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Tag: Types of Government

  • Chapter-9-From the Rulers to the Ruled: Types of Government, Class 7th, Social Science, NCERT

    NCERT Questions and Activities (with Answers)

    Q1. Write names of the various types of government that you have learnt in the chapter.
    Answer:

    • Democracy (Direct & Representative – Parliamentary and Presidential)

    • Monarchy (Absolute & Constitutional)

    • Theocracy

    • Dictatorship

    • Oligarchy

    Q2. Which type of Government does India have? And why is that called that type?
    Answer:
    India has a Parliamentary Democracy.

    • The people elect representatives through elections.

    • The Prime Minister and Council of Ministers are responsible to the Parliament.

    • India follows universal adult franchise and upholds equality, freedom, and justice.

    Q3. You read that an independent judiciary is present in all types of democracies. State any three reasons why you think it is important for the judiciary to be independent.
    Answer:

    1. To ensure that laws are applied equally to all citizens without bias.

    2. To protect the fundamental rights of people.

    3. To keep a check on the legislature and executive, so that power is not misused.

    Q4. Do you think democratic government is better than other forms of government? Why?
    Answer:
    Yes, democracy is better because:

    • People elect their representatives.

    • Everyone is treated equally and has rights like freedom of speech and equality.

    • The government is accountable to the people.
      Other forms of government often concentrate power in the hands of a few, leading to misuse.

    Q5. Match the practice with the type of government.

    • I. All citizens are treated equally before law → Democracy

    • II. The government refers to the religious leader for each and every decision it takes → Theocracy

    • III. After the queen’s death, her son became the new king → Monarchy

    • IV. The ruler is not bound to follow any Constitution. He makes all the decisions as per his choice → Dictatorship

    Q6. Below is a list of countries. Find out the types of government these countries have:

    1. Bhutan → Constitutional Monarchy

    2. Nepal → Federal Parliamentary Republic (Democracy)

    3. Bangladesh → Parliamentary Democracy

    4. South Africa → Parliamentary Republic (Democracy)

    5. Brazil → Presidential Democracy

    Q7. What are possible hurdles in a democracy in achieving its values and ideals? How can they be overcome?
    Answer:
    Hurdles: corruption, inequality, misuse of media, influence of money and power, weak judiciary, and lack of awareness among citizens.
    Solutions: stronger laws against corruption, awareness campaigns, active citizen participation, transparency in governance, and protecting the independence of institutions.

    Q8. Democracy is different from monarchy and dictatorship. Explain.
    Answer:

    • In democracy, people elect their rulers, enjoy equality, rights, and freedom.

    • In monarchy, the ruler’s power is hereditary and citizens have little say.

    • In dictatorship, one person or a small group holds complete power, and citizens have no rights.
      Thus, democracy is more people-friendly and just.

    Extra Short Answer Questions (2–3 sentences)

    1. Who gave the famous definition of democracy as “government of the people, by the people, for the people”?
      → Abraham Lincoln, former US President.

    2. What are the three main functions of government?
      → Legislative (making laws), Executive (implementing laws), Judicial (ensuring laws are followed).

    3. What is universal adult franchise?
      → The right of all adult citizens to vote in elections, without discrimination.

    4. Name two countries that follow presidential democracy.
      → USA and Brazil.

    5. What is oligarchy?
      → A form of government where a small, powerful group (rich or influential families) controls decision-making.

    6. Which country is an example of a theocracy today?
      → Iran is a modern example.

    7. What is a constitutional monarchy?
      → A monarchy where the king or queen is only the head of state with limited powers, and real power lies with elected representatives (e.g., UK).

    8. What is dictatorship? Give an example.
      → A government ruled by one person or group with absolute power. Example: Adolf Hitler in Germany.

    9. Which ancient Indian state is an example of early republic?
      → The Vajji (Licchavi) Mahajanapada.

    10. Why is an independent judiciary important in democracy?
      → It ensures fairness, equality before law, and protects citizens’ rights from misuse of power.

    Extra Long Answer Questions (5–6 sentences)

    Q1. Compare democracy, monarchy, and dictatorship.
    → Democracy is rule by the people through elected representatives. It values equality, rights, and accountability. Monarchy is rule by kings or queens, usually hereditary, with limited or absolute powers. Dictatorship is when one person or group rules with complete power, without elections or rights for citizens. Democracy is more just and fair, while monarchy and dictatorship often concentrate power.

    Q2. What are the key features of democracy?
    → Democracy is based on equality, freedom, and universal adult franchise. Citizens have the right to vote, speak, and follow their beliefs. It ensures accountability of the government to the people. Separation of powers (legislature, executive, judiciary) prevents misuse of power. Citizens’ rights are protected by law.

    Q3. Why does democracy matter in the modern world?
    → Democracy matters because it gives people a voice in governance. It protects human rights, ensures equality, and allows people to live freely. It prevents the concentration of power and promotes development for all. In contrast, other forms of government often lead to oppression, inequality, and lack of freedom. This is why most countries today prefer democracy.