflected the voices, needs, and values of every community. This made it democratic and acceptable to all.


    Q2. Identify which key features/values of the Constitution are reflected in each statement.

    a) Sheena, Rajat, and Harsh are standing in a line to cast their first vote → Democracy / Universal Adult Franchise
    b) Radha, Imon, and Harpreet study in the same class in the same school → Equality
    c) Parents must ensure their children’s education → Fundamental Duty
    d) People of all castes, genders, and religions can use the village well → Right to Equality / Social Justice


    Q3. “All citizens in India are equal before the law.” Do you think this is a fact? Why/why not?
    Answer:
    Yes, it is a fact. Article 14 of the Constitution guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of laws to all citizens, regardless of caste, religion, gender, or wealth. Though in practice inequalities still exist, the law treats everyone equally and provides protection to all.


    Q4. Why did India give universal adult franchise to its citizens from the beginning?
    Answer:
    India gave universal adult franchise because the freedom struggle had shown the importance of equality and participation of all people. Leaders believed that every adult should have a voice in shaping the nation, irrespective of caste, gender, education, or wealth. It was a step towards justice and true democracy.


    Q5. How did the freedom struggle and civilisational heritage inspire the Constitution?
    Answer:

    • Freedom Struggle: Brought ideals of equality, justice, liberty, secularism, and fraternity into the Constitution.

    • Civilisational Heritage: Ancient Indian traditions of tolerance, respect for diversity, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family), and duties of rulers shaped features like Fundamental Duties and cultural rights.
      Together, these ensured that the Constitution combined modern democratic values with India’s rich traditions.


    Q6. Do you think we have achieved all the ideals of the Constitution? If not, what can we do?
    Answer:
    Not fully. Problems like inequality, poverty, corruption, and discrimination still exist. As citizens, we must follow our Fundamental Duties, respect laws, participate in democracy, and work for social harmony. Governments must ensure justice, equality, and development for all.


    Q7. Crossword Puzzle (Answers):

    • Across:

    1. Legislature

    2. Fundamental Duties

    3. Supreme Court

    4. Republic

    5. Amendment

    • Down:

    1. Constituent Assembly

    2. Preamble

    3. Constitution

    4. Helium

    5. Fundamental Rights


    Extra Short Answer Questions (2–3 sentences)

    1. Who is called the Father of the Indian Constitution?
      → Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, as he chaired the Drafting Committee.

    2. When was the Constitution adopted and when did it come into effect?
      → Adopted on 26 November 1949, came into effect on 26 January 1950.

    3. What does the word ‘sovereign’ mean in the Preamble?
      → India is free to make its own decisions in internal and external matters without interference from outside powers.

    4. Which two words were added to the Preamble in 1976?
      → Socialist and Secular.

    5. Name the three organs of government.
      → Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary.

    6. What is meant by ‘living document’?
      → The Constitution can be changed and adapted through amendments to meet the needs of the country.

    7. Which gas is used to preserve the original Constitution?
      → Helium.

    8. What is Article 21-A?
      → Right to free and compulsory education for children between 6 and 14 years.

    9. What is the importance of the Preamble?
      → It states the guiding values and principles of the Constitution.

    10. Which part of the Constitution describes long-term social and economic goals?
      → Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP).


    Extra Long Answer Questions (5–6 sentences)

    Q1. Explain the importance of the Preamble to the Indian Constitution.
    → The Preamble is the introduction and guiding spirit of the Constitution. It declares India as Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, and Republic. It assures citizens Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. It reflects the values of the freedom struggle and sets goals for the future. It is like a mirror of the Constitution’s aims and philosophy.


    Q2. How was the Indian Constitution prepared?
    → A Constituent Assembly was set up in 1946 with 389 members (later 299 after Partition). Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the Chairman, and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar headed the Drafting Committee. The Constitution was discussed, debated, and drafted for nearly 3 years. It was adopted on 26 November 1949 and came into effect on 26 January 1950.


    Q3. What are the key features of the Indian Constitution?
    → The Indian Constitution is the world’s largest written constitution. It provides Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles, and separation of powers among legislature, executive, and judiciary. It establishes a federal system with a strong centre. It upholds secularism, equality, justice, and liberty. It is a living document that can be amended to meet future needs.