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  • Chapter 4: Working of Institutions, Class 9th, Political Science, NCERT

    NCERT Questions & Answers

    Q1. If you are elected as the President of India which of the following decisions can you take on your own?

    • (a) Select the person you like as Prime Minister ❌

    • (b) Dismiss a Prime Minister who has majority in Lok Sabha ❌

    • (c) Ask for reconsideration of a bill passed by both Houses ✅

    • (d) Nominate leaders of your choice to the Council of Ministers ❌

    Q2. Who among the following is a part of the political executive?

    • (a) District Collector ❌

    • (b) Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs ❌

    • (c) Home Minister ✅

    • (d) Director General of Police ❌

    Q3. Which of the following statements about the judiciary is false?
    (a) Every law passed by Parliament needs approval of Supreme Court ❌ (False)
    (b) Judiciary can strike down a law against the Constitution ✅ (True)
    (c) Judiciary is independent of Executive ✅ (True)
    (d) Any citizen can approach courts if rights are violated ✅ (True)
    Answer: (a) is false.

    Q4. Which of the following institutions can make changes to an existing law of the country?
    (a) Supreme Court ❌
    (b) President ❌
    (c) Prime Minister ❌
    (d) Parliament ✅

    Q5. Match the ministry with the news:

    • (a) Increase jute exports → (iv) Ministry of Commerce & Industry

    • (b) Telephone services in rural areas → (v) Ministry of Communications & IT

    • (c) Price of rice/wheat in PDS ↓ → (ii) Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Public Distribution

    • (d) Pulse polio campaign → (iii) Ministry of Health

    • (e) Allowances of soldiers ↑ → (i) Ministry of Defence

    Q6. Institutions and powers:
    a) Allocation of money for development → Parliament
    b) Committee on stock exchange law → Parliament
    c) Dispute between two state governments → Supreme Court
    d) Relief for earthquake victims → Political Executive (Government/Ministry)

    Q7. Why is the Prime Minister not directly elected by people?
    Answer:

    • (a) is correct: In a parliamentary democracy, only leader of majority in Lok Sabha becomes PM.

    • Direct election would be costly and may cause conflict between PM and Parliament.

    • Lok Sabha can remove PM before term ends, so accountability is ensured.

    Q8. Film showing CM ruling for one day:
    Imran → Wrong: one-man rule is dangerous.
    Rizwan → Correct: Personal rule without institutions is harmful.
    Shankar → Also correct: No minister can change everything in one day.

    Q9. Mock Parliament choice – Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha?
    Answer: Lok Sabha, because it has greater powers in money matters, controls Council of Ministers, and can dismiss government.

    Q10. Reservation order – students’ views:

    • Srinivas: Wrong, judiciary is independent even if it agreed.

    • Anjaiah: Correct, judiciary showed independence and directed modification.

    • Vijaya: Also reasonable, judiciary acted as mediator.
      Best Answer: Anjaiah’s view is most accurate.

    Long Answer Questions

    Q1. Explain the role of Parliament in a democracy.
    Answer:
    Parliament is the supreme law-making body. It makes, changes, and abolishes laws. It controls the executive through questions, debates, and no-confidence motions. It controls finances by approving budgets. It is also the highest forum for discussion and debate on national issues. Lok Sabha, being directly elected, holds more power than Rajya Sabha, especially in money matters and government accountability. Parliament thus represents the voice of the people.

    Q2. What are the powers and functions of the Prime Minister of India?
    Answer:
    The PM is head of government and leader of majority party in Lok Sabha. He chairs Cabinet meetings, coordinates ministries, settles disputes, and supervises work of ministers. He distributes portfolios and can dismiss ministers. All ministers work under his leadership. The PM represents India internationally and influences party and parliamentary affairs. His power depends on majority strength, coalition politics, and his personality.

    Q3. Distinguish between the political executive and the permanent executive. Why is political executive more powerful?
    Answer:

    • Political executive → Elected representatives like PM, ministers; hold office for limited period.

    • Permanent executive → Civil servants/bureaucrats; work for long term irrespective of government.
      Civil servants have expertise, but ministers take final decisions because they are accountable to people. Ministers reflect the will of the people in democracy, hence they are more powerful.

    Q4. Describe the composition and powers of the Supreme Court of India.
    Answer:
    The Supreme Court is the apex judicial body. It settles disputes between citizens, between citizens and government, and between governments. It is the highest court of appeal in civil and criminal cases. It has the power of judicial review – it can strike down unconstitutional laws. It protects fundamental rights and allows PILs. Judges are appointed by President in consultation with judiciary, and can be removed only by impeachment. Its independence makes it guardian of the Constitution.

    Q5. Why are political institutions necessary in a democracy?
    Answer:
    Institutions like Parliament, Executive, and Judiciary ensure smooth governance. They divide responsibilities: Parliament makes laws, Executive implements them, Judiciary interprets and checks them. Institutions prevent misuse of power and ensure accountability. They provide space for debate and consultation, making decisions more democratic. Though institutions cause delays, they protect democracy by preventing hasty and unfair decisions.

    MCQs

    1. Which body makes laws in India?
      (a) President (b) Parliament (c) Supreme Court (d) PM
      Answer: (b)

    2. Who is head of state in India?
      (a) Prime Minister (b) President (c) Speaker (d) CJI
      Answer: (b)

    3. Who is head of government in India?
      (a) PM (b) President (c) CJI (d) Governor
      Answer: (a)

    4. Who chairs Cabinet meetings?
      (a) President (b) PM (c) Speaker (d) Vice President
      Answer: (b)

    5. Which House controls money matters?
      (a) Lok Sabha (b) Rajya Sabha (c) Both equally (d) President
      Answer: (a)

    6. Which House is permanent?
      (a) Lok Sabha (b) Rajya Sabha (c) Both (d) None
      Answer: (b)

    7. Who is Supreme Commander of defence forces?
      (a) PM (b) President (c) Defence Minister (d) Army Chief
      Answer: (b)

    8. Who appoints judges of Supreme Court?
      (a) PM (b) President (c) Parliament (d) CJI alone
      Answer: (b)

    9. Tenure of Lok Sabha is:
      (a) 4 years (b) 5 years (c) 6 years (d) Permanent
      Answer: (b)

    10. Tenure of Rajya Sabha members:
      (a) 4 yrs (b) 5 yrs (c) 6 yrs (d) 7 yrs
      Answer: (c)

    11. Who can dissolve Lok Sabha?
      (a) Speaker (b) President (c) PM (d) CJI
      Answer: (b)

    12. Who heads Rajya Sabha?
      (a) Speaker (b) PM (c) Vice President (d) President
      Answer: (c)

    13. Which body can strike down unconstitutional laws?
      (a) Parliament (b) Supreme Court (c) President (d) Cabinet
      Answer: (b)

    14. Judicial review is power of:
      (a) President (b) Judiciary (c) Parliament (d) Cabinet
      Answer: (b)

    15. Who makes final decisions in ministries?
      (a) Civil servants (b) Ministers (c) Secretaries (d) Courts
      Answer: (b)

    16. Which institution ensures accountability of Executive?
      (a) Parliament (b) President (c) Judiciary (d) Election Commission
      Answer: (a)

    17. PM is appointed by:
      (a) Lok Sabha (b) President (c) Rajya Sabha (d) Supreme Court
      Answer: (b)

    18. Who can remove Supreme Court judges?
      (a) PM (b) President (c) Parliament via impeachment (d) Cabinet
      Answer: (c)

    19. “Guardian of Constitution” is:
      (a) Parliament (b) Supreme Court (c) PM (d) President
      Answer: (b)

    20. Parliamentary democracy is also called:
      (a) Presidential govt (b) Cabinet govt (c) Federal govt (d) Dictatorship
      Answer: (b)

    Fill in the Blanks

    1. The Parliament is the supreme law-making body in India.

    2. The President of India is the head of state.

    3. The Prime Minister is the head of government.

    4. Lok Sabha has greater power in money matters.

    5. Rajya Sabha is a permanent house.

    6. The President appoints the Prime Minister and judges.

    7. The Supreme Court has power of judicial review.

    8. Political executive is elected, permanent executive is appointed.

    9. Parliament controls finances and approves budgets.

    10. Judiciary protects Fundamental Rights of citizens.

  • Chapter 3: Electoral Politics, 9th, Political Science, NCERT

    NCERT Questions & Answers

    Q1. Which of the following statements about the reasons for conducting elections are false?
    a) Elections enable people to judge the performance of the government. ✅ True
    b) People select the representative of their choice in an election. ✅ True
    c) Elections enable people to evaluate the performance of the judiciary. ❌ False
    d) People can indicate which policies they prefer. ✅ True

    Q2. Which of these is not a good reason to say that Indian elections are democratic?
    a) India has the largest number of voters in the world. ❌ Not a valid reason.
    b) India’s Election Commission is very powerful. ✅ Valid.
    c) In India, everyone above the age of 18 has a right to vote. ✅ Valid.
    d) In India, the losing parties accept the electoral verdict. ✅ Valid.

    Q3. Match the following:

    a) It is necessary to keep the voters’ list up to date → (iv) Some people may have moved away from the area.
    b) Some constituencies are reserved for SCs and STs so that → (i) There is fair representation of all sections.
    c) Everyone has one and only one vote so that → (ii) Everyone has equal opportunity to elect.
    d) Party in power is not allowed to use government vehicles because → (iii) All candidates must have a fair chance.

    Q4. List all election-related activities in sequence.

    1. Making of voters’ list

    2. Announcing election schedule

    3. Filing nominations

    4. Releasing election manifestos

    5. Election campaign

    6. Casting of votes

    7. Counting of votes

    8. Declaration of results

    9. Ordering of repoll (if required)

    Q5. Suppose Surekha is an election officer. What should she focus on?
    a) Election campaign – Ensure parties follow Model Code of Conduct, no bribery or misuse of power.
    b) Polling day – Ensure free and fair voting, no rigging or intimidation, secrecy of ballot maintained.
    c) Counting day – Ensure accurate and transparent counting in presence of agents.

    Q6. Should the US have reservations in Congress?
    Answer: Yes, because Blacks and Hispanics are underrepresented compared to their population. A system of reservation would ensure inclusiveness and fair representation, like India’s SC/ST reservations.

    Q7. Can we draw these conclusions?
    a) ECI does not have enough powers → ❌ Wrong, it has very wide powers.
    b) High participation in elections → ✅ True, turnout in India is higher than many countries.
    c) Easy for ruling party to win → ❌ Wrong, ruling parties often lose.
    d) Many reforms are needed → ✅ True, issues like money power, criminalisation remain.

    Q8. Chinappa and Satbir were disqualified. Does it go against democracy?
    → No, it supports democracy. People guilty of crimes like dowry torture and untouchability should not contest. It ensures clean politics.

    Q9. Reports of malpractices:
    a) Nigeria – Counting manipulation → Learn from India’s independent EC and transparency.
    b) Fiji – Threats to voters → Learn from India’s law against intimidation.
    c) USA – Different state procedures → Learn from India’s uniform nationwide election system.

    Q10. Malpractices in India:
    a) Minister promising aid → Misuse of government position. Correct: Model Code of Conduct enforcement.
    b) Opposition denied media → Bias in coverage. Correct: Ensure equal access.
    c) Fake names in rolls → Flawed voter list. Correct: Regular updates and verification.
    d) Party hoodlums with guns → Violence. Correct: Strong police and EC monitoring.

    Q11. Correct Ramesh’s misconceptions:
    a) Women always vote as told → ❌ Wrong. Women make independent choices.
    b) Elections by consensus, not competition → ❌ Wrong. Competition ensures accountability.
    c) Only graduates should contest → ❌ Wrong. Democracy allows equal opportunity.

    Long Answer Questions

    Q1. Explain the role of the Election Commission of India.
    Answer (150 words):
    The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an independent constitutional body that conducts elections. It supervises Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, state assemblies, and presidential elections. It ensures free and fair elections by preparing voter lists, monitoring campaigns, enforcing the Model Code of Conduct, and preventing misuse of power. It can order repolls, transfer officials, and punish violators. Its independence is protected by the Constitution, making it a strong guardian of democracy.

    Q2. Describe the election process in India step by step.
    Answer (160 words):

    1. Constituencies are demarcated.

    2. Voters’ list is prepared and updated.

    3. Candidates file nominations with security deposits.

    4. Election campaigns are conducted, parties release manifestos.

    5. Polling takes place using EVMs, voters cast votes secretly.

    6. Counting is done under EC supervision.

    7. Results are declared, winners form government.
      This process ensures participation, fairness, and accountability.

    Q3. What are the major challenges of Indian elections?
    Answer (150 words):

    • Use of money power.

    • Criminalisation of politics.

    • Family dominance in parties.

    • Unequal playing field for independents.

    • Misuse of government resources.
      Despite these, Indian elections remain largely free and fair. Reforms like stricter expenditure limits, banning criminals, and more transparency are needed.

    Q4. Why are elections considered essential in a democracy?
    Answer (150 words):
    Elections are the means through which people choose representatives, change governments, and influence policies. They ensure accountability, equality (one person, one vote), and peaceful transfer of power. Without elections, democracy cannot function. They act as a mechanism for people’s consent and provide legitimacy to the government.

    Q5. “Elections in India are both free and fair but face limitations.” Discuss.
    Answer (160 words):
    Indian elections are largely free and fair due to the independent Election Commission, universal franchise, secret ballot, and regular participation. Ruling parties often lose, showing fairness. However, limitations exist: money power, muscle power, fake voters, and lack of choice. Thus, while the system is democratic, reforms are needed to make it fully fair.

    MCQs

    1. Who conducts elections in India?
      (a) President (b) Parliament (c) Election Commission (d) Prime Minister
      Answer: (c)

    2. Minimum age to vote in India is:
      (a) 16 (b) 18 (c) 21 (d) 25
      Answer: (b)

    3. Minimum age to contest elections in India:
      (a) 18 (b) 21 (c) 25 (d) 30
      Answer: (c)

    4. What is an electoral roll?
      (a) Candidate list (b) Voters’ list (c) Party list (d) None
      Answer: (b)

    5. Lok Sabha constituencies in India:
      (a) 500 (b) 543 (c) 550 (d) 552
      Answer: (b)

    6. Reserved Lok Sabha seats for SCs:
      (a) 84 (b) 47 (c) 100 (d) 90
      Answer: (a)

    7. Reserved Lok Sabha seats for STs:
      (a) 84 (b) 47 (c) 60 (d) 75
      Answer: (b)

    8. Model Code of Conduct prevents use of:
      (a) Religion, caste (b) Money, bribery (c) Government resources (d) All of these
      Answer: (d)

    9. Who can order a repoll?
      (a) Government (b) Election Commission (c) High Court (d) President
      Answer: (b)

    10. Which voting system is used in India?
      (a) Open ballot (b) Secret ballot (c) Lottery (d) None
      Answer: (b)

    11. When was EVM first used?
      (a) 1977 (b) 1982 (c) 2004 (d) 1999
      Answer: (b) (Kerala, 1982)

    12. A by-election means:
      (a) National election (b) State election (c) Election for one seat due to vacancy (d) None
      Answer: (c)

    13. Chief Election Commissioner is appointed by:
      (a) Prime Minister (b) President (c) Parliament (d) Judiciary
      Answer: (b)

    14. Which law caps candidate spending in Lok Sabha elections?
      (a) Representation of People Act (b) Election Reform Act (c) Parliament Act (d) None
      Answer: (a)

    15. Election day is when voters:
      (a) Count votes (b) Cast votes (c) Campaign (d) File nomination
      Answer: (b)

    16. Independent candidates are given:
      (a) Party ticket (b) Party symbol (c) EC allotted symbol (d) None
      Answer: (c)

    17. “Garibi Hatao” slogan was given in:
      (a) 1967 (b) 1971 (c) 1977 (d) 1980
      Answer: (b)

    18. “Save Democracy” slogan was given in:
      (a) 1977 (b) 1980 (c) 1984 (d) 1991
      Answer: (a)

    19. Which organisation introduced EPIC (Voter ID)?
      (a) EC (b) Parliament (c) Supreme Court (d) PMO
      Answer: (a)

    20. Who supervises polling inside booths?
      (a) Police (b) Candidate agents (c) Election officials (d) All of these
      Answer: (d)

    Fill in the Blanks

    1. India has 543 Lok Sabha constituencies.

    2. Election Commission of India conducts elections.

    3. Minimum age to contest elections is 25 years.

    4. The voters’ list is also called the electoral roll.

    5. 84 seats in Lok Sabha are reserved for SCs.

    6. 47 seats are reserved for STs.

    7. The ruling party cannot use government resources for campaigning.

    8. EVMs are used for voting in India.

    9. The process of holding elections in one seat due to vacancy is called by-election.

    10. Model Code of Conduct guides election campaigns.

  • Chapter 2: Constitutional Design, Class 9th, Political Science, NCERT

    NCERT Questions & Answers

    Q1. Here are some false statements. Identify the mistake in each case and rewrite correctly.
    a) Leaders of the freedom movement had an open mind about democracy.
    → Mistake: They were committed to democracy.
    Correct: Leaders were committed to making India a democracy.

    b) Members of the Constituent Assembly held the same views.
    → Mistake: They had diverse opinions.
    Correct: Members had many different views but reached consensus.

    c) A country that has a constitution must be a democracy.
    → Mistake: Some non-democracies also have constitutions.
    Correct: All democracies have constitutions, but not all countries with constitutions are democratic.

    d) Constitution cannot be amended.
    → Mistake: It can be amended.
    Correct: Constitution can be amended to suit changing needs.

    Q2. Most salient conflict in South Africa’s constitution-making?
    → Conflict between the white minority and the black majority.

    Q3. Which provision is not found in a democratic constitution?
    → (d) Name of the country.

    Q4. Match the leaders:

    • Motilal Nehru → (iv) Prepared a Constitution for India in 1928

    • B.R. Ambedkar → (iii) Chairman of the Drafting Committee

    • Rajendra Prasad → (i) President of the Constituent Assembly

    • Sarojini Naidu → (ii) Member of the Constituent Assembly

    Q5. Read Nehru’s speech ‘Tryst with Destiny’ and answer:
    a) Why “not wholly or in full measure”?
    → Because India had achieved independence, but social and economic challenges remained.

    b) What pledge?
    → To dedicate themselves to service of India, end poverty, ignorance, and inequality.

    c) “The greatest man of our generation”?
    → Mahatma Gandhi.

    Q6. Guiding values – Match:

    • Sovereign → (ii) People have supreme right to make decisions.

    • Republic → (iii) Head of state is elected.

    • Fraternity → (iv) People should live like brothers and sisters.

    • Secular → (i) Government does not favour any religion.

    Q7. Constitution Day celebration report (example):
    On 26 November, our school organised a special assembly. Students read the Preamble aloud. Teachers explained its meaning. Poster-making and essay competitions were held. We pledged to follow constitutional values.

    Q8. Opinions about India’s democracy:
    a) Gift of British → Limited importance, since democracy in India was shaped by freedom struggle.
    b) Freedom struggle → Very important, it rooted democracy in Indian soil.
    c) Leadership → Equally important, as leaders ensured democratic principles.

    Q9. Extract about women (1912 conduct book). Does it reflect constitutional values?
    → No. It goes against constitutional values of equality, dignity, and gender justice.

    Q10. Statements about constitution – True or Not True:
    a) Authority same as other laws → ❌ Not true, Constitution is supreme.
    b) Constitution lays down government organs → ✅ True.
    c) Rights of citizens and limits on power in Constitution → ✅ True.
    d) Constitution is about institutions, not values → ❌ Not true, it is about both.

    Long Answer Questions

    Q1. Why do we need a Constitution?
    Answer: A constitution provides basic rules for governance. It establishes trust among diverse groups, specifies how governments are formed, limits powers of rulers, and guarantees rights of citizens. It also reflects aspirations of people for justice, equality, and liberty. Without a constitution, democracy cannot function smoothly.

    Q2. Explain the circumstances in which the Indian Constitution was made.
    Answer: India’s Constitution was drafted under difficult conditions:

    • Partition violence killed lakhs.

    • Over 500 princely states had to be integrated.

    • Citizens were moving from being subjects to citizens.
      Yet leaders had the advantage of shared ideals from the freedom struggle and prior experience of legislatures under colonial rule. They drew inspiration from global democratic ideals but adapted them to Indian needs.

    Q3. Describe the role of the Constituent Assembly.
    Answer: The Constituent Assembly of India, elected in 1946, had 299 members. It represented diverse social groups, regions, and ideologies. It functioned in a democratic, open, and consensual way. Under Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, it debated for 3 years, considered over 2000 amendments, and finally adopted the Constitution on 26 November 1949. This ensured its legitimacy.

    Q4. Discuss the guiding values of the Indian Constitution as reflected in the Preamble.
    Answer: The Preamble expresses foundational values:

    • Sovereign – India is free from external control.

    • Socialist – Aim of reducing inequality.

    • Secular – Equal respect to all religions.

    • Democratic – Rule by elected representatives.

    • Republic – Head of state is elected.
      It also ensures justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity for all citizens. These values guide governance and serve as a standard to judge laws.

    Q5. How did South Africa achieve its democratic constitution?
    Answer: South Africa suffered under apartheid, where the black majority was oppressed. Nelson Mandela and the ANC led protests. Finally, the white regime agreed to majority rule, while blacks assured whites of property rights. A new constitution (1994) granted equal rights to all, ending apartheid. This constitution became a global model of reconciliation, justice, and democracy.

    MCQs

    1. The supreme law of a country is called:
      (a) Legislature (b) Constitution (c) Preamble (d) Parliament
      Answer: (b)

    2. Apartheid was practiced in:
      (a) India (b) USA (c) South Africa (d) China
      Answer: (c)

    3. Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for:
      (a) 15 years (b) 27 years (c) 20 years (d) 30 years
      Answer: (b)

    4. Which party led the anti-apartheid struggle?
      (a) African Unity Party (b) ANC (c) Communist Party of India (d) PAC
      Answer: (b)

    5. The Indian Constitution came into effect on:
      (a) 15 August 1947 (b) 26 January 1950 (c) 26 November 1949 (d) 2 October 1950
      Answer: (b)

    6. Who was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee?
      (a) Rajendra Prasad (b) B.R. Ambedkar (c) Nehru (d) Patel
      Answer: (b)

    7. President of the Constituent Assembly was:
      (a) Nehru (b) Rajendra Prasad (c) Patel (d) Ambedkar
      Answer: (b)

    8. Universal adult franchise means:
      (a) Only men vote (b) Only rich vote (c) All adults vote equally (d) Only educated vote
      Answer: (c)

    9. Indian Constitution was influenced by:
      (a) French Revolution (b) US Bill of Rights (c) British Parliament (d) All of these
      Answer: (d)

    10. India celebrates Republic Day on:
      (a) 15 Aug (b) 26 Jan (c) 2 Oct (d) 14 Nov
      Answer: (b)

    11. Constitution can be changed by:
      (a) Prime Minister (b) Judiciary (c) Parliament through amendments (d) President
      Answer: (c)

    12. Preamble reflects:
      (a) Philosophy of Constitution (b) Rules of election (c) Economic policy (d) Budget
      Answer: (a)

    13. “Tryst with Destiny” speech was given by:
      (a) Ambedkar (b) Nehru (c) Rajendra Prasad (d) Patel
      Answer: (b)

    14. Which value was added by 42nd Amendment?
      (a) Socialist & Secular (b) Democratic & Republic (c) Sovereign & Equality (d) Justice & Liberty
      Answer: (a)

    15. How many amendments were discussed in Constituent Assembly?
      (a) 500 (b) 1000 (c) 2000+ (d) 100
      Answer: (c)

    16. Constitution was adopted on:
      (a) 15 Aug 1947 (b) 26 Nov 1949 (c) 26 Jan 1950 (d) 2 Oct 1947
      Answer: (b)

    17. Who gave the slogan to wipe every tear from every eye?
      (a) Gandhi (b) Nehru (c) Patel (d) Ambedkar
      Answer: (b)

    18. Which right was emphasised in South Africa’s constitution?
      (a) Racial privilege (b) Equal rights for all (c) Dictatorship (d) Censorship
      Answer: (b)

    19. “We, the People of India…” appears in:
      (a) Directive Principles (b) Fundamental Rights (c) Preamble (d) Schedule
      Answer: (c)

    20. Number of members in Indian Constituent Assembly?
      (a) 500 (b) 299 (c) 450 (d) 350
      Answer: (b)

    Fill in the Blanks

    1. Apartheid was the system of racial segregation in South Africa.

    2. The Indian Constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949.

    3. It came into effect on 26 January 1950.

    4. The Constituent Assembly had 299 members.

    5. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee.

    6. Rajendra Prasad was the President of the Constituent Assembly.

    7. Preamble is called the soul of the Constitution.

    8. The South African struggle was led by the African National Congress.

    9. Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic are key words of the Preamble.

    10. India celebrates Republic Day on 26 January every year.

  • Chapter 1: What is Democracy? Why Democracy? Class 9th, Political Science

    NCERT Questions & Answers

    Q1. Country A: People who do not accept the country’s official religion do not have a right to vote. Country B: The same party has been winning elections for the last twenty years. Country C: Ruling party has lost in the last three elections. Country D: There is no independent Election Commission. Classify them.
    Answer:

    • Country A – Undemocratic (excludes people on religious basis).

    • Country B – Not sure (could be democratic, but repeated wins may hint unfairness).

    • Country C – Democratic (shows ruling party can lose).

    • Country D – Undemocratic (elections not free and fair).

    Q2. Country P: Parliament cannot pass a law about the army without army chief’s consent. Country Q: Parliament cannot pass a law reducing judiciary’s powers. Country R: Leaders cannot sign treaties without neighbouring country’s permission. Country S: Economic decisions are taken only by central bank officials. Classify.
    Answer:

    • Country P – Undemocratic (army controls government).

    • Country Q – Democratic (judiciary’s independence is protected).

    • Country R – Undemocratic (loss of sovereignty).

    • Country S – Not sure (technical experts may decide, but ministers must remain accountable).

    Q3. Which of these is not a good argument for democracy?
    a) People feel free and equal
    b) Democracies resolve conflict better
    c) Democratic government is more accountable
    d) Democracies are more prosperous
    Answer: (d) Democracies are not always more prosperous than others.

    Q4. Separate democratic and undemocratic elements in the statements:
    a) WTO requires laws – Undemocratic; Parliament passes laws – Democratic.
    b) Re-polling ordered – Democratic; Rigging happened – Undemocratic.
    c) Women’s demand for 1/3 seats – Democratic; Only 10% women present – Undemocratic.

    Q5. Which is not a valid reason that famines are less likely in democracy?
    Answer: (d) People are free to believe in any religion. (Religion is unrelated to famine.)

    Q6. Villagers without drinking water used methods to pressure government. Which is not democratic?
    Answer: (d) Paying bribes to officials.

    Q7. Write responses to arguments against democracy:
    a) Army rule is better – Wrong, because armies are not accountable to people.
    b) Rule of majority = ignorant rule – Wrong, democracy respects equality and collective wisdom.
    c) Religious leaders should rule – Wrong, politics mixed with religion excludes others and becomes undemocratic.

    Q8. Are these statements democratic?
    a) Father denies daughter’s opinion – Undemocratic.
    b) Teacher stops student’s questions – Undemocratic.
    c) Employee demands legal working hours – Democratic.

    Q9. A country with elections, but loans dictate policy, only one language used, leaders arrested, and press censored. Is it a democracy?
    Answer: No, because despite elections, freedom, equality, and rights are denied.

    Q10. Write an essay on Democracy and Poverty (based on US & Indian examples).
    Answer (short):
    Democracy allows participation, but poverty often limits it. In the US, wealthier people influence politics more. In India too, the poor struggle to make their voices heard. Yet democracy gives the poor opportunities through elections, protests, and court petitions. Democracy must reduce inequality to be meaningful.

    Extra Long Answer Questions

    Q1. Explain four major features of democracy with examples.
    Answer:

    1. Elected rulers – Leaders chosen by citizens (India, not Myanmar under military).

    2. Free and fair elections – Real choice of parties (India vs. China’s one-party rule).

    3. One person, one vote, one value – Universal adult franchise (India vs. Fiji’s unequal votes).

    4. Rule of law and rights – Leaders bound by Constitution and rights (Zimbabwe lacked this).

    Q2. Why is democracy considered the best form of government?
    Answer:

    • Ensures accountability of rulers.

    • Improves decision-making through consultation.

    • Peacefully resolves conflicts in diverse societies.

    • Enhances dignity of citizens.

    • Allows correction of mistakes.

    Q3. Explain any five arguments against democracy. Do you agree?
    Answer:

    1. Frequent changes cause instability.

    2. Decision-making is slow.

    3. Leaders may lack knowledge.

    4. Corruption due to elections.

    5. Ordinary people may not know best.
      While these are challenges, they can be improved within democracy. Other forms like dictatorship remove freedom and accountability, so democracy is still better.

    Q4. Distinguish between a democracy and dictatorship with examples.
    Answer:

    • Rulers: Elected by people in democracy (India), by force in dictatorship (Hitler’s Germany).

    • Elections: Free and fair in democracy, sham in dictatorship.

    • Rights: Citizens enjoy freedom in democracy; restricted in dictatorship.

    • Accountability: Governments answerable to people in democracy, not in dictatorship.

    Q5. “Democracy enhances the dignity of citizens.” Explain.
    Answer:
    In democracy, every citizen has equal status regardless of wealth or education. People are rulers of their own destiny, not subjects of a monarch. This equality enhances dignity. Even the poorest voter’s choice counts as much as the richest. Citizens participate in decision-making and can criticise or replace leaders, which gives them self-respect.

    MCQs

    1. The word democracy comes from Greek words meaning:
      (a) Rule by law (b) Rule by the people (c) Rule by king (d) Rule by priests
      Answer: (b)

    2. In Pakistan, power rested finally with:
      (a) Parliament (b) General Musharraf (c) People (d) Supreme Court
      Answer: (b)

    3. Elections in China are held every:
      (a) 3 years (b) 5 years (c) 10 years (d) 6 years
      Answer: (b)

    4. PRI dominated elections in which country till 2000?
      (a) Mexico (b) China (c) Nepal (d) Sri Lanka
      Answer: (a)

    5. Women got voting rights in Saudi Arabia only after:
      (a) 1950 (b) 2000 (c) 2015 (d) 1995
      Answer: (c)

    6. In Fiji, whose votes had more value?
      (a) Indian-Fijians (b) Indigenous Fijians (c) Women (d) None
      Answer: (b)

    7. Robert Mugabe ruled which country?
      (a) Zambia (b) Zimbabwe (c) South Africa (d) Nigeria
      Answer: (b)

    8. Which feature ensures equality in democracy?
      (a) Rule of law (b) Universal adult franchise (c) Federalism (d) Elections
      Answer: (b)

    9. In democracy, rulers must:
      (a) Be nominated by king (b) Be elected by people (c) Be chosen by army (d) None
      Answer: (b)

    10. Which body ensures constitutional limits on government?
      (a) Army (b) Judiciary (c) Police (d) Media
      Answer: (b)

    11. Democracy in India is:
      (a) Direct (b) Representative (c) Dictatorship (d) Monarchy
      Answer: (b)

    12. The famine in China (1958–61) showed failure of:
      (a) Dictatorship (b) Democracy (c) Army (d) Market
      Answer: (a)

    13. Which argument is NOT valid for democracy?
      (a) Provides dignity (b) Ensures accountability (c) More prosperous (d) Resolves conflicts
      Answer: (c)

    14. Who said democracy is “government of the people, by the people, for the people”?
      (a) Lincoln (b) Aristotle (c) Plato (d) Gandhi
      Answer: (a)

    15. In democracy, people are:
      (a) Subjects (b) Rulers themselves (c) Slaves (d) None
      Answer: (b)

    16. Which feature of democracy protects minorities?
      (a) Rule of law (b) Free elections (c) Equality of vote (d) Consultation & constitutional limits
      Answer: (d)

    17. Which is NOT an example of free and fair elections?
      (a) China’s one-party system
      (b) India’s multi-party elections
      (c) Mexico post-2000 elections
      (d) USA elections
      Answer: (a)

    18. Which feature distinguishes democracy from monarchy?
      (a) King rules by birth (b) Rulers elected by people (c) Both a & b (d) None
      Answer: (c)

    19. The principle “one person, one vote, one value” is linked to:
      (a) Equality (b) Liberty (c) Justice (d) Sovereignty
      Answer: (a)

    20. Democracy allows correction of:
      (a) Natural disasters (b) Its own mistakes (c) Poverty automatically (d) None
      Answer: (b)

    Fill in the Blanks

    1. Democracy means rule by the people.

    2. In Pakistan, General Musharraf held power through a coup.

    3. Elections in China allow only the Communist Party candidates.

    4. The PRI ruled Mexico continuously till 2000.

    5. Universal adult franchise means one person, one vote, one value.

    6. Robert Mugabe was the leader of Zimbabwe.

    7. Democracy ensures rule of law and citizens’ rights.

    8. The Judiciary protects fundamental rights.

    9. The famine in China killed nearly 3 crore people.

    10. Abraham Lincoln gave the famous definition of democracy.